Thoughts on the New Year

Posted on January 1, 2015 by Silver James

Happy New Year with firework

Well, the New Year rolled into town just as expected. Last year was wild and crazy, but what else is new, right? Life’s like that, yeah it is. I read 210 books–or more. I forgot to record some of them. I wrote three books (The Cowgirl’s Little Secret, Blue Moon, and Moon Shot) and a novella (Faerie Faith), all 55K words or less. Seems like I didn’t do very much. But better than nothing. I have plans for this new year. If time, opportunity, and perseverance will indulge me. I’m thinking ambitious thoughts. BIG thoughts. BIG dreams. BIG plans. But I’m also remembering Murphy’s habit of throwing out new laws that kick my butt when I least expect it. Here, in a nutshell, is what’s in my head: I’m going to have a new release every month of 2015.

See? I told you. BIG STUFF!

But don’t get me wrong, while this is a huge undertaking, not every release will be a major book–like 80-100K. I’ve discovered a bit of talent for writing short and find I like it. Also, two of the books are already written and scheduled–my two Harlequin releases for January and April. That leaves me ten months to go. I might also be writing more Red Dirt Royalty books though they’ll probably won’t release until 2016 and a lot of my schedule depends on any new contracts coming from New York. Am I being ambitious? Oh, hell yeah! But to coin an old chestnut, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Here’s what I’d like to do:

January: Cowgirl’s Don’t Cry
February: Moonstruck: Secrets
March: Either Hard Target or Nightriders Book #1
April: The Cowgirl’s Little Secret
May: Book #1 of whichever series didn’t release in March
June: The Devil’s Cut, Penumbra Papers #2
July: Moonstruck: Lies (though I may skip July because of RWA Nationals in New York – depends on if I can get it ready for early-monthy release)
August: Book #2 of HT or NR
September: Book #2 of NR or HT
October: Moonstruck: Betrayal
November: Considering a double release: Book 3 of both HT and NR or Penumbra Papers Book #3
December: Moonstruck: Moon Lights – a Moonstruck Christmas Novella
January: Moonstruck: Retribution

Can I keep to this schedule? I have no idea. While hugely ambitious, I remind you that the Moonstruck books are mostly already written. It’s simply a matter of further editing–adding in cut chapters and writing a few bridging chapters so it’s not like I have this massive million word goal set. And things may change. One series may end up being a serial and will be slam bam, thank ya, ma’am and done. I’m not done with the world the Wolves live in but at the same time, I want to get back to Sade and Sinjen’s world. I’d like to put out at least two Penumbra books a year. Luckily, I write fast and I have a great team behind me for production. So…that’s the writing bits.

On to the personal. No resolutions. Don’t make ’em, can’t ever keep ’em. But I am going to try to eat healthier and do my best to get on the damn gazelle for at least 30 minutes a day. ‘Nuff said.

So there it is. I suppose if I were to follow Janet’s example, my 2015 word would be WRITE! Every day–at least Monday thru Friday, just like a job. The best job I could ever have. Because being a writer, being here with y’all? Yeah…that pretty much tops my list. Here’s to a kick-ass 2015. We’re all going to shine!

Happy New Year from all the Wolves and their families, from SEAL Team Atlantis, from the Barron brothers and their cowgirls, from Sade, Sinjen, Caleb, Roman, Ari, Nikos, and all the denizens of the Penumbra Papers, and most especially from ME! *throws confetti*

Posted in Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

New Year’s Eve Hump Day

Posted on December 31, 2014 by Silver James

happy new year 2015I have the feeling all of us are standing here scratching our heads and wondering what happened to 2014. I certainly am. When I look back at the year, it’s a blur with a lot of valleys and a few peaks. Life is like that, yeah it is.

My word for 2014–a tradition handed down by my good friend Janet, whose posts I miss–A LOT!!!–was actually a phrase: Creative Organization–Organized Creativity. Yeah, about that… The thought lasted until Real Life™ intervened. With Lawyer Guy being in ICU for over a month, with Only and Baseball Boy’s house purchase and precipitous move while she was on bed rest and then Sprouts early arrival? Add in the Harlequin contract, the request for the final book in the Faerie Reign series, and babysitting after Baseball Boy got his teaching job, the year sort of devolved into chaos. Good thing I’m used to that, right? 😆

So, this year? No word. Tomorrow, I’ll give you a preview of my plans. Yes, tomorrow is New Year’s Day, but I figure most of you will be around. I will be.

