Lucynda Storey-Erotic Romance Writer

Welcome to the Grand Tour featuring authors of The Collector series from Loose-Id.

Your stop today is the pirate hide-out of New Providence, a port on the island of Nassau.  Lushly wild, with the heat one would expect of the tropics, New Providence was held as a special meeting place of priate captains running in the area at the time.

It is easy to think that the pirate haven was Port Royal but in Pirates of the Caribbean, the picture of Port Royal as an execution port is accurate.  In the mid 1600’s the pirate Henry Morgan used Port Royal as his base to legally attack Spanish galleons (the English government approved of the pirating tactics).  The end to Port Royal as a base of operations came when the British decided it was no longer in their best interests to have Morgan continue to harass the Spanish.  He was called back to England in 1671.  In addition to the change of heart by the English government, Port Royal suffered a debilitating earthquake in 1690.  The bulk of the population moved across the harbor to Kingston.  As Port Royal recovered, it became known for hanging pirates rather than sanctioning them.

Many of us think that Tortuga was a pirating capital, and indeed, it was for a period of time.  Tortuga is an offshore island near the island of Hispaniola, an island so large it is the home of two countries, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.   In the early 1600’s pirates used the northern and western coasts as the primary staging area for their activities.

By the 1700’s, the bulk of pirating activity moved to the area of New Providence, an island in the Bahamas.  Its location was ideal for attacking vessels traversing the Florida straights. In fact, one of the most famous pirates is Blackbeardwhose ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge is thought to have sunk off the coast of the Carolinas.  Queen Anne’s Revenge is the ship I patterned Red Sky after.

I chose the name Red Sky after the old rhyme, Red sky at morning, sailor take warning. Red Sky at night, sailor’s delight.

Under the Black Flag, the Romance and the Reality of Life Among the Pirates, was one of my primary sources of research.  I also used John Matthews’ Pirates for additional, more interesting information.

The Smithsonian has interesting articles on pirates from all over the world and inclduing contemporary times.  Be sure to check out their interesting articles!

Now for an excerpt of The Collector 7: This Time Forever

True to his word, Rand escorted Skylar to the finest inn Nassau offered. The harbor town bustled with activity. Women in colorful long dresses and fancy matching millinery strolled the streets on the arms of male companions.

The building, a two-story construction, was run by a white proprietor and his wife, plus several black slaves. “

“Society may be different in your time, but not here. To raise a ruckus would only draw attention to you that we can ill afford until Cutler is dealt with.”

He had a point, but she didn’t like it.They approached the innkeeper at the bar.

“Nay. This boy will be fetching my belongings while I retrieve my lady wife from her berth.”Skylar contained her surprise at Rand’s mention of a wife and listened as the two men haggled back and forth over the cost of the room in shillings until both were satisfied. Finally, the innkeeper handed

The impish light of teasing resided in Rand’s eyes. “How else will you obtain a room with a hot bath?”

The thought of warm water washing the blood and dirt from her skin helped make his argument plausible. “Where next?”

“I’ve a lady friend here that should be able to help you with your trousseau.”

In another roundabout way, Rand was talking about marriage. Were the legalities of a marriage a major concern to him? After all, she’d read of his conquests as a pirate. Bedding a woman didn’t require a lifelong commitment. “Trousseau? Isn’t that usually reserved for a bride?”

Skylar stuck out her hand. “I’m Skylar Creighton, a friend of Rand’s. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”

“A friend of Cap’n Jamison is a friend of mine, to be sure.”

“Miss Creighton will be needing more appropriate attire, Holy.”

The woman laughed and held the door wide for them. “’Tis hard to be a lady and a pirate both. Come in, the both of ya.”

Skylar smiled. Holy’s happy attitude was contagious. “Today, I believe I’d much rather be a lady.” She looked down at her legs. “The stains and the stench are a powerful combination in arguing against piracy.”

Holy nodded. “I think I can find something for ya to wear until you have some proper clothing made.” She guided Skylar toward the back of the house. “

Holy studied Skylar a little longer, took measurements of her bust, waist, and hips, then went to a wardrobe standing against the far wall. After opening the doors, Holy pulled out a plain dove-gray skirt. “’Tain’t much, but will fit ya reasonable well until I get ya some proper clothes made.” She paused. “How long will you and the Cap’n be in Nassau?”

Holy’s question was a good one. “I don’t really know. He needs to resupply the ship and find additional hands to work her. He said something about visiting the governor too.”

At her statement, Holy tsked and held out a stay. “The fever took the governor and his missus not more than a fortnight ago.”

“The fever?” Skylar wracked her mind, trying to remember what she knew of illnesses and the tropics. Perhaps malaria or ‑‑ “Yellow fever?”

“Breathe in, child.” Holy nodded as she laced up the stays, tied pockets on around Skylar’s waist, and then held out a white petticoat. “Step in.”

Skylar did as asked, then stood still as Holy laced up yet another torture device around Skylar’s ribs. Finally, Holy held out the grey skirt.

 “Mosquitoes,” Skylar gasped. “Keep netting over your windows and beds. Don’t let them bite you.”

“Turn.”

