Black Dust Mambo Giveaway

Adrian Phoenix has graciously offered a copy of Black Dust Mambo to be given away today.

Book Description:

“There will be times, girl, when all your magic ain’t going to be enough, times when it will seem to dry up like mud under the noonday sun, or even make matters worse. . . .”

Kallie Rivière, a fiery Cajun hoodoo apprentice with a talent for trouble, finds herself smack-dab in the middle of one of those times her mentor warned her about when she visits New Orleans to attend the Hecatean Alliance’s annual carnival: her hard-bodied conjurer hookup ends up dead in her blood-drenched bed. And he was killed by something that Kallie would never dream of touching—the darkest of dark juju, soul-eating juju—a black dust hex that may have been meant to kill her.

Now Kallie has to use every bit of hoodoo knowledge and bayou-bred mojo she possesses to clear her own name and find the killer—even as that dark sorcerer hunts Kallie and her friends. But Kallie’s search for the truth soon leads her in a direction she never anticipated—back home to Bayou Cyprés Noir, and to Gabrielle LaRue, Kallie’s aunt, protector, and hoodoo mentor . . . who is looking more and more like she just might be the one who wants Kallie dead.

Read Chapter 1 here.

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Michigan Author Roxanne Rhoads and Ebook Giveaway

After going to all the trouble to plan Michigan month- rounding up and scheduling authors and giveaways it didn't even occur to me until the last minute to schedule a day for myself.

Hello? I'm a Michigan author, that's the main thing that inspired my decision to showcase other Michigan authors all month. It's not like I picked a state out of a hat and decided to showcase it.

So today to wrap up Michigan month I am going to talk a little bit about my experiences living here my entire life and about my books (of course).

I'll also be offering a couple pdf's of my books whose stories are based in Michigan.

I have lived in Michigan my whole life and have alternately loved and hated it.

I love Spring, Fall and Summer here- it is so beautiful.

Autumn in Michigan by rkramer62 flickr CC

I think my favorite time is autumn- the colors are phenomenal and the smell of dying leaves (sounds odd but it's a slightly sweet nature smell) mixed with the clean crisp air and the wafting aroma of bonfires makes me feel so at home and comforted. The variety of leaf colors combined with the greens and blues of the pine trees mixed with the purest blue skies and big fluffy white clouds make Fall in Michigan extraordinary- and if you happen to combine all that with the backdrop of one of our many beautiful lakes- it is truly an exquisite sight.

I couldn't imagine living anywhere else- I've tried. My husband and I have spoken about leaving but Florida and Georgia (his former stomping grounds) are just too hot for a cold blooded Michigan girl like myself. I love Tennessee but driving through the mountains would surely kill me. And I don't mean falling off the mountain either though after I had a panic attack behind the wheel I am sure I would probably end up at the bottom of the mountain. Not good. Plus the bears. No thanks I want to be able to garden and let my kids play outside without worrying about bears rambling through my yard.

I love the magic of New Orleans but I don't want to live there- visiting from time to time is fine.

So I'm stuck in Michigan because I haven't found anyplace else that feels like home. I just wish I could leave for the winters.

Machinac Island at Christmas Time by Mackinca Cowgirl Flickr Creative Commons

I love snow fall on Christmas Eve- there is something truly magical about snowfall on Christmas Eve. Then waking up to a white Christmas day just feels right.

winter scene by rkramer62 Flickr CC

After that I couldn't care less about the snow. I turn into a grumpy old bear and want to hibernate. All my life in Michigan and I have never been skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling. My husband, who is from the south, has done all of it- numerous times and he's only lived here for a combined total of maybe 12 years. He even goes ice fishing and hunts. He's taken the kids to do a lot of the outdoor stuff- good thing so they get the experiences. Me, I stay home and huddle under blankets. I have always wished I had a big fireplace to lounge in front of all winter. It would make me happier if I could do winter right. Instead I sulk all winter waiting for spring.

My roses

Once spring comes I am alive again and ready to dig in the dirt and plant my seeds and plants.

My backyard

Then there's summer- gardens, lakes, parks, nature, hiking, camping, going up north...that's all part of a Michigan summer.

Tawas shoreline by Linda N. Flickr CC

When I was a kid my first step dad had a cabin up north and his (adult) son had a big boat up in Tawas- so most of our summers were split up between Harrison and Tawas. Harrison had a lake that I would go swimming in and it had a river flowing through it to go canoeing and tubing. And Tawas...being on the water like that was wonderful. Whenever I get close to one of the Great Lakes and smell that slightly fishy aroma I am transported to my childhood once again. Being at the Great Lakes is like many people going back to the ocean. They are immense and amazing.

I wish I could give my children the up north experiences I had as a child but we don't have a cabin or a large boat like that (hopefully someday). I have sent my son on plenty of boyscout camp outs where they have went up north and to the U.P. (upper peninsula) so he's had the experience plus he goes up north with the hubby for deer hunting every fall.

Now I need to get the other two to see the state.

A couple of my stories take place in Michigan- Renata and The Questioning Concubine which are in Torrid Teasers Volume 59 available through Whiskey Creek Press Torrid are both set in the beautiful downtown area of Flushing.


Cemetery Seduction is also set in the Flushing area. Cemetery Seduction appears in the Midnight Showcase Dark Tales Digest.