I’d hoped to work on my newsletter yesterday but once again, chaos. Which is fine. I’m rather getting used to plans changing in the blink of an eye and I might even miss the ride if my life was smooth sailing. 😉 It’ll be out today. Or tomorrow. I’m sort of coasting along at the moment. January 2nd? Yeah, it’ll be pedal to the metal then. I want to hit the ground running and deliver a Gibbs’ Slap™ to 2015 before it gets any ideas.

In the meantime, lets talk about the blog. What’s working? What doesn’t? Do y’all like the format I’ve been following with the topics of my posts? “Wait,” you say, “there’s a format?” Well, sort of, meaning the Monday wrap ups, Tuesday Treats-Titles-Trivia, Wednesday Words (usually), Thursday Thoughts (yay for the Universe), and finally Friday Free-For-Alls where anything goes. Would you like me to change things up? I’m here to entertain you. I want to know what you enjoy reading about. Do you want more stuff about writing? Do you want a regular/weekly feature of guest blogs where I host other authors pimping their books? (Personally, I like pimping friends and like keeping slots reserved for them but I aim to please y’all…) It’s up for discussion so sing out!

And on a more fun note, anybody have plans for tonight? If I’m lucky, I’ll be awake to celebrate when the New Year hits New York. If not, I’ll be tossing ZZZZs to the Universe. We’re not big party people in this house, though I might indulge in a glass of wine at dinner. Wait. Does wine go with chili? 😆

Have a safe and wonderful New Year’s Eve, everyone. Thank you for hanging around. I miss y’all when you’re gone. As Hannah would say, “Here’s to a kick-ass 2015!”

Posted in Writing Life | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments

The Thing About Tuesday

Posted on December 30, 2014 by Silver James

survived mondayPoor Tuesday. It sort of gets lost between Monday and Wednesday. Monday is…Monday. No explanation needed. Wednesday is Hump Day. Again, self-explanatory. Then there’s Tuesday, which is just sort of there. It’s a day to recover from Monday and gear up for mid-week. Tuesday is a second-cup of coffee kind of day, don’t you think? Though the big publishers release new books on Tuesdays. That’s a good thing.

Today, I’m going to throw some things out for consideration, given that tomorrow is New Year’s Eve and it’s time to assess the old year and plan for the new.

First, Facebook is being a dick. They’re changing things for “business” pages, and that includes author/fan pages. If you follow my author page on FB, there’s a couple of things you can do. First, Like/Follow my author page. Then, hover your mouse on that Liked button and click on the GET NOTIFICATIONS. That means the page will show up in your feed. Hopefully. If I promote/sell my books in my posts I can get my hands slapped and the update buried. Way to go, FB! 😛 Yes, I’m on G+, Tsu, Ello, and other places but I don’t get the same interaction there. Sadly. 😦 So I tend to ignore them. Anyway…

Second, if you haven’t signed up for my Newsletter, please click on the Mailchimp button over there on the right and sign up. I don’t send them out often, though there will be one going out tomorrow and I’ll be announcing a winner of a signed copy of COWGIRL’S DON’T CRY and a piece of cool cowgirl swag. You have to be signed up for it to get into the drawing. That’s all you have to do. And yes, there will be something given away in each one!

Third, y’all know how much I appreciate you, right? Your friendship and faithful responses keep me going when I start to wonder if there’s anybody out there. Yes, it’s a writer thing I think all authors experience. Some of you here are writers, which is awesome, but all of us are readers. I love books. I love reading them. I love talking about books. I especially love writing them. Thank you! For reading the books I write, and showing up here to say hi.

Fourth, in the coming year, I’d really appreciate your help as a sort of mini-street team. Any of you follow Dear Author? When they do their reader post at the end/beginning of each month, if you mention any of my books, especially the new releases, I’d be totally grateful! I mean like I’d send you kisses (chocolate, of course)! And reader forums your on. FB. Twitter. Other social media sites. Pin my covers if you’re on Pinterest. (This is something I’m bad about and plan to make a resolution to do it more often in the New Year.) Word of mouth is the most priceless advertising an author can get. I also plan on doing memes based on quotes from my books. Sharing those would be totally awesome, too! With some time and patience, I hope to have a separate page you can click on to copy/paste the memes. 🙂

Well…alrighty then. I think that’s all. I had a list of things I was going to talk about but it got lost on my desk. I’ll probably find it next December. 😉 In the meantime, what’s on your mind? Book recommendations? Marketing ideas? Thoughts on writing, reading, life? I’ll be right back after I get another cup of coffee.

