Teri Adkins

Quick update

2010-02-16T08:43:00.001-08:00

Alot has been going on since my last post. New husband, new daughters, new home. Life is a whirlwind and I'm loving it. Luckily, its starting to slow down and I'm hoping to get back to my writing. I've got two books in the works and many more floating around in my head, so this year looks to be a busy one. I'll try to do better posting here, as well.

First Reviews are in!

2008-08-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

Bitten by Books has reviewed The Ravenmocker. Here's what Becky had to say:

The Ravenmocker by Teri Adkins
Review by Becky

Categories: Book Reviews, Ghosts, Magic, Psychics, e-books

A murderer is on the loose in Memphis and he is one that homicide detective Tala Crockett has seen before. Only problem is that Tala’s father, also a cop, killed him over twenty years ago and Tala is sure that her father got the right guy. Her mother was the last victim of the original killer, Robert Simon, and she witnessed her father shooting him as Simon prepared to cut out Tala’s mother’s heart. So how is it possible that two women have been killed in exactly the same manner as the victims from back then? Tala will use her abilities as a sensitive and find out if it is the last thing she does.

Paired with Nick Ryan, a detective from the major case squad and former lover, Tala is reluctant to reveal her ability to him. She knows though that if they are to catch this latest version of the past killer, they will have to be honest and trust each other. But considering that she walked out on their relationship without a word over six months ago, trust could be in short supply.

As they dig deeper into the murders both past and present, Tala gradually explains to Nick about her abilities and the connection the murders seem to have to legends and beliefs from her Native American heritage. A sort of boogey man, the Ravenmocker is an evil that steals souls from the dying and, as Tala discovers, more real than scary fairy tale. Still, he has a human… partner if you will, and that person is somehow connected to the original murders. When Nick and Tala finally figure out the connection, it will take more than they think possible to catch the killer and banish the Ravenmocker. Are they willing to make the sacrifice necessary?

The Ravenmocker had me completely captivated from the first page till the end. Mysteries and police thrillers are genres that I cut my teeth on before discovering the world of paranormal. When I find books that include all of these areas, and good ones at that, it is a great thrill. The details of the legends involved in the plot were so incredibly descriptive that I was easily able to picture everything in my head as I read. The only complaints I have are that the story was, at sixty-nine pages, entirely too short and there is no confirmation that this is the start of a series. I sincerely hope that Ms. Adkins has a lot more in store for these characters!

Book Stats:e-book, digital format

Publisher: New Concepts Publishing

Length: Novella

ISBN: 978-1-60394-199-0

The Ravenmocker Cover is in!

2008-01-06T12:16:00.001-08:00

Kat Richards is the artist, and as ususal, NCP has done a wonderful job on the cover.

Cover art by Kat Richards
(c) copyright 2007

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T08:47:00.000-08:00

I’ve been a lax on blogging lately, but I’m hoping to do better in the future. The Ravenmocker is due out mid December and I’ll post the cover here when I receive it. My writing is going slow, with real life interfering every chance it gets.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday. I’ll be cooking this year and hoping all the family gets to come. Right now I’m at work (the paying job) waiting on quitting time. Hubby and oldest son are home, hopefully making the house presentable. (After the teenage party we had this weekend for the oldest’s 14th birthday, it’ll take a lot). The little one is sick, though its likely just a cold.

That’s it for me. I’ll write more when time allows. Until then, remember to take time to pamper yourself. If you don’t, who will?

The Weekend...

2007-08-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

We went rafting this weekend with friends at Spring River in Arkansas. Nothing too extreme since we took the little ones, but still a lot of fun. It was one of those strange weekends where every thing went really well or really to hell. We had plenty of both. Being with good friends and a day spent going down the river made up for the bad, I think.

I learned a few valuable lessons. One, never get separated from the mosquito spray after dark on a river. I swear my legs look like I have a bad case of measles.

Two, don’t get in a kayak with your 13 year old son when it’s the first time in a kayak for both of you. (Especially when that 13 year old knows ALL) One of us was going in head first and being the mother I felt it should be me. It was well worth it, given the scare it gave hubby since he’s the one who put said 13 year old in the boat with me. (I had been happily tucked safely in the big old raft until he decided I needed more excitement)

Three, it is possible for your toenails to hurt. Every muscle in my body is reminding me of exactly how old I am. Trust me, that’s a lot of years to be reminded of.

I’m sure there were more lessons I learned, but sitting here at work those are the ones that stick out sorely in my mind and body. :)

It was great! We’re all planning to squeeze in another trip before summer’s gone and I can’t wait.

Checking In ...

2007-08-14T08:44:00.001-07:00

The temperature in Memphis today is supposed to reach 106. Yesterday we set a new date record at 105. Folks, its just hot here. Air quality is code orange. The AC at work shows 85—that’s the highest on the thermostat—and my asthma is acting up. (wonder why?) The poison ivy I’ve acquired is driving me nuts and I think a spider bit my ankle. (No rotting flesh so I think it wasn’t poison) Oh yeah, I get to have a filling replaced at the dentist in the morning, school started yesterday (and I’ve been late for work since) and my boxer shredded my new comforter last night. I think she’s having PMS like me. And did I mention I turned 40 last week?

Oddly enough, I’ve actually gotten some writing done today. I’ve been a bit of a slacker lately, I’ll admit. I’m working on the last chapter of Malcolm’s story and I’m kicking around a title to see how it works out. Flesh and Blood. It seems to fit the story extremely well so for now I’m going with it. It’ll likely change later, but we’ll see.

That’s it for now, I’m going back to the story while its actually flowing for me so I’ll check in later. Keep cool and pray for autumn.

Hemochromatosis (Iron Overload)

2007-08-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Below was taken from the CDC http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hemochromatosis/

Hemochromatosis occurs when the body absorbs too much iron from foods (and other sources such as vitamins containing iron). This disease causes extra iron to gradually build up in the body’s tissues and organs, a term called iron overload. If this iron buildup is untreated, it can, over many years, damage the body’s organs.

