Home

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Lights in the Library #books #libraries #writing #PNR


Lights in the Library

 

Mornings arrive with a certainty-

The librarians will always turn the lights on

inside

buildings built for everyone

Drop in and hide

from the seasons’ unreasonable temperatures

Hide from something more, if need be

Or just explore the shelves

There are answers

along with ideas

and magic and mysteries

And always

a place to be and to become

for everyone

who finds their way inside

 

Libraries have always been so much more than just a place with books to borrow. Libraries are safe places. They are places to let the imagination run free. Within the buildings full of books and helpful librarians, there are computers, connections to jobs, lifelines to help, opportunities for learning, and endless, wonderful possibilities. 

Check out the library scene in Bear’s Dream (Haven Forest Resort book 1)!

One of my favorite parts to write in the story was when AJ and Ellie escape captivity and seek sanctuary in a small library. The librarians risk their safety to hide Ellie and AJ, buying them more time to run from danger.

A snowstorm on New Year’s Eve brought bear shifters Ellie and AJ together but a secret threatens to tear them apart. When Ellie is in danger, will AJ find her in time?

What I’m working on now:

I’m currently working on book 2 in the series! Each story in my Haven Forest Resort series, as well as in my (now completed) Stranger Creatures series, will feature a different couple on their journey to happily ever after.  

 

If you’d like to follow me on social media for my latest book updates and recommendations, poems, contest info, and other fun stuff, you can find me at:

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Christina-Lynn-Lambert/e/B01MCYK0K7

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/christina-lynn-lambert

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinalynnlambert

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15900423.Christina_Lynn_Lambert

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinalynnlambert

Wordpress: https://christinalynnlambertwordpress.com

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/cllambauthor.bsky.social

 

Thursday, November 5, 2026

What's Your Choice?

 

This year marks my 25th anniversary as a published author (signed my first contract in December of 2001, released my first book the following Spring). I’ve been publicizing this with interviews and a lot of book signings. One question I’m often asked is “Why did you choose the genre you write?” For those who don’t know, my primary focus is contemporary mystery/thrillers, with some romance between the lead characters. I chose this genre because it’s what I like to read.

 

I originally became a fan of pulp fiction mysteries from watching private eye shows and classic film noirs on TV. I’d see something like “Double Indemnity,” “The Maltese Falcon” or “The Big Sleep,” then seek out the book at the library. If I liked it, I’d make my way through everything written by these authors. Came a point where I thought “I’d like to write one of these myself someday.” This was followed by the mental challenge “Either write the damn thing or stop talking about it!”

 

I conducted a survey with members of a local writer’s group, and asked them the genre question. The majority consensus was pretty much the same reason I had. Some responses included “Been dreaming about being a mermaid since I was a kid” (from a fantasy romance author), “I like challenges” (romantic mystery writer), and “After I read and re-read ‘The Mystery of Camp Laughing Water’” (mystery/suspense writer). Some people made an unusual confession—“It chose me!”         

 

Of all the genres on the market, romance seems to have sprouted the most branches. Popular sub-genres include fantasy, gothic, Christian, historical, paranormal, western, suspense (crime, mystery), and science fiction. Category romances still comprise the biggest portion of the market, and fit into specific niches that readers feel comfortable with (medical, billionaire, bodyguard, military, cowboy, etc.). They have a distinct standard style, involving similar characters, levels of sensuality, or types of conflict. People obviously like to stay in their comfort zone.   

    

The writing community is always quick to cash in on current trends or hot-button topics, which explains the rise of some subgenres. I think it’s fair to say that recent political rhetoric is responsible for focusing the spotlight on certain subjects, along with an increase in book banning. These actions have heightened the awareness of so-called “forbidden books” and topics, and increased the public’s interest in them. I remember that old advice—“If you want someone to try something, warn them to stay away from it.” LGBTQ has been a fast-growing example, especially with social media opening doors that were previously closed, along with more online discussion. 