Posted in Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

Monday After a Holiday

Posted on December 29, 2014 by Silver James

Christmas was 4 days ago. I was sick. Oh, I managed to get through the last-minute rush, Christmas Eve preparations and family dinner, Christmas morning Santa Claus, and family lunch at the in-laws before coming home to collapse Christmas afternoon and sleep for a couple of days. I’m mostly better now but dang if I’m not behind! I’ll get caught up this week. Because…it’s the end of the year. Time to finish off the old and get ready for the new, right?

First, I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday week, no matter what winter celebration you enjoy. Santa was good to me–Amazon cards, iTunes cards, Starbucks. Iffy got me new sleep pants to work in. And my Inner Editor got me a new magnetic white board with fresh markers. I’ll get the wall next to my desk rearranged this week. Stop laughing. I will!

Second, holy cannoli! I have a Harlequin release coming out January 6th. Stand by for much promotion and giveaways. I have Cowgirl Goodies™ to dispense.

Third, while I was sick, I read. And being sick, not every book waiting on my Kindle would work. I looked at the new stuff and went…uhm…no. 😦 Yes, I’m a comfort reader. But then I realized Dannika Dark had a new book out in her Seven series. This is a paranormal/wolf shifter series that I really enjoy. But starting New Year’s Day, there will be a new Goodreads Reader’s Challenge starting. I’m well over the 200 books in my challenge for this year but some were re-reads, which Goodreads disallows. 😛 So, I plan to reread the previous books: Seven Years, Six Months, and Five Weeks before I start Four Days on Jan. 1st. Sensing a trend there? 😆 I also got WRITTEN IN RED by Anne Bishop on sale for the Kindle. I’m DYING to reread it! BUT….yeah, there’s always a but, right? The third book in her Others series comes out right after my birthday. Yes, it’s already pre-ordered. I don’t want to reread RED now, followed by the second book, because I’d HAVE to reread the second book. I’m trying to wait until closer to release date so I can reread both and fall right into the 3rd book. LOVE this series! I thought about rereading a couple of other series I really like but nothing just…jumped out. Then I started having trouble with the Fire. The power cord has to be “just right” in order for it to charge. 😦 Luckily, I have my iPhone and my very old iPad, both with Kindle Apps. So, I grabbed the iPad. And guess what was waiting when I opened the Kindle app…NAKED IN DEATH. My chicken soup book. At some point, I’d opened it on the iPad to look up a quote in the book and never closed it out. I ❤ this book so much! And so I read it. And now I'm ready GLORY IN DEATH, and I'll keep reading through IMMORTAL IN DEATH because that's got one of my favorite scenes between Summerset and Eve and oh, yeah…Eve and Roarke's wedding so…d'uh! Then I'll go back and read the Seven series. I love when a book plan comes together.

So, what plans to y'all have this week? What books did you get for Christmas? What are you dying to read in the New Year? And before I forget, don't forget to sign up for Harlequin's COWGIRLS DON’T CRY Goodreads Giveaway. Today is the last day to get your name in the hat for 1 of 24 copies! Just click on the title here, go to the Goodreads page, scroll down and click ENTER TO WIN. Easy peasy!

Posted in Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , | 10 Comments

Twelve Brides of Christmas – Bang the Drummer

Posted on December 24, 2014 by Silver James

Christmas Eve Gift! We come to the last day of our Twelve Brides of Christmas author spotlight and who better to take us out with a bang than the queen of erotic romance, Desiree Holt! Here’s a big welcome to Desiree!

Bang the Drummer – a new way to celebrate Christmas

With Christmas practically right around the corner, I wanted to share a taste of my newest Christmas story. Bang the Drummer is part of the Twelve Brides of Christmas anthology series from The Wild Rose Press and is a SPICY version of 12 drummers drumming!
It’s a Recommended Read from All Romance eBooks and is now available from all these outlets:

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS | AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | KOBO | ITUNES | WILD ROSE PRESS

Blurb:

Jill Kennedy has plans for a Christmas wedding. She’s put down deposits for the flowers, photos, and venue. Now all she needs is a groom. A drummer who’ll keep her life as steady as he keeps the beat to his music. With her good friend Charlie Costello as her wingman, she’ll interview percussionists, one per month until she finds the right tempo. But with Christmas approaching and no groom in sight, she’s starting to wonder if she’ll ever bang the drummer of her dreams.

Excerpt:
Jill Kennedy curled up on her couch studying her iPad, frowning. Her Christmas tree still twinkled in the corner although the holiday was long past. Coldplay’s latest CD bumped its tunes out from her iPod docking station. The last of her Christmas candles flicked in glass holders on the coffee table, filling the room with the scent of pine and cranberry. She should be feeling mellow, but instead her nerves were jumping and a headache was creeping slowly up from the nape of her neck.

