Ellen Addie's Arbor

Don't Miss the Acclaimed Movie "The Wrestler"

2008-12-27T05:18:00.001-08:00

Actor Mickey Rourke's triumphant comeback role in director Darren Aronofsky's The Wrestler is sure to be Academy Award material, and interestingly, it also deals with the story of an older wrestler, like my Phaze short story "Better Late". Rourke's character is a down-on-his-luck former wrestler facing a series of personal and professional crises, and the film has been praised for its humanity as well as its accurate look at the unusual world of professional wrestling.

You can get a more romantic view of a pro wrestler character in "Better Late" (still available from Phaze Books), which tells the tale of the reunion between a wrestler and a woman who used to work with him as a publicist. Rourke's role in The Wrestler doesn't delve much into the erotic (though he does have a stripper girlfriend played by Marisa Tomei), but of course he was famous back in the day for his performance opposite the ravishing Kim Basinger in 1986's ultra-steamy Nine 1/2 Weeks.

If you want an amazing movie experience, I recommend The Wrestler, and if you want something a little hotter, I definitely recommend "Better Late" from Phaze Books!

"Baby, It's Cold Outside" -- Charming Rendition!

2008-08-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you know that the title of my first story Baby, It's Cold Outside was taken from a popular song written by Frank Loesser (The Pajama Game, Damn Yankees), and first introduced in the 1949 MGM musical Neptune's Daughter, starring Esther Williams, Ricardo Montalban, Red Skelton and Betty Garrett. The song became a big hit and remained so for many years, and here's a delightful version of it from a 1957 episode of The Dinah Shore Show, with Dinah, singer-dancer Ann Miller and actor Fred MacMurray having some fun with it. I think you'll enjoy it!

Where is the summer going?

2008-07-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Summer where I am hasn't been particularly summery -- lots of rainy days, interrupted by a few days of sunshine. Great for the mosquitoes, unfortunately!

I'm working on several other stories at the moment and also catching up on some great television. Don't miss AMC's Mad Men, which has just started its 2nd season; it's terrific and sexy, in a sophisticated and mature way. If you enjoy intriguing situations, multi-layered characters and more 1960s style than you can shake a swizzle stick at, Mad Men is your show!

Pictured above are Jon Hamm and January Jones as Don and Betty Draper. Don Draper is the creative whiz at an NYC ad agency, and Betty is his pampered but troubled suburban wife. They're just two of the many fascinating characters on this brilliant show, which recently achieved the distinction of receiving the most Emmy nominations ever for a basic cable show, and it deserves it.

Do check it out!

"Better Late" Review at Night Owl Romance

2008-07-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to the terrific Night Owl Romance review site for taking a look at "Better Late" and giving it 3.75 hearts! You can read the whole review here.

Many thanks to Rita of Night Owl Romance for her kind words and her really succinct and charming synopsis of the plot!

4th of July Sale at Phaze Books!

2008-07-03T10:40:00.001-07:00

For all of you who've been waiting for a good bargain, I'm pleased to announce that my publisher Phaze Books has a 20% discount good on July 4th only!

Go to the Phaze website and after you've made your selections, at checkout type in "FIREWORKS08" or copy and paste it in.

Of course, I'm hoping you buy my books!

Thanks!

Father's Day Sale at Phaze Books!

2008-06-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Please visit Phaze Books this Father's Day Weekend and take a 20% discount on all purchases. Just enter the code "BIGDADDY08" at checkout!

This makes it an even better time to get over to Phaze to purchase "Better Late" and other terrific books in all erotica genres!

Review for "Better Late" from The Romance Studio

2008-06-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled with the positive review for "Better Late" from The Romance Studio, which you can read here at their website.

To quote a bit:

"...her story about their night together was amazingly scorching. I recommend thisbook to anyone who likes a hot, sexy couple in a short, to-the-point action. It is a great read which will be enjoyed by many. "

Thanks to the reviewer Brenda Talley who was so kind to my story!

"Better Late" is available from Phaze Books, of course!

Review of "Better Late" at Manic Readers

2008-06-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

Check out the review of "Better Late" at the terrific Manic Readers site! Thanks for the positive review, Nicole!

Memorial Day Discount at Phaze Books!

2008-05-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

Visit today and get a 30% discount on all purchases, including my new story Better Late!

