Saturday, December 31, 2011

Happy New Years!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. Normally I'm on schedule with the posts, but I've been buried between work and edits. And of course now I'm sick with some wonderful stomach bug.

But, I wanted to be sure to wish everyone a wonderful Happy New Year! Be safe and have lots of fun.

My New Year's resolution: To attempt to manage my time better than this year. To complete and publish at least two books. To be more healthy.

What's your New Year's resolution?


AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date January 25th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

New Release Date

 Remember when I said how easy the edits had been for The Swan Cove Murders, and with any luck, it would be the same with Secrets of Jenkins Bridge? And that I'd probably regret saying that?

Well, here I am eating crow. Lots of edits and not just grammar usage etc. Nope, total rearrangements, deletions, and additions. Now I can honestly say that edits are no picnic. And I know my editor is only helping to make Secrets of Jenkins Bridge the absolute best that it can be.

There is just no way in Hades I'll ever make my deadline to have the book released December 28th. Not with the holidays and a full time job (not to mention the kids and grandkids). So, we've decided to push the release date out to January 25th. That'll be an extra special day for me as it's my birthday:)

I still plan on a nice little package giveaway on that day: a t-shirt, a mug, a postcard, a magnet, and a keychain all bearing Secrets of Jenkins Bridge book cover!! So be sure to mark your calendars.

As for The Swan Cove Murders, if you haven't picked up your copy, it's available at Soul Mate Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble. Here's an excerpt:

 The door slowly opened, and she slid through the slim opening. The purple smudges under her beautiful hazel eyes spoke volumes to him, crushing his heart. Be strong.
 
  “What do you want? The sheriff already delivered the papers.” The glare radiating from her hazel eyes spoke of wanting to set him on fire, burning him alive. She’d been crying.
 
  “I know.”
 
  She crossed her arms over her chest. “Well, you also know Earl left me the house.”
 
  “A small technicality which will be fixed the day after tomorrow in court.”
 
  She sighed. “Then what do you want today of all days?”
 
  “I would like to get into my attic.” When she didn’t answer, he smiled. “Please.”
 
  Suspicion crept into the fiery gaze. “Why should I let you?”
 
  “I have a key. I can come and go anytime I please.” Vixen. “I thought I’d be nice and ask, before forcing my way in.”
 
  “You certainly aren’t winning me over.”
 
  He put his hands together as if in prayer. “Please. I just need the trunk.” His and Earl’s trunk. After the funeral, Lena had insisted Nicholas take the treasure trove with him, but the memories inside had been too much to handle at the time.
 
  Her swollen eyes softened a little. “Well...” She pushed open the door and waved him in.   
 
  He made his way through the foyer, pausing when he spotted the family photos hanging on the wall. “I see you haven’t changed anything.” He hadn’t been inside the house since Earl’s death.
 
  “Why would I?”
 
  His eyes caught the flower arrangement on the side table near the staircase along with the card sticking up in the middle. “Secret admirer?”
 
  Her face flushed. “How about none of your business? Do you want time with the trunk or what?”

AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date January 25th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Friday, December 16, 2011

Deja Vu Blogfest:!!!

  This is how the Deja Vu blogfest works. Simply sign-up at the Blog Sign up here.  Take the badge above and plaster it everywhere, blogging graffiti gone wild. The repost your favorite blog post or one that never received the exposure it should have.  Then hop from one blog to another.  Encouragement, enlightenment, knowledge, bared souls, stimulation, hilarity, insecurities, success stories!  All on display.  Discover some new blogs and rediscover some older ones. And have a blast!! Sign up here.

Here is my resurrected blog back from July. I couldn't pick 'the best one', so I picked one that was informative - one that may help someone attempting to write that hair-pulling, nerve-wrecking synopsis. And believe me, I am no expert. It still takes me forever to write one of these, kicking and screaming all the way.

 

 Synopsis Hell

I'm sorry I haven't posted in almost two weeks, but there have been a lot of little problems. And of course they all come at once. Life would simply be boring if it didn't happen that way. But, alas I'm back.

The title says it all. As I'm doing some final editing on The Doves Cove Murders (was Spirit Writer), I'm also beginning the vicious process of drafting my synopsis.

I have written a synopsis once before, and seeing as how that one at the very least got me a request of my full WIP-I must have done something right (I think). So I figured I'd post how I go about writing up a synopsis. This isn't going to work for everyone. I don't have the perfect formula for doing this.

It's all about condensing your story. (And it's a royal pain in the butt. Yet, when you have the finished product, it's well worth the effort!) The only way I can condense a 55K story into a two page synopsis (or whatever the requirements are for each publisher/editor/agent) is to do it in baby steps.

'So, I'll have to rewrite this darn thing several times?' you say? You bet you will. All I do is take each scene and write one sentence describing what's going on. Can't do just one? That's fine. Do two sentences, but no more than that or you'll be in editing hell instead. (Keep in mind you'll have to take this and condense it even more!). Go through your entire story writing down these sentences.

Once you're done, you do NOT get to string the sentences together and call it a synopsis. Unless you are real good at doing this, please don't string them together just yet.

Now, set that all aside. Breathe. Enjoy the sun. Then, back to work. This step you can do first before going through your story and writing those sentences, but I prefer to do it after. The first paragraph is going to be the PUNCH! Or the hook. You need to hook them in to read your story. This is the log line-your entire story rolled into 25 to 30 words. LOL! I know-impossible! But, with a little work it is possible. I guess that's a bit intimidating. I look at it like the blurb for your story. That's easier to wrap my head around at least.

Once you have that polished, it's onto your sentences you set aside. Ugh! I know. Read through it once WITHOUT making any corrections. You'll be able to pick out the important key parts needed. On the second read through, grab your pen, pencil, marker, etc (I prefer a red pen) and cross out the unimportant parts. You need to have the key points of your story. Think of them as the cause and effect points of your story. You don't want secondary characters (unless they pertain to the main plot and then you don't usually use their names) or any subplots. Another way to think of this: ACTION, REACTION, DECISION. This leads up to the climax. Remember, you're not throwing these sentences together. You have to weave them so they flow naturally and logically. Same goes for your paragraphs.