Charlie Costello lounged next to her, sock feet resting on her coffee table, his hands tapping a steady rhythm on his thighs in time to the song.

Jill tucked a strand of her shoulder-length sable-colored hair behind her ear as she studied the information on the iPad screen.

“I think I’ve got everything taken care of. Booked the Creekside Winery. Ordered the decorations. Set up a tasting for the food and Stella’s designing the wedding cake.” She glanced up at Charlie. “Why are you looking at me in that strange way?”

He gave her his familiar lop-sided grin. “You are the only woman I know who plans and pays for her wedding without knowing who the groom is.”

She flipped a hand at him. “I’ll have one by then. It’s in the plan. You know.”

He threw back his head and laughed. “Yeah, I love your interview process. You aren’t even dating anyone right now.”

“Because look how poor my choices were in that arena, right?”

He snorted. “So this is better? Tell me how?”

Jill pulled up another memo on her iPad. “Okay. I have a list.”

“A list? This I gotta hear. Lay it on me.”

If she didn’t need his help so badly, she would have smacked him. “It’s very specific. I asked around about different drummers in different bands and narrowed it down to the twelve most likely prospects. You know. Twelve drummers drumming, for Christmas.”

“Like a grocery list,” he teased.

“No, Charlie.” Damn him! “Like an interview process for a job.”

“Is that what this is, kitten? A job?”

“It’s a lifetime commitment,” she sniffed. She wished he’d just let her get on with this. All these questions were making her have tiny doubts about the wisdom of her decision. She gave herself a mental shake. “I’ll do one a month until I hit on the right one. The exact right one. First I check out their musical talent and their band history.”

Charlie gave a roar of laughter. “Because that’s such a requirement for stability?”

“Because it has to be a drummer so I need his performance history,” she snapped.

“Maybe it’s a different kind of performance you should be worrying about.”

“That comes later. After the phone calls and the coffee dates to see how he is in person and match our likes and dislikes.”

“Coffee dates?” He cocked an eyebrow. “Not even a romantic dinner?”

She wanted to sling the iPad at him. “I’ve been that route, remember? The whole nine yards, and what did I get? A bunch of losers. No, I’m doing this like a project for work. As a systems analyst, she knew the importance of things being able to mesh on a practical basis. ”

So you’re going to interview these bozos and then—what?”

“Drummers,” she told him. “Interviewing drummers.”

He cocked his head. “And that’s why?”

“I told you.” She blew out a breath of exasperation. “Drummers have the best beat. The best tempo. They’re the heart of the band.” She grinned. “And have the best rhythm in bed.”

Attention: I’ll be giving away one copy of this book to one lucky commenter. Post about your favorite Christmas and be sure to leave me your email. I’ll pick the winner late tonight.

SONY DSCReferred to by USA Today as the Nora Roberts of erotic romance, Desiree Holt is the world’s oldest living published erotic romance author. A graduate of the University of Michigan her earlier careers include agent and manager in the music industry, public television, associate vice president of university advancement, public relations, and economic development.

She is three times a finalist for an EPIC E-Book Award (and a winner in 2014), a nominee for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, winner of the first 5 Heart Sweetheart of the Year Award at The Romance Studio as well as twice a CAPA Award winner for best BDSM book of the year, winner of the Ellora’s Cave Golden Ankh and winner of the Holt Medallion for Excellence in Romance Literature.

She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The (London) Daily Mail, The New Delhi Times, The Huffington Post and numerous other national and international publications. Currently she has signed on as a blogger for The Huffington Post. She is also the Authors After Dark 2014 Author of the Year.

“Desiree Holt is the most amazing erotica author of our time and each story is more fulfilling then the last.” (Romance Junkies)

“Holt knows what her fans will love.” and “Holt delivers with delicious love scenes, a believable story and characters you care about.” -RT Book Reviews

“Well-written erotica filled with modern-day cowboys.” -John Rodzilla, Emerson Univ., Boston The Library Journal

“Desiree Holt delivers smoking hot alpha heroes and red hot romances.” -Lea Franczak, USA Today Happy Ever After blog.