 

A local indie bookstore I work with sells used and collectable books, along with new releases. It’s a comfortable old-style neighborhood store, and I love doing signings there. One of the attractions is that the owner actively supports and sells banned books. She makes no secret of it, and proudly displays them up front so people will see them when they walk in. So far, no one has boycotted the store or threatened her livelihood.     

 

One of my side hustles is editing books for a select clientele (translation: starving writers who need professional editing on a budget). Most of the books I edit lean heavily on romance, but the sub-genres are varied. Paranormal romance involving shape-shifters and spirits (including one series about a shaman who uses their powers to solve crimes), to vampire and futuristic romance are the themes of choice. I like what I read for the most part, even though they aren’t what I would choose for leisure reading. It’s taught me to appreciate the talents of others. I’m especially pleased that some of the books I’ve worked on became popular.  

 

The rise of e-readers made erotic romance one of the fastest-growing trends. What helped was anonymity—if it’s on your Kindle or phone, it’s easier to conceal what you’re reading when someone walks up on you. This practice coined the unfortunate term “mommy porn.” Novels that blended romance and erotica, characterized by strong sexual content and frank language suddenly became popular—as long as you didn’t tell anyone you liked reading “those books”!   

 

Author Tess Gerritsen has stated "We read romances because we want to feel good about love." To that end, never sacrifice your story to conform to the market, or trade originality to fit a trend. The best stories set new trends, and what matters is that YOU like your story. Experimentation and spreading your creative wings is a good thing, but ultimately, you should write what you want. Period. 

 

What’s your favorite genre, either reading or writing?

 

Tim Smith is an award-winning, bestselling author of mystery/thrillers and contemporary erotic romance. His novels featuring former CIA agent Nick Seven have garnered several awards and international critical praise. He is also a freelance writer, blogger, editor and photographer. His author site is Tim Smith, AllAuthor. 



 

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Real Writers Create Perfect Outlines and Other Myths

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4rINyIlUKg

I found the video inspiring and wanted to share it. 

​The video poses the following question to kick things off.

What kinds of writing goals have you made or been told you should make? 

Many people adhere to the belief that in order to be a proper writer, one must first create a very concise outline with bullet points and sub bullet points and bullet points for each of the sub bullet point. Said outline must read like a grand study of the Epic of Gilgamesh in its clarity and detail.

I don’t write like that.

For most of my life, I felt like something was wrong with me because I don’t write like that.

When I was younger, I was the kind of writer who doesn’t outline at all. I made a few loose notes here and there. Mostly I just sat down and started writing. At this point in my life, that method only works for projects like recovery writing. It doesn't work for fiction projects. Nevertheless, I'm still not a super concise outliner who takes a month to build an amazing epic outline. Doing that leads to analysis paralysis.

When it comes to writing fiction, I fall solidly into the plantser category most of the time. I make about 10,000 words' worth of notes. What I end up with is by no means an epic, beautiful outline. At this point in the process, I do go AI assisted. I feed my notes to Claude and say, “Claude, arrange my notes in a concise, easy to follow outline. “ For tasks like this, I appreciate AI assistance. I have many overarching criticisms of AI, but that’s an essay for another time.

The only place I have ever used the super-concise, precise outline format with the bullet points of bullet points to good advantage is when writing academic essays and research papers. I haven't written one of those in years. There are certain academic subjects I might like to cover at some point, but I don't know if I'll ever have time to. 

Precise outline, a few (or a lot of) notes, or no outline at all, write the way that works for you, not the way that someone else tells you you're supposed to.


See what I'm up to on my Start page


Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Happy November to you from January Bain!

 

Good Morning to you!

I hope this post finds you well and happy. How can it be November already? Time if moving along at a dizzying speed!

I spent all of October buried in writing another Western, A Legends of the High-Lonesome novel featuring Holt MacGregor.

He's a real man's man and intriguing to write. Soon, I'll be switching back to writing another post-apocalyptic thriller series: Gods Of Power: The Awakening. As long as I can find someone to read my work, I will be writing my stories! 

