A Novel Life.... Shawna Hill's Blog

Attention Deficit vs Working/Writing Mom

2012-02-17T13:02:00.001-05:00

I submitted this article to WLC, but just incase it doesn't get accepted, I decided to publis it here myself as well.

Coming from a single mothers’ prospective, we have to simply wear all the pants, hats, shoes, and everything in between to take care of our business, right? Well, the key word here is simply…it’s just not as simply done as some of us portray it to be! As a matter of fact, it’s hard as heck to keep the smile on our faces and feet moving to the time clock on which we run. I have to admit women do have a knack for making the most complicated and tedious responsibilities seem flawlessly easy, sexy and attractive, but it does come with a huge price attached; sanity. Besides the full time job of raising kids, toss in online classes, full time work, a significant other (quite possibly for some women, we can add this to our kid count)…and oh, I’m an author by moonlight too! Tiring just to read isn’t it? I feel the same way. People ask me how do I find the time to do it all. Sometimes, I have to ask myself the same thing. The answer is, I don’t really know, I just do it.

So, just to give you an idea of any given day, let’s go ahead and break it down just in case my point isn’t clear. First and foremost, I’m mom. I happen to have a pre- teen daughter and a busy 5 year old son, meaning getting the kids up for school, making sure they are clean, giving the same speech in the morning about combing hair, brushing teeth, breakfast, vitamins, stop arguing, no fighting each other, sharing, etc. While in the meantime, getting myself ready for work, I have to make sure I look presentable and competently ready for business. Ok, next is getting them to school and day care then off to work. Dealing with full time work is exhausting and takes a huge part of the day, but a dire necessity, so complaining is not an option, just do it!

After hurting feet, mental strain dealing with work life, the fun is just now rushing to its peak! Online classes! Yes, this is my option, not forced on me, but a tool that is supposed to give me the added advantage of having a higher education. I already have a Bachelor’s Degree and have yet to see the benefits come to fruition. The jury is still out on whether obtaining my Masters will help or not. Right now the only thing it’s helping me do is go into more debt! But that is another topic for quite possibly another day. At this time in the day, my attention is starting to really waiver. The rest of the day consists of picking up the kids, homework, dinner, my significant other, and then… me. It’s about 10:30pm now, not leaving me any me time. My characters are talking to me now and I desperately want to create and bring their stories to life… again, its 10:30pm. Besides writing, marketing my books, socially working and maneuvering between numerous social networks, blogging, editing, re-writing, etc. takes a huge amount of effort and time. So what do I do? Sometimes, I get it all worked in along with my 3k words other times I get none in. After a busy day and night of maybe writing, tiredness and the lack of attention is really setting in and now, I’m past exhaustion, only to get up and repeat the same mantra the next day and the day after and the day after that. Got the picture?

Over saturated, exhausted and down -right mentally tired are words I toss around from time to time to describe how I feel. How much attention can one person give to everyone and everything at all times? Quite frankly, I can see how women can exhibit attention deficit personality without a proper diagnosis. I have found myself having wandering thoughts, lack of focus, and short temperedness, meaning it’s time to take a break and try to simplify life.

In today’s age, everything is fast, and people want everything now so simplifying is a feat in itself! The simple life and our perceived wanted life is an oxymoron to the average person. I’m not counting celebrities or people who live outside of what I just described above. I’m talking about the majority of women who do it all. There is really no simple. I do, however find some, no, a lot of relief or solace in the fictional worlds I create. I love that I have control over who does what and why, unlike real life where everything comes and I handle it in whatever order it drops on me. My attention needing vampires, yes, I said vampires (I don’t mean this in a negative way…really, I don’t, well, maybe a little) leave me little room to wind down. Yes, I have maxed out on giving my attention to everything and everyone, so I have learned to be more selective and when to speak up and say no! Saying no, I don’t have time, or no, find someone else to do it is okay to say. Or how about, not right now, another day? You’re never going to be fully relieved of your responsibilities, but you can minimize your need to be involved in everything! You may even feel guilty for saying no, but guess what, the work will still be present whether you say no or not…so try it, say no…you will feel a little relief, more in control, and able to think clearly! I personally commend all mothers, whether single or not, because more than likely you are still doing it all anyway! It’s a hard job being a woman despite what people think!

More books I've Discovered

2012-01-18T18:48:00.000-05:00

I ventured into Barnes and Noble today and was over excited about the number of books that I was grabbing left and right. Yes, I know I have a Nook, but the physical book is intoxicating too! Oh, and i did fail to mention that despite what some people think, book covers do have a way of selling the book! I love these covers. It's simple, but makes a point.

One series that I'm most interested is the Witch and Wizard series by James Patterson.. they are YA and look to be pretty awesome. I love the paranormal element....always had a fascination with witches and the craft.. never practiced nor learned anything of the sort, but always drawn to it for some reason.

I do have an affinity for crystals and stones (could it be tied to the witchery?? LOL.. not sure).. but as we all know crystals and stones are supposed to or rumored to have mystical powers....ran a whole city (Atlantis). Now I know that Atlantis is not supposed to be real, but people have been looking for ruins for ever with no results, but the belief is still strong and still there.

Ok, I have gotten off my subject, which was um.... Barnes and Noble and the series... I wanted to purchase the first installment, Witch and Wizard and found that it was back ordered. Seems its very popular... so I will download it. The second one in the series is The Gift... looks just as promising. I'm interested in where these novels go and cant wait to read them. I will give you my thoughts later. :)

Look What the Nook Drug In :)

2012-01-05T06:50:00.000-05:00

I went out and brought me the Nook Simple Touch about a week before Christmas for both me and my daughter. I thought it would be a good way to reel my daughter in and get her hooked on reading as much as I was when I was her age. She is starting to really enjoy being swept away in books...and I love that! So purchasing the nook seemed like a great idea.

I loved the simple touch. And it's just .... simple. Black and white, no color and only wifi to download books, newspapers, and magazine. No frills, but serves its purpose. Now, what I really wanted was the color nook, which is about $100 more. Besides the color, it does much more. It's almost like a mini tablet. Surf the net, watch Netflix, hulu, music, books, books, and more books... I just couldn't seem to justify spending the extra $100 since I have Internet at home, on my cell, Xbox, and have access to it all already. So, I didn't get it.

What I didn't count on was getting one as a gift for Xmas! I was SO excited! I love it! So, now I have two of them and went Netflix, Hulu, and book crazy! I have to say life with my Nook will never be the same....it will be better. It's my brand new toy that I just love to death! My daughter was a little salty because she still has the black and white, but oh well... when she gets a color one (and I probably will get her one so she can enjoy its awesomeness too!)...she will appreciate it, but she needs to read a few 100 books first so I can feel she got its worth!

Some of the books that I have read (downloaded so far) are pretty good....

I'm reading a book by Patrice Michelle... A Taste for Passion (Kendrian Vampires)... so far its pretty good..

I also read Mandy Roth's Winter Solstice.. I absolutely loved that one! Only problem I had was that it was too short! I wanted more. I recommend this one and her others...

Moonlight Becomes You, by Linda Winstead Jones.... so far I like this one too...its just a novelette.

And I downloaded a whole lot more, including some for my daughter and my son...Anyway, I thought I would share that with you. So... what are you guys reading?

New Year, Outlook and Goals

2012-01-03T06:51:00.000-05:00

2011 flew by really quickly for me and I'm sure a lot of you. I am always one to look to the future, but the future quickly becomes the present and very quickly.. the past. There were a lot of things that I had in mind that I wanted to accomplish, but I didn't reach my goal as I wanted :( But don't count me out just yet. I have some great things in the making, revised some of my plans and goals to make them more attainable and will reach them very soon! I'm excited to see what 2012 brings my way!

One of my biggest goals is to complete one of my new books that I am writing under a pen name...more to come on that one later! All I can say right now is that it is a paranormal novella series that I have been wanting to write for quite some time.

I have to use a pen name since its nothing like my current books and I don't want readers to be confused or upset with the new books that have paranormal themes, especially when they are not into paranormal. I am not releasing them until I have at least two of them done and plan to release them two at a time. My initial release time frame is this early Spring, but want to get them out much sooner if I can. Wish me luck!

As promised, but much later than I anticipated, The Ladies Club is still a work in progress and almost ready for the initial editing stage.

I know that I haven't been here in a while... but I plan to be more active again...starting today! I appreciate you tagging along and hanging with me all the while... :)

What's New?

2011-10-22T22:53:00.000-04:00

Wow! I cant believe that I have not posted in over a month! Time has really flown by. Most of my days are just quick blurs as I have been so busy writing, working and pulling together the Intimate Betrayals web series. This is my first time doing something like this and thus far it has been an awesome experience!

