I signed my first contract 10 years ago today.
Wow, just typing that still amazes me. Here I am 10 years later with:
16 full length novels published
3 full length novels in the process (soon to be published 2019/early 2020)
7 short stories or novellas
4 short stories in the process (soon to be published 2019)
I’ve come a long way in those 10 years. I never thought I’d write that many books in that time. The first 4 years of my publishing career I was still working a full-time job and taking care of my mom.
Once I was able to retire, I’d been at my day job for 30 years and it was time to get out of the corporate world. With retirement came a move, I moved myself and my mother from California to Washington state.
In my new house, I had my own office, something I wanted for years. While in the next few years, I wrote in fits and starts, because taking care of my mom became the priority. When she passed away, I stopped writing for close to six months.
When I started writing once again, the ideas started flowing and I allowed myself to just write and not worry. It was the best thing I could have done, it allowed my muse freedom to write and helped me get through the grieving process.
I love writing and letting my imagination take me places. Even after ten years there are still things that challenge me like marketing/promotion. It’s a necessary evil as I call it. It has to be done, otherwise people wouldn’t be able to find my books.
Writers are introverts, and I’m no exception, but I’m learning to be a little more outgoing with signings and public events. I still have to work on public speaking or readings, but that will get there. I’m a shy person, so I will say now if you ever see me, come up and say hi and start talking. I love meeting people, it’s just hard for me to make the first move.
I don’t know what the next ten years will bring, but I’m going to keep writing and putting books out there.
I dreamed of being a writer and getting published. Now my dreams are to keep publishing books that readers want to read, and to meet readers. Never give up on your dreams, and keep pushing yourself.
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Friday, August 30, 2019
Guest Blog: The Keys Voice of the Turtle by Karen Hulene Bartell
Today let's welcome Karen Hulene Bartell as she talks about her book The Keys: Voice of the Turtle
Tell us a little about yourself: Instead of a bio Karen gave us a fun fact
Fun fact—The “bright lights of Broadway” recollection of my lead character Keya from THE KEYS: VOICE OF THE TURTLE is a fictionalized account of my own theatrical experience in Manhattan at age eighteen. “Made it to off-Broadway, love. Close, but not quite the same.”
Tell us a little about yourself: Instead of a bio Karen gave us a fun fact
Fun fact—The “bright lights of Broadway” recollection of my lead character Keya from THE KEYS: VOICE OF THE TURTLE is a fictionalized account of my own theatrical experience in Manhattan at age eighteen. “Made it to off-Broadway, love. Close, but not quite the same.”
What do like the most and the least about writing?
Most—Writing is better than reading because I choose the action and ending!
Least—Post-publication marketing is the anti-climax of writing.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
THE KEYS: VOICE OF THE TURTLE Peek—Finding buried treasure and love, Keya moves forward, but can she save the beach? Can Ruth find Maita’s murderer or help Bart solve his 400-year-old mystery? Join their adventures as they mingle with ghosts and talk with turtles.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
Next—I’m in final edits for Wild Rose Pass, a completely new genre for me—Historical Western Romance, plus I’ve begun writing Kyoto: Tale of the Fox, a Mainstream Fantasy.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
Fun Fact—The protagonist of THE KEYS: VOICE OF THE TURTLE is named Keya. In the Lakota Sioux language, Keya means Turtle. The setting of the novel is the Florida Keys, and the premise is protecting sea turtles and their nesting beaches. Finding the name Keya for the main character—who is Native American and a turtle aficionado—was kismet.
Excerpt:
“These nesting grounds are the reason I’ve fought to keep this property intact. If this beach is developed, the impact will destroy it, but fighting the lawsuit is expensive. I’d hate to sell this place to pay court costs.”
“But you said keeping the nesting grounds intact is only part of the reason you stay.” Ruth gave her a sympathetic smile. “What’s the rest?”
“Call it my legacy.” Keya stood up straight. “When I’m gone, I’d like this beach to remain as nature intended it…for the turtles. Since I’ve never had children—”
Earnestine meowed.
Keya grinned. “That is, except for my furry, four-legged kids, I’ve never had children. I have no one to leave it to other than who or what will make the best use of it. Conveying this land to the turtles would be my way of leaving the world a better place.” She turned toward Ruth. “Does that make sense?”
Ruth nodded. Her cousin’s intentions were clear. “But legally, how can you will the property to the turtles?”
“Easy. I leave it to the Turtle Refuge.” Keya chuckled as they meandered along the shore. “And this is where you come in. When you’re writing the brochure, add a few paragraphs about planned giving and charitable bequests…” Keya stared as if in a trance.
“What’s wrong?”
Her hand shaking, Keya pointed to a shady patch of beach half hidden by sand dunes. A lifeless hand lay tangled in seaweed, its fingernails broken and bloodied.
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2XV2wO1
Social media links:
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Guest post: Nobody Else But You by Claire Marti
Today my guest is Claire Marti talking about her latest book: Nobody Else But You
Tell us a little about yourself.
Claire Marti started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
Finally, Claire followed her heart and now focuses on two of her true passions: writing romance and teaching yoga.
Her award winning debut novel, Second Chance in Laguna, was a Finalist for Best Contemporary Romance in the prestigious Stiletto Contest, won best unpublished contemporary romance in the Heart of the Molly and third place in the Maggie. Book two in the Finding Forever in Laguna series, At Last in Laguna, and Book three, Sunset in Laguna, are available everywhere. Sunset in Laguna was a Golden Quill finalist.
Claire's exciting new Pacific Vista Ranch series set on a horse-breeding ranch in exclusive Rancho Santa Fe, California, launches in September 2019.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her teaching at studios in sunny San Diego or enjoy fifty online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
Writing is definitely a rollercoaster! I love editing my stories once I’ve written the first draft. Reviewing the story and rearranging, tweaking, and intensifying the emotions is incredibly rewarding. I look at the editing process like putting together a puzzle––taking all the pieces and arranging them for maximum impact and order.
The least: writing the first draft. I have a really tough time getting the initial story down on paper because I’m always tempted to polish the words as I write. I’ve learned to let that go and write the first draft as if I’m telling the story to myself and worry about making it pretty prose later. It’s not easy!
Give us a peek into your latest work:
A smoking hot stuntman. A fiery horse breeder. And a 220-acre ranch too small for both of them.
She’s avoided Hollywood for years…
When an arrogant Hollywood stuntman struts into Samantha McNeill’s breeding barn, sparks fly. She doesn’t care how mouthwateringly gorgeous he is, not when he assumes Pacific Vista Ranch’s resident horse breeding manager must be a man. Not to mention his job threatens to pull her family back into the paparazzi filled world they escaped from over a decade ago.
Now it’s at her door––wearing faded jeans and a wicked grin.
Holt Ericsson can tell the beautiful redhead hates him on sight and the feeling is becoming mutual. But he will call in a favor and convince Sam’s legendary director father that Pacific Vista Ranch is the only suitable place left in California to film an epic Western. Holt’s invested all his savings in the movie and his entire career is riding on it. No way will he allow one irritating, sexy woman to stand in his way.
Sam intends to fight him at every turn…if only her heart didn’t race when they’re together. Holt does his best to steer clear of her…except all he wants to do is hold her close. The sizzling attraction between them is either going to burn up the sheets or burn down the ranch
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I’ve got two more books coming out in the Pacific Vista Ranch series in 2019. The Very Thought of You is the story of Amanda McNeill, Sam’s older sister and releases October 2019. For The Love of You is the story of Dylan McNeill, Sam’s twin sister and releases November 2019.
