October 26, 2024 · 11:37 am

Twisting Tropes and New Release ~ Fangs, Fur and the Single Girl by Lisabet Sarai

Please help me welcome Lisbeth Sarai…

Twisting Tropes

Like most authors, I write the kind of books I’d like to read. The wide range of genres and styles you’ll find in my back list reflects the diversity of my reading tastes. Check out my books and reviews on Goodreads and you’ll see what I mean.

I tend to value most highly books that are original and surprising. Perhaps the worst sin a story can commit, from my point of view, is to be predictable. Alas, romance is frequently guilty of this transgression. Tropes practically define the genre, especially these days. Authors explicitly label their work according to the tropes it exploits: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, reverse harem, slow burn, secret baby… Nothing turns me off more than knowing, before I even open the book, what is likely to happen.

As an author, I strive for the originality I seek in the work of others. One way I (try to) achieve this is by deliberately twisting tropes and turning clichés on their heads. I delight in up-ending my readers’ expectations. Meanwhile, looking at familiar situations or characters from a fresh perspective provides great opportunities for enriching the narrative.

Few sub-genres are more stereotyped than paranormal romance. Everyone knows that vampires are centuries-old, dark, brooding, and full of power. Werewolves live in packs where roles from alpha to omega are clearly defined. The two races of supernatural creatures rarely encounter one another, but if they do, they are mutually hostile.

My new paranormal romance Fangs, Fur and the Single Girl plays with these  well-trodden themes. My vampire hero has been undead for a mere six years; he was turned by accident. My werewolf has never met another of his kind. And although the two initially hate one another, their love for my heroine eventually overcomes their antipathy.

I do hope I can coax readers to step outside their comfort zone a bit and take a chance on this tale of love, lust, power and commitment. You might not recognize the tropes, but I do guarantee a happy ending.

ON SALE for ONLY 99 cents!!!

Blurb

The city is full of fanatics who believe vampires are real. Bianca knows that’s a fantasy. Then a blond, blue-eyed blood drinker walks into her office and turns her universe upside down. Trying to escape from the vampire’s seductive influence, she collides with a wolf shifter whose mere presence inspires irresistible lust. How can Bianca resolve her feelings for her two mutually hostile lovers?

Excerpt

The blond vampire reached over to her dressing table to pick up a leather-bound notebook. “It’s lucky you use a physical day planner instead of a calendar app.” He sighed again, apparently out of habit. “I admit, I came looking for you tonight. I was desperate to see you. I thought we should discuss—well, I’ll be honest, I was weak. I imagined that perhaps we could—I kept remembering your warmth, your scent…” He shook his head as his voice trailed off. “It’s so easy to deceive myself. To let the hunger think for me.”

“Oh, Jim!” She bounced off the bed and enfolded him in her arms. Though his skin was like cool marble, fire sizzled through her at the contact. A steady pulse beat between her legs. An ache grew in her chest, an echo of his pain. She could soothe him, heal him, if only he’d allow it. Leaning in, she pressed her lips to his, silently urging him to surrender.

For a fraction of a second, she felt his answering passion. Then he turned his head away to break the connection.

“Don’t. Please. Don’t tempt me, Bianca.” Extricating himself from her clutches, he pinned her with his gaze. His normally blue eyes deepened to wells of blackness. “Stay away from vampires, for your own safety. Away from me, and definitely away from that harpy at the club.”

“How did you arrange for the police? Did they really have a warrant?”

Jim’s embarrassment was obvious. “It seems I have some ability to plant ideas in the minds of suggestible individuals. I didn’t realize I had that kind of power, but when I saw that creature—Elena? —messing with your thoughts, I figured I had to try.”

“Well, I’m very grateful. I probably should have known better than to accept her invitation in the first place.”

Jim rose from his chair and began to pace. “I agree. You took a grave risk.”