Now comes the ending. DO NOT leave them hanging. Tell what happens at the end. This is where you have the crisis-the black moment-when everything appears as if it's all about to come tumbling down. And of course the resolution and HEA. Be sure you have all loose ends tied up at the end.

Done? Okay, again breathe. Enjoy the sun. Now, you have to polish this the same as you have polished your story. UGH! I know, but it has to be done, like it or not.

A couple of last tips:

1) Write in the present tense.

2) Pay attention to what the publisher/editor/agent's requirements are on the length of the synopsis.

3) Avoid the passive voice

4) BREATHE! And have fun writing it. You should be excited about your story and if that is in fact the case, it will show in your writing. :)



AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Cheryl Yeko is in the House Today With Her New Debut, Protecting Rose

Today, I have fellow SMP Author Cheryl Yeko in the house!! She's here to chat a little about herself, being an author, and her new debut, Protecting Rose, which was released yesterday. I say the book trailer a couple of days ago, and I must say it's awesome!!

Welcome Cheryl and congrats on your new release. Can you tell us a little about yourself?  Sure.  I’m happily married with 2 children and 3 grandchildren.  I love to read, write and play piano. 

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you?  After 25 years together, he still opens my car doors for me.  I love that!

Do you ever write in your PJ’s?  Always.  The more comfortable I am, the better I write.

What are your pet peeves? I still have to wrestle with my husband over the 2 degrees difference on the thermostat.  Ugg.

Cats or dogs?  Cats.  Dogs are too much work. 

White wine or red?  I like White wine.  German Rieslings being my favorite.

Coffee or tea?  Coffee.  I love coffee.  My children went together and bought me a coffee/espresso machine a few years ago, and now every weekend, my husband makes us a latte in the mornings.  I love that!

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream?  Vanilla.  Although my husband tells me that it's not actually a flavor.

What are 4 things you never leave home without?  My purse, my phone, my car keys and my Kindle.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Well, actually, I use both at the same time.  I purchased one of those desktop holders for your lap.  I write in bed with one of those funny pillow/arm things behind me and my laptop holder on my lap.  It's even has a drawer for my flash drive, and a spot for my mouse.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?  I would love to be able to write all day long, but I work during the day.  So, I do my writing in the evenings and on weekends.  Many nights I wake up around one and write until four or five before catching another hour or so of sleep.

If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you? Bruce Willis because he would just be a blast and keep thing interesting.  Brad Pitt because he's just so nice to look at and Sandra Bullock, because I would need a girlfriend to talk to.

An actor you have a crush on?  My most favorite actor ever was Patrick Swayze.  I'm still mourning his passing. 

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?  Honestly, since I started writing I've pretty much given up on TV and movies.  I can't remember the last movie I watched.

What made you decide to be an author?  My husband, Patrick, bought me a kindle a few years ago and I rediscovered my love of reading.  Within a few years I had over 500 books in my library.  Mostly Romance Suspense and Paranormal.  I decided I wanted to write one and spent the next year writing Protecting Rose.

How did you choose the genre you write in?  I have always love action/romance movies.  Bruce Willis being one of my favorites.  I visualized Bruce when I wrote the story.

Are you a punster or a plotter and why?  Totally a panster. 

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you?  Karen Rose is one of my favorites.  She writes the best bad guys.  I also love Alexander Ivy and her Guardians of Eternity series.

What is your all-time favorite book?  That is a tough question.  I don't have a favorite book, but I have favorite series.  J.R. Wards Black Dagger Brotherhood comes to mind.  Next to Romantic Suspense…I love Paranormal.  Protecting Rose is the first in a series of three.  When I'm done with those stories, I plan to write a paranormal story.  That is going to be fun.

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release? 
That's a funny story.  I was writing an explosion scene and I had written "the warehouse doors were blown open with a loud explosion…or something like that, can't quite remember the exact sentence.  One of my crit. partners said "aren't all explosions loud?" lol…she was so right.

So, I'm trying to think of a way to boost the scene when I was driving with my husband in his car one day and he picked up a voice mail from one of his buddies over the speaker phone.  His friend was telling him about the airshow he was at and he said, and I quote, "the planes flew over low enough to shake by balls!"

I loved it.  When I was finished laughing I wrote the following sentence:

"Multiple explosions rocked the air with enough force to shake his balls when the warehouse doors were blown open."

How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one?  Not much really.  The story just came pouring out.  The edits gave me more trouble.  I wrote the story and then learned the craft.  I learned that I had a lot of newbie mistakes in it, such as writing in a passive voice, head hopping…overused words and phrases, and such.  I had to go back and fix all of that.  It was time consuming, but didn't really change the story much, just made it a smoother read.

Where do you get your ideas from?  My muse. 

How did you choose your title?  I brainstormed with my daughter, Michelle.  My first idea was Guarding Rose, but my daughter and I kicked it around and came up with Protecting Rose. 

How do you cure writer’s block?  I step away from the story for a while and read a book.

Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer?  If I can do it, you can do it.  Don't ever give up!

What sacred advice have you been giving by another writer?  The best advice I ever received was to join a critique group.  I have learned much from my crit. partners.  They are a wonderful, supportive group of women. 

Where can your readers stalk you?



Tell us about your new release:

Release Date: December 14, 2011

Rescuing damsels in distress is all in a day's work for Detective, Nate Stone.  After saving a beautiful woman from a burning car and assassin’s bullet, he vows to protect her.  But the determined assassin always seems to be one step ahead of the game.  Suspecting a leak within his Department, Nate takes her and runs.  He soon discovers that the hardest part of the mission is resisting his desire for the woman who trusts him with her life.

She awakes in a hospital with no memory, only to discover that someone tried to kill her.  Her only chance to survive an assassin’s game of cat and mouse is the man who saved her and who has promised to protect her.  She may not know her past, but she knows her heart, and it longs for her protective warrior who ignites a passion in her she can't deny.

 Sounds like a great suspenseful read. Thank you Cheryl for coming over and visiting us.

If you want your copy of Protecting Rose, hop on over to Soul Mate Publishing here.


AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Meggan Connors is Visiting Me Today: Her New Release The Marker!!!

