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Grand Re-Opening!
February 9th, 2010 | 
Author: 
Sometimes bad things happen for a reason, and that’s the way I think of what happened to my blog last week. It had become “staid”. It was time for a redesign, which takes alot of time. Time I hadn’t planned in my schedule. It took something severe happening to the blog before I really got off my butt and made this more exciting and more fun!
First, I hope you like the layout. On the left you ‘ll see the books related to the True-Mates series. On the right, the Maxey Wizard Series. They will display in reverse order from here on out. It will make it easy for folks to know what book belongs to which series!
If you look down on the right, the last video you see isn’t one of mine. It’s a “random book trailer” for paranormal romances. :) if you know of an awesome video you’d like to put there, please let me know! I’ll be happy to add it!
Now, to celebrate, it’s time to have some fun! There’s a contest going on right now,
Oooh La La!
comparing my book cover with Moira Rogers book cover. Both are great, for sure. :) But in the discussions, I mentioned I have OTHER photos of my hero that may be fun to look at. And I do. Here’s a great one. I actually used this one to create the book Trailer, where it focuses in only on his eye. But there’s another one I like even better. And you can’t even see his clothes (or lack thereof). Now let me first be honest and tell you I did pay for the use of these images. Pleae do not take them and use them on your websites. But, this dude is a Russian model, and I found him on Dreamstime. 
Now isn’t that hot? He’s actually not showing much, but looks so myterious, and even looks older than he does in his other shots.
Ok, so it’s time to share a secret. When I was waiting on the edits for Lone Wolf (before the cover artist had contacted me), I had chosen the above photo for use in the video. I had actually looked at a photo of him barechested, and thought about using that, but never could find a way to make it fit.
So when the cover artist contacted me, I sent her a copy of the photo I thought of for Damon. The Photo I sent her was this face shot.
Imagine my surprise when I got the cover! OMG, it’s the same dude! And the hottest of all the photos available! Yes, he’s hot. Shame he probably doesn’t speak a word of English and will never know what we’re saying about him. LOL.
So, would you like to see the original photo which was later used for the cover? What? Did I hear you say NO? Oh, that was a YES! Okay, then I’ll share. 
So whatcha think? Worth the wait? I think he looks pretty good. So Kudos to the cover artist, who not only paid attention to what her author said, but who did a superb job with a great cover.
Ok, so now is the time for a little contest in our celebration/party! I’ll giveaway one, (or 2, maybe even 3) prizes for people who comment, telling me what they think of the new blog! And if there’s something you’d like to see added, tell me that too! Cuz this is here for you guys more than for me! I’m a lazy blogger, but I love to chat with people, and I love to play games and have fun, so anything you can suggest, we’ll see what we can add! So drop in a comment, and tell me what you think!
While you’re at it, tell me which Damon photo is YOUR favorite! And welcome to the brand new blog!
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50 Responses to “Grand Re-Opening!”
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I’ll admit that this is the first time I’ve been to your blog, but I really like the layout.. I love how easy it is to navigate! and OH MY that guy is HOT.. love the last pic. When I first saw him, he reminded me of the actor Ryan Phillipe
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Chrissy! Thanks for stopping by. :) Yes, that’s what I worked the hardest on, making sure this was easy to use. And yeah, he does in a way look like Ryan Phillipe. LOL Hadn’t realized that.
This is my first trip to your blog. I really like it. It’s easy on the eyes in more way than one ;). I really like the first photo the best. Those muscles make me….oh you know!
Twitter: elaing8
says:
This is also my first time at your blog. I found you through twitter this morning.I like the layout..the top banner is awesome.I like how you have each series on either side.
ok the gorgeous model…Its not easy to pick just one as a favorite. I mean come on look at him**drool on keyboard** But since you asked so nicely to pick just one as a favorite..hmmm..I like the first one best,the open shirt,bare chest..he looks so…yummy..lol.in that one :D
Ok, so now is the time for a little contest in our celebration/party! I’ll giveaway one, (or 2, maybe even 3) prizes for people who comment, telling me what they think of the new blog! And if there’s something you’d like to see added, tell me that too! Cuz this is here for you guys more than for me! I’m a lazy blogger, but I love to chat with people, and I love to play games and have fun, so anything you can suggest, we’ll see what we can add! So drop in a comment, and tell me what you think!
While you’re at it, tell me which Damon photo is YOUR favorite! And welcome to the brand new blog!
Hey Teresa!
I’m so lovin’ this new blog of yours! The layout is ultra smooth and the way you’ve set up the books on each side, each a separate series, – simplistic but edgy. The mini-videos make me grin. I am going to have to prise myself from the keyboard momentarily to watch those in a min.
I see you’ve invested in smilies! Cute! *Steals one or two.*
Suggestions? Hmm. I’m not sure. You could always put up some other wolfie images if you’re up to it. Don’t take my word for it though – I love it just the way it is.
I’m voting for the last Damon photo too! *Stares at abs some.*
I really like the layout :D! I find its easier to read when the background is dark and the text is light and the top banner is very visual and eye catching!
I love all the model pics, but since we have to choose… i pick the one with the sun glasses, he looks so mysterious lol
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Viki, Thanks. Yeah, he’s kind of easy on the eyes, isn’t he?
Elaing8, yes thanks for the comment. :) I love that top banner! It was a gift made by a friend! Isn’t it awesome? First one is good! I like the first image.
INCiDeNT: Mini videos – notice the video on the bottom right changes every time you come in. They are all paranormal romance trailers, so you should enjoy them. :) They show some of my favorite books/authors. And if you double click on the videos when you go to play, they will go to youtube and let you see the full size!
Beleth, – A woman after my own heart! Yes, I love the mysterious look. LOL.
Very nice layout and easily navigated. GREAT HEADER ART *giggles*. I like the photo with the glasses, though I think it would have been ever better without them. The coloring is great. My only recommendation would be adding some red or blue color accents to offset the header. By the way, LOVE the header! Just kidding, but really … I’m not!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Robin,
Great ideas to add some blue and/or red! I could probably find a way to do that. :) I’ve had fun recreating the blog, and I’m glad folks are really enjoying it.
I pity the fool who doesn’t:
Ok, just kidding.
Wow, I love this blog layout. Wanna do mine? hehe
I was torn between the first and last shot of Damon….but will go with the very last one. Please pardon my drool.
Oh, and hey if my book trailer isn’t in the list…please include the following in your random trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdsW-5zYvDs
BTW, how much longer do I have to wait for True Mates book 2? It’s my birthday tomorrow and I want to splurge…..
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Oh no, girl, it took me since Thursday to get this up and running. LOL LOTS AND LOTS of hours! Course, I did a heck of alot of tweaking that most probably wouldn’t even notice if I left it out. LOL.
Added your trailer! Didn’t know you had one! I remember thinking “Gotta see if Beth has one” then got distracted. Sorry bout that.
Anyway, yeah, the True Mates Book 2 isn’t quite out yet. Not too much longer! But won’t be out by your birthday! Happy Birthday!!! Yes, splurging is expected.
LOL Yeah you might wanna check out free reads. I think you might see that first one again, with a little faery dust added!
The link doesn’t work yet. I got a page not found but I will check back.
Okay, enough frolicking. I have to get back to editing my story. I’m at the halfway part and I’m tired. Sad thing is after I do my hand edits…I have to retype the stupid thing. (Don’t know what I was thinking putting this story different files by parts. They aren’t even chapters because I’m changing that around-the thrill of going back and working on the very first story I completed. Please no agonies. I’ll leave that for the Olympians.)
Yea! It’s up and running. The layout of the blog is nice – easy on the eyes, especially when your first blog is full of that yummy Damon! I think the shot you used for the cover is the best for the cover, but I also love that first shot… he’s a very *ehem* handsome male!
I can’t wait to read Faery Prince, too! I hope your new blog stays healthy!!
Hi hun~
*Waves* I am loving the new blog!!! i really like the header! And yes, the Hotiie……O.M.G. He is yummmmmies! i think my fav. pics from above is the head shot of him looking at the camera. you just get the fealing he’s realing looking at you!
As far as suggestions i really like what you have so far! If i think of any i will let you know!
Congrats on the Grand Re-Opening!!!
*Huggies*
JoJo
Love the pics!!! I can not decide if the one with him in the jeans is my fav or the first one… eye candy is always a plus!!! The set up is really nice and eye catching… Happy Relaunch Teresa!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
well dang,Beth – one thing I’ve noticed, auto blogging is not quite working. Let me get that going. :) Good luck with those edits. LOL.
TwiMom, thanks! I hope it does too!
JoJo, thanks for stopping in! You know, I kinda like that headshot too. You’re right, it does look like he’s looking righ tat ya!
Colleen, glad you ade it back. :) The jeans one is pretty awesome. And thanks!
Now off to figure out why it’s not showing the page for the freebie read of Faery Prince’s Mate
Yeah, he’s hot. Just remember that Russian men are raised to be MCP’s. Not all of them are, but the vast majority of them are. So, as hot as that luscious body is and as beautiful as those sculpted cheekbones and kissable lips are… what was I saying? Okay, I lost track just thinking about it. (grin)
My favorite pick is the close up with the sunglasses. Yummy! Yeah, I like the abs and the pecs, but there’s something about that sunglasses photo that I really dig.
And I’m not going to download your freebie reads. I still have DS to finish editing. LOL You are evil to tempt me like this.
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Yes Marci, people are a waiting, girl! Raised to be MCP??? Evidently I’m lost. Someone forgot to tell me what that means. LOL.
Yeah, those sunglasses make him so danged mysterious. Something about those dark lenses, hiding their eyes. Makes you just wanna pluck ‘em off to see what’s inside.
MCP probably means Male Chauvinist Pig
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
You are so right! I hadn’t put that in context I guess. Shoulda known. But ya know? The entire concept of Alpha males is close to that, only the female always works to set them on the right path!
Left you comments elsewhere. BTW, I was just telling my niece a few days ago how I usually avoid romance novels with a 10′ pole, except yours!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Well you tell that young lady when she’s old enough, she gets to read them too!
Thanks for taking a peek Ms. Inspector.
She will be 18 in May, and for some odd reason has decided that I am lately the best thing since sliced bread.
But she’s doing more writing of her own lately than reading, and it came up that there’s some of genres I really don’t like in general. But there’s an individual author or two in those genres, like her and her poetry, that I really like anyway and I used you as the example.
This is why she’s getting a website for her bday. I am undecided between wordpress and drupal for her, but I sure like what you’ve done with wordpress here! So I plan to show it to her for both your books and mad skillz.
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
I have worked with drupal too, and this is a bit easier. More of a “forum” style thing. Drupal is more for family sharing type of deal. I did make a genealogy site with it, but was never happy with it. Unless this has changed, here’s a drupal site: http://www.maro.net/carla/
It’s kewl that she’s writing poetry now. I never could do that. BTW, she’s old enough for the freebie read. :) Just a kiss in there.
I really liked working with Drupal for a multipurpose site, but I am not sure she will need that many purposes. Probably just blog + photography, which might be better suited to wordpress. We’ll see.
Hey, Teresa! I love the new blog – it’s very elegant looking. Don’t really have suggestions for improvement, it’s already great!
And I like the first picture.
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hi maered, thanks for stopping in. I’m so glad to hear you guys are enjoying the new layout. Makes all that time well wroth it!!!
Love it. But don’t forget ur male readers. :-D
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
You know Jim, I actually thought about that while I was putting this up. My books DO appeal to alot of male readers. In fact, an entire group of National Guardsmen (mostly men) in Iraq thoroughly enjoyed Tigress by the Tail.
So keep an eye out, I may have a “guy’s day” here on the blog as well!
I checked out the Lonewolf video and thought it well suits the synopsis (the only thing I’ve read about it) – and loved the atmospheric music with it. Then I read it’s available in print. Really? Cause that would be sweet. I prefer to have the books in my hands for some reason. ;D
I also loved the Dark Succession vid.! Now I want this book too. *Pouts.* You are a tease. Is it only in ebook form? One more thing: I’m lovin’ the effects used for the shapeshifting parts!
& I need to thank you for putting up the pics of the dude for your cover! Nicely done. ;) And for the link and mentioning of my contest.
For the link under your readers section to my blog too. Appreciate it much!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Oh and you are welcome for the links. :)
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey INCiDeNT,
Lone Wolf will be out in print sometime in March if all goes well. :) I’ll let you know when it is. I’ve had alot of fun with the Lone Wolf cover. I teased my husband about how I got my first “naked man” cover. LOL
Dark Succession will start in ebook form, and with that publisher, if sales are nice, they will take it to print, but not until then. It usually takes a bit longer there. SheWolf isn’t in print because it’s too short. Maybe one day I’ll write something to go between them as a short story and they can put SheWolf and the short together in print. :)
You’re gonna LOVE these books, girl, you’ve got to read them!
Congrats on the new look, Teresa! I like it! There a lot going on, but it’s organized pretty cleanly so that it isn’t confusing to find what you want! Plus, I pretty much want to read/see it all! I love that you’ve got the link to your main site clearly labeled, and your freebies :) Not much not to like…
And oooh… Damon! All the photos are gorgeous, but the last one lets us admire his beautiful chest as well as his face :D
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Fedora, thanks for dropping in. :) Glad you like it! And yeah,,,, lots to look at and enjoy! *ahem. Damon*. LOL
Oh maaaaaaaan, I’ve GOTTA learn to speak Russian…if only to ask if he can go to the archives in St. Petersburg and look for info on my Karl Dauthendey, the court photographer! (Yeah, right.)
Love the new blog, Teresa!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Lynne, LOL Kinda awesome, eh? Just for the archives, right? Right. NOT!
Very nice, Teresa! I like the first photo, but I also like his expression in the black and white. Tough choices.
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Babette, thanks fro dropping in. :) Yeah it is hard to decide! Wait till I show you guys the hero I chose for Dark Succession! Yes, I mean the guy in the video.
Teased your hubbie? I bet he appreciated that.
Great! March! I will definitely be on the lookout. And I have a feeling you’re right. Maybe it’s time to try my hand on a limited set of ebooks and become more flexible?
The hero for Dark Succession, eh? *Sing-song voice.* When’s this going to be?
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
LOL he’s a very confident man. :) He even hands out my cards when he gets the chance.
As for DS, have to ask my editor. She posted around here somewhere today.
I’m glad!
He does? Aww – That’s really sweet of him. ;)
Knew it. T-EASE. Hmm. If I guess correctly, will you confirm it?
BTW – Don’t pretend you’re all innocent, nobody’s fooled! (Well, at least I’m not.)
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
And I’m always innocent of SOMETHING.
*Crosses arms.* Don’t know?
…… Uh huh. Yep. Going to leave it be then. 
Innocent of something? Pffft!
I’d say prove it but . . . 
I love your new blog layout, it’s got a very nice flow to it and I realy like the grey tints with the background color. I also like the ‘Quote Rotator’, very unique idea.
The Damon photo…although Mama luvs seeing ripped abs and all, that closeup of his face just staring (at me) is just beautiful. *sigh*.
Congratulations!!!!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Mar, thanks for the compliments. :) I had the quote rotator on my last blog. Took me forever to find something that would do that. :) Just wish I could find one that works on the main website too. :)
And yeah, that closeup can make ya melt!
Twitter: CoffeeTimeRoman
says:
I LOVE the new look! It is beautiful!
I love the new blog look and what a great idea separating the books by the series they belong with!
My favorite picture of Damon is the face shot. There’s just something about that close-up B&W pic that really works for me.
~Heather
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hi Karenne, Heather, thanks for dropping in. :) Glad the “look” is working. :) ANd yeah, Heather, that is a very very nice shot of him!
I really like the series division on the sides — and I love the story about your cover model experience! He is definitely a good looking guy (and I sorta hope he does speak English so he can see all the nice things folks are saying here *g*). That last shot is the one I find most intriguing, so I’m glad it got used for the cover!
Twitter: Teresadamario
says:
Hey Alana, good to see you here. :) Yep, I had alot of fun with my cover model story. :) I wonder if he tries to find where his pics got used,. I know they have no say, once they are sold with the appropriate rights, but still, would be nice if he saw all the comments. LOL.