If you are a writer and would like to appear on this blog along with www.scifiromance.info, comment on this post.
The main blog - www.scifiromance.info - also welcomes guest blog spots, book spotlights, and more. All categories of writers are welcome, no discrimination. :-)
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Interview with Patty Froese
One of the biggest perks of being a writer is all the interesting people you meet both in cyberspace and in real life. Some pass by quickly, others become friends who share both joy and tears. For me, Patty Froese belongs to the latter category. She's a wonderful person with a great sense of humour, and I start most days with having a cup of coffee and reading her blog. Today is the release day of Patty's new novel, Legally Wed, and I have the pleasure of welcoming this brilliant Canadian writer to my blog!
Welcome Patty Froese!
It's great to see you here! How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
Having a writer in the family is different from having a romance writer in the family... They were always very supportive of my writing, but when I turned to romance, they mocked me heartlessly! LOL They still call me up with "genius plot lines" for me to consider and grossly inappropriate titles.(I write Christian romance, so you can see how naughty titles would give them the giggles...) Gotta love family! They keep me entertained!
Too funny! Do you have a favorite object pertinent to your writing? (Pen, coffee cup, pet, blanket, chair…?
My computer, I would say. As long as I have my computer, I'm a happy camper. My husband is a techy guy, so he's always wanting to get me a Mac or something. But I don't like my skill set messed with. Besides, I have everything saved where I want it, and I hate starting new with a new computer.
I can relate to that. I love technology, but changing computers always freaks me out. What do you love about your latest book?
This one was just fun to write. I loved following two couples, especially Mildred, the scorned wife whose husband leaves her for the secretary. I felt like I could really crawl into her skin. She's plus-sized, she's gray, she thought she was secure, and then her husband left her. She really kept things interesting for me!
Can you tell us something behind-the-scenes about this book that the readers would love to hear - something not easily found on your website?
Mildred is based on an ex-boyfriend's mother. Oh, it's true! (Now, every guy I ever dated is going say, "You calling my mama fat?") LOL! But real people worm their way into my books on a regular basis. I can't help it... Especially women! Women intrigue me, and when I find a woman I admire or just find infinitely interesting, aspects of her will show up all over the place.
Ahaha, I bet you'll get a few phone calls now with people trying to find out who she is. Anything else you want to share?
Yes! Come by my blog and share the quirky life of a Christian romance writer. http://pattyfroese.com
Or Facebook--I'm there a LOT. http://www.facebook.com/pattyfroese
I love to connect with readers and other writers. Keeps my feet on the ground. ;)
You have an amazing blog. I love it! Thank you so much for coming over!
Legally Wed Blurb:
When Rich McConaughey comes back to town, divorce papers in hand, he's in for more than he bargained for. Lisa Young, the woman he was married to for six months, hasn't changed a bit. His mother has though... she's gone from matronly to meow, and his father has taken off with the secretary. Does anything last anymore?
Lisa Young feels chained to the hardware store her family has run for generations. How can she tell her father that she hates the family business? When Rich walks back into her store asking her to finalize a divorce she thought was behind her, she thinks that the answer is to sign on the dotted line and move on. Except, Rich isn't making it so easy... and God has other plans.
For better or for worse, when you're legally wed, things can get complicated.
For more information:
My review of Legally Wed
Legally Wed by Patty Froese follows Lisa, single woman and owner of a hardware store in Charlbrook, a small town where everyone knows everyone. Her life seems planned and straightforward. Not necessarily exciting, but safe. That is, until her ex-husband walks in and claims they're not really divorced.
This is a Christian romance, and Christian readers will not be disappointed; Lisa and several other characters go to church and talk to God. It is also humorous, endearing, and entertaining. The fate and happiness of several people are at stake, and Froese makes you care about the characters.
I read through the book in two sittings; I HAD to see what would happen to everyone. I give Legally Wed five stars out of five, and warmly recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, humorous, and entertaining read.
Welcome Patty Froese!
It's great to see you here! How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?Having a writer in the family is different from having a romance writer in the family... They were always very supportive of my writing, but when I turned to romance, they mocked me heartlessly! LOL They still call me up with "genius plot lines" for me to consider and grossly inappropriate titles.(I write Christian romance, so you can see how naughty titles would give them the giggles...) Gotta love family! They keep me entertained!
Too funny! Do you have a favorite object pertinent to your writing? (Pen, coffee cup, pet, blanket, chair…?
My computer, I would say. As long as I have my computer, I'm a happy camper. My husband is a techy guy, so he's always wanting to get me a Mac or something. But I don't like my skill set messed with. Besides, I have everything saved where I want it, and I hate starting new with a new computer.
I can relate to that. I love technology, but changing computers always freaks me out. What do you love about your latest book?
This one was just fun to write. I loved following two couples, especially Mildred, the scorned wife whose husband leaves her for the secretary. I felt like I could really crawl into her skin. She's plus-sized, she's gray, she thought she was secure, and then her husband left her. She really kept things interesting for me!
Can you tell us something behind-the-scenes about this book that the readers would love to hear - something not easily found on your website?
Mildred is based on an ex-boyfriend's mother. Oh, it's true! (Now, every guy I ever dated is going say, "You calling my mama fat?") LOL! But real people worm their way into my books on a regular basis. I can't help it... Especially women! Women intrigue me, and when I find a woman I admire or just find infinitely interesting, aspects of her will show up all over the place.
Ahaha, I bet you'll get a few phone calls now with people trying to find out who she is. Anything else you want to share?
Yes! Come by my blog and share the quirky life of a Christian romance writer. http://pattyfroese.com
Or Facebook--I'm there a LOT. http://www.facebook.com/pattyfroese
I love to connect with readers and other writers. Keeps my feet on the ground. ;)
You have an amazing blog. I love it! Thank you so much for coming over!
Legally Wed Blurb: When Rich McConaughey comes back to town, divorce papers in hand, he's in for more than he bargained for. Lisa Young, the woman he was married to for six months, hasn't changed a bit. His mother has though... she's gone from matronly to meow, and his father has taken off with the secretary. Does anything last anymore?
Lisa Young feels chained to the hardware store her family has run for generations. How can she tell her father that she hates the family business? When Rich walks back into her store asking her to finalize a divorce she thought was behind her, she thinks that the answer is to sign on the dotted line and move on. Except, Rich isn't making it so easy... and God has other plans.
For better or for worse, when you're legally wed, things can get complicated.
For more information:
- Visit Patty on Facebook
- Look her up on Twitter
- Read her blog
- See Legally Wed on Amazon.com
- See Legally Wed on the Publisher's Website
My review of Legally Wed
Legally Wed by Patty Froese follows Lisa, single woman and owner of a hardware store in Charlbrook, a small town where everyone knows everyone. Her life seems planned and straightforward. Not necessarily exciting, but safe. That is, until her ex-husband walks in and claims they're not really divorced.
This is a Christian romance, and Christian readers will not be disappointed; Lisa and several other characters go to church and talk to God. It is also humorous, endearing, and entertaining. The fate and happiness of several people are at stake, and Froese makes you care about the characters.
I read through the book in two sittings; I HAD to see what would happen to everyone. I give Legally Wed five stars out of five, and warmly recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, humorous, and entertaining read.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Welcome Tiffinie Helmer!
Today is a treat for me. I met Tiffinie Helmer in an author's group on Facebook. We tweeted each other's books for a while, and she fascinated me with saying she would be off line over summer because she was going fishing in Alaska. I'm sure I answered something eloquent along the lines of, "You're going to what and the what? Wow!" After a few months of chatting (yes, I'm slow, lol) I decided to try one of her books, and ended up reading nonstop for three days until I had plowed through all of them. I a delighted to introduce her here on my blog!
Tiffinie Helmer, Romancing Exotic Alaska!
Welcome Tiffinie, please tell us your latest news!
Maria, thanks for the invite. It has been great getting to know you!
BEARING ALL, the 4th book in the Wild Men of Alaska Series was just released. I love this book. Love, love the characters. In one word, BEARING ALL is untamed. Here’s the blurb:
All he wants for Christmas is her…
Former Russian spy, Sergei Lavinsky, code name The Bear, is hibernating on the edge of Alaska. He lures the woman he loves to the Edge of Reason Lodge, hoping enough time has passed that her heart has softened and her knives have dulled.
All she wants is revenge…
Kate “No Mercy” Mercer is a CIA Agent sent to assassinate him. Again. This time she intends to succeed without ending up in his bed. She has a dozen reasons to kill him, and one of them is personal.
They’ll be completely unwrapped before the holiday is over…
I love how the characters in your books intertwine; it's like revisiting old friends. Do you have all that planned out in advance, or does it just happen?
It kind of just happens. Character is the first thing that comes to me. I am fascinated by people and why they do what they do. As a writer, it’s fun playing God and doing things to my characters and seeing how they react.
Are any of your characters based on real people?
I wish. I’d like to meet them. Talk about hanging with your peeps. Plus, the men are HOT.
Your books make me want to visit Alaska, and it's clear you know what you're talking about. Was it difficult to move away? Do you miss it?
I miss it a lot. Luckily, I do get to return for the summers, though commercial fishing is no vacation. I love that “wildness” that living “Outside” in the lower 48 doesn’t allow me. I need to be a little more civilized when I’m in Utah, where we live for the rest of the year. Both my husband and I are from Fairbanks, Alaska and have lots of family all over the state of Alaska. So its home. This time of year it’s killing me not seeing the Northern Lights.
The fishing-in-Alaska part fascinates me. Is it something you've always done? A family business, maybe?
My immediate family started commercial fishing in 1977. My grandparents and my uncle started in 1967. So, yeah, we know what we’re doing. When my kids were little my husband went fishing. Now I take the kids (he has to stay because of his job) and they fish with me. They are teenagers now. Nothing like having teenagers work and earn money while all their friends are getting into trouble or wasting their summers. I have great kids who know how to work and have serious skills in knowing how to survive.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I always had a great imagination. I used to get called out for “making up stories” when I was little. That sounds so much better than lying. But in junior high writing saved me. It was the best escape…and revenge. You can do things to people with a pen and paper that you don’t get punished for. Just change the names to protect the innocent and you are good to go.