I am currently working on a set of novels based in Flint- featuring vampires and all sorts of Others.

Today I am offering a giveaway of a set of pdfs

of

Torrid Teasers Volume 59

and

Dark Tales Digest

to one lucky winner

To enter just leave a comment on this post with your email address

Winner Announced Next Wednesday

Here are my other books:

My Eternal Press Books

My Xcite Books

Other releases through various publishers

Eternal Desire for your Kindle

Island Getaways Outside Michigan's Traverse City

Traverse City and surrounding areas are one of Michigan's top travel destinations.

Check out the islands- it looks tropical doesn't it?

Of course I would hate to see what this looks like in the middle of an icy gray winter.

Photo Credit: Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau

Seen from the northwest, Power Island and its tiny neighbor, Bassett Island, lie in the clear waters of West Grand Traverse Bay, beside the narrow Old Mission Peninsula.

The islands are only nine miles north of the resort community of Traverse City.

By MIKE NORTON

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – At least once a year, Jane Conway drives up the narrow Old Mission Peninsula, launches her kayak, and paddles two and a half miles across Bowers Harbor to the tree-covered dome of Power Island.

“It’s one of my little rituals, I suppose,” says the 27-year-old Ohio woman. “This is a place I just keep coming back to. Sometimes I bring a friend, but mostly it’s my special getting-away-from-it-all place. My own little island.”

A lot of people feel that way about Power Island (or Marion Island, as the locals still stubbornly insist on calling it). A 204-acre preserve of forests, wetlands, bluffs and beaches on West Grand Traverse Bay, its only human residents are the county park ranger and his family who stay in the summers to keep an eye on things. But for boaters and paddlers, it’s one of the most popular destinations on the bay – thanks to its sheltered location at the mouth of Bowers Harbor.

On summer weekends, in particular, the island’s tiny harbor is filled with boats and frolicking boaters who congregate around the dock and swimming beach, or cluster in the shallows off its southern edge to enjoy the limpid Caribbean-clear waters and picnic on the tree-shaded beaches.

But solitary souls like Jane Conway can find tranquility on the island even on the busiest days, since 90 percent of its visitors never venture more than a few yards from the water’s edge. The interior of the island is a treat for hikers: miles of well-maintained trails lead through the dense beech-maple forest (home to fox, bobcats and a diverse population of songbirds) to a high ridge known as the Eagle’s Nest and along the wild western shore with its steep bluffs and rocky shoals.

To the north, there’s even another, smaller island: little 2-acre Bassett Island, which in low-water periods is linked to its larger neighbor by a causeway of sand, gravel and boulders. Here, the Grand Traverse County parks department maintains a small five-site rustic campground. (Camping costs $15 per night, and reservations must be made ahead of time by calling (231) 922-4818.) It’s a strange experience to camp out on a “desert island” so close to the mainland that you can watch the lights of the homes and restaurants that line the opposite shore.

What’s equally strange is that in spite of its closeness to some of the most sought-after real estate in the Traverse City area, Power Island has never been seriously considered for development or settlement. It passed through several owners – including auto pioneer Henry Ford, who sometimes camped there with his pals Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone – but aside from a brief logging attempt in the 1940s, it has always been left largely in its natural state.

Bassett Island’s career was slightly different. For years it was known as Haunted Island because of a tale (probably apocryphal) that it was inhabited by the ghost of an Indian girl who had been marooned there for some breach of tribal etiquette. In the late 19th century it was purchased by a Civil War veteran named Dick Bassett, who built a small cabin, raised his own food, and was considered a mysterious hermit. In 1901 a steamship company bought the island and erected a two-story dance pavilion that was a major attraction for excursion boats until the early 1930s.

During most of the intervening years, the two islands have been accessible only to boat owners. More recently, though, a new breed of excursion operators are bringing casual visitors out for tours in sea kayaks. One operator, Uncommon Adventures, has designed a “Water-to-Wine Day Tour” that pairs a paddling trip to Power Island with a gourmet picnic and a tasting tour of several nearby Old Mission wineries. A more laid-back approach is favored by Bowers Harbor residents Mary Man­ner and Susan Tar­c­zon, whose kayak livery, PaddleAway Tours, specializes in low-stress paddling excursions geared toward novice paddlers.

Kayakers who prefer to keep their own schedules can bring their own boats or rent them from any number of local liveries in and around Traverse City, such as McLain’s Cycle & Fitness.

GETTING THERE

The best jumping-off spot for a trip to the islands is at the public boat launch in Bowers Harbor, just off Peninsula Drive on Neahtawanta Road. Thanks to its sheltered location, the crossing is an easy one in most weather – but it can be tricky on a windy day, especially when the wind is out of the south. For novices, the best route is to cross the harbor to Neahtawanta Point and make the relatively short open-water crossing to Bassett Island.


For more information about islands, parks and other special places in the Traverse City area, and for a comprehensive listing of nearby restaurants, accommodations and attractions, contact the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-TRAVERSE or on line at http://www.traversecity.com/

Guest Blog and Giveaway with Roxi Romano

Having lived in northern Michigan all my life, you’d think my books would be set in the beauty of woods, lakes and changing seasons. Or maybe it’s because of living in a place so many call God’s country that has inspired me to look to alternative locales for my stories. But never fear. My stories aren’t about the doom and gloom future of a ruined planet. They are about people like you and me thriving in whatever worlds they inhabit.