Although hemochromatosis can have other causes, in the United States the disease is usually caused by a genetic disorder. A person who inherits the defective gene from both parents may develop hemochromatosis. The genetic defect of hemochromatosis is present at birth, but symptoms rarely appear before adulthood. Because one inherits genes from his or her parents, this type of the disease is also called hereditary hemochromatosis.

Early indications of hemochromatosis include the following symptoms:
Fatigue (feeling very tired)
Weakness
Weight loss
Abdominal pain
Joint pain
Because these symptoms also occur with other diseases, hemochromatosis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages.

The iron overload associated with hemochromatosis can be detected through two blood tests. The tests measure how much iron is in the body. You can have these tests done in your doctor’s office. If hemochromatosis is detected early, treatment can slow its progress and prevent serious problems. However, if the disease is not detected and treated early, it can cause more serious problems. These problems include arthritis, heart problems, and liver problems (such as cirrhosis and liver cancer).

Treatment consists of periodically taking blood from the arm, much like giving blood. (phlebotomy) The treatment is safe and effective. Patients can expect a normal life span if they start treatment before organ damage has begun.

Here are a few links I found helpful:
http://www.irondisorders.org/Forms/diet.All.3.05.pdf
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hemochromatosis/training/pdf/phlebotomy_info.pdf

The Loss of an Icon

2007-07-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

I was saddened to learn that Kathleen Woodiwiss passed away recently. For those of you who don’t know her, she WAS romance novels in the late seventies and eighties. The Wolf and the Dove, The Flame and the Flower, just to name a few. I’ve read them all and still have them on my keeper shelf. They were my mother’s romance novels and what my generation cut their teeth on. They’ve been dogged for years, called bodice rippers and worse, but for those of us who grew up reading them they were much more. Her characters were always strong, stood up for themselves (eventually) and were easy to fall in love with.

Kathleen Woodiwiss and authors like her ignored the lack of respect given to the romance genre and wrote for themselves and for us, the fans. The genre has evolved, changed with the times, but you can still pick up one of her books and fall in love all over again. She inspired a new generation of authors and fans and she will be sorely missed. My condolences to the family of Kathleen Woodiwiss.

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-03T07:54:00.000-07:00

When I was eleven, I ended up in the read-a-thon in elementary school. (I know, big shocker that I was a book worm) The gig was a dream come true for me. Five days in the school library to read as many books as possible. Whoever read the most books won. While the other kids were stuck in their classrooms doing Math and English, I was curled up in a big blue butterfly chair with a good book. I went through the entire set of Nancy Drew and most of the Hardy Boys that week, just to name a few. I didn’t win, but it still stands out as one of the greatest weeks of my childhood. (Okay, that wasn’t nearly as pathetic as it sounded)

A few years back I ran across a blue butterfly chair that was exactly like the one in school. My son likes to read (he makes me so proud…sniff, sniff) and I thought he could curl up in that chair and get as much pleasure from it as I had at his age. He had his own ideas. So guess who ended up with the chair.

Sunday when I decided I had earned a book break, I curled up in that chair for old time sake. Several hours later I was finished with a great book, unable to stand erect, and cursing my sentimental side. Those cloth chairs that once cradled a skinny little kid of eleven just don’t work for a grown woman UNDER 40. My back ached, my neck had a crick and my feet were numb.

So, here’s my point. I think memories are there to provide you with a second of happiness, bring back that small smile when you really need it, and make you feel like a kid again. Those moments can’t be recreated and the years have likely sweetened them anyway. I mean lets face it, nothing from your childhood is as good as you remember. (Okay, ice cream, but that’s the exception. Oh, and chocolate, but that’s it.)

Tomorrow’s the 4th of July. My hubby has to work, so we’ve been low key this year. I mean its hard to have fun and make plans when I know he’ll be miserable all day. But my boys are still young, and they have a lifetime of memories to store up. So I’ll come up with something fun for them to do, and we’ll end up having a great time.
Hope you’ll be making a few memories with your own family. Happy 4th everybody!

Growing Pains

2007-06-12T07:24:00.001-07:00

My baby started pre-school yesterday. Okay, he's four and hasn't qualified as a baby in a while, but he's stuck with the title, likely for life. Last night he was so excited giving me all the details. Lots of other kids, awesome playground with three slides. This morning when I dropped him off his little lip started moving, his eyes grew big and he kept saying he was going to miss me. I knew the signs. After a dozen hugs, we made it through without embarrassing mom (raccoon eyes at work are so NOT attractive and I forgot the waterproof mascara) but I feel a little beat up as a result. He's probably forgotten all about me as he slides down that awesome slide.

The school has internet camera's and I should be set up this afternoon. I'm not sure if that'll make it better or worse, but I'm anxious to see him. You'd think I'd be used to this, having been through it with my teenager.

But I know the best thing for a mother in this situation. Chocolate. I'll be cheating on my diet today, likely all week. I'm not even going to give myself a hard time over it. It's not only planned, its expected. Part of the whole motherhood thing. Wait until he starts kindergarten next year!

This and That

2007-05-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all of the winners in the Scavenger hunt. The response was great and everyone had a wonderful time.

I've quit smoking. Officially, I quit on January 21st, but I wanted to make sure it stuck this time before mentioning it. I tried a new drug on the market called Chantix. Several friends recommended it and it worked for me. It didnt work for my husband. Stopping is an individual thing and what works for one doesnt work for another. He'll keep trying until he finds his own way.

My four year old is covered head to toe in poison ivy. Poor thing, seems he takes after me on that one. Hubby can roll in it, oldest son is a little allergic, but I can catch it if its burned in another state. Seems the little one is gonna have the same problem. He has passed it on to me, across my neck and on one cheek. Seems one of his little hugs left a mark. Definately well worth it.

Guess that's it for now, I'll check in again later.