“I have read many stories by this author and she never disappoints. She knows how to bring out the best in her characters that help you connect with them.” -Romancing the Book

“Ride the Mustang by Desiree Holt is everything you come to expect from Ms. Holt.” -Sizzling Hot Reads

Learn more about her and her novels here:

WEBSITE | DESIRE ME ONLY | FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE PERSONAL PAGE | TWITTER | PINTEREST | LINKEDIN | GOOGLE+

Contact Desiree at
desireeholt@desireeholt.com

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Twelve Brides of Christmas – Piper’s Piping

Posted on December 23, 2014 by Silver James

We’ve reached the 11th day of Christmas so it’s time to welcome Dylan Newton and her book, PIPER’S PIPING. All I can say is…WOLVES
!
Thank you so much for hosting me today for the awesome “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! In my book, Piper’s Piping, my werewolf heroine (much as I have always wanted to do!!) travels to Ireland for the holidays. But as with much of Aribella’s life, her long-awaited honeymoon doesn’t quite turn out the way she planned!

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of Piper’s Piping—my holiday story with a werewolf twist—comment below with your answer to my holiday question:

If you could go anywhere for the holidays, where would you go and why?

I can’t wait to hear where you’d go, and because I’m a writer—I’m curious as to WHY you’d choose that location! We writers always need to know the backstory! 😀 I will be choosing one random comment by noon tomorrow for that FREE e-copy, so scroll down and comment below!

Here’s a little bit about my book, Piper’s Piping, including an excerpt and some buy links for you! Thanks again for stopping by, and don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN!!! 😀

Piper’s Piping Blurb:
Werewolf Aribella Lupari-Gray is on her long-awaited honeymoon. Or at least, that was the plan. When she and Mason land in Ireland just before Christmas, their dream holiday turns into a nightmare: the pack’s werewolf children have all vanished.

To top it off, the werewolf king—who was supposed to sanctify Ari’s marriage to a human—is away searching for the missing pups and may not return in time to grant his official blessing, jeopardizing her family’s future status within the pack.

If things don’t change fast, there may not even be a marriage to bless. Ari’s desire to help puts her life—and her relationship with Mason—in jeopardy.

With Mason gone, presumably back to the States and Christmas on the doorstep, Ari sets out on one final mission to find the lost pups. With her life and the pack’s young in the balance, will Ari be able to perform a holiday miracle or will she die trying?

Piper’s Piping Excerpt:
Ari unfolded the note, and glitter cascaded down from the folds.

“Santa loves sparkly things,” Keeva said, anxiously eyeing the lost glitter. “So after I wrote my Christmas list, I outlined it in red and green glitter. See?”

Ari’s smile faded as she scanned the child’s crayoned letter.

Dear Santa,
Can you please find my cousins for Christmas? Even Phaedra, but do not give her candy, as she is not a good sharer.
I know you won’t have room in your sleigh for toys with all those kids, so you don’t have to give me anything else. But maybe you can fit a kitten in your pocket? Mum says no way can a werewolf have a cat, but if you bring one she will have to say yes.
Thank you,
Keeva Carney
P.S. I like black kittens best.

Ari carefully refolded the paper, and Keeva stuffed it into her stocking once more.

“Mum said Santa is busy Christmas Eve, but if that’s all I ask for, he’ll bring them back. He won’t let them miss Christmas, right?” Keeva looked up at Ari.

Ruffling the girl’s ginger hair, Ari mustered a smile. “When a good girl asks Santa for something, how can he resist?”
As Keeva scampered to the kitchen for dinner, Ari stared fixedly at the festive decorations.

Santa was in way over his mythical head.

Want to buy this novella? Click on the link!

AMAZON | WILD ROSE PRESS (all formats)

DylanNewtonPublicity Photo 2014Author Bio:
Dylan Newton was born and raised in a small town in Upstate New York where the local library was her favorite hang-out. Despite earning a degree in English Literature, Dylan spent more than a decade sidetracked by an executive position in corporate America where she swears she contracted testosterone poisoning. After leaving, she dedicated herself to more estrogen-rich passions, like motherhood, writing romance novels and her never-ending quest for the perfect date night.

Dylan married her high-school sweetheart and they are busy living out their own happily ever after in sunny Florida with their two incredible daughters.

Visit Dylan at her WEBSITE or on FACEBOOK.

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Twelve Brides for Christmas – The Tenth Suitor

Posted on December 22, 2014 by Silver James

On the 10th day of Christmas, I’m happy to welcome Laura Stickland

I’m so pleased to be here today as part of the “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! For a chance to win an electronic copy of my other Christmas novella released this year, MRS. CLAUS AND THE VIKING SHIP, just comment with your answer to this question: As the heroine of THE TENTH SUITOR discovers, Christmas is the perfect time for romance, so what’s the most romantic Christmas gift you ever received? (We’ll need to keep it PG, please!) I’ll bet you have some beautiful stories to share!

