Trick or Treat Party at the Café

The entire month of October is one big, long party at the Cafe! Games, prizes, excerpts and Interviews with some of today’s top paranormal romance authors, and paranormal experts. The Bloody Marys are on the house. We might even have a visit from a real vampire, or a werewolf or two! Costume optional, of course! ;) So come one and come all to the greatest little party on the cyberblock! Runs October 1-31. Oh, and BYOBB (Bring Your Own Blood Bag)! No nibblers please–unless you’re a sexy he-vamp. Cackle, Cackle!

What a bizarre dream

Right now I'm at work and all I can do is yawn. I feel so tired. I wish I could go home and take a nap. (See that peaceful kitty? I'm so jealous of it.) Last night I could barely sleep. It was 1:30 am when I went to sleep after reading a few chapters of Shirley Damsgaard's latest "Ophelia and Abby Mystery" novel, The Trouble with Witches. I always need to read before going to bed. I read from midnight till 1:00 am, but the book is sooo good, I couldn't put it down. However, that's not what took my sleep away. I had the most strangest dream in which I was in a big old house. I knew I owned it and was fixing it before I moved in. I was especifically in a kind of sub-basement. Although it looked like it was also an inner from one of those old antique houses around my hometown because there were a couple of tropical plants. The walls were white. Even the stairs that led to upper part of the house. This time there weren't any windows. (When I dream about rooms, there are windows and I can see what's outside.) Three buckets of paint - one light blue, two light mint green - sat at the bottom of the stairs. Sometimes I could see scalffolds on either side of the stairs, and I kept thinking about what color to paint the walls. But somehow I knew that no matter what color I chose the place was going to look creepy. Images of that room flashed before me. Each one creepier - and scarier - than the other one. Yet I tried to convinced myself it was all in my head, and once I was through with the remodelation of the room, it would look nice. But here is where the really creepy part of the dream comes. Suddenly I felt like I was submerged and I couldn't breath. I didn't see any water, but it felt like that. I tried to wake up, but I'd open my eyes momentarily and then the dream would suck me back like it had a hold on me. I knew I had to wake up because I couldn't breath. And I felt that it wasn't just in my dream. My life - my real life - depended on me waking up and breath. I had to physically fight to sit in my bed and open my eyes long enough to keep them that way. Once I was wide awake, I looked at the clock over the table. It was 3:20 am. I tried to go back to sleep, but the dream and the feeling of being under water and not breathing would return. I was awake until almost 5:00 am because of it. What is the most weird dream that you've had?

Heart Mate Winner!

Congratulations to Jennifer Lindsey! You've won a copy of Ms. Owen's book, Heart Mate! If you didn't win this time, there are more contests and prizes on the way, here at the Midnight Moon Cafe!

Midnight Brew Presents: Robin D. Owens

A paralegal by day, Ms. Owens began writing paranormal romance in the 90's, and truly found her voice penning magickal, futuristic/fantasy romance. Her latest book, Heart Quest, was released this month by Berkley Sensation. The Midnight Moon Cafe is honored to have Ms. Owens as our guest. Thank you, Ms. Owens for taking time from your schedule to chat with us today. Cass: Do you remember the first paranormal romance you ever read? Robin: I don’t. I loved the romance in many of the fantasy novels when I was a teenager. But the first paranormal romance per se would probably be one of Jayne Ann Krentz “Jayne Castle” books, probably Crystal Flame, which remains a favorite. I was so thrilled when she read Heart Thief and loved it and gave me a cover quote saying so! Cass: Who influenced you the most in your writing? Robin: Ah, the Big Three: Nora Roberts, Jayne Ann Krentz, Linda Howard. Also Elizabeth Lowell for her excellent sensuality. Cass: When and where do you get your best writing done? Robin: Usually in the evenings. Sometimes in the mornings. I’m a contract worker and it depends on whether I have a day job. Cass: How much time do you dedicate to research for your stories? Robin: Just enough to get the book done because I can be sucked in for HOURS. Cass: Let's talk a little about world-building. How did you come up with the Celta backstory? And how does that setting affect your main characters? Robin: I usually just write and it comes out and I keep notes to be consistent. I sat down and wrote “Today you will meet your HeartMate,” that first scene and I had to come up with a world where a guy would use Divination Dice and BELIEVE them and not be considered weird or a wimp. Cass: What was your inspiration for the magickal, new-age environment you created in your Heart Mate series? Robin: I’ve been interested in new age and alternative spirituality for a long time, and took many classes in it (like Marian in Sorceress of Faith), hung out in new age bookstores, bought incense and herbs, collected tarot decks. My name is Welsh – actually my ancestors were Owen and came from Anglesey Island in Wales. The Asian, Egyptian, other backgrounds just didn’t fit as well. **Cough, cough** That was Zen, this is Tao.... Cass: Who is your sexiest hero to date and why? Robin: Tough one. Probably like books. I love the one I just finished most, hate the one I’m writing now most. So I LOVE Ilex Winterberry of Heart Quest, so cool, a detective, older yet vulnerable...Marrec in Protector of the Flight (coming February from Luna) is earthy, sexy, and again much more under the surface and underestimated, so surprising to others. I tend to do Alphas, or Charmers, or Alpha Charmers. Saille Willow who’s talking to me now, seems more laid back, but we’ll see. Cass: Let's say you've just landed a movie deal, and you get to pick the actor who'll play the hero from your latest book. Who would you pick? And why? Robin: I think I’d like Patrick Stewart (with hair) for Ilex Winterberry. He can do understated elegance so well. Cass: For those not familiar with your work, which book would you recommend to read first and why? Robin: I think Guardian of Honor is the most “accessible.” An average American woman going to another land. I ease into the other land better, I think. Cass: Do you still belong to the Lungfish Theater Improv group, and do you think doing improv honed your creativity and timing? Robin: Lungfish disbanded, but we are still friends. Usually some put on a show every year at Mile Hi Con in October. I’m not good enough to do that, I have to have practice. It taught me to think on my feet faster, gave me a different creative outlet. Yes, it helped loads. Cass: Where do you see the evolution of the paranormal sub-genre going? Robin: Expanding and thriving, I hope. Cass: What advice would you give to beginning writers? Robin: Know your craft. Never quit. Cass: Do you have a newsletter, blog, or website where fans can read about you and your books? Robin: I have a daily blog that I answer comments. My website is updated monthly and has cool prizes. http://www.robindowens.com http://www.robindowens.blogspot.com Heart Series: ****** Heart Mate ISBN: 0425212408 Berkley Sensation The Cafe is giving away a copy of Ms. Owens' book, Heart Mate to one lucky reader...if you can answer this question? What is the name of the world Ms. Owen uses as a setting in her Heart series? Email us at: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com with your name, snail mail address and your answer. Winner will be drawn at random from all correct entries, and announced here at the Cafe.

