Friday, December 23, 2005
Thursday, December 15, 2005
What's Inside
What will you find in fine flickering hungers?
- Wetter Has Never Been Better
Join Stormy as she discovers the delicious secret of the Costa Rican rainy season. - Soul Slipping
a logical poem about love - Topping Love
What toppings do you want on your ... um, love? A story about what's really important in a relationship. - drifting
a poem about winter and wanting - It's All About Customer Service
He's not your average repairman. - Full
a poem about pain - Jake
Every woman should have a lover like Jake! - Journey
a poem about discoveries - Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun
Learning to love Halloween. - Surrogate Sin
a poem about a savior - It's Just Sex!
Confession is good for the... - It Comes
a poem about tomorrow - Boiling Point
Carly decides it's time to turn up the heat. - Tapestry
a tactile poem about cunnilingus - Say It With a Strap-On
When the words won't come... - ex sighs
a poem about letting go
Monday, December 05, 2005
Sunday, December 04, 2005
CTR Review of Erotique
EROTIQUE
ALESSIA BRIO
ISBN# 1-59426-548-8
October 2005
Phaze
www.phaze.com
E-Book
$2.00
Rating: 4 Cups
Mandy is a college student who just inherited the family business—a sex shop called Erotique. She is about to learn that Erotique is more than just an average shop.
Bruce is Mandy’s friend, but he would like to be more than just her friend. Erotique just might give him what he wants.
Erotique has been in Mandy’s family since 1897 when it opened as a treatment center for ‘hysteria.’ Mandy will inherit the shop/museum as long as she can spend the night there during the next full moon. It seems that some of the exhibits are haunted — some dangerous and some quite enjoyable. With Bruce’s help, can Mandy survive the night in Erotique?
This is a great short story filled with a lot of personality. Ms. Brio creates a well-written, clever erotic jaunt shaped with colorful characters. Ms. Brio’s use of distinctive dialog really makes the characters shine as individuals. I especially enjoyed the interesting history on sex toys. Erotique is perfect for anyone who likes erotica with a unique twist.
Kelley
Reviewer For Karen Find Out About New Books
Reviewer For Coffee Time Romance
ALESSIA BRIO
ISBN# 1-59426-548-8
October 2005
Phaze
www.phaze.com
E-Book
$2.00
Rating: 4 Cups
Mandy is a college student who just inherited the family business—a sex shop called Erotique. She is about to learn that Erotique is more than just an average shop.
Bruce is Mandy’s friend, but he would like to be more than just her friend. Erotique just might give him what he wants.
Erotique has been in Mandy’s family since 1897 when it opened as a treatment center for ‘hysteria.’ Mandy will inherit the shop/museum as long as she can spend the night there during the next full moon. It seems that some of the exhibits are haunted — some dangerous and some quite enjoyable. With Bruce’s help, can Mandy survive the night in Erotique?
This is a great short story filled with a lot of personality. Ms. Brio creates a well-written, clever erotic jaunt shaped with colorful characters. Ms. Brio’s use of distinctive dialog really makes the characters shine as individuals. I especially enjoyed the interesting history on sex toys. Erotique is perfect for anyone who likes erotica with a unique twist.
Kelley
Reviewer For Karen Find Out About New Books
Reviewer For Coffee Time Romance
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Erotique Review
Mandy has just gotten news that she stands to inherit her aunt's shop. This is not just any normal shop; it is an adult toy store with a museum of toys from days long ago. There is a catch though: she must follow instructions left by her aunt to fulfill the requirements of her will. Most of them are standard requests except for the last one. She must spend the night there and do it on the full moon. Along for the ride is her best friend, Bruce. By the time the full moon arrives, Mandy will come to realize that her shop is truly one of a kind and Bruce might be more than what she realized.
Erotique offers readers a short story that is both unusual and imaginative. The idea behind the museum was one that opens the reader's mind with some insight into the history of toys. Although, there is no guarantee that the history told here is true, I enjoyed the extent that Alessia Brio went to in order to make her story original and believable. Mandy is a woman that knows she would one day be the proud owner of the little shop, Erotique, but is not prepared for it to be so soon. She meets the challenge head on. Bruce offers a stable addition to Mandy's life and a relationship worth experiencing. Alessia Brio has earned 4 Angels for her imaginative tale of toys!
Reviewed by: Jessica
fallenangelreviews.com/November2005/Jessica-Erotique.htm
Erotique offers readers a short story that is both unusual and imaginative. The idea behind the museum was one that opens the reader's mind with some insight into the history of toys. Although, there is no guarantee that the history told here is true, I enjoyed the extent that Alessia Brio went to in order to make her story original and believable. Mandy is a woman that knows she would one day be the proud owner of the little shop, Erotique, but is not prepared for it to be so soon. She meets the challenge head on. Bruce offers a stable addition to Mandy's life and a relationship worth experiencing. Alessia Brio has earned 4 Angels for her imaginative tale of toys!
Reviewed by: Jessica
fallenangelreviews.com/November2005/Jessica-Erotique.htm
Friday, November 18, 2005
$4
fine flickering hungers, by Alessia Brio
ISBN 1-59426-540-2
November 2005
A finalist in the first annual Fruity Awards, fine flickering hungers is a collection of eight erotic short stories with accompanying poetry. Sexual scenarios vary from hetero- to mono- to homosexual to group, with the only common thread being that they seldom (if ever) take place in a bed.
Size: Comet
Rating: Nova
Read an Excerpt
ISBN 1-59426-540-2
November 2005
A finalist in the first annual Fruity Awards, fine flickering hungers is a collection of eight erotic short stories with accompanying poetry. Sexual scenarios vary from hetero- to mono- to homosexual to group, with the only common thread being that they seldom (if ever) take place in a bed.
Size: Comet
Rating: Nova
Read an Excerpt
Thursday, November 10, 2005
ERRW Interview
W: Good Morning Alessia. Not only are you a talented author but if I am not mistaken, a very busy person. So, we would love to learn more about you; especially what you are doing when not writing. Where are you from?
AB: Depends on who you ask! I'm sure there are a few who'd say I came straight from heaven, and quite a few more who'd say just the opposite. Geographically speaking, I have lived my entire life in the vicinity of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
W: Would you care to share a little about your family life with us?
AB: Well, I'm currently married … and, if you catch me at just the right moment, I may even say that's a good thing. I have three young children who test my limits on a daily basis … and, if you catch me at just the right moment, I may say that's a good thing, too.
W: Do you write full time or do you work outside the home too?
AB: No - to both. I neither write full-time, nor work outside the home. I have my fingers in a dozen different projects, most of which are volunteer efforts. Writing was "just" a hobby until very recently, and I hope it never, ever feels like "work."
W: What would be the one thing you'd want us, the reader, to know about you?
AB: That as long as my writing is enjoyed, I'll keep doing it. So, readers - yes, YOU - show your appreciation of my scribblings by giving me some feedback! (Oh, and buy every single title I publish, too. *wink*)
W: What made you decide to become a writer?
AB: Those damned pesky fantasies wouldn't leave me alone until I wrote them down!
W: What were your feelings when your first book was accepted?
AB: Elated. Amazed. Giddy. Apprehensive. Did I mention, elated?
W: Did you always want to write erotic romance? How did that come about?
AB: Come about? (*tee hee* You made a punny!)
I've written non-fiction for many years, but never even dreamed I'd be writing poetry or any type of fiction. It was those damned pesky fantasies, I tell ya! It's all THEIR fault.
W: Do you write in other genres? If so, do you use a different pen name?
AB: I don't (currently) write any other forms of fiction. I do write poetry, though. My single-author anthology, fine flickering hungers, contains eight erotic short stories and eight poems.
Pen name? You mean, you don't think Alessia Brio is my real name?
W: Who would you say was the biggest influence in your decision to write?
AB: Hmm … I can't say that anyone influenced my decision to write. ("Inspiration" is another matter entirely. *grin*) However, without the influence of my best friend, I'd never have SHARED that writing.
W: How do your family and friends feel about you being an erotic romance author?
AB: Those who know are very supportive. Most don't know.
W: How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you have any set formula or guide that you use?
AB: I am a rule-breaker, so I eschew any formulas or theories on how to effectively create enjoyable fiction. It really varies from piece to piece. Some start with an intriguing character, others with a story line, and still others with a sexual scenario around which I build a story.
W: Many writers have a set routine in their writing, either writing each day or in a certain spot. What about you?
AB: Again, it depends on the story and how it feels to me. I don't have a fixed place or time for writing. I just go with the flow. I'm horridly undisciplined, and I like it that way.
W: What advice would you give to new writers just starting out?
AB: Wait! I AM a new writer just starting out. I cut my teeth at Literotica. The Author's Hangout is a wonderfully supportive environment with some very, very talented denizens. (Nice people, too!) If erotic fiction is what you want to write, I don't think you can go wrong by tapping into the expertise found there.
W: Can you tell us a bit about the books you have out now?
AB: I have two published works, both with Phaze: Erotique, a HeatSheet Shiver, is an erotic short story about a sex toy museum and shop in which the exhibits are very "educational;" and fine flickering hungers, a single-author anthology consisting of eight erotic short stories and eight poems.