I will be choosing one random comment by noon tomorrow for the free e-copy of my magical story, so be sure to comment below!
I think it’s such a lovely idea to have twelve wonderful Christmas tales about brides and true love. Here’s a little bit about my book, THE TENTH SUITOR, including an excerpt and some buy links for you! Thanks for stopping by, and I hope everyone has a warm and wonderful holiday season!

THE TENTH SUITOR Blurb:
When Edwina Armstrong’s father invites ten titled lords to spend Christmas at his estate so Edwina may choose one for a husband, she finds the idea romantic. She dreams of gazing into the eyes of one of her suitors and falling deep in love. But it soon becomes apparent the lords in question are far more interested in gaining her father’s estate than Edwina’s hand.

Thorstan’s in attendance but he hasn’t been invited and he’s no lord. A former mercenary, he’s come disguised as a fool to get near Edwina, long adored from afar. Edwina quickly falls for his charm and quirky humor even though she fears her father will never approve of a commoner for her husband. But when Edwina is abducted, only Thorstan—a skilled swordsman— has hope of rescuing her in time for the promised Christmas wedding.

THE TENTH SUITOR excerpt:
Edwina quickened her steps, and the fool drew her arm more closely against his side. Oh, highly improper, but at the moment she did not care.

A guard stood at the gate. Edwina nodded to him, and they passed into the chill of the evening, and a wash of moonlight.

A stone wall lay to the left; Edwina urged her escort there and drew a deep draught of air. “You are right, Lord Fool. Much better.”

“’Lord Fool’?” he questioned, his mouth beside her ear.

“If you can call me ‘lady,’, I can call you ‘lord.’.” She turned her head and found her face very near his. Aye, most improper – but it was such a luxury to be with a man taller than she.

Too bad he was just a fool.

He leaned on the wall beside her. “My fool’s wisdom tells me you are not enjoying this great pageant staged for your benefit.”

“That I am not.”

“Yet I hear there is much gaiety and frolic yet to come–a play, and even a masked dance.”

“Aye. Perhaps you can attend as a fool.”

“Perhaps I will. If I do, will you dance with me?” He caught both her hands and, in true fool’s fashion, whirled her about in the cold air until her breath came fast and she laughed aloud. Edwina could no longer hear the music from inside, but the fool hummed a tune in a deep, velvety voice. The moonlight flickered around them, striping his face in brightness and then shadow until all she could see was the laughter in his eyes. When they came to rest at last, she leaned against him.

“You should laugh more often,” he said. “It makes you even more beautiful.”

Suddenly Edwina felt breathless from more than the whirling dance.

Buy Links for THE TENTH SUITOR:
AMAZON | WILD ROSE PRESS | BARNES & NOBLE | KOBO

Laura Strickland Publicity PhotoAuthor Web Page:
Author Bio:
Born and raised in Western New York, Laura Strickland has pursued lifelong interests in lore, legend, magic and music, all reflected in her writing. Though her imagination frequently takes her to far off places, she is usually happiest at home not far from Lake Ontario with her husband and her “fur” child, a rescue dog. Author of the Scottish romance Devil Black as well as The Guardians of Sherwood Trilogy consisting of Daughter of Sherwood, Champion of Sherwood and Lord of Sherwood, she is currently working on the second book of a new Steampunk romance series and has two Christmas novellas releasing this season: The Tenth Suitor and Mrs. Claus and the Viking Ship. You can connect with Laura at her WEBSITE

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Twelve Brides for Christmas – A Case for Calamity

Posted on December 20, 2014 by Silver James

On this 8th day of Christmas, let’s welcome the fantabulous McKenzie Crowne as she shares info about her book A CASE FOR CALAMITY!

Blurb:
For Jane Whitmore, agreeing to switch identities with her best friend seems like innocent fun, but spending a romantic night in Paris with a man who doesn’t know her real name turns out to be a lark gone bad. When their one night of passion proves to have lasting results, tracking down Gabe Sutton and telling him he’s about to be the father of her child is just another calamity Jane would rather avoid. After years of avoiding long-term romantic entanglements, Gabe has found a woman he might just be able to build a life with, only to have her disappear. When he finally finds her, his belief in happily-ever-after staggers under the weight of deception, and looming fatherhood leaves him with two choices: fight her for custody of his future child or cling to the promise of true love.

Excerpt:
“He doesn’t even know my name. What am I supposed to do? Walk up to him and say, ‘Hi Gabe. I’m the chick who tricked you into believing I was Michael Austin’s daughter two months ago in Paris. Oh, and by the way, I’m having your baby?’”

