Jade Lee Blogs

Chatting about the Bridal Favors Series

2011-12-07T14:19:00.003-06:00

Well, MY title obviously didn’t go. And you’ve guessed it…we’re talking about the new Bridal Favors novel, Wedded in Scandal. Available in March! (The novella will be available earlier…probably in Jan. I swear!) Look for the beautiful cover beneath the video.

ALMOST AN ANGEL is OUT!

2011-10-08T14:31:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite books as Kathy Greyle is finally up in ebooks. It’s a time travel romance back to the Regency. It’s light, it’s funny, and by the end, I’m usually tearing up. Well, check it out. See what you think. And btw, scroll down for the full chapter 1 excerpt.

Kindle

It's also available at iBooks and (eventually) on Sony ereader.

Back cover copy: ALMOST THERE

Carolly Hanson was training to be an angel, or so she believed. It was the only explanation for why she kept dying and reappearing in different places and times. Clearly she was intended to help people--and clearly the best way to help people was to find them true love. Never mind that it hadn't worked yet.

This time she awoke in the arms of James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern. He would be her next vict--er, beneficiary. The handsome noble was charmed by her odd sense of humor, strange forthright manner and complete lack of interest in trapping him in marriage. But he also thought her a Bedlamite and wasn't the least bit cooperative with the women she pushed in his direction. So, just who was James's true love?

The answer might be as close as the earl's embrace.

EXCERPT:

Chapter One

May 20, 1815—England

Carolly stumbled and fell into the grass, letting its cool, sweet scent envelop her. She tried to move her right arm, but pain shot through her ribs and she groaned into the dirt. Thank God she always healed quickly at the beginning of each life.

Another life. Another incarnation. That could only mean she hadn't done enough or learned enough or given enough in her last life. So, now she had to start all over. Maybe this time she could earn her wings.

She didn't know how long she lay there, her body throbbing with agony, but eventually the steady thud of hoofbeats penetrated her consciousness. Someone was riding. On a horse. Coming toward her. If only she had the strength to lift her head to see. With a grunt of effort, Carolly managed to roll over to stare at the sky. Once upon a time she'd thought being dead meant she didn't have to hurt any longer. Boy, had she been wrong.

The hoofbeats pounded through the ground, adding to the steady thrum of her pain. Carolly remained still, unable to work up the enthusiasm to rise and grab the person's attention. If whoever it was rode on by, then it was his loss. If he stopped, he'd get his reward. That, at least, she'd managed to figure out in her first few incarnations: The person she met first needed her the most.

Except, she reminded herself sternly, she was the one working at something. She had to earn her wings. She sighed. Time to go to work.

Carolly pushed upright, moaning as she did, trying to see beyond the grassy hill where she lay. Off in the distance, she heard a shout and turned toward the sound. A man on a horse. He'd seen her and was riding fast straight at her.

Her strength gave out, and Carolly dropped back onto the ground. She waited.

Before long, a man knelt beside her. Carolly saw dark hair and pale blue eyes, so light they were almost gray. She saw a stem jaw in a face unused to smiles.

"Good God, what happened? Where does it hurt?” His voice sounded rough, but not ungentle as he carefully slid his arms beneath her. "Tell me if this hurts."

She smiled through her pain, enjoying the warmth of his touch. Then he lifted her up, and she had the briefest impression of a muscled chest broader than she might have guessed from her first glimpse. He held her firmly, and she smelled the musky scent of horse and leather and man.
Carolly sighed, this time with delight. Some pleasures never faded. "Thank you," she whispered.
Then she slept.

***

James Oliver Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern, did not like surprises. He liked half-naked and battered women who collapsed on his near lands even less. Which was reason enough, he told himself, to perform his Christian duty by calling for medical help, and then—now—wash his hands of the situation. His staff and the doctor would see to the woman's care. He need not think of her again beyond a simple order to make sure she did not steal anything. Yet, here he stood, glowering at both physician and patient, as the examination continued.

He ought to look away. The doctor had to inspect the lovely young woman; he did not. Still, for some bizarre reason, James felt the strong need to stand here, watching the doctor push into obviously broken ribs and press the woman's thick, black bruises. Couldn't the man see she'd been beaten to within an inch of her life? Did he truly need to prod her more?

"Will she live?" James's voice was harsh even to his own ears.

The doctor shrugged. "Perhaps" was his only comment.

James should quit the room. He did, in fact, order his feet to perform that task. They remained grounded, frozen, immobile, his legs aching from his wild ride back to the house. Why, oh why, did he insist on torturing himself?

The answer, of course, remained both obvious and illogical. He stayed because the unknown woman was fair-haired and polite. Many women in England possessed those qualities, he knew. But despite all reason, the echo of a battlefield haunted him, memories of another young person—a teen with flaxen hair and a chest that bullets had torn asunder. Daniel. James had failed to save him. He had tried, even gotten himself wounded as he dragged the boy's body back to safety. But it had been too late.

Danny's last words had been, "Thank you." As if James had done enough.

Now, here James stood over another fragile blond who'd given him thanks, and he knew that fate had decided to kick him again. God, how he hated surprises.

"You say you just found her?" interrupted the doctor, his second and third chins quivering. "Lying in the field? Like this? She's probably a highwayman's doxy. I suggest you send for the runners immediately."

James shifted, finding a victim for his ill humor. "What do you suppose the runners will find? That she was nearly beaten to death? That she ran from her attacker?"

The doctor flushed a dull red, but did not hold his tongue. "Do not let sentiment interfere with your judgment, milord. She is likely a cheap—"

James cut him off. "Doctor! I suggest you treat the woman and leave my sentiments to me."
But he didn't understand his own ill humor. Certainly the doctor merely voiced what everyone believed. After all, no respectable woman simply appeared in such a state without someone, somewhere raising a cry of alarm—a husband or father, likely in grave distress at her disappearance. And this doctor, whose profession carried him great distances, had obviously heard nothing.

Since only ruffians kept silent when one of their kind disappeared, the man's beliefs had merit. And yet, James could not bring himself to damn a lone, lost woman, no matter what her past associations.

His thoughts were cut off as the strange woman moved. Her breathing hitched and her eyes shifted beneath her lashes. "I believe she's waking," he said.

"I shall bleed her, for safety's sake," the doctor proclaimed, ignoring the change in his patient. He tugged at her slender arm, heedless of the bruises. But, just as he pressed his instrument against the crook of her elbow, the woman gasped, scrambling backwards.

"Stay away from me!" she cried, gasping and cringing as her other hand moved to press against her bruised ribs.

"You are awake," the doctor said.

The woman looked up, her beautiful blue eyes shifting between her rescuers. She was obviously nervous, and James stepped forward, hoping to reassure her.

"Welcome," he began—but was interrupted as the doctor fought to bring his cupping instrument to the crook of the woman's arm.

"Remain still!" the physician snapped. "I am a doctor!"

With surprising strength, the woman wrenched her arm away. "I don't care if you're Hawkeye Pierce, you're not cutting into me!" She matched him glare for glare.

James stepped between them before the situation could worsen. "Perhaps, Dr. Stoneham, as she is awake now, you could leave off cupping her." He turned back, expecting to see a quivering, terrified woman. Instead, the patient seemed to have gained control of herself. Her light blue eyes sparkled with intelligence, and she boldly surveyed not only her surroundings but him.
"I must be allowed to work," the doctor said darkly.

"Not on your life!" the woman replied. She took a deep breath, obviously trying to calm herself. "Look, doctor," she said, though from her tone James could tell she doubted the man's credentials. "Cupping doesn't help anyone, least of all me.”

"It will bleed off your ill humors."

"Not possible," she shot back. The quick sparkle of her laughter surprised both James and the doctor with the sound of its bitter mirth. "Look, the sad truth is there's nothing wrong with me that a little time won't cure."

She looked away, and James was once again struck by her vulnerability. With her flaxen hair making a soft halo about her face, she seemed like a lost angel. He stepped closer before even realizing his intention.

Fortunately, the doctor interrupted. "You will draw an infection!" the man stated, puffing up with outrage. "Mark my—"

"Thank you, Dr. Stoneham," James interposed, once again regretting that this was the nearest physician within three hours' hard ride. "I will send for you immediately should she take a turn for the worse."

Stoneham nodded. "I shall be waiting." He spoke as if pronouncing her doom, then stomped out the door.

The woman snorted in derision. Flipping back the covers, she climbed out of bed. She wore a baggy white nightgown three sizes too wide and about five inches too short. The hem flapped just below her knees, but she did not seem to care that her trim ankles and shapely calves were exposed.

"Great. He's gone," she said as she once again looked about the room. Her rosy toes wiggled against the chill floorboards, and she looked healthier than James expected. Her stomach growled—a loud, low rumbling that made her press her hand to her belly and giggle in embarrassment. "Oh, my," she said by way of apology. "Um. . . I know this is really rude, but could I possibly have something to eat? I'm absolutely starving. I swear I will work off double what it costs."

James felt his jaw go slack. The woman stood completely unabashed before him, her curves enticingly outlined by the light from the window. Once again, he was appalled by his lack of discipline. He should not even be in her room, much less standing there staring at her long shapely legs, perfectly rounded bottom, or at the perkiest breasts he'd seen in many a year. She could not have aroused him more with a deliberate seduction. Unfortunately, she seemed completely oblivious to her charms—which made her all the more interesting and him all the more irritated by his reaction.

"Madame," he began, his voice tight.

"Call me Caro," she answered, searching the room. For her clothing, no doubt, since she crossed to the wardrobe, opening it to find it empty.

"Please, Madame, you have been—"

"Caro or Carolly. Not Madame." She bent over, tugging open one drawer after another in the wardrobe. She found nothing, while James had to forcibly restrain himself from moving directly behind her and fitting her body to his in a most ungentlemanly manner.

"You have been severely—"

"I can't stand formality. It gets in the way of things," she went on from her bent position. She opened the lowest drawer. "It's important you feel comfortable with me."

James closed his eyes. He had to close them, otherwise the sight of her upraised bottom would have completely undone him. "You were severely injured," he reminded himself more than her.

"Really, I much prefer Caro."

"And I strongly—"

"Caro."

"Urge you—"

"Caro."

His eyes shot open and he glared at her, tunneling all his frustration into his stern tone. "Miss Carolly!"

She turned, smiling beatifically up at him. "Yes?"

He ground his teeth. "I run a formal household, madame."

"But 'madame' makes me sound like my mother!"

He regarded her silently for a moment, totally confounded. Finally he snapped, "I do not like surprises!" God alone knew why those words came forth. "Perhaps you should return to bed while I contact someone regarding your accident."

She obviously wasn't listening. She continued to inspect the room, poking at the escritoire and then heading back toward the window. He had to stop her. God only knew what he would see if she stood directly in the sunlight. The hard tips of her breasts already stood out whenever she moved. If the sunlight revealed their color, James doubted his ability to control his baser instincts.

Good God, he realized, he had been far too long without a woman if a strange female tempted him almost beyond reason! But she truly was beautiful, and . . .

With two swift steps, he caught her, being careful to touch only her arm. Her eyes widened at the contact, and she instinctively cringed away from him. He had not gripped her hard, but even so he instantly released her, belatedly remembering her bruises. She had been beaten to within an inch of her life. How loathsome of him to touch her at all, to think such lascivious thoughts about her, to want. . .

"Madame, you must return to bed," he said, "while I send a message to your family."

She shook her head, her eyes wide and her voice suddenly muted. She gazed up at him. “Sorry, no family."

"None?"

"Nope. Nada."

He stood directly before her, and though she was tall for a woman, he still needed to look down to see into her face. A bare shift in his gaze would reveal the dark shadows of her nipples.

"Perhaps a friend?" he managed to say through his constricted throat.

"I'm afraid I'm all alone in the world." She lifted her shoulders in a casual shrug, and he nearly groaned at both her words and her movement. He was losing the battle. He knew it. No man could resist temptation for so long, and certainly not one who had lived virtually as a monk since returning from the battlefield.

"I may be all alone in the world," she continued, "but I'm not a doxy like that quack physician said. That's a whore, isn't it? A harlot?”

For the first time in years, James was completely nonplussed.

"Well, I'm not one." She glanced up at him, and he made a conscious effort to regain control of his body and mind. "Look, I know things seem odd right now."

He raised an eyebrow—the only movement he allowed himself for fear of giving into his lust.
"I'm not handling this very well, am I?" she asked. Then she sighed.

He had no response except for the obvious. "Please return to bed, madame. I can only surmise your . . . behavior is due to a serious injury. Perhaps you shall feel better after a short rest."

"Pooh."

"I beg your pardon?"

"I said, pooh."

"But—"

Suddenly, she laughed. It was a gentle cascade of notes like water falling onto pebbles. He could only catch his breath at the sound, praying he would hear it again.

"Look. Thank you so much for your concern, but I feel much better," the woman said. She stretched her arms high above her head and wiggled her toes. "However," she continued with a yawn, "I'm always hungry at the beginning of one of these adventures."

As if to emphasize the point, her abdomen released another loud groan.

"Madame! Please cover yourself!" James didn't know where he found the strength to bellow out his order, but somehow he did. And in such a way as to communicate the danger this strange woman courted. She abruptly scrambled away from him, flushing cherry red, then scrambled back into bed and tugged the coverlet up, over her body.