I’ve also written a standalone novel with a breast cancer heroine that spans the globe from Paris to San Francisco. I’m shopping the story to literary agents and hope to land with a large publisher for this story close to my heart. I’m a nine year breast cancer survivor, so I can share personal insights through my heroine’s story.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
If you like modern, fresh, sexy contemporary romances, check out my books. If you love horses, extended family dynamics, and unique settings, give my new Pacific Vista Ranch series a try. If you like sexy romances set at the beach, check out my Finding Forever in Laguna series.
Excerpt:
Swallowing a flutter of nerves in her throat, she rapped on the door. She was simply going for business. Ranch business. Bringing him dinner was simply being polite, like her father had raised her to be. So why was her heart hammering against her ribcage?
“It’s unlocked.” A muffled voice called. So much for manners. Holt apparently didn’t seem to bother with them.
She hesitated a moment. She smoothed back an errant strand into the ballet bun she hadn’t bothered to unravel. Although she’d changed out of her dance gear into her favorite old pair of jeans and a super-soft t-shirt, she hadn’t been in the mood to mess with her hair. Briefly, she regretted not being more like her twin sister, talented with makeup and hair. But, nope, Dylan had received the lion’s share of feminine genes.
Whatever. She opened the door, and then froze. He was rubbing his hair dry with a white towel slung over one shoulder. The pristine white material emphasized his bronzed skin. Tiny beads of moisture clung to chiseled pecs and the light sprinkling of golden hair on his chest was the only thing preventing him from looking like a marble statue. Barely. Shredded eight-pack abs and sharp V-cuts of muscle converged at the waistband of a pair of jeans as faded as her own. Her mouth suddenly parched, she swallowed. Hard.
“Sorry, I got stuck on the phone.” He grinned and tossed the towel onto a nearby chair.
She jerked her gaze up to his face, which had to be safer, right? Her pulse thrummed in her temple and heat descended to her belly. Damn. His face was definitely not safer than his gorgeous body.
“How’d you get that scar?” She blurted out the words, desperate to distract herself from his pure physical presence. He really needed to put on a shirt. Pronto.
“Scar? Which one?” He laughed, seemingly oblivious to her reaction, thank goodness.
“Forehead. The one across your forehead.” A flaw. Weren’t scars flaws? Why did it make him look just a little dangerous? And it did save him from utter perfection. Didn’t it?
Tell us a little about yourself.
Claire Marti started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
Finally, Claire followed her heart and now focuses on two of her true passions: writing romance and teaching yoga.
Her award winning debut novel, Second Chance in Laguna, was a Finalist for Best Contemporary Romance in the prestigious Stiletto Contest, won best unpublished contemporary romance in the Heart of the Molly and third place in the Maggie. Book two in the Finding Forever in Laguna series, At Last in Laguna, and Book three, Sunset in Laguna, are available everywhere. Sunset in Laguna was a Golden Quill finalist.
Claire's exciting new Pacific Vista Ranch series set on a horse-breeding ranch in exclusive Rancho Santa Fe, California, launches in September 2019.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her teaching at studios in sunny San Diego or enjoy fifty online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
Writing is definitely a rollercoaster! I love editing my stories once I’ve written the first draft. Reviewing the story and rearranging, tweaking, and intensifying the emotions is incredibly rewarding. I look at the editing process like putting together a puzzle––taking all the pieces and arranging them for maximum impact and order.
The least: writing the first draft. I have a really tough time getting the initial story down on paper because I’m always tempted to polish the words as I write. I’ve learned to let that go and write the first draft as if I’m telling the story to myself and worry about making it pretty prose later. It’s not easy!
Give us a peek into your latest work:
A smoking hot stuntman. A fiery horse breeder. And a 220-acre ranch too small for both of them.
She’s avoided Hollywood for years…
When an arrogant Hollywood stuntman struts into Samantha McNeill’s breeding barn, sparks fly. She doesn’t care how mouthwateringly gorgeous he is, not when he assumes Pacific Vista Ranch’s resident horse breeding manager must be a man. Not to mention his job threatens to pull her family back into the paparazzi filled world they escaped from over a decade ago.
Now it’s at her door––wearing faded jeans and a wicked grin.
Holt Ericsson can tell the beautiful redhead hates him on sight and the feeling is becoming mutual. But he will call in a favor and convince Sam’s legendary director father that Pacific Vista Ranch is the only suitable place left in California to film an epic Western. Holt’s invested all his savings in the movie and his entire career is riding on it. No way will he allow one irritating, sexy woman to stand in his way.
Sam intends to fight him at every turn…if only her heart didn’t race when they’re together. Holt does his best to steer clear of her…except all he wants to do is hold her close. The sizzling attraction between them is either going to burn up the sheets or burn down the ranch
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I’ve got two more books coming out in the Pacific Vista Ranch series in 2019. The Very Thought of You is the story of Amanda McNeill, Sam’s older sister and releases October 2019. For The Love of You is the story of Dylan McNeill, Sam’s twin sister and releases November 2019.
I’ve also written a standalone novel with a breast cancer heroine that spans the globe from Paris to San Francisco. I’m shopping the story to literary agents and hope to land with a large publisher for this story close to my heart. I’m a nine year breast cancer survivor, so I can share personal insights through my heroine’s story.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
If you like modern, fresh, sexy contemporary romances, check out my books. If you love horses, extended family dynamics, and unique settings, give my new Pacific Vista Ranch series a try. If you like sexy romances set at the beach, check out my Finding Forever in Laguna series.
Excerpt:
Swallowing a flutter of nerves in her throat, she rapped on the door. She was simply going for business. Ranch business. Bringing him dinner was simply being polite, like her father had raised her to be. So why was her heart hammering against her ribcage?
“It’s unlocked.” A muffled voice called. So much for manners. Holt apparently didn’t seem to bother with them.
She hesitated a moment. She smoothed back an errant strand into the ballet bun she hadn’t bothered to unravel. Although she’d changed out of her dance gear into her favorite old pair of jeans and a super-soft t-shirt, she hadn’t been in the mood to mess with her hair. Briefly, she regretted not being more like her twin sister, talented with makeup and hair. But, nope, Dylan had received the lion’s share of feminine genes.
Whatever. She opened the door, and then froze. He was rubbing his hair dry with a white towel slung over one shoulder. The pristine white material emphasized his bronzed skin. Tiny beads of moisture clung to chiseled pecs and the light sprinkling of golden hair on his chest was the only thing preventing him from looking like a marble statue. Barely. Shredded eight-pack abs and sharp V-cuts of muscle converged at the waistband of a pair of jeans as faded as her own. Her mouth suddenly parched, she swallowed. Hard.
“Sorry, I got stuck on the phone.” He grinned and tossed the towel onto a nearby chair.
She jerked her gaze up to his face, which had to be safer, right? Her pulse thrummed in her temple and heat descended to her belly. Damn. His face was definitely not safer than his gorgeous body.
“How’d you get that scar?” She blurted out the words, desperate to distract herself from his pure physical presence. He really needed to put on a shirt. Pronto.
“Scar? Which one?” He laughed, seemingly oblivious to her reaction, thank goodness.
“Forehead. The one across your forehead.” A flaw. Weren’t scars flaws? Why did it make him look just a little dangerous? And it did save him from utter perfection. Didn’t it?