Here is the cast that has really supported my vision! They are 100% in tuned with me and want to see Intimate Betrayals succeed as much as I do. We actually begin our first day of shooting tomorrow! Im so excited and nervous at the same time!

Thought I would share the pics here with you.

I found this while digging thru some of my writings

2011-09-10T08:33:00.001-04:00

There was a time a while (actually many years ago) back that I used to write poetry just to either pass time away or rid myself of boredom. One titled Durable Serenity is one that I came across the other day.. so I thought I'd post it here... and maybe I will post one of my buried poems every other week... Actually, this particular one was inspired by the pic listed here... (and this pic has been an inspiration to a lot of my thoughts or writings, which is why you see it so much on my site...

Durable Serenity

His mind a steel trap,

His body to match

A force to behold,

Liquid bronze to mold

Calm strength underneath,

A soft pliable sheath

But a kind heart & soft expressions,

Leave the biggest Impressions

Intimate Betrayals Web Series... coming Fall 2011

2011-08-23T22:28:00.000-04:00

Good Evening,

I thought I would share one of my latest creations that I'm so excited to bring to life! This is something that has been tossed around between me and my partners in crime for a while... Even before the books were created, the dream of creating a production was in the back corners of our minds. It's funny, I never had the intention of writing this series as I have stated many times, but it seemed to take on a life of its own...and here we are now.

I am still working on The Ladies Club with Dark Whispers a far second work in progress...as writing is my first passion. Since the books have been received well, this was the next logical step for us to try to conquer. I love a challenge and this will be one that I welcome, full heartedly!

We predict and forsee shooting to begin this September and have high hopes to have it out by mid October. Wish me luck!

So if this series is something that you are interested in seeing, please stay tuned!

Fire Sale!

2011-08-09T00:00:00.003-04:00

Good Morning!
I am sure that you have heard the term fire sale before right? Well what I am doing is similar to it, but not exactly it. LOL! I want to break my own record in ebook sales and sale 200 copies of both of my ebooks, In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions each for .99 in the next 24 hours... starting now. Will I reach 200 copies? Who knows, but I would love to try or at least get as close as I can while at the same time give readers an enjoyable read!

If you haven't already grabbed your copies, now is the chance to do so and please spread the word! If you are interested, email me @ shawnarhill@gmail.com for the coupon codes!

Lazy Sunday and my Sunday Read

2011-08-07T20:14:00.000-04:00

Today has been a very very lazy day for me. I didn't get out of bed until 1pm...and I loved every moment of sleeping in. Since my kids are old enough (well my daughter is anyway) to fix their own food to eat, there was no rush to jump out of bed for anything. So I took full advantage of it.

So while on my way back home from vacationing in the Bahamas, we were on a long lay over in Chicago @ O'Hare Airport. We decided to stop in at the bookstore and grab some reads. I am kind of spoiled with buying ebooks, but the sight of all the books lined up brought back my fiendish need to BUY, BUY, BUY. So I did. There was a sale on mystery books.. buy one get the other either half off or free, I cant remember. I purchased a book by an author that is unknown to me but the blurb on his book sounded very interesting.

The book is called Caught, by Harlan Corben. Have you heard of this guy before? Here is a blurb from his site and some words from the author himself:

Available Now in US & UK

From the #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense comes a fast-paced, emotion-packed novel about guilt, grief, and our capacity to forgive.

17 year-old Haley McWaid is a good girl, the pride of her suburban New Jersey family, captain of the lacrosse team, headed off to college next year with all the hopes and dreams her doting parents can pin on her. Which is why, when her mother wakes one morning to find that Haley never came home the night before, and three months quickly pass without word from the girl, the community assumes the worst.

Wendy Tynes is a reporter on a mission, to identify and bring down sexual predators via elaborate—and nationally televised—sting operations. Working with local police on her news program Caught in the Act, Wendy and her team have publicly shamed dozens of men by the time she encounters her latest target. Dan Mercer is a social worker known as a friend to troubled teens, but his story soon becomes more complicated than Wendy could have imagined.

In a novel that challenges as much as it thrills, filled with the astonishing tension and unseen suburban machinations that have become Coben’s trademark, Caught tells the story of a missing girl, the community stunned by her loss, the predator who may have taken her, and the reporter who suddenly realizes she can’t trust her own instincts about this case—or the motives of the people around her.

I know that most of you are romance readers, but this book so far is very good!

My Bonding Vacation

2011-08-02T21:57:00.000-04:00

So, I just returned home from an awesome vacation with my sister and her husband, my brother in law, and one of my best friends. We had a great time, created some cool life long lasting happy memories, and also created stronger lifetime bonds! Believe it or not, this is my first time vacationing with my sister and her husband, despite the many many years that she'd poked and prodded me to go with them to their vacation places. I just never seemed to have the time. After all the fun we had, it now will become a priority to get the family together on a yearly basis for some great times!

To get a better understanding, me and my sister were not raised together and had lost contact for about 20 years (not by our choice), and just over the last 10 years or so, we've been getting to re-know each other again, so this was a long time in the making and long overdue. Bringing her family and mine together is a must...and we have managed to do a pretty good job melding back into one happy family..her children, husband, my kids, our brother (was raised with me), and my significant other....good times! Almost seems like we were never apart.

So anyway, we started out flying out of Columbus to Ft. Lauderdale. We both were kind of nervous and she refused to sit by the window.. so I was the big sister and took the heat LOL! I sat by the window.. and I enjoyed the view...

View of the hills, leaving Ohio

skyview above Ohio

landing in Ft. Lauderdale

After we landed we all headed to the hotel for the night, filled with excitement that was sure to come the next day. Heading to Palm Beach was cool.. of course we got lost a couple of times LOL! But we got there in time to port and board the ship...

The Celebration

Then off to cruise on the Celebration... destination... Freeport, Bahamas!

beautiful home, beachfront property, Palm Beach

great view of Palm Beach

setting sail...leaving Palm Beach

While cruising, I'm sure you know that the food is limitless...so you know we sampled everything! Drank like fish, gambled in the casino, danced, viewed a male review WOOT WOOT! No, they were just alright...we have seen better, but it was great entertainment anyway. We even drank enough to gather courage to participate in karaoke LOL!! it was fun but we sounded absolutely terrible!! LOL!! But hey, we will never see those people again so who cared, right! Besides they sounded just as terrible. My brother in law did a great job singing The Commodores hit, Brick House...had the audience participating...but he is already an entertainer so it was no sweat off his nose seeing as though he has his own band. Me and my sister, Michelle, completely different story. I think we gulped down at least 3 double shots mixed in our drinks..you know to loosen up. I have no problem reading from my book or doing open mic poetry...singing.. i needed drinks LOL!

To make a longer sharing story even longer, we finally hit the shores of Freeport...let the shopping begin! The island was beautiful! The beach was breath taking and the resort was gorgeous!

Mechelle, Michelle, and me

me and my buddy, Mechelle @ Agave Restaurant

Agave Restaurant on the Island

my best friend, Mechelle and my sister, Michelle

beautiful resort

the resort

on the beach

looking up at a palm tree

I love palm trees..If I could have one here I would

Anyway this trip was awesome and a great bonding experience... and I am already looking to book another one for next year.

Not Enough Hours in the Day!

2011-07-26T22:10:00.003-04:00

I know it has been a minute since I posted on my blog. I have been busy working and .... life. But I shouldn't let that get in my way of writing and sharing. I love to share my experiences and hear about your as well. Speaking of sharing, I have been researching and reviewing a lot of webisodes on the Internet lately and have come across some really great ones that I feel are worth mentioning.

Ok, so one that I have found is called Celeste Bright, which is written by Sonya Steele. It's an awesome drama/suspense. I cannot wait for the next episodes to come out.. Check it out.

There are 10 episodes and she actually has each episode deconstructed on her site. You can read and see the episodes on her page here. I absolutely love this!

Another one for you 24 or Keifer Sutherland fans! I ran across one by him called The Confession. In one word, AWESOME! For some reason, the first chapter is not on youtube, but you can view all of them on FB here. I was able to get the trailer however.

If you are looking for some comedy.. I found it... Hilarious!! It's by Issa Rae...called The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl. According to the site, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl follows the title character and friends as she navigates through life, love and awkward situations. This one here is episode 5 but i believe there is 6 now... funny stuff (depending on your sense of humor)

New Project!

2011-07-13T20:18:00.000-04:00

Intimate Betrayals Web Series Now that my interesting blog tour has ended, I have had time to dedicate towards the next book in my Intimate Betrayals series! The Ladies Club is currently in process with the hopes of finishing it really really soon; then off for the editing process!