"Perhaps I could suggest a bargain, madame," he said in his coldest tones. "If you will keep yourself properly covered for a week while you heal, I shall have Cook send up a bowl of gruel."

"Gruel!" She had begun to settle back onto the bed, but twisted around at his suggestion.

"You would prefer chicken broth?” He forced himself to keep his tone hard. Though she now sat in bed, her body covered, the memory of what he'd seen, of what he'd wanted to do, still burned in his blood.

"I'll expire from starvation on chicken broth!" she exclaimed. She tilted her head and peered at him. For a moment, her eyes actually shone. "Make it one day of bedrest and the whole chicken," she said.

"Two days," he haggled, "provided Dr. Stoneham says you can leave the bedchamber." Then he forced himself to take one step backwards, away from temptation.

"That quack wouldn't say I could breathe if you held a gun to his head. A day and a half and a steak."

"Three, and gruel."

She groaned. "You're supposed to go down, not up."

"You are supposed to act like a lady, not a child."

That silenced her, albeit only for a moment. She settled onto the bed, folded her legs beneath her, and looked at him. He felt himself grow quite warm beneath her gaze—as if she sought to see the real him, the man without his accoutrements. The concept intrigued as much as it terrified him.

"You're too serious," she said, her gaze almost unnaturally focused.

"And you are too impertinent," he retorted.

She laughed, and once again James was struck by the beauty of the sound. "Well, at least we agree on something." She sighed, her features settling into a guileless smile. "How about this? I promise to spend the next two days in bed if and only if you send me a real dinner—no gruel or porridge or broth—and if you solemnly promise to visit me at least once tonight and twice tomorrow." She lifted her eyebrows as he considered. "How about it? It's the best deal you're likely to get."

He waited, considering his options. He already regretted riding in the east field this morning. Had he gone west, he never would have encountered her, never would have brought her to his home, and would certainly not be standing before her now, his body betraying him in the most embarrassing way. He shook his head at his own ridiculousness.

Yet, who was this strange woman and where did she come from? No man, least of all himself, could resist such a mystery.

"I accept your proposal," he finally said. "Now, if you will please remain in bed, I shall find you dinner. Good evening, madame."

She straightened. "You have to call me Carolly!"

He gave her his most formal bow. "That was not part of the agreement." Then he left the room, quietly shutting her door behind him.

***

Laughing, Carolly left her bed and paced the confines of her room. She was beginning to feel more oriented. She was in England, and her host was a member of the aristocracy. But what year was she in?

Looking around, she did her best to take stock. It was easier without the distraction of her host. Good Lord, but he was sexy. She'd always been attracted to well-dressed men. Add to that the man's sparkling blue-gray eyes, obvious intelligence and breeding, and she'd been hard pressed not to fall into his arms. The only thing that had kept her from completely disgracing herself was that she was here to become a full-fledged angel, not dabble in romance.

But Lord, he did tempt her.

Focus! she ordered herself as once again she studied her room. Truth be told, she adored the elegant furniture and the pretty cream-and-blue fabrics. She trailed her hand across the luxurious four-poster bed and its damask draperies. She'd always wanted to sleep under a canopy!

Next, she inspected the few other pieces of furniture in the room. She'd already explored the wardrobe—a desperate move to keep herself from drooling all over Mr. Aristocratic Hunk— but now she studied the chair, the dressing table, and the desk with its dozen tiny drawers. She spent a good five minutes pulling open each hidey-hole to inventory the contents—which unfortunately were nothing except a bottle of ink, a quill, and some crisp linen paper.

Finally, Carolly sat back and added up what she knew. Given the style and fabrics she saw, she had to be sometime later than the 1600s. Add to that his lordship's clothing: buff pantaloons neatly hugging his narrow hips, a stark white shirt, waistcoat, coat, and of course a tie—no, it was a cravat—stunningly outlining his broad shoulders. He also sported dark unpowdered locks that curled with cute abandon around his frowning face. All in all, it seemed she'd probably landed somewhere in the 1800s.

Or so she guessed. History had never been one of her passions.

Oh yes, and it was spring. Carolly wandered to the window, pushing it open to look outside. She was apparently in one wing of a large, very imposing estate home. Just outside her window ran a wide ledge that traveled the full length of the house. If she needed to, she could easily walk along it. In fact, she was tempted to do just that to get a better view of the land around her, but she suppressed the urge. Instead she noted a large stable, formal gardens, a green forest, and a glimmer of a lake. Everything she saw was enchanting, enticing, begging her to go outside and explore.

But she was stuck inside.

Carolly sighed. If only she had a newspaper. Even a book would give her an idea of the date, but her room remained bare and she'd promised to stay here.

She chewed on her lower lip, and her stomach released a particularly loud growl. She was really hungry. What harm could there be in looking around a bit, maybe going in search of dinner?

After all, she'd be helping out by getting her own food instead of having someone bring it to her.

She tiptoed to the door, opened it a crack and peered out. . .

To find herself staring at the gold buttons of a black waistcoat. She gasped and looked up, only now realizing how tall her host was. And how grim-faced.

"Hi," she said. Her mouth was dry, and she felt the steady heat of guilt rise in her face. "I was just, um, looking to see how long before that food arrived." She backed up, opening the door a little wider. "What are you doing there?"

He leaned against the balustrade, his arms crossed over his chest, his expression forbidding. He didn't say a word.

"You're not standing guard, are you? That would be silly."

"I might be waiting to see if you keep your word."

Carolly felt her flush creep higher on her face. "My word? About not going out and around the house?”

"About staying in bed."

"Oh." She looked down at her bare toes. "Oops."

"Just so." Then he turned and walked away.

"Wait!" she called.

He stopped, his back rigid.

"Please, what—what day is it? And where am I?”

He turned back to her, and she saw his expression soften. "My apologies, madame—"

"Caro."

He raised an eyebrow, and she sighed in resignation.

"Miss, then. Madame makes me sound old and married."

"You are not married? You said you had no one, but. . ." He sounded faintly surprised.

She supposed she understood. The women he knew probably married at eighteen. Had she lived, Carolly would be about twenty-nine. At first it had astounded her that she kept her own body each incarnation, aging as she would normally. Or rather, she kept what she remembered as her own body. Sometimes she wasn't entirely sure. Her memory wasn't perfectly clear.

"No, I never married," she answered softly. It was one of the things she hated most about being dead—no longer having the possibility of a husband and a family.

"So, you wish it known you are unmarried?" he asked.

She stared at him until understanding crystallized in her sluggish brain. He didn't expect her to be married. In fact, he clearly thought her alone. But he'd expected her to lie about it, pretending to be some poor widow instead of a young maid wandering around unchaperoned.

"Of all the Neanderthal. . ." She cut off her muttered curse when she noticed his raised eyebrow. She took a deep breath. "No, I've never been married. I'm a strong, independent woman who never felt the need to shackle myself to a man." She lifted her chin, challenging him to deny her that right.

He merely shrugged. "That no doubt explains your current . . . unusual circumstance."
She felt her face heat in embarrassment. Okay, so she was apparently a lone woman beaten within an inch of her life who had collapsed practically on his front doorstep. That didn't mean she needed a man's protection. "I can take care of myself!"

"Clearly."

She scowled at him.

He ignored her and leisurely pushed away from the banister.

"Very well, Miss . . ." He raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to fill in her last name.

She opened her mouth to answer, but nothing came out. What was her last name? "I. . . I'm Caro. Carolly . . ." She bit her lip. Had she been dead so long she couldn't remember the basics? She never expected to recall names of presidents or rock stars—especially since she was constantly moving around in time. But her name? How could she forget her name?

She looked up, feeling her blood run cold. "I can't remember." Suddenly her legs wobbled, and she had to clutch the doorframe to stay upright. Her host was beside her in an instant, gently leading her back to bed.

"Why can't I remember my name? I'm Carolly . . . Carolly . . ."

"It does not signify. I expect—"

"It sure does signify! It's my name!"

"If you like, I could send for the surgeon."

That got her attention as nothing else could. "No." She shook her head, still struggling to fight through the gray soup of her recollections. "He'll just want to bleed me, and I'll want to punch him."

At his look of horror, she sighed. Really, after years of hopping through time, she ought to have learned how to handle it better—and that meant watching her mouth.

She took a stab at explaining her behavior: "As you can see, I'm feeling a bit disoriented."
"You should rest," he agreed. "You have had a trying day."

She looked up, searching his face as he stepped away, but he'd carefully blanked it of all expression. He did say, "Perhaps I should introduce myself."

She smiled in relief. “That would probably be helpful."

"I am James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern. At your service." He bowed slightly while she reeled from all his names.

"An earl," she muttered to herself. "That's below a duke and above a count. No, an earl is a count. I mean a viscount, right?” She glanced up at him. "This is England, isn't it?"

He obviously had no idea how to respond to her ramblings. Lord, she must sound like an idiot. Still, his voice remained level as he responded. "Yes, this is England. Staffordshire, to be exact."
"As I said, I'm a bit disoriented, uh, sir. I mean, my lord." She felt her face grow hotter. Why, oh why, hadn't she been trained in this stuff before landing here? There ought to be some sort of heavenly prep school. "Or am I supposed to say 'your grace’?"

She never would have guessed it, but apparently her dour host did indeed have a sense of humor. His lips twitched in an almost smile, and Carolly found the expression absolutely charming. Her host sobered then and said, "Perhaps, Miss Carolly, as I am forced to use your given name, you could call me James."

She grinned. Had he just taken the first step in accepting her? God willing, this might just be her easiest incarnation yet!

Before she could say more, James Northram stepped abruptly away from the bed. "Please excuse me, Miss Carolly. I will go check on your dinner." He gave her a pointed stare. "You will oblige me by remaining in bed." It was not a question.

She tilted her head, eager to continue with her heavenly task, wanting to keep James by her side. After all, the more time she spent with him, the faster she could discover how best to help. "Will you visit me?"

He shook his head. "I believe I just have."

He was being difficult. She thought quickly. "On the contrary, I visited you. Or rather, you caught me in a moment of weakness when hunger overcame my reason." Her eyes dropped to his feet. "I'm sorry about that, by the way. I'm usually good about my promises. I'm an honest person. Almost angelic, you might say."

She couldn't tell if her apology made any headway. Her host's expression gave absolutely no clue. "Good evening, Miss Carolly," he responded formally. Then, after another polite bow, he departed.

When he was gone, Carolly dropped backwards onto her bed, and into her pillow. All in all, she decided, she'd made a good beginning. James had agreed to use her given name, and he'd even smiled once. That was a coup with this man, she imagined. As for forgetting her last name, she dismissed it with a depressed sigh. She'd long gotten used to losing bits of her memory—pieces of who she was, tiny snatches of her childhood that could never be recovered.

What was a last name? She never really needed one anyway.

Carolly rolled onto her side and pretended she wasn't crying.

DragonCon!

2011-09-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures I took while I was at DragonCon!

Stripping A Hero - Jade's Contribution to RomCon

2011-08-06T08:14:00.001-05:00

Today, Jade is at Romcon, offering her humble assistance in a variety of workshops. The important one right now is the fabulous: Stripping a Hero class wherein Jade wrote a scene specifically for use. For those who cannot be there in person, she offers her humble excerpt for their reading pleasure. Ladies and Gentleman, please allow me to introduce today’s hero: Brooks.

Once upon a time there was a very handsome young man named Brooks. He was a good man, never kicked puppies, rescued kittens from trees, and enjoyed a good game of whist every now and then. He managed his money well, or at least he hired a very good steward, and he made sure to study Aristotle when in school and sheep husbandry when he was not. It was a sadness that his title came to him young as his parents died of that all too common vague carriage accident. And it was even more sad that he inherited the dark and forbidding title of Earl of Darkblackness who lived in a castle known as Ravenswolfbane.

He passed his obligatory time as a spy for the Home Office earning a discrete yet very sexy scar along his jawbone and the ability to seduce a foreign spy at 1000 paces. He also spent his holidays working honorably for the East India Company and is now a boob...er, I meant naboob.
Fabulously wealthy and the inventor of three new cravat knots (intricitious messiness, merde!, and Bosoms of Venus), Brooks has been sadly forced to find a wife by his grandfather’s inexplicable will that demands he produce an heir or wear short pants for the rest of his life. Understandably, his loyal valet and former batman, Violet, is horrified and threatens to quit. Faced with the terrifying prospect of having to tie his own cravats, Brooks has decided to find a wife.

He has chosen for his bride, the nearly on-the-shelf wallflower Miss Petunia Abercrombie-Smythe-Barnes-Fitch. (In the sequel, two of her relatives will marry one another, move to America and start a teen clothing store with hot looking cover models. But I digress). Brooks has picked Miss Petunia for her for her beauty. In particular, the lusciousness of her bosom, the breedability of her hips, and the high arch in her foot. He has a thing for foot arches. He has the horrible suspicion that she may be literate as everyone else calls her a bluestocking, but as her stockings today are a lovely white, he feels safe. Besides, he secretly likes smart women, but he has this whole personna of being ridiculous (it’s his cover for the Home Office) so he must perforce maintain it.