Votes and winner

Go ahead and vote! On another note, yesterday I was surfing the web, googling myself (Yes, again. It has become an obsession now.), when I ran into this survey which asks readers to choose which is their favorite ebook of the summer. Guess what? Cassandra, Cora, and I are listed! Here's the link: http://ciarcullen.blogspot.com/2006/08/vote-best-ebook-of-summer.html So go and vote! Winner of Maniac Monday! My oldest witchy girl and my best friend agreed the hunk is an incubbus, so the winner of this week's Maniac Monday is... Shadowrite Send me an email with your snail address to tempest@tempestknight.com, okay?

A Fantastic Midnight Brew

...is headed your way this Thursday, when our guest will be RITA Award Winning author, Robin Owens! A paralegal by day, Ms. Owens began writing paranormal romance in the 90's, and truly found her voice penning magickal, futuristic/fantasy romance. Her latest book, Heart Quest, was released this month by Berkley Sensation. The Cafe will be giving away a copy of Heart Mate, her first book which was re-issued in August. Read an Excerpt of Heart Mate, by Robin D. Owens.

Prize Point Announcement: Winners #7-10

It's midnight the 25th, and that means it's time to announce the final prize points in our Rock the Blog Scavenger Hunt! I think I can speak for all of us here at the cafe, and say we've had a blast and hope you've enjoyed the hunt! Now, without further delay, here's the winners we drew for our final prizes: The Winner of Prize Point #7 is: Kim Westgaard! Your prize is a $15 iTunes gift card! Now you can really Rock the Blog! Watch your snail mail! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #8 is: Deborah Chan! Your prize is a free download of Tempest Knight's eBook, Enduring Promise! Check your email! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #9 is: OMG! Deborah Chan! Your prize is a $5 gift certificate from Amber Quill Press! Check your email! You're a winner at the Cafe-- With the luck you're having, maybe you should think about a side trip to Vegas, girl! Independent draws from two different midnight mooners! You are on a roll, Deborah! The Winner of Prize Point #10 is: Cherie Japp! Your prize is a $10 gift certificate from Papa Johns Pizza! Watch your snail mail! You're a winner at the Cafe! And the winner of the Mystery Prize is: Crystal Stone! Congratulations, Crystal. You've won a beaded book thong charm, a lovely tapestry purse, and a pair of betwitching halloween moon earrings! Thank you all for helping us ROCK the BLOG this September! Cass, TK, Cora and Brandi

Maniac Monday

Imagine yourself walking down a narrow dirt path, huge trees on both sides. They grow so close, the sunlight barely pierces the shadows. You strain your ears, expecting to hear the typical sounds of nature, yet, an eerie silence has fallen since you decided to step out of the main path and take this one hours ago. You keep walking, a thin sheen of sweat in your brow, every muscle in your body is aching now. Suddenly a soft breeze blows, cooling your heated skin, carrying a soft male voice calling your name. You look around and see a cave. Curious, you enter it and notice a dim light coming from deep inside. You head toward the light and find yourself in a chamber. The flame of red and white candles illuminate the place. Your eyes travel further, and you see this gorgeous specimen of male leaning against the wall. His lips turn into a sensous smile, and he says in a deep voice, "Are you lost?" What paranormal creature (vampire, were, incubus, ghost, demon, etc) would he be? Post here your answer. If you guess what he is, I'll send you a surprise prize. *wg* One guess per post, pleeze. :)

Prize Point Announcement: Winners #4-6

It's almost midnight the 23th, and that means it's time to draw for the next three prize points! The Winner of Prize Point #4 is: Lisa Williams! Your prize is a free download of Cora Zane's eBook, Bonding Experience! Check your email! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #5 is: Ana Santiago! Your prize is a lovely beaded book thong charm, suitable for paperbacks or trade paperbacks. Watch your snail mail! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #6 is: Jenny Teo! Your prize is a $5 gift certificate from Cobblestone Press! Watch your email! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Mystery Prize will be drawn Monday, so if you haven't entered for that, check out my website blog and go to the zoo post I made earlier this month. See where it says there are comments on that post? Click there, then try a guess. If you're correct, you'll be entered to win the mystery prize. :)

The Path to Prize Point Ten:

Alert Prize Point #10! This is easy, hunters. Remember the example I gave everyone in the very first "Rock the Blog –How it Works" post at the café? I mentioned a song in the example, something about people dressed in costume at a Halloween Party…simply email us at midnightmooncafe@gmail.com and let us know the name of that paranormal themed song. The drawing for prize points 4-6 will be tonight, Saturday, Sept. 23! So remember to check back–you could be a winner! The drawing for this prize point and prize points 7-10 will be Monday at midnight! So be sure to get your answers in if you haven't already! Pizza is the perfect party food, or to eat when you're too tired to cook and want to have a special pizza night with the kids. So I bet a Papa John's Gift Card sounds pretty good and that is the prize at #10! We hope you’ve enjoyed our scavenger hunt, Rock the Blog! Hey–wanna give a shout out and congratulate all our participants! Each of you were wonderful scavenger hunters! Remember, check us out next month when we kick off our Cafe Trick or Treat Party with guest author L. Rosario! Plenty more games, contests and prizes, too–along with free downloads of new short stories by the Midnight Moon Cafe Staff! So tell your friends, The Midnight Moon Cafe is the "place" to be!