In addition, I am an active participant in a philanthropic self-publishing venture called Coming Together. It is a serial collection of erotic stories, poetry, and original illustrations. 100% of the proceeds are donated to charities. The regular editions benefit the Electronic Frontier Foundation (www.eff.org), which works to protect our online freedoms. Plus, we published a special hurricane relief edition, which benefits the American Red Cross.
W: Of all the books and stories you've written, what would you say is your favorite and why?
AB: No can do. Each occupies a special place in my heart and my mind for different reasons. Erotique, for example, is dear to me because it was the first story I wrote which required extensive research. The lead story in fine flickering hungers, entitled "Wetter Has Never Been Better," is significant because it was inspired by an awesome trip to Costa Rica. The same can be said of each story and poem. They're all my children (and I tell each it's my favorite when the others aren't listening).
W: Do you have any appearances or upcoming events that you'd like to share?
AB: Yup! The day after tomorrow (which is probably well before this interview will be published), I'm having my first book signing at an adult toy store in Milwaukee. That's November 12th at The Tool Shed. (Great name, huh?) Other than that, I'll just be around the 'Net promoting my current releases. I really want to be with my Phaze colleagues in Virginia Beach for "In the Pink" at The Pink Banana Boutique on the 19th of November … but I just can't swing it. *sigh*
W: Are you working on any books or projects that you'd like to share with us?
AB: I have two major projects in the works.
First, a contemporary erotic novel entitled Snatch. It's a story of rape and retribution.
Second, Zane. It's the novel I'm working on as part of NaNo - that's National Novel Writing Month. (See www.NaNoWriMo.org for details.) Zane is set on the frontier during the American Revolutionary War (another research-intensive project) and involves a love triangle between Betty Zane, her brother Isaac, and Wyandot princess Myeerah. Historical fiction is new territory for me, so I'm enjoying the challenge of creating a fictional story, which still fits the historical record.
I'll probably also write something for the next Phaze HeatSheet contest - Snugglers - this winter.
W: What plans do you have for the future?
AB: More writing, of course. Hopefully, you'll be reading it!
Wendi, Interviewer
Erotic Romance Reviews for Women
Secret Pleasures
I'm thrilled to be featured in the debut issue of Secret Pleasures eZine:
1. How long have you been writing?
Well, I could be a smart ass and say I’ve been writing since I was 7 years old (which is true), but I’m guessing you want to know how long I’ve been writing erotic fiction. I penned my first short story in the late summer of 2003. (Until that time, my writing had been exclusively non-fiction: essays and editorials involving various civil rights issues.) A year later, I wrote my first poem.
2. Tell us a little about your road to publication.
I almost wish I had an angst-ridden tale to tell – an office wallpapered with rejection letters or some such – but it was really quite painless. Last spring, a bunch of my author pals from Literotica decided to self-publish a print anthology to benefit charity. One of my roles in the project was (is) to paste the stories, poems, and illustrations chosen into manuscript format. Since I already had the file format all set up for Coming Together, I figured, “Why not?” I compiled a manuscript of my own work, submitted it to Phaze, and promptly forgot about it. Two months later, I had a contract.
3. You also write poetry. How do you balance poetry and fiction in your work?
One of the things I’ve discovered as I attempt to write longer and longer stories is that I write fiction with a poetic voice … which typically results in very concise, powerful prose. Every word is weighed for its emotional impact, and that tends to slow me down. I prefer to think that it’s quality over quantity, but that’s for the readers to decide.
4. Can you give us a sneak peek from your latest release?
My latest release is actually my very first release: Erotique, a Phaze HeatSheet Shiver, was released on October 24th. An excerpt is available on my blog at http://alessiabrio.blogspot.com as well as via the Phaze site by clicking on the Erotique cover. It’s been very well received. Here’s the blurb:
“Mandy stands to inherit the family legacy – a famous Philadelphia adult toy store and museum called Erotique – but she first has to meet the terms of the will and spend the night. With the help of her best friend, Bruce, she soon discovers the exhibits are VERY educational and her feelings for Bruce run deeper than she realized.”
5. What do you have coming up? Any works in progress you’d like to tell us about?
My first full-length work will be released by Phaze in the very near future, perhaps even before this interview is published. It’s a single-author anthology entitled fine flickering hungers and is a collection of eight short stories and six poems. I’m very excited about it.
I have several works in progress, including a contemporary novel called Snatch. Plus, I’m currently participating in National Novel Writing Month with a historical erotic fiction story entitled Zane – set on the frontier near the end of the Revolutionary War.
We’ll also release the fourth edition of Coming Together in December.
6. You have a beautiful chocolate covered cherry logo on your blog. What’s the story behind that particular image?
I have long found chocolate-covered cherries very erotic. Something about the sweet, innocent-looking shell and the succulent, creamy center just stimulates all of my senses. I tape the image to my computer monitor when I’m writing a sex scene. It’s verrrrrrrrrrry “inspirational” … so much so that I included the candy in one of my stories – the final story in fine flickering hungers.
7. Share one of your secret pleasures with us.
But then it wouldn’t be a secret any more! *grin* Writing erotica IS my “secret” pleasure since very few people who know me are even aware I do it. So, you just never know when the soccer mom standing next to you might be choreographing a hot ménage scene in her mind … maybe even one involving chocolate-covered cherries. ;)
1. How long have you been writing?
Well, I could be a smart ass and say I’ve been writing since I was 7 years old (which is true), but I’m guessing you want to know how long I’ve been writing erotic fiction. I penned my first short story in the late summer of 2003. (Until that time, my writing had been exclusively non-fiction: essays and editorials involving various civil rights issues.) A year later, I wrote my first poem.
2. Tell us a little about your road to publication.
I almost wish I had an angst-ridden tale to tell – an office wallpapered with rejection letters or some such – but it was really quite painless. Last spring, a bunch of my author pals from Literotica decided to self-publish a print anthology to benefit charity. One of my roles in the project was (is) to paste the stories, poems, and illustrations chosen into manuscript format. Since I already had the file format all set up for Coming Together, I figured, “Why not?” I compiled a manuscript of my own work, submitted it to Phaze, and promptly forgot about it. Two months later, I had a contract.
3. You also write poetry. How do you balance poetry and fiction in your work?
One of the things I’ve discovered as I attempt to write longer and longer stories is that I write fiction with a poetic voice … which typically results in very concise, powerful prose. Every word is weighed for its emotional impact, and that tends to slow me down. I prefer to think that it’s quality over quantity, but that’s for the readers to decide.
4. Can you give us a sneak peek from your latest release?
My latest release is actually my very first release: Erotique, a Phaze HeatSheet Shiver, was released on October 24th. An excerpt is available on my blog at http://alessiabrio.blogspot.com as well as via the Phaze site by clicking on the Erotique cover. It’s been very well received. Here’s the blurb:
“Mandy stands to inherit the family legacy – a famous Philadelphia adult toy store and museum called Erotique – but she first has to meet the terms of the will and spend the night. With the help of her best friend, Bruce, she soon discovers the exhibits are VERY educational and her feelings for Bruce run deeper than she realized.”
5. What do you have coming up? Any works in progress you’d like to tell us about?
My first full-length work will be released by Phaze in the very near future, perhaps even before this interview is published. It’s a single-author anthology entitled fine flickering hungers and is a collection of eight short stories and six poems. I’m very excited about it.
I have several works in progress, including a contemporary novel called Snatch. Plus, I’m currently participating in National Novel Writing Month with a historical erotic fiction story entitled Zane – set on the frontier near the end of the Revolutionary War.
We’ll also release the fourth edition of Coming Together in December.
6. You have a beautiful chocolate covered cherry logo on your blog. What’s the story behind that particular image?
I have long found chocolate-covered cherries very erotic. Something about the sweet, innocent-looking shell and the succulent, creamy center just stimulates all of my senses. I tape the image to my computer monitor when I’m writing a sex scene. It’s verrrrrrrrrrry “inspirational” … so much so that I included the candy in one of my stories – the final story in fine flickering hungers.
7. Share one of your secret pleasures with us.
But then it wouldn’t be a secret any more! *grin* Writing erotica IS my “secret” pleasure since very few people who know me are even aware I do it. So, you just never know when the soccer mom standing next to you might be choreographing a hot ménage scene in her mind … maybe even one involving chocolate-covered cherries. ;)
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Monday, November 07, 2005
JERR Interview
Phaze Multi Author Interview
by Just Erotic Romance Reviews
Can you tell us briefly about yourself for our readers?
What do you find sexy in a man?
by Just Erotic Romance Reviews
Can you tell us briefly about yourself for our readers?
I am the new kid on the block. I could tell you I’ve aspired to be published since I was a child, but that’d be lying. (I really wanted to be an architect.) In truth, I was bitten by the fiction-writing bug just a couple years ago – and poetry shortly thereafter. Until that time, my writing centered on OpEds and essays dealing with civil rights. I derive a great deal of personal satisfaction from my fiction, my non-fiction, and my poetry. The fact that others also enjoy them is icing on my cake. And now, as added incentive, I’m going to be PAID to do it! Well, it just doesn’t get any better than that.What attracted you to writing erotic romance?
The emotional dynamic, the intensity, and (of course) the sex. It’s something we ALL have in common and, as a result, something with the potential to either unite or divide us. There is far too much divisiveness in the world today, so I like to think my erotica is a force for good. If my work is entertaining, I’ve taken the readers away from their problems and frustrations – if only for a short while.Who or what has been a major influence on your writing?