Again, Skylar followed Holy’s order. Behind her, she felt Holy move the skirt and pin it over the lower layered cloth.

“It will do ya. Ya won’t look right fashionable ’til I make yer clothes, but you’ll pass.” She spun Skylar back around. “Thank you for the information.”

Together the women marched to the parlor, where they found Rand sitting, talking earnestly to a white man. “That would be my husband, John,” Holy said.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

World Tour Question: What is the name of the real pirate ship Red Sky was modeled after?

Next stop on the world tour: The Phillipines.

Q: How many copy editors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: I can’t tell whether you mean ‘change a light bulb’ or ‘have sex in a light bulb’. Can we reword it to remove the ambiguity?

Q: How many editors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Only one. But first they have to rewire the entire building.

Q: How many managing editors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: You were supposed to have changed that light bulb last week!

Q: How many art directors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Does it HAVE to be a light bulb?

Q: How many copy editors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: The last time this question was asked, it involved art directors.Is the difference intentional? Should one or the other instance be changed? It seems inconsistent.

Q: How many marketing directors does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: It isn’t too late to make this neon instead, is it?

Q: How many proofreaders does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Proofreaders aren’t supposed to change light bulbs. They should just query them.

Q: How many writers does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: But why do we have to CHANGE it?

Q: How many publishers does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Three. One to screw it in, and two to hold down the author.

Q: How many booksellers does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Only one, and they’ll be glad to do it too, except no one shipped them any.

Stay tuned as the nine erotic writers of The Collector begin a virtual world tour chatting about the locations they set their stories.

Curious about The Collector series? Go to the website and see the excerpts and read what reviewers are saying about this fascinating group of books!

Paranormal Romance (PNR) has just given The Collector 7: This Time Forever a great review.  Nicole Harvey says “a strong time travel adventure” and “This was such a strong story. You have Rand Edward Jamison who was a pirate from the past who had been grieving since he had lost his wife Emma. But he hears something from his cabin, and goes in and thinks the woman he sees is his dead wife that had come back to him. When Skylar helps a homeless man she is thrust back in time and into the arms of the man of her dreams, Rand Edward Jamison. This story was just great, you have intrigue, an enemy of Rand that wants all he has and more, so of course then he wants Skylar, right? Yep you’ve got it right. But will Rand let the love of his life be taken away from him a second time? I guess if you want to know you have to go and buy the book, hahahah. No you won’t be sorry if you buy and read this book, I sure enjoyed it.”

Thanks Nicole for reading and enjoying the story.

Book Business - Publishing Past Present Future by Jason Epstein, the former editorial director for Random House is a fascinating look at the business side of publishing, revealing much of the history of the behemoth authors fear, respect and love.

One of the most fascinating items (and there were several gems here) I found was Mr. Epstein’s commentary on the practice of “returns”.   Largely due to the depression of the 30’s, smaller booksellers were unwilling to risk their money on unknown authors and so wanted a guarantee that if a book did not sell, then the publisher would take it back.  This practice was started by Simon & Schuster and remains a thorn in the sides of authors to this day as they wait several months to receive the earnings owed them.

In fact, the practice, which destroys unsold copies of mass market books, is one that defies logic in this day and age when computers help businessess track sales and can  help companies better predict demand and its answering counterpart, demand.  Closely on the heels of this antiquated means of doing business, Print on Demand (POD) from companies such as Lightning Source and others will eventually force changes in the publishing business model. 

Mr. Epstein has gone on to become editorial director of On Demand Books the book company that has the Espresso Book Machine which is the system in use at the New York City library. Several titles are available to its patrons from the vast archives of works now considered a part of the public domain.   Book Business is available there.

The world is changing and faster than a lot of the management at big NY houses would like to admit.  In a day when we are encouraging people to recycle and be more earth friendly, its time NY publishers did likewise and didn’t destroy unsold books to add tonage to our overflowing landfills.

Or how about this one?  Can’t you just hear Will Smith?  Do you think its erotic when a man does this sort of thing for you?  Or is it just considerate, or closer to romantic?

What do you think ladies?  Know any man who’d take you to the craft fair over the big game?

CAPA Nominated, EPPIE Finalist BLIND DEVOTION is the story of a woman who has awakened two deadly beings and is now living in jeopardy and a a fighting prist chosen to protect her.Reviewers say:

A beautifully written tale of love, magic and faith, Ms. Storey has created a rich fantasy world that appeals to all of her reader’s senses and tugs at the heartstrings. The conflict between Azari and Tor’s feelings and the restrictions placed on them by society creates a gripping story that is sure to please anyone who loves a little magic mixed with their romance. Jennie, Enchanted Ramblings

Azari is a great character. She is confident and unwilling to sacrifice her strong will just to have a man. She would rather just remain a virgin until she finds a man who accepts her as she is. Tor is a strong man but he is unwilling to open himself to love since that would be sacrilegious towards his Goddess. Plus he has seen the suffering love can cause. When they first meet they are like oil and vinegar but Azari piques Tor’s interest because she doesn’t bow down and kiss his feet. Julie Esparza, Just Erotic Romance Reviews

