84 books in one week! Thank you!!!!

Thank you to all my supporters and readers out there!  You're the best! 

Click here!

Hugs,
Ellise

About the Contest:

I've decided to give the Contest just one week from today for input.  So, by next Wednesday--say Noon--the contest will be closed.  Thank you to those who have participated already!! :)  Much appreciated!  You bring joy to the world of writing for me.  It's always amazing to have our work read and enjoyed, so to have any of you willingly participate is overwhelming in an awesome way!  Thanks!
Ellise~

Point of View (POV)

I'm interested in knowing what my readers think about Point of View (POV).  As long as I understand which head I'm in, I don't mind head hopping to different characters in a story.  I like to know what each character is thinking.  That's just me.  But I do fine with only one or two POVs too.  However, I tend to write multiple POVs.  It comes naturally to me. 

But what I would like to know from my readers is this: which do you prefer reading?

I'm glad I've got through the chapters I wanted to complete this week.  I'm currently on Chapter 38--Tea Time.  Houseguests are present--annoying ones, that is.  So Creighton is crazy mad and frustrated, but grateful for time with Carly. 

I love the chapter about the stormy night where Carly is mopping up rainwater and Creighton catches her doing so.  Sounds weird, but it was an opportunity for them to be alone.  Once I get this published, I'd love to hear your thoughts too. 

Have a great day everyone!

Ellise

Friday, January 6, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23 concluded:

As Creighton made his morning rounds, he was successful in clearing his troubled mind.  He always found comfort in the outdoors.  Admittedly, he had difficulty sleeping last night and had also arisen early to refresh himself in the crisp morning air.  It always seemed to work, and was now glad that it had. 

But now, to his great disappointment, he spotted the mesmerizing Lady Charlotte and Mr. Stone from a distance in conversation as they sat upon their horses.  A stab of jealousy instantly pierced his heart.  Jealousy angered him, among other emotions.  Thinking to himself, he asked, What right do I have to feel this way?  He asked himself over and over why he was wasting thought upon these tiresome feelings.  Surely he had self-control, the ability to forget whatever he wanted?  Her even? 

But…it had not worked last night. 

Impatiently he thought, What is she to me but my obstinate little governess…that I took advantage of last night, he considered, sheepishly.  He tried to shake feelings of guilt, yet strong ownership over her, but it seemed he could not. 

Not allowing himself to ponder upon them but for a moment, he commented aloud, “Let them enjoy their ride together then.  Let’s go, Storm!” he shouted to his winded stallion and angrily rode off toward the stables. 

Carly was glad to get away from Mr. Stone, as short as the duration of their conversation was.  After talking with Joe for awhile, she made her way into the house passing Lord Huntington on her way upstairs.  Instantly nervous because of their passionate exchange the night before, she slowed her ascension, staring at him timidly, unsure of what to expect…what to say? 

Wearing his usual scowl, he glowered at her, barking, “Did you enjoy Mr. Stone’s exceptional company?” as he brusquely passed her descending the stairs. 

            She stood looking after him, confused by his words.  Obviously he had seen her with Mr. Stone this morning.  Had he assumed that they were riding together?  Horrible thought! 

Thoroughly confused at her master’s behavior towards her, one minute yelling the next teasing, and then last night kissing her, she sighed, and went in search of the children.  At least they would be pleased to see her. 

            And they were. 

How she reveled their company. 

*******

Carly thought of all that had happened since coming to Huntington Manor.  Already very close to Jonathon and Elspeth, she felt gratitude knowing they had similar tender feelings towards her.  She had been so relieved to find Jonathon ready to accept her after all her efforts to draw him closer. 

Her master—he was a different matter.  She found her mind wandering to think on him often during each day, speculating at what he was doing, wondering if he was happy.  Sometimes she would come upon him in the halls or in a particular room, and he would generally be brusque with her.  At these times, she wondered at his display of intimacy towards her in the library…that they both seemed to ignore happened. 

What had been his purpose? 

His intentions? 

Sometimes she would grow angry with his arrogant assumption that he could just kiss her like he had.  Often brooding upon the subject, it seemed as if it had never happened.  At other times, she could think only of how it felt to be caressed so by his lips…ooh!  Shivers of ecstasy always accompanied such thoughts.

But mostly, she worried horribly that she was not living up to his expectations and satisfaction as a governess.  Would she be required to find new employment?  When she happened upon him, he would look at her so intently, she would become embarrassed at his obvious examination of her.  Approaching her in that proud, dignified way of his, he would proceed as if he would have conversation with her over something, only to abruptly excuse himself instead. 