I grew up on a predominantly SciFi/Fantasy diet (Heinlein, Asimov, Herbert, Tolkien, McCaffrey, Anthony, Auel) along with a smattering of horror (King, Straub, Rice). That said, I don’t think my style mirrors any of those authors.What do you love about being a writer?
The freedom. The freedom to express myself without fear. The freedom to be my own boss. The freedom to explore sexual frontiers.Do you have a favorite genre for writing and reading, and what are they? Is there a particular genre you’d like to explore in the future?
For writing, erotica is definitely my preference – although I write a mean OpEd, if I do say so myself. For reading, SciFi/Fantasy. I love multi-volume series (like McCaffrey’s or Herbert’s) which reflect broad socio-political dynamics.You must feel privileged being published with such a young and dynamic e-publisher. How did you feel when your first story was accepted by Phaze?
I am thrilled to be a part of the Phaze family. However, Phaze is not just an e-publisher. It also has works in print. That was a major factor in my decision to submit my work to Phaze.How has the opportunity to be published with Phaze turned into a positive experience? How has writing for Phaze given you more opportunities to broaden your writing skills?
Phaze was my first choice of publisher. I’ve not submitted elsewhere – and don’t foresee doing so. It’d rather focus my time and energy making myself a success with Phaze – and, in so doing, helping Phaze succeed as well.The Shivers series is unique. Have you participated in any other such writing project?
Erotique was my first attempt at paranormal erotic romance – and I’m not sure I’d’ve attempted it without the push provided by the Shivers contest.
I have participated in several themed contests on Literotica under a different pseudonym. That is where I got my feet wet, so to speak, writing erotica. The Author’s Hangout (forum) is a wonderfully diverse environment with very talented denizens. I am certain I’d not be in this position today without their support and encouragement.How did you feel about having your story selected for the Shivers series that was published recently?
Humbled. I read two of the entries which were not selected, and I know they were also top notch work. I love the opportunity to have a short work available as a taste of my style in advance of the release of fine flickering hungers, my single-author anthology (also from Phaze) which will be released later this year.Can you tell us briefly about your story contribution to the Phaze Shivers series?
Erotique is the story of an independent young woman who is too busy to allow herself the luxury of romance. The premature passing of her benefactor forces her to assume the management of the renowned sex toy shop and museum years before she’d expected – and, in due course, also forces her latent feelings for her best friend to the surface. Of course, the “educational” museum exhibits add some serious spice to the story.Do you have any plans to expand on your story into another book for your secondary characters?
Hmm. There are no secondary characters in Erotique. However, I can envision a sequel in the same setting with the same characters or, perhaps, even the next generation. It’s not high on my ‘to do’ list, though. NaNo’s next.Do you have any other upcoming projects or book releases? Do you want to tell us briefly about them?
Oh, great segue! Yeah, I’ll be participating in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writer’s Month) in November – a first for me. My novel is called Zane – a historical erotic romance set on the American frontier circa 1780 – and will involve a love triangle between Betty Zane, her brother Isaac, and Wyandot princess Myeerah.Now for the fun questions.
In addition, my first full-length work will soon be published (also by Phaze). It’s called fine flickering hungers and is a compilation of 8 erotic short stories and 6 poems.
Lastly, I’ll be having my first book signing at The Tool Shed, a sex toy shop, in Milwaukee on November 12th!
What do you find sexy in a man?
Wit, integrity, intelligence, altruism, and a huge … smile. That’s true for all people … not just men. To me, the mind is the sexiest part of the body.Do you have a favorite sex toy?
Absolutely. Oh, you want more? Toys figure prominently in several of my stories. In order to ensure believability and accuracy, I must do extensive “research.” I have come to the conclusion that writing erotica is the most “satisfying” job in the world.What is your favorite cuss word?
Cuss? Ladies don’t cuss! I, however, am not a lady. *grin* I believe ‘fuck’ is the most versatile word in the English language – and I like versatility.
Saturday, November 05, 2005
Speechless
Okay, I'm not really SPEECHLESS ... but I my heart's racing and I have that same giddy feeling I had when I received the e-mail with news of fine flickering hungers' acceptance for publication. Isn't this cover absolutely awesome?
Slurrrrrrrrrrrrrrp
I'm eating up these delicious Erotique reviews with a spoon!
From Romance Reviews Today (Terrie Figueroa):
When her Aunt Viv dies unexpectedly, Mandy finds her plans for graduate school put on hold so that she can fulfill the stipulations of her aunt’s will to inherit the sex shop and museum that’s been in her family for generations. Mandy runs the shop per her aunt’s stipulations for the prescribed period, and while there, learns that even sex toys have a story to tell.
Will the haunted objects in the museum lure Mandy to her demise? And what will happen when Bruce, her best-friend gets in on some of the action? A tale of sexuality and lust, EROTIQUE takes Mandy and her best friend Bruce on a erotic adventure they never expected and which they might not survive. EROTIQUE is as hot and erotic as its title implies.
From author Lisa Bradley (5 of 5 stars):
"Alessia Brio’s ‘Erotique’ is one of the most finely crafted short stories I’ve read in a long time. Clever phrasing and witty dialogue keep the pace moving through this fascinating and sexy story involving historical and sometimes ancient sex toys. It is obviously superbly well researched, and the author has a real knack for description that brings every object and experience to life. An intriguing and sizzling hot read! I cannot recommend this story, and this author, highly enough, and look forward to whatever Ms. Brio has in store for us next!"
From author Selah March:
"Alessia's ability to blend humor with edgy sexual experimentation, likeable characters and truly fascinating research is something to behold. I was riveted. Made me forget to eat breakfast -- and that NEVER happens. ;-)"
From Victoria Skezas (5 of 5 stars):
"With a light and humorous touch, Brio combines hot action, creepy atmosphere and fascinating history. A quick, fulfilling read."
From TCM Reviews (Robyn Ashford):
"Ancient sex toys haunted by users long gone. Mandy inherits the family business, Erotique. In order to inherit the business, she must stay overnight in the shop. This sounds easy, that is until Mandy realizes that some of collectables at the shop come with rather overwhelming experiences.
"A great original and clever take on the stereotypical you have to stay in the place overnight to inherit the property horror theme. No horror here though and she never does have to actually stay the night alone. Mandy and her boyfriend Bruce do have some stimulating and arousing experiences though as they take stock of the shop’s special exhibits."
From Romance Reviews Today (Terrie Figueroa):
When her Aunt Viv dies unexpectedly, Mandy finds her plans for graduate school put on hold so that she can fulfill the stipulations of her aunt’s will to inherit the sex shop and museum that’s been in her family for generations. Mandy runs the shop per her aunt’s stipulations for the prescribed period, and while there, learns that even sex toys have a story to tell.
Will the haunted objects in the museum lure Mandy to her demise? And what will happen when Bruce, her best-friend gets in on some of the action? A tale of sexuality and lust, EROTIQUE takes Mandy and her best friend Bruce on a erotic adventure they never expected and which they might not survive. EROTIQUE is as hot and erotic as its title implies.
From author Lisa Bradley (5 of 5 stars):
"Alessia Brio’s ‘Erotique’ is one of the most finely crafted short stories I’ve read in a long time. Clever phrasing and witty dialogue keep the pace moving through this fascinating and sexy story involving historical and sometimes ancient sex toys. It is obviously superbly well researched, and the author has a real knack for description that brings every object and experience to life. An intriguing and sizzling hot read! I cannot recommend this story, and this author, highly enough, and look forward to whatever Ms. Brio has in store for us next!"
From author Selah March:
"Alessia's ability to blend humor with edgy sexual experimentation, likeable characters and truly fascinating research is something to behold. I was riveted. Made me forget to eat breakfast -- and that NEVER happens. ;-)"
From Victoria Skezas (5 of 5 stars):
"With a light and humorous touch, Brio combines hot action, creepy atmosphere and fascinating history. A quick, fulfilling read."
From TCM Reviews (Robyn Ashford):
"Ancient sex toys haunted by users long gone. Mandy inherits the family business, Erotique. In order to inherit the business, she must stay overnight in the shop. This sounds easy, that is until Mandy realizes that some of collectables at the shop come with rather overwhelming experiences.
"A great original and clever take on the stereotypical you have to stay in the place overnight to inherit the property horror theme. No horror here though and she never does have to actually stay the night alone. Mandy and her boyfriend Bruce do have some stimulating and arousing experiences though as they take stock of the shop’s special exhibits."
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
On your mark ... Get set ...
NaNo!
And they're off! Thousands of writers ... myself included ... are engaged in a race against time. The goal: pen a (minimum) 50,000 word novel in November. Not a word is to be written prior, although research and outlines are permissible.
My novel is entitled Zane. Set on the American frontier circa 1780, it is the story of a love triangle between Betty Zane, her brother Isaac, and Wyandot princess Myeerah.
I'm not a fast writer 'cause I edit on the fly, so wish me luck!
And they're off! Thousands of writers ... myself included ... are engaged in a race against time. The goal: pen a (minimum) 50,000 word novel in November. Not a word is to be written prior, although research and outlines are permissible.
My novel is entitled Zane. Set on the American frontier circa 1780, it is the story of a love triangle between Betty Zane, her brother Isaac, and Wyandot princess Myeerah.