The code is MEM08 (enter at checkout) so head on over to Phaze and start shopping!

Enjoy your Memorial Day!

Did I tell you who is the inspiration for "Better Late"? Roddy Piper!

2008-05-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

Completely fictional inspiration, of course -- but pro wrestler Rowdy Roddy Piper has long been one of my favorites and is the role model (of sorts) behind the main male character in "Better Late" my new story out from Phaze Publishing.

Everybody knows that Piper has been happily married for decades, and Randy Muldoon is divorced, so let's not forget that this is fiction! Hot fiction, naturally, but fiction!

Roddy Piper is still active in acting, but had a rough year or so starting with his cancer diagnosis in December of 2006. He seems to be doing well these days and we're grateful for that!

If you are a lady who's been enamored of Piper lo these many years, you might particularly enjoy "Better Late"!

"Better Late" is Available Now at Phaze.com

2008-05-25T07:32:00.001-07:00

My latest story "Better Late" is now available from Phaze; here's the blurb from their website:

It's been twelve years since Kelly Stewart worked in public relations for American Wrestling Entertainment; with a new career and a new divorce under her belt, she's not sure how she'll feel when she attends the gala reunion party. What Kelly doesn't count on is meeting again charismatic pro wrestler Randy Muldoon, also newly divorced. Their warm friendship of a dozen years before is instantly renewed, but Kelly is surprised to learn and finally admit that there was more between them. “Better Late” is about learning that those feelings you had about someone, long ago...well, he had them, too. And now they're both free to consider the possibilities.

It's got a three-Nova rating, which means it's pretty hot, so get ready!

I think you'll really enjoy it. It's not only incredibly sexy but also funny and sweet, if you like that kind of thing. I'm working on a sequel now, that's how much I like the two main characters!

I hope that you'll give it a read!

Sexiest Man on TV: Thomas Jefferson? Yes!

2008-04-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

The current and perhaps unlikely heartthrob for many ladies out there has been Stephen Dillane as Thomas Jefferson in HBO's John Adams miniseries which concluded last week. Those of you who caught Mr. Dillane's captivating portrayal know what I mean; even if you never thought tri-cornered hats and buckle shoes could be sexy, think again! The mini continues to run on HBO, and beginning tonight, Monday April 28th, HBO replays two part of the seven-parts each night, beginning at 8pm on HBO2, East and West. If you missed any part of this tremendous television event, I highly recommend watching it now! Thomas Jefferson-watchers will especially enjoy Part Four will which airs Tuesday the 29th -- OMG, but he's gorgeous and so appealing! Definitely fodder for all romantics out there!

You can find out more about John Adams here on the HBO website.

If he doesn't inspire lustful thoughts, I don't know who could!

Editing Finished on "Better Late"

2008-04-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

I think you're going to like it -- I know I do! I'll keep you posted on the progress!

Editing is shortly beginning --

2008-04-02T07:31:00.001-07:00

On my new work, due out probably late June. It's called Better Late, and as I mentioned in an earlier post, it's something I've become quite fond of and I think you might like it, too.

I'll talk more about it soon, and I've already got a sequel in the works. That's what happens when you fall in love with your hero, too, just like your heroine!

Stay tuned for more information!

Cincinnati Chili in "Baby, It's Cold Outside"

2008-03-02T07:10:00.001-08:00

The delicious chili variation Cincinnati Chili is a key plot point in my Phaze HeatSheet Baby, It's Cold Outside, and I've just run across a fairly simple recipe which seems to retain the unique flavors of CC. What makes it different is the slightly sweet undertones of the chili, plus the fact that it's served over spaghetti, with several levels of toppings.

If you've never had it, I highly recommend giving it a taste. It hasn't replaced standard chili in my recipe repertoire, but is a delightful change that's particularly fun when you want something a little heartier, because of the pasta inclusion.

You might want to give it a go with this recipe from Cook's Country, which you can find here! As they say, don't forget the oyster crackers which are wonderful with it. Unfortunately I can't seem to find them up here in Nova Scotia, for some weird reason, but I continue to search!

Enjoy!

Leap Day Offer from My Publisher Phaze!