Meanwhile, I will continue to write my erotic romances from an office that overlooks lush, green trees that will turn red, yellow and all shades between come autumn. I will enjoy my fields of wild flowers that will turn into mountains of snow come winter. I will cherish all the seasons of my life as a Michigan author. Roxi Romano. http://www.roxiromano.com/


Two Grooms for Dani
by Roxi Romano

Princess Danika Dubhraic is a rebel of her own making. A Top Gun pilot, she’s sworn off marriage. But Dani has a secret. She’s been waiting a decade for her lover, Brody Callahan, to tire of being the biggest stud in the galaxy and marry her.

General Joryn Vierek, soldier of fortune, has been in Danika’s life ever since her hormones could spot a hot man. But she’s yet to know just how hot he is until they’re contracted to marry to cement a peace initiative between their peoples. Aside from being incensed she has no say in the arrangement, Brody finally proposes marriage. But does he love her or just want to win the girl?

It takes an attempted assassination, a deadly battle and some serious sacrificing to make Dani realize she loves Joryn and Brody equally. But even if there’s a way she can keep both men in her life, can the ultra alpha Brody and Joryn love her enough to share her?

PURCHASE LINKS to TWO GROOMS FOR DANI:

Ellora’s Cave direct link to book http://www.jasminejade.com/m-144-roxi-romano.aspx
Or, if you prefer Publisher link in general: http://www.ellorascave.com/

Barnes and Noble Nook link:

http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=EBOOK&WRD=ROXI+ROMANO

Amazon Kindle download link to TWO GROOMS FOR DANI:

http://www.amazon.com/Two-Grooms-for-Dani-ebook/dp/B003XU7IRC/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282675459&sr=1-3

Fantasies R Us
by Roxi Romano

Plain-jane librarian Jayne Applegate refuses to turn thirty as a virgin.

Fortunately for her there’s Fantasies R Us, a spa that specializes in making sexual fantasies come true. When they offer her a cyborg lover in a poet’s shirt with the come-on line “How may I serve you?” she knows she’s found the right “man” to deflower her.

Jayne’s “Prince Charming”, Michael, thoroughly and romantically initiates her into all the joys of sex. But the spa’s cost cutting methods turn her fantasy into a fractured fairytale of diddling dwarves, horny merry men and any number of legendary creatures. But not to worry. Michael is ever present to safeguard her and share her adventures.

But, by week’s end, Jayne realizes she’s fallen in lover with her cyborg lover. Of course he can’t leave Fantasies R Us and she can’t afford to stay…unless Michael proves to be the spa’s biggest glitch of all.

PURCHASE LINKS to FANTASIES R US:

Ellora’s Cave direct link to book: http://www.jasminejade.com/m-144-roxi-romano.aspx

Or, if you prefer Publisher link in general: http://www.ellorascave.com/

Amazon Kindle download:

http://www.amazon.com/Fantasies-R-Us-ebook/dp/B0030MQJE6/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282675459&sr=1-4

The Sex Slave by Roxi Romano
A novella from Secrets, volume 23

Lazarus Stone’s species of human possess a special power that condemns them to live as sex slaves. Privately owned, he’s one of the more fortunate. But, when his mistress dies and he’s faced with an uncertain future, he knows he must escape the mining colony on an outer world moon before her death is discovered. Jaci Coe needs a hero and the hard bodied man in black she literally runs into meets all the criteria. But he walks away from her…once he’s saved her from the men chasing her. When their paths cross a second time in the same night, the ever opportunistic Jaci takes advantage of Lazarus’ commandingly protective nature.

While Lazarus has access to the currency to buy passage on a pirate cargo ship, it’s Jaci Coe, the party girl he reluctantly rescues from sex traders, who knows how to survive in the outer worlds. It’ll take the two of them working together, their flaws and strengths blending, to teach them how to live free…and love freely.

PURCHASE LINKS to SECRETS, VOLUME 23,

which includes my SEX SLAVE:
Red Sage Publishing link: http://www.eredsage.com/store/Secrets_Volume_23_Paperback_Secret_Desires__Bonnie_Dee__Calista_Fox__Bethany_Michaels__Rox_Romano.html

Amazon trade paperback link:

http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Vol-23-Secret-Desires/dp/1603101640/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282675459&sr=1-1

Amazon Kindle link for SECRETS, VOLUME 23/SEX SLAVE: http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-23-Secret-Desires-ebook/dp/B003JH85LC/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282675459&sr=1-2

Barnes and Noble Nook link:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Fantasies-R-Us/Roxi-Romano/e/9781419900730/?itm=2&USRI=roxi+romano

Barnes and Noble trade paperback link:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Secrets-Volume-23/Calista-Fox/e/9781603101646/?itm=3&USRI=roxi+romano




Roxi has offered to give away an ecopy of

Two Grooms for Dani

to one lucky reader

All You Have to Do Is Leave a Comment On This Post

One Winner TBA on Wednesday

Win a Kindle

Author Scott Nicholson and Amazon are giving away two Kindles as part of his fall book blog tour from September through November, including a stop here on Oct. 13. A Kindle DX will be given away through the participating blogs, and a Kindle 3 will be given away through the tour newsletter. A Pandora's Box of free ebooks will be given away through Nicholson's "hauntedcomputer" Twitter account. No purchase necessary, and the contest is international.