I'm not a fast writer 'cause I edit on the fly, so wish me luck!
Monday, October 31, 2005
Threesome
Okay, I've been tagged for a meme challenge. Not my typical blogging style, but I can make an exception. (I'll be fighting to overcome that "Does not play well with others" statement from my 1st grade report card for the rest of my life.) Here goes ...
- Three things you like about yourself:
my mind, my body, my spirit - Three things you don't like about yourself:
my vulnerability, my hubris, my desire - Three parts of your heritage:
Italian, Croatian, and obsessive-compulsive - Three things that scare you:
rejection, conformity, and spiders - Three of your everyday essentials:
oxygen, water, and my best friend - Three things you are wearing right now:
rings, earrings, and a smile - Three of your favorite songs:
"Absence of Fear" (Jewel)
"Yes, I Am" (Melissa Etheridge)
"Music of the Night" (from Phantom) - Three things you want in a relationship:
integrity, humor, and awesome sex - Two truths and a lie:
God is omnipotent.
God is omniscient.
God is benevolent. - Three things you can't live without:
See 3 everyday essentials (above) - Three places you want to go on vacation:
Secluded mountain cabin
Private tropical island
Anywhere NOT tourist-y - Three things you just can't do:
Walk on water
Fly
Admit defeat - Three kids names:
Entropy, Chaos, Enigma - Three things you want to do before you die:
Eliminate bigotry
Eliminate hunger
Eliminate war - Three celeb crushes:
Angelina, Orlando, Keanu - Three of your favorite musicians:
Indigo Girls (Amy Ray & Emily Saliers) and Melissa Etheridge - Three physical things about the opposite sex that appeal to you:
Eyes, smile, hands - Three of your favorite hobbies:
Genealogy, sewing, masturbation
(not necessarily in that order) - Three things you really want to do badly right now:
I don't do ANYTHING badly. - Three careers you're considering/you've considered:
Attorney, architect, psychologist - Three ways that you are stereotypically a boy:
I pee standing up.
I have morning wood.
I think I'm funny. - Three ways that you are stereotypically a girl:
I'm modest.
I'm sweet.
I'm delusional. - Three people that I would like to see post this meme:
Angelina, Orlando, Keanu
Monday, October 24, 2005
Only $0.00033 per word
It's official: I'm published. C'mon! You know you wanna read it. It's fun and sexy and a little scary and chock full o' vintage sex toys. (Catch an excerpt HERE.)
Erotique ... an erotic eBook download from Phaze.
Just $2 ... TWO DOLLARS ... 200 pennies ... 20 dimes.
Check out the great reviews & then BUY IT!
When you're finished reading, stop on by the Phaze Starlight Lounge and let me know what you thought of it. Sign the Guestbook in my Author Niche and be eligible to win a free download of my single-author anthology, fine flickering hungers, which will be released later this year.
Thanks!
Erotique ... an erotic eBook download from Phaze.
Just $2 ... TWO DOLLARS ... 200 pennies ... 20 dimes.
Check out the great reviews & then BUY IT!
When you're finished reading, stop on by the Phaze Starlight Lounge and let me know what you thought of it. Sign the Guestbook in my Author Niche and be eligible to win a free download of my single-author anthology, fine flickering hungers, which will be released later this year.
Thanks!
JERR
From the Just Erotic Romance Reviews site today:
The six long-awaited Phaze HeatSheet Shivers will be released during the week of October 24th. To read an excerpt of Erotique, click HERE.
Congratulations to shelly who won a free download of Erotique by simply making a post to the Guestbook (thread) on my author niche at the Phaze Starlight Lounge.
~ 
~ 
Coming soon . . . .
We're excited to announce the Phaze publisher spotlight we're featuring in our November 6th issue. Phaze is a relatively new e-publisher and have made huge inroads into the erotic romance market in their first year of operation. They're about to celebrate this anniversary in November and to help mark this event they're releasing another set of steamy and delicious books for readers to enjoy, their Shivers series.
Included amongst their great selection of erotic romances you'll find books in a variety of sub genres such as fantasy, paranormal, futuristic, ménage and contemporary. Their HeatSheet Shivers series offers such a variety of stories for readers of all tastes and they go on sale this week. These thrilling and erotic short stories will keep you on the edge of your seat and delight you. Beware to read them with someone close by!
The contributing authors include Selah March, Alessia Brio, Ava McKnight, Emily Veinglory, Adrianna Dane and Leigh Ellwood. We'll be interviewing Emily Veinglory, Selah March and Alessia Brio. Readers can discover a little more about these wonderfully talented authors and a little more behind their upcoming novels.
Phaze is also the first e-book publisher featured in the Playgirl magazine in their December 2005 issue! This is a huge achievement for a young company and we can't wait to read more about them.
Join us for our 62nd issue with reviews galore, a special article from Phaze and an interesting interview. We also have an incredibly tempting selection of prizes to give away to lucky winners. So come and join in the fun and see what we have in store for you this month....
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Countdown
The six long-awaited Phaze HeatSheet Shivers will be released during the week of October 24th. To read an excerpt of Erotique, click HERE.
Congratulations to shelly who won a free download of Erotique by simply making a post to the Guestbook (thread) on my author niche at the Phaze Starlight Lounge.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Book Signing Press Release
On Saturday, November 12, 2005, I'll be having a book signing at an adult toy store in Milwaukee called The Tool Shed. The press release is posted below.
Click on the image to enlarge:
Click on the image to enlarge:
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Phaze on TRS Blue
Phaze
www.phaze.com
At Phaze, you'll find some of the hottest, sexiest, funniest books ever to hit the romance market. Readers and writers alike have discovered the fun and friendly atmosphere, outstanding author support, and red-hot reads of this fast-growing publisher of romantic and women's erotica.
Hot Thrills! Erotic Chills! Edge-of-your-bed action!
Phaze HeatSheet Shivers
Coming October 24 to the Phaze Store.
~ 
~ 
An Interview with Phaze
By Holly Hewson Marketing Director for The Romance Studio
HH: Thank you for joining us at TRS BLUE, Stacey. What can you tell us about Phaze? When did you open for business?
P: Very simply, Phaze is an honest, fun company dedicated to orgasmic fiction. We select books based on the quality of writing, heat level, and entertainment value. We welcome first-time authors as well as seasoned pros, and everyone in between.
Publisher and web geek Stacey L. King is an EPPIE Finalist author (2003), as well as a best-selling erotica author. She's also a multiple award-winning cover artist who has been in the publishing industry since 1999.
Our site features a custom-built store hosted on our secure server with our own secure certificate. All programming and maintenance is done in-house, and ebook purchases are available to customers immediately.
Phaze is an imprint of Mundania Press, which sports such authors as Piers Anthony, Elaine Corvidae, Jeff Strand, Don Callander, Anne Logston, Robert Adams, and Louise Cooper.
We began accepting submissions a little more than a year ago (in August 2004), and our first books were released in December 2004. We started essentially from scratch, and have grown to nearly 40 authors with more than 50 contracted works.
HH: What types of books does Phaze have to offer readers?
P: We offer Romantic Erotica and Women's erotica in a variety of genres and in a variety of lengths, all at great prices.
HH: What exciting things do you have planned for the upcoming year?
P: This month, we will be releasing our much-anticipated Shivers--six scary short stories to tickle the treats.
Next month, on the weekend of November 18-20, Phaze will be in Virginia Beach, VA, hosting a mini-con and booksigning for area Phaze authors! Readers in the area can find nine of our authors at The Pink Banana on Saturday, November 19th from noon to six. A portion of all book proceeds will benefit a leading breast cancer research foundation.
Beyond that, we have lots of good stuff in the works, so check our website often!
~ 
~ 
HH: What advice would you give to any aspiring author who is thinking of submitting their work to you?
P: Phaze encourages all authors, aspiring or published, who are thinking of submitting their work to Phaze, to check out our Author Prospectus, available in PDF format on our website (Direct link: http://www.phaze.com/AuthorProspectus.pdf) We also encourage anyone curious about Phaze to join us for one of our monthly chats, come hang out with us on our discussion list or in our forum, the Phaze Starlight Lounge (Direct link: http://www.phaze.com/forum/). Feel free to talk to our authors, ask questions, get a feel for who we are and what we expect.
HH: Can you tell us what genre/s you are looking for and can you give us your guidelines for all book lengths?
P: Phaze is always on the look-out for outstanding erotic romance and women's erotica/erotic chic lit. We consider all subgenres, such as science fiction, contemporary, suspense, vampire, interracial, etc. Our only pseudo-requirement is that we prefer to have at least one male as part of the core 'romantic unit.' We love for authors to explore new territory and break new ground in their writing.
What We Look For:
- Strong, passionate, intelligent characters
- Intense sensual tension and situations
- Well-defined, well-executed romantic plot that illustrates the mutual relationship between two to four central characters (the romantic unit) and which includes plenty of opportunity for erotic exploration and variety.
- Conflict to create the tension and move the plot
- Expressive language that is explicit, yet appropriate to the story
- HeatSheet: 5,000 - 12,000 words (short stories)
- Photon: 12,000 - 30,000 words (novella)
- Comet: 30,000 - 60,000 words (category)
- Eclipse: 60,000 - 90,000 words (novel)
HH: In what formats are Phaze books available to readers?