Spring Scavenger Hunt

2007-04-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

In celebration of spring and to show our appreciation for our readers, New Concepts authors are holding a Spring Scavenger Hunt exclusively for members of the New Concepts Readers and Authors Yahoo group.

Not a member of the group? Click here to join:http://groups.yahoo.com/group/new_concepts_pub/join

Perks of membership include advance excerpts, members only contests, announcement of new titles, and one-on-one contact with authors. The details of the Spring Scavenger Hunt will be announced April 15th on the NCP Readers and Authors group. The last date for entry is April 30th. There will be SIX fabulous prize packages awarded. Each package will contain numerous goodies, including several NCP books. A sneak peek of the goodies included in the prize packages will soon be posted to the NCP loop.
Please come and join in the fun!

Teenagers -

2007-03-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

My oldest son is thirteen. Enough said.

Jaguar Moon Wins the Darrell Award!!

2007-03-27T06:05:00.000-07:00

The Mid-South Science Fiction and Fantasy Association awarded Jaguar Moon - Scent of a Mate the 2007 Darrell Award for Best Midsouth Novella. The award was presented at MidSouthCon this year.

Darrell Award Finalist

2007-03-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

Jaguar Moon is a finalist in the 2007 Darrell Awards. Winners will be announced March 24th.

Spring Fever

2007-03-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

It’s nearly that time again. To a lot of people, spring represents warm days, blooming flowers and rebirth. A time when the gray days turn bright and full of life. Spring cleaning, yard work, getting everything in order.

For me, chirping birds and buttercups seem to bring a sort of craziness in me. I’m like the energizer bunny on speed. Last weekend I redecorated my main bath. Daffodil yellow--guess I was just a little too happy to see them blooming this year. Three coats later and I’ve found a color I can live with.

This past weekend I spring cleaned my house, or at least the downstairs. It started Friday night in the kitchen. I was going to clean out the refrig. Then came the small freezer, but that left the big one so I cleaned it out. Then one cabinet, which led to another and well you get the picture. By two a.m. my kitchen was perfect and I passed out in bed.

Then came Saturday morning. One cup of coffee and I was dusting the china cabinet. I blew through the rooms, cleaning out closets, toys, clothes. I threw out the toddler bed, put up a twin. By midnight I was exhausted but thought I had finally gotten it out of my system.

I dragged my butt out of bed Sunday morning, my rarely used muscles screaming. A pot of coffee later and I was in my bedroom tossing things out like a mad woman. My car no longer fits in the garage, my husband and kids fear me and I still haven’t made it upstairs. Or to the attic. And the garage is definitely begging for it. Then there’s my car that needs cleaning, leaves that need raking.

Meanwhile I have three stories that are sitting on the verge of completion, begging to be finished. It’s all a little overwhelming. Spring officially arrives next week, I’m just hoping I make it.

Meet Daisy!

2007-02-05T11:55:00.000-08:00

Here's the newest member of the family, a ten month old boxer. She came from the animal shelter, as an owner turnover. Her name is Daisy and she's a sweet as they come.

She also came with a bad case of kennel cough, but she's recovering nicely. She passed it on to our other boxer even though he'd been vacinated, but he's not holding that against her.

Here's a picture of her and Leo, he's completely crazy about her. Looks like I'm no longer the only female in the house. We're taking turns being boss, but I'll admit she's a natural.

#3 on Fictionwise!

2007-01-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

Jaguar Moon - Scent of a Mate is #3 at Fictionwise top sellers. Check it out
http://www.fictionwise.com/servlet/mw;jsessionid=NVS8MVT-PtLcgOOEN1ODq5N4sBc?a=rewrite&url=/topstories.htm

Catching up in the new year

2007-01-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

Just checking in for a quick update. With the holiday's done everyone seems to be busy starting their new year off. It's a good time to complete those unfinished projects you've ignored lately. And that's exactly what I'm doing. I have just completed the edits on The Ravenmocker, and I'll give it one more read through before I ship it off to my editor. Here's hoping she likes it. I'll post a blurb on my website in a few days.

Malcolm's story is going well, with a few surprises even to me. I love it when a story takes on a life of its own, which is exactly what this one is doing. A few minor adjustments and we'll be headed for the finish line. I'm hoping to have this one done in the next month or so. I'll keep you posted.

Hope everyone enjoyed their holidays and here's to a wonderful new year.

New Interview at The Romance Studio

2006-12-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

My first interview is up at The Romance Studio Blue. Holly did a wonderful job and I really had a great time. If you have a minute, check it out!

http://www.theromancestudio.com/blue/who5.php

Five Angels from Fallen Angel Reviews

2006-12-01T08:31:00.000-08:00

Here's a review from Lisa at Fallen Angel Reviews:

Jaguar Moon: Scent of a Mate

Miakoda is a Nahual; she has the ability to walk as a cat or a human. She is a descendant of the Mayans and the gods. She is also a Leguar; half Leopard, half Jaguar. She was banished for what they called her tainted blood. Devante is prince of the Jaguars. To be able to rule he must marry someone who carries the blood of the Jaguar Moon. Miakoda is the only person who carries this blood. Not only does he need to marry her but also needs her help with the other hybrids to defeat the evil responsible for the existence of the hybrids. To accomplish this Devante must overcome not only her reluctance to have anything to do with the people who banished her and her parents but he also has to stop someone from killing her.