Also, I wanted to tell you some other great news! If you remember, I was asking your input on the interest in a web series...well, that is a project that I have been working on too! I am currently in the works of bringing Intimate Betrayals web series to life! I am very excited! Right now I am trying to raise funds to help me cover the costs of production, equipment (both sound and cameras), lighting, etc.... I just recently launched a project on kickstarter.com If you are interested in helping me out, I'd appreciate it! Of course, there are things in it for you as well!

My Kickstarter Project!

4th of July Special!!

2011-07-04T00:00:00.023-04:00

For those of you that have been interested in reading where it all began.. In Between Lies, for the 4th of July, I'm offering you a free copy! In return, I'd like for you to post a review on any of the sites such as Amazon.com, BN.com (barnes and noble), smashwords.com, or even here...just leave a comment! If you really enjoy it, please pass the word to a friend that you think may like it as well!

Happy reading!

click here to grab your copy today! use code XC34H for In Between Lies. This coupon is good thru 7/5/11 so hurry!

Picture of Beauty and Full of Heart

2011-07-03T13:17:00.001-04:00

I know this has nothing to do with reading, art, writing, or expression...but I just wanted to talk about my love of horses...I practically grew up around horses and developed a love for them. At one point I wanted to buy one...not to race, but to just have. I think they are beautiful animals that are full of rich personalities and strong hearts! Though I knew I couldn't afford to keep one; they take a lot of time, money and energy to keep them healthy and right...they can really eat, but they have to to sustain their weight and energy, I still contemplated getting one.

I just finished watching Secretariat. It was an awesome movie!

You know that great race horse and thoroughbred legend, whose record breaking time of 2:24 (1 mile and 1/2 in distance, I believe it was )...in the Belmont Stakes Race in 1973 hasn't been touched...and probably wont be anytime soon. The Belmont was the third leg of the Triple Crown Series of races...won by 31 lengths! If you don't know times or lengths....let's just say the horse blazed the track and all behind were wayyyy behind! This horse was AMAZING! I found myself really into this movie and wanting to see more of the horse than the actors LOL!!! His speed and heart was untouchable.

Another all time great is the New Zealand born Phar Lap! He was just as amazing as well. He dominated the Australian racing circuit. During the 20's Great Depression times, this horse uplifted many peoples hearts! He died in 1932, as the third highest stake winner in the world!

Both of these horses were great animals. But most of all what I loved about them and all animals is that they have HEART! They are strong and persevere against odds that seem impossible. There is nothing impossible and there is nothing that you cannot accomplish....just takes time, effort and energy on your part. That is what I have always known and was told growing up...and still believe. This is how I feel about my books and my writing. I know that it is hard work behind the scenes and will do what it takes to succeed. I'm putting my whole heart into this and know that one day (hopefully soon) that it will pay off. God put these amazing creatures here to show us how this is done. They do what they were put here to do... run! I am here here to write...as authors and human beings, we have to know, feel, and believe undoubtedly in what we do...Just look and think about the greats...all we have to do is take and follow their queue.

The End of the Road

2011-07-02T23:26:00.002-04:00

So, tomorrow (7/3/11) ... it's boiled down to the last day of the Intimate Betrayals Book Blog Tour and I have to say that it has been an experience. Please be sure to stop by my last stop @ Book Lovers Hideaway.

I want to thank the hosts that extended their help and knowledge (as they know it was my first time organizing such a tour)...thanks so much for your help! I had the chance to meet people that I otherwise maybe would not have met through this tour and that was great. I love d the opportunity that was given to me to not only introduce myself, but my colorful characters as well. Hopefully you followed the tour and got a chance to learn more about them through the character interviews.

Hopefully, if another tour is done with my next book, it will be as successful or even more successful that this one.

Ebook Winner!

2011-07-02T22:45:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Daniela! Thanks for participating! I hope that you enjoy! Your info to claim the books has been sent!

Chat and Giveaway...Intimate Betrayals Blog Tour

2011-06-27T20:58:00.001-04:00

The question that I am posing is this: When it comes to strong male characters, what is your definition of the ultimate Alpha Male? Everyone has a weakness, so what would his weakness be?

Just post your answer/comment. One winner will be chosen to win both hardcopys of my books (US only) and one set of ebooks (international).

Good luck and Im interested in your thoughts.

Come Chat with Me .. Intimate Betrayals Book Tour Chat!

2011-06-27T00:50:00.002-04:00

So far, this tour has been fun! I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of great people and look forward to meeting even more. I've had great hosts and giveaways, had fun creating posts that I hoped were interesting..and there is still more to come. Since this tour, Ive had the opportunity to do character interviews. I love those! They give me a chance to flesh out the characters even more and give you a better understanding of who they are and why they do what they do.

If you haven't had a chance to encounter my fav characters, read my books, or even the reviews, please stop by tomorrow night @ 9pm EST to get acquainted with them.. and me. I would love to talk to you and answer any questions, address your topics, etc. The floor is yours and it's your chance to get inside my head! Let's talk.

As an added bonus, there is a chance to win one hardcopy of each book (US residents only) for one commentor for stopping by and leaving a comment to a proposed topic of the nights conversation. Ebooks will be available for international residents as well. The topic/question will be announced tomorrow night.. see you then.

Another Musical Inspiration That I Use

2011-06-25T01:39:00.005-04:00

In case you didn't know, I love jazz music. Mostly smooth jazz. But growing up with my grandmother, I was introduced to a large variety of sounds of music. She was a connoisseur of music, full of culture....and I loved that once I grew up a little more. To be exposed to other cultures, thoughts, rituals, sounds, ideas is a great way of expanding yourself beyond your reality. This song by 3rd Force has been one that I listen to from time to time. There are only particular songs on this CD that I like. This one is titled Echoes of A Dream.

When I write to it, I can envision a hot sex scene...and it really helps me to loosen up with a glass of wine. Just listen to it.. it has sort of an animalistic sound or quality to it. If you let yourself go with it and really feel it, you can see it! If you read my book, Intimate Illusions, this is the song that would have been playing when Naomi was introduced to The Ladies Club lifestyle at the Grand Hotel Party she attended (in the beginning of the book).

Anyway...take a listen. Pull out your headphones, hit play, lay back and close your eyes, listen... and tell me what you think... can you feel it too?

Ok, here is another one.. not jazz.. but some diversity (neosoul) I thought I would throw your way. Im sure that most of you have never heard of her before. It's by Amel Larrieux, titled Gills and Tails... very talented young lady...not of the popular culture, but quality at its best!... real music..no bumping and grinding, etc.. very nice!

Spring Into Summer Blog Hop Giveaway Winner

2011-06-24T06:46:00.011-04:00

Hello All,

Sorry, I am late announcing the winner! Anyway the winner is....thruthehaze!

Congrats! I havent yet figured out how to add actual numbers to the comments section (if anyone knows, please email me) so I just counted down to posting #22.

Also, I am still playing around with therandom generator..never used it before now.. soI wasnt able to show.. but I promise that #22 is what was chosen. Hopefully by the time i run another contest, I will have figured it out. In the meantime....

throuthehaze said...I would watch it. Once a month is a long period in between though...once a week would be better

I follow you via GFC (Throuthehaze)
throuthehaze at gmail dot com

June 19, 2011 3:22 PM

Intimate Betrayals Blog Tour- How a Diva is Made

2011-06-22T07:10:00.001-04:00

If you have been following this blog tour, then you may some questions about one of the main characters, namely Naomi Saunders, and want to know more about her. This post gives a little more indepth info about this fiery character and gives a little more insight into her world and how she thinks.

What is a Diva you ask? Well, according to Urban Dictionary, a diva can be one of the following:

a.) A female version of a hustler.

b.) A bitchy woman that must have her way exactly, or no way at all. Selfish, spoiled and overly dramatic.

c.) A woman that is perceived as a bitch, or self- absorbed, which in some cases they are. A diva is a woman who has self -confidence, self -respect, and hella swagger. She knows who she is and exactly where she is going. Her style and attitude is on point even when she is not trying.

Ok, I think you’ve got the picture now. Let me introduce you to Naomi. All of those characteristics mentioned above are all wrapped into one person. The question now becomes what made her that way?

We all don’t come out and proclaim ourselves to be diva’s or even attain our desires to be diva’s… from the start anyway, that is. In Naomi’s case, that is exactly what she set her sights on and obtained.

Coming from meager beginnings, Naomi was not the ideal model of a child molded from perfect, privileged life. Being the product of an absent father and drug abusing mother that had multiple partners at a time, it’s a wonder she really kept her sanity…or did she? To a certain extent, she did. She made her mind up that she was going to have the exact opposite in her life that her mother showed her. College, a man, a great job….all that went down the tubes as she got older and realized that her life was not turning out the way she expected. Living on the south side of Chicago amongst hustlers, thieves, and crack heads was not exactly showing her the way.