Often confused by his behavior towards her, she was forever wishing she understood men more clearly because she obviously did not understand this man.  She felt that the blame of these awkward moments must somehow lay with her. 

And then, of course, her anger would begin all over again. 

Why should she feel to be blamed?  He was the guilty party.  She would ignore him as he ignored her.  Simple. 

Back to the daydreaming again…Carly busied herself writing her letter instead. 

Having spent the last year in mourning, Carly had not had time for any real suitors and did not feel well-prepared on the subject.  Her sister had even less experience.  In her responses to Susannah, Carly decided not to confide in her about Lord Huntington’s conduct, knowing Susannah’s tender heart would worry very much about her. 

Goodness!  She was worried herself. 

Carly could picture the lecture she would receive if Susannah were here, for it only took remembering dear Philippa for either of them to become sober over the mild flirtations of the gentry.  Oh, the scandal that had ensued over the newly betrothed Lady Caroline to Philippa’s dearest love, Lord Digby.  Carly and Susannah had argued with their father extensively over the matter, further arguing how horribly treated their friend had been.  It seemed it was not only his daughters that the vicar must calm, but the whole of the village.  Many a long service had been prepared to help the parishioners find forgiveness in their hearts for such a diabolical deed done to one of their own.  Lord Digby’s reputation amongst the villagers must be repaired, for not only was it right to forgive, but much industry depended upon him, whether he was deserving of the people’s forgiveness or not. 

Carly sighed heavily, contemplating her sister’s sermon that she herself would completely agree with. 

So, no. 

She would not mention her first incredible kiss. 

And men say women are confusing?  Join me on Monday to start Chapter 24, titled Torment.

Ellise ;)

Monday, January 2, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Happy New Year to all!  I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas as well. 

I apologize for taking a two-week hiatus without notice.  But, I was quite overwhelmed.  On top of that, I came down with a nasty cold on Christmas Eve that just about shut me down completely.  But, we got through it fine. 

Unfortunately, the overwhelming feeling has not gone away.  I am happy to say that I finally reached the Editor's Desk on authonomy.com, and am #1.  Woohoo!  Pretty exciting!  But, I have only just found out that much of my historical information, specifically the titles of the aristocracy and the relationships between the peerage, is incorrect.  I have only this month to rectify it, and I am very overwhelmed.  But, I will work frantically to fix it, hopefully without ruining my story in the process. 

One of the changes that I've already made is changing Carly's name to Caroline.  I'm not really happy about this, but I have been assured that it is more accurate.  Her 'pet-name' will remain 'Carly', and I will mostly use this throughout the story still.  However, I'm still debating whether Carly will remain 'Lady Caroline Blakemore' or if I will have to make her only a 'Miss Caroline Blakemore'?  I don't know this yet, I'm sorry to say. 

But--now we will proceed with storytelling, shall we not?

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23:

Chapter 23

 Brooding

*******

Creighton lay in his bed wondering about this girl he had just ravished.  How could he have done that to her?  Why had he listened to Hayden?  Except he was his best friend and should have his best interests at heart? 

Hitting his pillow, he could not sleep.  Knowingly, he had increased the fear in her that was already there.  Used to having control over his emotions when it came to women, he wondered why that had changed, especially with his governess of all people. 

Roughly turning over, he again hit his pillow with a growl.  How would he ever get her eyes, her mouth, her sweet taste out of his memory?  Scowling at the thought of facing her again, he determined that this was his house, and she would have to get used to him…if she would stay? 

Instantly not liking the thought of her leaving, he sat up in bed.  These strong emotions bothered him greatly.  He would not succumb as Hayden would like to see, for he was in control, he must be. 

Falling back onto his pillow, he roughly rubbed his hands through his tousled hair and placed his arms behind his head as he continued his battle with…her fine mouth…her fine eyes…her very fine hair…

How could she sleep after being kissed like that—and by him?  How could she have known he could be so incredible?  Of all people to bestow her first kiss!  Her employer? 

            Struggling with fear of him that was quickly being replaced by the memory of his kisses—the gentle ecstasy of his kisses—she thought, oh, how can I face him again?  Could she look at him again without looking at his tempting lips? 

She should leave…shouldn’t she?  Needing this occupation desperately, she otherwise would sincerely consider it.  Or would she? 

Oh, what shall I do? 

Tossing and turning all night, she determined to have a very early morning ride. 

 

*******

Riding recklessly fast on Clover the next morning, Carly had needed the freedom of the fresh morning air to invigorate her clouded mind and her tired body.  She was unaware Mr. Stone watched and waited for his opportunity to bump into her.  It finally came as she rounded the grove of trees he was hiding in. 