Bianca slumped back down on the bed, her eyes following his back-and-forth progress. “But she’s a business associate. Elena Lazarescu’s a major force in the vampire ecosystem. She’s a wizard at branding. Just think about how many potential subscribers she could deliver…”

He whirled to face her. “Bianca! Just listen to yourself! ‘Vampire ecosystem’? ‘Wizard at branding’? After you came close to being Elena’s victim! Didn’t you see what was going on at her club? Pathetic humans being drained to feed her blood hunger and that of her clique. This isn’t about business or marketing, fashion or fads.”

“But—”

“Your readers live in a fantasy world, but vampires are real. And they’re not trendy, romantic or sexy. They’re monsters, driven by an insatiable craving they’ll do anything to satisfy.” The young man glared at her, fists clenched at his sides. “I’m a monster, Bianca—no matter how I try to fool myself.”

She was on her feet again, hand on his arm. “No, Jim—you’re not like her. You’d never hurt me.”

He yanked himself from her grasp. “I already have, don’t you see? This bond between us—”

“So you feel it, too…”

“It’s the blood, Bianca, the blood we’ve shared. Nothing more. And it will destroy us both if we let it.”

Buy Links

Kinky Literature – https://www.kinkyliterature.com/book/1508-fangs-fur-and-the-single-girl/

Amazon  US – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXF755SM

Amazon UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CXF755SM

Smashwords – https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1540924

Barnes and Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fangs-fur-and-the-single-girl-lisabet-sarai/1145179250?ean=2940167695276

Kobo – https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/fangs-fur-and-the-single-girl

Apple Books – https://books.apple.com/us/book/x/id6480071026

Add on Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210320373-fangs-fur-and-the-single-girl

Add on Bookbub – https://www.bookbub.com/books/fangs-fur-and-the-single-girl-by-lisabet-sarai

About Lisabet

Lisabet Sarai became addicted to words at an early age. She began reading when she was four. She wrote her first story at five years old and her first poem at seven. Since then, she has written plays, tutorials, scholarly articles, marketing brochures, software specifications, self-help books, press releases, a five-hundred page dissertation, and lots of erotica and erotic romance – over one hundred titles, and counting, in nearly every sub-genre—paranormal, scifi, ménage, BDSM, GLBT, and more. Regardless of the genre, every one of her stories illustrates her motto: Imagination is the ultimate aphrodisiac.

You’ll find information and excerpts from all Lisabet’s books on her website (http://www.lisabetsarai.com/books.html), along with more than fifty free stories and lots more. At her blog Beyond Romance (http://lisabetsarai.blogspot.com), she shares her philosophy and her news and hosts lots of other great authors. She’s also on Goodreads, BookBub and Twitter. Join her VIP email list here: https://btn.ymlp.com/xgjjhmhugmgh

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October 16, 2024 · 9:21 am

Author Susan Harris Howell – Four Lessons I Learned from My Desk & New Release: The Spirit of Vanderlaan #ParanormalCozyMystery

Please help me welcome Susan Harris Howell…

Four Lessons I Learned from My Desk

My new desk came to me in 483 pieces—slats, panels, and hardware wrapped in plastic bags for “easy delivery and assembly.” My daughter commented that the company might have just sent me a tree and an ice pick for the work it would require.

I sat on the floor surrounded by debris that looked nothing like a desk. I would have curled up on the floor to cry if I had had enough floor space to do so. This was an impossible task.

But I could no more repack that box than I could unring a bell. So, I picked up the forty-eight-page instruction booklet, turned to page one, and put the “twist-lock fasteners into outer ends A and C.”

That first step was the beginning of a three-day process which led to the beautiful desk I now adore. It also taught me a few things about another “impossible” task I would soon face – writing my first novel.

Here’s what I learned.

Lesson One: Just do today’s work.

As I thumbed through the encyclopedic-sized instruction manual, I knew I’d have to narrow my focus. So, I concentrated on step one without mentally moving on to steps two or three. This helped me begin and keep moving.

Likewise, when writing a book, we often work best by tackling one manageable task at a time without mentally wandering into steps two, three, or beyond. Narrowing our focus can move us forward.

Lesson Two: Be confident.

That first day, colleagues dropped by to offer condolences. I assumed they would know more than I and would have secrets to share on furniture assembly. Sadly, none of them did; there were no secrets.   

