While riding on the train this morning, I counted three women of varying ages completely engrossed in reading “Twilight”, and it occurred to me that the villain of novels past has become the hero. Not so long ago (I refuse to date myself here), vampires were loathsome creatures we cowered at the sight of, pirates were swarthy brigands, and the hero was always the guy in the white hat who vanquished said vampires and pirates. When did the lines blur? Did I miss the news flash announcing that the hero could now be the bad guy? That he could be more than a little rough around the edges and not be one-hundred percent squeaky clean. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have a villain who looks like Johnny Depp, Robert Pattison, or even Hugh Jackman. You might think that I am complaining, but au contraire! For years (again, I refuse to date myself) I have endured mockery for rooting for the sidekick who never got the girl even when he really deserved to, for the tragic figure of the misunderstood ruffian. Now, I can finally hold my head up and say to all who laughed at me – I told you so!

What's in a Sign?

What can I say? It's corny, but I thought it would be a great way to introduce myself. If you were born between June 22 and July 21, your astrological sign is Cancer Your element: Water Your ruling planets: The Moon Symbol: The Crab Your stone: Moonstone Life Pursuit: Constant reassurance and intimacy Vibration: Moody Cancer's Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally, spiritually, romantically and financially) Those born under the sign of Cancer, ruled by the mysterious Moon, are one of the zodiac's enigmas. It is fair to say that most Cancers are a bundle of contradictions. Compassionate and caring with friends, family and lovers, yet they can cut to the bone with their jealous remarks and ever-changing moods. Endearingly eccentric on one hand, and on the other, insecure about how others see them. Like their astrological symbol - the Crab - Cancers can appear hard and insensitive on the outside. However, for those of us who know and love a "Moon Child", we understand that deep below lies a softness and sensitivity that makes them so very special. Just as the Moon goes through many changes as it moves from its new to full phases, Cancers too go through many new and full phases of experience. Life doesn't stand still for this sign, even if they remain in one place, because they live so much in their internal oceans of emotions. Their link with the Moon often makes it impossible for them to operate on an even keel from day to day. Up and down like the proverbial yo-yo, most Cancerians feel one way one minute, then sometimes totally different the next. But this characteristic is part of their charm. Love and romance matter more than anything else to this sign (but this occasionally shares first place with having lots of money in the bank). No other sign romances better, equally though, no sign takes it so badly when romance turns sour either. But with their changeable natures Cancerians are fascinating, mysterious, stimulating and extremely alluring. This sign is one of the most magic of all and once their magic has reached you, they are the most beguiling companions. After all, isn't the Moon the most talked about and romantic galactic identity? What better sign for a romance writer to be born under!