Jaguar Moon: Scent of a Mate has a wonderful, exciting plot that will grab you from the beginning. This story is full of suspense, action, and drama that give the book an intensity that will knock your socks off. The supporting characters were used to add dimension to the story. Teri Adkins was able to make the story come alive as I read it. I felt like I was there experiencing everything. I enjoyed following Miakoda and Devante as they tried to overcome all the obstacles and their differences to fall in love and have a good marriage. The sex scenes were well written and enjoyable to read. Teri Adkins wrote a romance with a dark undertone that is not only entertaining but also wonderful and exciting to read. I enjoy every minute of Jaguar Moon: Scent of a Mate.
Reviewed by: Lisa

9 Quills for Jaguar Moon on Novelspot

2006-11-30T07:59:00.000-08:00

Posted by Morgan Wyatt at Novelspot:

“A good man is hard to find” is a phrase often quoted by females on the prowl. A really good man is even harder to find when you’re not totally human. Perhaps when the moon is full and the breeze is right, you turn into an animal—not the party kind. The chances of picking up a shape-shifter at the local sports bar are remote. So how does a half jaguar, half-leopard, 100% female meet an appropriate mate? Author Teri Adkins answers that question in her new book, Jaguar Moon.

Miakoda appears to be a beautiful woman with her golden skin and ebony curls. Aware of her ability to shift shape into a leguar, she decides to devote herself to saving the vanishing jaguar in an animal preserve in Belize. As a trained, compassionate healer, she is making strides in rescuing the jaguar—though not as much as she would like. Living among the animals only seems to highlight her sense of aloneness. Everyone seems to have a mate, except her. Her loneliness makes her vulnerable to the appearance of a mysterious leguar in her preserve.

Devante, prince of the jaguars, watches his chosen queen approach the rogue leguar. Ethan, his friend and fellow shape shifter, brought him news of the exotic female shape shifter. It doesn’t take more than a second for Devante to realize he is looking at his mate, especially since he has already seen her in his mind. It is time for him to choose a mate, a queen, to help lead the jaguar people. Unfortunately, his chosen mate is circling an angry leguar intent on attack. Ethan and Devante watch the graceful battle, looking for an opening. When the rogue leguar strikes his queen, Devante’s only goal is to wipe out the creature that would dare attack Miakoda. His prey escapes when the rogue leguar turns into a bird and flies away. What type of creature could it be? All the shape shifters he is familiar with change into only one creature.

As soon as Miakoda is scented, all thoughts of the rogue leguar disappear. His new mission is to mate with Miakoda and make her his queen. It should be a simple thing since jaguars are known for their sensuality. A powerful jaguar in the leguar’s clinic is unusual, but when Devante reveals his muscular, sun-kissed blonde, nude form, Miakoda is surprised, and pleasantly so. Controlled by her human side, she doesn’t fall into the prince’s arms as he hopes. Devante’s life is suddenly complicated by a courting dance, a rogue shape shifter who may not be what he seems, and then there’s the council—who believes Miakoda is the traditional sacrifice to insure the continuation of the tribe.

The characters in Jaguar Moon are no cardboard cutouts. Being fully human and fully animal with a range of instincts and feelings for both sides—is much more than simply being well rounded. It is intriguing how Devante, Miakoda, and Ethan transition seamlessly from human to animal form. Devante combines the right amount of confidence and dominance as jaguar and prince. Miakoda is the quintessential strong, independent woman. Ethan is fully fleshed out as the loyal, intelligent friend. They are all very sympathetic characters.

Jaguar Moon is exactly what a book should be: a pleasure to read. It is not the same old boy meets girl story. Far from it. When you feel like taking a walk on the wild side, reach for Teri Adkins’ Jaguar Moon. You won’t be disappointed!

Reviewed by Morgan Wyatt© September 2006
Check out the review for Jaguar Moon here.

Scavenger Hunt

2006-11-12T14:09:00.000-08:00

Fellow NCP author Michelle Pillow is running a scavenger hunt hosted by Romance Junkies. Click on the image to the left to play. Great chance to win prizes from over 60 authors.

So follow the link to play, have fun and good luck!

Jaguar Moon - New Review from Romance Reviews Today

2006-11-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

Devante is the prince of his people, the Jaguar, a race of shape shifters descended from ancient Mayans. The Jaguar king and queen are dead, and it’s time for him to take his throne. To do that, he needs to join his Jaguar Sun line with the line of the Jaguar Moon, the only problem is that Miakoda is the last woman remaining of that line and she’s a hybrid, a forbidden blend of Jaguar and Leopard. His father personally cast out Miakoda and her parents, and she’s highly unlikely to forgive the slur. Devante has been planning to give her time to settle into the Wildlife Sanctuary and then he will reveal himself to her and ask her to be his mate. But time has run out; his visions show Miakoda’s death, and Devante can no longer wait to claim his Queen.

Miakoda is lonely; since her parents' deaths there has been no one to talk to, no one whom she can share her true self with. Because she's a Leguar, none of the Nahual, the shape shifter races, are willing to associate with her. The king of the Jaguar made that quite clear; she can still remember her mother’s despair when the Nahual Council turned her family away. Convincing herself that she doesn’t yearn for their acceptance and company is, even now, difficult at times. After Devante saves her from a shifter attack, Miakoda is both grateful and annoyed. How dare he interfere in her life?

Devante reveals to Miakoda that her parents were not a love match. During the Great War between the shifters and the vampires, Sinock, a breeder, assured the Nahual council that hybrids would be stronger and better able to defeat the vampires. The council voted to allow the inter-breeding, and the results weren’t what Sinock promised. Many of the hybrids were deformed or became psychotic, the perils of mixing basic natures that don’t agree. For example, a lion who needs a pride, and a tiger who prefers to be solitary. Sinock was banned and took his revenge by kidnapping Miakoda’s parents, the heirs to their respective thrones, and forcing them to breed. They weren’t the love match Miakoda believed they were. Fast forward to today, hybrids are disappearing and going rogue at alarming rates. The council has made the decision to bring the hybrids back into the Nahual fold, and they need a representative; who better than a queen who is, herself, a hybrid?