Similarly, when we have a story to tell, we can’t assume someone else will tell it better. They have their own stories to write, their own desks to assemble. My story is my story; your story is yours. Be confident in the telling.

Lesson Three: Use available resources.

When my husband offered our power drill, I declined since the instructions said power tools weren’t necessary. On day two, I grabbed that power drill and didn’t let go. Using the right tool made the task easier.

Likewise, when writing, we can avail ourselves of quality resources. Books, conferences, blogs and podcasts – a lot of information is out there. Find it and use it.

Lesson Four: Let others participate.

Throughout the desk-a-thon, I posted pictures and progress reports on social media. Friends across several states watched with interest and celebrated the finished product.

In the same way, writing is richer when others walk alongside us. Whether they read each draft, encourage our persistence, or subscribe to our newsletter, many will participate if we invite them. Don’t go it alone.

The take-away?

My desk now serves as a daily reminder of what I can accomplish when I focus on today’s work, remain confident, use available resources, and invite others to join me.

I hope these lessons encourage you in your next “impossible” endeavor.

Thank you for joining me, Susan. Great article…I love the analogy of assembling the desk and writing. And I love the helpful reminders. Now, please tell us about your book…

Was it coincidence that brought them together – or a ghost with a purpose?

Excerpt:

Samantha reached out to hold Chess’s shaking hand only to immediately regret it. The stickiness of dried blood would have made her recoil, but she refused to desert Chess, who squeezed her hand like a frightened child. So while Allie returned Chess’s skates and answered the questions of concerned friends, Samantha stayed put. She only hoped the pounding of her own heart would not attract attention and require an explanation.

After Chess’s wound was cleaned and bandaged, Allie stated that she would drive Chess to the ER. “I can’t ride in your new car. My clothes are all -” She grimaced at her blood-stained shirt.  

“The blood’s dry. It’ll be fine. Besides, think how fast my car will get us there.” She directed Chess’s attention away from the injury.

Samantha pointed to Allie. “Keep it under the limit, missy.” Samantha disliked conceding the role of caregiver to someone else, but Allie had things under control. Besides, it couldn’t be helped.

Samantha quickly walked toward the women’s restroom, which, thankfully, was empty, went in, and locked the door. With deep, shaky breaths, and no longer fighting the tears, Samantha moved immediately to the sink where she scrubbed her hands vigorously, several times. She reached into her purse for her cell phone, scrolled quickly through her contacts, and tapped her thumb on the one she sought.

She took a deep breath when instructed to leave a message. “Debra, this is Samantha Hayes. Could you give me a call please? I need to talk to you.” She waited a moment, decided she had said all she needed to for now, then added, “Thanks,” before ending the call.

She continued to hold her cell, however, as she paced, all the while trying her best to take even, measured breaths. Think of something else. You’ve washed your hands. You’re safe. You’ll talk to Debra when she calls back. Breathe. She was surprised that her reaction was this intense. The sight of blood had not frightened her this much in a long time.

As she debated whether to stay or go home to await Debra’s call, her cell rang, making her jump. With another shaky breath and a sigh of relief, she answered. “Debra? Thanks for calling… Okay… actually, no I’m not okay. I hate to bother you, but something just happened.”

9) Buy link:

About the Author:

Dr. Susan Harris Howell is a psychology professor who has taught and mentored students for over thirty years. Her novel, The Spirit of Vanderlaan, draws on that career to capture the warmth between a professor and the assortment of personalities which inhabit her office.

Her first book, Buried Talents, focuses on the subtle ways women are discouraged from entering male-dominated occupations.

Susan and her husband have two grown children, a daughter-in-law, one adorable grandson, and an incorrigible beagle named Doc.

Website: susanharrishowell.com                                      

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susan_h_howell/

Email List & Monthly Blog:  susanharrishowell.substack.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susanhowellwriter

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October 15, 2024 · 10:08 am

Author Interview with Margaret Izard ~ New Release: Stone of Lust #ParanormalRomance

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Margaret Izard…

Hello Margaret, thank you for joining me today. Please tell us a little about yourself, where are you from? Where do you live now? Family? Pets? 