Hahaha, I can relate. What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
Well, with what I just revealed above you might be able to guess. Killing scenes are my favorite. Those and when the characters are rapidly firing with dialogue. Love dialogue. Believe it or not, the love scenes are the hardest (no pun intended, well, maybe a little). For a love scene there has to be a reason for me. It has to move the story and reveal more than what’s under the clothes. They are difficult and time consuming. I’d rather kill people.
What's the biggest challenge you've faced in writing?
Time. There is not enough time to do all that I want to.
Do you have a favorite object you need when you write?
Music. It helps me set the mood. Most of BEARING ALL was written to tango music. I hope, when readers read it, the music comes through with the action and the dialogue.
What’s your favorite place you’ve visited? Do you have a “must see” destination on your bucket list?
FINLAND! I was a foreign exchange student to Finland in high school. The people in Finland and Sweden (I was so lucky to have spent a few days) were the nicest people. Loved the place, the people, and the cheese! I can’t wait to return and visit all of Scandinavia.
Yay! Finland is beautiful, but I'm patriotic, so I'll say Sweden is the best. LOL. Is there something funny about you people don’t know?
I love onion rings but hate onions. Go figure.
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Check out the webpages below for more information on Tiffinie and her books!
Webpage: http://www.tiffiniehelmer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiffiniehelmerauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TiffinieHelmer
See "Bearing All" on Amazon
Check out "Bearing All" at Barnes and Noble
Tiffinie Helmer, Romancing Exotic Alaska!
Maria, thanks for the invite. It has been great getting to know you!
BEARING ALL, the 4th book in the Wild Men of Alaska Series was just released. I love this book. Love, love the characters. In one word, BEARING ALL is untamed. Here’s the blurb:
All he wants for Christmas is her…
Former Russian spy, Sergei Lavinsky, code name The Bear, is hibernating on the edge of Alaska. He lures the woman he loves to the Edge of Reason Lodge, hoping enough time has passed that her heart has softened and her knives have dulled.
All she wants is revenge…
Kate “No Mercy” Mercer is a CIA Agent sent to assassinate him. Again. This time she intends to succeed without ending up in his bed. She has a dozen reasons to kill him, and one of them is personal.
They’ll be completely unwrapped before the holiday is over…
I love how the characters in your books intertwine; it's like revisiting old friends. Do you have all that planned out in advance, or does it just happen?
It kind of just happens. Character is the first thing that comes to me. I am fascinated by people and why they do what they do. As a writer, it’s fun playing God and doing things to my characters and seeing how they react.
Are any of your characters based on real people?
I wish. I’d like to meet them. Talk about hanging with your peeps. Plus, the men are HOT.
Your books make me want to visit Alaska, and it's clear you know what you're talking about. Was it difficult to move away? Do you miss it?
I miss it a lot. Luckily, I do get to return for the summers, though commercial fishing is no vacation. I love that “wildness” that living “Outside” in the lower 48 doesn’t allow me. I need to be a little more civilized when I’m in Utah, where we live for the rest of the year. Both my husband and I are from Fairbanks, Alaska and have lots of family all over the state of Alaska. So its home. This time of year it’s killing me not seeing the Northern Lights.
The fishing-in-Alaska part fascinates me. Is it something you've always done? A family business, maybe?
My immediate family started commercial fishing in 1977. My grandparents and my uncle started in 1967. So, yeah, we know what we’re doing. When my kids were little my husband went fishing. Now I take the kids (he has to stay because of his job) and they fish with me. They are teenagers now. Nothing like having teenagers work and earn money while all their friends are getting into trouble or wasting their summers. I have great kids who know how to work and have serious skills in knowing how to survive.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I always had a great imagination. I used to get called out for “making up stories” when I was little. That sounds so much better than lying. But in junior high writing saved me. It was the best escape…and revenge. You can do things to people with a pen and paper that you don’t get punished for. Just change the names to protect the innocent and you are good to go.
Hahaha, I can relate. What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
Well, with what I just revealed above you might be able to guess. Killing scenes are my favorite. Those and when the characters are rapidly firing with dialogue. Love dialogue. Believe it or not, the love scenes are the hardest (no pun intended, well, maybe a little). For a love scene there has to be a reason for me. It has to move the story and reveal more than what’s under the clothes. They are difficult and time consuming. I’d rather kill people.
What's the biggest challenge you've faced in writing?
Time. There is not enough time to do all that I want to.
Do you have a favorite object you need when you write?
Music. It helps me set the mood. Most of BEARING ALL was written to tango music. I hope, when readers read it, the music comes through with the action and the dialogue.
What’s your favorite place you’ve visited? Do you have a “must see” destination on your bucket list?
FINLAND! I was a foreign exchange student to Finland in high school. The people in Finland and Sweden (I was so lucky to have spent a few days) were the nicest people. Loved the place, the people, and the cheese! I can’t wait to return and visit all of Scandinavia.
Yay! Finland is beautiful, but I'm patriotic, so I'll say Sweden is the best. LOL. Is there something funny about you people don’t know?
I love onion rings but hate onions. Go figure.
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Check out the webpages below for more information on Tiffinie and her books!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiffiniehelmerauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TiffinieHelmer
See "Bearing All" on Amazon
Check out "Bearing All" at Barnes and Noble
Monday, October 1, 2012
Welcome Stephanie Burkhart!
It is my absolute pleasure to introduce a very talented author, and fascinating person. Welcome Stephanie Burkhart!
Stephanie Burkhart, writing Romance under the Moonlight
STEPH: Maria, thanks so much for having me here today.
MARIA: It's a pleasure to have you here. Let's get to know you a bit – who is your favorite author and what really strikes you about their work?
STEPH: It's a toss up between Victoria Holt and JK Rowling. I love Holt's gothic romance, the dark, dangerous hero and the heroine in distress. She had a strong understanding of historical elements. While her writing is more "telling" in nature, (than showing) as a teenager in the 80's, I found myself just losing myself in her stories.
I love Rowling's imagination and creativity. The world of Harry Potter is so unique. Her writing engages me as a reader and keeps me flipping the pages. Her characters are interesting, and her writing style is easy to read. If you read too fast though, you'll miss something that turns up in a future plot point. Her writing voice reads very naturally and I think that's what allows her to connect with young adults and readers.
My goal as a writer is to make my readers lose themselves in the story by using a natural voice and an easy writing style.
MARIA: What do you love about your latest book?
STEPH: My latest book with Desert Breeze Publishing is "The Green Rose," a fantasy romance, and I love the journey that Sonia, the heroine, takes in the book. She's determined to find her kidnapped father, but after Gabriel's betrayal, trust is an issue with her. It's up to Ivánstan to earn her trust.
MARIA: What is your favorite review of one of your books?
STEPH: My favorite review was given by Long and Short Reviews for my paranormal romance, "Twilight Over Moldavia." The adventure Stefan and Caroline take was one that really resonated with me. They hardly know each other, but come together over a shared problem. It's a very suspenseful story.
Here's a snippet: "Twilight Over Moldavia is even better than the first book in the series. It is an excellent story filled with just the right balance of romance, magic, and danger. Stefan and Caroline’s story certainly has a happy and satisfying ending, but the epilogue opens up a whole new story line. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this exciting series." – Poinsetta, 5 Stars, Long & Short, Nominated for Book of the Month, FEB 2012.
MARIA: Do your fictional characters develop on their own or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
STEPH: Well I plan, but only a little. I plan out their physical traits, their strengths and weaknesses, and I give them a job. After that, they're on their own.
MARIA: What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
STEPH: The love scene! What I love about writing romance is that when you start the story you meet the hero and heroine at certain points in their lives. They come together over a common problem and struggle against their internal conflicts until they reach that moment where they want to take on hope and love. As a reader, (and writer) I've gone on this amazing journey with them and I want the reward of a love scene.
MARIA: Would you share with us what inspired you to write "The Green Rose?"
STEPH: I'm on Writing.com and I came across a writing prompt: Write a fantasy with a spoon, honey, and a flower, no more than 4,000 words. I wrote a scene where Ivánstan meets the 3 witches and figures out their riddle so they have to give him the green rose. I really wanted to expand on this scene, thus the novel was born.
MARIA: What's your favorite place you visited? Do you have a must see destination on your bucket list?
STEPH: My favorite destination had to be Berlin. While I was in the US Army I visited Berlin in 1988 before the fall of the wall, in 1990-2 and in 1996. The city changed so much during those years and I was thrilled to have a front row seat.
I would love to visit England since I've never been.
MARIA: Oooh, I love England. Is there something about you that isn't well known that you'd like to share?
STEPH: I was married in Nykobig, Denmark in 1991.
MARIA: That's cool, I had no idea! Thank you for visiting me. I loved having you here!
Enjoy this Excerpt from "The Green Rose"
Sonia gazed at the brick house on the opposite shore, cupping her chin in her hand. Draco sat next to the shore, his wings resting over his back and his tail dipped into the water. Hiro perched on a branch overhead.
"I wonder how Ivánstan fares?"
Draco snorted. Sonia wasn't sure if that was an "I-don't-know" or a response to something else.
"I wish I was there with him."
Draco flicked his tail against the water, spraying mist into the air. Sonia found the light drizzling of water refreshing.
"He's a good man -- and handsome. I enjoy his company."
Draco snapped his forked tongue, catching a fly. Sonia tamped down the urge to roll her eyes. And here she thought they were having a conversation.
"He understands you better than you think."
"I'm not so sure, Hiro." Sonia walked up to Draco and placed a hand on his relaxed wing. "I care for Ivánstan very much."
The dragon swung his head in her direction, the slits in his eyes widening and softening. The prick of a blade pierced her back. She froze. Draco's eyes peered past her to the man holding the blade, but he remained still.
"You care for dragons, Sonia?"
"Gabriel."
"Aye, it's me. What a fool you are to let down your guard and confess your heart to a beast that doesn't understand a word you say."
"You're a coward and a traitor."
"Oh, don't try to goad me. I have the advantage."
Buy links:
See more of Stephanie Burkhart:
Stephanie Burkhart, writing Romance under the Moonlight
STEPH: Maria, thanks so much for having me here today.
MARIA: It's a pleasure to have you here. Let's get to know you a bit – who is your favorite author and what really strikes you about their work?
STEPH: It's a toss up between Victoria Holt and JK Rowling. I love Holt's gothic romance, the dark, dangerous hero and the heroine in distress. She had a strong understanding of historical elements. While her writing is more "telling" in nature, (than showing) as a teenager in the 80's, I found myself just losing myself in her stories.