In SCENT OF A MATE, we are introduced to the Nahual, a fascinating people: wolves and jaguar, bear and leopard, many races with differing perspectives on life. Devante understands his obligation; he must represent the Jaguar on the council, and if that means mating with a hybrid, so be it. Once he meets Miakoda, he realizes that it isn’t such a bad thing to mate with her. She’s brave and loyal, strong and sexy, a mate to be treasured, not tolerated. Miakoda can’t stand the thought that her parents were denied their rightful places in life because of her. Hearing about their history only makes her hate the council more than she already does, but she also feels the pull to help the hybrids. How can she resist the urge to help those who are like her? Being the queen of the Jaguar is not a position she yearns for, but if it will help her people, it must be done. Time spent with Devante reveals his noble and caring personality; perhaps being mated to the sexy Jaguar won’t be something she does just to help her fellow hybrids.

Secondary characters are many, and I look forward to reading more about them in future Jaguar Moon books. Ethan is Devante’s friend and fellow Jaguar. Manus, king of the Leopards and Mia’s uncle, makes it clear that Mia is under his protection. Biorn, Ulfric, and other members of the council offer their opinions even when they’re not requested. Many other members of the Jaguar clan, as well as several hybrids, add to this wonderful story.

SCENT OF A MATE has all the requisites of a truly superior book: danger and romance, a tightly written storyline, and characters who all are unique and interesting in their own right, as well as realistic dialogue and a setting that is both unusual and well described. Don’t miss the first in the Jaguar Moon series, a true keeper. SCENT OF A MATE deserves a place in your library.
Romance Reviews Today
Lori Ann

Small Steps

2006-10-30T05:57:00.000-08:00

October has always been my favorite time of year. It was my daddy’s favorite as well. We lost him three years ago and to be honest I’ve dreaded autumn every since. Too much pain to enjoy the beauty when he wasn’t here to see it.

Yesterday I took a story I was working on out to the deck, more to find silence than to enjoy the day. The weather was nice and I ended up watching a hawk perched on the fence for several minutes. Then I noticed the beautiful yellow, orange and burgundy color of the trees. The slight breeze had the leaves falling like a rain shower to the ground, creating a carpet of color. It was breathtaking, and I thought how daddy would have loved it. But this time thinking of him didn’t bring tears, but a smile instead. I ended up enjoying the day but got little editing done. It was worth it.

It wasn’t until this morning, on my way to work, that I realized what had happened. I had passed a milestone. I guess time really does dull the sharp edge of pain. I know there are a lot of painful times ahead, they can’t be helped when you lose someone so important in your life. But for now I’m content to enjoy what I’ve been given. I’m tired of the tears when I think about him. I want to smile, to celebrate his life. To have his memory bring happiness, not pain. I think it’ll happen. Eventually.

So Happy Halloween everyone, get out and enjoy this time of year. Take time to watch the leaves put on a show of color, carve a pumpkin, or just sit outside and enjoy the cool weather. We move through life fast, and sometimes we forget to stop and enjoy it. Here’s a reminder.

More Reviews for Jaguar Moon

2006-10-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

Angel at Romance Junkies...Blue Ribbon Rating: 4

JAGUAR MOON is an interesting tale that will hold the reader enthralled until the last page. Delving into the mystery of the Jaguar people and finding out more about them will keep the reader turning the pages. Devante is sexy and a major hunk with a sensitive side that comes out when dealing with his people. Miakoda is a courageous character that has to overcome the past in order to move forward, but she’s brave enough to do it. Explosive love scenes leave you breathless in anticipation of the next encounter. Teri Adkins is a creative writer and I only hope that this is the first in a series about the Jaguar people.

By Romance Junkies Reviewer: Angel

http://208.109.92.234/artman/publish/article_6714.shtml

Jaguar Moon - First Review Five Stars!

2006-09-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Linda B at The Romance Studio writes...

Miakado was a Leguar, half jaguar and half leopard, and her family had been exciled from the Jaguar Clan. No hybrid was allowed in their clan as they feared inter-breeding would weaken their strength. Miakado grew up in the states where children teased her cruelly for being different, and since her parents had died tradegely trying to save hybrids she felt alone for the first time in her life. It had been six months since their death and she still found it hard to make it on her own. So when she was offered a position in Southern Beliese where she would save hybrids she jumped at the chance to continue her parents fight. Now, it appeared that after twenty-five years the Jaguar Elders needed her to fix the problem that they had created by allowing that monster, Sinock to experiment with the races when he created beings from two animals that should never have been mated! Now some of those beings could not fight the madness of two souls in one body and they went insane, attacking innocent animals. They had the nerve to send an arrogant jerk like Devante who was biased against the hybrids because one raped and killed his sister. No matter, she would not do it. No matter how good he looked!
Prince Devante ruled the sun and in order for him to inherit the throne and be king he needed to be mated with the one who carried the Jaguar Moon in her blood to save his people and there was only one left from its bloodline--Miakoda. But she was not pure of blood, she was a hybrid. He hated hybrids but he had to make her mate with him to save his people. He had to guard his heart at all costs for the sake of his dead sister.
Terri Adkins writes an awesome story that left me speechless! Jaguar Moon was slow in starting but it quickly hooked me by the fourth chapter. Then it became fast paced with hot, sweaty sex that left me breathless. Towards the end I could not wait to see what happened next! Shapeshifters, lions, tigers, jaguars, bears and leopards! Oh my!! This is a must read!

Overall rating: Sensuality
rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Linda B.
September 28, 2006
http://www.theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/jaguarmoonadkins.htm

The Crimson Fold

2006-09-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

Cravings has teamed up with Vampire Close by Susanne Saville and released in print as The Crimson Fold. (The cover is from Susanne's ebook release of Vampire Close) Read the blurbs below:

Cravings by Teri Adkins: Lindy Campbell must stop a killer who's staking vampires, leaving them to meet the dawn. Her only hope to avoid the same fate is Detective Joe Andrews, the man who dumped her when she became one of the bloodsuckers. Cursing his soul to hell the last twelve months has done nothing to dampen the fire between them. She's hotter than ever and her cravings are getting worse....
Throw in a rogue who's turned loose on the city, a vamp fatale who has set her sights on Joe, and the Mayor breathing down her neck, and it's no wonder Lindy is cranky these days. Not to mention her blood is the key to saving the human race, or wiping out the vampire forever. The stress is enough to drive a girl to murder.
Rating: Contains graphic sex, language, violence, and adult content.