P: All Phaze titles are available in five electronic formats: Adobe Reader (PDF), Microsoft Reader (LIT), Rocket/Gemstar (RB), Mobipocket (PRC), and HTML. Some titles are also available in paperback.
~ ~ HH: Can you tell us what a typical day is like for you at Phaze?
P: I'm not sure there IS a typical day at Phaze! The staff hits the ground running every morning, doing our best to make Phaze as efficient, friendly, and profitable as possible. Whatever needs to be done to achieve that goal, we do it.
HH: What sort of promotion do you ask your authors to do?
P: Phaze has a fabulous Promotion Goddess, Crystal, who works very hard to obtain reviews, interviews, features, etc., for each of our authors. We, in turn, expect each author to follow her lead and continue to promote themselves and their books.
To facilitate this, Phaze provides all our authors with ideas, tools, and goodies to use in their promotion efforts. Phaze authors may host chats on our our chat system, host author days on our discussion list, host parties and contests in our Starlight Lounge forum, and a wealth of other opportunities.
HH: Do you have a newsletter or group where readers can find out all the latest on Phaze?
P: The Phaze Announcements Newsletter can be found at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/phaze-announcements/
The Phaze Discussion List may be found at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/phaze/
We also have our own forum where readers can connect directly with authors http://www.phaze.com/forum/.
HH: What can fans look forward to from Phaze?
P: Fans can look forward to more hot books at great prices, from new authors and old favorites.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Erotique
Erotique, by Alessia Brio
ISBN 1-59426-548-8
October 2005
Mandy stands to inherit the family legacy – a famous Philadelphia adult toy store and museum called Erotique – but she first has to meet the terms of the will and spend the night. With the help of her best friend, Bruce, she soon discovers the exhibits are VERY educational and her feelings for Bruce run deeper than she realized.
Here's an excerpt:
“Welcome to Erotique,” Mandy greeted each customer at the door. “Enjoy your visit, and please let me know if you have any questions.” Her lingering fears about Vivian’s death adversely affecting business were laid to rest as the day progressed. A steady stream of women and men from all walks of life flowed through the shop from noon until she wearily flipped off the neon sign at midnight. She thanked the staff and shooed them out the door with firm instructions to get some well-deserved rest. Collapsing onto the sofa in the back office, she punched Bruce’s number on her cell phone.
“Hello, Wong?” she said when he finally answered. “I’d like two orders of kung po chicken and a six pack of Tsingtao delivered to Erotique. Big tip for prompt service.”
“Do you realize what time it is?” Bruce asked sleepily.
“Wuss! Get your ass over here. I need help restocking the store, and I’m starving. We were swamped all day. I haven’t eaten since breakfast, and that was just toast.”
“M’kay, but you owe me big time. Be there in thirty.”
Mandy moved around the shop, tidying the displays and taking mental inventory. She passed through the retail section and into the annex, which seemed so airy and spacious without the throng of patrons. Stars sparkled through the many sky lights. During the day, the sunlight effectively vanquished the hovering seediness that threatened to overrun anything sexual. Erotique would never allow something as natural and as pleasing as sex to be buried by dogma. The large placard on the wall above the cash register featured a quote by the famous neuropsychologist James W. Prescott: “Deprivation of physical affection in human relationships constitutes the single greatest source of violence in human societies.”
A Post-Gazette reporter who visited earlier spent a considerable amount of time browsing the exhibits and left with the promise of a glowing review, and it wouldn’t be the first. Vivian had built the fascinating collection from scratch over the last two decades, beginning with an odd-looking replica of the first known cock ring, circa 1200, crafted from a goat’s eyelids with the eyelashes still attached. From that point on, her vacations always centered around the search for more such “erotiques.”
She’d renamed the business when the museum opened in 1995, and it quickly became a tourist attraction. Half price admission with a minimum purchase in the shop certainly didn’t hurt sales, either. Customers spent hours in the museum, mesmerized by the eclectic artifacts, and often added to their earlier purchases before departing. The modern products sold well before the museum tour; the reproductions, after. Nothing was done to either squelch or fuel the rumors which occasionally surfaced about the annex being haunted. They simply added to the Erotique mystique.
A neighborhood coffee shop was contracted in 1998 to maintain a small refreshment area when one patron who’d spent the entire afternoon staring at a carved whalebone dildo collapsed. That soon grew into a café named Appetites with its own street entrance and a balcony overlooking the museum floor. The menu featured desserts with catchy names dripping with sexual innuendo. Folks traveled from all over the city for a creaming tart and stayed for a chassé through the annex.
The stringed music of “La Traviata” filled her mind and the seductively sweet aroma of oleander enveloped her. She gathered the heavy silks of her train and, with a surreptitious glance in either direction, stepped off the asphalt path into the shrubbery. He was there, waiting, and took her immediately into his arms.
“Were you observed?”
“Nein,” she whispered in a tongue never before spoken. “Bitte.”
He growled into her neck, a sinister sound that resonated between her legs. “Turn around and lift your skirts,” he said as he pulled the long metal phallus from his overcoat and spat upon it. “Quickly now.”
* * *
ISBN 1-59426-548-8
October 2005
Mandy stands to inherit the family legacy – a famous Philadelphia adult toy store and museum called Erotique – but she first has to meet the terms of the will and spend the night. With the help of her best friend, Bruce, she soon discovers the exhibits are VERY educational and her feelings for Bruce run deeper than she realized.
Here's an excerpt:
“Welcome to Erotique,” Mandy greeted each customer at the door. “Enjoy your visit, and please let me know if you have any questions.” Her lingering fears about Vivian’s death adversely affecting business were laid to rest as the day progressed. A steady stream of women and men from all walks of life flowed through the shop from noon until she wearily flipped off the neon sign at midnight. She thanked the staff and shooed them out the door with firm instructions to get some well-deserved rest. Collapsing onto the sofa in the back office, she punched Bruce’s number on her cell phone.
“Hello, Wong?” she said when he finally answered. “I’d like two orders of kung po chicken and a six pack of Tsingtao delivered to Erotique. Big tip for prompt service.”
“Do you realize what time it is?” Bruce asked sleepily.
“Wuss! Get your ass over here. I need help restocking the store, and I’m starving. We were swamped all day. I haven’t eaten since breakfast, and that was just toast.”
“M’kay, but you owe me big time. Be there in thirty.”
Mandy moved around the shop, tidying the displays and taking mental inventory. She passed through the retail section and into the annex, which seemed so airy and spacious without the throng of patrons. Stars sparkled through the many sky lights. During the day, the sunlight effectively vanquished the hovering seediness that threatened to overrun anything sexual. Erotique would never allow something as natural and as pleasing as sex to be buried by dogma. The large placard on the wall above the cash register featured a quote by the famous neuropsychologist James W. Prescott: “Deprivation of physical affection in human relationships constitutes the single greatest source of violence in human societies.”
A Post-Gazette reporter who visited earlier spent a considerable amount of time browsing the exhibits and left with the promise of a glowing review, and it wouldn’t be the first. Vivian had built the fascinating collection from scratch over the last two decades, beginning with an odd-looking replica of the first known cock ring, circa 1200, crafted from a goat’s eyelids with the eyelashes still attached. From that point on, her vacations always centered around the search for more such “erotiques.”
She’d renamed the business when the museum opened in 1995, and it quickly became a tourist attraction. Half price admission with a minimum purchase in the shop certainly didn’t hurt sales, either. Customers spent hours in the museum, mesmerized by the eclectic artifacts, and often added to their earlier purchases before departing. The modern products sold well before the museum tour; the reproductions, after. Nothing was done to either squelch or fuel the rumors which occasionally surfaced about the annex being haunted. They simply added to the Erotique mystique.
A neighborhood coffee shop was contracted in 1998 to maintain a small refreshment area when one patron who’d spent the entire afternoon staring at a carved whalebone dildo collapsed. That soon grew into a café named Appetites with its own street entrance and a balcony overlooking the museum floor. The menu featured desserts with catchy names dripping with sexual innuendo. Folks traveled from all over the city for a creaming tart and stayed for a chassé through the annex.
The stringed music of “La Traviata” filled her mind and the seductively sweet aroma of oleander enveloped her. She gathered the heavy silks of her train and, with a surreptitious glance in either direction, stepped off the asphalt path into the shrubbery. He was there, waiting, and took her immediately into his arms.
“Were you observed?”
“Nein,” she whispered in a tongue never before spoken. “Bitte.”
He growled into her neck, a sinister sound that resonated between her legs. “Turn around and lift your skirts,” he said as he pulled the long metal phallus from his overcoat and spat upon it. “Quickly now.”
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Shivers
Yesterday, the six Phaze Shivers were announced. I'm absolutely thrilled that Erotique was one of them! Stay tuned for release details, and please visit my author niche in the Phaze Starlight Lounge for an excerpt.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Selling Myself
I've been working on a logo/trademark ... an "author identity" ... for business cards and other promotional materials. What do you think of this draft business card (front)?
Below is a front/back draft for bookmarks. (Click on the images for a larger view.) Let me know what you think!
P.S. You can hear me read the poem (entitled "Someone") on the bookmark here.
Below is a front/back draft for bookmarks. (Click on the images for a larger view.) Let me know what you think!
P.S. You can hear me read the poem (entitled "Someone") on the bookmark here.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Friday, September 02, 2005
If you can spare ANYTHING ...