“The rising popularity of the Kindle has coincided with Act II of my career,” Nicholson said. “I love the stories I hear about how the Kindle has expanded people’s reading habits, helped those with vision impairment, and made books easier to find. I also want to celebrate the bloggers who spread the word about good books.”Nicholson is author 12 novels and three story collections, as well as four comics series and six screenplays. His paranormal thrillers "The Red Church," "Drummer Boy" and "Speed Dating with the Dead" have all hit #1 in the Kindle "Ghosts" category.

As a bonus, if Nicholson hits the Top 100 in the U.S. or U.K. Kindle Store during the tour between Sept. 1 and Nov. 30, he will give away an extra Kindle 3 through the blogs. Sign up for the newsletter at scottsinnercircle-subscribe@yahoogroups.com to get daily links to the participating blogs. Winners will be selected at the Watauga County (NC) Public Library in December.

Co-sponsored by Kindle Nation Daily and Dellaster Design. Details at http://www.hauntedcomputer.com/.

What Do You Want from CSN Stores?

I absolutely love CSNStores.com- there is always something new to look at.

With over 200 stores to choose from I can find something for every room in my house and everyone on my list.

With Christmas coming soon (much faster than I'd like)- I would love to get started on my holiday shopping.

My house could use a few updates for holiday parties- like maybe some throw pillows and festive decor.

CSN has it all. From throw pillows to dining tables I could give my home a festive makeover for the holidays.

I have the chance to review something else from their massive list of offerings. I'm just not sure what to get this time around.

What would you get if you had the chance? Bookcase? Storage bench? Gifts for the family?

I guess it's time for me to go shopping and figure out what to get for review.

Take a Step Back in Time at Crossroads Village

My family loves to visit the historical little town of Crossroads Village in Genesee County.

The village is actually part of the Genesee County Parks and is open throughout the summer, in the Fall for Halloween trick or treating and at Christmas Time. It is also open one night in November for a special Ladies Night Out.

Crossroads Village is set up as a late 1800's town and has authentic buildings from the Genesee County area that have been rescued or donated to the park- like a couple of houses and the church.

It even has a grand Charles W. Parker carousel fully functional and in working order- just the way it was in 1912.

The park features home that are fully decorated and fuctionable right down to the wood burning stoves that still work to keep the buidlings warm when the park is open in the winter.

It is so beautiful in the winter- makes you think you've truly stepped back in time to a smpler era where malls didn't exist and the holidays were all about family. I love walking through the village when it is covered in snow.

And my family has a Christmas Eve tradition of driving through the village on Christmas eve night to see all the lights. It is one of the only times you're allowed to drive through the village and it's a great family tradition.

The inside of one of the Victorian era homes.

I love this barn, don't you?

The church, you can even schedule weddings here.

Crossroads Village and the Huckleberry Railroad

May 29 ~ September 6, 2010

Open Wednesday thru Sunday & Holidays

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

6140 Bray Rd.

Flint, MI 48505

For more about Crossroads Village

http://www.geneseecountyparks.org/crossroadsvillage.htm

Upcoming Michigan Events Courtesy of Pure Michigan

Michigan in the Fall is something splendid to behold with the ever changing scenery and kaleidoscope of colors.

That's one reason we have so many fun fall festivals with names like apple fest and pumpkin fest (there's even a llama fest and red flannel festival, who knew).

I love Fall festivals because it's often nice enough to be outside but cool enough to put on jeans and a sweater. It's my time of year and I love every minute of it before winter takes over and I go into hibernation.

Here's a list of some of the fun fall festivals coming up in September and October here in Michigan.

This list is from Pure Michigan's blog- PureMichiganblog.org

Pure Michigan Events – September through October

Southwest


Three Rivers Harmonyfest, Three Rivers, September 6, 2010
Bring your lawn chair and dancing shoes to the 17th annual celebration of the area’s ethnic diversity.

Wine & Harvest Festival, Paw Paw, September 10-12, 2010
Paw Paw uncorks “A Grape Time for Everyone” with the Grape Stomp competition, winery tours and tastings, teen and kiddie activities, entertainment, parade, fireworks and much more.


Marshall Historic Home Tour, Marshall, September 11-12, 2010
This is the 47th annual peek into private homes of the National Historic Landmark District. Events surrounding the tour include a quilt show, art fair, concerts and Saturday evening’s Civil War Ball and Social Event.

44th Festival of the Forks, Albion, September 17-18, 2010
Music, food, art, and a parade celebrate the early settlement at the fork of the Kalamazoo River.


St. Joseph County Grange Fair, Centreville, September 19-25, 2010
Also known as the Centreville Grange Fair, this has been a Southwest Michigan tradition since 1851 with 4-H events, horse shows, midway, live entertainment and harness racing.

Four Flags Area Apple Festival, Niles, September 30-October 3, 2010
It’s an Apple Fiesta at the annual autumn celebration, with free entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival rides, parades, biggest apple and apple pie eating contests, and Miss Apple Festival Pageant.