My name is Margaret Izard. I live in Houston, Texas, with my family of adult triplets, my loving husband, two doggies, and a cat. I’m a previous professional dancer in ballet, modern jazz, tap, and other dance forms. I’ve been involved in the arts since I could walk, and I love to tell tall tales about fantastic events. I love any holiday and enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. On most hot Texas days, if I’m not at my laptop, I’m in the pool trying to say cool. I keep busy with not only writing but many hobbies. I enjoy hearing from my readers.

Where did you get the idea for Stone of Lust?

Lust is one of the Stones of Iona, and magic Fae stones are featured in my series.

The idea for the stones came from research for my series, Stones of Iona. In early research, I read about the Stone of Destiny, or the coronation stone, traveling through Scotland and stopping at Dunstaffnage Castle. When I learned about the Stone of Destiny and its rumored birthplace, Iona Island, I asked myself, what if the stone was magic? What if many stones were magic, and what would that mean? As I delved into research on Scotland, I found that many of its beliefs link to its folklore. These rich stories of worlds beyond ours became essential in capturing this country, its people, and its culture and bringing them to life.

Why did you choose this genre (is it something you’ve written in before)?

I love historical paranormal romances. Writing about the two sub-genres of time travel and history came from my vast reading. I had stories inside me that craved to be told. So, I started writing.

Was there anything unusual, any anecdote about this book, the characters, title, process, etc, you’d like to share?

When I first outlined Stone of Lust, it weaved two stories into one, each dependent on the other, as both found a resolution. One element of the story has vexed me for some time, and when my stories do that, I delve into the World Wide Web, searching history. Usually, there’s something that I read that sparks inspiration, and a solution evolves from that.

The day I found the Brooch of Lorne, a highland brooch created by the Lord of Lorne, a MacDougall ancestor, designed to hold stones and one of three rare left today, I nearly jumped from the chair, cheering. This was the answer! (Which I can’t share here without spoiling the book.) I called it a gift from research. Incorporating it into the story resolved a major plot point and opened the door for other places where I could use the relic in other books. It was such a great gift. This isn’t the only book you’ll see, the Brooch of Lorne, so look for it in future books coming soon!

What is the most difficult thing about writing a book?

My books aren’t linear. I like to call it a story with “meat on the bone.” For the Stones of Iona Series, there’s not only a romance story for each book but an underlying story driving the series forward: the hunt for the magic Fae stones. The challenge, which I love, is weaving these stories together to where they merge into one and make sense. Each book is a love story; the series is one long saga of finding lost magic stones.

Fun fact: A second series called Dragons of Tantallon is connected to this one, featuring dragon shapeshifters introduced in Stone of Love, book 1, Stones of Iona.

What was the most difficult thing about this one in particular?

The hardest part of this story was weaving Ainslie’s love story within the kidnapping plotline of her sister-in-law, Brielle, the main character from Stone of Love, and the storyline of the search for a magic Stone of Iona. Three distinct plot threads are dependent yet not. The first challenge was choosing the best places where these stories intersect and overlap. The second challenge was ensuring each plot thread found a resolution by the end of the book. It’s one of my darkest and most challenging books. I hope readers enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Are there any tricks, habits or superstitions you have when creating a story?

Research. When I start outlining a story, I begin with research. When I’m stuck on a story, I dive into research. So many ideas have come from reading about our past and present day. It only takes one spark, and a story develops from there.

Do you have another occupation, other than writer? If so, what is it and do you like it?

I’ve had multiple different careers: professional ballerina, dance teacher, marketing, and sales, but people pick up this one from my bio all the time: Triplet mom. Yes, I have adult triplets, and it’s a job. Everyone asks – two boys and a girl.

Once they hit grade school, I quit my day job and dedicated myself to their upbringing and education. (I tutored them through college). Did I like it? Yes and no. Some days were a blast and others a challenge, but I wouldn’t change it. They are my hellions on earth, and I love them. Every day is an adventure.

After they had completed college, I decided to take back my life and started writing.

Do you collect anything?