Friday Flash Fiction

The Job Never Ends ©2006, Tempest Knight I pulled the silver stake from the puddle of what once had been a vampire. A minor vampire. Under 50 years old. Not very powerful. But a sadistic one. The bastard had physically and mentally raped 200 women in the USA this year alone. Until now. He'd picked me up at the rave club hoping to make me his victim #201. But he hadn't expected this "victim" to fight him. Or stick a silver stake through his heart. Without a second glance, I walked back to my SUV parked close to the alley. Black gooey dripped from the stake, and smoke rose from it. The stench was overwhelming. I poured holy water over it. Once clean, I shoved it in the gym bag with the others. I hefted the bag and winced. My left shoulder had taken the brunt when the vampire had shoved me against the wall. Tomorrow it was going to hurt like a bitch. After dropping it on the passenger seat, I pulled some wet towels from the glove compartment and cleaned the dry blood stuck on my skin. The vampires’. Not mine. A good sign of a good hunt. I slipped into my SUV and looked at my watch. 4:00 AM. After the adrenaline rush, tiredness was sipping in. I needed coffee. Yeah, a big dose of caffeine would do my body good. I parked in front of the Midnight Moon Café. I grabbed a silver stiletto and slipped it on my boot before I walked in. I never asked for trouble, but trouble always seemed to find me. I liked to be prepared. The place was almost empty, except for a young Goth woman sitting on a table with a laptop opened and a couple of werewolves drinking coffee and chatting at the counter. Good. I hated crowded places. I leaned against the counter. "Hey, Cassie. Send some coffee." The red-headed waitress wrote it down, and with a nod, she turned to fill my order. "Black," I added over my shoulder as I headed toward the booth on the far back. As I slid in, the bells over the door jingled. A tall figure stood on the threshold. My eyes widened. I hadn’t met the man face to face, yet, but I’d seen him a few times in public appearances from afar. Always surrounded by those damn vampires. Well, well, well. The night isn't over and it's already getting interesting. His obsidian hair fell in soft curls down to his collar. His lips were lush, yet masculine. I wondered... I shook my head. Don't go there, sistah. I couldn’t tell the color of his eyes from this distance. My gaze lazily trailed over his body. Broad shoulders, narrow hips. The loose slacks couldn't hide his powerful legs. A man used to exercise. Pampered by vampires, I’d expect him to be fat and flabby. He exuded an aura of subtle sensuousness. Stop that. Remember who he is. With eyes narrowed slightly and a smirk on my lips, I studied him again. If he was trying to blend in, he was doing a lousy job. Although he was dressed casually, his expensive clothes singled him out. As if sensing my thorough inspection, his gaze went to where I was sitting. I quickly lowered my eyes and leaned further back into the seat, trying to keep my presence concealed. As if. For once I wished this damn place was crowded. I could feel his penetrating eyes on me. Or maybe I was being paranoid. I risked a peek anyway and watched him walked toward the booth on the opposite side of the café. Nice butts. I shook my head again. Great. I wasn't even an "ass" woman. He slid into the booth and seemed to greet someone. I craned a bit but I couldn't see the other person. I nibbled my lower lip as I considered my next move. His presence here intrigued me. Surely he wasn't here for a cup of coffee. But before I made up my mind, I noticed him slide off the booth and leave the coffee shop in a hurry. As I was to get up and follow him, a white-blond vampire appeared from the booth, and I gasped in surprised. What the hell is he doing here? That moment of distraction cost me. His eyes connected with mine and held my gaze. Electricity surged through me, heating my body. I closed my eyes and shook her head. Double damn! The vampire was trying to bespell me. When I opened them, he was standing three feet away from me. His blue-within-blue eyes swirled. His smile full of seduction. "Good evening, Madame." His French-accented voice was like soft, cool velvet brushing against my heated skin. I couldn’t help rubbing my arms. It was then his gaze fell on the bruises, already turning a ghastly yellowish and black. "Someone I knew," he asked. His voice had suddenly grown dark and deep, a dangerous edge creeping in it. His eyes cold, devoid of emotions. I slid my arms off the table and shrugged. What could I say? Maybe? "Here's your coffee, hon." For a moment my glance flickered to Cassie, who was placing a cup of the steamy black liquid on the table, and then back to where the vampire was. Gone. "Thanks." Ignoring the smell of freshly brewed java beans, I took a good sip. A powerful new vampire and a high-ranking man in the Master Vampire entourage. My mind was swirling with questions. Why were they meeting in a place like this? Then another question popped in my head. What could have that vampire told him that made him almost run out of here? Something wicked this way comes. "Oh, hi. My name is Jean Malone," a young blond woman babbled in a rush as she slid on the opposite chair, jarring me out of my muse. She looked around nervously. I just arched my eyebrow and kept drinking my coffee. "Th-they told me... I mean... Uh. A-are you--?" "Star. Calista Star. Demon slayer. Ghost buster. Werewolf hunter. All around spook for otherworldly creatures. Both alive or undead."

Spot tempest - Update! Read my interviews!

I rarely google myself like most authors do. Some of my fellow writers find reviews of their books that they didn't know have been posted. I admit I'm lazy in that area. I know I should google myself often, but I forget. So last night after answering a couple of emails, I dropped by Google and did some research. Well, well, well... Lookie here. Heh! I found the inteview Crystal Jordan did to me for her blog had already been posted. And I didn't even know! Go and check it out! Oh, and please, leave a comment on it, letting know you were there. *wg* Speaking of interviews, Holly from The Romance Studio interviewed me for the October edition. In October they'll also have Cheyenne McCray. I'm so excited! Hehehe! Oh! And before I forget. This Sunday, Sept. 24, some lucky winner will get a free copy of my vampire erotic romance, Enduring Promise. Check out Book-a-day at The Romance Studio. Okay, here's something else I found on Google. Totally cool! During the interview to Bella Tyler at Amanda Ramblings, she mentioned she was reading Enduring Promise. *blushes* I hope she had liked the story... *g* Update! Fellow Cobblestone Press writer Madison Chase just informed me that she has posted the fabulous interview she did to me on her blog. *wg* It's so totally revealing, I feel naked just reading it. Go and check it out!!! Oh, and don't forget to leave her a message letting her know what you think. ;)

Prize Points Announcement: Winners 1-3

It's midnight the 19th, and that means it's time to draw for the first three prize points! The Winner of Prize Point #1 is: Shuck Ying Chin! Your prize is a free download of Cassandra Curtis' eBook, I Put A Spell On You! Check your email! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #2 is: Cherie Japp! Your prize is a lovely beaded book thong charm, suitable for paperbacks or trade paperbacks. Watch your snail mail! You're a winner at the Cafe! The Winner of Prize Point #3 is: Ana Santiago! Your prize is a set of six all natural soy aromatherapy (votive) candles handcrafted by MotherHerb. Watch your snail mail! You're a winner at the Cafe! Congratulations to all the Prize Point Winners!