I love Rowling's imagination and creativity. The world of Harry Potter is so unique. Her writing engages me as a reader and keeps me flipping the pages. Her characters are interesting, and her writing style is easy to read. If you read too fast though, you'll miss something that turns up in a future plot point. Her writing voice reads very naturally and I think that's what allows her to connect with young adults and readers.
My goal as a writer is to make my readers lose themselves in the story by using a natural voice and an easy writing style.
MARIA: What do you love about your latest book?
STEPH: My latest book with Desert Breeze Publishing is "The Green Rose," a fantasy romance, and I love the journey that Sonia, the heroine, takes in the book. She's determined to find her kidnapped father, but after Gabriel's betrayal, trust is an issue with her. It's up to Ivánstan to earn her trust.
MARIA: What is your favorite review of one of your books?
STEPH: My favorite review was given by Long and Short Reviews for my paranormal romance, "Twilight Over Moldavia." The adventure Stefan and Caroline take was one that really resonated with me. They hardly know each other, but come together over a shared problem. It's a very suspenseful story.
Here's a snippet: "Twilight Over Moldavia is even better than the first book in the series. It is an excellent story filled with just the right balance of romance, magic, and danger. Stefan and Caroline’s story certainly has a happy and satisfying ending, but the epilogue opens up a whole new story line. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this exciting series." – Poinsetta, 5 Stars, Long & Short, Nominated for Book of the Month, FEB 2012.
MARIA: Do your fictional characters develop on their own or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
STEPH: Well I plan, but only a little. I plan out their physical traits, their strengths and weaknesses, and I give them a job. After that, they're on their own.
MARIA: What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
STEPH: The love scene! What I love about writing romance is that when you start the story you meet the hero and heroine at certain points in their lives. They come together over a common problem and struggle against their internal conflicts until they reach that moment where they want to take on hope and love. As a reader, (and writer) I've gone on this amazing journey with them and I want the reward of a love scene.
MARIA: Would you share with us what inspired you to write "The Green Rose?"
STEPH: I'm on Writing.com and I came across a writing prompt: Write a fantasy with a spoon, honey, and a flower, no more than 4,000 words. I wrote a scene where Ivánstan meets the 3 witches and figures out their riddle so they have to give him the green rose. I really wanted to expand on this scene, thus the novel was born.
MARIA: What's your favorite place you visited? Do you have a must see destination on your bucket list?
STEPH: My favorite destination had to be Berlin. While I was in the US Army I visited Berlin in 1988 before the fall of the wall, in 1990-2 and in 1996. The city changed so much during those years and I was thrilled to have a front row seat.
I would love to visit England since I've never been.
MARIA: Oooh, I love England. Is there something about you that isn't well known that you'd like to share?
STEPH: I was married in Nykobig, Denmark in 1991.
MARIA: That's cool, I had no idea! Thank you for visiting me. I loved having you here!
Enjoy this Excerpt from "The Green Rose"
"I wonder how Ivánstan fares?"
Draco snorted. Sonia wasn't sure if that was an "I-don't-know" or a response to something else.
"I wish I was there with him."
Draco flicked his tail against the water, spraying mist into the air. Sonia found the light drizzling of water refreshing.
"He's a good man -- and handsome. I enjoy his company."
Draco snapped his forked tongue, catching a fly. Sonia tamped down the urge to roll her eyes. And here she thought they were having a conversation.
"He understands you better than you think."
"I'm not so sure, Hiro." Sonia walked up to Draco and placed a hand on his relaxed wing. "I care for Ivánstan very much."
The dragon swung his head in her direction, the slits in his eyes widening and softening. The prick of a blade pierced her back. She froze. Draco's eyes peered past her to the man holding the blade, but he remained still.
"You care for dragons, Sonia?"
"Gabriel."
"Aye, it's me. What a fool you are to let down your guard and confess your heart to a beast that doesn't understand a word you say."
"You're a coward and a traitor."
"Oh, don't try to goad me. I have the advantage."
The Green Rose is available as an ebook only.
Buy links:
See more of Stephanie Burkhart:
- Website: http://www.stephanieburkhart.com
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor
- GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart
- YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
- Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Interview with Shaunna Gonzales
I have had the opportunity to interview author Shaunna Gonzales, whose book Dark Days of Promise will be released September 21. Shaunna is a fascinating person, and her book is definitely on my TBR pile. She'll be back here October 11, with a character interview or some other fun stuff, so keep your eyes open! :-)
Welcome Shaunna Gonzales!
Have you always been writing? If no, what got you started?
I thought I wanted to be a writer right out of high school but my older sister, an English Major, shared with me that she had just been rejected. At that time, I didn't know or understand the road to getting published. I knew I had no intention of being an English Major and I remember thinking "If she can't succeed, how can I?"Fast forward to 2005 when my youngest started school. I had to find something to fill a lot of free time and still be able to stay at home. I started reading novels.
After reading most of J.K.Rowlings Harry Potter series I craved more great reads and went to the local library. I spent months wading through awful fiction, one touting its prize winning status, I threw it across the room. (In my weakened condition it only made it to the bed for a soft landing.)
"I could write better than this!" I grumbled. My hubby, ever understanding of my turbulent moods answered with a calm, "Then why don't you?" It wasn't long before I set out to do just that!
I love that! Do your characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
I am a "write by the seat of your pants writer." That means that if I plan too much, even my characters, I get bored. This makes it extremely difficult to write Trilogies or Series. It takes me a good hundred pages of the rough draft to know a character and as my characters are always learning and growing on their own, they take on lives of their own, even after I stop writing the story.
Do you base any of your character's personalities off people you know? (If "yes," do you tell them?)
Hmm... that is a toughy. In Dark Days of Promise, Victoria is very much her own self. I keep asking myself if there is any of me in her, probably. Her best friend, Janine is a combination of several ladies, all deceased but very much alive on the page. I doubt their children will recognize them. And Janine's son, Kelly Chase. Kelly is partially based a a group of men, veterans that I know. Whether it is his description (physical or emotional) his injuries, or his PTSD, yes, I've told the guys in a round about way and given them credit in the acknowledgments. But the third in the love triangle would not be pleased if I told him that the character is based on him, so that one I'll keep to myself.
So... Kelly suffers from PTSD. That's an unusual but interesting subject. Is there a reason you wanted to write about it, or did it just fit into the story?
I wrote a scene to fix a boring mess and loved it. Loved the suspense it brought to the story and had to figure out where the idea came from.
It took until after the book was finish to completely understand and in the mean time I had to learn why that character would do what he did. My only lead took me back to the early seventies when I met a veteran as a child. Back then I don't think they even had a name for Post Traumatic Stress and if the military did, they didn't use it, at least not openly and the veterans dealing with the disorder were labeled. As I understand it, they were considered weak and in some circles worthless.
As I got deeper into my research and became friends with the veterans that I have, I developed a real affinity for the men who allowed me into their tightly knit brotherhood, albeit on the fringes. Will I ever be an equal? No. Will I ever completely understand? I hope not. But I respect what they and all veterans have done for their country. I also feel strongly that we, their co-habitants need to be aware. PTSD is more than a military acronym and one does not have to be a veteran to suffer from this disorder. I have been told, although I do not have the facts to back it up, that even an infant can suffer from PTSD.
The man I spoke of earlier is still able to kill. But he is not a killer today. Today he is a father of a very large family and a grandfather as well. I've lost touch with him, but I will not soon forget the cautions when playing with him. He would bounce me on his feet in the air or let me use his huge muscular frame as my personal "jungle gym" as long as he was on his back and invited me to do so. He loved children and still does. Never, ever could I touch or try to tackle him from behind. Today I know why. Then I didn't.
That's a fascinating story. I imagine that doing research for the book was a challenge?
Yes, but not in the way you might think. I invested a lot of time and patience in developing real friendship.
Did you find information on PTSD readily available?
I'm not thinking it would be that hard even if you want a clinical approach, but if one went to a psychiatrist you wouldn't get information on a particular case due to doctor/patient confidentiality.
Good point. I'm guessing it was difficult to get people to talk about it?
I went to veterans who I knew (if only vaguely) through my church. From there I developed a genuine interest and friendship and a sensitivity to not push too hard. I had to learn body language, unique to the individual that let me know I was getting too close. Talking in a small group, just the veterans and myself, without spouses present also helped as I'm not sure these guys wouldn't like their wives to hear the things I did.
When a veteran says something like, "I could tell you but then I'd have to kill you." He very likely is being very honest. It also helped to let these people know why I was asking and get them involved in my project. Those that were not invested didn't share as much as openly and that is fine too.
Now I'm more curious than ever, and I really look forward to reading the book. Thank you so much for stopping by, Shaunna!
Thirty-four year old Vicki Laramie must learn to trust before she can love, but she might die trying.
While Vicki’s children grapple with the death of their father -- a man whom she’s successfully fabricated as loving, a lie her rebellious teenager recognizes -- she must find a way to support her family and find a role model for her boys. She never intends to fall for Staff Sergeant Chase, her best friend’s son, who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She’d much rather choose a safer man to love, but her children have a voice in the decision she makes.
With two deaths to deal with, a suitor after her money, a rebellious son, and Sergeant Chase’s repeated attacks, she can only hope to survive the danger she faces. If she doesn’t, her children will be left without either parent.
Link to buy: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-345/Dark-Days-of-Promise/Detail.bok
Read Shaunna's blog: http://shaunnagonzales.blogspot.com/
Find Shaunna on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaunnagonzales
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Interview with Janis Lane
Being a dog lover, just seeing the cover of Janis/Emma Lane's new book, Gone to the Dogs, makes me grin. I am delighted to present her on my blog!
Welcome Janis Lane - author of regency and contemporary romance!
Welcome here, ! Please tell us your latest news!
My sequel to SANDPIPER AFFAIR, GONE TO THE DOGS, is slotted for release the first week in June. I love the cover which has a laughing Labrador and the pink sneaker he stole.
Who is your favorite author, and what really strikes you about their work?
Depends on the mood I’m in. I like Georgette Heyer when I feel like historical romance with great characters. Steven King occasionally, his book about writing. Janet Evanovich when I want to laugh. JD Robb is always a favorite, love her hero and heroine, Eve and Roak. Jane Austen, of course. So many…for sheer envy of great writing, I choose John Steinbeck. He knew his way around a sentence, for sure. But what about…okay, okay. That’s enough.