The courtship has been proceeding apace–with him writing terrible sonnets to her eyelashes and throwing bouquets of posies at her maid in the hopes that the woman will stop ducking, catch one, read the attached note even though she’s illiterate, and give it to her mistress. It is a difficult plan, but you see, Brooks has a FATAL FLAW. Though he is handsome, rich, smart, a spy, and a great whist player, he cannot manage to speak well to the English woman he would have as his wife. Brooks is a man of action, you see, not a man of words. So when at the Season’s last ball, he saw her necklace slip from her beautiful neck into a pool of icy water, he knew God had given him just the opportunity he required for brave action.

If he could only retrieve the necklace despite grave risk to his person, he could at last show her his devotion. Because, after all, being willing to dive fully clothed into an icy pool is just the kind of feat that would prove he is good husband and father material. Right?

Of course he’s right! So without further thought, Brooks dove fully clothed into the pool. Chills grip him from his manly toes all the way up through his long and handsome spine. But he must not fail! Gasping and sputtering, he managed to clasp the golden necklace in his hands and kick his way up to dry land. SUCCESS! Now he need only present his prize to his lady fair.

He stumbled through the ballroom, unaware that the icy water has frozen his brain, slicked his hair back in a very handsome manner, and shrunken his important bits to next to nothing. Fortunately, Brooks is well liked by any number of matchmaking mamas. They don’t like that his important bits have shrunken up, but know a sure cure! They will strip him of his freezing wet clothing, then shove their daughters in his way in the hopes that he proposes to them in his brain-numbed state.

First to be stripped from his dripping wet, manly shoulders was his frock coat. Brooks helped with that as the lady undressing him was both beautiful and a former lover. Sadly, she was also married, so he could not dally with her. He might have lingered for a kiss, just for old time’s sake, but another lovely miss caught his attention–and his ascot–to gently pull it from his neck.
Brooks appreciated the help because honestly, who wanted a tied thing around his neck? Sadly, this beautiful lady was engaged to the wickedly rich, handsome, and very jealous hero of the last book. Therefore, he pressed a kiss into the lady’s hand and moved on.

Next to be removed was his vest. He liked this vest as it helped to keep his shirt inside his pants, but the lady assisting him this time reminded him that a wet vest was akin to a wet blanket which was, as we all know, no fun at all. Together, they divested him of his vest and he thanked her with a courtly bow. But also, she was so stunningly beautiful, she had to be Spanish and a spy. Therefore, he turned her over to his batman Violet for interrogation at the Home Office, and then went on to find his lady love.

His shirt came off next. It was a fine lawn shirt, as all hero’s shirts are, but as it was time for his manly chest to be revealed, more than one lady assisted in his disrobing. Cuff links, you know, were worn by everyone. Buttons were for those who could not afford such handsome jewelry. As you can see here, Brooks is in his impoverished persona because of the buttons. Sad, but true. Sometimes, he just had to sacrifice manly attire for his work as a spy. Besides, the sheep tended to eat cuff links, and that was just bad form.

And now, finally, our hero made it up to his lady love. He collapsed at her feet, trying to kiss them, because if you recall, he does adore her feet. Petunia was understandably shocked by his appearance, but also horribly impressed. Because, after all, his chest is quite manly.
“My lady,” he cries, as he holds up her necklace. “I... Um... Uh...”

Oh dear. Poor Brooks had lost his ability to speak. In desperation, he turned to the roomful of people who were watching his grand gesture. “Help me!” he cries. “What should I say?”

[Audience offers suggestions which Brooks tries. Until, in the end, someone gets it right.]

Miss Petunia was overcome with lust that magically turns to love. “Oh yes!” she cries. “I will marry you! But first we must make sure this is not a SWEET regency. Come, my love, let us finish getting you out of your very wet clothing. Perhaps some careful attention will reverse the terrible shrinkage damage.”

Then, hand in hand, they went off together. And, I am happy to report, that yes indeed, shrinkage was never a problem again.

High Tea

2011-08-03T14:39:00.004-05:00

Recently, I had the pleasure of enjoying high tea with the ladies of the Red Feather Society. They meet regularly at the Eisenhower Public Library. We had a wonderful time! And the ladies were so sweet, they even gave me the gorgeous necklace I have on!

It's Blaze Blog Time!

2011-07-26T06:48:00.000-05:00

Join me today over at the Blaze Author's Blog!

DRAGONBOUND is New Again!

2011-07-20T09:39:00.003-05:00

DRAGONBOUND is now available for Kindle! You can order it here.

Come See Me at the Eisenhower Library!

2011-07-11T16:46:00.002-05:00

If you're in the Eisenhower, IL area, please join me and the Red Feather Society on July 16 at 3pm. We'll be having high tea and I'll be speaking. It promises to be a great time!

Here's an article about my upcoming visit: link.

DRAGONBORN is New Again!

2011-07-06T10:32:00.003-05:00

For all of you who have been anxiously awaiting the re-release of DRAGONBORN... The wait is over!

It's now available on Kindle and Nook. Coming soon to Sony and iBook.

ONE PROTECTOR

When dragon power flows through your veins, when dragon thoughts burn in your mind, you can accomplish anything. Natiya knows, for she carries one of the last eggs in the land disguised as a jewel in her navel. Day by day the Unhatched grows, and when at last it births they will be joined in a sacred and eternal bond. Gone will be the barmaid forced to dance for pennies; born will be Dag Natiya, revered Queen. Take her body or her soul, nothing will stop them.

ONE SLAYER

When dragon power flows through your veins, when dragon emotions trample your soul, you become a monster. So knows Kiril, for one destroyed his cousin. No matter how kind or joyful, all beings must succumb to the power of the wyrm. That is why Kiril vowed to destroy dragonkind--and he has almost succeeded. Only one egg remains. But there is an obstacle he did not foresee: love.

You can read an excerpt on my website.

I have even more exciting news to share. DRAGONBORN is being made into a comic! The first issue will be available in September!

Blaze Blog Time!

2011-06-26T05:00:00.001-05:00

Join me today for my monthly Blaze Author's Blog!

NEW SHORT STORY!

2011-05-17T11:37:00.002-05:00

Here it is! My first foray into e-publishing: my best ever short story, THE TIME. It’s about two butterfly-like fairy lovers who struggle to avoid the Time for Mating. They wish to have a time without children, but the biological urge is strong! Is the reward worth the sacrifice? The danger?

I’ve priced it as cheap as I could make it (given that I’m doing it through a website/company. Don’t ask. It’s all very confusing to me). Anyway, it’s $0.99 and here are two links! I’ll let you know when it goes up other places.

Barnes & Noble AMAZON

It’s also up at the iBooks store and will be coming from Sony’s reader store whenever Sony stops being hacked and gets back on track. (At least I think that’s the reason for the delay).

So…ENJOY!

Jade

Blogging at Blaze!

2011-04-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

I'm blogging at the Blaze Author's Blog today about Life on Slow. Join me and you might win a signed copy of In Good Hands!

Affaire De Coeur Contest!

2011-04-21T10:35:00.002-05:00

Wouldn't you love to have $100 to go wild at the Affaire De Coeur online bookstore? Enter the Jade Lee Wicked Contest and you just might! Contest details are here.

Just think of the awesome books you could buy! Wicked Seduction, Wicked Surrender...

Radio Interview!

2011-04-16T09:20:00.001-05:00

Join me this evening at 6pm EST at the One World One Voice Radio Show. It will be a live radio interview with Raven.

YOU AS A JADE LEE CHARACTER!

2011-03-28T14:08:00.002-05:00

Be the hero/heroine in a published romance novel by USA Today bestselling author Jade Lee (or her other pseudonym Kathy Lyons). The winner of this item will have his or her name used for a character in Jade's next novel. If this is won by a couple, then she can use both their names! Or perhaps villainy is more to your taste? You can be the bad guy! Or the evil, sexy temptress! Whatever you want, she'll try to provide! This is a charity event. If you'd like to bid you need to send your name, address and phone number to Marianne at downey1@ illinois.edu BY THURSDAY MARCH 31. The actual bidding will be April 2 from 7-9:30pm EST. Call this number, identify yourself as one of my fans, and then give your bid. 217-417-4305 If you want more information, visit http://unigala.org/catalog/super-silent/1003 And if you happen to be at a Jade Lee appearance, let her know that you’re the winner, and she’ll take you out for coffee and gab fest! This is a one-time event, so strike now! What would you give to have your name in print? To fall in love and have hot, hawt sex with a great hero? Call now! Thank you to everyone who has read and enjoyed Wicked Seduction! It's no secret that Kit Frazier was more than just a character on paper to me and I'm thrilled that so many of my readers are loving him just as much as I do. Reviewers are also enjoying Wicked Seduction!

The second book in Jade Lee's Wicked series is powerfully emotional with the return of Kit Frazier, a broken man hoping to find solace by returning home only to find peace in the strength of a woman. A heartbreaking and beautiful story. Don't miss it! – Fresh Fiction

I found this story to be hot and sexy the whole way through and I enjoyed the chemistry these two characters had for one another. ... If you're looking for a book that you can get lost in for a few hours, than look no further. -- Night Owl Reviews

A chance encounter in an elevator leads to an intense relationship. 4 stars – RT Book Reviews

Wicked Seduction is well written, has compelling protagonists, and has a wonderful romance at its center -- all reasons I really loved this book.-- Jane Granville All About Romance (DIK status)

In the next few months, I'll be involved in several signings: Saturday, March 19th Rose's Bookstore 8935 Veterans Memorial Parkway O'Fallon, MO 63366-3093 (636) 272-5857 www.rosesbookhouse.com April 6th-10th RT Convention Los Angeles, CA www.rtconvention.com June 3rd-5th Lori Foster's Reader Event Cincinnati Marriott North at Union Centre, West Chester Ohio http://www.lorifoster.com/community/readergettogether.php June 28th-July 1st Romance Writers of America Conference 1535 Broadway New York, New York 10036 USA Phone: 1-212-398-1900 http://www.rwa.org/cs/conferences_and_events August 5th-7th RomCom Crowne Plaza Denver Airport 15500 East 40th Avenue Denver, CO 80239 (303) 371-9494 http://www.romconinc.com/index.php/convention Join me on Facebook! Congratulations to Dee, who won our last newsletter contest! Here's another fun contest just for members of my newsletter. One reader will win a signed copy of Wicked Seduction! Just email the answer to this question to jadeleebooks@ gmail.com; What is the piece of jewelry that Kit hands the young boy with instructions to give it to Puck?

Join me Today!

2011-03-10T03:57:00.000-06:00

I'm talking about how much I obsess... er loved writing Kit Frazier today at Get Lost in the Story blog. Join us. There's a copy of Wicked Seduction or In Good Hands up for grabs!

Blogging All Around the Web!

2011-02-26T06:06:00.000-06:00

Join me today at Monica Burns blog for her Pleasure Me with Romance Blog Event! Someone will win a signed copy of Wicked Seduction!

I'll also be over at the Blaze Author's Blog! Someone will win a signed copy of In Good Hands!

Visit me at the Blaze Author Blog!

2011-01-26T04:49:00.000-06:00

Let's talk sports at the Blaze Author Blog today!

One lucky reader will win a copy of my brand new Blaze, In Good Hands!

It's the dreaded Deadline Psychosis

2011-01-11T16:58:00.001-06:00

Join me today at Fresh Fiction where I'm talking about Deadline Psychosis!

Chatting about Cats on the Blaze Blog

2010-12-26T04:00:00.000-06:00

Come see how adorable my cats are over at the Blaze Blog!

AND you might win a copy of Taking Care of Business by my hip, contemporary alter ego, Kathy Lyons.

The Core of Romance--with Puppets!

2010-12-20T16:46:00.001-06:00

Here’s a you tube video of me at MORWA talking on the Core of Romance. What makes a romance? At its core, what elements have to be in a romance? And yes, I use puppets!

UNUSUAL HISTORICALS GIVE-AWAY!

2010-12-09T11:48:00.002-06:00

Wicked Surrender isn’t all that unusual. It’s regency-era England and it’s really hawt! But it’s up as a prize today at Unusual Historicals. So wander on over and try to win it!

Visit me at the Blame it on the Muse!

2010-11-30T14:10:00.002-06:00

I'm guest blogging at Blame it on the Muse today! One lucky commentor will win a signed book!

Blogging at Blaze!

2010-11-22T13:55:00.000-06:00

Let's talk about shopping habits and Black Friday over at the Blaze Author's blog. One commentor will win a signed copy of Taking Care of Business!

Fun Interview!

2010-11-19T11:35:00.000-06:00

Join me for a fun interview over at Musings by Wink!

Guest blogging!

2010-11-12T08:27:00.000-06:00

Join me today at Tote Bags 'n' Blogs!

Very Exciting News!!

2010-11-02T09:56:00.002-05:00

Woohoo! I just found out that Brandon from Wicked Surrender is up for a Romantic Times KISS award. KISS stands for Knight in Shining Armor. Isn't that exciting!!!

I'll definitely be at the upcoming RT convention. It will be in Los Angeles, CA, April 6-10, 2011.

Thanks for all who have written saying you love the book. I love it too!