Vampire Close by Susanne Saville: Fiona MacPhee is a woman with a mission--and a very dark secret. Sidekick to a famous demon hunter, Fiona must scour Edinburgh for the answer to a cryptic prophecy before an ancient evil rends the veil between the worlds at Samhain. She can't afford any distractions. Especially not from Rory MacLaren. A handsome, charming rogue, Rory is also a 260 year-old vampire. When Rory catches Fiona in a deserted wynd after midnight, his offer of help could not be better--or more suspiciously--timed.
Rating: Contains sexual content, adult language, and some violence.
Cover art (c) Dan Skinner & Kat Richards 2006
http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/thecrimsonfold.htm

Just Released

2006-09-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

Deep in the rain forest of Southern Belize, high in the Maya Mountains, live the Jaguar people. Descendants of the ancient Maya, they are Nahual, born to walk as cat and man.
Devante, prince of the Jaguar, carries the blood of Itzamna, the Jaguar Sun. In order to inherit the throne and save his people, he must join his line with that of Ixchel, the Jaguar Moon. Only one carries this blood.
Miakoda is Leguar, born into a new race of hybrid cats. Half jaguar and half leopard, she was banned at birth by the jaguars for her tainted blood. Now she must join with their prince in order to save the hybrid cats from the monster that created them.
http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/jaguarmoon.htm

New Cover

2006-08-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here's the new cover of Jaguar Moon - Scent of a Mate. Eliza Black did the cover and as usual, I'm just tickled with it. All of the cover artist at New Concepts Publishing do a wonderful job. Here's a blurb:

Deep in the rain forest of Southern Belize, high in the Maya Mountains, live the Jaguar people. Descendants of the ancient Maya, they are Nahual, born to walk as cat and man.

Devante, prince of the Jaguar, carries the blood of Itzamna, the Jaguar Sun. In order to inherit the throne and save his people, he must join his line with that of Ixchel, the Jaguar Moon. Only one carries this blood.

Miakoda is Leguar, born into a new race of hybrid cats. Half jaguar and half leopard, she was banned at birth by the jaguars for her tainted blood. Now she must join with their prince in order to save the hybrid cats from the monster that created them.

Together, they must find a way to join their two worlds when the species have spent a lifetime hating each other. That is the least of their problems. The hybrids are spread out, alone and being hunted. They are not only turning rogue in trying to deal with their own inner wars, but are disappearing at an alarming rate.

In order to defeat the evil threatening their people, Devante and Miakoda must risk everything. But at what cost will victory come?

Smothering my Muse

2006-08-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks my push to finish a story turned into a struggle. With the first draft complete it should have been easier. I recognized the problem areas, knew what I wanted to accomplish, yet was distracted. My mind was wandering to other stories, and characters were running through my mind in pure chaos. In short, my muse was running amuck.

I’ve never given much thought to my muse. I know what stirs her, like a good rain storm, but she’s always been there, just a part of me. We’ve never had a problem concentrating on a story once we’ve completed the first draft. So maybe I just wasn’t focusing enough.

My best writing is done early morning before reality encroaches. The thirty minute drive to work is ideal--quiet with few distractions. (Okay, I’ll admit I’ve pulled into the parking lot without remembering the drive, or nearly rear ended a semi over a good scene. No, I’m not proud of this—actually a little terrified if you want the truth.)

To focus on the story I decided no more music in the car, no more reading until this story was done. (Since I don’t read in the same genre while I’m writing, my TBR pile was growing.) No more movies either, and I stopped those wasted daydreams unless they were about the current story. Every spare minute was spent on writing, editing and polishing.

Two weeks into this my muse packed up and left me. I couldn’t really blame her, I’d have left too had that been an option. My writing had ceased entirely, my mood was scary and still no rain, with none in the forecast. My muse was smothering at my hands. Finally, I couldn’t stand my own company any longer.

I decided to scrap the book, my writing, and my sanity. All over rated anyway. I popped in a CD, grabbed a good book and read the entire thing. I felt renewed, relaxed when I finally went to bed. This morning my muse popped up on the way to work. She’s a smart ass little thing, but we fit well together. I’m just glad I didn’t smother her entirely.

A good storm equals a perfect scene

2006-07-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

Rain is in our forecast, and I'll admit I'm excited about it. We certainly need it to lower the temperatures, stop the dust from blowing and water just about everything. But that's not what has me hoping for rain.

I love a good storm. When the sky turns a deep shade of green it's dangerous, energizing, and beautiful. The dark shades of gray bring a hint of the darkness, brooding and angry. There is power in the buildup, calm in the lull of the rain and renewal of life in the aftermath. Add sound and light from thunder and lightening and you have the perfect stage. Anything can happen.

It's the perfect backdrop to feed my muse. All the elements to craft that perfect scene. My writing has been slow this month, and I blamed it on the heat. Summer sun. Most of my writing is done in the winter months, when night comes quicker, the kids are in bed early and the wind is howling outside. But even that compares to a good storm.

So the next time you see those clouds forming and hear that boom of thunder, just remember that somewhere someone is writing the perfect scene.

Summer in the South

2006-07-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

The temperature today is 99. Tomorrow the weather channel is predicting 101, and Thursday we're looking at 104. We're baking down here. Here's a little something to make you laugh while you enjoy this heat wave. (author unknown)

Dear Diary:
May 30th: Just moved to Memphis, Tennessee...Now this is a city that knows how to live!! Beautiful sunny days and warm balmy evenings. What a place! Watched the sunset from the River lying on a blanket. It was beautiful. I've finally found my home. I love it here.

June 14th: Really heating up. Got to 100 today. Not a problem. Live in an air-conditioned home, drive an air-conditioned car. What a pleasure to see the sun on the water everyday like this. I'm turning into a sun worshipper.

June 30th: Had the backyard landscaped with western plants today. Lots of cactus and rocks. What a breeze to maintain. No more mowing lawn for me. Another scorcher today, but I love it here.

July 10th: The temperature hasn't been below 100 all week. How do people get used to this kind of heat? At least it's kind of windy though. But getting used to the heat and humidity is taking longer that I expected.

July 15th: Fell asleep by the pool. (Got 3rd degree burns over 60% of my body.) Missed 3 days of work. What a dumb thing to do. I learned my lesson though. Got to respect the ol' sun in a climate like this.

July 25th: The wind sucks. It feels like a giant freaking blow dryer!! And it's hot as hell. The home air-conditioner is on the fritz and the A/C repairman charged $200 just to stop by and tell me he needed to order parts.

July 30th: Been sleeping outside by the pool for 3 nights now. $1,500 in damn house payments and we can't even go inside. Why did I ever come here?

August 4th: It's 105 degrees. Finally got the air-conditioner fixed today. It cost $500 and gets the temperature down to 85, but this freaking humidity makes the house feel like it's about 95. I hate this stupid city.

August 8th: If another wise ass cracks, "Hot enough for you today?", I'm going to strangle him. Damn heat. By the time I get to work the radiator is boiling over, and my clothes are soaking wet!!

August 9th: Tried to run some errands after work. Wore shorts and sat on the black leather seats in the ol' car. I thought my ass was on fire. I lost two layers of flesh and all the hair on the back of my legs.

August 10th: The weather report might as well be a damn recording. Hot and sunny. Hot and sunny. Hot and sunny. It's been too hot to do anything for 2 damn months and the weatherman says it might really warm up next week!! Doesn't it ever rain in this damn desert?? Water rationing will be next, so might as well watch $1700 worth of cactus just dry up and blow into the damn pool. Even the cactus can't live in this damn heat.

August 15th: Welcome to HELL!!! Temperature got to 105 today. Forgot to crack the window and blew the damn windshield out of the car. The installer came to fix it and said, "Hot enough for you today?" My wife had to spend the $1500 house payment to bail me out of jail. Freaking South. What kind of a sick demented idiot would want to live here?

That'd be me! :)

Cravings to be released in print

2006-06-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the great response from readers on the ebook version, I'm thrilled to announce that Cravings will be pairing up with Vampire Close, a great story by Susanne Saville, and will be released in print from New Concepts Publishing in late August. I'll post more on the details later.

Coming Soon

2006-06-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

Jaguar Moon - Scent of a Mate will be released in late August from New Concepts Publishing. Here's a sneak peak at the blurb:

Deep in the rain forest of Southern Belize, high in the Maya Mountains, live the Jaguar people. Descendants of the ancient Maya, they are Nahual, born to walk as cat and man.

Devante, prince of the Jaguar, carries the blood of Itzamna, the Jaguar Sun. In order to inherit the throne and save his people, he must join his line with that of Ixchel, the Jaguar Moon. Only one carries this blood.

Miakoda is Leguar, born into a new race of hybrid cats. Half jaguar and half leopard, she was banned at birth by the jaguars for her tainted blood. Now she must join with their prince in order to save the hybrid cats from the monster that created them.

Together, they must find a way to join their two worlds when the species have spent a lifetime hating each other. That is the least of their problems. The hybrids are spread out, alone and being hunted. They are not only turning rogue in trying to deal with their own inner wars, but are disappearing at an alarming rate.

In order to defeat the evil threatening their people, Devante and Miakoda must risk everything. But at what cost will victory come?

Sun, Sand and Motivation

2006-06-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

It has become apparent that I don't get much writing done during the summer months. Coming off a four day weekend I thought about what I'd accomplished. We caught up on yard work, opened the pool and spent time time with the kids. One day was spent visiting with friends, grilling out and using the pool. All in all, not a bad four days by any standards.

But my page count was zero. Its not that I don't have the story jumping around in my head, I just can't seem to get it on paper. Once I'm in front of the computer I'm either pulled away or my mind goes blank. It could be me, or it could be my characters. I'm blaming it on the sun.

I'm writing Malcolm's story. He has proven to be difficult to say the least. The first two women I brought on stage failed miserably. The first one worked for about thirty pages. Then I realized there was no attraction between the two, just fondness and concern. More like a brother. Yikes! The second one, well, he nearly killed her. Then he stopped talking to me completely. When he got over it and introduced his heroine to me all I could do was say 'no way.' He wasnt listening.

We've compromised. He's telling the story and I'm writing it. Or trying to. I've got to get motivated, stop listening to that evil side of me that says 'it's summer, you should be in the pool.' I'm wishing for rain!

New Review: 5 Angels from Fallen Angel Reviews

2006-05-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

Lindy Campbell is known to all as a Vamphue, neither full vampire nor human. Having been bitten and not fully turned her life was almost destroyed. Now she the Director of Vampire Affairs, and it is her job to find out and stop the person who is staking vampires and leaving them to burn in the sun.Malcolm Montay is the one vampire who’s help she will need, and is the one who’s responsible for nearly destroying her life. If he has his way, then he will finish the job he started. For he intends to make her his bride for eternity.Lindy’s only hope is the one man who broke her heart when she became one of the so-called bloodsuckers. Detective Joe Andrews, who is still the only man she loves. Even while cursing him for dumping her, it has not dampened the fire between them. Her cravings are getting worse and Joe is the only one who can satisfy them.Now you put a vampire killer loose in the city and a vamp that has set her sites on Joe, not to mention the Mayor constantly harping for Lindy to find the killer, can you blame her for being cranky? Can Lindy keep her sanity while trying to take care of everyone as well as fight her cravings during the times she vamps out? Or will she have to surrender to Malcolm in the end and sacrifice her human side completely?Cravings is a very unique story of one woman who is neither in the vampire’s world nor the human’s. Between Lindy’s transitions from human to vampire and fighting her vampire nature every step, you actually feel the cravings and the fighting going on inside her yourself. Miss Adkins gives you an original perspective on what could happen if a person bitten by a vampire, and yet did not fully turn. This story is fast paced and exciting from the beginning to the ending. If you like Vampire novels, not to mention some twisted storylines, then Cravings is the perfect one for you. I for one am hoping to find another novel like this one from Miss Adkins because I will definitely read it.