I also love Stephen King's book On Writing. When I read it, he seemed like a real person for the first time. Is there a single book or author that made you want to write?
Nope. I think I would read the label on paper towels if I hadn’t anything else. My head has always spun stories whether I wrote them down or not.
I know the feeling. Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I’m told I learned to read at age three sitting on my father’s lap with the comics. Reading and Writing seem to go together.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
They love it. Yes, and help me with plots.
What do you love about your latest book?
Again as in the prequel, I get to follow wild life photographer, Abby Naycomb, around on her adventures. Nature is a favorite theme for me. I love the relationship between Abby and Adam. My characters are flawed human beings and I love that about them too.
Can you tell us something behind-the-scenes about this book that the readers would love to hear - something not easily found on your website?
If you haven’t experienced the wonderful natural springs in Florida, you’re missing out. There’s more to that state than the beaches although they are wonderful too.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
I’m frequently asked that question and I always deny it. Truth, I use bits and pieces of many people that I know to make a whole new person. Once I used secondary characters and based them on a couple of my friends. They failed to recognize themselves so I probably got it all wrong. Okay, I got their descriptions right anyway.
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Again, Abby Naycomb from SANDPIPER AFFAIR and the sequel, GONE TO THE DOGS. She’s not a real person, but she allows me to live vicariously as she goes on her nature photography trips. In another world I would have loved that job.
What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
They are all interesting with challenges that differ. I can get carried away when describing nature scenes. I have to do some severe editing later.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I think we work where our God-given talent takes us. You’ll never find me applying for a job as an accountant.
How does it feel when you write?
Great, but I am always amazed when I finish that I wrote a new story.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in writing?
POV! I struggle to stay in one point of view.
I recognize that one... You have written many books, which is your favorite?
MY PASSIONATE LOVE, A SCANDALOUS DESIGN, BELINDA, MY LOVE, DARK DOMINO and soon to be published, BELOVED SOLDIER RETURNS. These are all Traditional Regencies published @ MUSA PUBLISHING.
SANDPIPER AFFAIR and GONE TO THE DOGS, both Contemporaries, are found @ DESERT BREEZE. They are all my favorites.
That is an impressive list of books! What’s your favorite place you’ve visited? Do you have a “must see” destination on your bucket list?
Hawaii, I guess. I loved England too. Bucket list, hmmm. I want to take a cruise down the Mississippi River.
Is there something funny about you people don’t know?
I’m part owner of a plant nursery and herbtique. I love helping young couples plan their first perennial gardens. While I’m transplanting petunias, I often plot and plot and plot.
Very cool! Anything else you want to share?
Thank you for hosting me. I know you’ll enjoy seeing the laughing dog on my cover.
Thank you for being here! Don't miss the excerpt from "Gone to the Dogs" below!
To see more of Emma, visit her blog: http://janislane.blogspot.com/
Blurb:
First romantic stage of falling in love: check. Now comes the challenges for a wealthy and handsome park ranger and a very independent wild life photographer learning to live together while respecting each other’s autonomy. Abby appreciates her friends’ advice when an unruly puppy disrupts her work while Adam is too busy with his own tasks to solve the problem. Abby delights in capturing the love and affection in the budding romances of her friends. She agrees to photograph the beautifully behaved entrants of a sanctioned AKC contest. An unruly contestant holds a grudge when Abby reveals her work has placed him in a compromising location. Abby works to set up her own photography shop in town. Poor puppy. He knows there’s a dangerous animal lose in the neighborhood, but is anyone listening to him?
Excerpt from "Gone To The Dogs"
Adam was sitting on a bench by the door and rose at her entrance. They smiled at one another, each looking deep into the other's eyes. His hand tightened around her elbow as they followed the waiter to a reserved table against the back wall of windows -- their favorite seat.
Adam leaned forward, catching her hands in his. "Hello, Ms. Abigail Naycomb."
"Hello, Adam, the handsomest man in the world. Were you waiting for me long?"
They smiled at each other. She supposed they were in love. Well, he said it often enough, and she thought it all the time.
"Only about five minutes, but I think I was early. Have I told you that I love you?" He looked at her and she chuckled.
"I don't think you have. Would you like to tell me?"
He raised her hand to his mouth and kissed the center of her palm. She shivered with pleasure. Okay, she never said he was a slouch in the romance department, did she?
"I love you, Abby. I have loved you from the first moment I saw you crawling around on your stomach in that sand dune with your seat sticking up in the air, and the wind blowing your hair around."
She laughed at the word picture he drew and self-consciously tucked a curl behind her ear.
"No, don't. I love the way your curls surround your face. You remind me of a Renoir painting I once saw. Oh, but she was bathing in a stream. Do you suppose you could get naked so I could compare?"
Abby laughed out loud, attracting the attention of the waitress who came over to take their order. Adam, with a grin still on his face, ordered the house specialty for them both.
The restaurant was crowded with diners. Adam waved across the room at a couple who just came in. Abby waved as well. She couldn't remember their names, but she recognized their faces. She was feeling more and more confident as she grew accustomed to the small town and its inhabitants.
Out the window, the brown pelicans lined up on the deck railing, all facing outward for some show that only they could see. She and Adam both turned to enjoy the lakeside view while the wind whipped the water into white capped waves. Wheeling overhead, she could see two eagles slipping into circles around each other in some courting dance, she supposed. It was spring. There was a lot of that going on.
She turned her attention back to Adam, who was wearing a shirt in her favorite blue color. She loved the way his thick, straw-colored hair flopped onto his forehead. His eyes were striking in his deeply tanned face, and she felt she could sink into them. Gosh, I love you. He looked at her, smiling with a question on his face. She drew in a deep breath.
Welcome Janis Lane - author of regency and contemporary romance!
My sequel to SANDPIPER AFFAIR, GONE TO THE DOGS, is slotted for release the first week in June. I love the cover which has a laughing Labrador and the pink sneaker he stole.
Who is your favorite author, and what really strikes you about their work?
Depends on the mood I’m in. I like Georgette Heyer when I feel like historical romance with great characters. Steven King occasionally, his book about writing. Janet Evanovich when I want to laugh. JD Robb is always a favorite, love her hero and heroine, Eve and Roak. Jane Austen, of course. So many…for sheer envy of great writing, I choose John Steinbeck. He knew his way around a sentence, for sure. But what about…okay, okay. That’s enough.
I also love Stephen King's book On Writing. When I read it, he seemed like a real person for the first time. Is there a single book or author that made you want to write?
Nope. I think I would read the label on paper towels if I hadn’t anything else. My head has always spun stories whether I wrote them down or not.
I know the feeling. Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I’m told I learned to read at age three sitting on my father’s lap with the comics. Reading and Writing seem to go together.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
They love it. Yes, and help me with plots.
What do you love about your latest book?
Again as in the prequel, I get to follow wild life photographer, Abby Naycomb, around on her adventures. Nature is a favorite theme for me. I love the relationship between Abby and Adam. My characters are flawed human beings and I love that about them too.
Can you tell us something behind-the-scenes about this book that the readers would love to hear - something not easily found on your website?
If you haven’t experienced the wonderful natural springs in Florida, you’re missing out. There’s more to that state than the beaches although they are wonderful too.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
I’m frequently asked that question and I always deny it. Truth, I use bits and pieces of many people that I know to make a whole new person. Once I used secondary characters and based them on a couple of my friends. They failed to recognize themselves so I probably got it all wrong. Okay, I got their descriptions right anyway.
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Again, Abby Naycomb from SANDPIPER AFFAIR and the sequel, GONE TO THE DOGS. She’s not a real person, but she allows me to live vicariously as she goes on her nature photography trips. In another world I would have loved that job.
What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
They are all interesting with challenges that differ. I can get carried away when describing nature scenes. I have to do some severe editing later.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I think we work where our God-given talent takes us. You’ll never find me applying for a job as an accountant.
How does it feel when you write?
Great, but I am always amazed when I finish that I wrote a new story.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in writing?
POV! I struggle to stay in one point of view.
I recognize that one... You have written many books, which is your favorite?
MY PASSIONATE LOVE, A SCANDALOUS DESIGN, BELINDA, MY LOVE, DARK DOMINO and soon to be published, BELOVED SOLDIER RETURNS. These are all Traditional Regencies published @ MUSA PUBLISHING.
SANDPIPER AFFAIR and GONE TO THE DOGS, both Contemporaries, are found @ DESERT BREEZE. They are all my favorites.
That is an impressive list of books! What’s your favorite place you’ve visited? Do you have a “must see” destination on your bucket list?
Hawaii, I guess. I loved England too. Bucket list, hmmm. I want to take a cruise down the Mississippi River.
Is there something funny about you people don’t know?
I’m part owner of a plant nursery and herbtique. I love helping young couples plan their first perennial gardens. While I’m transplanting petunias, I often plot and plot and plot.
Very cool! Anything else you want to share?
Thank you for hosting me. I know you’ll enjoy seeing the laughing dog on my cover.
Thank you for being here! Don't miss the excerpt from "Gone to the Dogs" below!
To see more of Emma, visit her blog: http://janislane.blogspot.com/
Blurb:First romantic stage of falling in love: check. Now comes the challenges for a wealthy and handsome park ranger and a very independent wild life photographer learning to live together while respecting each other’s autonomy. Abby appreciates her friends’ advice when an unruly puppy disrupts her work while Adam is too busy with his own tasks to solve the problem. Abby delights in capturing the love and affection in the budding romances of her friends. She agrees to photograph the beautifully behaved entrants of a sanctioned AKC contest. An unruly contestant holds a grudge when Abby reveals her work has placed him in a compromising location. Abby works to set up her own photography shop in town. Poor puppy. He knows there’s a dangerous animal lose in the neighborhood, but is anyone listening to him?
Excerpt from "Gone To The Dogs"
Adam was sitting on a bench by the door and rose at her entrance. They smiled at one another, each looking deep into the other's eyes. His hand tightened around her elbow as they followed the waiter to a reserved table against the back wall of windows -- their favorite seat.
Adam leaned forward, catching her hands in his. "Hello, Ms. Abigail Naycomb."
"Hello, Adam, the handsomest man in the world. Were you waiting for me long?"
They smiled at each other. She supposed they were in love. Well, he said it often enough, and she thought it all the time.