Buy Links:
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2YT4b36
KOBO: https://bit.ly/2TpyGg8
Social media links:
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/clairepmarti
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/clairepmarti
Monday, August 26, 2019
Guest blog: From Denver to Forever by Cadence Vonn
Today my guest is Cadence Vonn talking about her book: From Denver to Forever
Tell us a little about yourself:
I’ve always been involved in the arts. I love creating things with my hands. I weave, do metal- smithing and occasionally stitch with tiny beads to create intricate bracelets. I took up writing when my mother became ill and I spent more time in the hospital with her then I did back in my studio. After two years of accumulating notes about ideas I sat down and started to write. I discovered I had a lot to learn and took a number of writing classes and attended workshops to hone my skills. And since I like to read books with a happy ending, I gravitated to writing romances.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I’ve always been involved in the arts. I love creating things with my hands. I weave, do metal- smithing and occasionally stitch with tiny beads to create intricate bracelets. I took up writing when my mother became ill and I spent more time in the hospital with her then I did back in my studio. After two years of accumulating notes about ideas I sat down and started to write. I discovered I had a lot to learn and took a number of writing classes and attended workshops to hone my skills. And since I like to read books with a happy ending, I gravitated to writing romances.
What do you like most and the least about writing:
I love the journey I take with my characters. They lead the way through twists and turns until they find their HEA. As an introvert, if I could live in my writing cave all the time I’d be happy. But being an author is also about promotion. So meeting new people is always a challenge.
Give us a peek into your latest published work:
FROM DENVER TO FOREVER
Two stranded strangers...No commitment. No rules.
After discovering her boyfriend is into kink—and not with her—Emily Jameson wants to know what all the hype is about. When a blizzard strands her in the Denver airport, she meets a man perfect for satisfying her curiosity—and more than a few desires—in a lovers-only relationship. But after their first toe-curling kiss, she wonders if the no-strings bargain they've made is a mistake.
Mark Blacke always goes after what he wants, and the moment he sees Emily, he wants her. Fulfilling her fantasies will be a pleasure. Why wouldn't it be when she wants hot as sin sex and no fetish is off-limits? Falling for her isn't part of the plan, but if he tells her how he feels, he fears he'll lose the woman of his dreams...
What’s next on the horizon for you:
Book Three of The Blacke Brothers series, Luke’s story, is on my editor’s desk. I’m in the process of working on the final brother, Jonathan. He’s the most laid back of the brothers but gets into the most trouble.
I’m also editing a novel I completed that will be my first self-published book. It’s a new exciting process.
Is there anything you want to tell readers:
I’d love to thank all the readers that have read my books. Their support is why I write.
Book excerpt:
Examining the outfit in the mirror, Emily decided to leave her
hair down instead of braiding it. A huge part of her hoped what Mark had bought
would add more kink to their lovers’ weekend.
A thrill ran up her spine when he tapped on the door. “Yes?”
“Should I put on these black pants?”
“If you’d like. They go with my outfit.”
“You’re in silk pajamas?” He sounded disappointed. “Sort of.” She
swallowed her giggles. She wouldn’t give herself away. “Put on the pants and
wait for me on the bed.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
She imagined the smirk on his face with that comment, but she
didn’t care. Hopefully when she walked out the door, he’d choke on it.
“Ready!” he yelled.
She took one last look in the mirror. Sultry makeup and her boobs
resting in the corset cups ready for his inspection made her look hooker-esque.
Yep. She joggled her hands underneath them and adjusted the lacy material. Now
to knock the wind out of his sails.
She opened the door and said, “Close your eyes.”
“Done.”
She moved to the middle of the floor. “Okay, open them.”
He raked his gaze over her body and choked. She stood perfectly
still in the spotlight created by the fading sunlight streaking across her from
the skylight above.
“Merciful mother fuck,” he growled. “Turn slow. I want a view of
your luscious ass as well.”
Emily obliged, pivoting and maintaining eye contact over her
shoulder as she turned. Her hand rested on her waist like the old pin-up models
in vintage posters. His hard swallow turned her blood to lava. Heat coursed
through her like fire.
“You look good in those pants.” She gave her bare shoulders a
flirty shake. He slipped off the bed, the pants riding on the yummy V where his
hips met his abs. All six-foot three-inches of male testosterone moved toward
her. She relaxed her hands behind her back so she wouldn’t fidget.
“Perfect pose. Demure, yet sexy as hell with your breasts just
waiting for me to taste them. One little flick of the lace, and I’ll be able to
torment your beautiful nipples. Would you like that?”
She sucked on her bottom lip and took a deep breath through her
nose. Her slight nod was all the invitation he needed.
Friday, August 23, 2019
Guest Post: Finding Euphoria by C. Becker
Today C. Becker is my guest talking about her new book: Finding Euphoria
Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up on a small farm in western Pennsylvania and earned a B.S. degree in Medical Technology. I had six brothers and two sisters, so there was never a dull moment at my house. I loved reading books and have fond memories of pulling a wagon half a mile to my church where the bookmobile stopped every month. I moved to Virginia after I married and focused full-time on my husband and raising four children, gravitating towards music as the kids entered elementary school. When my husband was transferred to West Virginia, I began writing children’s books—which I still write. After my first children’s book, I wanted to write a novel to see how the writing differed. I’ve found that there is quite a difference between the two levels of writing. In my free time, I freelance as a musician. I am also a music director and I substitute teach at public schools where I live. I love chocolate, baking, crafts, yardwork and home improvement projects.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up on a small farm in western Pennsylvania and earned a B.S. degree in Medical Technology. I had six brothers and two sisters, so there was never a dull moment at my house. I loved reading books and have fond memories of pulling a wagon half a mile to my church where the bookmobile stopped every month. I moved to Virginia after I married and focused full-time on my husband and raising four children, gravitating towards music as the kids entered elementary school. When my husband was transferred to West Virginia, I began writing children’s books—which I still write. After my first children’s book, I wanted to write a novel to see how the writing differed. I’ve found that there is quite a difference between the two levels of writing. In my free time, I freelance as a musician. I am also a music director and I substitute teach at public schools where I live. I love chocolate, baking, crafts, yardwork and home improvement projects.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I love discussing with my readers about my stories and current projects. I do a lot of school visits for my children’s books. I’m slowly maneuvering my way around the adult audiences with book clubs and library events. Also, I love twisting surprising storylines in a plot. The worse part of writing is taking time to keep up with emails and social media posts. It’s time consuming.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
Hailey Langley refuses to be a victim and has moved on from her traumatic past. But her marriage problems worsen when a deadly illicit drug threatens to draw her into the life she left behind.
Mark Langley has allowed his job to interfere with his marriage, but he never suspected the secrets in Hailey's past might hold the key to solving both of his current investigations.
Together, they must unravel the mystery of the drug called Euphoria and find a way to save not only their marriage, but countless lives, before it's too late.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I’m deep into my second book of the Euphoria series: Losing Euphoria/Trust No one. The story takes place six years after Finding Euphoria. After that book is finished, the third novel, Reclaiming Euphoria, will keep me busy.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
I love my fans and I appreciate all the support they offer! Writing is more satisfying when you touch readers’ lives and hearts.
Excerpt:
He turned the bottle around in his hand and set it on the end table. “Don’t put me in this position. You know what would happen. Grace is his mother. She’s the one who needs to stay with him.”
Regret tugged at her heart. “I wouldn’t take any time away from her.”
Parker groaned. “Just you being there would make her feel uncomfortable.”
“Why?”
“You know why.”
“But I’ve stayed away for seventeen years,” she whispered.
“That was the adoption arrangement.”
She bit her lip. “I can’t stay away any longer.”
“You agreed to those terms in the contract. You terminated all parental rights.” Parker stood and paced to the kitchen.
“But it’s not fair!” She put down her water and began wringing her hands.
Straightening his arms, he leaned against the bar. “Hailey, please don’t start. I know how you feel…”
“You couldn’t possibly know how I feel. I need to see him.” She fought to control the bitterness in her voice.
“No.”
She rose, knocking over the water bottle. “He’s my son!”
“Not anymore, he isn’t.”
The rebuke stung. “He’ll always be my son!”
“When you gave him up, you promised to keep your distance.”