Today, I have fellow author Meggan Connors in the house. I'm pretty excited to hear all about Meggan and her new debut release, The Marker, out now at Soul Mate Publishing.

It’s so great to have you here to chat, Meggan! Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I'm a wife and a mom to two little kids, six and four. I'm also a speech pathologist, and I have a lot of preschoolers on my caseload. My secret talent? I can sing a mean "Twinkle, Twinkle."

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you?
I could go with the obvious, where my hubby asked me to marry him on a beach in Hawaii at sunset. But honestly, I think it was when I decided I was going to write a novel. I mentioned vaguely that I'd like to go to a certain conference (my first!), and he investigated it, signed me up, booked a hotel and flight, and arranged for a babysitter so he could go with me. All with no prompting from me. I never would have gone to that first conference if it hadn't been for him.

Do you ever write in your PJs?
Doesn't everyone?

What are your pet peeves?
They are too numerous and varied to list here! J

Cats or dogs?
Both

White wine or red?
Heavens, you want me to choose? That's so not fair!

Coffee or tea?
Coffee, absolutely. (This book is brought to you by Starbucks).

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream?
Chocolate, the darker the better. Mmm…. Chocolate.

What are 4 things you never leave home without?
Cell phone and purse (which always has a set of matchbox cars and crayons, but may or may not contain my wallet and my keys… Sigh)

Laptop or desktop for writing?
Laptop.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
I usually write between 8:00PM and midnight in my bed. Hence the PJs and the laptop.

If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you?
1.      Viggo Mortensen, because a girl's got to have something pretty to look at, if she has to be stuck on an island.
2.      Jon Stewart, because he's funny, and we'll need some quality entertainment.
3.      Cody Lundeen, the primitive survival expert. Not only will he keep me and the boys alive, but once I tire of Viggo and Jon, I'm sure he could figure out a way off the island. I also find it oddly endearing that he never wears shoes, though I don't know why. Granted, he'd have to agree to be my puppet, which, if you've watched the show Dual Survival, would never happen, but it's my fantasy and my deserted island, so…

           I do so enjoy being the puppet master. It's awesome.

An actor you have a crush on?
Oh, Viggo… (stares off dreamily into space)

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?
I recently watched Anonymous, and this former English major was in Lit geek nirvana.

What made you decide to be an author?
I've always told stories to myself to help me get to sleep. Before I went to graduate school, I used to write a lot, but once I finished my thesis and the professional articles I had to write after that, I stopped for a while. One day about two years ago, I woke up and told my husband, "You know, I think I'm going to write a romance novel." And so I did.

It was terrible. No, seriously. Terrible. But it was a start, and we all have to start somewhere. I still love that book, though.

How did you choose the genre you write in?
You mean, I have to choose? Rats! I write whatever strikes my fancy, though they are all set in the west. Right now, I'm so interested in western steampunks. They're not so different from the Victorian-era historicals I've been writing, I suppose.

Are you a pantser or a plotter and why?
Both. I tend to have a general arc that I follow. Typically, I will have three or four things carefully plotted out that have to happen. How the characters get there is up to them.

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you?
I can safely say that Johanna Lindsay, the author of the very first romance novel I ever read, definitely was an influence.

What is your all time favorite book?
I could never pick just one, but Trinity by Leon Uris makes me cry every time I read it. So does The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay. And the Lit geek in me loves Wuthering Heights and MacBeth (I know everyone else likes Hamlet, but I love MacBeth. Maybe it's the influence of all those Scottish historicals I read as a teenager). I really enjoyed Karen Moning's Faefever series, too.

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release?

I love this exchange:

He broke the kiss first, his breathing ragged. Beneath her fingers, his pulse drummed to the same mad beat as her own. He cupped her face in his big hands and said softly, “You’re a goddamn liar.”
“What?” she breathed.
He gave her a small, sad smile. “A woman doesn’t kiss a man like that unless she loves him…"


How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one?
Nicholas gave me some trouble. My early readers told me Nicholas was unsympathetic. I kept trying to make him sympathetic, but every time I did, he dug in his heels and refused to change. In some ways, he got even more reckless. So I entered The Marker into a contest and wound up winning my category. If Nicholas hadn't insisted that he stay the same, I doubt that would have happened.

Where do you get your ideas from?
Beats me. The ideas show up and I write them down. I've gotten ideas from looking at maps and from watching shows on food trucks. The ideas come from crazy things that wind up having nothing to do with the story that gets written.

How did you choose your title?
The title is a reference to my heroine. She is the marker her father bet in a card game.

How do you cure writer’s block?
I usually write something else. Or, if I'm stuck, I'll skip ahead and write the scene that's bugging me.

Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer?
Keep writing. Keep trying to improve your craft, and get to know other writers. And, for the love of all you consider holy, get a critique partner. I was late to the party on this one, but I can't even tell you how much having a CP has helped me with both my writing and my confidence.

What sacred advice have you been given by another writer?
I think the one thing piece of advice I was given that really struck a chord with me was advice I got from the first contest I ever entered. The judge said, "Write the scene from the point of view from the person who has the most to lose."

Now, each time I start a scene, I think, "Who has the most to lose, and why?" It's helped.

Where can your readers stalk you?
I would love to hear from readers! They can visit my website/blog at www.megganconnors.com. They can also like me or friend me on Facebook! I'll be having a contest soon with some giveaways coming soon, and Facebook is the way to get in touch with me to find out more details!

Tell us about your new release:

When her father loses her in a poker game, Lexie Markland is sent to work in the household of Nicholas Wetherby for one year to pay off the debt. Innocent but not naĆÆve, she is savvy enough to know she must maintain her distance from this man who frustrates her with his relentless teasing but whose kisses bring her to her knees. Because although she may be just another conquest to him, the marker he won at the card table, it’s not just her heart in jeopardy should she succumb to Nicholas’s considerable charms.
Since his brother’s death almost a year before, nothing has held Nicholas’s attention for long–not women, not booze, not even an excellent hand at cards. Nothing, that is, until he meets the woman he won in a drunken night of poker. Intrigued by his prize and her chilly reserve, he makes it his mission to crack Lexie’s cool demeanor. But even as passion explodes between them, the question remains: will Nicholas be able to take the ultimate risk… and gamble on love?