Her plump body attracted no one except for the hideous men her mother brought home. So fighting was inevitable to keep her cookies intact. Exit left stage.

College years at Illinois State was just the beginnings of her diva-hood. Delving into acting classes and drama was an outlet for her…one that she found enjoyable. So much so that she began to envision herself as her roles…literally. Nabbing a great guy helped her self -esteem as well…although her plumpness was an obstacle, she was able to keep her hold on men, using her fast talking and eagerness to please. Who wouldn’t want a person that catered to any and every beck and call? She found that in Kevin Styles. He taught her things that she’d only read about, imagined or dreamed. He was her life, her everything.

Tasting the pleasures that he brought to her, bolstering her esteem and confidence, Kevin created something in her that she’d longed to have and didn’t realize that the developed traits she’d acquired would stick with her and follow him throughout. Devoting herself to being the best at all she could, to obtain the life that she wanted and yearned for; had tasted once to have it taken away, no matter what the cost was to get it is what Naomi set out to do… thus a hella Diva was born and let loose on the world.

Now that you have a little more indepth knowledge of Naomi's diva-ness... grab a copy of the book and see for yourself how she brings her role to life...only in Naomi style.

**Be sure to enter the giveaways through out the blog tour to win you free copies and check back here as well for possible other swag**

Intimate Betrayals Book Blog Tour Kickoff!

2011-06-18T09:59:00.003-04:00

Please join me @ Shameless Romance Reviews for my kickoff to the Intimate Betrayals Blog Tour tomorrow, June 19th! The tour will run through July 3rd. There will be giveaways throughout the tour, author interviews, character interviews and a chance to chat with me live right here! I would love to connect with you all at some point and share my experiences and hear about yours!

Look forward to meeting you and hope to see you soon!

Spring Into Summer Blog Hop!

2011-06-16T23:00:00.034-04:00

Welcome to the Spring Into Summer Blog Hop! This giveaway/hop is hosted by Coffee and Romance and Release Notes. This is only my second hop that I have participated in and I'm excited to be a part of it! This should be fun and interesting!

Ok, so here is what I’m giving away. You have the opportunity to win both copies of both of my ebooks, In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions and a $10 gift card from Amazon.com. (You can see reviews and excerpts on the corresponding links to the left.)

To win all you have to do is answer the question below, be a follower of my blog (A Novel Life…Shawna Hill’s Blog), and leave a comment (a general answer to the question or whatever else you want to say) and be sure to include your email if it’s not included in your profile.

Question #1: Would you consider watching a short 10 minute monthly video series spin off based on a book?

This giveaway will run from 12:00AM Friday, June 17 @ midnight through 11:59 PM Tuesday, June 21st and is open to international readers, so all can enter! The winner will be chosen via random.org and will be announced on Wednesday, June 22nd. Good Luck!

Be sure to hop over to the other blogs for more giveaways! Enjoy!

Two Reasons Why I Work So Hard

2011-06-12T02:24:00.000-04:00

I came across some pictures on my FB page today. Here are pics of my two children. They are the two most important people in my life! They are the reason why I do what I do. I try to instill so much into them and know that what I tell them, only half of it they will listen to and retain. I hope that isn't true, but is most likely since they are still so young and innocent.

I try to see things from their eyes, feel from their little hearts and listen with their censored ears. I find myself staring at these little people in awe and just wonder what goes through their minds at any given moment. I can remember a time when I was as young as they are, thinking how great life is, what I wanted to be when I grow up, and having no cares whatsoever! Thoughts such as what color shirt I was going to wear, what color crayons I was going to use to "color an decorate" the walls LOL!! The days seemed so long and lazy.. nothing like today; fast paced and always in a hurry, no time for anything anymore except work, cook, and sleep (if that). They truly don't know that right now they have it made; the life! I want them to enjoy every minute of it and I want to enjoy it with them because like I said in an earlier post, time stands still for no one.

Anyway, I guess I'm finished reminiscing and reliving my thoughts as a child, but I do plan to stay a child at heart and strive to see the beauty and innocence in the world, no matter how much I have been subjected to jaded thoughts and actions. It's hard for me to because as they say, ignorance is bliss, that rings true.

Featured Author in Write ON!

2011-06-11T13:32:00.012-04:00

Hi All,
Just wanted to do a quick post about a feature spot that I am very appreciative of. A great author friend of mine has featured me on her page today! Write ON!, created by Kimberly Ranee Hicks, features aspiring and unknown African American indie authors. Her passion is to share the knowledge, network, and possibly make some great things happen! I was thrilled to find that my info had been passed to her and was happy that she reached out to me for my information, as I love to network ans share all the same. There is enough room for us all.. so spread the word and check out her page. She is truly a talented sista!

So to show her some love, I am doing the returned favor! Check out Kimberly Ranee Hicks! Author/Poet at Write ON!, as well as bring some love to her book, Silent Knight, that she has set in the 70's! According to her, the 70's was "good times" and according to her, "I find myself wishing I was back there because I just don't like the direction our world is in now."

Intimate Betrayals Blog Tour/Giveaway

2011-06-07T10:46:00.002-04:00

I will be at Shameless Romance Reviews June 19th, talking about her Intimate Betrayals tour and giving you an opportunity to own both of my releases "In Between Lies" and "Intimate Illusions"! Plus a $30 or $15 gift card to amazon!

Here is how it works:
1. There will be 2 winners. First picked will receive both books and $30 gift card. Second picked will receive both ebooks and $15 gift card. You have until July 3rd to comment, winner announced July 4th!

2. Most be a follower of Shameless and A Novel Life...Shawna Hill's Blog

3. Leave a comment on both blog spots

Open to US and International!

I see that a couple of people have already entered! So head on over to Shameless and enter!
Good luck!

I Am Number Four

2011-05-31T15:05:00.001-04:00

If you could have supernatural powers, what would you choose to have? I posed this question to my boyfriend and got quite an earful. He is a Heros and Marvel comics fan...big time. His list was not short, but not too long either, but he did put quite a bit of thought into which super powers he would love to have. Invincibility, super strength, and telekinesis were his top three, he named so many that I can't remember what all he said now. :)

My powers would be 1.) Telekinesis 2.) Mind Reading and 3.) Teleportation (no longer have to drive anywhere, just snap my fingers and BAM! I'm there.)

Have you seen I Am Number Four yet? I just watched it today. I decided to watch it because of the paranormal features it has. It's about a boy who is one of nine people from another planet, living here on Earth. His kind is being killed off, one by one, in order. He, of course has supernatural powers that he as to learn to control. He develops feelings for a girl, which goes to show that love truly is a universal, all consuming, and mind altering emotion. Having a human experience in an inhuman body, he chooses to stop running from the beings that are killing his kind off. Three of his people have died, thus the title of the movie, he is number 4. Without giving away too much of the story, check out the trailer... you may find that you want to watch it. (I watched it on Zune through my Xbox 360).

I give this movie a definite 5/5 stars!

Intimate Betrayals Blog Tour Stops/Video

2011-05-30T00:15:00.003-04:00

Hi All,

Check out my brand new trailer for the tour! I had a blast creating it! I hope you enjoy! (There will most likely be more during the tour too! I love creating them). I'm very excited to be doing a blog tour and want to especially thank all of my hosts and others that have eagerly participated and helped me put this whole thing together. I could not have gotten through it all without your expertise!

So the following stops are below:

6/19 - Shameless Romance Reviews
6/22 - Passion Reads
6/23 - Getting Naughty Between the Stacks
6/24 - Passion Reads
6/25 - Mello & June, It's A Book Thang!
6/26 - Literary Marie's Precision Reviews
6/27 - A Novel Life...Shawna Hill's Blog - Chat @ 9:00 EST
6/28 - Literary Marie's Precision Reviews
6/29 - Black Diamonds Book Reviews
6/30 - Write to Make a Living
7/1 - Good Choice Reads
7/1 - Write to Make a Living
7/2 - Sinfully Tasty Reads
7/3 - Book Lovers Hideaway

Please stop by! There will be giveaways (ebook and hard copies), gift cards, etc.

For more up to date information, click here..

Another Awesome Review for Intimate Illusions..extended version!