"Only about five minutes, but I think I was early. Have I told you that I love you?" He looked at her and she chuckled.
"I don't think you have. Would you like to tell me?"
He raised her hand to his mouth and kissed the center of her palm. She shivered with pleasure. Okay, she never said he was a slouch in the romance department, did she?
"I love you, Abby. I have loved you from the first moment I saw you crawling around on your stomach in that sand dune with your seat sticking up in the air, and the wind blowing your hair around."
She laughed at the word picture he drew and self-consciously tucked a curl behind her ear.
"No, don't. I love the way your curls surround your face. You remind me of a Renoir painting I once saw. Oh, but she was bathing in a stream. Do you suppose you could get naked so I could compare?"
Abby laughed out loud, attracting the attention of the waitress who came over to take their order. Adam, with a grin still on his face, ordered the house specialty for them both.
The restaurant was crowded with diners. Adam waved across the room at a couple who just came in. Abby waved as well. She couldn't remember their names, but she recognized their faces. She was feeling more and more confident as she grew accustomed to the small town and its inhabitants.
Out the window, the brown pelicans lined up on the deck railing, all facing outward for some show that only they could see. She and Adam both turned to enjoy the lakeside view while the wind whipped the water into white capped waves. Wheeling overhead, she could see two eagles slipping into circles around each other in some courting dance, she supposed. It was spring. There was a lot of that going on.
She turned her attention back to Adam, who was wearing a shirt in her favorite blue color. She loved the way his thick, straw-colored hair flopped onto his forehead. His eyes were striking in his deeply tanned face, and she felt she could sink into them. Gosh, I love you. He looked at her, smiling with a question on his face. She drew in a deep breath.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Interview with Melanie Atkins
I am very excited to introduce today's guest, who writes scary and suspenseful books with a touch of romance. Welcome Melanie Atkins!
Melanie Atkins, author of killer romance and suspense!
Please tell us your latest news!
I have a new free author app for iPads and iPhones up in the iTunes store! I'm really excited about this. Search "Melanie Atkins" to find it.
Also, Deliverance from Evil, the fourth book in my Keller County Cops series, will come out June 1 at Desert Breeze Publishing.
If you were to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No. Except I would have written it faster. I had too many distractions and kept getting sidetracked.
They say there's an app for everything, and there's now an app for you. Would you tell us a little about that?
Yes. I met Frank Danna from Onseeker Technologies at the Romantic Times Convention in Chicago in April and signed up with that company to develop an author app. With it, readers can pull up a list of all of my books complete with all prices and sales venues, blurbs, and excerpts. They can also connect with me via Twitter and Facebook straight from the app and access my blog feed. In addition, I can input any book signings and appearances to let them know where I'll be. What a great way to connect with people!
You blog about Castle (the TV show) - how did that come about?
I met Lee Lofland when he was an instructor at Forensic University in St. Louis in 2007 and have been using him as a resource for law enforcement info ever since. I've also attended his Writers' Police Academy for the past two years. He found out I'm a big Castle fan and asked me last year to blog about the relationship (romance) part of the show, while he critiques the police procedure. It's been fun. Lately, we've had a good cop-bad cop thing going on.
Who is your favorite author, and what really strikes you about their work?
I don't know that I have one favorite, but I do love Lisa Gardner, John Sanford, Karen Rose, Tess Gerritsen, and Robin Perrini. All write great suspense and/or thrillers, my favorite types of books.
Is there a single book or author that made you want to write?
Not really. I've always read, beginning when I was just a kid. My mom would take me to the library every week and let me check out stacks of books. We lived in a small town with a tiny library, and before long we had to order books from another library. I read everything I could get my hands on.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
They like it. My mother has read all of the books I have in print. She's 90 and doesn't understand ebooks, although I think she'd like them if given the chance. Once she has cataract surgery and can see better, I plan to introduce her to my Kindle Fire.
Do you have a favorite object pertinent to your writing? (Pen, coffee cup, pet, blanket, chair…?
Not an object, per se, but I love to write outside on my deck. I have less distractions out there and enjoy writing while listening to birds chirping with my cats sprawled out under my chair. Great creative mojo.
What do you love about your latest book?
Deliverance from Evil will be out June 1. In this story, Tessa Doucet chose to go into mortuary science because the dead can't hurt her. Then a monster from her past turns up on her embalming table, and she's forced to confront the demon she thought she'd put to rest. Puzzled by the case Tessa stirs up, Detective Cash Starkey finds himself falling for her, even though he swore to keep his distance. He doesn't want a relationship, especially not with a woman running from her past. Yet when Tessa's life is threatened, he runs into the fray, and together they defeat her demons and put the past behind them.
I enjoyed watching Tessa and Cash's story unfold. They had trouble learning to trust one another, but once they did their bond grew strong. Their relationship took a turn I didn't expect, but I love how it all worked out.
Do your fictional characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
I know their backgrounds before I start writing, but often learn their secrets as the stories unfold.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
Not whole personalities, but I do use little quirks and oddities I spot in people I meet. You've heard the old adage: Be careful what you do, because you might end up in my novel. That's true!
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Nick Marconi from Blood Rite, my March 2012 from Whiskey Creek Press, is my favorite character so far. And no, he's not modeled after anyone. He came straight out of my head. I wrote that book in six weeks. I don't know where it came from.
What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
I love writing action scenes the most.
How does it feel when you write?
I feel an urgency to get the words down. I have to type fast to keep up with the words flowing from my brain. When my characters start to talk, I have to write. And quickly.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in writing?
Finding enough time to write without distractions. Sometimes, life gets in the way.
What’s your favorite place you’ve visited?
I've done a fair amount of traveling and really loved New York City, the energy and complexity of the place, and I also love the Caymen Islands and London, England. Let's just say I love to see and explore new places of all kinds. I'd love to go back to those places and also explore more of the world, mainly Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil. One day, I hope to visit all of those places.
For more information about Melanie, go to:
Website: http://www.melanieatkins.com
Blog: http://melanieatkins.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://www.face-book.com/melanie.atkins
Twitter: http://twitter.com/melanie_atkins
Melanie Atkins, author of killer romance and suspense!
I have a new free author app for iPads and iPhones up in the iTunes store! I'm really excited about this. Search "Melanie Atkins" to find it.
Also, Deliverance from Evil, the fourth book in my Keller County Cops series, will come out June 1 at Desert Breeze Publishing.
If you were to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No. Except I would have written it faster. I had too many distractions and kept getting sidetracked.
They say there's an app for everything, and there's now an app for you. Would you tell us a little about that?
Yes. I met Frank Danna from Onseeker Technologies at the Romantic Times Convention in Chicago in April and signed up with that company to develop an author app. With it, readers can pull up a list of all of my books complete with all prices and sales venues, blurbs, and excerpts. They can also connect with me via Twitter and Facebook straight from the app and access my blog feed. In addition, I can input any book signings and appearances to let them know where I'll be. What a great way to connect with people!
You blog about Castle (the TV show) - how did that come about?
I met Lee Lofland when he was an instructor at Forensic University in St. Louis in 2007 and have been using him as a resource for law enforcement info ever since. I've also attended his Writers' Police Academy for the past two years. He found out I'm a big Castle fan and asked me last year to blog about the relationship (romance) part of the show, while he critiques the police procedure. It's been fun. Lately, we've had a good cop-bad cop thing going on.
Who is your favorite author, and what really strikes you about their work?
I don't know that I have one favorite, but I do love Lisa Gardner, John Sanford, Karen Rose, Tess Gerritsen, and Robin Perrini. All write great suspense and/or thrillers, my favorite types of books.
Is there a single book or author that made you want to write?
Not really. I've always read, beginning when I was just a kid. My mom would take me to the library every week and let me check out stacks of books. We lived in a small town with a tiny library, and before long we had to order books from another library. I read everything I could get my hands on.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
They like it. My mother has read all of the books I have in print. She's 90 and doesn't understand ebooks, although I think she'd like them if given the chance. Once she has cataract surgery and can see better, I plan to introduce her to my Kindle Fire.
Do you have a favorite object pertinent to your writing? (Pen, coffee cup, pet, blanket, chair…?
Not an object, per se, but I love to write outside on my deck. I have less distractions out there and enjoy writing while listening to birds chirping with my cats sprawled out under my chair. Great creative mojo.
What do you love about your latest book?
Deliverance from Evil will be out June 1. In this story, Tessa Doucet chose to go into mortuary science because the dead can't hurt her. Then a monster from her past turns up on her embalming table, and she's forced to confront the demon she thought she'd put to rest. Puzzled by the case Tessa stirs up, Detective Cash Starkey finds himself falling for her, even though he swore to keep his distance. He doesn't want a relationship, especially not with a woman running from her past. Yet when Tessa's life is threatened, he runs into the fray, and together they defeat her demons and put the past behind them.
I enjoyed watching Tessa and Cash's story unfold. They had trouble learning to trust one another, but once they did their bond grew strong. Their relationship took a turn I didn't expect, but I love how it all worked out.
Do your fictional characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
I know their backgrounds before I start writing, but often learn their secrets as the stories unfold.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
Not whole personalities, but I do use little quirks and oddities I spot in people I meet. You've heard the old adage: Be careful what you do, because you might end up in my novel. That's true!
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Nick Marconi from Blood Rite, my March 2012 from Whiskey Creek Press, is my favorite character so far. And no, he's not modeled after anyone. He came straight out of my head. I wrote that book in six weeks. I don't know where it came from.
What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
I love writing action scenes the most.
How does it feel when you write?
I feel an urgency to get the words down. I have to type fast to keep up with the words flowing from my brain. When my characters start to talk, I have to write. And quickly.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in writing?
Finding enough time to write without distractions. Sometimes, life gets in the way.
What’s your favorite place you’ve visited?
I've done a fair amount of traveling and really loved New York City, the energy and complexity of the place, and I also love the Caymen Islands and London, England. Let's just say I love to see and explore new places of all kinds. I'd love to go back to those places and also explore more of the world, mainly Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil. One day, I hope to visit all of those places.
For more information about Melanie, go to:
Website: http://www.melanieatkins.com
Blog: http://melanieatkins.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://www.face-book.com/melanie.atkins
Twitter: http://twitter.com/melanie_atkins
Check out Melanie's brand new release:
Tessa Doucet chose to go into mortuary science because the dead can't hurt her.