And yes, it does beat the real world when it comes to the news. I've often wondered why the news casters harp on all the negative intel in the world when so many good things happen every day as well? I'm a firm believer in balance and moderation in all things, though maybe I'm a bit hypercritical about this stance when it comes to writing, spending endless hours dreaming up and living within my stories!

In other news, I had a new book published this month. Race the Thunder, book 4 of the World Gone Dark series from Rough Edges Press. 


When I sat down to write Book 4, I wanted to push the Mackenzie clan beyond basic survival. Setting up a homestead is one thing—defending the people you love when the entire world comes hunting is another entirely.

The sky didn’t just go dark—it brought a storm that never stopped building.

In Race the Thunder, the illusion of safety shatters. Deep in the Appalachian mountains, the fragile sanctuary of Hardin Creek faces its most brutal test yet. As the outer world disintegrates into lawless chaos, survival is no longer just about hoarding rations or boarding up the windows. It’s about holding the line against ruthless factions who see their peaceful hollow as the ultimate prize.

When a violent clash leaves their perimeter compromised, Burgundy and the clan are forced into a relentless game of cat-and-mouse along the mountain ridges. With hostile scouts closing the net and a treacherous cross-country convoy battling through unforgiving terrain, every mile costs blood. Out here, mercy is a fatal mistake, and trust is scarcer than clean water.

The lightning has struck. Now comes the roar. The Mackenzies have proven they can survive the night, but when the wolves come in force, they’ll have to stand their ground and race the thunder.

Happy Day to you!

January Bain, Storyteller  


Saturday, October 31, 2026

Back to the Beginning - #BDSM #EroticRomance #Halloween

Jack O'Lantern

Lisabet Sarai

I love being assigned the 31st of the month at SNSD. That means I get to post on Halloween, on New Year’s Eve and on my own birthday (January 31st). Happy Halloween to all our readers! I hope you have a spooky, possibly sexy adventure planned for tonight.

The first edition of my first novel, Raw Silk, came out in 1999. I’ve come a long way since then. I’ve published stories in a wide range of genres, including sci fi, paranormal, steam punk, thriller, gay and lesbian. I’ve branched out, deliberately experimenting with different styles and content.

My early work, though, was deeply influenced by my personal experiences with power exchange (D/s or BDSM). During my life I’ve had only one D/s relationship, but it profoundly changed me. I wrote Raw Silk to capture some of the excitement and confusion that accompanied that love affair.

That book is not by any means the best I’ve written. However, many readers have commented on the authenticity of the emotions in that tale. That is, of course, because the subject matter was so personal.

What does this have to do with Halloween? While searching for something to share this All Hallows Eve, I came across a spicy bit of holiday flash fiction from those very early days when I still remembered being an eager slave. This is very old story. I’m sharing it here, hoping that you’ll take it in the spirit offered.

Note that this is definitely not safe for work!

 

Trick or Treat

To GCS

Rated X

"Which would you prefer, Sarah, the cane or the feather duster?"

"Is that a trick question?"

"Why do you ask? Don't you trust me?"

"Of course I do. But you do have a way of twisting things around in unexpected directions."

"I thought you liked surprises. In any case, as your Master it's my responsibility to add a certain - ambiguity - to our interactions. To keep you on your toes."

"These ridiculous spike heels do that well enough."

"If I hear any more complaints or excuses, Sarah, I will make you very sorry. And I don't mean something you'd enjoy like a spanking or nipple clamps."

"I..."

"Sarah! Just answer my question. Now."

"Well... I choose the cane."

"Really? Why is that? You're blushing, you know. Tell me why you prefer the cane."

"Well - um - I think it will hurt more. And that it will please you more, to see me enduring that pain."

"But I asked what you wanted. Not what you think I'd want."

"Mm..."

"What was that?"

"There's no difference, Master. What I want is to please you, to fulfill your every lust, to satify your desires before you are even aware of them."