The Path to Prize Point #7: Audio Clue

Witches delight, magickal might, Gold Dust woman, "ring" a bell in the night. Have you been having fun Rockin' the Blog? Find the audio clue we've hidden at one of our member's My Space and hit play. If you choose the right Cafe member's My Space and the right song, then you'll be able to answer this: She was only 17 when she joined her first band and met Lyndsey Buckingham. Come back to this post and leave a comment–Name the songstress to unlock the next clue. Remember: Prize Point Seven is a neat little prize.

Winner of Maniac Monday

Okay, the winner of the Maniac Monday: 70's Flashback is... jennybrat Our paranormal hero of the 70s was a werewolf. How did my two goddaughters know it? "The big teeth! To eat better!" *lol* Children say the darnest thing, eh? *winks* Jennybrat send me an email at tempest@tempestknight.com Remember to write Maniac Monday: 70's Flashback in the subject. *g*

Maniac Monday: 70's Flashback

Today's paranormal hero comes from the era of big fros, bra burning, and disco music - the 70s. (It was good to be a child of the 70s!) With his big teeth ...er... smile, this hot hunk became the latin lover in every woman's fantasy. But secretly he has lived his other life. Many speculated that he was a vampire. Others a werewolf. Now some say he's a ghost. Can you guess what he is? I'll give a prize to whoever guesses correctly. One guess per poster, please. *g*

Just A Reminder: Drawings for the Rock the Blog Hunt

Drawing for prizes 1-3: Midnight, September 19 Drawing for prizes 4-6: Midnight, September 23 Drawing for prizes 7-10: Midnight, September 25 If you haven't found 1-3 yet, you only have until Tuesday night to find them and email us with the correct answers!

The Vampire (poem)

"The Vampire" (1897) Rudyard Kipling A fool there was and he made his prayer (Even as you and I!) To a rag and a bone and a hunk of hair (We called her the woman who did not care) But the fool he called her his lady fair (Even as you and I!) Oh, the years we waste and the tears we waste And the work of our head and hand Belong to a woman who did not know (And now we know that she never could know) And did not understand! A fool there was and his goods he spent (Even as you and I!) Honour and faith and a sure intent (And it wasn't the least what the lady meant) But a fool must follow his natural bent (Even as you and I!) Oh the toil we lost and the spoil we lost And the excellent things we planned Belong to the woman who didn't know why (And now we know that she never knew why) And did not understand! The fool was stripped to his foolish hide (Even as you and I!) Which she might have seen as she threw him aside (But it isn't on record the lady tried) So some of him lived but the most of him died (Even as you and I!) And it isn't the shame and it isn't the blame That stings like a white hot brand It's coming to know that she never knew why (Seeing, at last, she could never knew why) And never could understand!

Doing the shimmy, butt wiggle dance!

Cora and I have something that has us making the butt wiggle dance. *wg* Enchanted Ramblings reviewed Cora's Crossing Borders and gave it 5 magic wands! (Yay!!! Congrats, Cora!) Here's what Tralana said: "This was a nice, quick read. Cole is another alpha to love, after all he came after Laney, risking death to claim her. The sex was hot, their situation dangerous, the story fast. I enjoyed Ms Zane’s writing, and look forward to reading a longer story by her." - Enchanted Ramblings And the reviews didn't end there! Heh! The Literary Nymphs gave it 4 nymphs! Check it out: "This story had strong characters and a great plot with wonderful love scenes and gritty fight scenes. Take time to read this book. Readers of paranormal romance will enjoy it." Enchanted Ramblings also viewed my story, Enduring Promise, and gave it 5.5 magical wands. *wiggle wiggle* Here's what Astraea said: "This is a great sensual paranormal romance. The tension between the two sizzles and each time they make love is more intense than the last. Even though this is a short story it reads like a full length and will leave you wanting for nothing." - Enchanted Ramblings I'm still grinning from ear to ear. *lol*

The Winners of the Sexy Witch contest

The Winner of a Copy of Sexy Witch Is... Pamela K. Kinney Congratulations! Your name was drawn from our magickal hat. More books and prizes await, so for those who didn't win, keep trying. Your name may be the next winner at the Cafe! Sexy Book Thong Winner is... Richelle! Congratulations! Please contact us with your snail mail addy, so we can send you a sexy book thong! Thanks for commenting and playing!

Scavenger Hunters on the Path to 5

Your next clue will lead you on the path to prize point five. If you can answer this, you'll be fit as a fiddle, and ready for the next riddle. What subject in school did Tess Warner (heroine of I Put A Spell On You) get "A's" in? Note: You don't need to buy my book or have read it to answer this, but I won't object if you do. LOL