Taking Care of Business is here!!

2010-11-01T10:10:00.003-05:00

My fun, contemporary alter ego, Kathy Lyons has a brand new Blaze romance out today! Taking Care of Business is taking bookstores by storm. Have you downloaded or snatched up your copy yet?

Here's some fun information about Taking Care of Business:

Sex and the workplace… Oh, yeah!

It begins with some seriously sexy action in the elevator. And it doesn’t stop there. Julie Thompson is living out her naughtiest fantasies…at work. Who knew she’d find a secret fling right in her own office building?

Sam Finn can’t believe his good fortune. The undercover multimillionaire has been watching Julie via the security monitors…and now he has her in his arms anytime he wants! And he wants her there…a lot!

In fact, he’s quickly becoming addicted to the great sex they share. Unfortunately, he’s just learned that Julie’s company is failing and she’ll be leaving for good in three weeks.

It’ll take all of Sam’s business savvy to save the situation. But he’ll do it—even if it means making Julie an offer she can’t possibly refuse…

You can read the first chapter excerpt on my website.

There's also lots of exciting Jade Lee news!

John Charles of the Chicago Tribune included Wicked Surrender in his Ten Books to Get Your Blood Pumping! He says "Lee's beautifully nuanced characters and impeccably crafted historical setting are guaranteed to cast their own seductive spell over readers." You can read the full article here.

Wicked Seduction will be out March 1, 2011 and is the follow up to Wicked Surrender. You can see the gorgeous cover on my website now!

And for the dragon lovers among you, there's progress on the comic book front but no art work yet.

Congratulations to Kendra S. from IL! She won the very last advanced readers copy of Wicked Surrender in our last newsletter contest.

You can win your choice of a Kathy Lyons book! Just email your answer to this easy question to jadeleebooks@gmail.com with the subject line "November Contest". In Taking Care of Business, what is Sam's drink of choice? You can find a hint in the excerpt here.

Happy reading!

Let's Chat Over at the Blaze Blog!

2010-10-26T04:53:00.001-05:00

We're talking all about office fantasies over at the Blaze Author Blog. Join us!!

Wicked Surrender in the Chicago Tribune!

2010-10-20T11:15:00.002-05:00

The wonderful and amazing John Charles has included Wicked Surrender in his October reviews section in the Chicago Tribune, 10 Books to Get Your Blood Pumping! Thank you, John!

Join me at Novel Spaces!

2010-10-15T08:46:00.001-05:00

Today I'm guest blogging at Novel Spaces. Stop by and join us!

Visit me at the Blaze Author Blog!

2010-09-26T06:34:00.000-05:00

Today I am blogging over at the Blaze Author's Blog!

WHITE TIGRESS for Free!!

2010-09-15T10:08:00.001-05:00

Now that you've read and loved (I hope!) my latest regency, Wicked Surrender, how about trying out some vintage Jade Lee? How about if it's FREE! Yes, you read that right. For a short time only, September 15 to September 30, Dorchester Publishing is offering White Tigress as a free download on Amazon.com. How exciting is that?

If you're in the St. Louis, MO area, don't forget that I'll be signing books at Rose's Bookhouse. Here are the details:

Saturday, September 18th
3-5pm

Rose's Bookhouse
8935 Veterans Memorial Pkwy
O'Fallon, MO 63366
636-272-5857

Please let me know what you think of both Wicked Surrender and White Tigress!

WICKED SURRENDER is here!

2010-09-08T10:12:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone!

It's here! Wicked Surrender is taking bookstores everywhere by storm! I'm so excited! And for the first time ever, I had a book trailer made just for you, my amazing readers, to enjoy. You can watch it here on my website. While you're there, make sure to read the first chapter excerpt. Let me know what you think!

It's been a busy summer. I’m still recuperating from the 2010 Romance Writers of America Conference. I had such a fun time seeing friends, gave two workshops, and nearly passed out from the heat. Orlando at the end of July was HOT! Thankfully, conference always energizes me and this year was no different. I’ve got an exciting project in the works, but you’ll have to wait until next month’s newsletter to find out what it is!

In the meantime, if you're out and about on the web this month, visit with me:

September 7: Moonlight Lace Mayhem
September 26: Blaze Author Blog

Or if you’d rather see me live, come see me here:

September 18: Speaking and signing books at the MOWRA chapter in St. Louis, MO.
October 16: Speaking and signing at the SOLA RWA meeting in New Orleans.
November 12-14: Dallas, TX at Readers and ‘Ritas

Here at Casa Lee we're ending summer with a bang! The whole family took a trip to Argentina. It was amazing fun. Lots of relaxing and shopping. I've discovered an addiction to nice leather coats. Then we dropped our youngest off at college. It's official, I'm an empty nester.

Congratulations to last month's winner of an advanced readers copy of Wicked Surrender, Patricia M. from Florida!

This month we're giving away the very last advanced readers copy of Wicked Surrender. Email your answer to this easy question to jadeleebooks@gmail.com with the subject line "September Contest". What is the name of the heroine of Wicked Surrender? And yes, misspelled names can still count, but you have to be close!

Happy reading,
Jade

Guest blogging!

2010-09-08T08:13:00.000-05:00

Join me today at Moonlight Lace Mayhem!

Fun Interview!

2010-09-06T05:12:00.001-05:00

Dayna Linton from NovelsAlive.tv did a super fun interview with me while we were at the Romantic Times convention this past April. Here it is for you to see!

They also did a wonderful article on Wicked Surrender. You can read it here.

I'm guest blogging!

2010-09-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

Join me at Emily Bryan's blog today. We're having a great time and someone will win a book!

Wicked Surrender Book Trailer!

2010-08-31T10:02:00.001-05:00

Blogging at Blaze Authors Blog

2010-08-26T10:34:00.000-05:00

Join me today at the Blaze Author's Blog!

Summer Greetings!

2010-08-01T17:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Summer everyone!

I'm sure all of you are lounging around a pool or beach somewhere enjoying lots of summer reading. Thanks to all of you, my first book under Kathy Lyons has been doing amazing! If you would like to have it in paper copy, order soon from eharlequin.com. It's selling out fast! There's also big things in the works. Hopefully, next month I'll be able to make an announcement!

Currently, I'm busy getting ready for the release of Wicked Surrender and the annual Romance Writers of America conference. We're just putting the finishing touches on the book trailer. You guys are going to love it!

Here are my upcoming appearances. If you're in the area, I'd love to see you.

Saturday, September 18
MOWRA chapter meeting
St. Louis, MO

Saturday, October 16
SOLA chapter meeting
New Orleans, LA

Speaking of Wicked Surrender, a few reviews have already come in and I'm just delighted with them! Barbara Vey with Publisher's Weekly said, "Terrific tale, mesmerizing characters and an ending that will have you begging for more." And New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Hoyt said, "[A] darkly sensual, erotically charged historical romance."

Congratulations to Maude from TX! She won a signed copy of Under His Spell in our last newsletter contest.

Join me at the Blaze Blog!

2010-06-26T05:33:00.000-05:00

Today I'm over at the Blaze Authors Blog. Join us!

A Book to Watch For!

2010-06-17T15:59:00.002-05:00

A long while ago I was told that no one would publish romance novels set in China. Fortunately, I hadn't heard that until AFTER I sold WHITE TIGRESS, the first of my six book series set in Shanghai, China 1900.

Then, many years later, I was invited to give a First Sale bouquet of roses to a bright young woman who had just sold, you guessed it, a book set in China. BUTTERFLY SWORDS by Jeannie Lin is set in the TANG Dynasty China, and will be published by Harlequin Historicals in October. Well, I not only gave her a bouquet of roses, I also gave her a cover quote. She just sent me the cover, and I had to share. Isn't it beautiful? I'll try to make it big enough for you to read the back cover copy too!

Congratulations, Jeannie!

Visit me at the Blaze Author's Blog!

2010-05-26T09:10:00.000-05:00

I'm blogging at the Blaze Author's Blog today. Someone will win a signed copy of Under His Spell!

This blog has moved

2010-04-30T20:39:00.001-05:00

This blog is now located at http://jadeleeauthor.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://jadeleeauthor.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

On the Road Again

2010-04-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Join me over at the Blaze Author's Blog. I'm blogging from the road and someone will win an Are you a Tigress? tee shirt!

Don't forget that Under His Spell is in stores now!

Fun Radio Interview

2010-04-19T16:55:00.005-05:00

Due to technical difficulties the interview had to be rescheduled again. As soon as we have a date I'll update!

I hope you will join us when I have a live interview with the gals at Black Pearls Magazine. You can listen live at Blog Talk Radio. If you miss it live, don't worry, it will be downloaded one hour after the show finishes and archived. We'll also be chatting during the interview in the chat room.

Hope you'll join us!

Stop by Romance University

2010-04-09T15:01:00.001-05:00

Delving deep into theory with the SETTING AS CHARACTER workshop at Romance University. Stop by and let Kathy/Jade help you with your characters. Or just comment for a chance to win a free Jade or Kathy book!

Win a Copy of UNDER HIS SPELL!

2010-03-26T11:03:00.002-05:00

Join me over at the Blaze Author's Blog today for your chance to win a copy of Under His Spell!

Under His Spell news

2010-03-15T08:53:00.002-05:00

Woohoo!! Under His Spell has just been picked up by Audible! It's available to subscribers now! Everyone will be able to purchase it in April.

Enjoy!

Wicked Surrender Cover!

2010-02-22T09:17:00.004-06:00

Isn't this the most gorgeous cover? Wicked Surrender is my new historical coming this September.

How I Spent My Valentine's Day

2010-02-15T13:04:00.002-06:00

See my husband represent husbands of romance novelists world wide. We had a fun time with the interview! LINK

Breaking News!

2010-02-10T15:58:00.003-06:00

Exotic Tales by Jade Lee Steamy Stories by Kathy Lyons

Hello Everyone!

Lots of fun news to share with you this month. DEVIL'S BARGAIN has been rereleased. So if you missed it the first time or your copy is so dog-earred that it needs replaced... You can read the back cover copy and the whole first chapter on my website!

This year Jade Lee has a fun, hip new friend in the contemporary genre. Her name is Kathy Lyons! That's right, I'll be writing steamy stories for Harlequin Blaze under Kathy. Visit the Kathy Lyons's website http://kathylyons.com/ to have a sneak peek at my luscious cover for UNDER HIS SPELL. After you're done drooling (don't get any on your keyboard!) you can read an excerpt and the back cover copy.

Don't forget to enter my monthly contest. There's always a fun prize to be won.

In The Raw

2010-01-25T17:25:00.001-06:00

I'm blogging about my new diet at the Blaze Author Blog. Stop by!

SHORT STORY READING - THE TIME

2009-12-23T19:43:00.005-06:00

I gave a short story reading last night at www.internetvoicesradio.comAfter the reading, Rowena asked me where people could find a copy of that short story. Since the magazine it first appeared is long gone and the rights reverted, I figured I could post the story here and later integrate it into the website. So, for those who would like to read my short story, here it is! -- Jade

THE TIME by Jade Lee

Ache.

From shoulder to hip, my back throbbed with pain as I cracked an eye, shaking my antennae to clear the sleep from my sensor hairs.

Black night.

I rolled onto my side, sighing as the weight of my wings fell on my mate.

"Mmmphh." Dretne grumbled in the dark, ineffectively pushing at my wings with a sleepy hand. "Move, Glissa."

"Well, excuse the hell out of me." I took a deep breath, gathering my strength, then pulled my wings up and over so that I could lie on my other side.

"Fold up, will ya? It's the middle of the night." Shivering, he pulled his wings tighter about his body, wrapping himself twice in his soft underwings. "Aren't you cold?"

"I'm wet." Bitterness made me spit the words. Now I knew why my back hurt. I'd been pumping my wings open and closed in my sleep. It's the only way to keep them dry during the Time.

Why did it always come in the middle of the night? I'm too old for this.

Dretne blinked at the moonlight. "You're wet? Really?" A sly grin crept over his face. Looking around our tree home, he saw the spring leaf buds dotting the black branches. "A little early, aren't you?"

"Oh, dry up. Help me spread my wings. They're stuck." I flopped back on my stomach, my wings a thin, wet line straight up in the air.

"With pleasure," he purred. The moon illuminated his form as he unfolded his wings, stretching them almost to the next branch. He flexed his pectoral muscles and tightened his thighs, showing off for me.

His desire was full, already pulsing with eagerness.

"Nevermind." Wincing at the pain, I jerked my wings apart. One wing flapped Dretne in the face, spreading sticky pheromone covered fluid over his sensor hairs.

"Ummmm," he sighed, cleaning his antennae like a cat licking up cream. "I love spring."

"No. No way. Not. Never. NO." I backed away from him, my antennae twitching in defiance.

He froze mid flex, his chest deflating in stunned surprise. "Whadda you mean, `no'?"

"I mean not this time. We've got enough kids. Half the whole forest's related to us. I don't want to."

"Don't what to what?"

I swore under my breath. Pheromones make them so stupid.

"No kids. No staying awake all night to make sure they're on their branches. No middle of the night stomach cramps or baby nightmares. No spinning each cocoon till my jaws burn. Not this summer. Not this year. I want it to be just us."

