How Hot do you Like your Scandal?
June 1, 2012
Shonda Rhimes is a television mega-house. After writing popular movie screenplays such as Introducing Dorothy Dandridge and Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, she turned to television, where she is the creator, head writer and executive producer of two successful shows for ABC: Grey’s Anatomy and Private Practice. She does it again with her new show, Scandal.
Everyone has a secret… and Olivia Pope has dedicated her life to protecting and defending the public images of the nation’s elite and keeping those secrets under wraps. Revered and feared at the same time, Olivia, a former communications director to the President of the United States, left the White House to open her own prominent crisis management firm. She is hoping to start a new chapter in her life—both professionally and personally—but she can’t seem to completely cut ties with her past. Slowly it becomes apparent that her dysfunctional staff, who specialize in fixing other people’s lives, can’t quite fix the ones closest at hand-their own.
Thank you, ABC.
The two leads, Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn have chemistry that I’ve rarely seen depicted on T.V. As a reader of romance, my stories are filled with it. People who fall in love after one glance. The pull of desire that overrules all reason. Feelings so intense you’ll suffer anything just to feel it one more time.
Still it never works in a visual medium. But these two… It’s hot, y’all.
Take a look at a couple of scenes. Don’t say I didn’t warn you! 
Enjoy.
Look for Season 2 of Scandal next year!
What new show did you love from this past TV season?
The T-Spot Welcomes Katherine Garbera!
May 30, 2012
Grab your beverage of choice (Mimosas for me, of course!), roll up to or flip open a screen and let some talented writers talk to you about their writing process.
This week: Katherine Garbera is in the spotlight!
Katherine Garbera is the USA Today best-selling author of more than 50 books. Readers have flocked to her Miami Nights and new Matchmakers, Inc. series. So let me get out of the way and cede the stage, stool and microphone to Lauren:
1. Have you always written stories?
I started making up stories when I was on the swim team at practice. Swimming up and down the pool for two hours every day left me a lot of time to think and for me that was when I first started making up stories. I really enjoyed it and thought it was an interesting hobby. When I was 20 a woman I was working with said to me why aren’t you a writer, after we’d been talking about stories and writing. And I said I didn’t know I could be, how silly is that? The idea was planted that I could be a writer.
I like to write Mon-Fri from 9-3. I will write on the weekends if I have to but that’s family time for me. I do email and social networking in the morning while my kids are eating breakfast and watching TV and then when I get home I start writing. I try to write three scenes a day.
I write-revise-write and then move on. I don’t know why I do it that way, its just the way that works for me.
I don’t think I get writer’s block. I have gotten stuck in a story and I always send it to Eve Gaddy and she tells me what the problem is. Not story wise but reader wise, i.e. its boring! I have a list of affirmations I keep next to my computer and I read them every day before I get started. The first one is why I think writer’s block hasn’t been a problem, it is: Writing is fun and easy for me. I believe that and feel it so writing is a natural part of my day.
Starting an idea is always lots of fun because you are sort of writing and seeing what will develop. Another part I love is the ending when I’m pulling all the threads together and weaving the conclusion.
8. Where were you when you got “The Call?”
I was at home. I’d taken the day off from work because my agent had left me a message saying that she had a voicemail from Silhouette with an offer for me. So I waited at home until they called. Then I called my husband, parents and grandparents. And we all went to dinner at my parents house that night to celebrate.
9. If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one thing you have since learned about the business of writing, what would you tell them (you)?
The thing I’d really like to tell my younger self is don’t eat a Quarter Pounder with Cheese every day for lunch when you were 21! But I would tell myself to let go of my fears that I’m not meant to be a writer. I would tell her that the stories she has to tell are worthwhile.
Wine is my favorite and I like something dry and white. I also like a Corona now and then and Guinness when we go to the pub.
Jayne Ann Krentz, Christine Feehan & Barbara O’Neal
I love Big Bang Theory and any cooking show Top Chef, Master Chef, Chopped… Oh and Once Upon A Time. Love fairy tales!
Hmm…I don’t know that I have one.
New York professional Gail Little goes from reserved to stunning in time for their first date. But when she meets Russell, she knows the matchmaker made a big mistake. The camera may see their instant chemistry, but will Gail allow the perpetual playboy to transform her into his very own plaything…forever?
This week’s listing of blog posts that gets Tracey’s Seal of Approval:
Heroic Wardrobe Decisions: More snarky cover image bitchery. I love it!