“I have.”
“Forever.”
The reminder lanced her heart. “You’re being unfair. He’s dying.”
He slammed his fist on the bar. “Don’t say that. He can’t die.” Parker pushed himself up and stomped near the window, raising his hands to rest on top of his head as he faced the curtain.
A muscle twitched in her hand. Her knees buckled. She sat on the edge of the couch, wringing her hands. “I was young. I couldn’t give Justin the life he deserved. I’m not asking to take him back. I only want to see him.”
Rubbing his jaw, he walked back to the couch and sat. The hard lines on his face softened. “The adoption papers were clear. No contact.” He placed his hands on top of hers and stilled them. “If the decision was mine, I would allow it, but Grace would lose it if she found out you’re Justin’s biological mother.”
Her hands squeezed into tight fists. The urge was unbearable. “I wouldn’t tell her.”
Parker ran a hand through his hair. “Argh! Don’t you understand? She’d take one look at your face and know the truth. Don’t forget, you’re the one who wanted us to protect him.”
She stood. “Well, you did a hell of a fine job, didn’t you? You divorced Grace and deserted him. Parenting takes sacrifice, Parker. You were too busy changing careers, and now he’s messed up with drugs. How did that protect him?”
Standing, he reached for her.
“No. You stay away from me.” She extended her hands and backed up a step. “Justin’s dying! Dying, Parker! And I don’t know him…You won’t let me see my own son.”
He wrapped his arms around her.
She pushed him, pummeling her fists against his chest with all her strength.
He silently took his beating.
Social media links:
Website address:
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Guest Post: Felice by D.V. Stone
My guest today is D.V. Stone talking about her book: Felice
Tell us a little about yourself.
Hi, my name is D. V. Stone. I’m am an independent author with two books available and one contracted with Wild Rose Press to be released probably later this year. All different genres call to me as a reader, and that’s reflected in my writing. Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar is a fantasy/romance and Agent Carter and the Mystery at Branch Lake is mid-grade paranormal. Rock House Grill is a contemporary romance.
I work full-time in a medical office and looking forward to retirement in about a year and a half. I’m a lover of memes, emojis, and goofy pictures. What else do I love? My husband, definitely. My son and lovely daughter-in-law who have given me the best grands a woman could ask for. My mom, sister, and brothers. My dog, Hali. I tolerate the cat (just kidding, get a grip).
I enjoy camping, though some call it glamping. This body is too old to sleep on the ground and not have a bathroom. Fires in my chiminea or at the campgrounds we visit are high on my list. Sitting on the deck, watching birds and butterflies. Walking the above-mentioned dog. Music in its many forms. Classic Rock, Southern Rock, and Blues are interchangeable for my top spot. Oh, and Big band is way up there too. The Great American Songbook.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I love creating characters and then learning about them while drafting the story. I love how the story often takes on its own life leading me where it wants to go. For instance, the first book I wrote, still a work in progress, went from the main characters being three sisters down to one, Haana, who embodied the three.
Editing used to be a chore. However, I’ve come to embrace it as a means of getting a great book. But on about the fifth round, it gets tedious.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
One foolish thought. One brutal act. Instead of a peaceful alliance–war.
From the shifter nation of Dar, Felice carries a peace accord. A treaty will bind her sister to Abelard, Prince of Argatha–a human–and forge an alliance between Dar and Argatha. An attack by rogue soldiers sets off a chain of events, binding Felice to Abelard her sister’s betrothed. While her new Shield-Mate chips away at the walls around her heart, Felice struggles to maintain control over her life–something she and her inner Panther have fought hard to attain. Responsibility for the dying Emissary lies heavy on Abelard’s shoulders. Abelard is a good soldier, but not, he realizes a good man. Felice is the catalyst that brings him purpose. War comes, but not the one expected. An invasion from an old enemy, thrusts shifters and humans together–they must unite, or each may fall. Amid treachery and chaos, love blooms and Abelard and Felice must come to terms with the past if their love is to survive.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I mentioned earlier Wild Rose Press contracted my contemporary romance, Rock House Grill. While Rock House is going through the process, I’m working on Jazz House, the second book in the Impact series. I also have other works in various stages of completion.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
Though my work is considered Sweet Romance. I do deal with some difficult situations in most of my writing. Circumstances have damaged Felice, but what I try to convey is we all need help sometimes and need to make the choice to accept it. There is always hope.
Excerpt:
Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar
Thick fog muffled the horses' hoof beats on the final leg of their journey toward Sorota. The normal sound of city life was absent. An unnerving silence blanketed them as Felice’s bay mare followed behind Nolan’s dapple grey. There was no noise coming from the city. The hair on Felice’s neck stood up. “Lord Nolan, do you feel something amiss?”
He looked over his shoulder, a bland, patient expression on his face and said, “Princess Felice, we do not act on feelings. We act on learning and knowledge. Feelings should never enter into diplomacy.”
When they arrived in Sorota, humans escorted them down the narrow, cobbled street, toward the Overseer’s dwelling. Through the thick fog, gas lamps cast shuttered houses and shops along the street in an eerie yellow glow. Other than the soldiers who escorted them, there were no other signs of the population.
Outwardly she assumed a placid demeanor, but she couldn’t tamp down her instincts. The Panther in her hadn’t emerged yet, but Felice’s nerves clawed at her insides. Glancing from side to side, she kept a close eye on the men of Sorota. A bead of sweat rolled down the nearest, though the day was cool and damp. She could smell the anxiety in some of them.
Felice fidgeted, on edge. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was about to go wrong. Her mare pranced sideways and snorted. Whirls of vapor rose from the horse’s nose into the chilled air.
Nolan glared over his shoulder at her. “Control your emotions, Felice. They are affecting your horse.”
She sat straight in her saddle, focusing her eyes ahead and pushed down the worry. Felice tried to soothe the mare by stroking her neck. The horse’s ear twitched when she leaned forward and whispered, “Easy, Arundel, I feel it too. We will keep our eyes open.”
Nolan, who acted under the security of the king’s authority, never questioned the large contingent of guards when they entered the cavernous hall of Overseer Gedeon. The arrogance of Nolan’s position was their downfall. Not until they were behind the large, barred doors, did his brow furrow in concern. Still, he said nothing. But Felice loosened the strap on her knife and reached behind under her cloak to slacken her sword leather.
After being more herded, rather than led, Felice and Nolan were pushed through a door into the Sorotan’s meeting room.
“That is not Gedeon, but his brother Dunbar,” Nolan whispered into her ear. “Be careful, he is a very dangerous man.”
“Seize them!” Dunbar ordered, and before the Darrians could respond, Nolan was struck down. Several knives pierced his body. Regret was replaced with the glaze of death, and he muttered, “I am sorry, my lady.”
The men in the room turned to her. Their cruel eyes revealed no regard for her tender age when they moved toward her with raised weapons. Shortly after her torment began, Felice’s Panter erupted, and her life changed forever.
Tell us a little about yourself.
Hi, my name is D. V. Stone. I’m am an independent author with two books available and one contracted with Wild Rose Press to be released probably later this year. All different genres call to me as a reader, and that’s reflected in my writing. Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar is a fantasy/romance and Agent Carter and the Mystery at Branch Lake is mid-grade paranormal. Rock House Grill is a contemporary romance.
I work full-time in a medical office and looking forward to retirement in about a year and a half. I’m a lover of memes, emojis, and goofy pictures. What else do I love? My husband, definitely. My son and lovely daughter-in-law who have given me the best grands a woman could ask for. My mom, sister, and brothers. My dog, Hali. I tolerate the cat (just kidding, get a grip).