2011-05-27T14:41:00.001-04:00

From Ms. Tipstress

My Thoughts: Naomi, Naomi, Naomi…. or should I say Mystique.. Um, Um, Um…. Shawna had done it again. With this second novel fresh right after the first… Who couldn’t put this down.. Im still waiting for more. Shawna has this way of her writing, makes you feel like your right there in all the scenes. You could cry with the characters and laugh when they laugh..
This one was far better then the first… Everything was pulled right into place. (Well as right as it can be). Sometimes sequels and scorned lovers gets old.. but this one brings it to the new. I was so shocked with some of the things that happened.. (Gosh I wish I could say it)

With everything that Kevin and Savannah has gone through anyone could guess what wold happen next… Hm well that is for you to find out. Can love conquer it all?? In my world, Hell No.. not one bit whatsoever. But that sexy Naomi, sometimes she can be so so … demanding. She is the type of chick that gets what she wants, when she wants it. (with a huge evil smile on my face) She reminds me so much of.. you guessed it. ME! She will stop at nothing.. and I mean nothing!

I could relate to all the characters and their situations many times over in Shawna’s Erotic Thriller.. and a thriller it is. There were times I was speaking out loud ready to fight the next person that walked into my reading office.. I just had to find out what happened. Scene after Scene had me dieing for more..
This one is heart wreching, thriller packed, keeps you guessing and on your toes.. and you will never ever look at a revengeful lover the same again.

Oh, the things that people do. Is it all worth it? and never forget to “Watch your back”
Hands down 5 chocolate strawberries…. I hope there is another sequel??

Intimate Betrayals Book Blog Tour!

2011-05-26T17:00:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

I am so excited to announce that I will have my first ever Book Blog Tour. It will run from June 19th through July 3rd. I have some really cool blog stops and want to thank them for participating and allowing me to take up their space for a moment. There will be some great prizes, giveaways, etc. so please be sure to stop back for the tour stops, dates, and info to follow along.

Ebook Winner!

2011-05-24T22:01:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Orsayor Simmons, the winner of both copies of In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions... Even though he wasnt able to post his comments here (for some reason, the comments section wasn't working), he hit me up on FB and left left his comment there... Thanks for showing interest and taking that extra step to communicate with me. Much appreciated!

Please send me our email address so I can tell you how to claim both books.

Thanks!

1000 Words A Day Habit

2011-05-23T13:13:00.000-04:00

Ok, so you may or may not know that I am working on the third installment of the "Naomi Series". I call it this right now because I didn't intend on making this a trilogy..and it may be even more than that. I know that there were will be some spin offs from some characters from both books. For example, for those of you that have read my books, Jazzy will have her own story as well as Lenora (Savannah's sister) since people have expressed an interest in their stories as well. Shaylynn may have her own as well.

You know it takes 21 days to create a habit.. so my goal is to create my writing habit to write at least 1K words per day. Even if it isn't something that will be included in my books.. just write..

Other habits that I am trying to create and adhere to (or already adhere to):

Workout at least 4 days a week... check
Drink at least 6 glasses of water a day .... half a check :)
Do something everyday, at least one thing to market my books .... check
Since I am not a regular blogger, try to do an entry at least 3 times a week.... well still working on that one :)
Tweet on twitter... I'm not a real tweeter, so I am working on that one too!
Be an excellent mom to my kids...check

Anyway, I am trying to really commit to at least 1K words a day at the minimum....anyone want to join me for some accountability? Afterwards, we can break out the virtual cheese, crackers, and wine to celebrate our competed works.

Getting Naughty Between the Stacks: Guest Post by Shawna Hill and Giveaway

2011-05-22T09:43:00.001-04:00

Getting Naughty Between the Stacks: Guest Post by Shawna Hill and Giveaway: "The Dangers of Love There was a time when I would sit around gabbing off with my girlfriends about you guessed it! Men! We would kick back, ..."

Be sure to hop on over and check out this great blog! I'm sure you will find something of interest. Also, be sure to leave a comment on my guest post that enters you in a drawing to win free copies of both In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions!

See ya there!

Friends with Benefits, the Benefits of Friends

2011-05-19T14:50:00.000-04:00

Crossing that line of just being friends to friends with benefits is a tricky thing. Is it beneficial to both parties? Maybe, if they both agree. But even if they both agree on this type of arrangement, there is always one that is going to get hurt or get more than they bargained for.

The gray area that it is, is undefinable and yet still just as much there as your hand is attached to your wrist. So you both agree that you can remain friends. Once this line is crossed, more likely than not, one will develop deeper feelings and want more. What if the other doesn't want more? Can you stand to see him/her go out and date others, knowing that eventually it may get deep...thus moving your friendship to the back burner?

Can you really say that you could stand by and watch and listen to him/her talk about their budding friendships, knowing that sex is probably involved.. and if not, it will be sooner or later...unless you speak up and voice your concerns or opinions. But wait... you two are just friends with benefits. No strings attached, no commitments...Isn't that what you agreed to? Yes, and now you are regretting it. So what do you do?

In Between Lies examines this type of relationship and more, bringing you drama with every turn. After many hours of talking with people, this book is the result of those conversations, ideas, and imaginations.

Sunday Special

2011-05-15T13:32:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you but Sunday is a workday for me (at work now) so it's a Monday instead of Sunday. So to get me through my blah first day of the work week feeling, I like to have something to have something to look forward to...like take a longer than normal lunch.. LOL... just kidding. But serioulsy, I love treats and today I'm offering a treat to everyone!

You can get ebook copies of both In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions for only $.99ea.. good through the end of this month!

Go to my profile on smashwords here and use coupon codes:

In Between Lies: NS78B
Intimate Illusions: GR89Z

That's it! Enjoy!

Review for In Between Lies

2011-05-15T07:51:00.000-04:00

Another shout out to a great reviewer! Ms. Tiptress of PassionReads.com had some great things to say about In Between Lies! Thanks so much for yor support!

Actually, I want to thank all that have reviewed, are in the process or reviewing, and the ones that I haven't yet reached out to, for reviewing my books and helping me spread the word about them! You guys are PRICELESS!

Check out Ms. Tiptess take on In Between Lies on her good reads page! Her review is also posted on my blog here under the Reviews section.

A Great Review for In Between Lies

2011-05-15T07:35:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to drop in a note about a great review that I just received from Literary Marie's blog! She was so kind to review both books and has included In Between Lies in her Sunday Series meme. So, be sure to check out her site and participate in her meme this week and also catch the review for the sequel, Intimate Illusions, next week at Marie's Literary Blog!Thanks to Marie for taking the time out to review them both.

Here is what she had to say about In Between Lies:

This is the debut novel to a drama-filled, erotic romance series. Author Shawna Hill's writing style is easy to follow. Despite my sensitive eye to mechanical errors in the text, I was still lost in the realistic story line. In Between Lies is not your typical romance. The scenes are just as hot as the cover portrays. Twists in the plot, fatal attraction moments, and a jaw-dropping cliffhanger clearly separates it from the rest in its genre. Thank goodness I had the sequel readily available to continue the story.

Check back here next Sunday for the review of the sequel. And a huge thank you to the author, Shawna Hill, for reaching out to me. Otherwise, I may not have discovered this good, steamy series.

Title: In Between Lies
Author: Shawna Hill
Published: June 2009
Pages: 113
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥

Quenching the Sweet Tooth w/Chocolate!

2011-05-10T10:31:00.001-04:00

Sneak Peek of Dark Whispers- coming TBA

2011-05-08T14:12:00.001-04:00

Here's another sneak peek at a WIP (work in progress) ... for Dark Whispers

Sweat poured profusely from her forehead as she clenched her chest in agony. Sharp pains stabbed at her stomach causing her to thrash back and forth in her sweat soaked bed. Void of a distinct form, a dark, silhouetted image appeared and flashed in front of her before she was able to clearly focus on his face. A face that she somehow instinctively knew was male. He had haunted her in the past few months. The pace of these recurring visions seemed to pick up, throughout the weeks and it plagued her more often than not…at least twice every other week.

Mya Jackson darted to an upright position in her bed, snatching herself from the nightmarish dream, but not before she got a glimpse of the distraught woman. She looked to be about twenty five. Beautiful, but very pale complexion, and fire red loosely, curled hair. She also appeared to be dressed in what looked like a stripper’s outfit…garter and all. Not able to hear her, she saw her mouth moving, forming words. She was holding her stomach as if to try to keep her insides from flowing out. Mya saw the agony in her face and knew that her voice was laced with fear before she slumped over and took her last breath. Then the horrid vision faded just as fast as it had appeared.

Now, unable to calm her trembling nerves, she cursed the strange gift of vision that she had acquired. She never fully developed it, nor had an inkling of how to use it. Although she’d experienced its strange sensations numerous times throughout her life, she still had yet to understand it or use it to her advantage. The gift was left almost completely untouched.