 Thank you Meggan for being here and sharing a little bit of yourself and your new release The Marker with us. Congratulations!!

You can purchase The Marker over at Soul Mate Publishing beginning today.





AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Friday, December 9, 2011

Winner of When Hearts Collide and I'm Over at Mare's Place Today :)

 Today, I'm over at Mare's Place discussing The Swan Cove Murders and my Christmas memories.

All this month as you can see by the pic on the left, Mare's Place is hosting one or two authors each day along with some great prizes.

So, don't miss your chance to win some freebies and meet some awesome authors and their new releases over at the Romance Countdown to 2012!!


And now onto the winner of When Hearts Collide from Kendra James: caseywyatt!!! Woot. Congrats Casey. Contact me at shieldsdonna@hotmail.com.


And that's pretty much all that's going on in my little corner of the world. Have a fabulous weekend all :)





AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

When Hearts Collida author Kendra James is in the House!!!!!!!!!

Woot!!! I have Kendra James in the house today for a great interview about herself, her writing, and her new debut, When Hearts Collide, which releases today over at Soul Mate Publishing. She is giving away a free copy to one lucky commenter here today :)

Welcome aboard, Kendra. I'm so excited to have you here today. Can you tell us a little about yourself? I’m a registered nurse who lives in London, Ontario with one dog and three cats. I’m retired from hospital nursing and an the nurse for a children residential treatment center. I love the three R’s, reading, writing, and horseback riding. As I don’t have my horse anymore, I have more time for the first two.

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you?
Tell me my dream of being published would come true.       

Do you ever write in your PJ’s?  Sometimes and sometimes if the muse is evasive I’ll put on my purple fairy T-shirt or my Tinker bell top.

What are your pet peeves? False advertising, telemarketers.

Cats or dogs? I love dogs, I only have one right now, a collie-cross named Tiff. I had two other dogs until a few months ago, Shoona, Tiff’s sister, and Mister, a Chihuahua with a heart problem.  
Cats love me. None of my three cats were picked by me. My white cat, Zeus, hid in my car in 1997 when I moved off the farm. She thinks she owns me. Jack, my lovely gray cat, I inherited when my daughter moved to Fort MacMurray.  Jinx, a tabby, also from my daughter was dropped off several years ago. She’s like the Eveready bunny. Well in her twenties, she just keeps on going. It becomes a contest as to who can monopolize my lap and try to help with my writing.

White wine or red?    A sweet white, or a strawberry Zinfandel

Coffee or tea?     Coffee please, double cream and sugar, or better yet, a large French vanilla cappuccino

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream? Chocolate of course, unless it’s French vanilla

What are 4 things you never leave home without?  A note pad, multiple pens, my ipad, and my lipstick.

Laptop or desktop for writing?  My MacBook.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?   After I fade for a bit in the evening, then rouse and write till one or two in the morning.

If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you? Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Pearce Bronson.

An actor you have a crush on?   Richard Gere

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?   Tower Heist
 
What made you decide to be an author?    I had no choice. I had to, had to, do it.

How did you choose the genre you write in?  I write in several genres. I don’t feel that a writer needs to be confined to any one genre. I wrote poetry since grade two, was published for a poem in grade three. I wrote a lot of poetry that I never showed anyone until later in life. When I broke my hand getting a horse on a trailer, I had time off from my nursing job and started writing children’s stories and a romance that still might get published. I love writing mystery and adding a touch of medical to it.

Are you a panster or a plotter and why?   Panster, but I am trying to become a dreaded plotter as I think my writing might and would definitely be more organized.

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you?  Oh, there are so many, Taylor Caldwell, Victoria Holt, Michael Palmer, Lee Child, Harlen Cobin, Jodi Picoult.

What is your all time favorite book?   Sacagewa. Anything by Taylor Caldwell or Jodi Picoult.

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release? 

            I liked my beginning before editing as I love doing anaphora.

            Molly Tanner is choosing flight over fight. She is choosing to run away and let someone else crusade for her. She is choosing to abandon her nursing career, her friends, her home. As she clutches the leather-wrapped steering wheel of her Cavalier, her grandmother's favorite saying echoes in her head. "No one ever said life was fair.”
            Well, wasn't that the truth. But is her choosing to flee, the right decision?
But with that cut, I guess I will go with:

            The silence was eerie—no child’s laughter, no dog barking, no male voice to send her heart hurtling out of control. No sound at all, just the hush of hollow spaces. She let the pillow absorb her tears.

How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one?  I related with Molly as I am a nurse but I think the most trouble was having her have had trouble in her nursing career without people thinking she was a bad person.

Where do you get your ideas from?  Everywhere. I just don’t have time to write all the books I want to.

How did you choose your title? Another thing that just came to me. The book starts off with Molly fleeing her home and her career. She misses hitting a deer but the oncoming Jaguar is not so lucky. The story evolves from the collision, so WHEN HEARTS COLLIDE, just seemed the perfect title.

How do you cure writer’s block? Do a wash, organize my writing area, have music in the background and if that doesn’t help, I go for a walk and hope the muse is there when I get back. But writing is really putting your butt in the chair and the hands to the keep board. Even if you write garbage, you are still better than a blank page.
Writing a poem to start off sometimes helps.

Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer?  Keep at it. Take courses, join writer’s groups. Test the waters by entering writing contests. The feedback can be priceless. My friend, Brian Henry, a writing workshop teacher, says it takes three things to be published, talent, luck and persistence and if you have even two of those you can be published.

What sacred advice have you been giving by another writer?  Write it, rewrite it, then get it out there.

Where can your readers stalk you? I have two websites, or I will have when my son finishes my websites. (Did I mention it’s not always a good idea to have family do these things. They don’t always have the same vision or urgency.)  My website for Kendra James (pen name for my romance writing), http://www.kendrajames.net/ is up and more will be added to it. My other website, http://www.bevirwin.com/, is still very much a work in progress. My son promises soon.



 Tell us about your new release:  WHEN HEARTS COLLIDE is a medical romance about a nurse, suspended from her nursing job, stops to assist at an accident scene. She is attracted to the semiconscious man but stunned when he asks her to care for his daughter so she does not end up in foster care again. Pretending to be his wife and mother of his gorgeous daughter proves to be more than she has bargained for when she looses her heart to both of them.