I enjoy camping, though some call it glamping. This body is too old to sleep on the ground and not have a bathroom. Fires in my chiminea or at the campgrounds we visit are high on my list. Sitting on the deck, watching birds and butterflies. Walking the above-mentioned dog. Music in its many forms. Classic Rock, Southern Rock, and Blues are interchangeable for my top spot. Oh, and Big band is way up there too. The Great American Songbook.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I love creating characters and then learning about them while drafting the story. I love how the story often takes on its own life leading me where it wants to go. For instance, the first book I wrote, still a work in progress, went from the main characters being three sisters down to one, Haana, who embodied the three.
Editing used to be a chore. However, I’ve come to embrace it as a means of getting a great book. But on about the fifth round, it gets tedious.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
One foolish thought. One brutal act. Instead of a peaceful alliance–war.
From the shifter nation of Dar, Felice carries a peace accord. A treaty will bind her sister to Abelard, Prince of Argatha–a human–and forge an alliance between Dar and Argatha. An attack by rogue soldiers sets off a chain of events, binding Felice to Abelard her sister’s betrothed. While her new Shield-Mate chips away at the walls around her heart, Felice struggles to maintain control over her life–something she and her inner Panther have fought hard to attain. Responsibility for the dying Emissary lies heavy on Abelard’s shoulders. Abelard is a good soldier, but not, he realizes a good man. Felice is the catalyst that brings him purpose. War comes, but not the one expected. An invasion from an old enemy, thrusts shifters and humans together–they must unite, or each may fall. Amid treachery and chaos, love blooms and Abelard and Felice must come to terms with the past if their love is to survive.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I mentioned earlier Wild Rose Press contracted my contemporary romance, Rock House Grill. While Rock House is going through the process, I’m working on Jazz House, the second book in the Impact series. I also have other works in various stages of completion.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
Though my work is considered Sweet Romance. I do deal with some difficult situations in most of my writing. Circumstances have damaged Felice, but what I try to convey is we all need help sometimes and need to make the choice to accept it. There is always hope.
Excerpt:
Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar
Thick fog muffled the horses' hoof beats on the final leg of their journey toward Sorota. The normal sound of city life was absent. An unnerving silence blanketed them as Felice’s bay mare followed behind Nolan’s dapple grey. There was no noise coming from the city. The hair on Felice’s neck stood up. “Lord Nolan, do you feel something amiss?”
He looked over his shoulder, a bland, patient expression on his face and said, “Princess Felice, we do not act on feelings. We act on learning and knowledge. Feelings should never enter into diplomacy.”
When they arrived in Sorota, humans escorted them down the narrow, cobbled street, toward the Overseer’s dwelling. Through the thick fog, gas lamps cast shuttered houses and shops along the street in an eerie yellow glow. Other than the soldiers who escorted them, there were no other signs of the population.
Outwardly she assumed a placid demeanor, but she couldn’t tamp down her instincts. The Panther in her hadn’t emerged yet, but Felice’s nerves clawed at her insides. Glancing from side to side, she kept a close eye on the men of Sorota. A bead of sweat rolled down the nearest, though the day was cool and damp. She could smell the anxiety in some of them.
Felice fidgeted, on edge. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was about to go wrong. Her mare pranced sideways and snorted. Whirls of vapor rose from the horse’s nose into the chilled air.
Nolan glared over his shoulder at her. “Control your emotions, Felice. They are affecting your horse.”
She sat straight in her saddle, focusing her eyes ahead and pushed down the worry. Felice tried to soothe the mare by stroking her neck. The horse’s ear twitched when she leaned forward and whispered, “Easy, Arundel, I feel it too. We will keep our eyes open.”
Nolan, who acted under the security of the king’s authority, never questioned the large contingent of guards when they entered the cavernous hall of Overseer Gedeon. The arrogance of Nolan’s position was their downfall. Not until they were behind the large, barred doors, did his brow furrow in concern. Still, he said nothing. But Felice loosened the strap on her knife and reached behind under her cloak to slacken her sword leather.
After being more herded, rather than led, Felice and Nolan were pushed through a door into the Sorotan’s meeting room.
“That is not Gedeon, but his brother Dunbar,” Nolan whispered into her ear. “Be careful, he is a very dangerous man.”
“Seize them!” Dunbar ordered, and before the Darrians could respond, Nolan was struck down. Several knives pierced his body. Regret was replaced with the glaze of death, and he muttered, “I am sorry, my lady.”
The men in the room turned to her. Their cruel eyes revealed no regard for her tender age when they moved toward her with raised weapons. Shortly after her torment began, Felice’s Panter erupted, and her life changed forever.
Social media links:
Monday, August 19, 2019
Guest Post: His Magic Touch by Debby Grahl
Today my guest is Debby Grahl talking to us about her latest book: His Magic Touch
Tell us about yourself:
Along with my husband, David, I live on beautiful Hilton Head Island in SC. Besides writing, I like to listen to classic murder mysteries, bike ride, walk on the beach, visit England and have a glass of wine at sun set.
I was born with a disease of the retina called Retinitis Pigmentosa which causes gradual vision loss. I lost the ability to read in my early twenties, but even when I had sight, seeing the printed word was always difficult for me. Reading a book would take me twice as long as a person with normal sight. I became frustrated with this and began to make up my own stories. It wasn’t until the invention of computers and wonderful screen reading software that I was able to put my stories into words.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
The one thing that thrills me the most is when someone tells me how much they enjoyed my book. If the words I write can bring pleasure, even if it’s for a short time, I can’t express how fulfilling that is to me as a writer.
Marketing is the one thing about writing I like the least. The number of hours I have to spend on this when I’d rather be writing makes me crazy.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
His Magic Touch
The night before Jared Dupre's wedding, a specter warns him the demonic witch, Adam Montief, has kidnapped his brother in a centuries-old vendetta unknown to Jared. A powerful witch himself, Jared tracks Adam from New Orleans to a remote island off the coast of Connecticut where he's given no choice. He must rescue his brother and break his engagement to Kendra O'Connell, or they both die. After complying, Jared engages in a sword fight and believes he has vanquished his foe, but when he returns to New Orleans, he finds evil still threatens all he loves. Kendra, not knowing why Jared broke their engagement, devastated, finds solace in another's arms. With help from an ancestor's spirit, can Jared defeat the dark magic descending over the Big Easy while winning back the woman he loves?
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I’m beginning a contemporary series set in the South. The first is titled Mountain Blaze, the second Island Heat, and the third Low Country Boil.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
I’d like to thank all those who have taken the time to read my books. I so appreciate your accompanying me on my writing journey. And I’d like to welcome those who are new to my writing and hope you’ll take a peek at one of my books.
Excerpt:
In the stifling heat, Angelique Montief flicked her wrist and set the bamboo ceiling fan spinning. Kneeling on a woven mat with sweat coating her body, she lifted a small wooden brass-bound casket from the bottom of a large trunk, inserted a gold key, and opened the lid. Inside two objects lay wrapped in thick cloth. She carefully unwrapped the smaller bundle to reveal a pentagonal mirror, a gift handed down to her by her grandmother, its ancient oak frame carved with tiny pentacles.
She glanced over her shoulder at her locked bedroom door, then stared into the mirror and whispered, “Show him to me.” When the glass remained blank, fear clutched at her chest. Again, she said the words, and the image of a plantation house engulfed in flames appeared. “No, please, he can’t be dead. ”Tears blurred her vision. The fiery image changed to reveal a human form lying beneath flowering bougainvillea. “Show me his face.”
She saw his indigo blue eyes blink open.
“I’m coming, my love.”
She re-wrapped the mirror and placed it into the smaller casket among cloth bags of herbs and potion-filled vials. Re-locking the lid, she hung the key on a chain around her neck, dropped a jeweled dagger into her pocket, and tucked the casket under her arm.