Punkin’ Chuckin’, Grayling, October 16-17, 2010
Have some fall fun at Wellington Farm, USA, a 60-acre open-air museum “Where It’s Always 1932” reflecting the farms of decades ago.

Southeast

Lamafest 2010, East Lansing, September 3-5, 2010
Take a free trip to Llamaland and see live llamas and alpacas, demonstrations and displays.

Arts, Beats & Eats, Royal Oak, September 3-6, 2010
A quarter of a million folks will enjoy this 13th annual Labor Day Weekend feast for the senses in a new location, downtown Royal Oak (formerly held in Pontiac).

Detroit International Jazz Festival, Detroit, September 3-6, 2010
The 31st annual free musical celebration pays tribute to “Flame Keepers: Carrying the Torch for Modern Jazz,” and features more dozens of acts on several stages at the Detroit Riverfront. Nightly after-hour jam sessions follow at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center.


Art & Apples Festival, Rochester, September 10-12, 2010
The homemade apple pies rival the juried art fair with more than 250 artists at this festive fall celebration in a park setting. Live entertainment, Student Apple Art contest, and kiddie activities.

Greenfield Village Old Car Festival, Dearborn, September 11-12, 2010
Inspect and admire wheeled vehicles from the 1890s through 1932, see demonstrations of skill and parade, attend car talks and demonstrations; open until 9 p.m. Saturday.


Old Town BluesFest, Lansing, September 17-18, 2010
Local, regional and national acts play original compositions and favorites at this free festival in Old Town, a revitalized historic corner of the Capital City.

Victorian Festival, Northville, September 17-19, 2010
The historic village steps into the 1800’s as the streets fill with residents in period costumes and old-fashioned entertainment. Visit Historic Mill Race Village and enjoy a Victorian tea and fashion show.

Oh These Irish Hills Festival, Tipton, September 18, 2010
Hidden Lake Gardens hosts this celebration designed to recognize the beauty, history and heritage of the area.

Clinton Fall Festival, Clinton, September 24-26, 2010
Welcome autumn with a car and motorcycle show, arts & crafts show, parade, 5K walk/run, and “Celebration Saturday” entertainment under the tent.

Huron Township Applefest, New Boston, October 2-3, 2010
The 25th Annual Michigan State Championship Old-Time Fiddlers Contest is a highlight of this autumn event, which includes an apple pie contest, car show, fun run and parade.

South Lyon Area PumpkinFest , South Lyon, October 2-3, 2010
It’s time for the Great Pumpkin and Fun Veggies Contest, scarecrow decorating and pie-eating at this fall fun weekend with craft show, kiddie activities, and Saturday’s parade.

Appleumpkin Festival, Tecumseh, October 9-10, 2010
Make your own scarecrow and savor farm fresh foods, cider and apples, plus an antique street fair, arts & crafts, entertainment, midway and kiddie activities.

Apple Butter Festival , Lansing, October 16-17, 2010
Sample freshly made apple butter, see pioneer craft demonstrations like quilting, lace and soap making, and hike the trails at the Fenner Nature Center.

Fiber Expo, Ann Arbor October 23-24, 2010
Shop for yarns and handmade natural fiber creations, learn about spinning, knitting, felting, and dying fibers, and chat with breeders about their animals at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds.

West Central

Logging Festival, Newaygo, September 2-4, 2010
Fun salute to the area’s logging heritage with lumberjack and chainsaw competitions, Chicken BBQ, music and parade.

Shoreline Spectacular, Muskegon, September 3-6, 2010
Wacky fun and games, arts & crafts, entertainment and Labor Day picnic are some of the spectacular activities at this downtown festival.

Charlotte Frontier Days, Charlotte, September 8-12, 2010
There’s a whole lot of rootin’ tootin’ fun at the 40th annual festival, starring the Dancing Deputies at the Frontier Days Saloon, plus classic car cruise, kiddie fun and games, Grand Parade, chili cook-off and more.

Celebration on the Grand, Grand Rapids, September 9-11, 2010
Enjoy free live entertainment, Friday night fireworks over the Grand River, and food booths featuring a Taste of Downtown, plus free admission to cultural institutions on Saturday.


Silver Lake Sand Dunes Apple & BBQ Cookoff Festival, Hart, September 10-11, 2010
Dig into the Michigan sanctioned Kansas City BBQ competition, apple pie contest, Dune Buggy Show & Swap Meet, classic vehicle show, crafts, and entertainment.

Grand Haven Salmon Festival, Grand Haven, September 17-19, 2010
Migrating fish are the reason for the 7th annual event with a salmon cook-off, fishing contest, Fresh Catch Fish Boil, live jazz, nature-themed art fair and wine tasting pavilion with grape stomping.

Michigan Irish Music Festival, Muskegon, September 17-19, 2010
It’s a weekend of authentic music, food, drink, marketplace, Irish dance competition—and don’t forget the “Wee Ones” area for the kids.

ArtPrize, Grand Rapids, September 22-October 10, 2010
The public votes on the works displayed throughout Grand Rapids created by talented folks from around the globe as they compete for the top award of $250,000. Entertainment, lectures, fun activities create a festive atmosphere.