“I was thinking more along the lines of, ‘Hi, Gabe. I’m the chick who snuck out of your hotel room in Paris before you could say Good morning, beautiful. By the way, I had a really good time—and six orgasms. Oh, and I’m having your baby. Want to get a pizza?’”

Jane laughed at Shae’s cheeky grin, then shoved her fingers through her hair. “Right. That’ll work.”

“I googled him. You’re right. He’s hawt! He left his number that morning in Paris.” She smiled slyly. “It’s in my phone. You should call him.”

Jane snorted. “I don’t think giving Gabe Sutton a booty call would be a good idea. Besides, I’m on a sabbatical from men.”

Shae waggled her brows. “What’s that old saying? When you fall off a horse, you need to climb right back on?”

Mac has a very important question to ask all of you, so be sure to comment because…FREE BOOKS! Here’s Mac’s Question: Solid lights or colors?

And her answer: I prefer solid white lights these days but we simply had to have colors when my boys were little. They proclaimed solid light trees boring. 😉

Here are the details on her GIVEAWAY: I’ll be gifting an e-copy of one of my TWRP titles to three separate winners chosen randomly from all commenters. Winners’ choice.

Mac has some great books out there to pick from, especially if you already own A CASE FOR CALAMITY!

BUY LINKS:
WILD ROSE PRESS | AMAZON | KOBO | BARNES & NOBLE

Want to connect with Mac? Just click!
WILD ROSE PRESS AUTHOR PAGE | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | MAC’S WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

McKenzie Crowne Head shot 2014Author bio:
Wife, mother and really young grandmother, Mac lives with her high school sweet heart husband, a neurotic Pomeranian, and a blind cat. She calls Phoenix home because the southwest feeds her soul. Though her friends claim she’s a princess, she disagrees. After all, one can’t raise two rambunctious boys to wonderful men without getting a little dirt under their nails. A lover of the romance genre, her resolve to share her stories with others was sharpened by a bout with breast cancer. Today she is an award-winning, multi-published author and seven year survivor, living the dream.

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Twelve Brides of Christmas – Seven Swans Bride

Posted on December 19, 2014 by Silver James

On the seventh day of the Christmas, we welcome Donna Dalton!

Thank you so much for hosting me today for the “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! My book, “Seven Swans Bride” is the seventh stanza of the Twelve Days of Christmas which includes seven swans a’ swimming – and of course a bride. This sweet historical romance is set just after the American civil war.

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of “Seven Swans Bride” comment below with your answer to my holiday question. I will be choosing one random comment by noon EDST tomorrow, so scroll down and leave a comment!

Do you have any holiday traditions that have been passed down through the years from generation to generation? If so, I’d love to hear about them. If not, just list a tradition you’d like to see started.

Here’s a little bit about my book, “Seven Swans Bride”, including an excerpt and some buy links for you! Thanks again for stopping by, and don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN!!! 😀

Seven Swans Bride Blurb:
Family comes first for Abigail Whitlock. She’ll do anything to make it home to Seven Swans in time for Christmas and to attend her sister’s wedding – even if it means braving unforgiving mountainous terrain, fickle winter weather, and a captivating escort who threatens to steal her heart.

Country and duty come before all else for Major Evander Holt. He’s scheduled to arrive at his new assignment by year’s end, but a rockslide, a wily politician, and a headstrong, impetuous lady put his travel plans on hold. He doesn’t need to come to her rescue, and he certainly doesn’t need to fall in love with her. But there’s something about Abigail he can’t resist…even if it means risking his career.

Seven Swans Bride Excerpt:
Evander moved into the station house and closed the door behind him. Passengers littered the floor like routed soldiers, some sitting on trunks, others standing in small groups, their faces creased with apprehension. Even the children were subdued. The sudden cessation of their trip had everyone battle-shocked.

On the other side of the room near the ticket counter, Miss Whitlock and Congressman Jones had their gazes locked on him. One looked as though she’d swallowed a dose of castor oil. The other wore a satisfied grin. Were those expressions for him? Neither was particularly welcoming.

Miss Whitlock broke off her stare and fiddled with her crooked hat feather. Hair the color of sun-ripened wheat poured out from beneath her hat and framed her pretty face now flushed a charming shade of pink. He couldn’t see her eyes from across the distance, but he recalled their intensity as he held her close after the sudden braking of the train. They were deep blue, like a bottomless ocean, one a less sentient man might drown in.