Augustus had locked her in, placing what he thought would be an impenetrable shield across both doors. Her husband’s biggest mistake was underestimating her.
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/His-Magic-Touch-Debby-Grahl-ebook/dp/B07JCK8H99
Barnes and Noble / Nook
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-magic-touch-debby-grahl/1129775522
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/his-magic-touch-5
Social media links:
author website: www.debbygrahl.com
author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbygrahlauthor?ref=br_rs
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DebbyGrahl
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6862089.Debby_Grahl
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/search/authors?search=debby%20grahl
Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Debby-Grahl/e/B00B34HM26
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Debby Grahl lives on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with her husband, David. Besides writing, she enjoys biking, walking on the beach and a glass of wine at sunset. Her favorite places to visit are New Orleans, New York City, Captiva Island in Florida, the Cotswolds of England, and her home state of Michigan. She is a history buff who also enjoys reading murder mysteries, time travel, and, of course, romance. Visually impaired since childhood by Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), she uses screen-reading software to research and write her books.
Her first published book, The Silver Crescent, won the Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers’ Choice award. Her second book, Rue Toulouse, a contemporary romance set in New Orleans, was a finalist in the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award and was selected as a May, 2016, ‘local read’ by Hilton Head Monthly.
Decorated to Death is a holiday mystery cozy. She also has stories in three anthologies, The Haunted West, Never Fear/Christmas Terrors; and Ebb and Flow from the local Island Writers’ Network.
Debby was featured in the January, 2016, Hilton Head Monthly article ‘Intriguing People of the Lowcountry’. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Florida Romance Writers, and First Coast Romance Writers.
Her latest book, His Magic Touch, was released December 5, 2018, by Wild Rose Press.
Tell us about yourself:
Along with my husband, David, I live on beautiful Hilton Head Island in SC. Besides writing, I like to listen to classic murder mysteries, bike ride, walk on the beach, visit England and have a glass of wine at sun set.
I was born with a disease of the retina called Retinitis Pigmentosa which causes gradual vision loss. I lost the ability to read in my early twenties, but even when I had sight, seeing the printed word was always difficult for me. Reading a book would take me twice as long as a person with normal sight. I became frustrated with this and began to make up my own stories. It wasn’t until the invention of computers and wonderful screen reading software that I was able to put my stories into words.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
The one thing that thrills me the most is when someone tells me how much they enjoyed my book. If the words I write can bring pleasure, even if it’s for a short time, I can’t express how fulfilling that is to me as a writer.
Marketing is the one thing about writing I like the least. The number of hours I have to spend on this when I’d rather be writing makes me crazy.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
His Magic Touch
The night before Jared Dupre's wedding, a specter warns him the demonic witch, Adam Montief, has kidnapped his brother in a centuries-old vendetta unknown to Jared. A powerful witch himself, Jared tracks Adam from New Orleans to a remote island off the coast of Connecticut where he's given no choice. He must rescue his brother and break his engagement to Kendra O'Connell, or they both die. After complying, Jared engages in a sword fight and believes he has vanquished his foe, but when he returns to New Orleans, he finds evil still threatens all he loves. Kendra, not knowing why Jared broke their engagement, devastated, finds solace in another's arms. With help from an ancestor's spirit, can Jared defeat the dark magic descending over the Big Easy while winning back the woman he loves?
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I’m beginning a contemporary series set in the South. The first is titled Mountain Blaze, the second Island Heat, and the third Low Country Boil.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
I’d like to thank all those who have taken the time to read my books. I so appreciate your accompanying me on my writing journey. And I’d like to welcome those who are new to my writing and hope you’ll take a peek at one of my books.
Excerpt:
In the stifling heat, Angelique Montief flicked her wrist and set the bamboo ceiling fan spinning. Kneeling on a woven mat with sweat coating her body, she lifted a small wooden brass-bound casket from the bottom of a large trunk, inserted a gold key, and opened the lid. Inside two objects lay wrapped in thick cloth. She carefully unwrapped the smaller bundle to reveal a pentagonal mirror, a gift handed down to her by her grandmother, its ancient oak frame carved with tiny pentacles.
She glanced over her shoulder at her locked bedroom door, then stared into the mirror and whispered, “Show him to me.” When the glass remained blank, fear clutched at her chest. Again, she said the words, and the image of a plantation house engulfed in flames appeared. “No, please, he can’t be dead. ”Tears blurred her vision. The fiery image changed to reveal a human form lying beneath flowering bougainvillea. “Show me his face.”
She saw his indigo blue eyes blink open.
“I’m coming, my love.”
She re-wrapped the mirror and placed it into the smaller casket among cloth bags of herbs and potion-filled vials. Re-locking the lid, she hung the key on a chain around her neck, dropped a jeweled dagger into her pocket, and tucked the casket under her arm.
Augustus had locked her in, placing what he thought would be an impenetrable shield across both doors. Her husband’s biggest mistake was underestimating her.
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/His-Magic-Touch-Debby-Grahl-ebook/dp/B07JCK8H99
Barnes and Noble / Nook
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-magic-touch-debby-grahl/1129775522
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/his-magic-touch-5
Social media links:
author website: www.debbygrahl.com
author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbygrahlauthor?ref=br_rs
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DebbyGrahl
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6862089.Debby_Grahl
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/search/authors?search=debby%20grahl
Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Debby-Grahl/e/B00B34HM26
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Debby Grahl lives on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with her husband, David. Besides writing, she enjoys biking, walking on the beach and a glass of wine at sunset. Her favorite places to visit are New Orleans, New York City, Captiva Island in Florida, the Cotswolds of England, and her home state of Michigan. She is a history buff who also enjoys reading murder mysteries, time travel, and, of course, romance. Visually impaired since childhood by Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), she uses screen-reading software to research and write her books.
Her first published book, The Silver Crescent, won the Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers’ Choice award. Her second book, Rue Toulouse, a contemporary romance set in New Orleans, was a finalist in the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award and was selected as a May, 2016, ‘local read’ by Hilton Head Monthly.
Decorated to Death is a holiday mystery cozy. She also has stories in three anthologies, The Haunted West, Never Fear/Christmas Terrors; and Ebb and Flow from the local Island Writers’ Network.
Debby was featured in the January, 2016, Hilton Head Monthly article ‘Intriguing People of the Lowcountry’. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Florida Romance Writers, and First Coast Romance Writers.
Her latest book, His Magic Touch, was released December 5, 2018, by Wild Rose Press.
Friday, August 16, 2019
Guest post: Scent of Betrayal by Denise Carbo
Today let's welcome Denise Carbo talking about her book Scent of Betrayal
Tell us a little about yourself.
My husband and three sons are my life. I love to travel when I can, bake, garden, and read when I’m not writing.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My husband and three sons are my life. I love to travel when I can, bake, garden, and read when I’m not writing.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I love creating characters, plot, and setting and then seeing where they will take me.
I don’t love the editing process because after a while I get sick of reading my own words, but I do like that editing means the story is done and the end is near.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
Wolf shifter, Davis Campbell is on a mission. His job is to babysit a woman from a rival clan. He believes all he has to do is get her back to Scotland. What he doesn't figure on is her possibly being his mate.
Bethany Leitner, an owl shifter, has been betrayed, attacked, framed, and left for dead. Trust in herself and others is hard to find. So when her self-appointed guardian begins to bark orders, she is ready to show her talons.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
My WIP (work-in-progress) is Legacy of Destruction, the second in my witch series and the sequel to Legacy of Magic.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
Scent of Betrayal is the second book in the Shifters of Rishard series and the sequel to Bloodlines. For more information on my books and to be the first to see cover reveals and be notified of sales sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/dt5N7M
Excerpt:
Davis snorted. “Yeah, well, the little peacemaker tried to get rid of me when I didn’t kowtow to Aaron and the adviser. I don’t think she fully realizes the precarious position she and her clan are in right now.”
