Deidre Knight, Blog Entry 12/17:

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Earlier this week, I introduced you to Ajax Petrakos, the Hunkiest Man on Any Holiday List (we’ll have to check with People Magazine to see if he’s in the running for Hunkiest Man Alive status, although my vote’s already cast!). In case you’re new to my Gods of Midnight series, Ajax is the hero of my newly released paranormal romance, RED FIRE, and I tossed out a few holiday gift items that this strapping warrior might appreciate.

Well, by now I’m sure that Jax is awash in bug zappers, cashmere sweaters and sports cars, but what of his new wife, Shay Angel? This demon huntress has been adjusting to an awful lot of change recently, including marrying an…uh, unusual man. Consider if you will what she signed on for with Ajax:

Immortal dude? Check.

Battler of evil? Check.

Hogger of bed and blanket? Check. (Uh, wait…Shay says she doesn’t mind about that part!)

The main point is this: Shay Angel deserves a showering of holiday gifts, but knowing Ajax like I do, he’ll bumble around with this task if we don’t provide a little input. So in no particular order, here’s what I’m thinking Jax could give his lady love while playing the role of sultry, sexy Santa. (Side note: Saint Nikolaus actually was Greek, and Ajax met him around 300 A.D.. By Ajax’s recounting of the story, Ole Nik seemed particularly taken with Ajax’s red Spartan cloak, rubbing his beard as if the garment had just given him a secret idea.)

So now that we’ve cast Ajax in the role of St. Nick, he should display his sensitive side by booking a couples spa weekend at the Mansion on Forsyth Park. This Savannah landmark—and former funeral home—(no, it’s really not creepy) overlooks Forsyth park. That the spa’s name should be Poseidon, well I think that’s a sign that Ajax could be on the right track. Although as I review the list of services I note one facial called, “Lost at Sea,” so perhaps this isn’t the best idea after all.  Ajax’s beloved servant River is, in fact, presumably lost at sea right now, trapped there in the form of a dagger…I digress, but let’s keep the newlyweds away from the spa for now.

Plan number two: Ajax should indulge Shay’s desire to learn about his Greek culture by gifting her with a stay at this villa on the island of Lefkas.  If she complains at all, then I’ll take her place!

Plan number three, and a really excellent idea during the recession—flying lessons! And I don’t mean in an airplane. Shay adores going airborne in the arms of her winged warrior, but she’s been wrestling with slight vertigo during their recent flights of fantasy. Ajax could set about romancing her during middle of the night excursions, slowly helping her grow more accustomed to the competing sensations of flying in his arms and swooning beneath his mid-flight kisses.

These are just “starter” gift ideas, and I’d love to hear more of your own suggestions. And as I mentioned the other day, if you’re still looking for holiday gift ideas, probably the best thing you can do for any readers on your list is to sign them up for my newsletter. Go to my website or visit me on my message board holiday thread for Ajax and the rest of his Spartan compatriots. Christmas is a time for giving! And nobody understands that better than a Spartan.

Happy Holidays!