The Cafe's Midnight Brew Presents: LaSara FireFox

Writer, ritualist, sex-positive activist and educator, Ms. FireFox is a true Renaissance woman. Her zest for life, and her focus on empowering women to seek the sexy, powerful witch within, makes her a sought-after speaker. She also designs/facilitates a wide variety of interactive, exploration-based workshops, with subjects ranging from How to Get Exactly the Relationship You Want; to Initiating a Body of Love; and of course: Sexy Witch, Touching the Power Inside: A Women’s Self-Discovery Series with Context. Ms. FireFox has been featured on Sony Pictures Television’s Life & Style, Playboy TV’s Sexcetera, Canada’s Sex TV, and Dr. Block’s Speakeasy. With the publication of her latest book, Sexy Witch, Ms. FireFox helps initiate readers into the mysteries of their own bodies, psyches and power. Cass: Welcome to the Midnight Moon Café. I am thrilled you could stop by and chat for a minute. I have some questions ready, and I know our readers are eager to learn more about you and your latest book, Sexy Witch! Q: What motivated you to write Sexy Witch? LaSara: I came from a very non-traditional background, and even at that I had, and still have, my personal "unpacking" to do regarding my sexuality, relationship with my body, and my relationship with power as a woman. I had offered workshops on these topics for years, and saw the real need for this healing on a cultural, and even global, level. Sexy Witch was born of my desire to create an opportunity for that healing. Q: What is a "sexy witch"? LaSara: You are! Anyone, male or female, has the power of the Sexy Witch lurking. And sometimes it's not lurking; it's front and center. Q: In your book you say there is a "sexy witch" inside each woman, can you elaborate more on that? LaSara: Being a Sexy Witch is about owning and standing in our power, developing a sweet and compassionate relationship with our bodies - including, but not limited to, our sweet, pink parts–and feeling our way into an empowered, peaceful, present and strong relationship with our sexuality. For most all off us to get to that place, there is a certain amount of off-loading of conditioning we must achieve. Sexy Witch offers a framework within which to do that work, with the ideal of leaving each person who works the book in touch with their sexuality and power. One of the things that makes Sexy Witch different than a lot of what's out there is that the focus is on self-referential sexuality, as opposed to interactive. I believe that becoming sexually present is not possible with another until we've achieved sexual presence in our own rite/right. Q: Can you tell us more on the body-mind-soul relationship? LaSara: In my experience I find that body/mind/soul are not distinct, separate entities. A lot of what I offer, in Sexy Witch and in the other work that I do, is a variety of experiences and tools that bring the consciousness around to a "holistic"/wholisitic relationship with Being. And in my experience, Being is an experience that pulls all of those "frames" together. Mind is an abstract concept. As my NLP instructor Tim Hallbom would say, "you can't put it in a wheelbarrow." You can't pick the mind up. You can pick the brain up. The concept of the mind is an abstraction on the process of thought, memory, cogitation. Thought is a physiological process; the mind is not something other than the body. Spirit is a more tricky question, and one that I think deserves to be left up to personal interpretation. My belief is that we are all god, for lack of a less loaded term, interacting with god's self. I feel like the more I can remember that we are the same stuff, and perhaps even the same being, it becomes easier to cultivate compassion for myself, and for all beings. Q: Is there an age limit to free our inner "sexy witch"? Is it possible to be too young or too old for that? LaSara: Not as I see it. We are born as sexual creatures, and if we are lucky enough not to have it beaten out of us - figuratively or literally - we die as sexual beings. That doesn't necessarily mean that we are being interactively sexual. But our sexual relationship with ourselves is known, for some, to begin in the womb. There are actually ultrasound photos of self-pleasuring occurring in utero. On the other end of the spectrum, sexuality in aging has become a much more accepted topic lately, but we still have some work to do in that arena. And, the self-defining work available in Sexy Witch will inevitably help us to grow older with more acceptance and awareness of our bodies, and our sexual desires and needs. Q: What do you mean by the term sight beyond sight? LaSara: It's poetic way of saying "inner sight" or magickal sight. Sight beyond sight is about seeing the future, the past, what's possible, what has been dreamed. It's about bringing our focus to a sight that is not only experienced with the eyes. Q: What's with the "pussy-gazing"? A lot of women feel uncomfortable looking "down there". How important is it for us women to explore our "pussies"? LaSara: A lot of women are uncomfortable talking about our sexual anatomy, touching it, or even becoming conscious of it's existence. Here are some basic reasons that becoming "pussy proud" is of benefit; 1. Health reasons. If we know what our pussy looks like, smells like, tastes like when it is healthy, we will have more awareness if anything goes out of whack. 2. Tastes like? Ewww, right? Well, hopefully not! There is nothing to lose, and everything to gain by becoming comfortable enough with our own fluids to really get to know them, viscerally. I mean, if you don't love your pussy enough to smell it and taste it, how are you going to really feel comfortable asking someone else to do the honors? Q: Can you tell us a little about your workshops? LaSara: My workshops cover a lot of ground, but my most popular series is my stuff on flirting. I call those my "flirtshops" and "flirt fests." I'm actually getting ready to launch some new programs in that arena, and will be setting up a website in the near future. It will be dedicated solely to my role as the Flirt Guru! Stay tuned for more info, for sure. My upcoming plans have me REALLY excited. These plans include the publication of my second book; Ecstatic Flirting, sometime in 2007, as well as the launch of my flirting information materials (cds, dvds, Flirt Party kits, and more) for those of you who can't make it to the Bay Area to take a workshop with me, or who want more than I can give you in a few, short hours. It's all got me pretty fired up. I'm really ready to make this stuff widely available. Like with Sexy Witch, I have seen amazing healing and transformation occur through these workshops. And that really keeps me motivated. I mean, who doesn't want to have an easier time making connections, whether sexual, community and friendship building, or business related. I believe we're all seeking connection, and I love that I can offer a framework to help people get really resourceful in that process. Q: Do you think a man is sexier with or without his clothes? LaSara: It really depends on the man! Do I prefer a man clothed or naked? Again, it depends on the man. My lovers? I prefer my lovers to be naked as much of the time as possible, and playing with me for hours and hours. The bed, the floor, the wall, the table...Yum! Q: Do you have a newsletter? Website? LaSara: I have a newsletter (mailto: This-is-Revolution-subscribe@googlegroups.com) and a website (www.lasara.us). As I said earlier, I will also have a second website up soon, devoted solely to my "flirtshops." I really encourage any of you readers who are interested in my work to get on the newsletter list. That's the place to be to find out what I'm up to, and to hear about what's coming up next! It'll give you an opportunity to see my new flirting site, once it's up. That site is going to be really FUN, so don't let yourself miss out. On that note, I will, in the near future, be offering weekend-long flirting workshops approximately once a month around the SF Bay Area, the North Bay, and perhaps even in the Central Coast. As a special offer to Midnight Moon Cafe readers, mention this interview and get a full scholarship! Details when you e-mail me. (mailto: info@lasara.us) Cass: Thank you so much for this opportunity to have you as our guest! LaSara: Thanks for having me. It's been a pleasure. Sexy Witch is available in bookstores now! ISBN: 0-7387-0752-X, Llewellyn Worldwide, Price: $14.95 US, $19.95 CAN, trade paperback. Would you like a chance to win your own copy of Sexy Witch by LaSara FireFox? Name the title of the anthology which includes a narrative essay by LaSara. *hint-–search her website at http://www.lasara.us for the answer, and email us at: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com with your answer and your smail mail address. The winner will be pulled at random from all correct entries and announced here at the Café. Want to win a sexy book thong? Leave a comment here at Midnight Brew, on this post. Winner will be chosen in a random drawing from readers who leave a comment. Anonymous posters are ineligible.