"No kids?" He blinked, comprehension slipping past the hormone-induced haze.

"No kids."

Dretne fell back onto his sleep perch, dismay making his wings droop in a clumsy fold. "No...," he waved an antennae at my back, "... you know."

"Definitely not." I closed my wings as much as I dared.

Dretne looked around at our neighbors in the nearby trees. I was a signed female whose scent developed for Dretne alone during our first spring. But his signature was not enough to keep the primal urge from other males. Already the wind had carried my scent through the neighborhood, teasing the dreams of sleeping couples. We could see male antennae quivering, their bodies moving restlessly, their wings pumping in the starlight. More than one wife would be mounted tonight, even if it wasn't her Time.

"They'll think something's wrong with me." His voice was plaintive like a child begging for milk.

I backed away further, making sure the wind took the worst of my scent away from him. "I don't care. No kids."

"Okay." He sidled over to me, his antennae reaching for mine. "If that's what you really want." His voice was a low throb in the night, and I felt my body begin to pulse to his rhythm.

"Dretne, please."

"Please what, sweetheart?"

I gasped as the fine hair of his antennae connected with mine. His touch was like liquid heat that burned through my body. He was close enough to trail his hand down my side in a long, luxurious stroke. His fingers paused by my breast, caressing in the most erotic movements.

The pain in my back was forgotten. Suddenly, I wanted more weight, his weight, on top of me. I wanted him in me.

A cold wind blew through the near bare branches, pulling our wings with it, straining my back which sent bolts of agony through my shoulders. Still, I thanked winter's last kiss since it brought enough pain to clear my head.

"NO, DRETNE!" The anger in my voice was enough to stop his hand. I saw his mind clear in the way his eyes widened and his wings compressed.

"I don't understand you, Glissa. What will you do this summer without children?"

My laugh was tinny with hysteria. "What'll I do? I'll sleep! I'll fly on the summer wind, dance in the flowers, bake my wings in the sun."

My words didn't deter him. In fact, the image of my sleek body glistening in the morning dew produced the opposite effect. I watched his desire grow, and it gave me an idea.

"Dretne, we can make love all summer long. Whenever we want. I won't be too tired. You won't be teaching the children how to fly. We'll be ALONE. ALL SUMMER."

This made an impression. His eyes grew soft as he remembered the days before my first Time when we were young lovers, mature in all ways except fertility. Then a capricious crosswind blew my scent past him, and his eyes clouded with primal desire.

The wind also blew back his wings so that I saw the moisture gathering in the soft fur that covered his chest.

His scent had begun, signature designed for me. And I was downwind.

"I want you now." His voice was thick and low.

"After my Time," I begged, fighting the urge to lick my lips, imagining the taste of his moisture, the feel of his body.

"That's a day away," he cried, slowly inching towards me on the branch.

I inched away, shifting onto a branch that took me out of his wind. "Please, Dretne. I've been a good wife. A good mother. Give me this summer. PLEASE."

Dretne was probably the only male of the Bt'fae that would have heard my cries through the haze the Time produces. I was very lucky to have mated with him.

He sat down, pulling at his bottom wing fob in his sulks. "Oh, all right. Fly away if you don't want me."

I ignored the hurt in his voice. I'd have all summer to soothe his ego.

"Go. Go on!" He turned his back on me, giving me a full view of his wings drooping all the way to the perch.

"You know I can't." The wetness on my wings made them heavy and difficult to move. But even if I could fly, I wouldn't leave. With Dretne nearby, I had some safety against the young, unsigned Bt'fae. They wouldn't approach if the signature male was nearby.

"We won't make it," he warned, reason showing through his fit of peeve.

"We will. Just until tomorrow night, the next dawn at the latest." In my heart, I quailed at the long stretch of time before us. "We'll make it."

"Hrrumph," he grunted. "Just stay downwind."

#

Dawn colored the leaf buds in rose and illuminated the wings of the unsigned males that had come to our tree, their many bodies dotting the branches with brilliant colors. It was early in spring, and there were many more than I expected. More and more every minute.

In a way, I was grateful since they occupied Dretne. While their minds, or what was left of their minds, filled with only me, Dretne remained battle ready, hissing and spitting when one came too close. It was exhausting for him to fight both them and himself, and I wished with all my heart that I could end the nightmare.

By high noon an Elder arrived, carefully placing himself upwind. He spoke to me, knowing that Dretne was too occupied with the young males.

"Glissa, has Dretne suffered some ailment?" His voice was sympathetic, although even he showed signs of strain, his antennae twitching with desire.

"No ailment, Elder. We don't want children this summer."

He almost fell off his perch in surprise. "No children! Sacrilege!"

I arched my back in irritation, but stopped the moment I heard the wave of lust race through the ranks of males. I consciously lowered my back, clenching my fists in determination.

"There is no law against denial, Elder. It's our choice."

"It's against nature. Children continue our species. They're ... They're ... important." My proximity was eating as his focus.

"I hardly think our species is in danger," I snapped, glancing scornfully at the males covering our tree branches. There were so many that I feared for the new leaf buds.

"The Time is a gift ... A gift from ... the gods."

I didn't answer except to spit acid at his feet. Although I'd never do such a thing normally, a woman in her Time was allowed many things. Especially a frustrated woman.

The Elder didn't flinch, even when my spit burned the branch under his feet. His eyes stared at the slow beating of my wings, and I knew that soon he would be lost. Sometimes the widowed males were the first to succumb to the Time lust.

"Elder. ELDER!"

The Elder took a step forward, and Dretne was forced to spit burn his legs. The pain broke the haze long enough for the Elder to pull himself into the air, his wings spread magnificently behind him in the bright sunlight. "You won't last," he sneered. "Do it now before you disrupt the entire forest."

Then he was gone, flying upwind, away from me, away from the shame of coveting a married woman.

#

By late afternoon, we had indeed disrupted the entire Bt'fae community. There was no inch of our tree not covered by males. I no longer feared Dretne. He was too exhausted from fighting.

I prayed that he could hold out. If he fell, I would be crushed under the weight of hundreds of Bt'fae trying to mount me at once.

The women were here too. Some of the unsigned females, the unfertile ones, took advantage of the sex starved males, enticing them away, easing their pain, but not their desire. Most just made cat calls and jibes from the nearby trees. They called me a witch and talked about insanity in my family.

I would have my revenge later, I told myself. When they were crippled from the birthing pains or exhausted from nursing the newborns, I would be bathing in the morning dew, dancing in the sun drenched sky, or lying with Dretne in our cool, leafy bower. I held on to those images, trying to ignore the throb of desire whenever Dretne moved nearby. The battle fire in his eyes, the feral growl as he prowled around me, left me burning with need.

My eyes drank in his magnificent torso and breathtaking wingspan. Recent fights had left his body splattered with blood and open wounds. One of his wings was ripped by a too young male without control. And his bristling sensor hairs were now uneven, pieces broken or torn away. But even with these battle scars, he was beautiful. More achingly beautiful than I'd ever seen.

I wanted him so.

We were careful not to touch. He didn't even look at me. He knew the desire burning in my eyes would be too much for him, and we would couple in a frenzy like the lowest beasts, growling in passion, drenched in the wetness the Time produces.

I shook my head to clear it and prayed for a cool breeze to dry my slick body.

#

The sun was setting. Its red fire glinted off the hundreds of desperate eyes that surrounded me, desired me, hungered for me.

My body dripped so that its moisture pooled below me before falling to the earth. Dretne allowed no Bt'fae males on the branches below me. If one were to be touched by my wetness, there would be no stopping him. Dretne would die under the touched one's onslaught, and I would be dangerously injured in the rape that followed.

I wanted to give in. My body pulsed with each breath that rasped through Dretne's lungs. I panted, straining with every muscle to bring him to me, yet unable to move from my sticky perch.

The hunger was so strong, I feared for my sanity.

Yet Dretne stayed outside of reach, taut with battle fire, constantly fighting away the males that encroached a little further with each failing ray of sunlight.

I looked at Dretne's blood as it dripped down his arms.

We wouldn't survive the night.

#

Pain.

The beat of my wings, the throb in my shoulders, the cramp of my legs, all was indistinguishable from another. I was liquid fire.

Pain.

Agony that was itself burning and burned.

Pain.

Would no one save me from this hell?

#

Pit. Pat. Pitter, pit. Pitpatter, pit, pitpit.

The raindrops fell on my wings, cleansing my body, washing my perch. I raised my face to the wetness that was without scent...

And sighed. Clean rain falling faster and faster.

In the hissing torchlight, I saw eyes blink and shake and finally clear.

The rain washed the air, diluting my scent into nothingness. One by one the males that weighed down my tree timidly spread their wings and glided away, both hiding from the rain and seeking out isolated drops to cleanse their sensors and cool their fevered bodies.

One by one they left until there was only Dretne and me. He too relaxed in the rain, letting the water douse his battle fire and clean the taste of acid from his spit.

He looked at me and smiled.

It was almost over.

Almost.

Dretne's smile faded. Without the need to protect me, his desire grew, and his wet scent began to flow again.

How could I reject the man who spent the day risking his life for mine? How could I turn away the lover who fought the haze at my request? We were so close to the end, and yet I'd never wanted him more. In a day tense with suppressed desire and danger, I'd allowed my guard to slip.

He was my friend and my lover.

He was my mate, my signature love.

We touched sensors.

The hairs prickled and sent lightning through my body.

Our antennae entwined.

Even in the rain I could smell his scent.

In the rain, he would slide so easily into my body.

Wait, I begged him silently.

A moment more. A moment more. A moment more.

We stared into each others' eyes, silently begging, straining to touch, but rigid with restraint.

Minutes upon hours upon years upon eons.

We didn't move.

And the rain fell.

And my Time passed.

I felt the eggs die one by one within me.

For a moment, I mourned the children that might have been, the life we chose not to bestow.

Then I remembered the summer to come, the sun-drenched days and moontipped nights.

I smiled.

My body relaxed, and I lazily curled an antennae around Dretne's forehead, my fingers teasing his lips.

"It's over love. Come to me."

His smile rivaled the moon in its brightness. He flexed, then relaxed, stretching forward on our perch to caress my face.

"It was worth it," he whispered, his soft breath stirring the wetness on my wings.

In the dark night just past winter, in the dark night when the leaves had yet to break through their buds, in the dark night of our tree, the summer began.

OUR summer began.

Join Authors Reading Shorts for Soup Kitchen!

2009-12-21T22:50:00.002-06:00

Join me tomorrow to help out the Capuchin Soup Kitchen. I'll be joining several other authors to read short stories live on radio with the goal of stocking a soup kitchen. We hope you'll join us!

Date: Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009
Times: 2 to 4 p.m., 5:30 to 7.30 p.m., 9 to 11 p.m. (all EST)

The authors joining me are: Brenna Lyons, Cindy Spencer Pape, Cornelia Amiri, Lillian Cauldwell, Linda LaRoque, Linda Nightingale, Loretta Wheeler, Mickey Flagg, Sandy Lender, Victoria Houseman.

To Listen Live
http://internetvoicesradio.com/
Enter
In the Black Box, click on "Listen Live"
Sign in (there's a box for that)
Listen and Enjoy

To enter chat room
http://internetvoicesradio.com/
Look on the lower right under "In The Spot Light"
Live Chat Room... click on that.

To set up an RSS feed (to listen on mobile)
RSS feeds. Click on middle box RSS/PODCAST. Put "Soup" into description. Pay $3.50. Your donation will be acknowledged.
To donate to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen with or without listening either:
PAYPAL
lsaracauldwell@gmail.com
Memo "Soup"

or:
visit http://www.cskdetroit.org
Click on Click_And_Pledge or Donate Online
to donate using a credit card.

Thank you for your generosity. Have a Happy Holiday!

News!

2009-12-16T11:42:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I was on Canned Laughter. Its a short 15 minute radio show. You can listen to the archives here.

File this under hot, hot, HOT! Here's the cover for my April Blaze, Under His Spell, under Kathy Lyons. Wouldn't all of you like him under your tree?

Devil's Bargain Gets 4 Stars!

2009-12-06T09:44:00.002-06:00

Also, Dragonborn is featured in The Best of Futuristic, Fantasy and Paranormal Authors.

What I've Loved Reading This Year. A Random Sampling.

2009-12-02T07:38:00.001-06:00

People are always asking me to recommend good books. I say, MINE, of course! But other than mine, I've put together a random sample of author's I've really loved this year (or any year!). Keep in mind, that when I'm writing historical books, I can't read them. When I'm writing my contemporary Blazes, I can't read contemporary books. I ended up, this year, with a lot of urban fantasy.

Jim Butcher's Dresden files are the BOMB! LOVE HIM. LOVE THEM!
Shannon Butcher's BURNING ALIVE (have the sequel on my Kindle right now!)
Jennifer Hawthorne's A HINT OF WICKED (historical)
Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld series
PC Cast and Kristin Cast's House of Night series (Young Adult)

That's off the top of my head. I'm sure I'll find more. But for right now that's what I'm reading!

Jade

And the winner is...

2009-12-01T11:47:00.002-06:00

Dragonborn!