Then a monster from her past turns up on her embalming table, and she's forced
to confront the demon she thought she'd put to rest. Flummoxed by the case Tessa
stirs up, Detective Cash Starkey finds himself falling for her, even though he
swore to keep his distance. He doesn't want a relationship, especially not with
a woman running from her past. Yet when Tessa's life is threatened, he runs into
the fray, not away from it, and together they defeat her demons and put the past
behind them.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Today, I am delighted to welcome Gail Delaney to the blog. She'll even share an excerpt from her brand new book! Gail has been actively writing 'for publication' since 1996. The first novel she ever wrote is still sitting on her computer, waiting for the major rewrite that will make it acceptable. She says she has learned a great deal since writing that book, and it shows when she looks back at that rough draft.
Gail has had several novels published in the genres of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and futuristic romance. Her novels have received several nominations and awards since she was first published in 2005.
Gail and her family recently moved from the cold and blustery east coast to Southern California, and is loving every moment of sunshine she can soak in -- without risking a sun burn.
Gail R. Delaney, science fiction writer extraordinaire!
Welcome, Gail! Please tell us your latest news!
After far too long of a hiatus, I am exceptionally excited to announce the sequel to The Phoenix Rebellion is finally released. Phoenix Rising Book One: Janus is the first in a four book series that picks up about a year after the end of The Phoenix Rebellion, and there are a lot of familiar characters along with some new heroes and heroines fighting for the survival of Mankind.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
I have an exceptionally supportive family, both blood and extended. My father was my biggest fan, and always introduced me as "This is my daughter. She's an author." My in-laws have always been very supportive and proud of me. My mother-in-law has read most of my books, and my husband has read most of them, too. I am so lucky to have such a supportive family.
What do you love about your latest book?
I love the uniqueness of the characters. They are like no hero and heroine I've ever written, and while it was definitely a challenge, I loved it. I loved being able to return to old friends and catch up. That's why I like writing series. You don't have to let go so soon.
Do your fictional characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
Oh, completely on their own. I had a general starting point, but things went down in this book completely differently than I planned, anticipated, or even imagined when I started. I usually have a good idea of their past, although even then sometimes I 'learn' things as I go; but, I try to allow them to develop organically as I write. Whenever I try to force certain scenarios or manipulate events to incur a certain reaction from my characters, it always reads as contrived, so I have to let events -- and their reactions -- unfold naturally.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
Never in whole, no. Sometimes my characters have certain traits or quirks I attribute to someone I know, but I've never fully modeled a character after someone point for point. For instance, Michael Tanner of the Phoenix books has an abiding love for breakfast. Once you know his history, you know better why, but overall he just enjoys food. He enjoys eating, but especially breakfast. Pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon... especially bacon... fruit. Whatever. This I took from my son, who was only about 7 or 8 when I wrote the first Phoenix books. Even then, his love for breakfast was immense. Still is.
I've seen a bit of a lot of people I know slip into my characters. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. To me, things like that make them human.
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Funny that I talked about Michael Tanner in the previous answer, because he is by far my favorite; there is Michael, and then there's everyone else. :-)
Michael was modeled after an actor for the sake of appearance, but his personality and his actions are his own because he is so unique and comes from a situation so far removed from anything we could know he couldn't be modeled in word and deed after anyone. For the sake of appearance, he is a young Richard Dean Anderson (think MacGyver years).
But it is his soul that makes him unique. Michael is a study in contrast. In some ways, he has aged far beyond his years for the experiences he has survived and the losses he has known. And yet, he is also very pure and naïve. Untainted in his views of the world. He loves with his entire soul, not just the woman he loves but his family, his friends, his child.
Michael is a challenge to write because his life experiences have affected him in ways I could never imagine surviving, but he is also liberating to write.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I have been writing since I learned how. I used to write poems and songs and short little stories when I was a kid. In fourth grade, my best friend and I wrote stories about women superheroes rather than playing with games or toys. I wrote a fantasy novel when I was in high school.
But when did I know I was a writer? Winter 1995.
My mother passed away in October, and I was helping my father gather her things and go through papers. While doing this, I found a metal file box. In this box was everything -- and I mean everything -- I had ever written. Every scratched out poem, every draft of every story I'd done. Every school paper I was published in. I realized that day my mother had seen in me something I hadn't accepted yet myself.
I was a writer.
In January 1996, I began writing my first book for the purpose of seeking publication. That book has never been published because I didn't know a single thing about writing when I wrote it, but I intend to edit it one day to get it published. But that book led to another book, that I did have published. And another. And another.
Anything else you want to share?
If anyone would like a free prequel short story to the entire Phoenix series (it falls specifically before The Phoenix Rebellion, but would serve as a great introduction overall), they can email me at gail@gaildelaney.com and I'd be happy to share.
Janus Blurb
It's been a year since Humanity rose up against their alien oppressors and took back Earth from the Sorracchi. The war left Earth devastated, crippled, but not beaten. Under the leadership of President Nick Tanner and in collaboration with their new Areth and Umani allies, the Earth seeks stable ground again.
John Smith of the Areth was a soldier before his queen asked him to serve as ambassador to Earth, and he is out of his element. Restricted in his position from carrying a weapon, he has no way of defensing himself or his adopted son when the Xenos -- a group of Humans wishing to purge the Earth of all alien influence -- decide they want him dead.
Jenifer is a soldier for hire, and answers to no one but her own common sense. She first refused the "job" of serving as John's bodyguard, but a glimpse at the heart of the man convinces her to accept the responsibility.
John has two faces: a soldier and an ambassador of peace. Jenifer has two faces: the steel-skinned warrior and the forgotten person she once was. Too many people hide behind masks, and it's those hiding who want John dead.
Excerpt
He stood at the bank of large windows facing out onto the city, his back to her. Standing in the darkness with the moonlight the only source of light, Jenifer had to admit Ambassador Smith had certain attributes most women would find attractive.
It was obvious he hadn't thought about being prepared to make a quick escape when he left his bedroom. He wore only a pair of loose fitting pull-on pants hung low on his hips. They were a rich blue color, and by the sheen on the material, possibly some type of silk or similar fabric. His feet were bare, and he wore no shirt, leaving his back exposed. He stood completely still with his arms crossed and his head bowed, pulling the muscles along his back and shoulders tight enough she easily saw the definition.
Okay, so not half bad. He was obviously fit, so he probably wouldn't be a total waste in a fight. But if someone else didn't kill him, she was seriously considering it.
"Did you need somethin'?" he asked, his clipped tone barely carrying across the room. He never raised his head, never moved.
"Yeah," she said, crossing the space. "I need you to not be so damn stupid."
He raised his head slowly, unfolding his arms to rub his palms over his face, sniffing softly before he turned his attention to her. "Excuse me?"
"I said I'd really like it if you wouldn't be so damn stupid, Ambassador." She took the security core from her belt, snapped one of the electrodes from the back and slapped it unapologetically against his chest over his heart. The core interface immediately came to life, several graphs recording the various biorhythmic information she needed for the globes.
"What the hell are you doin'?" he ground out, reaching for the electrode, but she shoved his hand away.
"What President Tanner hired me to do, keep your ass alive. But if you're going to make it harder for me, I'll quit in the morning." She pulled a stylus device from the side of the core and grabbed his hand, jabbing a finger with the tip. "You know, I heard you were a soldier back on Aretu, so I thought you'd have enough sense not to stand in front of an exposed window."
He looked from her to the window, either oblivious to or indifferent to the fact she held his hand, squeezing several drops of blood from his finger into the stylus tube. The core twittered in acknowledgement of the data.
"I wasn't--"
"Thinking? Obviously." Finished with retrieving the data she needed, she snapped the stylus back into place and gripped the edge of the pad on his chest. Jenifer contemplated just ripping the pad free without at least pulling the skin taut to ease the removal, but in the end she remembered she hated ripping off bandages just as much as anyone else. She laid her hand against his warm skin, bracing it slightly before gripping the electrode edge and yanking hard.
"Bloody hell!"
"It'll hurt a hell of a lot more if you get hit with a long range pulse blast." She eyed up the window and the surrounding cityscape, as much as she could call the broken horizon a city. "I wouldn't be surprised if these Xenos went retro and took a shot at you with one of those old time projectile guns. Messy, but they'd cut through this glass like butter."
She half expected him to scramble back from the windows, but he didn't. He just looked out again.
Thank you for coming over, and for sharing an excerpt of your book. It's been a true pleasure to have you here!
If you want to see more of Gail, visit her website: http://www.gaildelaney.com
Like her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGailRDelaney
Check out Janus on Amazon: http://amzn.com/B0084UWKTW
Gail has had several novels published in the genres of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and futuristic romance. Her novels have received several nominations and awards since she was first published in 2005.
Gail and her family recently moved from the cold and blustery east coast to Southern California, and is loving every moment of sunshine she can soak in -- without risking a sun burn.
Gail R. Delaney, science fiction writer extraordinaire!
Welcome, Gail! Please tell us your latest news!
After far too long of a hiatus, I am exceptionally excited to announce the sequel to The Phoenix Rebellion is finally released. Phoenix Rising Book One: Janus is the first in a four book series that picks up about a year after the end of The Phoenix Rebellion, and there are a lot of familiar characters along with some new heroes and heroines fighting for the survival of Mankind.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
I have an exceptionally supportive family, both blood and extended. My father was my biggest fan, and always introduced me as "This is my daughter. She's an author." My in-laws have always been very supportive and proud of me. My mother-in-law has read most of my books, and my husband has read most of them, too. I am so lucky to have such a supportive family.
What do you love about your latest book?
I love the uniqueness of the characters. They are like no hero and heroine I've ever written, and while it was definitely a challenge, I loved it. I loved being able to return to old friends and catch up. That's why I like writing series. You don't have to let go so soon.
Do your fictional characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
Oh, completely on their own. I had a general starting point, but things went down in this book completely differently than I planned, anticipated, or even imagined when I started. I usually have a good idea of their past, although even then sometimes I 'learn' things as I go; but, I try to allow them to develop organically as I write. Whenever I try to force certain scenarios or manipulate events to incur a certain reaction from my characters, it always reads as contrived, so I have to let events -- and their reactions -- unfold naturally.
Do you base any of your characters personalities off people you know, and if so, do you tell them?