Quickly moving forward at the right moment, as if he had been riding for some time, he practically barreled right into Carly.  Both horses reared upward, a startled cry slipping from Carly’s mouth.  Mr. Stone quickly gained control of both horses, as he grabbed Carly’s horse by the halter.  “Are you alright, Lady Caroline?” he asked with feigned concern and worry in his deep voice and handsome, yet troubling face.  She had no idea he had calculated this meeting. 

            Carly was reassuring her horse, and then exclaimed, “Mr. Stone!  I did not see you coming this way.” 

            Still holding her horse, he was looking at her all too favorably.  “You must allow me to make it up to you.  May I join you?” 

            She contemplated being forced to endure his loathsome company.  “Well, um…I…I was only coming back from the village and…and,” she remembered his forwardness last night at supper.  Anger instantly swelled in her breast as she recalled his impudence.  “Mr. Stone.  I do not believe you owe me anything except for an apology.”  Jutting out her chin in her challenge to him, she waited. 

            Chuckling, he said, “But that would imply I was sorry, and I am not.”  His black eyes glittered in a frenzy of obsession.  Licking his lips in his detestable way, he added, “You are an enticing young lady.” 

            Greatly annoyed at his disrespect, she said angrily, “Then we have nothing further to discuss.  Good day!”  Carly spurred Clover into a fast gallop, wishing herself as far away from this abominable man as she could get.  He sat astride his horse watching her departure, regrettably noticing her escort had started swiftly towards them at their collision. 

He must control his desire for her.  His impatience. 

Quickly, she rode towards the stables…and to safety. 

Bad guys?  Or just bad intentions?  Hmmm... Read on to find out.  Join me on Friday for more discoveries.

Ellise :)

Monday, December 19, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 22 concluded:

Service to his children would be impossible then, for he was gorgeous.  Every girl dreamed of being in love with such a man as this; thick, nearly black hair that curled ever so softly.  Sideburns trimmed to perfection.  His eyes were green, she had discovered, just like hers, but darker, filled with…pain? 

Yes. 

She could see it acutely.  It tore at her heart.  But what to do? 

She knew he had to be over six feet tall, for her father had been six feet exactly, and Lord Huntington was taller than her father by several inches.  His shoulders were broad, and she could see his muscular build through his tight fitting jacket.  On more than one occasion she had witnessed his magnificent physique for herself, much to her embarrassment.  And now, his close scent was enthralling! 

Emotions which she had never experienced before coursed through her veins.  As he loomed over her, she felt like she would melt. 

            “Are you real?” he whispered almost inaudibly.  She stood paralyzed and speechless, allowing him to continue.  “You are…very beautiful,” Lord Huntington said more to himself than to her.  Furrowing her brows in confusion, she startled when his warm finger eased the tension between her brows, slowly continuing down her nose to her lips.  She breathed carefully, worrying that she might faint. 

What did he want with her? 

“Very beautiful,” he again whispered.  Cupping her chin, his thumb gently touched her bottom lip making her tremble. 

What was happening to her? 

Closing his eyes, he breathed in her gently scented hair.  “So beautiful,” he whispered over her. 

Her eyes were now closed, and she whispered, “I am…afraid…” 

Hardly hearing her through the pounding of his own heart, he could not stop himself from saying, “What would it be like to taste you?” 

She trembled more violently as he broached this frightening subject matter.  She was unsure of herself.  A very soft kiss was placed on the top of her head, and she gasped and pressed her hands against his firmly muscled chest as if she could halt him.  But instead, she could only feel his firm chest and that he was breathing heavily, which frightened her terribly. 

She quickly took her hands away. 

As he drew ever closer, she again pressed her hands against his strong torso, wanting to stop him, her own breathing very irregular.  Ever so softly, she begged, “Please…”  

Carefully taking her resistant hands from his chest, he gently placed kisses on the inside of each palm and wrist, closing his eyes, breathing in her fragrance, feeling of her softness.  Gasping, she closed her eyes to the extraordinary emotions that threatened to encompass her completely.  He reached up pulling a pin from her hair, allowing her curls to tumble around her. 

His breathing quickened. 

Gazing at her curiously, his strong arms went around her and pulled her to him.  His hand continued behind her neck and into her hair, pulling her head back gently, making her inhale, yet struggle for air. 

A small sound escaped her again as his head descended, his lips gently caressing, nibbling her throat, her jaw, her ears.  She was trembling in his hands and he knew it, but he could not help himself.  Her breathlessness was invigorating!  His kiss lingered at the edge of her mouth, hesitating, as her hands grasped tight to his sleeves as if she would fall if let go.  Pulling himself away to stare down into her eyes only for a moment, his mouth captured hers, his lips gentle and soft, as if he was afraid she would shatter into pieces.  One hand still held the back of her head controlling her, working her to his every desire. 