Recently, Dragonborn, was awarded Best Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Futuristic at the Golden Quill awards!

Off to celebrate with some M&M's.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T06:18:00.001-06:00

Well, I had to write this post ahead of time because I am, in fact, stuffing my face with my family. But in the off chance that someone who is NOT busy eating reads this blog, I've got something to ask.

What is something UNEXPECTED this year for which you are thankful?

Usually, I'm thankful that SOMEONE ELSE is making the food that is so fabulously arrayed before me. Usually, I'm thankful for my family and friends, my recent contracts, my generally wonderful life. Yadda yadda. Okay, so I'm blessed. But this year, something incredibly weird happened.

I'm thankful that I AM able to try and cook something this year. Yes, for my vegetarian daughter I'm going to try and cook a vegetable pot pie. The recipe was in Vegetarian Times to which we subscribe. But...you see, I don't cook. Well, maybe microwave popcorn, but that's the extent of it. In fact, I'm becoming something of a raw-ist not because of principle or anything like that. But because I'm too lazy to do more than pull spinach leaves out of a bag. Add some pre-shredded cheese and I've got dinner.

So the fact that I'm motivated to try to cook something as elaborate as pot pie...well, that is a shocker indeed. And kudos to whatever urge struck me hard enough to get off my duff and try. So THANK YOU to the mysterious urge. I'll let you know later if the experiment causes other people to thank me for NOT doing this again next year.

UPDATE: Vegetarian Pot Pie was edible. Barely. Was welcomed to make it again for next year, so long as I'm not hurt when no one eats it. But I tried, so I feel like it was win!

Jade: The Rebel

2009-10-26T09:31:00.002-05:00

How do you rebel against those things you just don't want to do? Join me at the Blaze Author Blog to see how I avoid revisions.

Teaching An Old Dragon New Tricks

2009-10-14T13:07:00.001-05:00

Join me today as I visit with the gals over at Pop Culture Divas. We're talking about audio books. One lucky reader will win a signed book from me!

Guest blog from Moonlight & Magnolias!

2009-10-06T10:04:00.001-05:00

Today I'm a guest blogger over at Novel Spaces talking about why you should or shouldn't attend writing conferences. I hope you'll join us!

Its All My Fault

2009-10-03T10:40:00.001-05:00

Drunken authors blame story idea on me! The Sheik and the Skank. From trailer to tent in search of a hop, skip, and a hump. Read the details at Redlines and Deadlines today.

My Summer Vacation

2009-10-01T09:10:00.001-05:00

Stop by eHarlequin today and guess what I and some of my fellow Harlequin authors did on your summer vacation.

Visit me at the Blaze Author's Blog!

2009-09-26T07:18:00.002-05:00

Today I'm blogging over at the Blaze Author's Blog. Join me!

Naughty Editions

2009-09-22T11:50:00.001-05:00

Thanks to all who listened to my radio interview (or downloaded it - still available!) And also my interview with Naughty Editions is up! Here's the link! Stop on by and comment!

Dragons on Talk Radio!

2009-09-21T13:51:00.003-05:00

Jade Lee will talk about Dragons with Susan Kearney and Rowena Cherry on LIVE TALK RADIO!

Just visit http://www.internetvoicesradio.com/ The show will air Tuesday, Sept 22 from 10 am to noon EST. Or you can download it afterwards. So stop on by and hear all about your favorite magical lizards and the love stories they inspire!

September News!

2009-09-08T15:07:00.004-05:00

It’s September, Jade Lee fans, and Getting Physical is out! It’s a Blaze book (Harlequin), so you can get it on line at http://www.eharlequin.com/ or at your local bookstore. You can also go to my website for an excerpt and back cover copy. Or you can just read on while I blither a little about it.

Getting Physical is a really good example of the best and worst of the writing process. My heroine Zoe is struggling to get her life back together when the most wonderful and difficult roadblock appears: a sexy, Tantric master by the name of Stephen. You may recognize him from The Tao of Sex. Okay, as far as roadblocks go, hot sex is probably not a biggie. The thing is, as much fun as really good orgasms are, it’s hard to build a life around the myriad ways to experience them. Even more difficult for me was to explain the complex religious concepts behind Tantrism (though, you my regular reader, already know everything you need to!) And oh yeah, Zoe needs to build a career, a life, and a happily-ever-after that isn’t just about sex. Getting Physical was an incredibly challenging book to write with real life issues that had to be met and surpassed. After all, Zoe and Stephen have to earn their happily ever after, right?

Intrigued? Go ahead! Pick up a copy! Then email me where you got it (even if it was an e-download) and you’ll be in the running for a free tigress tee-shirt! The winner of my last newsletter contest was: Mildred Cook! Congratulations Mildred! (My email address is jade@jadeleeauthor.com)

There’s a ton of other news, but it’s mostly on my blog. Dragonborn finalled in a ton of contests. Yeah for fantasy dragons! The most recent is in the Maggie contest which has it’s award ceremony at the Moonlight and Magnolia Conference in Atlanta, GA this October 3-5. You guessed it, I’ll be there! I’ll be speaking too or rather giving advice as people practice pitching at me. I just hope no one throws up on my shoes. Yes, that has been known to happen when people get nervous!

My other appearances are all listed on my website. I’m already scheduling out through May of next year, so keep checking regularly to see if I’m going to be in your area. And conference coordinators, feel free to email me if you’re interested in having a great Jade Lee workshop. I’m pretty popular, so put in those requests soon!

That’s it for this newsletter. I just finished my new Berkley historical Surrender To Me. It’s a May 10 release. So now I get to take a week off to read and relax before diving into something new. I can’t decide if it’s going to be another historical, a Blaze, or more dragons. Feel free to email me with your vote! Until then, take a deep breath and repeat my new mantra: LIFE IS GOOD!

Jade

Join me on the 26!

2009-08-25T10:33:00.002-05:00

I'll be blogging at the Blaze Author blog August 26. Stop by and we'll chat about Getting Physical!

Let's Chat at Borders!

2009-08-19T09:25:00.002-05:00

I'm at BORDERS today! Sue Grimshaw's True Romance blog is kicking off with Linda Howard, Julia Quinn, and me! (Among others!) I just wanted to put my name in that company! Anyway, I'm there Thursday, August 20! Here's the link. Someone will win a tee and a book from me, so come by and comment!

GETTING PHYSICAL -- CHEAP!

2009-08-17T08:45:00.005-05:00

Obviously, my plan to blog often hasn't quite worked out. But...hopefully I'll get better when school starts. That's my plan at least.

QUICK NOTES! Getting Physical is available CHEAP from eharlequin.com as a $2.99 download. It will be available in paperback starting in September, but that's at the regular price. So...run now! Fire up your Kindle or Sony or computer (or whatever device you have) and get it now!

Also...I'm on this month's Border's must read video! Check it out here

Gotta run, but I'll be back soon. I swear!

Jade

ROMANCE VIDEO PARADY

2009-07-27T09:57:00.003-05:00

Quick blog today! Tomorrow (Tuesday, July 28, 2009) Barbara Vey is going to premiere the video she made at Thrillerfest. It features a bunch of male thriller authors doing a parady of romance novels. It's supposed to be really funny. So...I'm encouraging you all to go look at the blog. I'll be giving away a copy of Dragonborn to a lucky commenter.

Here's Barbara's link (hopefully it'll be the right day, but if not...just switch to Tuesday, July 28th blog entry. BTW, she's the Publisher's Weekly Beyond Her Book blogger and a big, wonderful sweetie! So...here's the link: http://www.publishersweekly.com/blog/880000288.html#680046868

New Resolutions and Unicorns...

2009-07-25T13:14:00.002-05:00

Hello all! I've made a new resolution. I'm going to (a) write more! and (b) blog more! So long as B doesn't interfere with A, then life will be awesome! Or so goes my plan.

But...for those of you who don't know, I'm a regular blogger at the Blaze Author's blog site. On the 26th of every month, I blog over there! So...please go check it out. Here's the link: www.blazeauthors.blog

Late Night Sex Reading, or, History is NOT boring!

2009-06-24T11:56:00.002-05:00

So last week-end I had the privilege of being a featured speaker at the Historical Novel Society’s conference. It’s a smaller conference of about 300 people, most of whom are more educated than...well, me. And even if they’re not more educated, they seem to be because they know things about history. A lot of cool things about history, actually, like what really is the difference between Roman and Greek culture, and what that Other Boleyn girl’s name is.

Suffragette Costume worn by Joan Baril

I know stuff about US history and also can credibly talk about Chinese history and culture. But these people know what the difference between a fossil and an artifact. And they actually make it fun to learn! Here’s a picture of someone in the costume competition. Every entrant got a stack of books too!

So what, I ask you, was I doing being a featured speaker? Was I the keynote? Hardly. Was I featured as the go-to-girl for information on historical romance? Um, no. Though I did manage to talk a lot about being a romance novelist, mostly because I didn’t want to be found out as a historical ignoramus. But by the end of the conference, I can safely say that just about all 300 attendees knew who I was. Why? Because I was part of the late night sex readings. Yes,
you read that right. Late Night Sex Reading in front of everybody. And they didn’t even dim the lights!

Those who know me probably aren’t in the least bit surprised by this, but I have to say, I was rather intimidated. Not only was I sitting up there with the likes of Diana Gabaldon (who, by the way, is Dr. Gabaldon), but I was about to read an intimate scene from one of my books in front of people who could put me under the academic table, so to speak, without even waking up. Sure, I’d spent the day with them, and not a one was rude, pompous or arrogant. They were all lovely, fascinating people who share a love of history. But as the week end wore on, I realized that what I love is romance. I want to see two people overcome immense obstacles as they fall in love. That love doesn’t need to be in history, though I adore writing in the regency era. It could as easily be contemporary as paranormal or fantasy (see www.jadeleeauthor.com for my current releases–hint, hint).

So my love and their love didn’t quite connect as I’d hoped. And that was never more apparent to me than the moment I stepped up to read the oral sex scene in The Dragon Earl.

Now, I’m supposed to be reporting on what fabulous things went on at the conference. People who were there (Barbara Vey, Beyond Her Book Blog), books that were interesting (I was very impressed with Kamran Pasha and his book about the mother of the Muslim faith, Mother of the Believers, and some of the fabulous things I learned (that I’m an academic embarrassment). But truthfully, I was too busy being impressed to take notes. Yeah, I suck.
But...the conference website gives the speakers and their websites and
more. You can find out details there.

But mostly, what I wanted to say was that these are smart, funny, wickedly interesting people! Historical novels aren’t even remotely like taking a history class from boring old Mr. Thompson who smells bad. They’re fascinating and true! Well, true-ish. And I would highly recommend attending next year! Or in 2 years if you might have difficulty getting to England (they alternate
conferences between North America and England).

Oh, and by the way, the late night sex reading went great. Turns out that even if I don’t remember who the Galts invaded, I can still write (and read aloud!) about falling in love. And the Other Boleyn Girl’s name was Mary.

Jade

RT INTERVIEW / RADIO

2009-06-10T09:48:00.003-05:00

If you missed the Romantic Times Convention, you can listen to a small piece of it! Blog Talk Radio from All About Romance E-books (ARe) did interviews in the hallway all conference. My interview will air on Blog Talk Radio on Monday night, June 22, 9:30p ET. After that, it will be available in the archives as a podcast. Click here to check it out! So you know, the interview is done in sequence, and I’m the last one. The order is: Deirdre Knight, Cassie Ryan, and then me. (Saving the best for last?) It’s an honor being classed with these ladies, so tune in!

Oh…and here’s a picture of me doing the interview. I think I look like a girl who’s just sucked on a really big lemon! And notice the big cup of coffee in my hand? Yeah, I spend the ENTIRE conference like that. (not the lemon part, the coffee part!)

Jade

WOO HOO!!!

2009-06-02T11:45:00.004-05:00

Guess what I got in my email last night? Come on…guess! Okay, here’s the answer:

Phoenix Desert Rose is pleased to announce DRAGOBORN is the Best Fantasy, Science Fiction, Futuristic Romance for the 2009 Golden Quill.

WOO HOO!!!

ONE PROTECTOR

When dragon power flows through your veins, when dragon thoughts burn in your mind, you can accomplish anything. Natiya knows, for she carries one of the last eggs in the land disguised as a jewel in her navel. Day by day the Unhatched grows, and when at last it births they will be joined in a sacred and eternal bond. Gone will be the barmaid forced to dance for pennies; born will be Dag Natiya, revered Queen. Take her body or her soul, nothing will stop them.
ONE SLAYER
When dragon power flows through your veins, when dragon emotions trample your soul, you become a monster. So knows Kiril, for one destroyed his cousin. No matter how kind or joyful, all beings must succumb to the power of the wyrm. That is why Kiril vowed to destroy dragonkind—and he has almost succeeded. Only one egg remains. But there is an obstacle he did not foresee: love.

PRISMS!

2009-05-26T09:44:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone! I’ve been writing up a storm for my April Blaze titled Under His Spell. Or maybe I’ve been writing up some magic. Get it? Magic–Spell? Okay, so I haven’t had my coffee yet. Sorry.

