So nice to learm that the Babes in Toyland II anthology received 4.5 tombstones from Bittenbybooks
Babes in Toyland is a series of short stories, most of which take place around Christmastime. Each of the authors has contributed some excellent short stories to the anthology. Its ranged from Santa Claus to fey. There were some mysteries, some paranormal, a story even took place back in the days of the Israelites. This book definitely covered a wide spectrum of paranormal stories. And of course, was the ever present romantic theme. I wouldn’t recommend this book for young eyes though. There are some heavy romance scenes in the book.
I rarely read anthologies because of the short story aspect, but I found myself hungering for more at the end of each story. I liked it because it introduced me to the writings of a few new authors that I may not have found otherwise. So, if you’re looking for some light reading as a break from the normal heavy novel, then this book is definitely for you. Most anthologies only contain 4 or 5 stories, this one is definitely worth your money with 8 authors and different stories!
Friday, June 06, 2008
Sunday, June 01, 2008
5 Stars from Rainbow Reviews for The Sweet Flag
I just can't believe it: two top reviews in as many days! Here's a bit from the review:
Reviewed by Frost's Fancy
The historical background is accurate and appealing, and the author doesn’t burden the story with excessive detail. Rather, the historical characters as well as the two contemporary protagonists-Brand and Ron-are well-drawn and realistic. It’s easy to empathize with the various characters and understand their actions and thoughts. There is a very minor thread of historical BDSM present also.
The eroticism is highly detailed and steaming, presented from an emotional and romantic viewpoint as well as a purely lustful point of view. Brand and Ron are neatly matched and fit together surprisingly well.
Reviewed by Frost's Fancy
The historical background is accurate and appealing, and the author doesn’t burden the story with excessive detail. Rather, the historical characters as well as the two contemporary protagonists-Brand and Ron-are well-drawn and realistic. It’s easy to empathize with the various characters and understand their actions and thoughts. There is a very minor thread of historical BDSM present also.
The eroticism is highly detailed and steaming, presented from an emotional and romantic viewpoint as well as a purely lustful point of view. Brand and Ron are neatly matched and fit together surprisingly well.
Five Hearts from TRS for "The Sweet Flag"!
Hi guys, I just had to share my first formal review for "The Sweet Flag" from The Romance Studio's Dee Dailey:
"Ms. Barrack has written an exceptional story about gay romance with many historical tidbits thrown in... The story of the two sets of lovers is interwoven well with only a few subtle hints about what might be to come... As Ron tells the tale that he says he learned from the lovers' diaries it's easy to get our emotions involved.
The rejections, the abuses finally overpowered by love are superbly told. The dialogue, the explicit sex, the tale within a tale are all believable and draw us closer to the players. When Brandon finally confronts reality with Ron their actions and the completion of the story make perfect sense...
The author does such a great job of giving hints that only fans of paranormal romance will pick up on along the way. The ending is even better as the reality of the couples takes the story to whole new heights."
Overall rating: YYYYY
All I can say is, I'm still giddy! Thanks, Dee!
Labels:
Gay,
historical,
paranormal,
Reviews,
The Sweet Flag,
vampire
Friday, May 30, 2008
People are Talking about "The Sweet Flag"

From bbmrebel's Rebels' Ramblings LJ
"The First is a really cool story by Jeanne Barrack - The first book of her's that I've read, it's called "The Sweet Flag" available through Loose-ID http://loose-id.com/detail.aspx?ID=712A nice length novella coming in at 97 pages - This hooked my curiosity cause it mentioned the Civil War and Vamps - a combo you don't see often - She made these characters believable, she told a detailed story - and even though we kinda know what the end will be.. she keeps the story interesting so you want to read every word. I'm very glad I read this."
"The First is a really cool story by Jeanne Barrack - The first book of her's that I've read, it's called "The Sweet Flag" available through Loose-ID http://loose-id.com/detail.aspx?ID=712A nice length novella coming in at 97 pages - This hooked my curiosity cause it mentioned the Civil War and Vamps - a combo you don't see often - She made these characters believable, she told a detailed story - and even though we kinda know what the end will be.. she keeps the story interesting so you want to read every word. I'm very glad I read this."