As far back as she could remember, her mother always stressed that she wanted her to have a normal life without the disturbing visions. She did nothing to help her understand them, just completely ignored it. When she had visions, they were easily dismissed as if they didn’t exist, leaving Mya feeling helpless and winding up not wanting it herself. Maggie Jackson, her favorite aunt, was the outcast of the family, was the only one that really wanted to try to make Mya understand how special she really was to have it. Against her sister’s wishes, she’d secretly advise Mya of her power and remind her of what good it can bring about, if used correctly. So here she was left with this under used gift, to either nurture or continue to ignore its presence. She sat in the middle and chose to do nothing…that is until now.

It hadn’t taken her long to realize that her dreams were coinciding with the strange happenings of late, and the killings that had taken place just recently. On a couple of occasions, she could swear the faces of the victims in her dreams were the same ones that she reported on as well. It was an eerie feeling that crept through her whenever the pictures were thrown across her desk, leaving her to wonder if they were really dreams and if she was hallucinating it all.

It was now after midnight she noticed, so she decided to listen to the radio and catch her best friend, Candace Stone, for the Dark Whispers broadcast.

“Welcome to Dark Whispers…This is Candy and you are live on the air on the one and only station where you can be you….the place you call to free your mind, speak about your inner most inhibitions, your fantasies, and your heart.” Candace Stone flipped her headphone and mouthpiece around to fit her head more snugly and continued, “It’s now the close of the midnight hour and I want to know what’s on your mind…So, Joe is it?” she questioned, “What’s on your mind at this hour?”

“I just really wanted to say that you are doing a good job here, Candace. I listen to you every night.”

“Thanks, Joe. Is that what you really wanted to say? Or are you being a little shy?” she asked.

“…Um, no… I, uh… I uh,” his voice grew deep with courage and mischief at the same time. “I just cheated on my wife and I actually don’t feel bad about it!”

“How do you feel, Joe?” Candace replied, not in the least bit shocked at his revelation. She’d been on the air as the host of Dark Whispers long enough now that not too much of anything shocked her.

“I feel exhilarated…alive… whole again.”

“Why did you cheat on your wife, Joe? Is she cheating on you?”

“I don’t care if she is. As a matter of fact, I hope she is because I sure am,” he remarked. “I want her to have as much satisfaction as I am.”

“What if she is listening right now, Joe. What would you want her to know? What would you say to her?”

“Um, something like…Sorry babe, but I got another piece somewhere else. She don’t talk back, she don’t ask questions, and she says that I actually please her and she definitely pleases me…and that is a whole lot more than I can say for you.”

“Like I say to Joe and all my other listeners out there… Free your mind and live your life…Good luck Joe in your little adventures. I wish the best for you.”

Candace flipped the switch and disconnected the line. “That was the last call… I want you all to have a good night, take care, be safe and be happy…Until tomorrow, good night.”

Candace slipped out of her headset, placing it in the holder right beside her and reached for the phone. She’d been ignoring the menacing red light that indicated she had a voicemail for the past week. It was her personal line to the station and only select friends had the number, except for the person that kept calling and breathing heavily into the phone and then hanging up. No message was ever left, just a complete deafening silence or ragged breathing. The calls had been coming at a steady rate though, at least three times a week at random times while she was on the air. Since that particular phone did not have a caller ID display, she had no idea who it was, nor did she care to find out.

The only thing at that moment that she cared about was getting out of the small, downtown radio station. The thought of her slipping into her cozy, warm, and inviting brand new condo she called home was her driving force. Newly single and free, she’d purchased her condo in the exclusive Rolling Acre Hills area that was located just east of downtown in a small and tightly knit community. Rolling Acre Hills was Columbus, Ohio’s best kept secret. It was her haven, and she thoroughly enjoyed it. Being the last to leave, she turned out the lights and headed for her car.

Candace slipped into the hot, bubbling Jacuzzi that she’d just recently had installed. The warmth enveloped her as she sank in deeper, enjoying its effervescent feel, and sighed in relief. Soft jazz filled the candle lit air giving it just the ambiance she was looking for to wind down her long evening. Her hair, pulled up into a tight bun above her head, revealed a perfect oval shaped golden brown face.

She reveled in the fact that she had finally succeeded at getting her own place, now on her own. Her not so long ago divorce had left her penniless and she knew she had what it took to make a new life for herself, and she set out to do it. She was pretty much forced to quit school because her divorce took every dime she had. In little than less than a year she’d found a niche for herself and forged her own way into broadcast radio.

It originally started out as a little call-in show where people could ask their questions to the small panel of professionals that she’d gathered. The professionals ranged from doctors and nurses, accountants, psychiatrists, and even parapsychologists. It so happened that the ratings didn’t shoot up until she got the great idea. Why not let people free their minds anonymously? Thus Dark Whispers was created and she hadn’t looked back since.

Dark Whispers was an instant success. Her listening base grew exponentially as her topics became more and more bold. She gave the audience what they wanted to hear, and it was all about the ratings that kept her in the spotlight. Her listening audience saw to it that her ratings stayed on top. Although she was seemingly adored, there were quite a few that didn’t like her, and complained about her topics, questioning her morality and decency. Where was her conscious? How could she allow people to call in and say the things they said? Candace didn’t mind, however, though she knew she had morals and great character. It was all about the show. Or was it?

She raised her dripping body from the tub and headed for bed. The full moon shone through her blinds as the cool air chilled her still damp skin. She slipped on her silk camisole top, then bottoms. She parted her sheets and quickly jumped in and relaxed; comforted by the full moons gaze upon her shoulder.

Clanging sounds invaded her peaceful sleep. She turned over, shaking away the intrusive sounds, knowing that she was just dreaming. Candace pulled the covers up further and covered her head to block out the sounds. Suddenly, she sat up, realizing that she was not dreaming and knew that someone was in her house.

Candace tip toed down the stairs, nervous and not knowing what or who would be right around the corner. She held her breath as she turned. A figure was bent over her small desk in her spare bedroom that she’d turned into a study. The figure turned to her as her motion made her noticeable, shining a bright flashlight in her face.

“What are you doing here?! How did you get in here?” Candace screamed.

Sneak Peek of The Ladies Club... coming July '11

2011-05-07T19:35:00.003-04:00

He wrapped his arms tightly around her waist and brought her even closer than she’d imagined he would. He wasn’t still mad? She wondered. Had he finally accepted that she was the mother of his child? His lips lightly caressed her neck. Falling into him even more, she sighed softly then inhaled and closed her eyes.

“I wanted so badly to be there with you when you had our son”, Kevin whispered, his voice like smooth silk.

“Don’t worry about it, baby. That was five years ago, you are here now. It’s all behind us. We can move on from here.” She broke the grasp he had on her waist and pulled him towards the bed. Seems the more she pulled him towards the bed, the further he really was. Her head spun and the room got smaller. His warm, chiseled body was now a blurry dark form in the doorway, threatening to move away even further. “Wait, baby, where are you going?” she asked. “Come back! What about me? What about our son? You can’t leave us! You can’t leave me again!” she yelled, terrified that this time he would not be coming back.

Naomi Saunders lazily turned over in her bed to meet the morning sun that shown through her horizontal blinds. Shaking her head, remembering remnants of her recurring dream, the abandoned wound resurfaced, as it always had before. But now, not abandoned, she would always have a piece of him. She had a five year old son to prove it. She glanced at her clock and had yet again overslept.

If she was to get a legitimate job and quit The Ladies Club, the late night on call hours would have to stop. The fact that she was paid an outrageous amount of money to cater to men’s needs and was highly requested didn’t help matters at all. Now partly taking on clients and responsibilities along with Lady Dane, Naomi had accumulated a nest egg of money and was well off. Why quit a job like that and get a normal hum drum job when you could have it all? Truth was she loved the game and using her body to get what she wanted just as much as the men loved using it. Most of the time, all that was required was her company, but on occasion, she was asked to do more, but always had a workaround besides the actual sexual act. That is where her negotiating skills and tact came into play. That is also why Lady Dane had approached her, seeing she had the “gift” of persuasion, and offered a partnership in her seedy business as a Co-Madame.

Turning to look over her shoulder, Jace Lane, her now high profile, attorney sometimes boyfriend, slept peacefully. Jace wanted more from the relationship. But most of all he wanted to be with his son. Not that his opinion weighed heavily on her or her actions, she’d agreed to slow her nocturnal activities, promising that her outings were purely entertainment and not sexual at all. Jace didn’t like the fact that she was still “one of the girls” because he’d wanted her to stop a long time ago. Plus now that she had his child, it was the suitable thing to do.

***

Smoke circled his head as he inhaled one last draw from a half smoked cigarette. Kevin Styles sat in his small office. It was a huge difference from the spacious office space that he’d had six years ago. Of course, his situation had changed a lot in that time, from bad to worse; as if there was no alternative.