“On the contrary, I am quite aware, which is why I don’t see the need to make the matter worse by
antagonizing everyone around me.”
Davis slowly swiveled his head to meet Bethany’s glare.
She stood in the open doorway to the bathroom with her arms wrapped tightly around her waist. Her dark gaze pinned on him. She’d changed into a blue dress. It accentuated her tiny waist, skimming just below her knees, allowing him an appreciative view of her trim legs. Her pursed lips only accentuated the pink little bow of her mouth. He couldn’t help but imagine what it might be like to grab a taste.
An amused chuckle sounded in his ear. “She doesn’t sound very happy with you, Davis. Are you
sure you want to stay?”
“Yeah, I’m sure.”
Buy Links:
Social Media:
Website: http://www.DeniseCarbo.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/denisecarbo
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/denisecarbo
Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/denisecarbo
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Guest post: Heart Healer by Leslie Bowes
Today my guest is Leslie Bowes talking about her book: Heart Healer
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in southern Maryland. When I was thirteen, I moved to Summerville, South Carolina where I fell in love with the Lowcountry culture and history. South Carolina was my inspiration for my book Heart Healer. Recently I moved to central Virginia, and now I am enjoying the beauty and history of this area. The rolling hills and pastoral views will surely inspire ideas for future stories
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in southern Maryland. When I was thirteen, I moved to Summerville, South Carolina where I fell in love with the Lowcountry culture and history. South Carolina was my inspiration for my book Heart Healer. Recently I moved to central Virginia, and now I am enjoying the beauty and history of this area. The rolling hills and pastoral views will surely inspire ideas for future stories
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I Love that I can take readers somewhere they have never gone before. I hate that sometimes I get writers block and it sometimes takes me forever to get back on track.
Blurb:
Catherine Andrews is an English woman living in the 1800's. Her father sells her to Blake Von-Clyer to be his wife to pay off debts owed to Mr. Von-Clyer. Catherine soon finds out Blake is a cruel and horrible man.
On their wedding night, to escape his cruelty, she throws herself into the river. Death is better than marriage to a beast.
Christopher King is living in 2014 doing his best to raise his young son Ryan after his wife left him. One night, Christopher finds a woman in the river unconscious and barely breathing. She is also wearing old fashioned clothes. Christopher does everything in his power to help the young women. When Catherine regains consciousness, she finds herself in a strange and unbelievable situation. Terrified, she does her best to keep her guard up against Christopher. But as she gets to know him, she can't help but fall for the man who saved her life. When Catherine's dangerous past comes back to haunt her, it has Catherine and Christopher fighting for each other and their love.
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
I am working on book 2 in the Heart Healer sires called The Choices for Love.
Excerpt:
“That’s true, but I don’t need a servant. I need a wife.”
Catherine dropped the spoon as her whole body shook. What was her father planning to do? Hard work? A wife? What was going on? She was not her father’s slave to trade as he wished. She was his daughter. Too nervous to turn around, Catherine prayed that she heard wrong.
“What did you say?” her father asked, shocked.
“You heard me.” Mr. Von-Clyer laughed. “You had no problem selling her to me as a servant Mr. Andrews, but now that I want her for my wife your conscience haunts you. What’s the difference? Either way your debt to me is paid.”
“Catherine, get over here now!” her father yelled drunkenly. The longer she stared at the vein in her father’s neck; she realized that she was making him angrier than Catherine had ever seen before. She slowly walked over to the table and stood in front of her father. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she watched him drink his last bit of wine. “You will be Mr. Von-Clyer’s wife to pay off my debt.”
Is there anything you want to tell
readers?
Never give on your dreams if you work
at it. It will come true.
Buy Link:
Social Media:
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
Guest Post: Cairo Connection by Carol Henry
My guest today is Carol Henry talking about her book Cairo Connection
Tell us a little about yourself.
Carol Henry, is a #1 best-selling author who writes award-winning, 5-STAR reviewed Romantic Suspense Adventures (Indiana Jones meets Romancing the Stone), as well as American historical, holiday, and contemporary novels. A world traveler, Carol has written for several major cruise lines’ deluxe in-cabin books, and Porthole Cruise Magazine, but also takes great pleasure in weaving her own adventures with her ‘characters’ in her novels. Her ‘Connection’ series includes: Amazon Connection, Shanghai Connection, Rio Connection, and her latest Cairo Connection. Although her more contemporary novels, such as her Lobster Cove series (Juelle’s Legacy, Breakfast with Santa, and Nora’s Redemption), has a few snippets from her travels, as well.
Carol teaches creative writing workshops, has been a speaker at various venues, is a member of Romance Writers of America®, and is a member of Published Authors Network. She is also a member and past president of RWA’s chapter STAR—Southern Tier Authors of Romance (NY), a member of Sisters in Crime, and is the president of her local Write Now Writers’ Group. Visit Carol’s website at www.carolhenry.org
What do like the most and the least about writing?
Getting the what I like ‘least about writing’ over with, it’s coming up with a blurb, writing the synopsis, and coming up with names to fit the characters.
As for what I like about writing? I’m a huge plotter, and although I like to work at figuring out my characters’ story line, I really enjoy the editing, where I can go in and work with something that is already done, and the meat of the matter is laid out for me. Then, I can change what my characters say to each other, what they’re really thinking, feeling, and how they should act accordingly, depending on the situation. I love searching for what I call ‘word choices’. As I’m writing, or re-reading (several times) I highlight words that need to be clearer, need to say what I really meant to say (or, my characters meant to say), and look for words that help with the pacing. I’m old school, so I prefer to print out my work, and with pencil in hand, sit down to enjoy the rewriting process.
Give us a peek into your latest published work?
Megan Holloway is startled when Professor Jordan Kaine informs her she must travel with him to Cairo to collaborate on a proposed contract for the Egyptian Agricultural Ministry. Sole provider for her ill mother, Megan can’t leave her side. But Megan’s probationary period at Wild and Wonderful Corp is up in two weeks. She can't afford to refuse the attractive Professor’s request and risk her job. Jordan Kaine, up for tenure, MUST win the Cairo contract. He doesn’t want his growing affections for Megan to jeopardize his career. But when a student who filed bogus sexual harassment charges against him shows up at the Cairo conference vying for the contract and him, chances of obtaining tenure becomes tenuous. With unexplained mishaps, smuggling rumors, and a dead body linked to his father’s dig in Luxor, will Jordan and Megan make their own Cairo connection?
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
Just submitted my novella to The Wild Rose Press for their Deerbourne Inn Series entitled Ciara’s Homecoming Christmas. But I have a couple more Connection Novels waiting to be written. Right now the hard part is trying to figure out which country I want to use for my setting, although my final Connection book will be in France.
Tell us a little about yourself.
Carol Henry, is a #1 best-selling author who writes award-winning, 5-STAR reviewed Romantic Suspense Adventures (Indiana Jones meets Romancing the Stone), as well as American historical, holiday, and contemporary novels. A world traveler, Carol has written for several major cruise lines’ deluxe in-cabin books, and Porthole Cruise Magazine, but also takes great pleasure in weaving her own adventures with her ‘characters’ in her novels. Her ‘Connection’ series includes: Amazon Connection, Shanghai Connection, Rio Connection, and her latest Cairo Connection. Although her more contemporary novels, such as her Lobster Cove series (Juelle’s Legacy, Breakfast with Santa, and Nora’s Redemption), has a few snippets from her travels, as well.