"Silly, romantic girl. You sound like a novel."

"It's the truth. I can't help it."

"So - " (Swish!) "you want the cane, do you?"

"Yes, Master."

"Last time, you remember, you couldn't sit down for two days." (Swish!)

"I remember."

"Very well. Bend over and hold on to the edge of the table. Good." (Swish!)

"Ow -- oh! Oh!!"

"You're awfully slick, Sarah. The cane slides back and forth in your pussy as though it was greased."

"Uh...ooh..."

"Spread your legs a bit more. That's right. Now I can rub the bamboo right up against your clit."

"Oh, Master! Oh...!"

"I think that talking about the pain makes you hot. But what about the pain itself?"

"Uh...ooh...I don't know."

"We should do some experiments in that area, don't you think? Oh, there's the doorbell. Some urchins come to extort their candy from us, no doubt. Get up and answer it, Sarah."

"What? Like this?"

"Naked, in high heels, with a cane wedged in your crotch? Why not?"

"Please, the neighbors are already suspicious about us. All the screams and so on. If I expose myself to their kids, they're going to report us. These days, especially, anything involving children is especially dangerous."

"Hey, you'd probably like it in prison. All those rough, nasty guards... Come on, Sarah, I'm only teasing you. Here, throw this over your head. Then go answer the door."

"But..."

"I'll give you butt! Don't argue. I swear, for someone who claims to be my slave you give me a lot of lip."

"I'm sorry, Master. But I must look like Casper with an erection."

"You do, rather. Never mind. Go give the grubby little devils what they deserve, then get back here."

"Yes, Master."

...

"So, who was it?"

"Two Darth Vaders, one Power Ranger, one Harry Potter and a most convincing Elvira, Mistress of the Dark."

"Hmm, sounds appealing. Should have invited her in."

"Master... ow!"

"Your nipples are like marbles, little Sarah. And how's that cane doing? Walk around a bit for me. Very fetching. But I think you're having a bit too much fun. Let me have it."

"Ooh...ah! Are you going to beat me now?"

"Perhaps. Would you like that?"

"Whatever you'd like, Master."

"Hmm. Is that so? So many possibilities... Go back to the table and bend over again. Thighs wide. That's right. Now, reach back and pull open your cheeks. Yes, very nice. So sensitive and vulnerable. I really should cane you, Sarah. You deserve it, for your insolence and your questions. But..." (Zip!) "I'm just too indulgent to train you properly..."

"Oh...MASTER!"

...

"Master?"

"Yes?"

"Can I ask you a question?"

"You just did."

"The cane was delicious, a real treat. I was wondering what you planned to do if I had chosen the feather duster."

"Actually, I was going to break off the feathers and use the sharp quills to pierce the flesh around your nipples."

"No! Not really! You wouldn't do that! Would you?"

"You can never be sure, Sarah, can you? That's why you love me."

"Only one of the reasons, Master. One of many."

 

 
Looking for a Halloween read? This book reaches a climax at midnight on All Hallows Eve, as the Devil tries to claim a poor romance author's soul... Find out more at https://www.lisabetsarai.com/damnedifyoudobook.html


Wishing you a night full of treats!


Friday, October 30, 2026

Read Freedom's Hope by Steven A Coulter #MMRomance #SciFi #SpeculativeFictio

  

Freedom's Hope

Chronicles of Spartak Book 2

Key Words: 

SciFi, LGBTQ, Speculative Fiction, Sex Off Page, Fade to Black, Action, Love Story

Synopsis:

Rebel. Athlete. Lover. Slave.
A young man finds love in the midst of revolution.
Fighting to restore the America of legend, Spartak Jones becomes one. By 2116, the war between the ruling elites is now full frontal and the seventeen-year-old has become its celebrity warrior and icon for an America that used to be.
Kidnapped and taken as a trophy slave just a year ago, he remains his own man, willing to use his looks and other talents to survive and triumph. The liberal underground promotes his wholesome yet swashbuckling image to build support for democracy even while others plot for his destruction. Love may be his greatest weapon.
Is he a pawn or hero? How much evil is acceptable if you believe your cause is just?
From the Space Elevator, 22,000 miles above the earth, Spartak and Zinc McClain, scion of the nation’s richest family, launch an audacious scheme to thwart a religious war and a military coup.
-----
More in the Series