Please help the victims of Hurricane Katrina by donating to the Red Cross:
Some businesses (such as Lowe's) are matching donations to make your dollars go even further. Check with your employer, as well.
Thank you!
Peace,
~ Alessia
Some businesses (such as Lowe's) are matching donations to make your dollars go even further. Check with your employer, as well.
Thank you!
Peace,
~ Alessia
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Meet Peitro
Ever wonder how the rain forest gets so steamy? Here's another excerpt from "Wetter Has Never Been Better."
* * *
Without speaking, Pietro backed Stormy against a tree and playfully bit her bottom lip. Her hands slid easily down the back of his shorts and grabbed his smooth, rock hard ass. Stormy’s mouth watered. If all of Pietro was as yummy as what she now had in her hands, she was in for a real treat.
Stormy nearly drooled as she removed his sweatshirt to discover well-sculpted pecs and abs. Not that muscle bound body builder stuff; just lean and defined and absolutely scrumptious. Pietro’s chest was as smooth and as hairless as his ass, and she hungrily explored his flawless caramel skin. Like a kid in a candy store -- not sure what to taste next! However, the past three hours of teasing and flirting left Stormy in no mood for mere appetizers. She wanted her main course. Now.
There were times, and this was one of them, when Stormy focused entirely on the giving. When this happened, she wanted nothing more than to thoroughly satisfy her partner. Oddly enough, it often made her feel selfish – as though she denied her lover the opportunity to please her – although it was never her intent to engender an obligation to reciprocate. She’d rather a lover simply accept her gift in the spirit with which it was given.
Switching places with Pietro, she put his back to the tree and pulled on the drawstring of his shorts, further loosening it. Stormy’s fingers trembled with anticipation as she began to unwrap her entree. She knelt, wanting to breathe the musky air that had enveloped him before it was released into the jungle.
That first deep breath, that inhalation of intimate scents, was intoxicating. It filled Stormy’s nostrils as her tongue reached, of its own accord, for the single glistening drop at the very end of Pietro’s rigid cock. Delicately, with something approaching reverence, Stormy traced the corona with the tip of her tongue and took just the glans into her mouth. Only then did she finish pushing his shorts down to his ankles, allowing her hands to slowly climb back up the inside of Pietro’s legs.
* * *
Without speaking, Pietro backed Stormy against a tree and playfully bit her bottom lip. Her hands slid easily down the back of his shorts and grabbed his smooth, rock hard ass. Stormy’s mouth watered. If all of Pietro was as yummy as what she now had in her hands, she was in for a real treat.
Stormy nearly drooled as she removed his sweatshirt to discover well-sculpted pecs and abs. Not that muscle bound body builder stuff; just lean and defined and absolutely scrumptious. Pietro’s chest was as smooth and as hairless as his ass, and she hungrily explored his flawless caramel skin. Like a kid in a candy store -- not sure what to taste next! However, the past three hours of teasing and flirting left Stormy in no mood for mere appetizers. She wanted her main course. Now.
There were times, and this was one of them, when Stormy focused entirely on the giving. When this happened, she wanted nothing more than to thoroughly satisfy her partner. Oddly enough, it often made her feel selfish – as though she denied her lover the opportunity to please her – although it was never her intent to engender an obligation to reciprocate. She’d rather a lover simply accept her gift in the spirit with which it was given.
Switching places with Pietro, she put his back to the tree and pulled on the drawstring of his shorts, further loosening it. Stormy’s fingers trembled with anticipation as she began to unwrap her entree. She knelt, wanting to breathe the musky air that had enveloped him before it was released into the jungle.
That first deep breath, that inhalation of intimate scents, was intoxicating. It filled Stormy’s nostrils as her tongue reached, of its own accord, for the single glistening drop at the very end of Pietro’s rigid cock. Delicately, with something approaching reverence, Stormy traced the corona with the tip of her tongue and took just the glans into her mouth. Only then did she finish pushing his shorts down to his ankles, allowing her hands to slowly climb back up the inside of Pietro’s legs.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Stormy's Coming
The following is an excerpt from the lead story in fine flickering hungers entitled "Wetter Has Never Been Better." Join Stormy as she discovers the delights of the Costa Rican rainy season!
* * *
Selecting the cinnamon massage oil, the attendant led Stormy to a small, secluded patio lit by four tiki torches. In the center was a padded table. At its end rested a small basket containing smooth flat stones from which steam rose as the rain struck it. He instructed her to remove her swimsuit, lie face down on the table, and drape the towel over her backside. Emptying the small bottle of oil over the stones, filling the air with its pungent aroma, he disappeared without another word.
Stormy quickly complied with his instructions and stretched out on the table. It was cool against her breasts and somewhat slippery. The rain itself felt like a percussive massage against her bare back – a multitude of pulsing, wet fingertips. Her hands, stretched above her head, hung over the edge of the table, as did her feet at the ankles. As she lay there, eagerly awaiting the massage, she fantasized that she was blindfolded and bound by silk scarves – at the mercy of a mysterious lover.
The rain baptized Stormy, fueling her fire rather than extinguishing it. It took a monumental effort not to writhe as her towel became soaked and rivulets of rain ran between her slightly parted legs, diluting her own plentiful fluids. If she moved, Stormy now believed, she would break the magnificently tormenting spell and her lover would not appear.
With her eyes closed, Stormy’s first indication that someone had arrived was the swish of soft fabric. She then became aware of a presence, moving slowly around the table like a predatory cat studying its prey. Stormy wanted to scream, “Touch me!” but she was completely immobilized by her own fantasy, unable to even open her eyes. Her nectar anointed the table between her legs.
A finger lightly traced the channel of her spine. A tongue teased the back of each thigh. Hands hovered, millimeters from her skin. She could feel their divine pressure, their heat. A single soft kiss on the nape of her neck left chills in its wake. Mystical. Magical.
Stormy fought to remain still, every second magnifying her ardor. She envisioned her dream lover: the one ever intent on their mutual satiety – attentive, sensual, exciting – the one knowing her every unspoken desire. “Come to me,” Stormy silently prayed. “Take me.”
“Estoy aquÃ,” whispered a familiar voice very close to her ear.
Stormy’s entire body shuddered involuntarily. Fingertips brushed her lips, which parted of their own will – yielding. There was no possible way she could resist.
“SÃ,” the voice urged. “Entregate.”
Released from her self-imposed restraints by the imperative, Stormy turned onto her side and melted into Mia’s silky kiss. It was simultaneously fresh and familiar, novel and known – a mesmerizing dichotomy. Unlike the playful romp with Shelly and Bruce, this was the fulfillment of a deep yearning that had possessed Stormy for the past several years: to know and be known with a depth of understanding that only another woman could possibly reach.
* * *
Selecting the cinnamon massage oil, the attendant led Stormy to a small, secluded patio lit by four tiki torches. In the center was a padded table. At its end rested a small basket containing smooth flat stones from which steam rose as the rain struck it. He instructed her to remove her swimsuit, lie face down on the table, and drape the towel over her backside. Emptying the small bottle of oil over the stones, filling the air with its pungent aroma, he disappeared without another word.
Stormy quickly complied with his instructions and stretched out on the table. It was cool against her breasts and somewhat slippery. The rain itself felt like a percussive massage against her bare back – a multitude of pulsing, wet fingertips. Her hands, stretched above her head, hung over the edge of the table, as did her feet at the ankles. As she lay there, eagerly awaiting the massage, she fantasized that she was blindfolded and bound by silk scarves – at the mercy of a mysterious lover.
The rain baptized Stormy, fueling her fire rather than extinguishing it. It took a monumental effort not to writhe as her towel became soaked and rivulets of rain ran between her slightly parted legs, diluting her own plentiful fluids. If she moved, Stormy now believed, she would break the magnificently tormenting spell and her lover would not appear.
With her eyes closed, Stormy’s first indication that someone had arrived was the swish of soft fabric. She then became aware of a presence, moving slowly around the table like a predatory cat studying its prey. Stormy wanted to scream, “Touch me!” but she was completely immobilized by her own fantasy, unable to even open her eyes. Her nectar anointed the table between her legs.
A finger lightly traced the channel of her spine. A tongue teased the back of each thigh. Hands hovered, millimeters from her skin. She could feel their divine pressure, their heat. A single soft kiss on the nape of her neck left chills in its wake. Mystical. Magical.
Stormy fought to remain still, every second magnifying her ardor. She envisioned her dream lover: the one ever intent on their mutual satiety – attentive, sensual, exciting – the one knowing her every unspoken desire. “Come to me,” Stormy silently prayed. “Take me.”
“Estoy aquÃ,” whispered a familiar voice very close to her ear.
Stormy’s entire body shuddered involuntarily. Fingertips brushed her lips, which parted of their own will – yielding. There was no possible way she could resist.
“SÃ,” the voice urged. “Entregate.”
Released from her self-imposed restraints by the imperative, Stormy turned onto her side and melted into Mia’s silky kiss. It was simultaneously fresh and familiar, novel and known – a mesmerizing dichotomy. Unlike the playful romp with Shelly and Bruce, this was the fulfillment of a deep yearning that had possessed Stormy for the past several years: to know and be known with a depth of understanding that only another woman could possibly reach.