‘Blind Devotion,‘ is appropriately named because of Tor’s love of the goddess. The setting is a world where magic exists…. The story tells how people can misinterpret ideas, changing the original beliefs. Tor is dedicated and willing to sacrifice what he desires for his beliefs. Azari understands Tor and although she would like to be with him, loves him enough to let go. The romance is passionate and beautifully expressed. Anita, The Romance Studio

Ms. Lucynda Storey has written an exciting story with all the romance, danger, and suspense you could ask for. I admired Azari for her hard-headed determination to stand by her man against impossible odds. Tor’s inner struggles between his growing love for Azari and his vows as a priest will keep every reader second guessing the ending.        Kathy, Coffeetime Romance

Blurb:

When Azari runs from a wild animal, she has no idea her life is about to change irrevocably. Unwittingly, she has awakened two mythical beings intent on possessing her. Escaping to an isolated cabin, Azari meets an unlikely protector, Tor, the High Priest of Eiliki. Together, Azari and Tor face the greatest challenges of their lives – survival. Will Tor’s blind devotion to the Goddess prevent him from accepting the greatest gift he’s ever been given, or will the dogma of his religion and his own past keep him from making the right decision?

Excerpt:

Dear Goddess, when had his needs ever overtaken his senses before? Anger with himself propelled him through the trees along the rough trail he chose. Long ago, he’d made a vow that he would not develop an attachment to any woman yet here he was lusting after Azari like some sort of proprietary animal. A beast led by carnal desire.

He’d have her to her home soon. They’d warn the village of the impending danger and then he’d be done with her. Despite the visions he’d seen in the globe, Tor would walk away from her. Before his emotions followed his rod. Before he buried himself in her sweet, hot wetness again. And again. And again.

Dear Goddess. No. This was not happening. Abruptly he stopped and leaned against a siasma tree. The stringy bark peeled easily beneath his fingers. How could he serve the Goddess when his thoughts continually returned to making love to Azari?

“Are you alright?”

Her voice blanketed him with softness. He stared at the hand that touched his arm. The longing he’d been trying to bank leapt to full flame again. He snapped, “How can I be when you touch me?”

At that, she dropped her hand and resumed her trek through the woods. It was only when Tor saw her run that he realized the wound he’d dealt.

Tor gave chase. Pain lanced his heart when he caught her and saw the tears on her face. “Azari. I’m not worthy of your tears. I cannot give you what you desire.”

Defiantly, she lifted her gaze to meet his eyes. “What do I desire?”

Wiping away a tear with the pad of his thumb, he answered. “I know what you think. A home, family, love. I can give you none of those.”

“Don’t you want them?”

“I cannot want them.”

“Tor, the man, or Tor, the High Priest?”

“It’s not that simple, Azari. To want you for more than a vessel to spill my seed is sacrilege.”

“It didn’t stop you earlier.”

Around them, the sounds of the forest diminished, as if the animals prepared for a coming storm. “You used me, Azari. I willingly allowed it. Even after I told you the loss of your virginity would not alter, for reasons I don’t comprehend, the course of the dragon and cevere. Even after you saw for yourself the truth in the crystal.”

“And what if I want more?”

The truth tore through him. She did, indeed, want more. She wanted his love, something he’d given no other human since Salmond’s death. Her innocence and trust in him called to him, but he couldn’t allow himself to fall into dream she created. “It changes nothing.”

“I don’t care about the High Priest.”

“You must,” he replied, agony in his simple words.

She stroked her hand down his chest, down to his inner thigh. “I want Tor the man.”

If she fell in love with him, it would make it too easy to love her back, and that he would not do to either of them. He grabbed her wrist and wrenched her hand away. He had to stop this madness. “You have Tor, the High Priest. It’s time you remembered that.”

“You don’t think that way, I know it.”

Through lips held tight, he ground out, “You know nothing, Azari. The Goddess is my companion, not you.” He had to make her see that a relationship with him was not possible. He belonged to another, and his burgeoning feelings for the spitfire had to be dampened. He had to drive her emotionally away from him if either of them would live. “You are nothing but a vessel to be used for the conception of my child.”

The ramifications of their relationship were agonizingly simple. He had to make her see what loving him would do to her.

With deliberate coldness in his voice he continued, “A child that will be taken from you at birth and raised by another. An infant you will not be allowed to see once you’ve given birth. This is what you will receive for your union with me.”

He grabbed her shoulder and forced himself to look her directly in the eyes. He enunciated each word. “Nothing more.”

He watched her face. The confidence of a moment ago disappeared, replaced by a fresh injury.

“I do not believe this,” she whispered.

Neither do I, his heart ached to confess. In one short day, Azari had shown him the possibility of life with a real flesh and blood woman.

Tears glistened in her green eyes. His heart twisted, but he had to be as hard as the rocks that weakened the bottom of the canoe they’d left behind. The pain she’d endure now would be nothing compared to what she’d suffer if she persisted in the delusion of a mutual love they’d never share.

“It matters not what you believe. My life is what it is, given in service to Eiliki.” He delivered his final blow. “Don’t touch me, Azari, ever again, without my leave.”