Hollywood Madam caters for ladies

Ms Fleiss says the "Heidi Stud Farm" will offer male prostitutes to female clients for $250 (£145) an hour.

She plans to open her business outside the town of Pahrump in Nevada, the only US state where some counties allow brothels to operate legally.

Ms Fleiss became notorious in 1995 when arrested for running a Hollywood call-girl ring for the rich and famous.

She served 21 months in prison, and made many in Hollywood nervous that her so-called "black book" of clients would be made public.

Ms Fleiss, 39, says she is sure her new service for women will be a hit.

"Women make more money these days, they're calling the shots, they're more powerful. And let's face it, it's hard to meet someone," she said.

"And then you've got the situation with the old husband leaving his wife for the younger girl, and the lady sitting at home crying.

"Well, now she has a place to go and say, 'Right back at you, buddy, and on your credit card'."

Legal problem

She is now seeking applications from would-be gigolos and hopes to have an initial "stable" of 20.

"The Hollywood Madam is looking for a few good men out there," she told Reuters news agency by telephone. "It's going to be an oasis in the desert."

She says she has gone into partnership with a licensed brothel owner in Nevada.

They plan to remodel one of his three establishments, the Cherry Patch, with features such as waterfalls, palm trees and skylights.

However, there is one problem. Nevada state law allows counties to deny brothel licences to convicted felons.

"There's still a little bit of legalities that we're working through," Ms Fleiss acknowledged. "But it's going to be okay".