Friday, July 29, 2005
Favorites
I just love Marge Piercy! The title of my book (fine flickering hungers) is taken from one of her poems (The Moon Is Always Female). Here's an excerpt from another fave:
I want you to love freely, I want
you to love richly and many
but I want your mouth to taste of me
and I want to walk in your dreams naked.
~ Marge Piercy (from Under red Aries)
you to love richly and many
but I want your mouth to taste of me
and I want to walk in your dreams naked.
~ Marge Piercy (from Under red Aries)
Friday, July 15, 2005
Just for fun!
This is a fun little piece I wrote a while back as part of a challenge (all dialogue, no tags): Conversation with a Muse©.
* * *
Ahoy, mate!
"Lemme guess. I'm a pirate today. Writing a new story?"
Aye.
"You sure mix it up, Ms. Brio."
Don't wanna get bored. It's MY imagination, after all. You up for it?
"Always – and all ways. You know that."
That's why I keep you around.
"Gee, and I thought it was my sharp wit and rakish good looks."
That, too. Not to mention your incredible mainmast.
"So, can I play in your poop deck today?"
You know that's not my thing.
"Can't blame a guy for trying. Okay, then how about some reverse cowgirl?"
Possibly, but you know it makes me feel like the busty figurehead on the prow of an old sailing ship – and the last time we broke the rungs on that chair.
"But I love watching your ass slam into me. And it was YOU who cracked those rungs. My feet were firmly planted on the deck."
A technicality, as it was your fault I was bracing myself on them in the first place.
"You were lovin' it. Don't even TRY to pretend otherwise. This 'old sailing
ship' can still give good plank."
Another reason I keep you around. If my ass is what you most want to see, I'd prefer doggie style.
"Works for me – but then your hands aren't free."
Are we gonna debate positions, or are we gonna fuck?
"Your fantasy, dear. You decide."
Of course. However, it'd be much more fun with an enthusiastic partner.
"Like you had yesterday?"
Do I detect a note of jealousy in your voice?
"No! Well, maybe. Okay, yes."
Let go of that right now. I will NOT have my muses competing with one another.
"You looked like you were having such an extraordinarily good time with her."
I was – just as I intend to do with you. Did you enjoy watching?
"Naturally. Did you enjoy being watched?"
I wasn't aware of it at the time, but I like the image of you standing there, cock in hand.
"It was."
Was what?
"In hand."
Show me.
"With pleasure, lass."
Lass? Oh, the pirate thing. I'd shifted gears already.
"Well, you should let a guy know."
Can't you read my mind? You're IN it, after all.
"Takes the fun out of it."
You can't be serious! Most guys would love to know what a woman is really thinking. You can do it and choose not to?
"Feels like cheating."
Ah, a man of principle. But of course, I'd conjure nothing less. Hey! You're left handed.
"No, I'm ambidextrous – or hadn't you noticed?"
Show me.
"Come closer, sugar. My fingers wanna do some walking."
Your mast is looking quite sturdy. Do you always stroke yourself so slowly?
"No. I'll pick up speed in a bit. I'd prefer a bit of something slippery to make it more enjoyable, though."
I think I can accommodate you, but you're gonna have to work for it.
"I'm up for the challenge, so to speak."
I've no doubt you'll succeed admirably. You have incredible hands and very agile fingers. That feels quite....
"Quite? Did you lose your voice, dear?"
Oh! Damn you. That's...
"That's what? Finish your sentences!"
... quite....
"You said that already. Having problems concentrating?"
You know what that does to me – that bowling ball thing.
"Of course. That's why I'm doing it. Switching hands, though."
I see what you mean – about having something slippery.
"And you're about as slippery as they come. No pun intended."
Not coming yet, but I will be if you keep doing... THAT.
"As will I, undoubtedly."
Does your right hand know what your left hand is doing?
"Are you kidding? My right hand is insanely jealous of my left hand – as are my cock and my tongue."
Well, we wouldn't want them to feel left out, now would we?
"I'll take that as in invitation!"
As intended.
"Which first?"
Take me right to the edge with your tongue, and then impale me on your cock as I'm coming.
"Sounds like a plan. I'll get right on it."
Spin around this way if you want me to tend your mast.
"Uh uh. Too distracting."
For whom?
"For me. I wanna be focused on your cunt, not on what you're doing to my cock."
Understood and... mmmm... appreciated.
"I love it when you shave here."
Feels nice, huh?
"Sure does. Tastes damned good, too."
I can barely keep from touching myself after a close shave. Damn, I love your tongue.
"And it loves you. How 'bout my lips?"
Ah, yes. Just a little... faster.
"Fingers?"
Rrrrrright... there. Just two. Yes!
"Other hand?"
Ass.
"With pleasure. Now, are your lovely tits feeling neglected?"
(pause)
"Alessia?"
Hmm?
"Your tits? Oh, never mind. I see you're... um... handling that for me."
It won't be long now. Still up for it?
"Just tell me when."
You'll know. Oh, d-damn.
"Wow! When did you get your nipple pierced?"
A couple weeks ago. It feels...
"I love it!"
... absolutely... incredible!
"It's been too long, lover. Your tits should never be away from my mouth for that long."
If you'll recall, we were in too much of a hurry the... Oh! Oh, yes! – last time to even bother getting my shirt off. Suck my clit. Yeah. Just... like... that.
"Your legs are shaking."
Now, lover. Fuck me now!
"Gladly."
*gasp*
"I'm not gonna last long. You're so... hot... inside!"
Thanks to you. Harder, p-please.
"Oh, that's.... Yeah. Oh, yeah."
Come with me, lover.
"Mmmmm. Yes!"
I... agree... completely.
"I love it when you wrap your legs around me like that. I can drive deeper."
Yeah, but I can't push back if I don't have my feet braced against something.
"Well, you can make up for that in round two. I want you on top."
Sounds good to me, but it's gonna have to wait 'til next time. I have to get going. Real life calls.
"Shit! Oh, well. Come back soon, gorgeous."
Count on it.
* * *
Ahoy, mate!
"Lemme guess. I'm a pirate today. Writing a new story?"
Aye.
"You sure mix it up, Ms. Brio."
Don't wanna get bored. It's MY imagination, after all. You up for it?
"Always – and all ways. You know that."
That's why I keep you around.
"Gee, and I thought it was my sharp wit and rakish good looks."
That, too. Not to mention your incredible mainmast.
"So, can I play in your poop deck today?"
You know that's not my thing.
"Can't blame a guy for trying. Okay, then how about some reverse cowgirl?"
Possibly, but you know it makes me feel like the busty figurehead on the prow of an old sailing ship – and the last time we broke the rungs on that chair.
"But I love watching your ass slam into me. And it was YOU who cracked those rungs. My feet were firmly planted on the deck."
A technicality, as it was your fault I was bracing myself on them in the first place.
"You were lovin' it. Don't even TRY to pretend otherwise. This 'old sailing
ship' can still give good plank."
Another reason I keep you around. If my ass is what you most want to see, I'd prefer doggie style.
"Works for me – but then your hands aren't free."
Are we gonna debate positions, or are we gonna fuck?
"Your fantasy, dear. You decide."
Of course. However, it'd be much more fun with an enthusiastic partner.
"Like you had yesterday?"
Do I detect a note of jealousy in your voice?
"No! Well, maybe. Okay, yes."
Let go of that right now. I will NOT have my muses competing with one another.
"You looked like you were having such an extraordinarily good time with her."
I was – just as I intend to do with you. Did you enjoy watching?
"Naturally. Did you enjoy being watched?"
I wasn't aware of it at the time, but I like the image of you standing there, cock in hand.
"It was."
Was what?
"In hand."
Show me.
"With pleasure, lass."
Lass? Oh, the pirate thing. I'd shifted gears already.
"Well, you should let a guy know."
Can't you read my mind? You're IN it, after all.
"Takes the fun out of it."
You can't be serious! Most guys would love to know what a woman is really thinking. You can do it and choose not to?
"Feels like cheating."
Ah, a man of principle. But of course, I'd conjure nothing less. Hey! You're left handed.
"No, I'm ambidextrous – or hadn't you noticed?"
Show me.
"Come closer, sugar. My fingers wanna do some walking."
Your mast is looking quite sturdy. Do you always stroke yourself so slowly?
"No. I'll pick up speed in a bit. I'd prefer a bit of something slippery to make it more enjoyable, though."
I think I can accommodate you, but you're gonna have to work for it.
"I'm up for the challenge, so to speak."
I've no doubt you'll succeed admirably. You have incredible hands and very agile fingers. That feels quite....
"Quite? Did you lose your voice, dear?"
Oh! Damn you. That's...
"That's what? Finish your sentences!"
... quite....
"You said that already. Having problems concentrating?"
You know what that does to me – that bowling ball thing.
"Of course. That's why I'm doing it. Switching hands, though."
I see what you mean – about having something slippery.
"And you're about as slippery as they come. No pun intended."
Not coming yet, but I will be if you keep doing... THAT.
"As will I, undoubtedly."
Does your right hand know what your left hand is doing?
"Are you kidding? My right hand is insanely jealous of my left hand – as are my cock and my tongue."
Well, we wouldn't want them to feel left out, now would we?
"I'll take that as in invitation!"
As intended.
"Which first?"
Take me right to the edge with your tongue, and then impale me on your cock as I'm coming.