It's been wonderful having you here. Thank you so much for stopping by, Kendra.

Everyone: You can get your copy of When Hearts Collide over at Soul Mate Publishing.



 
AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders
Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Book Releases, Kindle Giveaway, and Updates

 This weekend I wanted to post early as there is some major catching up that I need to do around the house and with my writing and other commitments.

 There are lots of updates.


You can get The Swan Cove Murders at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. And if you're not yet convinced about buying it, both have sneak peeks of the entire first chapter.
****If there is anyone who would like to read and do a review on The Swan Cove Murders, please shout it out and leave your email and I will contact you with a copy of it**************************

Over at SMP Authors Group Blog, we have a winner for November's giveaway. Congrats to Viola Cross!!!
Head over there this month for a Kindle giveaway. Click here to get the details. Seriously, who wouldn't enter?

New releases out:

Kira Taye's His Treasure is now out at Breathless Press


In a time when men ruled their households with firm hands, can a quiet man tame his rebellious wife with persevering love?
Angry at being forced to marry a man not of her choosing, Adaku stubbornly shuns her new husband on their wedding night. However, she soon discovers there are worse things than giving into a man whose touch awakens her deep desires. In a land where fruitfulness is celebrated, she could soon be labeled a barren woman.
Obinna knows there are several ways to tame a rebellious woman. Patience and perseverance are two of them. Adaku is his treasure and he will never let her go. When her fears push her into his arms, will he be able to convince her to stay with him forever by unleashing the passion within her?


Xandra James Reluctant Revenge is now out at Pink Petal Books


Nash was bound to Sienna completely – by a blood connection and a deep desire. An Enforcer for the Supranormal community, he was obligated to protect his sexy assignment, despite her family devastating his world.
After being betrayed, Sienna falls into the arms of her surly protector; a demon with a secret of his own. But can she face her destiny knowing she's more dangerous than those Nash was protecting her from?





Callie Hutton's A Wife For Christmas is now available at Soul Mate Publishing


Guthrie, Oklahoma, 1906
History teacher Ellie Henderson, has been a thorn in High School Principal Max Colbert’s side ever since he took over three months ago. When she’s not flying by his office, late for her class, with books and papers jumbled in her arms, she’s attending Suffragettes meetings against his orders.
Because of her family connections, Max can’t fire her, but he can certainly find someone to marry her, and keep her busy in the kitchen--and far away from his school. Max soon finds that what seemed like a good idea can turn into disaster when Miss Ellie Henderson is involved. The woman is a master at getting into trouble.
With the Christmas season in full swing, he has many opportunities to introduce her to prospective husbands. However, he gets the uncomfortable feeling that no one is worthy of the minx...


Got my bookmarks and I must say they came out wonderful. In case anyone forgot, here's a pic:


 Got them made at IPrint.com. They are inexpensive and do such a fabulous job!!!

And my grandson (my monkey :) ) is doing better. He's still in NICU, but is now 5lbs 1 oz. And in the next couple of days he will finally be in a regular crib instead of the incubator. Fingers crossed that he is home by Christmas. Here he is:


 And a shout out to all of you who follow me. Thank you.




AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders           Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Susan Muller and her new debut book, The Secrets On Forest Bend, are in the House!!!

I'm super excited to have Susan C. Muller here today to talk about herself, her writing, and about her new release, The Secrets On Forest Bend. I love my ghost stories and this certainly seems to promise that and more!

Thank you Susan for visiting with me today. Can you tell us a little about yourself?   I live in a suburb of Houston, with my husband and rescue dog, Buster, a 120 pound black lab. I have two children and four grandchildren. When not writing, I do volunteer work in a local hospital.

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you?   My husband and I are planning a cruise next summer for our fiftieth anniversary.  He must be doing something right.

Do you ever write in your PJ’s?    Whenever possible, but I often walk with a friend first thing in the morning. Last summer was brutal in Houston, with temperatures reaching 105 to 107 degrees, and we had to walk earlier and earlier. My neighbors are understanding, but they frown on walking in PJs.

What are your pet peeves?   Narrow minded people.

Cats or dogs?  I have often had one of each, but I’ve never been without a dog, sometimes two.

White wine or red?   White -  Riesling or Piesporter

Coffee or tea?  Both, but they have to be decaf (boo, hiss) so what’s the point?

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream?   Butter pecan

What are 4 things you never leave home without?  Credit card.  That’s all you really need.

Laptop or desktop for writing?  Laptop for reading and emails, desktop for writing.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?  I write upstairs in the guest room/office, whenever my husband is playing golf or watching a ball game.

If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you?  Pierce Brosnan, Daniel Craig, and Sean Bean. Two 007’s and a 006.  What, you thought I would say something deep – Eleanor Roosevelt, Mahatma Gandhi, and Steve Jobs?

An actor you have a crush on?  See above, but add Hugh Jackman and Veggo Mortensen

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?  I love THE AMAZING RACE and RAISING HOPE.

What made you decide to be an author?  I wanted to know if I could do it.

How did you choose the genre you write in?  I didn’t. It chose me.

Are you a punster or a plotter and why?   I’m way too unorganized to be a plotter.

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you?   John Sandford, Jim Butcher, and Janet Evanovich are three I enjoy.

What is your all time favorite book?  TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release?  Adam brings Jillian to dinner with his partner and his partner’s mother.

Ruben placed a huge hand on Adam’s shoulder, holding him back. “Where did she come from? How did you ever find such a beautiful, sexy, and completely inappropriate looking woman? She looks like a biker. Please tell me she rides a Hog.”
“I don’t know. I haven’t seen one. But she does have a tat.”
It didn’t seem possible, but Ruben’s grin got even bigger. “Where is it? Will Mamacita see it?”
“Not with that blouse on. But there’s one thing even better.” Adam hurried on before Ruben asked how he knew what was under her blouse. “She owns a gun store.”
Ruben leaned his head back, looking at the ceiling. He closed his eyes and put his hands together. “Thank you, Lord,” he said. When he looked back at Adam, his grin returned. “Never in the history of the world has one man made such a sacrifice for a friend. I will remember this forever. No matter what I do from now on, no matter whom I bring home, anything less than a hooker and I’m golden. She’ll never complain about my girlfriends again.”
Adam waited for a growl to build in the back of his throat, but surprisingly, nothing came. What was wrong with him tonight? He was too young to start mellowing.
“After dinner we need to talk,” Adam said. “I have a problem.”
“You mean in addition to the fact that you just brought a gun-toting, tattooed biker chick into Mamacita’s house? I can’t wait to hear it.”