Purseblog’s Recap of Real Housewives of Orange County: She watches so we don’t have to. Seriously, I can’t take it anymore!
Moscato leading the move towards sweet wines: Article says most wine customers “talk dry but drink sweet.” Do you?
What did you think? Are you still watching any of the Real Housewives? Which is your favorite?
Have a wonderful Memorial Day!
The T-Spot Welcomes Lauren Clark!
May 23, 2012
Grab your beverage of choice (Mimosas for me, of course!), roll up to or flip open a screen and let some talented writers talk to you about their writing process.
This week: Lauren Clark is in the spotlight!
Lauren Clark writes contemporary novels set in the Deep South. Her stories are sprinkled with sunshine, suspense, and secrets. A former TV news anchor, Lauren adores flavored coffee, local book stores, and anywhere she can stick her toes in the sand. Her big loves are her family, paying it forward, and true-blue friends. So let me get out of the way and cede the stage, stool and microphone to Lauren:
1. Have you always written stories?
Not always, but I’ve always LOVED stories! I grew up reading everything I could and spending countless hours in the local library, as my parents were very strict with TV time (none in the summer!). My children (both boys) prefer that I tell them stories at night…mostly about dragons, ninjas, and samurai warriors
I had some interest from a few agents for Stay Tuned, but no offers for representation. Later, a small publisher approached me about taking on the novel, but they were so new that they didn’t have a marketing or distribution plan together. After discussing it with a friend of mine who is a writer and a lawyer, we decided it was best if I self-published.
I do my best work in the morning and usually have to leave the house to get any serious writing done. When I’m getting my first draft of a book down, I usually spend 2-4 hours at the local library in a study room. I have to shut off my cell phone, I don’t have access to the internet, and there’s no one ringing the front doorbell! No interruptions means I get twice as much work done. When I am writing my first draft or revising, I generally work five days a week. My kids complain if I do too much on the weekends!
Outline, which consists of at least a sentence or two for every chapter. Then, crappy first draft. Next, I have a few close friends and my mom read the manuscript. After that, I work with my editor/publicist on any trouble spots, talk through ideas, and then I tackle the revisions. The revisions generally take about two rounds.
Not so far. I panic about not having enough time to get through my list of story ‘ideas.’ I have a file on my laptop that I add to every so often when something strikes me as unusual or interesting.
I think it’s getting down that first draft, when everything is new and exciting and the possibilities seem endless! Even with an outline, characters can sometimes surprise you and the plot can twist and turn in unexpected ways.
8. If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one thing you have since learned about the
Start now! I wish I’d gone to school for my MFA (instead of my MA in journalism) and gotten serious about the business of writing novels much sooner. It takes a lot of tenacity–you have to WANT to get 85,000 words down–there are so many other exciting distractions, but no one can do the work for you!
Wine. I love Steele Wines’ Writer’s Block Syrah
Sophie Kinsella, Emily Giffin, Jodi Picoult
Love Hart of Dixie, The Big Bang Theory, Revenge, and Criminal Minds.
I do adore Daniel Craig … he was a great James Bond, but I thought he did a wonderful job as Mikael Blomkvist in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. He’s smart, sexy, and talented.
Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired.With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she’s offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage.
Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia’s story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage?
Get Dixie:
Dancing Naked in Dixie for Kindle
May is International Chick Lit Month! I know, I know: where’s the card from Hallmark? My friend, Tracie Banister organized the 2012 Chick Lit Author Blog Hop which ran May 14th -20th. Thirty-four wonderful writers donated their time, witty words and awesome prizes. Fun was had by all.
I do not write chick lit, but I am a supporter of the genre. It’s taken a beating lately, which is a shame. Women and men are different and the journeys we take don’t have to be “heroic.” We make many stops on the road to learning to love ourselves and society benefits from the adventure. If you have to ask how, call your mother.
We share the lessons we learn, so that others may learn. That’s not trivial, it’s uplifting. It’s enlightening.
It’s Chick Lit.
This week’s listing of blog posts from the Chick Lit Author Blog Hop that gets Tracey’s Seal of Approval:
Tracie Banister: Romance in Chick Lit
Dina Silver: If Bridget Jones had Sex with Christian Grey
Natalie Aaron & Marla Schwartz: Jane Austen’s Heroes
There were 31 other wonderful blog posts. You can find the list at any one of the links above. Check them out.
What do you love about Chick Lit? What’s your favorite book?