Another Clue for Scavenger Hunters!

Are you ready for a clue to lead you to #4? I saw a werewolf with a Chinese menu in his hand Walking through the streets of Soho in the rain He was looking for a place called Lee Ho Fook's Going to get himself a big dish of beef chow mein. Cora, she write werewolf tales, Brandi, she do too. Cora she got powerful mojo, make all the male werewolves howl at the moon! If you want the prize to 4, you gonna have to knock at her door. :)

New Feature at the Midnight Moon Cafe

In September, October and November, The Cafe will host guest author Q&A's we like to call Midnight Brew. Our first Midnight Brew will be this Thursday, September 14th, with author and sexual empowerment expert LaSara FireFox. LaSara FireFox is a writer, ritualist, sex-positive activist and educator, and designer/facilitator of a wide variety of interactive, exploration-based workshops. She has been featured on Sony Pictures Television’s Life & Style, Playboy TV’s Sexcetera, Canada’s Sex TV, and Dr. Block’s Speakeasy. You may have recently seen her on HBO TV's (Penn & Teller's Bullshit) segment on abstinence. LaSara believes that the most revolutionary, and perhaps evolutionary, act we can engage in is to become healthy, strong and empowered. By encouraging women to move from body shame to body acceptance, from genital shame to pussy pride, and from sexual fear and disempowerment to a new, self-defined relationship with their own sexuality. With the publication of her latest book, Sexy Witch, Ms. FireFox helps initiate readers into the mysteries of their own bodies, psyches and power. Her website is www.lasara.us We'll also be giving away a copy of Ms. FireFox's book, Sexy Witch, to one lucky reader! So mark your calenders for September 14!

Good 4 U, Did You Find Prize #2?

If not, go back two steps and try again. But if you're ready for the hunt for #3, come a little closer and listen to me. A sensuous whisper, an earthly delight, but first and foremost–which one is right? Follow the clues in the order you see, or surely you'll be lost for an eternity....mwahahaha.....

Too funny!

The vampire movie of the week: Now I know why those darn stapplers like to pinch my fingers and draw blood. *lol* **** Next clue: The Midnight Moon Cafe is open 24/7, but I have an office. Find the Cafe's website and go there now.

Another Clue just for you...

Once you've gotten TK's number, don't get discouraged, I have another. But I can't tell you, unless you email me, and say how many bodies you see, at her home page, on her opening screen. one by one, two by two, follow the clues all in order. CC

Rock The Blog...Here is your first clue!

If you want to complete this rhyme, you'll have to travel back in time. C.C. is waiting for you at her site on the 7th, to tell you a scary tale and take you for a ghostly ride...

Rock The Blog Scavenger Hunt

Here's how it works. Hidden scattered among our individual websites, blogs and here at the Cafe are clues which will direct you to the next clue. But it's up to you to decipher them. At certain stages, we'll have prize points. How can you tell if you're at a prize point? Easy. Typed underneath the clue will be the words: email us and there will be a number. When you signed up for the hunt, you emailed us at: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com , so when you see "email us", you know you're at a prize point. Simply email us again (with the subject head: Prize Point Clue No.__), and tell us your best guess based on that clue, along with your complete name and snail mail address. Please also state that you are over 18, therefore eligible to win. If you are correct, your name will be added to the magickal hat for the drawing at that prize level. Only one name/email address will be drawn for each prize point. That's why it's crucial to always follow the clues in the correct order and to contact us when you reach a prize point. Sometimes you may be required to search the internet to help understand some of the clues, and that is allowed. Ask.com, Goggle, Yahoo search, Wikipedia--any of these are acceptible. In fact, if you get stuck, you have one free life line per week, where you can contact me, or another Cafe worker for directions, just email. Be forwarned, our help may be a clue in itself, or a misdirection! Depends on each of our moods that day–the shifting tides and the moon. So it's a good idea to check the moon phases chart on the Cafe blog first. Hint *I'm good to contact on a witching moon and a waxing moon.* So–what are you supposed to look for? You'll be given a clue at the start, here at the Cafe. That clue will direct you where you are supposed to go next, but the direction is a riddle of sorts and the answer is a clue. Here's a brief (and simplistic) example of what I mean: Creature Dance Party. Use your Lycan Instinct to find the next clue. If you look at the Cafe blog, you'll see, hidden in plain sight, a book cover by the Cafe's partner-in-crime, Brandi Broughton. It says Lycan Instinct. It's her book. That means the next clue will be either at her website or on her individual blog. The clue Creature Dance Party isn't clear yet--until you search her sites and think about what you could be looking for. And there it is, on her blog! A photo of people dressed in Halloween costumes dancing and having a ghoulishly good time. :) The clue underneath the photo say: Where's the dance music, we wanna mash! So, you have costumed creatures at a party, dancing and they want to mash? Have you guessed it yet? Yep Monster Mash! Now where do you go? Ah...you are on track, so make sure it's not a prize point before you leave. Also near the picture may be your next clue, so check it out. It could be as simple as return to the cafe. Or it could be words in a post that don't seem to fit. You need not search months worth of archives. Clues will not be in any other month than this one. :) I mean, we do want folks to finish, after all. LOL Clues will be added as the contest progresses. After all, we don't want ya'll jumping ahead of yourselves! :D So, if you get stuck, maybe you need to wait for the next clue.... ;) Drawings will be held all through the month. That's why it's important for everyone to reach prize points soon as they can. Dates of the drawings will be posted on the MMC website and blog (once we have enough folks reach the prize points), along with a list of the current winners. To collect your prize: Winners will be notified by email of their win and prizes sent to the snail mail address you provided in the (prize point) email you sent us. A list of the current winners will also be posted on the blog and our website. Oh–if you have any questions about the contest, the prizes or the MMC in general, please post a comment to this article, and one of us will get back to you. :) Cass Drawing for prizes 1-3: Midnight, September 19 Drawing for prizes 4-6: Midnight, September 23 Drawing for prizes 7-10: Midnight, September 25 Prize Points– # 1: a free download of I Put A Spell On You by Cassandra Curtis # 2: a beaded book thong charm # 3: a set of six all natural soy aromatherapy (votive) candles # 4: a free download of Bonding Experience by Cora Zane # 5: a beaded book thong charm # 6: a $5 gift certificate from Cobblestone Press # 7: a $15 iTunes gift card # 8: a free download of Enduring Promise by Tempest Knight # 9: a $5 gift certificate from Amber Quill Press #10:a $10 Papa John's Pizza gift card