Never in whole, no. Sometimes my characters have certain traits or quirks I attribute to someone I know, but I've never fully modeled a character after someone point for point. For instance, Michael Tanner of the Phoenix books has an abiding love for breakfast. Once you know his history, you know better why, but overall he just enjoys food. He enjoys eating, but especially breakfast. Pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon... especially bacon... fruit. Whatever. This I took from my son, who was only about 7 or 8 when I wrote the first Phoenix books. Even then, his love for breakfast was immense. Still is.
I've seen a bit of a lot of people I know slip into my characters. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. To me, things like that make them human.
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Funny that I talked about Michael Tanner in the previous answer, because he is by far my favorite; there is Michael, and then there's everyone else. :-)
Michael was modeled after an actor for the sake of appearance, but his personality and his actions are his own because he is so unique and comes from a situation so far removed from anything we could know he couldn't be modeled in word and deed after anyone. For the sake of appearance, he is a young Richard Dean Anderson (think MacGyver years).
But it is his soul that makes him unique. Michael is a study in contrast. In some ways, he has aged far beyond his years for the experiences he has survived and the losses he has known. And yet, he is also very pure and naïve. Untainted in his views of the world. He loves with his entire soul, not just the woman he loves but his family, his friends, his child.
Michael is a challenge to write because his life experiences have affected him in ways I could never imagine surviving, but he is also liberating to write.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I have been writing since I learned how. I used to write poems and songs and short little stories when I was a kid. In fourth grade, my best friend and I wrote stories about women superheroes rather than playing with games or toys. I wrote a fantasy novel when I was in high school.
But when did I know I was a writer? Winter 1995.
My mother passed away in October, and I was helping my father gather her things and go through papers. While doing this, I found a metal file box. In this box was everything -- and I mean everything -- I had ever written. Every scratched out poem, every draft of every story I'd done. Every school paper I was published in. I realized that day my mother had seen in me something I hadn't accepted yet myself.
I was a writer.
In January 1996, I began writing my first book for the purpose of seeking publication. That book has never been published because I didn't know a single thing about writing when I wrote it, but I intend to edit it one day to get it published. But that book led to another book, that I did have published. And another. And another.
Anything else you want to share?
If anyone would like a free prequel short story to the entire Phoenix series (it falls specifically before The Phoenix Rebellion, but would serve as a great introduction overall), they can email me at gail@gaildelaney.com and I'd be happy to share.
Janus Blurb
It's been a year since Humanity rose up against their alien oppressors and took back Earth from the Sorracchi. The war left Earth devastated, crippled, but not beaten. Under the leadership of President Nick Tanner and in collaboration with their new Areth and Umani allies, the Earth seeks stable ground again.
John Smith of the Areth was a soldier before his queen asked him to serve as ambassador to Earth, and he is out of his element. Restricted in his position from carrying a weapon, he has no way of defensing himself or his adopted son when the Xenos -- a group of Humans wishing to purge the Earth of all alien influence -- decide they want him dead.
Jenifer is a soldier for hire, and answers to no one but her own common sense. She first refused the "job" of serving as John's bodyguard, but a glimpse at the heart of the man convinces her to accept the responsibility.
John has two faces: a soldier and an ambassador of peace. Jenifer has two faces: the steel-skinned warrior and the forgotten person she once was. Too many people hide behind masks, and it's those hiding who want John dead.
Excerpt
He stood at the bank of large windows facing out onto the city, his back to her. Standing in the darkness with the moonlight the only source of light, Jenifer had to admit Ambassador Smith had certain attributes most women would find attractive.
It was obvious he hadn't thought about being prepared to make a quick escape when he left his bedroom. He wore only a pair of loose fitting pull-on pants hung low on his hips. They were a rich blue color, and by the sheen on the material, possibly some type of silk or similar fabric. His feet were bare, and he wore no shirt, leaving his back exposed. He stood completely still with his arms crossed and his head bowed, pulling the muscles along his back and shoulders tight enough she easily saw the definition.
Okay, so not half bad. He was obviously fit, so he probably wouldn't be a total waste in a fight. But if someone else didn't kill him, she was seriously considering it.
"Did you need somethin'?" he asked, his clipped tone barely carrying across the room. He never raised his head, never moved.
"Yeah," she said, crossing the space. "I need you to not be so damn stupid."
He raised his head slowly, unfolding his arms to rub his palms over his face, sniffing softly before he turned his attention to her. "Excuse me?"
"I said I'd really like it if you wouldn't be so damn stupid, Ambassador." She took the security core from her belt, snapped one of the electrodes from the back and slapped it unapologetically against his chest over his heart. The core interface immediately came to life, several graphs recording the various biorhythmic information she needed for the globes.
"What the hell are you doin'?" he ground out, reaching for the electrode, but she shoved his hand away.
"What President Tanner hired me to do, keep your ass alive. But if you're going to make it harder for me, I'll quit in the morning." She pulled a stylus device from the side of the core and grabbed his hand, jabbing a finger with the tip. "You know, I heard you were a soldier back on Aretu, so I thought you'd have enough sense not to stand in front of an exposed window."
He looked from her to the window, either oblivious to or indifferent to the fact she held his hand, squeezing several drops of blood from his finger into the stylus tube. The core twittered in acknowledgement of the data.
"I wasn't--"
"Thinking? Obviously." Finished with retrieving the data she needed, she snapped the stylus back into place and gripped the edge of the pad on his chest. Jenifer contemplated just ripping the pad free without at least pulling the skin taut to ease the removal, but in the end she remembered she hated ripping off bandages just as much as anyone else. She laid her hand against his warm skin, bracing it slightly before gripping the electrode edge and yanking hard.
"Bloody hell!"
"It'll hurt a hell of a lot more if you get hit with a long range pulse blast." She eyed up the window and the surrounding cityscape, as much as she could call the broken horizon a city. "I wouldn't be surprised if these Xenos went retro and took a shot at you with one of those old time projectile guns. Messy, but they'd cut through this glass like butter."
She half expected him to scramble back from the windows, but he didn't. He just looked out again.
Thank you for coming over, and for sharing an excerpt of your book. It's been a true pleasure to have you here!
If you want to see more of Gail, visit her website: http://www.gaildelaney.com
Like her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGailRDelaney
Check out Janus on Amazon: http://amzn.com/B0084UWKTW
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Interview with Shirley Connolly
Like historical romance? I have only read a few myself, but I do think today's guest might change that.
Shirley Connolly, coffee loving author who writes from the heart.
Finishing up my 2nd book in the Decisions Series. It’s called More Than a Ruby and it will be out in October.
Hope many of you got to enjoy Book 1 SAY GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY and another of my earlier books, FLAME FROM WITHIN.
It’s all in the family, so it’s great to now see what is happening to my Jordan ladies and in my earlier books, from the Jordan men.
If you were to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Since I’m still working on it, it is changing in front of me EVERYDAY! :-)
Who is your favorite author, and what really strikes you about their work?
I have several. Love Francine Rivers and her precise writing in Redeeming Love and the detail work she created in her Mark of the Lion trilogy a while back.
Love reading Tamera Alexander’s books.
On the secular side, I really have fun reading Julia Quinn and Loretta Chase is an excellent writer too. I also enjoy Susan Wiggs’ historical work.
Mostly, I just get a hold of any Historical Romance I can find, and devour them one by one.
Is there a single book or author that made you want to write?
Kathleen E Woodiwiss when she started doing historical romance decades ago. It was her first book The Flame and the Flower which grabbed me. Then her Ashes in the Wind which excited me about writing about the War between the South and what gave me the inspiration for my Flame from Within book.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Probably from my dad, who wrote short story mysteries and suspense during the 2nd World War. I was about eight years old when the interest grabbed my heart. It never left.
How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
My husband doesn’t read my books but he gets to hear about them. All my kids read them though.
My sisters read them but since they are inspirational, I’m not sure if my sisters enjoy them as much as they might a secular story. You just never know. I try to make my stories apply to EVERYONE like writers did in the past (Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Victoria Holt) All their books had an element of inspiration in them but met the needs of all at the same time.
You can add those to my favorite authors although they are from the past.
Do you have a favorite object pertinent to your writing? (Pen, coffee cup, pet, blanket, chair…?
COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE
Haha, I can relate to that one. What do you love about your latest book?If you are talking about Say Goodbye to Yesterday, which has been out for a bit, I love that the story, though written for the 1870s was very true to life and spoke about taboo things that were happening back then but were seldom spoke of openly. I made sure there was a message to be drawn from what my characters went through. I think I was able to do that.
What is your favorite review of your book?
The one that can be found at Romance Studio and also from Reviews by Molly (who does reviews for The Romance Reader as well)
They were both a real blessing to me.
Also one that came in from Delia Latham, another author. She really saw the message of the book and wrote of it in a way that hit the nail on the head.
Most of these reviews and others can be found right in Amazon with my book.
Tell us about your all-time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
I have no favorites, not yet. But they all delve just a little bit into the true character of someone in my past or possibly present. I stay careful, though, not to go too far with that.
What type of scene do you enjoy writing the most?
I mostly enjoy writing dialogue to make my characters come alive. How they spoke back in the 1800s is so different from today. I love to draw emphasis to that I think.
How does it feel when you write?
Sometimes frustrating, but most of the time very fulfilling to me. It is part of me. Except for the love of my family, my husband, and God, and my friendships with my pets and my chickens, and my greenhouse, and redesigning my rooms (all these things so much a part of me), writing is me. It will always be me. And I will do it until I no longer have hands and a pen and a keyboard to do it with.
What’s your favorite place you’ve visited? Do you have a “must see” destination on your bucket list?
Loved seeing Ireland.
Loved going to Washington, DC and seeing history come alive.
Loved living in New York and working at West Point, United States Military Academy.
I just love it all over.
Anything else you want to share?
Just a hearty thank you, Maria, for the interview.
Hoping you’ll get a chance to read my books. I think people get to know me best when they read my stories.
If you have already read my other books and my devotional series, be watching for More Than a Ruby.
Thank you so much for coming over, Shirley! I loved learning more about you, and I'll keep my eyes open for More than a Ruby. :-)
Check out Shirley's website: http://shirleykigerconnolly.com
Read Shirley's blog: http://apenforyourthoughts.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Welcome, Stephenia McGee!