Buy links:
THE WILD ROSE PRESS (all formats) | AMAZON

ddaltonAuthor BIO:

Donna Dalton uses the rich history of her home state of Virginia and the American Civil War to create action-packed, emotional romances. Her favorite pastime is to tour the many battlefields and museums and bring those places to life in her stories. She has four full-length historical novels published with The Wild Rose Press as well as several contemporary short stories. You can visit her WEBSITE or on FACEBOOK!

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Twelve Brides of Christmas – Six Geese for Monica

Posted on December 18, 2014 by Silver James

On this sixth day of Christmas Brides, please welcome Brenda Gayle!

SixGeeseForMonica_w9216_750Thank you so much for hosting me today. I love Christmas stories, so when The Wild Rose Press asked me to contribute to its Twelve Brides of Christmas anthology, I jumped at the opportunity. What could be more wonderful than a series that involves brides, Christmas, and one of the “gifts” of the famous Twelve Days of Christmas song? Of course, I hadn’t fully realized considered that I’d have to work “six geese a-laying” into my plot, but that just made it more fun.

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of SIX GEESE FOR MONICA let me know: What is a typical Christmas meal at your home?

I’ll start: Turkey is an absolute essential at my Christmas table. I’ve tried to convince my family to be adventurous and try ham or goose (which would be very awkward this year), but they’ll have none of it. In addition, there’s usually mashed potatoes, green beans, and a squash/carrot casserole. Dessert is generally an assortment of baking my mother has provided, as well as a heated Christmas pudding with a decadent hard sauce (essentially an excuse to eat pure sugar blended with a rich cream).

Here’s a little bit about Six Geese for Monica, including an excerpt and some buy links for you. Thanks again for stopping by today and please come back tomorrow to meet another Twelve Brides author. And, of course, don’t forget to comment for a chance to win the book. I’ll be randomly picking one comment tomorrow.

Six Geese for Monica Blurb:
Seven years ago Monica Stevens left her home town with no intention of returning. Her inability to conceive a child not only devastated her fifteen-year marriage, it made her doubt her appeal as a woman. When her mother has to undergo surgery, she reluctantly agrees to come back and run the Mother Goose Daycare.

Luke Donovan is struggling to balance his career with his duties as a single father to six adopted children. The death of his wife has thrown the adoption of their two youngest sons into limbo. He is further stymied by a dogmatic social worker who questions whether a single parent can adequately care for so many children.

Initially brought together by the children, Monica and Luke quickly surrender to their growing passion. But when she learns about the threatened adoption, Monica wonders if Luke’s interest in her is only as a mother to his children. Is history about to repeat itself, or will a Christmas miracle finally give Monica the family she’s always dreamed of having?

Six Geese for Monica Excerpt:
“Gotta love the Internet. There’s a music stream for every situation.” He took a step toward her and held out his hand. “Wanna dance?”

Monica allowed the music to move through her as she and Luke danced through Culture Club, Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical,” and Hall and Oates’ “Maneater.” She hadn’t heard this music in years and it brought back feelings of being young and free, and a sense of the wild abandon she’d experienced on the high school dance floor.

The mood shifted as the attic filled with the first strains of “Sailing” by Christopher Cross. That, too, brought back high school memories of those awkward moments when you didn’t know if the boy you were dancing with was willing to slow dance with you or if he was going to abandon you on the dance floor.

Luke didn’t hesitate. He wrapped both arms around her waist as if it was the most natural thing in the world. She reached up to encircle his neck, and rested her head against his chest. She could hear his heart beating, steady and firm. He was steady and firm. He smelled wonderful, a mixture of his woodsy aftershave with the softly sweet scent of the soap used by both him and his children.

He was a good dancer, his moves confident and clear. It was obviously something he’d done a lot of. Jeff hadn’t liked to dance—typical jock—and she’d missed it during their time together—and after. How long since she’d been held on a dance floor? Or not on the dance floor, for that matter?

A good dancer. A good husband. A good father. Why couldn’t she have met Luke, or someone like him, twenty years ago?

Buy Links: AMAZON KINDLE | WILD ROSE PRESS (all formats)

Brenda_1Author Bio:
I’ve been a writer all my life but returned to my love of fiction after more than 20 years in the world of corporate communications—although some might argue there is plenty of opportunity for fiction-writing there, too. I have a Master’s degree in journalism and an undergraduate degree in psychology. A fan of many genres, I am drawn to contemporary romance and enjoy creating deeply emotional stories with elements of mystery and suspense.

I live in eastern Ontario (Canada) with my wonderful husband, two fabulous children, a rescued cat, two Siberian Huskies, and assorted aquatic wildlife. You can connect with me through my WEBSITE and on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and GOODREADS.

Posted in Books, Writing Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments