Dear Reader,

May 30, 2009 - It's a beautiful day today. Sun is shinning, temps in the high eighties, light breeze. I love spring. And to make things even better, the edits for CLOSE CONTACT, book two in the Alien Affairs series, are going very well. I've really enjoyed writing Echo Adams, the heroine in this book. While still a GEP, she's a lot different than Kiera from book one.

I still don't have a hard release date for book two yet, but it will be either Feb. or May or 2010. I've also seen the prelimany cover, and with a few adjustments, I think it will be perfect. Can't wait to post it here for you to see, too.

In other news, I'll be blogging at The Galaxy Express in July. I'm not sure of the exact date yet, but I'll post it here when I find out. Be sure to drop by if you get the chance. Also, I took the plunge and signed on to Twitter. So far, I'm pretty boring, but all my time is spent on edits at the moment. Maybe when they're done I'll have more to say.

April 1, 2009 - Lots of news today. It's release day for Close Encounters! Not only is the book available in bookstores, I just discovered it's also available on the Kindle and on Fictionwise. Comments from advance readers are pouring in. Here's a sample of what people are saying:

As I started this novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I am not a big sci fi fan, though I did enjoy Anne McCaffrey and others like her. This book, though, truly surprised me. Reading like an urban fantasy with lush environments and memorable characters that draw you in, Allred emerses her readers into a place where those wanting good plot get it and those wanting a romance with action are equally satisfied. - Angelle

This novel was a page turner from start to finish that grabbed your attention from page one and left you looking at the last page wondering if that was all. - D.T.

This is an amazing introduction to the series. It establishes a well-rounded, likable heroine in Keira and the world-building is superb. You really feel as if you are in the lush jungles of Orpheus 2, learning about the Buri culture as Keira does. The reader gets drawn deeply into the characters and plot, and I for one had a hard time letting go once I was done with the last chapter. - Chrys

Also, we have a tentative title for book two in the Alien Affairs series. It's Close Contact, and the book will introduce you to Echo Adams, a GEP with talents she never suspected she had.

Feb. 23, 2009 - As promised, the book trailer for Close Encounters is below. Hope you enjoy!

Jan. 5, 2009 - Welcome to my newly redesigned website! Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and check out all the new information I've included. I'd love to have your opinion on the design, so send me your thoughts via the contact form. If you include your snail mail addy (U.S. only) you could be one of the two lucky winners who will receive an autographed cover flat of my new science fiction romance, Close Encounters.

From now on I'll be using this page to keep you updated about the things going on in my writing life. For instance, I just received the news that Undercover Mistress, written under my Amethyst Ames pen name, has done very well in Japan, so a big thank you to all my Japanese readers!

Also, my very first novel, Ready or Not, has been translated into Norwegian. And I'll let you in on a secret. I like their cover much better than the orignal.

I also like the Japanese cover of Undercover Mistress better than the original version. Unfortunately, I don't have a copy of that one to show you.

Currently, I'm happy to say the second novel in the Alien Affairs series is finished and with my wonderful editor. I'm actually looking forward to the edits on this particular book. While I'm waiting to get them, I'm researching and plotting the third novel in the series.

And last but certainly not least, a HUGE thank you to Jeff, who's unique abilities and hard work are responsible for this wonderful, one of a kind website design!