2008-02-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

Leap Day only comes around once every four years, and Phaze is celebrating with a special sale and Take a Leap Giveaway, with two ways to win! All through Leap Day, 2.29.08, you can get 29% off all eBooks in our store using the checkout code LEAP2008. When you purchase a title from the Phaze.com catalog on Leap Day you will be eligible to win one of TWO Phaze.com gift certificates valued at $29 each.

You can also enter the drawing by sending an e-mail to leapyear@phaze.com with your Name, E-Mail Address, and one sentence describing the best wayto "take a leap" on this extra day. How would spend your Leap Day: an actual "leap" with a bungee cord attached your ankles, or a metaphorical "leap" toward an exciting new job or romance? Let us know; we'll post the answers we like best on our blog. All entries for the giveaway must be in by midnight, 2.29.08 to be eligible. No purchase necessary to win!

Until then, stay Phazed and Enthused! www.Phaze.com

-- and don't forget that you can get my HeatSheet, "Baby, It's Cold Outside" there!

Excerpt from "Baby, It's Cold Outside" from Phaze Publishing

2008-02-05T06:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a little tidbit from "Baby, It's Cold Outside" -- don't worry, it's not TOO hot, but it does have possibilities!

The Time: Winter. The Place: Miranda Todd's kitchen, where she's dining with Caden Doyle, who's been stranded at her house during a snowstorm. What They're Eating: Cincinnati Chili -- mmmmmmm!

----------------------------------------

“I wasn’t trying to pry or anything, wondering if you were...” Miranda raised her eyebrows.

He made a trifling gesture. “Oh, that’s okay. I just wouldn’t have thought that I gave off any gay vibes, but you’re right, how can you tell, really?” he conjectured, then took a bite of his chili. After he had chewed and swallowed, he continued. “I mean, I haven’t made any overt passes at you, so I guess it’s logical that you’d wonder if...”

Miranda shrugged. “No, you haven’t. Not that you have to, “ she added quickly, “of course not, that’s your business,” she continued, trying to talk her way back out of where this weird sentence was going. “But it’s just a way,” she said finally, evenly, almost primly, “to get a read on what’s going on...in a guy’s mind...sometimes, I guess.” She gave him a humorous look. “Does that make any sense at all?”

“Once again, I’m following you, a little to my surprise.” Caden smiled indulgently. “Sheesh. I should have just made a move on you a long time ago, and saved you all the anguish.”

Miranda gave a little chuckle. “That probably would have been the simplest solution, yes.”
“Is it too late now?” Caden asked, taking a sip of wine and wiping his lips with his napkin.

She shrugged comically. “I don’t know if there’s a statute of limitations on that kind of thing, but I suppose—-“

Her explanation was cut short as Caden rose and walked to her side of the table, pulled her up by the arms, and folded her into an embrace. “Okay,” he said, before she could protest. “Let’s try to settle this once and for all.” All Miranda could do was look into his dark green eyes as he kissed her, his lips warm on hers, his arms holding her close but not too tightly. She was taken by surprise, her arms hanging limply down at her sides, enjoying Caden’s kiss.

“Pardon the onions,” he quipped as they broke the kiss, but his arms remained around her.

“Pardon mine, too,” Miranda added. “Wow...well...um, I guess--“

Caden frowned down at her. “You’re still not sure?” he chuckled. “Woman, how much proof do you need?” he laughed. “Plus, as they always say, it’s better when you help.”

“What?” she asked, a bit addled.

“You can put your arms around me. I’m definitely not going to break.” He laughed again. “You must really be out of practice,” he said, pulling her a little closer.

“Okay, I admit it. Things have been a little slow since I moved here,” she offered. “It’s been a while since...”

“I can tell. Now, get your arms around me and we’re going to do this right,” he said, waiting until Miranda wound her arms around his broad shoulders. “You ready?” Miranda nodded. “Okay then,” he said softly before their lips met for a second time, this time Caden’s mouth more demanding, more sensuous, more thrilling to Miranda. The kiss was a long one, Miranda’s lips opening up to his, and as she relaxed she felt his arms tighten around her and one of his hands lowered to her waist. When the kiss finally ended, Caden looked into her hazel eyes. “Please tell me you’re sure now,” he smiled. “I can also offer some more...solid...evidence, if you know what I mean,” he said slyly, his hands drawing her hips gently against his, where she felt his burgeoning erection hard against her.