Reviewed by: Debbie

http://www.fallenangelreviews.com/2006/April/Debbie-Cravings.htm

Winner! Congratulations Cathie

2006-04-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have a winner of my contest. Congratulations Cathie, you've won a copy of Cravings. I hope your as happy as my three year old, who received a marshmellow for picking the winner.

Thanks to everyone who entered and check back, I've got a new release coming soon and I'll be holding a new contest.

Teri

Win a copy of Cravings

2006-04-24T19:08:00.000-07:00

I've just finished my website, though its still a work in progress. To celebrate I'm giving away a copy of my ebook Cravings. Please stop by, have a look around and sign my guestbook at www.teriadkins.bravehost.com to register to win a copy of Cravings. The winner will be announced Sunday, April 30th. Good Luck!

NEW REVIEW - 4 Stars from Ecataromance

2006-04-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Rating 4stars
Sensuality Rating sultry

An amazing story to quench any thirst.

Review:

A powerful story of choice, Cravings deals in things that go bump in the night and a hunger that needs to be satiated. I loved Lindy because she was true to herself and dealt with whatever came her way, including being bitten against her will. She didn’t say of woe is me and then bemoan about the fact, she faced her problems head on and basically said this is what I am, deal with it. Her relationship with the two men in her life said it all. One man wanted her to become his and the other just wanted to be in her life again, even though he wasn’t happy with the circumstances of her life. How she was able to juggle these two men is beyond me, I know that I couldn’t have coped. Cravings made me think of all the kinds of racism in this world we call home, no matter who it affects we all feel the brunt of it. Full of unholy pleasure and the nature of humankind, Cravings will satisfy any creature of the night and deliver an amazing story to quench any thirst.

Reviewer Sheryl
Posted March 31, 2006

http://sensual.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=41

First Review - Four Stars

2006-03-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

Review from The Romance Studio:

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Explicit
Reviewer: Maura Frankman

March 8, 2006

Lindy is a vampire/human hybrid. She was bitten, but before the change was complete, she was given a transfusion. Now she is in limbo, neither one nor the other. She used to be a nurse, but that career option ended with the bite. She also had a man she was in love with, but he lost his partner to a vampire and now hates all of them including her. She is now Director of Vampire Affairs for the city of Memphis, a perfect job for someone who is neither human nor vampire. When the master of the city is staked and a human kidnapped, she must coordinate the vampires and the humans to protect themselves from the killer. She is forced to ask the help of the vampire who bit her, Malcolm, and the cop who dumped her, Joe. Malcolm wants to bring her over fully to vampire, and Joe still doesn't know how to handle her new status as a woman who occasionally grows fangs. The two are jealous of each other and she still wants both to some extent, but she has to put her own problems aside for the sake of the peace of the city. She manages to put things in perspective until the killer comes for her.
The author has created a world after a West Nile Virus outbreak. She makes it similar to the yellow fever and cholera pandemics of years past. In the wake of this, vampires are seen as victims of a virus, but that doesn't totally explain them. Lindy's doctor friend is trying to find a cure, but the one he comes up with is worse than the disease. Lindy has no family and has lost her career and all of her friends after being bitten. She has made a new life for herself, but especially misses Joe. The author also makes Malcolm a sympathetic character who seems to have some deep feelings for Lindy. She is attracted in spite of herself, but still hangs onto her sometimes hopeless love for the more human Joe. The author really did a great job with this story; I had no problem losing myself in her alternate reality Memphis.

http://www.theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/cravingsadkins.htm

JUST RELEASED

2006-01-16T06:45:00.000-08:00

Lindy Campbell is a Vamp-hum who's trying to rebuild her life. As the newly appointed Director of Vampire Affairs, it's her job to stop a killer who is staking vampires, leaving them to meet the dawn.
Malcolm Montay is the vampire who's responsible for nearly destroying her life, and he's looking to finish the job. Her only hope is Detective Joe Andrews, the ex lover who dumped her when she became one of the bloodsuckers. Cursing his soul to hell the last twelve months has done nothing to dampen the fire between them. She's hotter than ever and her cravings are getting worse.
Throw in a rogue who's turned loose on the city, a vamp fatale who has set her sights on Joe, and the Mayor breathing down her neck, and its no wonder Lindy is cranky these days. Not to mention her blood is the key to saving the human race, or wiping out the vampire forever. The stress is enough to drive a girl to murder.
http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/cravings.htm

Edits

2006-01-10T07:09:00.000-08:00

Last night I was knee deep in edits for Cravings. By 1:00 am I was blurry eyed. Then I received an email with a copy of the cover. Lets just say I didnt sleep a wink.

I sent the edits off this morning, so I now have time to stare at my cover. If I'd had that cover before I wrote the book, I would have had plenty of motivation to say the least. Not sure the story would have ended the same, since I've fallen for both of the guys. (I know, it's Lindy's life so she gets to choose her man!) Amber Moon, the artist who created the wonderful cover, captured them completely.

I've added it here so you can check it out for yourself.

A New Year

2006-01-06T08:12:00.000-08:00

The new year is always a time for fresh starts. New beginnings. My first ebook, Cravings, is due to be released next week from New Concepts Publishing. With it comes new hope. This is going to be my year.

So I have decided to start it off by creating my blog. I don't have a web site yet, and I needed a way to communicate with the readers. We'll build this one together.