A few days ago, Stephenia McGee's new book, "A Legacy of Lies" was featured on the blog. The excerpt fascinated me, and I asked Stephenia to come back for an interview. Luckily, she agreed! =D
Stephenia McGee, Writer with degree in Animal Science!
Welcome Stephenia! I am delighted to see you here! I'm curious, how does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
My husband is a huge support. He is the one that gently (and sometimes not so gently) pushed me to follow my dream of writing a book. He has gone to writer’s conferences with me, and he is always the first person I bounce ideas off of. He is also my first editor, and reads through my first drafts helping me see when things don’t make sense or flow right. He has also become somewhat of a marketing director as well! He took it upon himself to find a few people to do reviews and write about my book in print magazines that will be coming out in the next few months.
What is your favorite review of your book?
My favorite review I have gotten so far is from author Patty Froese. She put it in a category I had never considered, but I loved it. She really seemed to get it. Here’s her review:
When I first started reading this novel, I fired off an email to the author (an online friend) and told her that this was a fantastic book. And I was serious. She starts with a murky mystery and it doesn’t let up until the very end. In fact, as I read the last few pages, I realized what this book was: this is an Inspirational Gothic novel. Think Castle of Otranto and The Turn of the Screw in a cowboy romance. Fan-TAS-tic.
The story follows Jim, a ranch hand with a history he refuses to discuss, Sarah, a frustrated student sinking in debt, Jonathan, a billionaire with a heart of steel and Elizabeth, a lost soul who can’t seem to remember who she is or why she keeps coming back to a strange little shop that is always open in the middle of New York City. They are all linked in one tragic tale of love, rejection, redemption and supernatural intervention.
This book has it all: a nice quick plot, a massive castle, cowboys, a dark mystery, a cold seductress and a story that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished the book. If you’re looking for one good read, I definitely recommend this book.
Would you share with us what inspired you to write this kind of story?
My husband and I were killing time on the two hour drive from our college to his parent’s house. We were talking about how I’d always loved to write and throwing around story ideas. We actually started with a man in hospital room and the preacher who comes to hear his final confession. That prologue no longer exists, but the entire story stems from his confession.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I wrote my first story from a first grade spelling list. Then I wrote a children’s story from a pig’s perspective coming to America on the Mayflower. A short story project in high school turned into several chapters. So, I guess it’s always been there. Like I talked about earlier, my husband was talking to me about how I liked to write and all these story ideas I had while we were traveling one day. I really started working on my first book then. I played with it, but it was just a hobby. Then he took me to a writer’s conference when I finished my first manuscript (oh how awful it was!) and I really started to let the dream bloom. It wasn’t what I had always said I was going to do. I intended to go to Vet school, and I have a degree in animal science, but this was something that just wouldn’t let go of me. Then, my mom brought me an old notebook that she had kept with all those stories I had written growing up. When I looked at it, it hit me. Before any plans, before any expectations, before anything else, writing is what I did. It was something God put in my heart from the very beginning; I had just buried it under everything else. It was then that I made a commitment to making it my career to be a novelist, and I haven’t looked back!
Anything else you want to share?
If it’s okay, I’d love to share a little about Spirit Horse Ministries. We are still trying to start-up, but now that we have official 501(C)3 status and are a Mississippi non-profit organization, we are starting to get things rolling. SHM is designed to create a “hometown” for foster children, especially those that are older and are looking at leaving the system and entering a world where they are alone. We want to create a type of “Mayberry” for them. A place to come home too. We will also have afterschool and summer programs that focus on not only foster but handicap, at risk and underprivileged children as well. They will work with therapeutic horses, go fishing and learn important life skills like cooking and how to balance a checkbook. It’s a big dream. We are opening a country store to help raise funds by selling homemade and donated country items, and should have some day programs running this summer. We’ve been super busy, so our website is a little out of date, but if you want to know more you can go to www.spirithorseministries.org for more info. A portion of all my book sales goes to help the ministry.
Website: www.StepheniaMcGee.com
Facebook: www.facebook/StepheniaHMcGee
Twitter: www.twitter.com/StepheniaHMcGee
Stephenia McGee, Writer with degree in Animal Science!
Welcome Stephenia! I am delighted to see you here! I'm curious, how does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?
My husband is a huge support. He is the one that gently (and sometimes not so gently) pushed me to follow my dream of writing a book. He has gone to writer’s conferences with me, and he is always the first person I bounce ideas off of. He is also my first editor, and reads through my first drafts helping me see when things don’t make sense or flow right. He has also become somewhat of a marketing director as well! He took it upon himself to find a few people to do reviews and write about my book in print magazines that will be coming out in the next few months.What is your favorite review of your book?
My favorite review I have gotten so far is from author Patty Froese. She put it in a category I had never considered, but I loved it. She really seemed to get it. Here’s her review:
When I first started reading this novel, I fired off an email to the author (an online friend) and told her that this was a fantastic book. And I was serious. She starts with a murky mystery and it doesn’t let up until the very end. In fact, as I read the last few pages, I realized what this book was: this is an Inspirational Gothic novel. Think Castle of Otranto and The Turn of the Screw in a cowboy romance. Fan-TAS-tic.
The story follows Jim, a ranch hand with a history he refuses to discuss, Sarah, a frustrated student sinking in debt, Jonathan, a billionaire with a heart of steel and Elizabeth, a lost soul who can’t seem to remember who she is or why she keeps coming back to a strange little shop that is always open in the middle of New York City. They are all linked in one tragic tale of love, rejection, redemption and supernatural intervention.
This book has it all: a nice quick plot, a massive castle, cowboys, a dark mystery, a cold seductress and a story that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished the book. If you’re looking for one good read, I definitely recommend this book.
Would you share with us what inspired you to write this kind of story?
My husband and I were killing time on the two hour drive from our college to his parent’s house. We were talking about how I’d always loved to write and throwing around story ideas. We actually started with a man in hospital room and the preacher who comes to hear his final confession. That prologue no longer exists, but the entire story stems from his confession.
When did you discover you are a writer? Was there a specific catalyst?
I wrote my first story from a first grade spelling list. Then I wrote a children’s story from a pig’s perspective coming to America on the Mayflower. A short story project in high school turned into several chapters. So, I guess it’s always been there. Like I talked about earlier, my husband was talking to me about how I liked to write and all these story ideas I had while we were traveling one day. I really started working on my first book then. I played with it, but it was just a hobby. Then he took me to a writer’s conference when I finished my first manuscript (oh how awful it was!) and I really started to let the dream bloom. It wasn’t what I had always said I was going to do. I intended to go to Vet school, and I have a degree in animal science, but this was something that just wouldn’t let go of me. Then, my mom brought me an old notebook that she had kept with all those stories I had written growing up. When I looked at it, it hit me. Before any plans, before any expectations, before anything else, writing is what I did. It was something God put in my heart from the very beginning; I had just buried it under everything else. It was then that I made a commitment to making it my career to be a novelist, and I haven’t looked back!
Anything else you want to share?
If it’s okay, I’d love to share a little about Spirit Horse Ministries. We are still trying to start-up, but now that we have official 501(C)3 status and are a Mississippi non-profit organization, we are starting to get things rolling. SHM is designed to create a “hometown” for foster children, especially those that are older and are looking at leaving the system and entering a world where they are alone. We want to create a type of “Mayberry” for them. A place to come home too. We will also have afterschool and summer programs that focus on not only foster but handicap, at risk and underprivileged children as well. They will work with therapeutic horses, go fishing and learn important life skills like cooking and how to balance a checkbook. It’s a big dream. We are opening a country store to help raise funds by selling homemade and donated country items, and should have some day programs running this summer. We’ve been super busy, so our website is a little out of date, but if you want to know more you can go to www.spirithorseministries.org for more info. A portion of all my book sales goes to help the ministry.
Website: www.StepheniaMcGee.com
Facebook: www.facebook/StepheniaHMcGee
Twitter: www.twitter.com/StepheniaHMcGee
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Interview with Jillian Chantal
Very exciting day today - welcoming talented Jillian Chantal to the blog. Her new book comes out April 15, and is definitely something to keep eyes open for!
Jillian Chantal, romance with international flair
Please tell us your latest news!
My newest book from Desert Breeze Publishing comes out April 15, 2012. It's Book One of The Gambler's Inheritance series and is called The Gambler. So, when you're bemoaning that it's tax day, you can escape with a mystery/romance novel.
What do you love about your latest book?
I love the fact that my heroine is psychic and has her visions in an odd way. She's not your run of the mill psychic. I also realized about half way through the book that I was writing a variation on the Cinderella theme. Being a pantser, that came as a surprise.
Can you tell us something behind-the-scenes about this book that readers would love to hear - something not easily found on your website?
I flew out to California and spent two days and nights on the Queen Mary in order to research the story. I took the ghost tour as well as the behind the scenes tour. I hope it makes the book feel authentic and pulls the reader into the scenes in a good way.
Do your fictional characters develop on their own, or do you have their lives planned out in advance?
Oh, on their own, for sure. Part of the joy of writing for me is the adventure of the first draft. I start with a basic premise and it grows organically from there. Such fun for me!
Would you share with us what inspired you to write the story?
I love the early Twentieth Century and am a huge history buff of all the different ages and eras. I just adore reading and studying about things that happened in the past. This book came from my fascination about the older ocean liners. I also have another novel out with Desert Breeze Publishing, called Redemption for the Devil which takes place in 1920 and is on the Mauretania.
Living on the Gulf of Mexico makes me a water person and so, my fascination with oceans and history made me want to write these kind of stories.
What's your favorite place you've visited? Do you have a "must see" destination on your bucket list?
I love the British Isles. I base a lot of my stories there or have characters from England, Scotland, or Ireland. I haven't written a Welshman yet, but want to.
Is there something funny about you people don't know?
I am a roller coaster nut. I love, love, love to ride them. It is so much fun to go backwards, loop around, fly up and down hills and just plain have fun with them. The weird thing about it is that I can ride them all day long and not get sick, but put me in one of those movie theaters that have the 360 degree screen and I get so nauseated that I think I'm going to die. I got so sick at the Oh Canada show in EPCOT, I had to go outside and vomit. Crazy, huh?
Anything else you want to share?
I hope that anyone who reads this story enjoys it. I had a blast writing it and figuring out the whodunit myself! LOL! Thanks for having me come in. I enjoyed the questions. They were fun and well thought out.
For more information, visit Jillian at:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)