Holding my feet to the fire

I've been working on this cool new book, Auntie Vamp, but I've been procrastinating. So thanks to prodding, I'm going to post my progress.

Unlike the Blood Wings series, this book is much more lighthearted - less politics, funnier, and is a straightforward coming of age erotic story.

It is the story of Holly Barros-Shepherd, a young woman attending the University of Washington,  majoring in international paranormal relations. (Ok, so I can't escape politics all the way).

I think Holly looks a little like this, but shyer. Not as confident as Ms. Hayek, but determined.  She's just turned 21, and will be finishing her BA during the summer. Her parents are perhaps, just a teensy tiny bit, overly protective of her.

Selma Hayek

Ever since she was seventeen, she's been engaged to "the former boy next door", Blaine Harrington. Blaine and his family used to be next door neighbors with the Shepherds, but his father made good in the '90s boom and moved them to expensive Mercer Island.

Yes, Blaine looks like young Brad Pitt. What is the point of writing erotica if you can't be inspired by pretty people? ;)

Unbeknownst to Holly, Blaine has fallen in love with another woman and is about to break up with her. 

Holly has an aunt, Celeste Barros, an influential and famous vampire. Celeste is very much inspired by Mae West. :)

She is bold, strong, and the head honcho for paranormal relations for the Northern hemisphere. And she takes her favorite niece, Holly, under her wing when Blaine breaks the girl's young heart.

As Celeste says,

“My dear. There are no cures for a broken heart. But the best bandages are copious amounts of champagne, ridiculously expensive shoes, and a procession of nubile men."      

Are we ready for this ride? ;)

The finished patio project (and a few random photos).

Alma's Ganache In A Cup.

 The deck is finished! After months of mud and building, we finally got some furnishings (thanks to Lowe's discount area and various thrift shops) and it is starting to look like the retreat I always wanted. But first, I tease you with some random pictures of Portland!

(cue evil laugh)

The empty cup is the remains of an Alma Chocolate's Ganache in a Cup. I was not about to stop to take a picture before I ate it.

Cherish Yesterday; Dream Tomorrow, Love Today.

 Outside of Alma's, I saw this wonderful sign sitting on the sidewalk.

I call this The Retreat.

 And now for the main event. :)

Candlesticks from Goodwill.

Perfect for dreaming and reading.

The Garden Gate

The Party Pavilion

Pretty lanterns light the way.

A vase from a friend's mother's estate sale.

Rain chains: elegant and relaxing.