Carol teaches creative writing workshops, has been a speaker at various venues, is a member of Romance Writers of America®, and is a member of Published Authors Network. She is also a member and past president of RWA’s chapter STAR—Southern Tier Authors of Romance (NY), a member of Sisters in Crime, and is the president of her local Write Now Writers’ Group. Visit Carol’s website at www.carolhenry.org
What do like the most and the least about writing?
Getting the what I like ‘least about writing’ over with, it’s coming up with a blurb, writing the synopsis, and coming up with names to fit the characters.
As for what I like about writing? I’m a huge plotter, and although I like to work at figuring out my characters’ story line, I really enjoy the editing, where I can go in and work with something that is already done, and the meat of the matter is laid out for me. Then, I can change what my characters say to each other, what they’re really thinking, feeling, and how they should act accordingly, depending on the situation. I love searching for what I call ‘word choices’. As I’m writing, or re-reading (several times) I highlight words that need to be clearer, need to say what I really meant to say (or, my characters meant to say), and look for words that help with the pacing. I’m old school, so I prefer to print out my work, and with pencil in hand, sit down to enjoy the rewriting process.
Megan Holloway is startled when Professor Jordan Kaine informs her she must travel with him to Cairo to collaborate on a proposed contract for the Egyptian Agricultural Ministry. Sole provider for her ill mother, Megan can’t leave her side. But Megan’s probationary period at Wild and Wonderful Corp is up in two weeks. She can't afford to refuse the attractive Professor’s request and risk her job. Jordan Kaine, up for tenure, MUST win the Cairo contract. He doesn’t want his growing affections for Megan to jeopardize his career. But when a student who filed bogus sexual harassment charges against him shows up at the Cairo conference vying for the contract and him, chances of obtaining tenure becomes tenuous. With unexplained mishaps, smuggling rumors, and a dead body linked to his father’s dig in Luxor, will Jordan and Megan make their own Cairo connection?
What’s next on the writing horizon for you?
Just submitted my novella to The Wild Rose Press for their Deerbourne Inn Series entitled Ciara’s Homecoming Christmas. But I have a couple more Connection Novels waiting to be written. Right now the hard part is trying to figure out which country I want to use for my setting, although my final Connection book will be in France.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
When writing my Connection novels, I always try to find something that is pertinent and currently happening in the country that I’ve visited, and incorporate it, and my experiences, into my characters’ adventures. I’m not a brave person (although many think I am), I always want to incorporate a scene that includes, at least for me, a hair-raising adventure. For example, I always wanted to take a hot air balloon ride but didn’t have the nerve. I’m not a fan of flying, even though planes get me where I want to go. So when I had the opportunity, and my husband twisted my arm, while we were in Egypt, I couldn’t resist ballooning over the Nile—in awe. When I learned of the Ballooning accident that took place the year after we were there, I couldn’t resist including it in my Cairo Connection novel, although we did land safe and sound on the ground, unlike my character’s experience (see excerpt below).
I’ve hunted alligators in the back of beyond at midnight in Amazon Connection, wandered the mysterious hutongs in Shanghai Connection, and made my way up to Christ the Redeemer in Rio Connection. Again, thankfully, all my adventures were without incident, unlike my characters’.
Excerpt:
Without warning, the drone flew directly into the ropes connecting the hot air balloon and the basket filled with passengers. The jarring impact sent everyone tumbling sideways in shock. Megan fell against Jordan. Jordan’s arms circled her protectively, catching her before she fell over the edge.
“What the hell!” Jordan exclaimed. The mid-sized drone’s spinnerets were cutting through the ropes at a frenzied pace. The basket rocked, and then tilted again. The man at the controls adjusted the flames shooting upward into the balloon—the basket took an immediate dive. The ropes caught fire, and were immediately thrown over the side of the basket as they descended. Two of the passengers clung precariously to the edge while others screamed, and hung on tight.
“Hang on,” Jordan ordered. “Sit on my lap and tuck your head against my chest. Keep your arms and legs inside.”
Megan didn’t question him; if there was half a chance she’d get out of this alive, it would be thanks to Jordan’s level-headedness.
The basket swayed, bobbed, and continued its rapid descent. Passengers were tossed about, screaming for their lives, while the couple clinging to the edge of the basket was flung overboard. The drone sounded like a buzz saw as it continued to eat away at the burning ropes.
Megan closed her eyes and sent up a silent prayer for the couple’s safety. She held her breath and clung to Jordan. Holy Mary, Mother of God. They were about to plummet to their deaths.
Monday, August 5, 2019
Guest post: The Rebound Effect by Linda Griffin
My guest today is Linda Griffin talking about her book: The Rebound Effect
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a native of San Diego and have a BA in English from San Diego State University and an MLS from UCLA. I retired as fiction librarian for the San Diego Public Library to spend more time on my writing. My stories have been published in numerous literary journals, including The Binnacle , Eclectica, Orbis, and The Nassau Review, and The Rebound Effect is my second romance from The Wild Rose Press.
What do like the most and the least about writing?
I love it when the glimmers are flowing and my characters talk to me. I also enjoy the editing process and working with my wonderful editor, Nancy Swanson, at the Wild Rose Press.
I’m not good at promotion and sometimes feel as if my head is spinning with all the details to keep track of.
Give us a peek into your latest
published work?
In the small town of Cougar, struggling single mother and veterinary assistant Teresa Lansing is still bruised from a failed relationship when Frank McAllister sweeps her off her feet.
Frank is a big-city SWAT officer who moved to Cougar only four months ago. He's handsome, charming, forceful, very sexy, and a bit mysterious. He had his eye on Teresa even before they met and is pushing for a serious relationship right away.
Teresa finds his intense courtship flattering, and the sex is fabulous, but she doesn't want her deaf six-year-old son to be hurt again. Her former fiancé cheated on her when he got drunk after being unjustly fired, but he loves her and her son, and the whirlwind romance is complicated by his efforts to win Teresa back. And then there's the matter of the bodies buried at Big Devil Creek…
What’s next on the writing horizon
for you?
I hope it will be Guilty Knowledge, a police procedural/interracial romance.
Is there anything you want to tell readers?
Although The Rebound Effect is entirely fictional, Teresa is more like me than of my other characters, from her T-shirts to her religious philosophy. Frank is named after a real person, but in such a roundabout way that I don’t think anybody will guess. All of the scenes on the coast are based on places on the Oregon Coat that I visited while writing it. I had great fun renaming them, the most obvious being fictionalizing Florence as Genoa.
Excerpt:
She reached inside the robe to rub his shoulders. She was feeling something new now, something tender, loving, intimate, possessive. She kissed him. She wanted to give in to this sense of well-being, of the inevitability of a future together, of love, but wasn’t it too soon?
“Teresa,” he said, again as if her name was a special endearment. “I want to sleep with you. I want to hold you all night.”
“It sounds very romantic,” she said, “but what if I snore? What if I need you to let me breathe a little?”
“Breathing is overrated. I never want to let go of you again.” He kissed her, and then he lifted her in his arms. It had never happened to her before—Gene hadn’t even carried her across the threshold on their wedding night.
“Frank!” she cried, laughing, but a little scared—what if he dropped her? He was strong, but she wasn’t very light. He didn’t drop her—or he did, but deliberately, from about an inch above the cool, clean sheets of his bed. They were both laughing, and he started kissing her randomly, here and there. This can be a lot of fun, she told herself. Enjoy it while it lasts. “Remember when you asked if it was too soon for me to date?” she asked.
“Yeah, and you said it depended on the definition.”
“It turns out it was too soon,” she said, “and now it’s too late.”
Buy Links:
Social media links:
Website: http://www.lindagriffinauthor.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LindaGriffinA
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lgriffin08392487/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)