How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one?   This was supposed to be Jillian’s story, and she is the young girl in the prologue.  Somewhere in Chapter One, I realized it was Adam’s story. When a good-looking guy taps you on the shoulder and says, “I’ll take over now,” what are you going to do?

Where do you get your ideas from?  I have no idea.

How did you choose your title?  The story was long finished before I chose the title, even then I changed House to Secrets.

How do you cure writer’s block?  I take a (short) break – put the clothes in the dryer, walk the dog around the block – then get back to work.


Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer?  Write, write, write.  Yes, take classes, read books, but keep writing.

What sacred advice have you been giving by another writer?  Learn the rules before you try to break them.

Where can your readers stalk you?   www.susancmuller.com

Tell us about your new release:  A Homicide detective is chasing a serial killer when he stumbles across a crooked cop, an intriguing woman, and a vengeful ghost.  Can he stay alive long enough to bring down the cop, win the woman, and destroy the ghost?

Sounds like a wonderfully spooky read. Thank you so much again for stopping in Susan.

Get your copy of The Secrets On Forest Bend at Soul Mate Publishing here.




AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Memories of Christmas Past

 This time of year with Christmas around the corner always has me reminiscing of Christmases past. My mom's house was filled with the majority of us children and grandchildren. The ones who couldn't make it because they lived much further away would call, and we'd just pass the phone around to say hi and Merry Christmas. Mom would start between 6-7 am making apple, pumpkin, mincemeat, and chocolate pies and storing them in the back part of the house where the room was cold (you could see your breath). Christmas dinner consisted of a ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, pearl onions, green beans, corn, a tossed salad, fresh baked rolls, and of course her famous raisin sauce for the ham. There was always more leftovers than we knew what to do with. The Christmas songs were blasted from the radio all day and into the night. In the evening, us kids would go play and the adults would play penny poker. It was fun to hear their laughter in the kitchen. As I got older, the card games changed but I had finally been included. I have so many memories, it's hard to nail down a favorite as each one meant the world to me.

Now, we're spread out quite a bit. Mom has many more grandchildren and great grandchildren. It been 16 years since my dad had passed away and 7 years for one of my brothers. I'm not saying Christmas now is less than great. Just that it's changed and I'm learning how to make my own family's Christmases memorable for them. It's just nice to go back and remember the smell of Mom's apple pie baking as I opened my presents with Dad sitting in his recliner dressed up like Santa handing the presents out. Or my brothers and sisters showing up later on for dinner and how I couldn't wait to see them. Great Christmas memories :)

Here's the deal. Tell me about one of your favorite Christmas memories along with your email address and I'll have my son draw one lucky name to win a copy of The Swan Cove Murders and my new bookmark. See below.




And be sure to stop by The Dark Phantom Review for my guest interview!



AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders             Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Callie Hutton And Her New Release: A Run For Love


I'm excited to have Callie Hutton here. Her debut book, A Run For Love, releases today and it sounds like a great historical romantic read. Find a cozy seat, grab a cup of coffee, and join us.

Welcome Callie. Thanks for joining me today. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
 
I’ve been making up stories in my head since elementary school, and writing since I learned to type in high school.  I’ve had a number of things published, and finally last summer,  decided to put it all together and write a book. So far I’ve finished four Historical Western Romances and one contemporary as part of a project with my Oklahoma Romance Writers group.
Being a History major in college, it follows that I write mostly Historical Romance. Oh, I also like falling in love — did it myself and now I enjoy writing about it. And yes, I fall in love with all my heroes.
Although we’ve lived in several states, Oklahoma is where I’ve hung my hat for the last several years, but I hail from New Jersey. I’m an Okie-Jersey girl. And proud of it.
My hubby supports me in all my ventures, truly being the wind beneath my wings. We have two kids at home–21 and 19–and we’re so happy our two dogs and new little kitten allow us to share their home.

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you? One time years ago, as most newly married couples, we were kinda broke. The women in the office where I worked at the time were going out to lunch, but I didn’t have the extra money. I called hubby and told him, and he suggested I come home for lunch. When I got there, he had the table set with our best dishes, tablecloth, etc. He’d made us both a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and we split a soda. He wore a suit, and had a cloth napkin over his arm. It was a riot, and something I never forgot.

Do you ever write in your PJ’s?
  But of course!  How else?

What are your pet peeves? Books with illogic or inconsistences. I hate when I’m reading a book and someone who the heroine knows has an agenda tells her a horrendous lie about the hero, and the nitwit believes it.  I also hate books where a five minute conversation would clear up the ‘conflict.’ I once read a book where one word would have cleared up the conflict.  I can never finish those books cause it really annoys me.

Cats or dogs?  Both. I have two dogs and a new little kitten.

White wine or red?
Club soda with a twist of lemon

Coffee or tea?
Both. Depending on my mood and the time of day.

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream? Kinda both.  Vanilla with chocolate syrup.

What are 4 things you never leave home without? Cell phone, keys, flash drive with my music, debit card

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop. I take it with me everywhere I go.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing? Any place, any time.

An actor you have a crush on? Bradley Cooper

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed? Don’t really watch TV, the last movie I saw that I really liked was Bridesmaids

What made you decide to be an author? I love to make up stories.

How did you choose the genre you write in? I was a history major in college, and I love reading historical fiction.

Are you a panster or a plotter and why? Both—neither. I do some planning at the beginning (character sketches, outlining). I usually don’t stick to the outline too closely. About mid way through the book, I’ll do a more detailed outline, when I see where the characters took me.

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you? Lynsay Sands, Sandra Brown, Janet Evonovich.

What is your all time favorite book? Absolutely impossible to say.  I’m not even sure I could name a favorite in each genre.