Kalamazoo Irish Fest, Kalamazoo, September 24-25, 2010
Step lively to Celtic music, enjoy Irish dancing, imported goods, and traditional fare at Arcadia Creek Festival Place.

Fallasburg Fall Festival, Lowell, September 25-26, 2010
Fallasburg Park with its circa 1871 covered bridge provide the backdrop for this autumn tradition with juried art show, craft demonstrations, music, food, and kiddie activities.

PumpkinFest, Zeeland, September 30-October 2, 2010
Fall for family-friendly fun including contests, games, entertainment, scarecrow displays and a parade.

Red Flannel Festival, Cedar Springs, October 1-2, 2010
Locally made “dropseater” undergarments inspired “Red Flannel Day” back in 1939. The annual event also honors the lumbering heritage of the area with a Lumber Jacks show, plus art and car shows, entertainment, parade and more. Wear red or risk “arrest” by the Keystone Cops!

Color Cruise & Island Festival , Grand Ledge, October 8-10, 2010
The 30th annual autumn event on Island Park features demonstrations of pioneer skills such as cider pressing, weaving and wood carving, plus a fur trader encampment, live folk music, and a color cruise along the Grand River.

Fennville Goose Festival, Fennville, October 8-10, 2010
Join the Wild Goose Chase fun run or take in the craft and car shows, parade and other activities at the 26th annual autumn celebration.

Pumpkinfest, Montague, October 9, 2010
The famous Pumpkin Roll down Dowling Hill is just one of the family friendly events such as pumpkin bowling, painting, carving, and seed spitting.

East Central

Michigan Renaissance Festival, Holly, August 21-October 3, 2010
Themed weekends include Buccaneer Beer Fest and a Grape Stomp in recreated world of ye olde days.

Elkton AutumnFest, Elkton, September 3-6, 2010
Lawnmower races, tractor pulls, demolition derby, Bingo, parade, entertainment tent and midway games help make this a family-friendly event.


64th Michigan Bean Festival, Fairgrove, September 3-6, 2010
Can’t beat the free bean soup, bean creation contest, bean bake off, demolition derby, entertainment, parade and crowning of the Michigan Bean Queen.

Thumbfest, Lexington, September 4-5, 2010
The Bluewater Folk Society hosts this traditional music festival with multiple stages, workshops, dance hall, and crafts along Lake Huron.


Art in the Park, Port Austin, September 5-6, 2010
It’s Thumbs Up to art at this 9th annual show accompanied by live entertainment and activities for the kids.

Frankenmuth Oktoberfest, Frankenmuth, September 16-19, 2010
Authentic German foods and beer and traditional German music, dancing and costumes are staples of the 21st annual Frankenmuth Oktoberfest at Heritage Park. This is the only Oktoberfest outside of Germany officially sanctioned by the city of Munich.

Ovid Carriage Days, St. John’s, September 23-25, 2010
Roll back in time and admire vintage carriages plus antique tractor and horse pulls, a carnival, entertainment and Saturday’s parade at this 17th annual tribute to the horse and buggy days.


Blue Water Film Festival, Port Huron, October 6-9, 2010
The second annual event is a showcase for independent films by local filmmakers and films made in Michigan or the Sarnia, Ontario area.

Tuscola County Pumpkin Festival, Caro, October 7-10, 2010
Decorated pumpkins, giant pumpkins, and the famous pumpkin pie sale star at the 30th fall celebration in the Thumb. Entertainment, kiddie activities, contests, fireworks and Grand Parade round out the fun.

OktoberFest, Lexington, October 9-10, 2010
Raise a glass of beer or wine and enjoy traditional German foods, dancing and fun on the Lake Huron shore.

Northwest

104th Farwell Labor Day Celebration, Farwell, September 3-6, 2010
It’s all play and no labor at “The Longest Continuous Festival in the State of Michigan,” which packs the long holiday weekend with fun for the whole family.

Hopps of Fun Beer & Wine Festival, Mackinaw City, September 10-11, 2010
Sample micro-brewed beers and wines, chat with the beverage makers, and enjoy entertainment and food at Mackinaw Crossings.

Art & Apples Festival, Rochester, September 10-12, 2010
The homemade apple pies rival the juried art fair with more than 250 artists at this festive fall celebration in a park setting. Live entertainment, Student Apple Art contest, and kiddie activities.

Port City Street Fair , Manistee, September 11, 2010
The Victorian Port City bids summer farewell with an antique and classic car show, art fair, street buskers, main stage entertainment, and pig roast.

Big Mac Shoreline Fall Scenic Bike Tour, Mackinaw City, September 18-19, 2010
Bicyclists choose from 25, 50, 75 or 100-mile bike routes along Lake Michigan. The first 400 riders to register may pedal across the Mackinac Bridge linking the Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Sunday.

Harvest Stompede, Suttons Bay, September 18-19, 2010
Run or walk a 7-mile/5K route through the vineyards, and sample local wines and foods on a tour of Leelanau Peninsula wineries. Participation is limited; advance registration suggested.

Autumn Days, Ludington, October 1-2, 2010
Historic White Pine Village, a collection of 25 buildings, is filled with colorful gourds, pumpkins and corn stalks for this fall event, where you can see cider being pressed, take a hayride, and enjoy fresh baked apple pie at the old-fashioned ice cream parlor.

FallFest, Frankfort, October 2-3 and 9-10, 2010
Pumpkin decorating, the aromas of apple cinnamon pie and simmering soups, professional pumpkin carver Ed Moody and carvings by the Lord of Gourd Pat Harrison are a sampling of the seasonal fun on the first of two FallFest weekends.

Northern Michigan C.S. Lewis Festival, Petoskey, October 7-November 22, 2010
Lectures, music and theater performances, children’s programs and discussions celebrating the author best known for The Chronicles of Narnia.

Apple Festival & Craft Show, Charlevoix, October 9-11, 2010
Munch your choice of more than 30 types of locally grown apples as well as apple cider, apple butter, pumpkins, squash, jam and honey. Crafts show, fall bulb sale and kiddie activities, too.

Harvest Festival, Boyne City, October 2-3, 2010
Enjoy hayrides, pumpkin carving, seasonal decorations and flavors of the season.

Michigan Hemingway Society Weekend , Petoskey, October 15-17, 2010
“Dining at Hemingway’s Table” is the theme of this year’s gathering honoring the famed author who summered in the area and featured Northern Michigan in his works. Activities include tours of Hemingway-related sites, speakers and exhibits.

Northeast

Harmony Weekend, Harrisville, September 4-5, 2010
Music and visual arts harmonize as Barbershoppers and Sweet Adelines sing at planned concerts and impromptu gatherings while 500 exhibitors display their Arts & Crafts.


Posen Potato Festival, Posen, September 10-12, 2010
The 59th annual spud celebration features a big parade, tasty potato pancakes, the potato dish competition, Polish Polka Folk Mass, midway rides and more accompanied by lively tunes at the Polka Pavilion and country music concert.

Michigan Firemen’s Memorial Festival, Roscommon , September 16-19, 2010
Fire chiefs, fire fighters, EMS crew and friends and family from across the U.S. gather to honor those who have given their lives while protecting their communities with a memorial service at the Firemen’s’ Memorial. See firefighting demonstrations and rescue competition and Friday evening’s Bright Light Vehicle Showdown and Light Parade.

Paul Bunyan Festival, Oscoda, September 18-20, 2010
Huge salute to the legendary logger includes Great Lakes Chainsaw Carving Competition, Bunyan Games such as axe throwing, and the Timberjack Show.


Elk Festival, Atlanta, September 24-26, 2010
Michigan’s “Elk Capital” celebration includes Elk Festival royalty in a float-filled parade, wagon rides, bands and competitions like the Rubber Chicken Toss and pie-eating contest.

Harvest Fest, Grayling, October 2-3, 2010
The antique tractor show, tractor parade and displays will enthrall tractor lovers, and there will be a farm market and more.

Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival, Alpena, October 7-10, 2010
The 15th annual gathering of lighthouse lovers, preservation groups, artists and authors who recognize this important part of Great Lakes history features speakers, entertainment, vendors, and tours of area lighthouses.

Upper Peninsula

100th Dickinson County Fair, Norway, September 1-6, 2010
Centennial celebration of rural living, agriculture and home arts in the Upper Peninsula.

Arts Dockside, St. Ignace, September 4-7, 2010
It’s a feast for the senses as musicians, jugglers and more than 100 visual artists fill the waterfront.

Mackinac Bridge Walk, Mackinaw City/St. Ignace, September 6, 2010
Join tens of thousands of folks in the unofficial end of summer walk across “Mighty Mac” Bridge. The five-mile-long engineering marvel links Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas high above the waters of the Straits of Mackinac, where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet.

Sibelius Academy Music Festival, Hancock, September 19-25, 2010
Visiting musicians from Finland perform traditional and contemporary Finnish music in the 12th annual program co-hosted by Finlandia University.

Oktoberfest, Newberry, October 1-3, 2010
A weekend of polka music and dancing, lumberjack breakfast, logging competition and games.

30th Annual Somewhere in Time Weekend , Mackinac Island, October 15-17, 2010
Grand Hotel is the setting for the time-travel love story starring Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour that draws fans who gather annually at the resort to dress in period clothing and experience the romance of the story.

Autumn Comforts Quilt Show , Marquette, October 16-17, 2010
More than 250 quilts on display in a bi-annual show at Northern Michigan University.

No Free Book Friday Today at Fang-tastic Books- Drop by Roxanne's Realm Instead

Since I am wrapping up Michigan month here at Fang-tastic Books I decided to showcase more of Michigan's beauty and events instead of offering Free Book Friday today.

However I am offering a Free Book Friday giveaway at Roxanne's Realm today.

I am giving away a copy of Riding the Night by Jaci Burton- it is a steamy erotic sizzler. So drop by Roxanne's Realm if you're interested in winning that book.

If you are interested in what Michigan has to offer stick around today or drop back by in a little while when I'll be posting some fun Michigan info.

Guest Blog and Giveaway with Terry Spear

This guest author and giveaway is not part of Michigan month at Fang-tastic Books

Lupus in Love The Mating Behavior of Werewolves

First, I just want everyone to know that werewolves normally get to know each other in their human forms before they mix it up much as wolves.

Here is Cassie Roux’s take on the matter:

“She hated believing they [Leidolf Wildhaven’s pack] thought she was fooling around with a lupus garou as a wolf before she’d even made his acquaintance as a human. Not that she intended to see any of these people again, but… still, she did have some pride.” – From Seduced by the Wolf, Terry Spear © 2010

There are social norms, after all, among werewolves.