Anyway, I wanted to tell everyone my great news. I’ve been nominated for 2 PRISMS!!!! Woo hoo! For those of you who don’t know, the Prisms are the award from the Futuristic, Fantasy and Paranormal chapter of RWA (Romance Writers of America). “Kung Fu Shoes” from These Boots Were Made for Stomping anthology is up for Best Novella. And Dragonborn is up for Best Fantasy. The award ceremony is Thursday July 16th at RWA Nationals in Washington DC. If you’re going to be there, please, please come by and say HI!

Until next time, happy reading!!

Jade

NEW COVER!

2009-05-08T08:30:00.001-05:00

Woo hoo! Finally, I’ve got the cover for my September Blaze. For those who pay attention to me…I think I screwed up and posted the wrong title. That’ll teach you to follow what I say! Anyway, the real title is GETTING PHYSICAL and here’s the cover. How hot is that? It’s Stephen and Zoe’s story. You may remember them from The Tao of Sex that came out last January. (Wow, that was a long time ago!) Anyway, it’s more tantric sex. Woo hoo! Here’s the back cover copy:

TANTRIC SEX RULES:

#1 Think about Sex!

When savvy business student Zoe crosses paths with sexy international businessman Stephen—a Tantric master—she’s about to get a transcendent learning experience.

#2 Start touching!

The sex is incredible, mind-blowing, life changing! Unfortunately, it also comes with a time limit. Because Stephen’s home is on the other side of the world.

#3 Full Sexual contact!

Still, Zoe’s going to enjoy every moment with her skillful, exotic lover. But it isn’t long before she realizes she’ll have to choose. Does she want to hold on to the life she has…or have a lifetime of feeling his body move against hers?

Like there’s a choice…

THIS AND THAT …and WOO HOO!

2009-05-05T12:28:00.003-05:00

A few quick notes Jade Lee fans! First the WOO HOO! Dragonborn is a finalist in the Golden Quill contest (Desert Rose RWA chapter)! It’s entered in the Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Futuristic category. Winners will be announced June 1, so cross your fingers for me!

Next, here’s a picture of me at the RT book signing. And guess what? I had a table all my own on the side! I actually cried when I saw it! I felt like I’d grown up as an author. Seriously! So…the picture’s here of me at my own table on the side: Thanks to Judi Fennel for posting it.

And finally…I’ll be guest blogging on Lucienne Diver’s blog. For those who don’t know, she’s one of the premiere agents in the romance biz, and she’s having a Historical Week on her blog. I’ll either be up on Tuesday or Wednesday, so be sure to stop by! The link is here: http://varkat.livejournal.com/

Okay…gotta go back to work. Must write. There will be more later in the week. I promise!

Come Visit with Me on April 24th!

2009-04-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Be sure to stop by MuchCheaperThanTherapy.blogspot.com on Friday, April 24th. I'm being interviewed about all things "Jade Lee" so you definitely won't want to miss it!

Always the possibility of goodies as well! I'll be popping in and commenting as I can...Internet access willing...so do be patient!

Jade

APRIL NEWSLETTER

2009-04-10T16:42:00.000-05:00

My April newsletter went out. If you didn't get a copy, just click on the Contest link. That'll enter your address automatically into my newsletter. Plus…you get a chance to win free stuff including an amazon.com gift certificate. So read on…

Hello Jade Lee fans! There's so much to tell you all that I don't know where to start!

How about this...THANK YOU EVERYONE who voted for me in the PEARLs. I came in second place in Novella with “Kung Fu Shoes” (These Boots were made for Stomping anthology) and second place with Dragonborn in Best SF/F with Romantic Elements. Considering the competition, I'm more than thrilled, so THANK YOU ALL!

BTW, PEARL stands for Paranormal Excellence Award for Romantic Literature. Congratulations to Michele L. for entering my newsletter contest with that answer. Michele...contact me at jade@jadeleeauthor.com and tell me what Jade Lee book you want! Never fear those who didn't win. Another contest is listed below, but you have to read down to find out what it is.

Next...Dragonbound is out!!! WOO HOO!!! Finally, Sabina and Cordain's story goes out into the world. And let me say, it's probably the best book I've ever written. At least so far. Hopefully, I'm getting better. Anyway, Cordain is the Copper dragon, now a man. He's loved Sabina since she was a child, but she has less than fond memories of slaving away as his dragonmaid. Not a pleasant task, let me tell you, cleaning dragon teeth, dragon scales, dragon poop. Plus, her relationship with the former Emperor Dag Racho was not a nice relationship at all. But she needs something from Cordain, so she goes in search of him. And, oh yes, war is brewing against Ragona. Life is about to get very complicated for Sabina and Cordain. The last thing they need to do is fall in love!

There's lots of adventure in this book, but lots more romance. Lots of hot romance! I'm not sure I could even write a book now that wasn't sexy sexy! You can find excerpts on my website (both Chapter 1 and the sizzling hot excerpt), plus back cover copy, reviews and a link to buy!

For those who are looking to connect with me face to face, I'll be at the Romantic Times Convention in Orlando, Florida from April 20-26. Yup, I'm there the whole week, speaking almost constantly, and hanging out at the bar when I'm not. If you find me and tell me that you're a regular newsletter reader, you'll get a Tigress Tee from me! Grab me at the signing or any time during the conference. It's always fun to give away stuff! Here's the link to the RT Convention [www.rtconvention.com].

All other news can be found on my blog as it comes up. I'm kinda sporadic when it comes to posting, but I swear I'm trying! Now...what have I forgotten? Oh yes, the newsletter CONTEST! Email me– jade@jadeleeauthor.com – where you bought Dragonbound and a lucky winner will win a tee shirt!

Jade

Recipe from China Moon! Hot and spicy noodles!

2009-03-13T08:30:00.001-05:00

China Moon's Dragon Noodles

1/4 cup sesame oil

1 tablespoon Chinese chili sauce

2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons juice from pickled ginger

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 1/2 tablespoons Japanese rice vinegar

2 1/2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 pound very thin fresh Chinese egg noodles

Grated rind of l lemon

2 tablespoons black sesame seeds, toasted in a dry, heavy skillet until fragrant

3/4 cup thinly sliced scallions

For the garnish:

Grated red radish

Julienne of scallions (both green and white)

Toasted black sesame seeds

In a bowl combine the oil, chili sauce, soy sauce, pickled ginger juice, lemon juice, rice vinegar, sugar and salt. Whisk to blend and set the bowl aside.

In a colander fluff the noodles to separate and untangle the strands. Bring a large saucepan of water to a rolling boil. Add the noodles and swish them gently with chopsticks. Let them cook for 2 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still have some bite. Drain them, plunge them briefly into ice water, then drain again. Shake the colander to remove excess moisture and transfer the noodles to a bowl.

Whisk the dressing again to combine it. Toss the noodles with just enough of the dressing to moisten them well, using your fingers to coat and separate the strands. Let the noodles sit for 10 minutes.

Taste the noodles. If they seem dry, add a bit more dressing and toss again. Add the lemon rind, black sesame seeds and scallion rings and toss well.

Taste the noodles again. They should be bright and sparkly. Cover them tightly and refrigerate up to one day.

To serve: Bring the noodles to room temperature. Mound the noodles in a bowl or twirl them in individual bowls. Garnish each dish with grated red radish, scallion and black sesame seeds.

Serves 2 or 3 as a main course; 4 to 6 as part of a multicourse meal.

From: http://www.razzledazzlerecipes.com/chinese-recipes/dragon-noodles.htm

TRAVELS!

2009-03-11T09:29:00.002-05:00

Elizabeth Hoyt and I travelled down to Louisiana this past week for the lovely NOLA conference. I’ll have pictures eventually. But…just so you all know, we signed our books at every book store we could find along the way. So…below is a list of places that now have SIGNED COPIES of my books!

Barnes and Noble – 3111 S. Veterans Pkwy, Springfield, IL 62704

Barnes and Noble – 6510 N. Illinois St, Fairview Heights, IL 62208

Borders – 6601 N. Illinois St. Fairview Heights, IL 62208

Book Shelf – 8452 Watson Road, Webster Groves, MO 63119

Barnes and Noble – 9618 Watson Road, Sappington, MO 63126

Borders – 10990 Sunset Hills Plz, St. Louis, MO 63127

Barnes and Noble – 721 Gravois Road, Fenton, MO 63026

Borders -- 2825 S. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804

Barnes and Noble – 3055 S. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804

Borders – 3300 S. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804

Barnes and Noble – 4000 McCain Blvd, N. Little Rock, AR 72116

Books-A-Million – 2747 Lakewood Village Drive, N. Little Rock, AR 72116

Barnes and Noble – 11500 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211

Barnes and Noble – 6646 Youree Drive, Shreveport, LA 71105

Books-A-Million – 2001 Asirline Drive #166, Bossier City, LA 71111

Barnes and Noble – 1000 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ste 3008, Ridgeland, MS 39157

Barnes and Noble – 6385 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38115

Barnes and Noble – 4610 Merchants Park Circle #521, Collierville, TN 38017

Barnes and Noble – 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy, Memphis, TN 38133

Borders – 6685 Poplar Ave #110 Germantown, TN 38138

THE CONCUBINE…THE REAL STORY – PART 2

2009-02-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

Part one summarizes briefly the real history behind the Pageant of Fertility that I used in The Concubine. Today’s blog is about what I changed and why. The more I read about the women in the Forbidden City, the more horrified I became by what their lives were like. Hundreds of concubines lived in the Forbidden City and none of them were allowed to leave. Ever. Every girl aspired to become the new Empress, and yet the moment she walked into the Forbidden City, she would lose all contact with anything and anyone outside the walls. She might never be given news of her family, of their lives or deaths. She would be trapped inside (my words) with hundreds of other women all fighting for one thing: to get pregnant with the Emperor’s baby. A horrible life, and yet to be selected as an Imperial Concubine was an enormous honor and would bring great benefits to one’s family. After all, so the thinking goes, what is a woman for but to bring honor to her family through her marriage? Forget the life she had to live to do it. Forget what she wants. All is done in the name of family honor.

Within moments of reading about this contest to become Empress (again, my words), I had the idea of Ji Yue—a smart woman born way ahead of her time. She would be raised to serve as a political wife, her brain her best asset. But unfortunately, the Emperor was not predisposed to look at his wives as anything more than a womb. What was she to do? I had to create a political man, also dependent upon the Emperor, but someone who would see Ji Yue’s strengths, know her beauty, and want her for his own. So came the Emperor’s best friend, Bo Tao.

Both Ji Yue and Bo Tao were completely my fabrication. Truthfully, women were not educated in China, certainly not in terms of politics. And any man close to the Emperor would need to be an eunuch. Since I really didn’t want to castrate my hero, I bent the truth and allowed the Emperor’s best friend to be a whole man.

Other things I changed included putting Bo Tao in charge of the Festival. Truly, that was something that the Dowager Empress handled on her own, along with the help of her favorite eunuchs. The “tests” I created were extrapolated from research on appropriate female assets and signs of fortune or fertility. Also, the…um…extra-curricular activities that happen in the book, especially those by the dead Emperor’s concubines were completely made up. Totally, wholly fiction. Though in my defense, what little information I could find on their lives indicated all that one might expect from lots of women living together with nothing to occupy their time. Some became religious converts. Others lived on petty backstabbing and jealousy. And yes, some settled on other forms of entertainment.

But mostly, I see the story of The Concubine as the struggle of the people BELOW the most powerful Emperor. Both Bo Tao and Ji Yue are completely dependent on the whim of the Emperor. How does one find love and purpose in such a precarious position? Especially when a single mistake could cost everything for yourself and your whole family. That’s what drew me to the story of The Concubine. I hope you find it equally compelling!

2009-02-20T10:24:00.003-06:00

THANK YOU EVERYONE! Thank you for your well wishes, your votes, and just allowing me to be in such fabulous company. And now without further ado here are the PEARL winners! (look for me in Best Novella and Best Science Fiction/Fantasy! Woot woot!)

Here are the Readers' Choices for Best of the Best in 10 Paranormal Categories

ANTHOLOGY

Winners

DEAD AFTER DARK by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Susan Squires, J. R. Ward, Dianna Love,

BLOOD LITE by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Jim Butcher, Kelley Armstrong, Charlaine Harris,

Honorable Mention

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAT by Nalini Singh, Lora Leigh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones

FUTURISTIC

Winner

DARK LIGHT by Jayne Castle

Honorable Mention

HEART FATE by Robin D. Owens

SHAPESHIFTER

Winner

CRY WOLF by Patricia Briggs (Urban
Fantasy)

Honorable Mentions

ROGUE by Rachel Vincent

HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT by Cynthia Eden

NEW AUTHOR

Winner

Ann Aguirre

Honorable Mention

Jocelynn Drake

MAGICAL FANTASY

Winner

ACHERON by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Honorable Mention

THE DARKEST PLEASURE by Gena Showalter

SCI-FI FANTASY

Winner

SHADES OF DARK by Linnea Sinclair

Honorable Mention

DRAGONBORN by Jade Lee

VAMPIRE

Winner

LOVER ENSHRINED by J. R. Ward

Honorable Mention

WAIT TILL YOUR VAMPIRE GETS HOME by Michele Bardsley

TIME TRAVEL

Winner

VIKING UNCHAINED by Sandra Hill

Honorable Mention

TWIST by Colby Hodge

NOVELLA

Winner

"Story of Son" in DEAD AFTER DARK by J. R. Ward

Honorable Mention

"Kung Fu Shoes" in THE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKING
by Jade Lee

BEST OVERALL

Winner

ACHERON by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Honorable Mention

ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE by Jeaniene Frost

Congratulations to the winners!