So am I, so am I!
Here's a link to bbmrebel's journal: http://bbmrebel.livejournal.com/71916.html?view=214252
Sunday, May 25, 2008
First Review for The Sweet Flag!
I am so pleased to receive the first review from Elisa Rolle: My Reviews and Ramblings. Elisa is a reader from Italy and often reviews m/m books, so I'm happy she enjoyed Brandon and Ron's story!
Here's a snippet from the review:
"The book is written if first point of view and follows Brandon's thoughts. Like Brandon, also Ron seems to be a very "easy" man regarding sex, and so their relationship is from the start down and dirty. Ron has not a simple behavior, he sometime acts like a domineering man, and wants to be the Alpha of the moment, and soon after he seems to need the strenght and the reassurance of Brandon. Brandon instead is simpler, he has his scope in mind and he will do anything to reach it.
The story is not very long, little more than 100 pages, but it flows smoothly and enjoyable....But one of the strenght of the book is also to have perfectly mixed present and past, making enjoyable both stories."
Thanks, Elisa!
Here's a snippet from the review:
"The book is written if first point of view and follows Brandon's thoughts. Like Brandon, also Ron seems to be a very "easy" man regarding sex, and so their relationship is from the start down and dirty. Ron has not a simple behavior, he sometime acts like a domineering man, and wants to be the Alpha of the moment, and soon after he seems to need the strenght and the reassurance of Brandon. Brandon instead is simpler, he has his scope in mind and he will do anything to reach it.
The story is not very long, little more than 100 pages, but it flows smoothly and enjoyable....But one of the strenght of the book is also to have perfectly mixed present and past, making enjoyable both stories."
Thanks, Elisa!
Labels:
gay fiction,
historical,
paranormal,
The Sweet Flag,
writing
Monday, May 19, 2008
Just Released - The Sweet Flag

The Sweet Flag
ISBN: 978-1-59632-694-1
http://www.loose-id.net/detail.aspx?ID=712
Brandon Keats is a paranormal investigator, specializing in Civil War phenomena. As a gay man, he's searched for years for evidence of gay paranormal activity. When he finally finds what he believes to be an example of this, he decides to confront the ghost of a homosexual Civil War soldier at the grave where he's been sighted.Ron Tayvail has guarded the grave of Matthew Hardesty for years. When he learns of Brandon's interest in the legend of "The Vigilant Soldier", he's determined to dissuade him from any deeper investigation. He didn't realize that he'd fall in love with the fellow on first sight. And yearn to become his lover. For always.
To read an excerpt: http://www.loose-id.net/JBTSFex.aspx
Sunday, May 11, 2008
New Review for "The Collector 5: The Crystal Flacon"
4.25 Hearts from Kyraninse at Night Owl Romance
This was a truly enjoyable read – especially with the snippets of Lucrezia’s past interfacing with the present. I thought that the idea was a novel one and the execution superb....Although I loved Abby’s courage and resourcefulness and Antonio’s old-world charm – I have to admit that it was the interaction between Abby and Lucy that really stole my heart. The courtship between Abby and Antonio was tender and passionate, but the one between Lucy and Abby was what really moved me...Jeanne’s definitely going on my “to be closely watched for new releases” list."
This was a truly enjoyable read – especially with the snippets of Lucrezia’s past interfacing with the present. I thought that the idea was a novel one and the execution superb....Although I loved Abby’s courage and resourcefulness and Antonio’s old-world charm – I have to admit that it was the interaction between Abby and Lucy that really stole my heart. The courtship between Abby and Antonio was tender and passionate, but the one between Lucy and Abby was what really moved me...Jeanne’s definitely going on my “to be closely watched for new releases” list."
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Rough Blurb for "The Sweet Flag"
With The Sweet Flag coming soon from Loose Id, I thought I'd share a rough blurb.
Brandon Keats is a paranormal investigator, specializing in Civil War phenomena. He’s searched for years for evidence of gay paranormal activity. When he finally finds what he believes to be an example of this, he decides to confront the ghost of a Civil War soldier at the grave where he’s been sighted.
Ron Tayvail has guarded Matthew Hardesty's grave for years. When he learns of Brandon’s interest in the legend of “The Vigilant Soldier”, he’s determined to dissuade him from any deeper investigation. How could he realize that he’d fall in love with the fellow on first sight? And yearn to be with him. For always.
Can two men overcome differences beyond race -- and reality -- and become lovers?
Monday, May 05, 2008
Another Gorgeous Cover!

I just received my cover for the Liquid Silver Books repub of A Song of the Sidhe. Art work is by the incredible April Martinez!
One step closer to the release date!!!
One step closer to the release date!!!
Friday, May 02, 2008
My Gorgeous Cover for The Sweet Flag!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
A Song of the Sidhe has a New Home!
I am so thrilled to let everyone know that A Song of the Sidhe will be published by Liquid Silver Books sometime later this year. As soon as a release date is set, I'll let you all know!
Thanks, LSB!
Thanks, LSB!
2nd List of Irish Terran Names
This list includes both first and last names
Branigan, Brenningan, O Branagain, Brenda, Brendan
Colm, Colum, Colmcille, Columb, Columba, Colman
Fagan, O Faodhagain, FechinEinin, Enda
Galvin
Geileis
Guthrie
Kyne, Cadhan
Lonan
Mavelle
Niall
Séanait, Séighín
Please remember that there may be more than one meaning for these names
Branigan, Brenningan, O Branagain, Brenda, Brendan
Colm, Colum, Colmcille, Columb, Columba, Colman
Fagan, O Faodhagain, FechinEinin, Enda
Galvin
Geileis
Guthrie
Kyne, Cadhan
Lonan
Mavelle
Niall
Séanait, Séighín
Please remember that there may be more than one meaning for these names
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
4 Cherries for The Collector 5: The Crystal Flacon!
Can you say; "Doing the Happy Dance????
Four Cherries from Whipped Cream Reviews!
Here's what Fuschia had to say:
"This book did it for me, and I can't wait to get the others in the series (if there are any more). This story by Jeanne Barrack was a first by her for me but it won't be the last. Loved the concept of the story, enjoyed the tension between Abby and Antonio. If you are a fan of paranormal stories this has enough of a paranormal setting to satisfy in a short bite, equally with the contempory and mystery bits...this book is a keeper. And as I said in the opening paragraphs, I will be looking out for other Jeanne Barrack books."
Thank you so much, Fuschia!
Four Cherries from Whipped Cream Reviews!
Here's what Fuschia had to say:
"This book did it for me, and I can't wait to get the others in the series (if there are any more). This story by Jeanne Barrack was a first by her for me but it won't be the last. Loved the concept of the story, enjoyed the tension between Abby and Antonio. If you are a fan of paranormal stories this has enough of a paranormal setting to satisfy in a short bite, equally with the contempory and mystery bits...this book is a keeper. And as I said in the opening paragraphs, I will be looking out for other Jeanne Barrack books."
Thank you so much, Fuschia!
Irish Terran Names ~ Water Element
Now, the List:
Braden Ó Bradáin ~ salmon
Murphy Ó Murchu ~ hound of the sea
Murray Ó Muireadhach ~ seaman or master
Ronan Rónán ~ little seal
Murren, Maren, Mairenn ~ Sea-fair
Lucan ~ from the marshy hollow
Ennis ~ Island
Murtagh, Mortimer ~ skilled in seacraft
Murrow, Mrgan, Murrough ~ sea battler ~ These names imply that you're also a Protector!
If you couldn't find your exact name, check the one most similiar.
Next list up on Tuesday!
Braden Ó Bradáin ~ salmon
Murphy Ó Murchu ~ hound of the sea
Murray Ó Muireadhach ~ seaman or master
Ronan Rónán ~ little seal
Murren, Maren, Mairenn ~ Sea-fair
Lucan ~ from the marshy hollow
Ennis ~ Island
Murtagh, Mortimer ~ skilled in seacraft
Murrow, Mrgan, Murrough ~ sea battler ~ These names imply that you're also a Protector!
If you couldn't find your exact name, check the one most similiar.
Next list up on Tuesday!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Are You an Irish Terran?
A long-lost group of Terrans was discovered in my story “The Shimmering Flame”, available at http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/theshimmeringflame.htm
Check out this first list of Irish surnames. If your family name is listed leave a comment and I’ll tell you which Element the name reflects - Air, Water, Fire, Earth. Or could you be a Singer, Speaker or Protector?
For more information on the Terran Realm, check out this link http://www.terranrealm.com/index.htm and explore the Realm ~ Urban Fantasy with Heat!
FIRST LIST OF NAMES:
Braden Ó Bradáin
Murphy Ó Murchu
Check out this first list of Irish surnames. If your family name is listed leave a comment and I’ll tell you which Element the name reflects - Air, Water, Fire, Earth. Or could you be a Singer, Speaker or Protector?
For more information on the Terran Realm, check out this link http://www.terranrealm.com/index.htm and explore the Realm ~ Urban Fantasy with Heat!
FIRST LIST OF NAMES:
Braden Ó Bradáin
Murphy Ó Murchu
Murray Ó Muireadhach
Ronan Rónán
Lucan
Ennis
Murren, Maren, Mairenn,
Murtagh, Mortimer
Murrow, Morgan, Murrough
Leave a comment and let me know if you’re one of these Irish Terrans. I’ll reveal what Element they refer to at the end of the week and if you’re a Protector to boot!
Ronan Rónán
Lucan
Ennis
Murren, Maren, Mairenn,
Murtagh, Mortimer
Murrow, Morgan, Murrough
Leave a comment and let me know if you’re one of these Irish Terrans. I’ll reveal what Element they refer to at the end of the week and if you’re a Protector to boot!
Monday, April 07, 2008
New Outstanding Review for "The Shimmering Flame"

I am so thrilled! Another award for The Shimmering Flame from Simply Romance Reviews
Here's what Whitney had to say:
The Shimmering Flame by Jeanne Barrack is a fantasy packed adventure of life and love begun thousands of years ago and now being played out in the present.
This was a great book. The writing was crisp with vivid characterizations and descriptions and as a result you were immediately immersed in the lives and loves of Brigid as she struggles to combat an evil which has existed for thousands of years. The love scenes, both the real and imagined were vivid and compelling. Ms. Barrack has definitely left me panting for more. I can’t wait for the next installment of Brigid, Gabe and Ethan’s story.
Thanks, Whitney!
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Coming Soon - my first M/M story!

My first m/m erotic, historical, vampire romance, The Sweet Flag, is coming soon from Loose Id.
As soon as I get a cover, I'll post it to the blog.
As soon as I get a cover, I'll post it to the blog.
I really love these guys and I hope you will, too!
Meanwhile, here's a picture of the fellow who inspired one of my heroes.
Wonder if anyone will recognize him....
Saturday, March 22, 2008
New Review for "The Shimmering Flame"
Just received a new review for The Shimmering Flame from The Romance Studio - 4.5 Hearts! Here's a snippet of the review:
From Steph B. . . ."...a fascinating tale. Even though it is set in the modern day, so much of the story has to do with the past and the ancient people that it reads more like a historical in many sections. But it isn’t like a time-travel, you are aware they are in the present with all of the technology too. I love the classic good verses evil battle theme.... I can’t wait to see what will happen next in the sixth book of this series." Overall rating: 4.5 hearts Sensuality rating: Explicit
Thanks, Steph!
From Steph B. . . ."...a fascinating tale. Even though it is set in the modern day, so much of the story has to do with the past and the ancient people that it reads more like a historical in many sections. But it isn’t like a time-travel, you are aware they are in the present with all of the technology too. I love the classic good verses evil battle theme.... I can’t wait to see what will happen next in the sixth book of this series." Overall rating: 4.5 hearts Sensuality rating: Explicit
Thanks, Steph!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Looking for a New Home

Donal and Ceoleen from A Song of the Sidhe are looking for a new home in the forest. Until they've found a new haven, please check out The Shimmering Flame available at http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/theshimmeringflame.htm to get your Irish fix!
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