I was asked in a Portland newspaper interview if I ever “show” my werewolves making out in their wolf forms. No. This is not to say they don’t. But just that I don’t show that part of their nature. Some things are just more private than others.

Did you know real wolves sometimes go off to a more secluded spot to get more—frisky? Not always. I did see a case where other wolves were watching. You know only one can have a mate in a pack normally. So all the others get to do is watch.

That’s the good thing about being a werewolf. All can have a mate, if they can find one.
Werewolves can have flings with humans, but when they settle down with a werewolf mate, that’s it. No other woman/man will ever make them stray. They’re devoted to their mate. It’s the wolf part of their psyche. One wolf mate per wolf.

But yes, there was a documented case where a wolf had two wolf mates at the same time. He was a wolf bigamist. But normally, no. One wolf mate per wolf. Of course, there always has to be an exception to the rule.

As far as lupus garous in love, they do the usual: go out on dates—dinners, dancing nice and close, play games—the more physical kind, not board games, and swim, when they can.

In Dreaming of the Wolf (Fall 2011), Jake Silver wanted to take Alicia Greiston to the drive-in for a nice movie date. He’s a wolf, what can I say??? And in Wolf Fever (December 2010), Chester Ryan McKinley offers to have a date at his room at the bed and breakfast while he curls up with Carol Wood to watch a movie. But Darien Silver, her pack leader, gives him a wry, knowing smile and suggests a date at the tavern where he and his pack members can keep an eye on him.

In Seduced by the Wolf (in stores now!), Leidolf’s tack is to play with Cassie as a wolf. And being the kind of guy he is, he lets her pin him down in a sexy kind of werewolf game of wrestling, wolf-style. Now for wolves to bare their throat to another is the ultimate in showing trust.

But the courting is tantamount to prompting the mutual agreement between two werewolves that they will love and cherish each other forever. And since they live a long time, it’s important that they are really compatible. Which means there’s a lot of give and take, like there has to be in any relationship. So when Leidolf wants Cassie to agree to mate him, she sets down some perimeters. With an alpha male, no less! But if he wants her…

Well, that’s what’s fun about falling in love with a lupus garou. Working out the details. Except that sometimes the workout makes the two forget what they were disagreeing about in the first place.

Ahh, such is the life of living as a werewolf. Now, some packs still have a gathering—a coming out of the wolf, just like in days of old for humans, and even in many places in the world still today, where women who are of age are now available in the wedding mart. Wolf Fever has such a gathering because Darien wants Carol Wood to have a mate, but that’s another story. Because they live so long, many of their traditions continue to be honored in the packs.

Unfortunately, Jake’s still looking for a drive-in movie close enough to take Alicia to in Dreaming of the Wolf. And Ian MacNeill of Heart of the Highland Wolf (Spring 2011) gets pretty frisky on a hike through his native countryside with romance werewolf author, Julia Wildthorn. While Leidolf of Seduced by the Wolf, enjoys fishing with Cassie. And well, as you can see, werewolves are just like real people. They all have their own ways to be with the one they love.

Thanks so much for having me here today at Fang-tastic Books!

If you perchance were to meet one of these veritable hunks, what would your kind of date be like?

Thanks to everyone who takes the time to drop by and say hi!

~Terry

SEDUCED BY THE WOLF BY TERRY SPEAR – IN STORES AUGUST 2010

His first priority is to protect his pack…

Werewolf pack leader Leidolf Wildhaven has just taken over a demoralized pack. With rogue wolves on the loose causing havoc and the authorities from the zoo suddenly zeroing in on the local wolf population, the last thing he needs in his territory is a do-gooder female, no matter how beautiful and enticing she is…

She’ll do anything to help wolves…

Biologist Cassie Roux has dedicated her life to protecting wolves in the wild. On a desperate mission to help a she-wolf with newborn pups, the last thing Cassie needs right now is a nosy and entirely too attractive werewolf pack leader trying to track her down…

With rogue wolves and hunters threatening at every turn, Cassie and Leidolf may find their attraction the most dangerous force of all…

About the Author

A retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry Spear has an MBA from Monmouth College. An eclectic writer, she dabbles in the paranormal as well as writing historical and true life stories for both teen and adult audiences. Spear lives in Crawford, Texas.

For more information, please visit Terry at these various places on the web:

www.terryspear.com

http://www.wickedlyromantic.blogspot.com /

http://casablancaauthors.blogspot.com/

http://fierceromance.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/terry.spear

http://shapeshifterromance.wordpress.com/

http://terry-spear.blogspot.com/

Now its contest time!!!

Who wants a copy of Seduced by the Wolf

Sourcebooks is offering 2 copies to 2 lucky winners

US and Canada Shipping Only Please

To Enter Just Leave a Comment on This Post, Be Sure To Include You Email Address

You Can Answer Terry's Above Question About A Date with A Werewolf if you wish

Bonus Entry For Being a Fang-tastic Follower

Bonus Entry for being a Twitter Follower

@Roxanne Rhoads

Bonus Entry for Friending Me On Facebook

Winner to Be Announced Next Wednesday