Emoting with “The Beek”
May 18, 2012
Have a great laugh courtesy of James Van Der Beek.
Enjoy your weekend.
The T-Spot Welcomes Brenda Jackson!-Rewind
May 16, 2012
Grab your beverage of choice (Mimosas for me, of course!), roll up to or flip open a screen and let some talented writers talk to you about their writing process.
We’re revisiting the interview I did with the fabulous Brenda Jackson. Ms. Jackson recieved some incredible news this week!
Warner Brothers partnered with her to release Truly Everlasting – The Movie in stores and to television! The DVD hit stores yesterday, including Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy and wherever DVDs are sold. An announcement is forthcoming as to when Truly Everlasting – The Movie will make its television debut and on which network(s). Ms. Jackson thanked her readers who’d already purchased the DVD. Warner Brothers interest in the movie was peaked due to the huge DVD sales for an independent film.
That’s worthy of another look, don’t you think?
R-E-W-I-N-D!
This week the line is out the door, around the corner and down the block: New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Brenda Jackson is in the spotlight!
Brenda is the award winning author of over 90 books, including her popular Westmoreland and Madaris family novels. She has received many awards, most recently the 2012 RWA Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award. With over 3 million books in print, Brenda’s fans span the globe and even join her on an annual reader’s cruise. It’s no wonder tonight is standing room only (SRO). So let me get out of the way and cede the stage, stool and microphone to Brenda:
1. Have you always written stories?
Yes, I began writing short, innocent love stories for my classmates when I was 14 years old.
I began writing for fun in the late 80s, and submitted my novel in early nineties, and my first book was published in 1995.
When I began writing, traditional book was the way to go. No one had heard of e-pub. As far as indie, I didn’t have the upfront money required.
Normally, I write everyday for at least 8 hours. I split the hours into groups of 4 hrs each and aim for 5 – 6 pages per group or 10 – 12 pages a day. Writing relaxes me so I tend to put in more than the 8 hours.
No writers’ block. I found I can get writers block when I try making my people do something they don’t want to. My stories are character-driven versus plot driven, so I am close to my characters.
Writing the scene where my hero and hero discovers they have fallen in love. I also love researching the setting of a story.
8. Where were you when you got “The Call?”
Not to look at things through rose colored glasses. In this business, know who your true friends are. Everyone who smiles and say they are truly happy for your success, really aren’t.
Normally, I do drink champagne at weddings on occasion.
Beverly Jenkins, Nora Roberts, Lori Foster, Stephanie Laurens
Recently, Brenda became a movie producer when one of her books, Truly Everlasting, was turned into a film. 
Hey Guys-
Sorry about the postings shortage last week. Virginia Romance Writer’s hosted our first multi-day conference in years and we had a wonderful time. But I had a lot to do when I got home. Everything is back to normal and postings will resume. Thanks for your patience. And now…
This week’s listing of blog posts that gets Tracey’s Seal of Approval:
The Seduction of Romance-Novel Design: Found this article courtesy of Smart Bitches, Trashy Books. Now you guys know who to contact about all the man-titty that’s taken over our covers!
The WANA Plan to Save Bookstores & Revive Publishing: Like Kristen says, “we are architects of change or artifacts of change.” Read it again. Deep.
Image Influence: A History of Celebrity Inspired Hair Horrors: A funny post by my friend, Tracie. This is a new website. Check it out!
And finally, can I totally geek out and say I LOVE JOSS WHEDON? There are a lot of us who have been his fans for years and it’s great that Hollywood– and everyone else who didn’t watch Firefly (ahem)– know what we know: he’s a genius. The Avengers has made $370 million domestic in two weeks!!! And he made Scarlett Johansson’s character bad-ass, unlike her turn in Iron Man 2.
Join the conversations & leave a comment.
I love reading good blogs. Which ones would you recommend? Please don’t list your own. Let’s spread the love!
All Game of Thrones, All of the Time
May 4, 2012
Season 2 of HBO’s Game of Thrones premiered to blockbuster ratings and has already earned a third season renewal. There’s been some great episodes and some not so great ones, but every week, millions tune in for the intrigue. I tune in for this:
Thrones received a lot of press lately for the excessive nudity in its second episode and SNL decided to weigh in on it:
Enjoy, have a great weekend and don’t forget to tune in to HBO, Sunday nights at 9 for all new episodes of Game of Thrones.
The T-Spot Welcomes Pamela Palmer!