A small whimper from her only increased and deepened his thrilling kiss, encouraging deeper passion.  Their breathing was labored from not getting enough air, his arms gathering her to him, closer still.  He was thorough in his fervor, burying his face and hands in her hair, kissing her mouth and throat with unrelenting passion. 

Abruptly, Lord Huntington stopped.  Taking her face and mussed hair in his hands, he looked deeply into her confused eyes and said breathlessly, “You…beguile me.” 

            Swiftly, he turned and left the room, leaving her stunned and breathless holding on to the bookshelves for support.   

I'm thinking of reworking this just a little.  But...did you like this moonlight kiss? 

Ellise

Friday, December 16, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 22 continued:

(I moved ahead in this chapter only skipping a little...)

Moonlight cast shadows across the dark hall as Creighton saw Lady Blakemore enter the library still dressed in the magnificent sapphire blue gown that hugged her so.  She must not be able to sleep again, he thought. 

Curiosity baited him… 

Hesitating to follow her after what Hayden had said to him, he decided to test Hayden’s theory, after all.  He wished to see her from this new perspective. 

            Entering the room, he watched her as she looked for a book to read.  He couldn’t believe the amount of reading she devoured.  Drawn to her beauty, which that much Creighton had already openly admitted, he observed her closely.  Her form was tantalizing, but it would take more than outward appearances to tempt him to put his heart on the line ever again.  Janese had been beautiful too, and yet she had betrayed him endlessly.  He was not about to let that happen to his heart again…

…Ever.   

            Closing his eyes, he could not help breathing in her tempting scent lingering inside the doorway.  Looking at her hair, he wanted to touch it, free it from its pins.  Yes, her hair was entrancingly gorgeous.  Remembering how silky soft it was when he held her at the lake, he treasured the memory.  Her pins had come loose somehow and it had fallen all around her shoulders.  Dark, long curls that captured vibrant chestnut tones in the warm sunlight coursed down over delicate shoulders, down her back all the way to her tiny waist.  A vision of loveliness she had been on that day! 

Again, today on Clover when her dark tresses flew behind her as she vigorously rode, he had helplessly watched enchanted by her; and again, her wild, curling mane had been stuck to the button on her riding habit and he had touched it to free her soft locks.  Not recognizing he had been savoring these memories, he was deeply surprised. 

            Scowling, he realized she was looking at him, her own features clouded with concern.  But it was unwarranted fear, was it not?  Carefully, he walked toward her, and as he got closer, he could tell that she was nearly ready to bolt away.  Stopping when he was a few feet from her, he stiltingly said, “Lady… Blakemore.  Did you… enjoy your evening?  Are you faring better?” 

            Nervous for whatever reason, she stared at him with a puzzled questioning look upon her face, and shyly nodded.  “Thank you.  It was good of you to include me, my lord.”  She could hardly say she was feeling better with him standing over her making her feel nervous.  She also dare not tell him of Mr. Stone’s outrageous behavior.  If his manners improved, which she thought impossible, she would not have to discuss this deplorable subject with him, ever. 

Nodding his head, he only said, “Of course.  You are always welcome at my table.”  Taking one more step toward her, he observed that she seemed even more to be upon a precipice, ready to jump.  Instead, she stepped backward as if she was terrified.  Distrustful. 

It was her eyes then that Lord Huntington noticed.  Yes, it had always been her eyes that intrigued him.  They had a spellbinding sparkle to them, so brilliant like gems, all the more green because of the blue of her gown.  Lord Huntington stepped closer still.  She could go no further; her back was against the bookcase, pleading eyes looking up at him in panic. 

            “Please,” she whispered, shaking her head nervously. 

            She was afraid of him, he thought with regret.  “I strike fear in your heart?” 

Hesitating a moment, she then nodded affirmatively.  Remorse came and went, covering his features.  Carly witnessed this, confused even more. 

His deep voice continued, “I do not wish it.  I only wish to…thank you for such becoming manners in front of my guests.  You are a jewel on any arm.” 

            Shocked, she could only falter, “Thank…thank you.”  Not wishing to be a coward, she tried to breathe evenly as she stood frozen, only aware of Lord Huntington filling the room.  So close, looking at her so strangely, he was a giant man, and if she did not fear him so, she would probably fall for him. 

But she could not have that. 

What comes next?  That promised moonlight kiss?  Watch and find out...

Ellise