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release?
“Jesse never gave up on me.” She pointed a shaky finger at the pastor. “He never gave up. Never! No matter how many times I pushed him away, he never, ever gave up. You didn’t know that did you?” Her voice lowered and she rubbed dirty, bloody hands down her skirt, her voice shaking. “I’m not giving up on him either.” She flung her arm out. “So you can all go on home, but I’ll be here until I find him.”

How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one? I had to whip Tori into shape cause she was a stubborn one. But in the end her stubbornness paid off.

Where do you get your ideas from? Everywhere

How did you choose your title? My book is based on the Oklahoma Land Run, so A Run For Love just seemed to fit.

How do you cure writer’s block? A recent writer’s block ended when I took the characters out of the setting they were in and put them somewhere else. Worked great. It was two male characters, and they were much more cooperative when I took them out of an office and put them in a bar with a beer in their hands.

Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer? Write, write, write.  Read, read, read. And not just books on the craft of writing, which are good, but reading books in your genre will inspire you and see what works and what doesn’t.

What sacred advice have you been given by another writer? Make sure you keep your story yours. Don’t take so much advice from others that you lose your story, or your voice.


Where can your readers stalk you? www.calliehutton.com


Tell us about your new release:
TORI HENDERSON wants independence, freedom and no husband.  JESSE COCHRAN wants a new start, far from the crippling effects of a childhood stained by being the whore’s kid.
            It’s April, 1889 and the Oklahoma Land Run is about to begin.  Since they’re going to be evicted from their Kansas home, Tori needs land to provide a home for her four nieces and nephews. After the unexpected death of her brother, she became their only parent. Jesse wants to leave his past behind, and practice law.
            Their first encounter in Arkansas City, where thousands have gathered to await the firing of the cannons to begin the race, has them snapping at each other.  His opinion on a woman participating in the Land Run without a husband certainly reinforce her opinion of domineering males.  It’s easy to dismiss each other, however.  That is until the dust settles after the Run, and they end up next door neighbors in Guthrie, Oklahoma.
            Will these two survive life together when an unintended pregnancy forces them into marriage?
            A Run For Love book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8kCfEl_F4g
            My website:  www.calliehutton.com


You can purchase here www.soulmatepublishing.com and don’t forget to go to Soul Mate Publishing to check out all the other great new debuts.

Thank you so much for being here today Callie.







AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Release Date December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Thanksgiving Done Early

I have decided to partake in my Thansgiving early. Not the turkey and the trimmings and the family. Just what I'm thankful for this year. And there is quite a list.



1. For my recovery from the whole gallbladder, stones and pancreatitis from the beginning of the year. That was a rough few weeks. But without my son's help, it would have been so much worse. Which leads me to the next.

2. Because I was so sick, my son, Aaron, came back from Tennessee to be by my side and help me through all the days at the hospital and especially after coming home.

3. I'm thankful for Savvy Authors hosting May Bootcamp, June Revision Hell and July Pitches. Without that, The Swan Cove Murders would not be completed and published.

4. I'm thankful for all my family's health. For the most part, they are all doing okay. I have a very large family (I'm the 9th child) plus all the extensions meaning in laws of everyone plus my own. You are talking multitudes here. And all of us are pretty good.

5. For my close friends. Without their support, I'd probably be bald from yanking all my hair out. They keep me sane.

6. For my critique partners (Twinkies!!). They are like family to me and they tell it like it is. That's exactly what I need at times.

7. For my new writing group, Writers Up and Coming. Even though I haven't been able to do a whole lot here lately, they still root me on and have some great patience.

8. For my new grandson and his continued health. He is doing better and is gaining weight and is finally drinking from a bottle. Yay!! We are keeping our fingers crossed that he's home by Christmas.

9. For my family, again. Without their support of my writing, I don't know that I could push through. Let's just say I have a HUGE cheerleading squad and they rock!!

10. For my editor who saw something no one else could see in my writing. That little difference, a little twist if you will in mine. And she took a huge chance on me and ran with it full force. She is an awesome editor and I couldn't have asked for anyone more solid, more understanding, and more there by my side than her. Again thank you Debbie for all you do.

11. For my imagination and the ideas that continue to flow. Without them, well there would be no writing period. I believe we're all given some type of gift and writing is mine.

12. For my new found friends and fellow authors over at Soul Mate Publishing. I'm so glad to have met you all and how fast we're growing in our writing together.

13. Thankful for my mother's continued good health. At 84 she has finally had to slow down. And let's just say she's not liking it. The age factor is starting to catch up to her however. So, every day that I call her and can hear her voice is another day that I'm especially thankful for as she is and always will be my absolute best friend.

14. For my new job. It came at the right time as all things usually do. The place is great, the people are awesome and I'm making some decent money so I can catch up on bills and have a good Christmas.

15. For the troops whom have fought and continue to fight for our freedom every day. These are my real heroes.

Okay, I could go on and on with the list, but now it's your turn. What are you thankful for this year?


AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders Coming December28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Angeline M Bishop is in The House Today!!

I am so excited today. I have Angeline M Bishop here today to talk about herself and her new release North Star. She is a fellow author as is Char Chaffin (if I didn't mention that yesterday) over at Soul Mate Publishing. Angeline, it's wonderful to have you here. Pull up that cozy seat and let's get started.


Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a southern belle making a living in fast-paced New Jersey, where multi-tasking, NJ Turnpike exits, and talking with our hands is a way of life. (laughter) Wow, I just thought about my Atlanta, Georgia based aunts sharing quizzically looks as my purse chime with incoming emails.  We’re super connected in the New York/New Jersey area. I guess that’s why the some of the new G4 commercials crack me up (see http://youtu.be/bvVVQGgbKk0).  We do everything fast here, we really need reminders to slow down and disconnect.

I know all about those New Jersey exits!

What is the most romantic thing your significant other or anyone has done for you?
Well, let me see.  I would say he made our night during a blackout in a French chĆ¢teau-like hotel, seem like a scene from a wonderful romance movie.  And I have to find a way to weave it into a story.  The wonderful thing about that time was he wasn’t even trying to be romantic.  I guess romance comes natural for some people. 