May 2, 2012
Grab your beverage of choice (Mimosas for me, of course!), roll up to or flip open a screen and let some talented writers talk to you about their writing process.
This week: Pamela Palmer is in the spotlight!
Pamela Palmer is the New York Times Bestselling Author of the Feral Warriors series. When Pamela’s initial career goal of captaining starships didn’t pan out, she turned to engineering, satisfying her desire for adventure with books and daydreams until finally succumbing to the need to create worlds of her own. That need has led to twelve published novels and a novella. So let me get out of the way and cede the stage, stool and microphone to Pamela:
1. Have you always written stories?
No, not at all. I had no idea I wanted to be a writer until I was in my late twenties. But I’d always
been a reader and a daydreamer, spinning stories in my head.
Not until after my kids were born. I’d quit my day job (I was an engineer with IBM) to stay home with
the kids and I started writing then.
I’m traditionally published with Avon Books/Harper Collins. When I first started, indie wasn’t an
option and the e-pubs were very small. I wanted a large traditional publisher and waited until I broke
in. (Nine years after I finished my first book.) I’m still happy being traditionally published. I love
seeing my books in print and in the bookstores. I love doing book signings and being sent on book
tour—all things that are hard or impossible with e-pub or indie. And I adore my publisher. Avon is
such a wonderful house to write for.
I’m a full-time writer and usually work five or six days a week, six to eight hours a day unless I’m on
deadline. Then it’s 24/7…or feels like it.
to figure out the book than it does to write it. Once I know the story, I write it pretty quickly, 4-6
weeks for the first draft. Then I go back and flesh it out, clean it up, and polish. It sounds so easy,
doesn’t it? It’s not. It’s never that clean, but that’s always the goal.
I’m not sure I believe in writer’s block. If I’m having trouble writing it’s because I took a wrong turn
somewhere. That’s when I pull out my toolbox and start tinkering, figuring out where I went wrong
and what I need to do to fix it.
The plotting. The engineer’s brain enjoys the ‘building’ of the story.
8. Where were you when you got “The Call?”
I was at home that morning and ‘the Call’ completely confused me. I’d finaled in the Golden
Heart about two months before and one of my final round judges, a Harlequin Nocturne editor,
wanted to buy my entry, The Dark Gate, for their new Nocturne line (which had not yet come out). Of
course, the judges are told not to reveal that they’re judges, so she wouldn’t say how she had my
book. And I’d never even heard of Nocturne. So this editor I’d never submitted to called to give me a
contract for a line I’d never heard of. Most of that conversation was her trying to explain the Nocturne
line to me.
business of writing, what would you tell them (you)?
Probably the only thing I’d do is give her my handy list of productivity tools (things I’ve learned over
the years that work for me). Everything else had to come to me when I was ready for it. Those
productivity tools (in case you’re wondering): 1) write on a laptop (I need to be able to move), 2)listen
to music, instrumentals only, mostly New Age jazz and movie soundtracks, 3) download the Freedom
software ($10) which locks me out of the internet for the amount of time I specify (usually 60 mins at
a time), 4) break up the week into writing days (5 days a week) and non-writing days (2 days a week).
Use non-writing days for all the business of writing (blogs, interviews, website updates, etc.). On the
writing days…write.
It’s a toss-up between wine and beer. My current favorite wine: Sebastian Chardonnay. My current favorite beer: Land Shark
Larissa Ione, Sarah MacLean, Anna Campbell, Nalini Singh.
Fringe, Game of Thrones, Vampire Diaries, and Once Upon a Time. Also The Walking Dead and Spartacus. And I can’t wait for True Blood to start again!
I’m not sure I have a celebrity crush per se, though I adore actors in certain roles. Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn in Lord of the Rings; Russell Crowe in Gladiator. Ian Somerhalder is brilliant as Damon in Vampire Diaries. And I love both Alexander Skarsgård as Eric Northman and Joe Manganiello as Alcide in True Blood.
Quinn Lennox is searching for a missing friend when she stumbles into a dark otherworld that only she can see–and finds herself at the mercy of Arturo Mazza, a dangerously handsome vampire whose wicked kiss will save her, enslave her, bewitch her, and betray her. What Arturo can’t do is forget about her–any more than Quinn can control her own feelings for him. Neither one can let desire get in the way of their mission–his to save his people, hers to save herself. But there is no escape from desire in a city built for seduction, where passion flows hot and blood-red. Welcome to Vamp City…