"Sounds like a plan. I'll get right on it."
Spin around this way if you want me to tend your mast.
"Uh uh. Too distracting."
For whom?
"For me. I wanna be focused on your cunt, not on what you're doing to my cock."
Understood and... mmmm... appreciated.
"I love it when you shave here."
Feels nice, huh?
"Sure does. Tastes damned good, too."
I can barely keep from touching myself after a close shave. Damn, I love your tongue.
"And it loves you. How 'bout my lips?"
Ah, yes. Just a little... faster.
"Fingers?"
Rrrrrright... there. Just two. Yes!
"Other hand?"
Ass.
"With pleasure. Now, are your lovely tits feeling neglected?"
(pause)
"Alessia?"
Hmm?
"Your tits? Oh, never mind. I see you're... um... handling that for me."
It won't be long now. Still up for it?
"Just tell me when."
You'll know. Oh, d-damn.
"Wow! When did you get your nipple pierced?"
A couple weeks ago. It feels...
"I love it!"
... absolutely... incredible!
"It's been too long, lover. Your tits should never be away from my mouth for that long."
If you'll recall, we were in too much of a hurry the... Oh! Oh, yes! – last time to even bother getting my shirt off. Suck my clit. Yeah. Just... like... that.
"Your legs are shaking."
Now, lover. Fuck me now!
"Gladly."
*gasp*
"I'm not gonna last long. You're so... hot... inside!"
Thanks to you. Harder, p-please.
"Oh, that's.... Yeah. Oh, yeah."
Come with me, lover.
"Mmmmm. Yes!"
I... agree... completely.
"I love it when you wrap your legs around me like that. I can drive deeper."
Yeah, but I can't push back if I don't have my feet braced against something.
"Well, you can make up for that in round two. I want you on top."
Sounds good to me, but it's gonna have to wait 'til next time. I have to get going. Real life calls.
"Shit! Oh, well. Come back soon, gorgeous."
Count on it.
Monday, July 04, 2005
A taste of Alessia
This is an excerpt from a short story I co-wrote entitled San Diego Sunset©. It will appear in its entirety in an upcoming volume of Coming Together.
* * *
"No," she groaned as sleep escaped into the dawn. "Don't go!" Remnants of the dream teased her consciousness. She shivered as she pushed the sheets, damp from her perspiration, aside and rose on shaky legs. The dream was always more vivid toward the middle of each month, as if the date carried some mysterious power. The mildest versions simply contained an image of the sun setting into the sea, obviously the west coast. As the month progressed, however, they would grow in duration and intensity until she'd wake with his name on her lips, the pulses of her orgasm fading. The name she could never recapture, but the touch and the scent and the sound of him were as memorable as the sight. His words, spoken into her ear with an urgency bordering on desperation, echoed in her mind: Come to me. His skin smelled of the sea, as if he'd been in the water and dried by the sun, and he tasted of her sex mingled with his own sweet salt.
Grabbing the notepad and pen from her nightstand, she rapidly jotted down a couple new clues as to the location: a hang glider coasting lazily overhead; a winding path, with occasional rough stairs, along a steep hillside; and dark sands on the beach at its base. She shook her head in frustration as the images dissipated leaving behind only a pervasive longing. There was no doubt in her mind that the place was real. She would find it eventually, and when she did, she'd go there. It was crazy but, no matter the time or the trouble or the cost, she'd go. The incredible pull left her no alternative. He'd be waiting there for her, on that beach at sunset. Ready and waiting. The thought warmed the embers of her climax.
Detouring only long enough to start a pot of coffee, she carried her laptop onto the deck wiped the dew off a chair while the machine whirred to life. The Internet thus far had not been much help, but armed with new information she pecked a string of key words into the search box and sent it into the ether with a muttered prayer. The results were encouraging: down from 8,160 hits to just under five hundred. On a whim, she added the word "California" to the query, since it occupied such a large expanse of the Pacific coast, and resubmitted. There! On the very first page, the words jumped out at her: Torrey Pines Gliderport. So THAT was what the sign said; the sign which would never come into focus in her dreams.
When her head began to swim, she realized she'd been holding her breath. Fear mingled with anticipation, causing a tingly pressure in her sternum which radiated outward. She felt on the verge of a life-changing discovery, and with trembling hands she placed the laptop on the glass patio table as if it'd suddenly become too hot to touch. After all these months of searching, piecing the puzzle together, she somehow knew that once she clicked that link, nothing would ever be the same.
* * *
A wonderful illustration has been created for this story by the very talented pattydraws:
"No," she groaned as sleep escaped into the dawn. "Don't go!" Remnants of the dream teased her consciousness. She shivered as she pushed the sheets, damp from her perspiration, aside and rose on shaky legs. The dream was always more vivid toward the middle of each month, as if the date carried some mysterious power. The mildest versions simply contained an image of the sun setting into the sea, obviously the west coast. As the month progressed, however, they would grow in duration and intensity until she'd wake with his name on her lips, the pulses of her orgasm fading. The name she could never recapture, but the touch and the scent and the sound of him were as memorable as the sight. His words, spoken into her ear with an urgency bordering on desperation, echoed in her mind: Come to me. His skin smelled of the sea, as if he'd been in the water and dried by the sun, and he tasted of her sex mingled with his own sweet salt.
Grabbing the notepad and pen from her nightstand, she rapidly jotted down a couple new clues as to the location: a hang glider coasting lazily overhead; a winding path, with occasional rough stairs, along a steep hillside; and dark sands on the beach at its base. She shook her head in frustration as the images dissipated leaving behind only a pervasive longing. There was no doubt in her mind that the place was real. She would find it eventually, and when she did, she'd go there. It was crazy but, no matter the time or the trouble or the cost, she'd go. The incredible pull left her no alternative. He'd be waiting there for her, on that beach at sunset. Ready and waiting. The thought warmed the embers of her climax.
Detouring only long enough to start a pot of coffee, she carried her laptop onto the deck wiped the dew off a chair while the machine whirred to life. The Internet thus far had not been much help, but armed with new information she pecked a string of key words into the search box and sent it into the ether with a muttered prayer. The results were encouraging: down from 8,160 hits to just under five hundred. On a whim, she added the word "California" to the query, since it occupied such a large expanse of the Pacific coast, and resubmitted. There! On the very first page, the words jumped out at her: Torrey Pines Gliderport. So THAT was what the sign said; the sign which would never come into focus in her dreams.
When her head began to swim, she realized she'd been holding her breath. Fear mingled with anticipation, causing a tingly pressure in her sternum which radiated outward. She felt on the verge of a life-changing discovery, and with trembling hands she placed the laptop on the glass patio table as if it'd suddenly become too hot to touch. After all these months of searching, piecing the puzzle together, she somehow knew that once she clicked that link, nothing would ever be the same.
A wonderful illustration has been created for this story by the very talented pattydraws:
Sunday, July 03, 2005
The Authors of Phaze
- Allen, Jenna
home | blog | group - Ashford, Lily
home | blog | group - Barnette, M
home | blog | group - Bee, Courtney
home | blog | group - Belegon, Will
home | blog | group - Black, Mychael
home | blog | group - Blair, Iona
home | blog | group - Bradley, Eden
home | blog | group - Brio, Alessia
home | blog | group - Bryce, L.E.
home | blog | group - Byers, Estelle
home | blog | group - Buchanan, James
home | blog | group - Caesar, Petula
home | blog | group - Carmichael, Shayne
home | blog | group - Dane, Adrianna
home | blog | group - D'Arc, Bianca
home | blog | group - Dean, Vivien
home | blog | group - Dickson, Sally
home | blog | group - Downs, Pamela
home | blog | group - Drewry, Jayelle
home | blog | group - Dwai, Tysche
home | blog | group - Ellwood, Leigh
home | blog | group - Faire, Dreama
home | blog | group - Falconer, Jade
home | blog | group - Fallon, Anna
home | blog | group - Fey, Kara
home | blog | group - Foxx, Nia
home | blog | group - Gale, Eva
home | blog | group - Grey-Gerou, Philippa
home | blog | group - Harley, Karen
home | blog | group - Jordan, Monique
home | blog | group (Crystal Jordan)
home | blog | group (Shawn Monique) - Kelly, Amanda Jean
home | blog | group - Kelly, Mara
home | blog | group - Kent, Cassidy
home | blog | group - Lamont, Monique
home | blog | group - Lyons, Brenna
home | blog | group - Maher, Kelly
home | blog | group - March, Selah
home | blog | group - Marks, Rena
home | blog | group - McKnight, Ava
home | blog | group - Midway, Bridget
home | blog | group - Oh, Madeleine
home | blog | group - Pierce, Rachael
home | blog | group - Price, Audra
home | blog | forum - Price, Stella
home | blog | forum - Regentin, Ann
home | blog | group - Saint, Stephanie
home | blog | group - Schroeder, Melissa
home | blog | group - Slick, Robin
home | blog | group - Sparks, Devi
home | blog | group - Spice, Inna
home | blog | group - Stilletto, Trixie
home | blog | group - Surbeck, Kally Jo
home | blog | group - Veinglory, Emily
home | blog | group - Verino, Jessie
home | blog | group - Walder, Cassie
home | blog | group - West, Trinidad
home | blog | group - Wildes, Emma
home | blog | group - Willoughby, Kate
home | blog | group
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