Flash Fiction Friday

First Impressions ©2006, Cassandra Curtis A keen sense of observation has kept me alive more times than I want to think about. So I immediately noticed the potential problem on our hands when he walked in the Café. Tall, dark and dangerous guys I can handle. It’s the quiet, non-descriptive ones that scare me. And this guy scared me plenty. He looked to be in his late twenties, and about three inches taller than my own five foot seven. Dressed in jeans, a t-shirt and high-tops. No tats, or distinguishing marks. Like I said, he was your average Joe. He walked over to a table and sat down–folded his hands. Oh yeah, trouble. If TK is the brains of our outfit, then I’m the brawn…if you can call it that. I don’t do martial arts, or pack heat. I instead rely on my rapier wit and magickal charms. If this turned ugly, we were in for some serious shit. The Café is open 24/7, and while we do a brisk business, we do have slow times. Thankfully, the place was near deserted. Nothing worse than innocent bystanders getting hurt. The other lone patron was a regular, named J.T. She sat in a far corner, sipping rich, Italian espresso and typing on her laptop. She was also quiet. Typical browser. She’d come into the Café, look around, order her usual, and never make a comment. As I approached Average Joe’s table, I noticed he was staring straight down at the wood laminate surface. Someone had written in ink, “Witches Do It In Circles.” Real funny. They also wrote it in magickal ink, so no matter how much I scrub the table, the damn thing always reappears. “Enjoying the view?” I had to say something to the guy, and I figured I might as well begin with an opening salvo. He looked up at me and I could see his eyes full of swirling colors. Not sure if I stood there for minutes or seconds, but I knew one thing. I was in deep doo-doo, ‘cause I saw his lips move and didn’t hear a damn word. I took one step back, then another before I froze. I tried to break eye contact, but he was too powerful. My mind raced. What the hell kind of Para was he, anyway? A shiver danced along my arms, and down my belly. If I could reach the charm bags in my pockets I could break his spell. Instead, my hands refused to obey my will–only his. My fingers fumbled with the buttons on my cotton blouse as heat pooled between my legs. The bastard smiled now. Damn, a gal likes to be asked first. I redoubled my efforts. He was using some sort of hypnotic mind control. My blouse hit the floor, my hands already guided to the back strap hooks of my bra. Someone shoved me sideways and told me to close my eyes. I heard the crackling of power unleashed and a whiff of sulfur in the air. A hand clasped mine and pull me to my feet. J.T. stood in front of me. “You okay?” “What the hell just happened?” She bent to retrieve my blouse. “Here. You need to put this back on.” I slid my arms in the sleeves, feeling more than a little freaked as I re-buttoned my shirt. “You almost got yourself snared by a Sex Fiend.” “A what?” “A Fiend. A type of Para-creature that needs a specific element to survive. Some say Vamps fall into this category, since they need blood to survive. Your guy at the table was a Sex Fiend. He needed sex to survive. Problem is, most fiends don’t ask first. They mesmerize their victims, then take what they want. At least vamps weave a bit of desire in their victims’ minds, make it pleasurable for both parties. A true fiend doesn’t worry with that.” “I had no idea such a thing existed. Thank you, J.T. I’m glad you were here.” “No problem.” I looked over at the now empty table and the pile of dust on the floor beside it. “That what’s left of him?” “Yes. You can sweep it up and throw it in the trash without any worries.” “How come he didn’t ensnare you, too?” “ I have a natural immunity to mind control.” She flashed me a wide grin and went back to her laptop and espresso. The tips of her fangs glinted in the moonlight.

Full Moon's names

You've heard of the Harvest Moon and the Blue Moon, right? But have you ever heard people calling the Full Moon of June generally by the epithet of the Rose Moon, Flower Moon, or Strawberry Moon? Or the Full Moon of July the Thunder Moon? Each of the full have a name. You see, all full moons drew attention by the way they dominate the sky, shinning its pale rays upon the land, from dusk to dawn. Early tribes and settlers marked their months from full moon to full moon, giving them a distinct name to each full moon. It was also a way to keep track of the seasons. These names were applied to the whole month between full moons. The full moon names weren't incidental. The descriptive names were given according to what was happening in nature. For instance, the full moon of November is called Beaver Moon because it was time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Here's a list of the names of the full moons according to the Celts and Neo-pagans. January - Wolf Moon February - Storm Moon, Ice Moon, Snow Moon March - Worm Moon April - Pink Moon May - Hare Moon or Flower Moon June - Mead Moon or Strawberry Moon July - Buck Moon August - Corn Moon or Sturgeon Moon September - Harvest Moon October - Blood Moon, Hunter's Moon November - Beaver Moon December - Cold Moon (You can also check other full moons names.) If there are two full moons on the same month, the second one is called Blue Moon. The moon isn't really blue, but sometimes it does take a bluish tinge. Two full moons in one month are pretty rare, so the saying "Once in a blue moon..." Perhaps something that some don't know is that if there two new moons on the same month, the second one is called a Faery Moon. ***** The gorgeous hunk in the bathtub in our Tuesday to Play contest was a selkie. The winner of the Tuesday to Play are... Stacy Dawn and ABookworm! Email me your snail addresses to: tempest@tempestknight.com Honorable mention goes to my dear friend Cora for the totally ...er... inspiring image of him as a sponge. I know a lot of women here thank you for it. *winks*

Are U Ready to Rock the Blog?