Do you ever write in your PJ’s?
Yes, I love to do that!  I race home, cook, eat dinner, jump in the shower, and by 7PM I’m writing my novel.  My red Rutgers pajama bottoms and a white tank are my favorites.  Go RU!!

What are your pet peeves?
Pets that pee!  (laughter) No, I’m just being silly. I don’t like narcissists that wear elitist looks on their faces (you can be a narcissist just don’t let me suspect it).  (grins) People that squeeze the toothpaste tube in the middle, jaywalkers on college campus (yeah, I can’t see you if you choose to jump out from between the buses).  And people that take the last sip of juice without calling out that they are about to finish it.

Cats or dogs?
I love DOGS!  Loyal, welcoming, protective.  Yeah, I love the agility of felines but dogs have a special place in my heart.

White wine or red?
I’m going to try not to get a funny interview tagline with my response. (laughter)  My fellow Soul Mate Publishing authors know what happened the last time I answered this question on a blog.  So I’ll keep it simple, I like white wine.

LMAO!!

Coffee or tea?
It would be herbal teas, I find them so calming.  My favorites are Chamomile and Cranberry Pomegranate.

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream?
Mmmm, I like vanilla-based ice creams.  Haagen Dazs Vanilla Swiss Almond, Cherry Vanilla and Butter Pecan are my favorites.

What are 4 things you never leave home without?
My BlackBerry smartphone, my purse, my car keys and my Bluetooth ear piece.

Laptop or desktop for writing?
Laptop because I can take it anywhere to write and not be stuck at home.  It’s also better for traveling.

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
I enjoy writing at home at night right now, but in the beginning of my writing career I was a morning writer.  It’s funny how things change when your life gets busier.

If you were deserted on an island, who are 3 famous people you would want with you?
Oprah because she knows enough people to get us rescued quickly.
Wolfgang Puck because he would make sure we ate decent meals while we were there.
And Hugh Jackman to act out any story I wanted to write.

An actor you have a crush on?
I can’t pick just one.  Right now I’m adoring Hugh Jackman, Boris Kodjoe and Blair Underwood.  Just let me mix them together.

What is a movie or TV show that you watched recently and really enjoyed?
I love Grey’s Anatomy.  Totally addicted to it but now Once Upon a Time is drawing me in.  I love how the writers are turning my classic fairy tales on their head.

What made you decide to be an author?
Well Oprah and Tyler Perry caused me to re-examine at my childhood wish to be writer and push myself to make it a reality.  They firmly believe all goals are a possibility and the only person preventing my dreams from taking flight was me. 

At first, I didn’t believe it was that simple but it really is.  If you want something bad enough, work hard to get it, you can achieve it.  When I look back on my life, I’ve always wanted to be an author.  I was even vice-president of a high school club called Future Authors of America at DeSoto County High School in Florida.  It was before I graduated from Gainesville High School but it proves I wanted to be a writer as a youth. The desire was always there.

How did you choose the genre you write in?
I took the write what you know philosophy.  I know about contemporary times because my readers like seeing bits and pieces of our times in their novels.  Does it date the work?  Of course but a good story can stand up no matter what the timeframe.

Are you a panster or a plotter and why?
I’m a plotter and I blame my college literature professors for that practice.  They strengthened my plotting skills with every essay, story and research paper. One day, I’ll try to craft a short holiday novella as a panster (a writer that simply sits down and starts writing, trusting that they will figure everything out as they go along. The name comes from the fact that they write by the seat of their pants).

Is there a particular author who may have influenced you?
I would say there were two, Maya Angelou and Richard Wright. I read I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Native Son at age twelve because my mother pushed reading more than television in our home. 

My mother was leery about me reading Native Son because it was a book meant for my brother but I didn’t like the fact that everyone in my home read that novel while I was busy reading Encyclopedia Brown.

What is your all time favorite book?
Homer’s Greek epic poem The Odyssey.  I love the story of the Greek hero and his long journey back home Ithaca, and his wife, Penelope.

What is your favorite sentence or quote in your new release?
Right now, it would be, “He was cold and distant, making it very clear that he wasn’t her safe place to fall. When they hung up, she waited until she was alone to cry. Long streams of hot tears cascaded down her face as her heart pounded in her ears. The realization that he had no concern for her made her throat tighten and her body shake as she sobbed.”

How much trouble did your characters give you while writing your new release? Which one?
Yvette was a hand full.  I could feel myself wanting to tell her story more and more but it's not her time. She has many layers and it take a special man to step into her world. I’m not one hundred percent sure when I’ll work on her story but it’s coming.

Where do you get your ideas from?
I observe real life love stories all the time.  Men and women are so open about how they met their loved ones so I listen and sometimes it sparks a story

How did you choose your title?
The Sheridan series deals with the love stories of four siblings so the first book, North Star will deal with Graham’s story.  The other stories will also have the navigational directions in their titles too.

How do you cure writer’s block?
I plug in my iPod and dance around to release stress.  Then I live life away from the laptop by visiting friends or spending time with my daughters.  If that doesn’t work, I pick the brain of a flesh and blood alpha male until he raises an eyebrow and laughs me away. (laughter)

Do you have any advice for an aspiring writer?
Write, write, write!  You can’t be a writer if you don’t write, it’s just that simple.

What sacred advice have you been giving by another writer?
Nora Roberts, Nicholas Sparks, Jackie Collins all say the same thing, “Your story is right for your type of reader and publishing is a business.” Writing may be art, but publishing, when all is said and done, comes down to dollars.

Where can your readers stalk you?


Tell us about your new release:
When Caresse Aldana is chosen to persuade Psyche's dangerously handsome editor-in-chief, Graham Sheridan, to feature an article on Mason Community Center, she tells herself it's just business but he's just the man to prove her wrong and make her his own. NORTH STAR takes inspirational themes of family bonds and community involvement and gives readers a passionate romance.

Book trailer: http://youtu.be/WNMhnmqhfkM


It was great to have you here today, Angeline. I wish you well with North Star. It sounds wonderful.

You can purchase your copy of North Star here over at Soul Mate Publishing.



AVAILABLE NOW @ Soul Mate Publishing: The Swan Cove Murders       Coming December 28th: Secrets of Jenkins Bridge