And before I head off to enjoy this Mardi Gras weekend (otherwise known as work on another book), I just wanted to tell you all I’m Spotlighted on Dear Author today (Friday). Swing by and say hi!

Happy reading,
Jade

Where in the WORLD is Jade???

2009-02-17T07:47:00.001-06:00

I'm blogging over at Unusual Historicals today. Come check it out; and if you comment, you'll be entered to win a really cool prize!!!

http://unusualhistoricals.blogspot.com/2009/02/guest-author-jade-lee.html

Jade Lee + Comic Con = EXCITEMENT

2009-02-13T11:44:00.004-06:00

Be sure to check out the pictures I took at Comic Con (New York) in February 2009.

I got to play "fan girl" with Barbara Hambly.

I checked out the fans in amazing costumes.

Visited with Sherrilyn Kenyon...

Watched Barbara Vey (Publishers Weekly) outsmart the Stormtroopers!

Saw many "blue" characters...

And so many fans in costume...

Check it all out here or on Flickr!

Let me know what you think!

THE CONCUBINE is Here NOW and Exciting News!!!

2009-02-03T20:04:00.004-06:00

HELLO JADE LEE FANS!

Welcome to February and what a month it is! First the fabulous news…

My books are up for 4 PEARL AWARDS!!!! For those who don’t know, PEARL stands for…um….Paranormal Excellence in Romance or something like that. Hmmm. Any reader who can tell me what it really stands for gets a special thanks from me! And one will get a free book! Email me at jade@jadeleeauthor.com Oh…and here’s the link for the finalist list As you can see, I’m up in 4 different categories. (Woo hoo!)

DRAGONBORN for Best Romance Science Fiction / Fantasy
DRAGONBORN for Best Overall Paranormal
“Kung Fu Shoes” (in THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR STOMPING!) for Best Novella
THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR STOMPING! For Best Anthology

For those of you who are eligible…please go vote for me!!! For those who aren’t, you can always join and then vote (until Feb 14). Here’s the link: ParaNormal Romance It’s a great group of people. Fun to read all those reviews! So go join!

THE CONCUBINE
February 2009
Publisher: Harlequin Blaze
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 0373794533
ISBN/13: 978-0373794539
Buy Now!!

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
BOOKS A MILLION

You can read more on my website.

And next...it’s finally here...THE CONCUBINE! The second ever historical Blaze book, and wow, do I love this book! It’s set in the Forbidden City in a it-really-happened contest to marry the Emperor. So you thought we invented Who Wants to Marry a Prince? Nope. Chinese had it first with a marry the Emperor contest. My blog has information on the full history and what I changed for the book. I can give you one hint. In my book, the hero is NOT an eunuch. LOL! The back cover copy is listed below, but if you want more, I’ve got an excerpt and reviews up at my website. Romantic Times loved it (4 stars) and here’s what Fresh Fiction said: “Well known for her exotic romances, Jade Lee has spun a hot and torrid love story set against a strongly drawn background of the corrupt and powerful practices existing in the Imperial Court in 1851. The growing attraction between Sun Bo Tao and Ji Yue is captivating while Lee's solid historical research pulls you right into the forbidden places the Dutch traders crave to be. This is one exciting tale you won't want to miss!”

Okay, here’s the back cover copy for THE CONCUBINE by JADE LEE:

Requirements for being a royal consort:

1) Exemplify purity.

2) Pass all demanding tests.

3) Gracefully withstand petty backstabbing.

4) Be chaste. Very chaste.

Check to all! Chen Ji Yue is on her way to empress superstardom in nineteenth-century China. She only has to vanquish 300 rivals to bring her family great honor. Oh, and she may not find the deliciously sexy Sun Bo Tao—the emperor's best friend—at all delicious. Or sexy.

Damn. Ji Yue is in big trouble.

Because Bo Tao is definitely very sexy….

And Ji Yue is about to discover that chastity is overrated….

THAT’S IT FOR THIS MONTH! And, in case you were wondering, DRAGONBOUND is coming at the end of next month. In fact, for those of you who purchase it early, please email me and tell me where you got it! Honestly, it’s an April book, but Leisure always ships EARLY! So keep your eyes peeled and email me when you get it. I can always be reached at jade@jadeleeauthor.com

And in the meantime...happy reading!

Win a a copy of THE DRAGON EARL and a $20 Amazon gift card. Contest ends February 28, 2009
Enter Contest

Nominated for 2008 PEARL
ParaNormal Excellence Award in Romantic Literature
DRAGONBORN Best Science Fiction / Fantasy
DRAGONBORN Best Paranormal Romance of 2008
"Kung Fu Shoes" Best Novella
THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR STOMPING! Best Anthology

WHICH IS MY DESK?

2009-02-02T23:02:00.001-06:00

eHarlequin has a guess-the-desk game up. I’m giving away a back title to a lucky winner! Go ahead and guess! Here’s the link

THE CONCUBINE…THE REAL STORY – Part 1

2009-01-30T17:42:00.002-06:00

I promised in the back of The Concubine to post the real history behind the story I created. There’s way more than I can tell you in a simple blog. Chinese history is vast and complicated. However, here’s a snippet as it feeds into my book. First a quick backdrop on Emperor Xian Feng.

Yi Zhu was born in 1831 and succeeded the throne in 1850 at the age of 19. He inherited a crumbling dynasty that faced challenges not only internally, but also from Europeans. The Taiping Rebellion began in 1851, and spread to several provinces with amazing speed. Xianfeng dispatched several prominent mandarins and Imperial relatives to crush the rebellion with limited success. Several Muslim rebellions in the southwest began in 1855.

Now, from my primary source, I’ve condensed the following. This is paraphrased from The Stone of Heaven by Levy and Scott-Clark

After 27 months of mourning his father, Xian Feng did indeed host a pageant of fertility on June 14, 1852. All suitable daughters of Manchu aristocrats were to present themselves to the Imperial Household Office. Girls with buck teeth whose hairs were growing in the wrong direction need not apply. Only 60 girls, walking awkwardly in platform slippers hung with pearls and jade, were allowed to rustle over the five marble bridges that spanned the Jade Belt River, crossing the cobbled expanses f the Forbidden City’s outer courtyards. The girls were poked, prodded, and measured for signs of good fortune and fertility. Eventually 28 perfect specimens were selected, then paraded before the Dowager Empress who awarded them a position in the Son of Heaven’s seraglio. Every woman wanted to become a Imperial consort, high consort, or consort as only these women could bear the Emperor’s child. But most would become lesser concubines who rarely slept with the Son of Heaven at all, and only then to arouse him before one of the senior members of his harem was carried into the bedchamber.

So, the base set-up for The Concubine is factual. My next blog will talk about what I changed and why. If you have questions, please feel free to comment and I’ll address them as best as I can.

NEW TITLE!!!!

2009-01-19T14:56:00.002-06:00

Harlequin has decided on the title for my sequel to THE TAO OF SEX. I won’t tell you what my title was for Stephen and Zoe’s story. Why? Because I come up with lame-o titles. Truly lame! But…

Brilliant editor Brenda Chin decided on the following title for my September 09 Blaze. Ready?

IT'S A YIN/YANG THING

Jade

Greetings in the New Year!

2009-01-13T14:50:00.003-06:00

Hello Jade Lee fans! I hope that 2009 brings you much joy and love! And maybe I can help with that–at least the love part! I’ve got a lot coming out, so read on! And BOOKSELLERS make sure you get to the end for a special offer!

The new year starts warm during these cold, cold days with WINTER HEAT, an anthology I did with Vicki Lewis Thompson and Anna DeStefano. Both lovely ladies, btw, and I thought their pieces were marvelous. All three of our stories deal with couples during the worst ski resort launch ever! Here’s what Romantic Times Book Review magazine said about Winter Heat. “This trio of stories is humorous, sexy and edgy. Solid characters and conflicts offer a depth not often seen in pieces of this length, with Lee’s arguably the most intriguing of the three.” 4 stars! Follow this link http://www.jadeleeauthor.com/winterheat.shtml to learn more about WINTER HEAT including an excerpt of my novella.

Next month is my very sensuous historical Blaze titled THE CONCUBINE. This is a new project for Blaze. They’re trying out historical settings for their hot, hot books, and mine is the second ever! Here’s the link to learn more about it, but the book doesn’t come out until February, but you can order it from the www.eharlequin.com site right now! Here’s the link: http://www.eharlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=18515&cid=192 And if you want to learn more, you can always check out excerpts and reviews on my website at http://www.jadeleeauthor.com/concubine.shtml

Anyone subscribe to Romantic Times Book Reviews? If so, then you’ve already got the February issue. One of their primary articles is on heros and heroines who struggle with some kind of drug addition. Here’s what Kathryn Falk says in her Dear Reader letter. “In this issue you can read about an upcoming trend–flawed protagonists and their addictions. The topic was once popular in historical romances, but it practically disappeared until the 2007 publication of Jade Lee’s Tempted Tigress.” Wow! Look at that! I’m a trendsetter! If you haven’t checked out Tempted Tigress, don’t wait. It’s a great book of adventure and love in China. I love that book!

BOOKSELLERS! I’ve managed to create special SIGNED BOOK PLATES to add extra value to your Jade Lee books. Email me your address at jade@jadeleeauthor.com and you can get a sheet! FANS! You can get one too! Just email me and I’ll send it out!

That’s it for the moment! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to email me at jade@jadeleeauthor.com I’m trying to update my blog more often, so you can always comment there. And don’t forget my monthly contest!

Jade

Christmas is coming; Jade is getting fat! Please put a romance in my Christmas hat…er…stocking…er…just hand it over!

2008-12-02T22:42:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I don’t adapt lyrics well, but that’s what happens in December! There’s snow on the ground, my pants feel tight, and I start humming my own version of Christmas carols. Plus, my daughter has shown me her design-your-own-Puma-shoe site! And yes, she’s designed her own, so it’s possible the Puma store will be getting some money from me soon! In short, it’s December and I’m thinking about holiday food and what I should read next! That’s what I do on the holidays: eat and read. How wonderful is that?

But enough about the holidays! I’ve just done a radio show with some fabulous authors and we all have our own stocking stuffer recommendations! You can hear the show on http://internetvoicesradio.com and Lillian generally posts a brief blurb about all shows on podbean.com. And if you’d like to bop on over to the attached bookstore for a more complete look at our titles…well, here’s that link! http://ebookisle.net/PIVTR/tuesday.htm

So…what do you do on your holiday vacations?

jade

CONCUBINE Cover

2008-11-07T14:42:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone! I have been feverishly trying to finish a new book the last few weeks, and I have neglected to keep you all updated! I JUST received the new cover for my February 2009 Blaze Historical, THE CONCUBINE, and I wanted to post it right away!

Like it, love it, loathe it?? Tell me in the comments!

-Jade

WINTER HEAT is here!!

2008-10-28T04:31:00.003-05:00

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD Morning lovelies! I'm finding time early this Tuesday morning to share with you the cover for my new collaboration with Vicki Lewis Thompson and Anna Destefano, WINTER HEAT, that comes out January 13, 2009! Oh goodness, I cannot believe it is almost 2009 already! Where did 2008 go?? You can pre-order WINTER HEAT on Amazon.

Speaking of 2009 quickly approaching, leave your favorite memories of 2008 in the comment section. Mine so far was definitely ComiCon in July. It was a riot and I can hardly wait to go back next year! The year isn't over yet, so there is still tons of time for new adventures in 2008!!

Happy reading!

Jade

Free books? Yes please!

2008-10-14T14:11:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! Hope you all had a wonderful and restful Columbus Day! In honor of holidays and relaxing, I'm giving away a free book at Unusual Historicals! Check it out!

Jade

Shauna Roberts Interview!

2008-10-02T10:21:00.004-05:00

Here's where I am today! I'm giving away a free book. Come comment for a chance to win!!

http://shaunaroberts.blogspot.com/

Festival of Life!

2008-09-30T15:47:00.003-05:00

For those of you who don’t know, my mother passed early this year. As part of a Buddhist Festival of Life, my sister paid a farmer to raise 6 pheasants. The birds (which are actually quite beautiful) reached the appropriate age for release this weekend, so we set free into a no-hunting zone. Hopefully they’re smart enough to stay there and not wander off! The Festival of Life, btw, just asks that the mourners release something that would have been killed back into the wild.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t get a picture of the pheasants flying free. They’re fast! But here we are—I’m in the dragon tee shirt!

Double wammy!

2008-09-18T22:48:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! Hope you are having a great week and really looking forward to the weekend. It's so nice that the weather has started to cool, especially since I've been writing so much. I haven't felt bad about not leaving my office.

The Chicago Tribune recently reviewed THE DRAGON EARL. You can find the review here

I've also received a copy of the DRAGONBOUND cover. What do you guys think??