Part musical, part literary and lots of fun, the Café is starting our September kick-off with a scavenger hunt! Scattered within our websites, individual blogs and at the café, are clues that will eventually lead to some really nifty little prizes. Like free copies of our ebooks/gift certificates, iTunes gift card, aroma candles, bewitchingly beautiful book thongs, and more... The first clue will be officially posted on Saturday, September 9th here at the Midnight Moon Café. But–to play you must register first. To sign in, send an email to: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com, and in the subject line type: I Wanna Rock The Blog. Sign-ups will be accepted until midnight September12th. The hunt officially ends September 25. For more details, stop back by the Café later this week.

Tuesday to Play: Guess what paranormal hero he is!

Yep. Tell me...oh tell me... what paranormal hero would this piece of maleness be? Is he a warlock? A merman? A ghost? A werewolf? A vampire? A gargoyle? A ghoul? Post your answer now! My cousin already chose what he is. If any of you guess right, I'll send you a mystery prize. *wg*

Sexy Gargoyles, oh my!

Looking for something different from vampires, big cats, or werewolves? Check out Vickie Taylor's Carved in Stone. They are the gargoyles--a race of shape-changing immortals who have watched over humanity through the ages. But now, they must fight for something more... Nathan Cross has lived 14 lifetimes, and he no longer wants to go on. It is his duty to protect humankind from evil, but he exists in darkness, cursed with the knowledge that his race is dying out. However, during a gala at the Chicago Museum of Fine Arts he sees Rachel Vandemere and is instantly drawn to her. Rachel is haunted by her past. Years ago, she witnessed the brutal urder of her parents by a demonic creature. Now as an Interpol agent, she tracks the strange clues she believes will lead her to her parents killer... and which has inevitably lead her to cross paths with Nathan. This book is a 2005 Berkley Sensation release. It's very original and shouldn't be missed by lovers of the paranormal!

A Sunday Afternoon Writing Exercise--Clustering

I'm not sure about anyone else, but there are days when I sit down at the computer to write and nothing comes to me. Not a single word or phrase. I just sit there and stare at the screen, knowing I should type something, but it feels as though I've completely run out of ideas. My uncle brought me a book recently called Writing the Natural Way, by Gabriele Lusser Rico. This book shows you how to generate ideas through clustering, and how to distinguish patterns among the clusters. I've tried dozens of self-help for writers books, and I was skeptical when I saw this one. But sometimes when faced with a blank page, anything is preferrable to nothing, right? I had a little free time this afternoon and I decided to give clustering a try. The idea behind this is to take a single word or topic, and branch ideas off of that one word. For my exercise, I chose the word ghost. I went from having no idea what I wanted to write about, to this: The page is a little hard to read (it's dark and my handwriting is crap), so here's a rough list of the clustered words I came up with in association with ghost: *bodiless/incorporeal/transparent--lonely/misunderstood/afraid/scary *paranormal/haunting/poltergeist/telekinetic phenomenon *forgotten/lost/angel--fallen/lonely--vampire/eternal/ nocturnal *moaning/chains--attic/creaking boards--stairs/old house/old Victorian *sorrow Wow! That's a lot of ideas from one word. I can even see a few reoccurring themes and patterns in my thinking. I was also able to piece together a rough idea for a short story out of the clustered ideas, and by creating a new cluster that I wrote out for the heroine. Hmm... I decided to try this for a few other wips I have been tinkering with lately, all with similar results. I am not saying this will write a book for you, but I thought I'd share because it's something fast and easy to try when you need to get those creative juices flowing. Too, it's one of those types of writing exercises you can do anywhere--which is a decided plus! If any of you try this with some success, post about it and let us know. Or, if you have any other writing rituals/exercises you do to give yourself a creative jumpstart, feel free to share! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Below is Ms. Rico's website incase anyone might be interested in checking out her work. Her website contains more examples of clustering as well the theory behind her method, sample vignettes, and writing activities. It's worth a look! http://www.gabrielerico.com/

Flash Fiction Friday

The Wolf Wore Leather Pants © 2006 Cassandra Curtis Janelle gripped the steering wheel, and pressed her forehead against the hard rubber. Stupid car, sputtering and steaming till it died. Why the hell did she think it would be cool to pull off the interstate and snap pictures of old Route 66? If not for her brilliant detour, she'd be at the hotel in Taos, comfortable. Now look at her! Stuck on the shoulder of a broken down road in the middle of nowhere! The sun settled below the horizon–dusk–a twilight time. Her favorite band had a song called Twilight. Saved by the moon from the dark edge of night... She wiped a careless hand across her wet cheeks. Crying wouldn't solve anything. Unlike the song, Lady Luna had no plan to save her. She drew a shaky breath and leaned out the car. Might have to hitch. Prayed for an hour it wouldn't come to that, but she had no food, no water, a busted radiator and her cell phone couldn't get a signal. The last car drove past two hours ago–sped by without a glance from the people inside. Like she was invisible. Her problem wasn't theirs. The dangers of hitch-hiking flashed through her mind. What choice did she have? She heard a throaty rumble in the distance. As it came closer, she saw it was a black chopper. The biker slowed and pulled up beside her. "Need a ride?" He flipped up the visor on his helmet–the voice, a gravel deep masculine sound that pulsed through her. Black hair hung half-way down the back of his leather jacket. His thigh muscles strained the leather pants. Dark amber eyes looked back at her. She looked around. Who knew when the next vehicle would pass by? And they may not stop. "Yeah. Where you headed?" "Does it matter?" "I'm going to Taos. Could you take me there?" "Honey, you're about seventy miles from Taos. How 'bout I take you to the nearest gas station. You can get a tow from there." "Okay. Thanks." She grabbed her purse and swung a leg over the back of the motorcycle. If he tried anything, she still had the mace keyring in her purse. His body gave off heat, and a faint scent–musk–and all male. "What's your name?" "Janelle. What's your's?" "Wolfe." He handed her a helmet, adding, "Put this on." She scooted closer to his back and adjusted the chin strap. "Wrap your arms around me, Janelle and try to stay on the bike. We're gonna ride." She did as he said, and saw the smile he flashed her in the side mirror. A glistening white smile...with a set of very long canines.