He was cramped in his tiny office space, but thankful he had finally landed a halfway decent job after his fall from grace with WMMT, as the famed newscaster. The drab, dark brown walls had a way of draining his spirit, pulling him further and further away from any light that managed to shine in from his tiny office window. Finding a decent job was a daunting task, as Kevin moved from place to place, trying to make his ends meet. Wanting to stay in his field of profession, he’d applied at practically every radio and television station, only to find that he’d been black-listed from them all. A small, third rate cable station was his last interview that he’d gone on as a last ditch effort to land a job before he resorted to a career of unfavorable consequences. Although he considered himself an upstanding citizen, he was from Chicago’s Southside and had connections to things that he’d turned away from many years ago and preferred to not look back.

His face, sunk in as a result of his long hours that he’d put in at the station. His eyes had developed dark circles, which were signs of weariness, and his attitude was just as bleak to match. Although he tried to remain upbeat and face the fact that he brought on all his misery himself, he was still upset at how his life was ruined…all by one woman, and in turn lost the one woman and child he loved at the same time. Replaying the horrific wedding day in his mind, Kevin’s stomach lurched at the thought of seeing his image on the huge screen before everyone there. There was nothing he would have loved more than to strangle the life from Naomi’s vindictive body; if he could have just gotten a hold of her that was precisely what he would have done. She’d put the last nail in his coffin and sealed it shut.

If only he’d not went to that stupid bachelor party that Giovanni, his partner and best friend, set up for him…none of this would have happened. He placed his hands over his face and wiped it as if he was wiping away a film of residue that was out of place.

Hope you enjoyed! More to come soon!

Music as Inspiration

2011-05-03T23:37:00.003-04:00

When it comes to writing, especially when it comes to steamy scenes, or any scene for that matter, I like to listen to music that sets that particular tone. It helps to visualize what is happening at that moment. And if you have read either of my books, I mention a couple of songs in each of them and the characters react to the music as well. Music is a very powerful tool for envisioning. I guess it could be considered the same as day dreaming because that is exactly what I end up doing....just consciously and writing. I can see whole scenes, colors, feel feelings, etc. with music and I'm sure you can too.

This song, Stolen Moment, by Alisha Keys is one of my favorites. I thought I'd share this with you. The lyrics are really nice...and it's perfect for writing to.I do all the time.

Here is another of my favs... Musiq Soulchild's So Beautiful...enjoy!

Coming Very Soon... The Ladies Club

2011-05-01T20:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday!

I hope that everyone had a great weekend, because we are coming to a close. Actually, I work on Sunday, so my weekend is cut short anyway.

I thought that I would share my "tentative" book cover for the follow up to the much anticipated third installment of the "Drama Series". I call this the generic name of the drama series because I don't have a name for a series that I had no intention of writing. Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled that people are absolutely loving In Between Lies and Intimate Illusions. And if people are loving what they are reading and I'm having a blast writing about my characters, then onward we go and I will continue to bring them to you. So here is the cover. It's posted on my Face Book page as well.

If you've had the opportunity to read the drama filled books, then you know they have drawn a crowd that can't seem to get enough of ...you guessed it, Naomi Saunders. And I can't lie, she speaks to me all the time about her desires, dreams, loves, lusts, and what she can't seem to have, most of all...Kevin Styles. The one that got away! She stays into something and is a regular walking soap opera all in one. Well, rest assured she is at it again in The Ladies Club.

I am also working on a paranormal titled Dark Whispers as well. This is the cover for that one (tentative cover).. still needs some finishing touches, but it definitely is inspiring to look at, I must say. Enough to get your juices flowing... LOL!!

I will post excerpts of them both shortly and give story descriptions. I hope to be completely finished with them both by the end of June or maybe mid July, but no later. For now, enjoy!

Black Diamond's Book Reviews: Book Review - Intimate Illusions by Shawna Hill

2011-04-30T12:43:00.000-04:00

Black Diamond's Book Reviews: Book Review - Intimate Illusions by Shawna Hill

Free Reads/Giveaway- Repost & Extension

2011-04-29T13:40:00.002-04:00

It has been brought to my attention that many people have been having issues leaving comments on the site. I believe I have corrected the problem.. As a result I'm reposting the giveaway information and extending the deadline to enter... sorry about the confusion and thanks for your patience and letting me know! :)

Free Reads/Giveaway

Hi All,

You all have a chance to win a free ebook of your choice, (currently, you only have 2 choices, LOL!!) in your preferred format of In Between Lies or Intimate Illusions. All you have to do is answer one of the questions/leave a comment about the following (and follow me if you'd like, I'd love to have you with me!) :

Do you require all of your romance reads to end in the "happily ever realm"? Why or why not?
What are your favorite characteristics in your alpha male characters?
The typical romance novels consists of couples that remain faithful to each other...is that a requirement that they remain faithful throughout the book?

Leave a comment/link back to your page, please. There will be five winners, your choice of either book, picked randomly. I will be running this giveaway for the next three weeks...ending 5/24/11...so hurry!

Please let me know if you have issues...enjoy!

Black Diamond's Book Reviews: Book Review - In Between Lies by Shawna Hill

2011-04-28T01:30:00.000-04:00

Black Diamond's Book Reviews: Book Review - In Between Lies by Shawna Hill: " Book Details Title: In Between Lies Author: Shawna Hill Publisher: Self-Published Release Date: June 24, 2009 Source: Sent to me ..."

Random Day Events

2011-04-25T01:25:00.000-04:00

Happy belated Easter!

I just finished some homework, that I have to say is late by at least 50 minutes. But hey, it got completed. I'm sure I will get a decent amount of points for it even though it was late. I got off of work today, knowing it was due by midnight tonight...so what did I do when I got home? Absolutely nothing! Actually, I almost forgot it was due until I looked down at my books. Shame on me. How am I supposed to set a good example for my kids and tell them to get your homework done as soon as you get home, if I dont even do it? Its called do as I say as not as I do. LOL!!

I played COD (Call of Duty, for those of you that don't know what is, is a shooter game) on my Xbox 360 with my significant other. I suck at it as he reminds all me all the time, but I still like to play no matter how many times I get shot up! I guess you can call it quality time. He is really into his gaming....serious stuff for guys, I see. You wouldn't believe what you hear come out of their mouths! I listen to everything they say. Its amazing what you hear when a bunch of men gather together. Ladies, don't believe it when people say that men don't talk and gossip like we do...because they do. But its called male bonding...yeah, whatever, right? :)

My kids watched The karate Kid, you know the new one with Will Smith's kid? So now they think they know karate LOL!!

I made some tasty Nacho Dip...great fast dish to make and filling. The kids love it! So my evening consisted of COD, Nacho Dip, Karate Kids...and oh, homework.

So, I have the next two days off and I'm so excited to be home and just do.....nothing! I do however want to do a blog tour and am looking into getting that kicked off.

Indie eBooks: In Between Lies by Shawna Hill

2011-04-22T11:14:00.000-04:00

Indie eBooks: In Between Lies by Shawna Hill: "Fresh from a too recent split from her cheating fiancé, Savannah Summers is decidedly wary of getting involved with another man. Instead she..."

The Balancing Act

2011-04-19T15:57:00.000-04:00

As an author, mom, employee, and student, I wear many hats. The hat I want to talk about right now is just about the author side of me. Ok, so I have this idea, turns to a synopsis/outline, and with a bit more thought, a finished, unedited book. My baby. LOL!! Now what? Editing and the wonderful world of POD, that's what. SO the book is printed, after toiling away at editing (and I recommend getting a professional to do this since its almost impossible to catch your own mistakes), and getting the perfect cover. Who knows about the book? How do you get the word out? Where do you start? There is a lot of preparation that needs to take place even before the book is completed, I've found. There is also a ton of work after it too! Maybe for those that are interested, I will name a few things that I have found along my own way, that can make the transition smoother when it comes to finishing and marketing your books. That is a whole other discussion.

So, I told you in my profile that I am in pursuit of my Masters in Marketing and Communications, right? Can I just say that I am just absolutely loving my classes!! Never in my life had I thought I'd hear myself say that! There is sooo much information that I am learning and its sometimes overwhelming. There is literally speaking so much that can be done to get your products out there and in front of people...especially with the social media scenes such as this, that its almost impossible to not network and be "found" by someone.

One thing that I have found, even before taking classes, is that marketing your books is and can be exhausting. At the same time, it can be rewarding. So the question of the day is how do you divide your time accordingly when you are self published? Since we/I am self-published as well as business minded, I feel that I have the best of both worlds. I enjoy creating my books and also enjoy marketing them, networking, talking to everyone that will listen and selling myself and my books to no end! I know that a lot of writers want nothing to do with the business side and pretty much want to leave as much as they can with the publicists and agents, leaving them with more opportunity to write. I feel and understand that, but I'm kinda a control freak when it comes to my stuff, so I don't think if the opportunity ever comes along, that I would pass all of the other aspects of my future in someones hands completely.