Book 1

The ruling elite see Spartak as a trophy; the people see him as their best hope. By the year 2115, twelve families control all wealth in America, the middle class is a myth, democracy a con game, and the Supreme Court has just legalized a new entertainment option for the bored elite. Spartak Jones is kidnapped and forced to become the first legal slave since the Civil War, a trophy birthday present for the eldest son of the richest family. Handsome, seductive, and athletic, he is not shy about using his talents to survive and protect those he loves.


When war erupts within the ruling class, he proves to be a lethal warrior, fearless, resourceful, and photogenic. His swashbuckling exploits awaken a long-dormant liberal underground hungry to restore democracy.

In a world both familiar and horribly twisted, Spartak becomes a symbol of hope, a flesh and blood icon for an America that used to be and might be again, if he can survive.

Dark, twisted, dystopian, uplifting, and romantic—The Chronicles of Spartak delivers a 22nd century LGBT action hero who will make you cheer.

A riveting tale with a powerful political undercurrent.




Who am I?

Steve writes speculative fiction. He explores issues of consequence embedded in fast-paced adventure, exotic settings, nasty bad guys, reluctant heroes, and the audacity of love. His work is enriched by his varied careers – soldier, teacher, journalist, state legislator, corporate executive, and library commissioner. He has a BA and MA in Journalism and was a Lambda Literary Fellow in 2008 and 2013, later spending two years on the Board. He lives in San Francisco with his husband, Greg. They favor bittersweet chocolate.

Stalk Me


Thursday, October 29, 2026

ROCK HER WORLD COWBOY by Lexi Post now available for Preorder

  Rock Her World Cowboy (Rocky Road Ranch:
Book 6)

by Lexi Post

is now available for preorder

releases Nov. 24th

Amazon | Amazon UK  

| Amazon AU | Amazon CA 

Since his rock-climbing accident three years ago, Rory Lester makes the most of every moment in life. Only a handful of his friends in the small town of Four Peaks truly understand where he’s coming from. So after appreciating every second of a passionate night with the newest cowgirl in town, he’s ready to learn more about her.

Victoria “Vic” Watkins is falling in love with the small town she moved to eight months ago—the ranch she works on, the friends she’s made, and especially her new home. However, falling in love with a local is on her “don’t even think about it” list. That means after her incredible one-night stand with Rory, she needs to make it clear it was just a one-time thing.

Despite her reticence, Vic discovers keeping Rory at a distance is not as easy as she thought, especially after discovering he’s her neighbor. Unfortunately for her, there’s actually a lot to like, but when their priorities clash, she refuses to budge. How can she love a man stuck in the present when she’s looking forward to the future? 


Don't miss any of the Rocky Road Ranch romances. Click HERE.

About Lexi:

Lexi Post is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of romance inspired by the classics. She spent years in higher education taking and teaching courses about the classical literature she loved. From Edgar Allan Poe's short story “The Masque of the Red Death” to Tolstoy’s War and Peace, she's read, studied, and taught wonderful classics.

But Lexi's first love is romance novels so she married her two first loves, romance and the classics. Whether it’s sizzling cowboys, dashing dukes, hot immortals, or hunks from out of this world, Lexi provides a sensuous experience with a “whole lotta story.”

Lexi is living her own happily ever after with her husband and her two cats in Florida. She makes her own ice cream every weekend, loves bright colors, and you’ll never see her without a hat.


Website

Lexi Post Updates

Lexi’s Legends

Facebook

Instagram

Amazon Author Page

BookBub

D2D

Goodreads

Instagram

Blog

Pinterest