“Well, hey, I’m convinced,” Miranda said. “Evidence accepted,” she joked nervously, but she was excited too, by Caden and his virile body. His hold on her relaxed a bit, but her arms were still around his shoulders as she met his gaze.

-------------------------------------------
Read the rest of the exciting, amusing and erotic encounter in "Baby, It's Cold Outside" available from Phaze Publishing now!

New Phaze Release Later This Year!

2008-02-04T06:18:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to reveal that another one of my stories "Better Late" will be coming out from Phaze publishers later this year.

It's something that I had written to submit for one of their anthologies, however it will be a standalone when it does come out.

"Better Late" is a story of friendship, renewed acquaintance, unspoken affinities, and finally profound revelations which lead to an exciting erotic encounter. It's about learning that those feelings you had about someone, long ago...well, he had them, too. And now you're both free to consider the possibilities.

I'm doing revisions now and am loving the characters. Not sure I'll be able to let them go when the story's over!

I'll fill you in as things progress. In the meantime, don't forget about "Baby, It's Cold Outside", my winter-themed Phaze Frost HeatSheet which is available now. If you like your heroines down-to-earth and your heroes the same, I think you'll enjoy meeting Miranda and Caden.

Thanks for visiting!

Have I Introduced Myself Properly?

2008-01-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

This is written in third person, but is my semi-official biography:

Ellen Addie is new to romantic erotic fiction, but after transitioning out of a long career as a programming executive in the TV industry, she finds writing is the perfect opportunity to explore her unfettered imagination. Born and raised in Los Angeles but now living in semi-rural Nova Scotia, Ellen, a dutiful fan of pop culture, good food and fluffy cats, thanks the stars she got out of corporate life with her sense of humor intact, and also is grateful for the fast internet access and excellent satellite television that allows her to live so far away from big city civilization yet not feel isolated at all. Having more than one movie theatre in town wouldn't be so bad, though, come to think of it....

Glad to meet you!

Review of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" at Fallen Angel Site

2007-12-31T09:18:00.000-08:00

Fallen Angel Reviews has a review of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" (they liked it, whew...) and you can take a look at it here! Thanks for the kind words!

I'm working on a few new things which haven't been submitted anywhere yet so I need to get in gear for 2008!

Hope you'll take a look at "Baby, It's Cold Outside" at the Phaze website!

And Happy New Year!

Be Sure to Visit Phaze for Great Books!

2007-12-27T07:49:00.000-08:00

My publisher Phaze has wonderful books for all tastes, so do check them out, and don't forget that my winter-themed romantic erotica story Baby, It's Cold Outside is now available there!

"Baby, It's Cold Outside" Is Now Available!

2007-12-16T07:54:00.000-08:00

My Phaze Frost HeatSheet "Baby, It's Cold Outside" is now available from their website. Please visit and pick up a copy -- it's a bargain! The story goes something like this:

Winter is a whole new thing for Miranda Todd. After inheriting a house in Maine from her uncle, she quits her hectic job in Los Angeles TV and moves across country. Fulfilling a dream, Miranda opens up a small diner, completely changing her lifestyle and opening herself up to the challenges and charms of living in a small town.

Of course, this also includes the possibility of romance, which arrives on her doorstep one snowy evening -- her very first snowstorm, in fact -- in the form of rugged Caden Doyle, one of her favorite customers from her diner. He's unexpectedly stranded in the storm on the way back from making firewood deliveries, and in a small town what's a neighbor to do but invite him in for dinner and a little conversation?

Some of Miranda's savory chili, a little Zinfandel, a cozy fire, and their flirtation is off and running, and it's not long before they discover a mutual attraction that neither of them wants to ignore.

I hope you enjoy it!

"Baby, It's Cold Outside" Release Date

2007-11-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

I've received news that my Phaze Frost HeatSheet will be published on Dec. 17th. Please visit the Phaze Coming Soon page and see the other terrific offerings from Phaze which will be released in the near future!

There's a terrific array of erotic romantic fiction from many wonderful authors to suit anyone's tastes. Enjoy!

Look for my story in the Phaze Frost Collection

2007-09-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

Hello all!

Coming later this fall, Phaze Publishing presents their Frost Collection, featuring stories by 10 writers. My story "Baby, It's Cold Outside" will be included, and I hope you'll enjoy it.

Visit the Phaze website at: http://www.phaze.com/frost.html