So balance is the key! What do you do to maintain balance?

Follow Me Friday

2011-04-15T00:57:00.002-04:00

Hi all. This is new to me, but probably not to my fellow authors or bloggers. This is Follow Me Friday, great way to meet bloggers, authors (I'm sure they are mixed in here too), and readers...also a great place to meet new friends that have the same amount of passion for reading as I do...or more!

To get to know each other better, the question this week, posted by Parajunkie (Parajunkie.com), is a great way to start and get the dialogue rolling.

This weeks question:
Q. Do you have anyone that you can discuss books with IRL? Tell us about him/her.

My answer: The person I discuss books with is, believe it or not, my significant other. The funny thing is is that he doesn't read the same type of books, but loves the paranormal activities that I tell him about in each one that I read. His imagination is great and wild at the same time and he is a great person to bounce ideas off of and give me great ideas as well. He is my biggest supporter and fan! (no matter what i read or write). Outside of him, I have a good friend that is a co-worker that has just gotten her feet wet in PNR (who swore up and down that she wasn't going to like PNR books) and she is loving every minute of every one she gets her hands on. So I can say that I not only have a good friend to talk to about books, but a converted one as well!

If this is your first time stopping by my blog, I'd love for you to comment and follow me, as I will do the same. Happy Friday!

My Motivation...

2011-04-14T17:38:00.001-04:00

Perfection, isnt it? If I could just escape to a place such as this, can you imagine how much writing would get done? My mind would just be able drift to all the impossible locations, dimensions, and times that I cannot physically travel to.

So in order to spark some creative juices and get some motivation going (especially on my long tired days) I grab travel destination magazines, modern home buyer magazines that have these spectacular homes and imagine that I am already there.

So what do you do to get your juices flowing?

What I'm Reading

2011-04-06T12:10:00.002-04:00

Happy Wednesday! I think. I hate hump day and I really dislike dreary, rainy hump days.. feels like the humps are that much higher and no longer humps.. they are now hills! But I have the cure for that... grab a great book! And I know of just the prefect books to grab...

I am currently reading this awesome series by Jeaniene Frost, the Night Huntress Books ...and I'm going to have to say that if I ever run into a vampire such as the likes of Bones!! He definitely can take a bite! LOL!! I love books that just take me away! If you get the chance to read and want a great read.. definitely put her on your list! I am in the second book now and have 3 more to go in this series. I have a few friends reading/will be reading this series and they are hooked, just as I was. I can't say enough or get enough about Mrs. Frost and her books!

I find myself supposed to be doing homework (yes, I am in school attempting to get my Masters in Marketing/Communications), but end up reading and neglecting my schoolwork.. that's a great indication of how consuming her books are.

My want/desire is to produce the same quality, all consuming books as well... Which brings me to my next subject. I am in the process of writing my third installment of the In Between Lies series as well as a new paranornal. The diffrence between the two are staggering.. and it takes my brains a good minute to separate them since I have been so wrapped up in the PNR romances. I have to make sure that my characters don't all of a sudden get an ability that they didn't have before... LOL!!!

My...How Time Flies

2011-03-28T13:15:00.002-04:00

I can remember just finding out that I was expecting.. seems just like yesterday. It was a surprise to me because I already have a daughter that will be 11 this year. I had no plans of having another child. But, he is here now. Elijah, my son, is truly a character. There is so much difference in my children's personalities it amazes me. He is very outgoing and talkative, my daughter, Nicole, is not. He is very comical with the things that he says and does out of the clear blue. A true clown. My daughter does have a sense of humor, but it is usually spurred by something that someone does, not coming from her. He chooses to stay up and watch scary movies with me all the time, no matter what they are, how scary they are.. she is the opposite.. truly a girly girl. If anyone remotely looks like they are about to scream about anything, blood, a shriek, strange sounds...anything... shes gone...on to her happy happy joy joy world. LOL! He is very competitive, she isn't. He is very energetic and works out with me every time I work out (and will ususally complete it), she is not.. she is more into arts and crafts (she does like to dance and cheer, tho) ... she does like dancing.. etc

Anyway....my little man is turning 5 years old today... and he knows it.. woke up this morning asking where is his cake! :) I'm so looking forward to enjoying my time with my kids while they are still kids...before it becomes too cool for them to kiss me goodbye in the morning before they are off to school.. before notes start getting passed back and forth in class...before holding my hand is just he worst... before the phone starts ringing off the hook...before drivers licenses, cars, boyfriends, girlfriends, shopping, and money become the most talked about topics of the day. Happy B-day Elijah, my little man. ... Lesson: enjoy everyday while it lasts and take it for what its worth.

A Novel Idea - My love of Paranormals

2011-03-13T14:08:00.005-04:00

I have been contemplating trying something new.. outside my normal writing genre/sub genre. Although my first two books were more contemporary relationship based and based on "real times", my heart wanted to write something totally different. When I wrote in Between Lies, I had no idea that it would be receieved as well as it was and my growing audience wanted more of Savannah, Kevin, and the now infamous Naomi, so Intimate Illusions was born as the sequel. Prior to writing Intimate Illusions, I really had not thought of penning it at all, until the demand and requests came for it. I was actually in the process of writing "Dark Whispers," which is still on the back burner. Dark Whispers is more of a suspense, kind of dark, as the title suggest. I wanted to step out of the contemporary scene for a while and get my feet wet in the paranormal which seems to be the big thing now and a favorite realm for me. (I'm a huge day dreamer anyway)

I fell in love with Paranormal and Time Travel Romances as a teen and have been drawn to the wonders and unknown pretty much all of my life. So it's natural for me to want to write it... right? For the sheer pleasure of escapism, reading/writing paranormal romances fit the bill. So my next quest is to write the paranormal that I would love to read (even though after writing Intimate Illusions, people are wanting to know more about the antics of Naomi, the surprise baby, the turmoil that she caused, and more...and its coming!).

One of my all time favorite authors of the paranormal is Jude Deveraux. A Knight in Shining Armor set the stage for me, and apparently, it's a fav among a lot of readers. I discovered her as a teen and that was it for me. I was struck by the bug and started to devour every book of hers and any other one that resembled it. Another author I really like is Marilyn Campbell who wrote Stardust Dreams and Worlds Apart, among others... fantastic author! You should really visit her site if you love paranormals!

Anyway, with that said, I have placed the third installment of my "Naomi" series (never thought it would become a series, so I never labeled it as such, but I guess it is now), on hold for a moment and started a kick butt paranormal featuring a hard core female with some really cool paranormal abilities, a hot rmance to match...and... well I can't tell you now, but stay tuned for some excepts and the final copy.

Discovering Dexter Morgan

2011-03-09T12:55:00.000-05:00

I know I'm really late when I say that I've been watching Dexter. I just stumbled onto him while thumbing through Netflix a little while ago. I must say that I was hooked from the first episode! This guy is great...for a serial killer....with morals (the code he was taught by his stepfather)?! I can honestly say that he is the first serial killer that keeps me at the edge of my seat while dodging his police counterparts that were very close to catching him. I'm only up to season 5. I watch it on Netflix and I have to say that I really like Netflix but Im slightly disappointed with them at the moment because I cannot seem to get Season 5....seems there is a long wait.

This series was/is based off of a book Darkly Dreaming Dexter, by Jeff Lindsey who just released another Dexter novel last Sept 2010. I haven't ordered the book, but I plan to very soon. Check out the site and by all means, watch Dexter. If you like suspense and dark humor, you will absolutely LOVE Dexter!

The E-book.....here to stay!

2011-03-06T12:48:00.001-05:00

I have been toying with the idea of publishing my books in ebook format. Seeing as though that ebook revolution is seemingly here to stay and it seems, eventually may override print sales in the years to come... I guess I should stop toying around with the idea and just take that leap! According to some current statistics that I've viewed, ebook sales are growing at a very rapid rate, with no signs of slowing down! Most of my friends and collegues do purchase ebooks as well as hard copy, but I have found that most seem to be leaning more towards the digital format.

There are a few authors that have had major success with nothing but ebooks. Amanda Hocking for example, is a great place to start. I came across her while doing a little research for one of my marketing classes. Of course, since I am a writer, all that I talk about, read about and think about is what??? writing! :) I was thrilled and excited to see that she, like myself, started out self publishing and did things on her own terms and was/is very successful with it. It takes a klot of work as I'm sure Ms. Amanda (or anyone else) can attest to, but the challenge is always welcomed, fun, and tiring at the same time.