Earrings. I love different earrings.

I also collect art. I love Peter Max. Years ago an employer (He had commissioned the artist to do a family portrait) took me to Peter Max’s studios in New York, where I met the artist. I witnessed him work, and came away with a personalized signed poster. It hangs in my game room. I have three lithographs of his work.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read your book?

My romances focus on how people form connections. They explore the notion of fated love and true love. I hope each person comes away from my stories with hope. Hope for themselves and the relationships they form in their own lives.

What actors would you like in the main roles if your book were made into a movie?

The irony of this question is I have a pictorial memory. My leads already have an image I’ve modeled them after.

Stone of Love – Colin MacDougall is Henry Cavill, and Brielle DeVolt is Anne Hathaway
Stone of Fear – John MacArthur is Richard Rankin, and Marie is Freya Mavor
Stone of Lust – Rannick is Clive Standen and Ainslie is Kristie Mitchell

What genre have you never written that you’d like to write?

Contemporary Romance – I have a few ideas on what I’d like to write next after my two paranormal romance series.

Have you written any other books that are not published?

Yes. Years ago, I wrote short stories, but out of a lack of confidence in my writing, I threw them all out.

What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

Early on, criticism was hard to handle, even after all my dance training, which had a lot of criticism. But as I worked on my craft, I looked to feedback as a gift. If I didn’t get the response from a reader I wanted, I went back and looked at what I needed to improve to get the message I wanted across. I still do this today.

Best Compliment. There have been many over the years, but my publishing editor’s reaction to my latest submission, Stone of Doubt, book 4 Stones of Iona series, is the most recent. After reading the synopsis, she sent an email complimenting my creativity. An hour later, she emailed again and admitted she had read the epilogue first to find out where the next book, Stone of Faith, Book 6, would go, and then she complimented my creativity again. Her first word was “WOW!” Best compliment – my editor read the end first!

Thanks, Margaret. I enjoyed your interview. Wow, triplets? That must have been interesting. 😊 Please tell us about your book…

Blurb:

She dreams of a Viking warrior with Fae-blue eyes and a God-like body that makes her heart pound like no other. Trying to save her kidnapped sister-in-law, Ainslie follows her back to the Vikings of Scotland, where she faces the very man who has haunted her dreams.

When Jarl, Rannick MacRaghnaill meets the alluring Warrior Woman who helped steal his warship, she dresses in clothing so strange that every curve teases his senses. But is she, as she claims, a woman from the future or an irresistible lying thief?

She’d risk her life to save her sister-in-law. He’d risk his honor to win her heart.

Can both hardened warriors save the realms from the evilest of Fae’s minds combined with the most dangerous of humans?

Excerpt:

Ainslie smoothed her hand over his firm fist, and he relaxed it a little. She understood his warrior’s heart. The desire to control the fierce energy within him that wanted to wage war but still needed to be gentle with his friends and family. The people he loved deeply. Maybe if she explained how she saw the bloodlust, he might understand the balance between the two.

She continued to caress his fist as she whispered, “Bloodlust is something every fighter has, Rannick. Even women.”

He stared at her hand, gently stroking his, and he relaxed a little more.

Her fingers trailed along his knuckles. “Fighting comes in many forms, not just the sword a warrior wields, but a mother’s fight to bring an infant into the world, a husband’s fight to hunt for food for his family, a warrior’s fight to defend his land.”

She opened his fingers and lightly brushed hers along his palm, from his fingertips to his wrist and back. “A child’s fight to survive in a hard world.” She slowly traced the lines in his hand. “Using the bloodlust for the right reasons and causes is the art of being a great warrior.”

Rannick glanced at his hand, then her face. His free hand came to her cheek and caressed it.

He used his thumb to tilt her head till their eyes connected. “Warrior for the children, woman of war. Is yer bloodlust only for the children?”

Ainslie gazed into Rannick’s bright blue eyes and became lost. She spoke before she thought. “Everyone, I fight for everyone. Who does yer bloodlust fight for, Rannick?”

He leaned toward her, and their breaths mingled. “I fight for many things.” He licked his lips and spoke softly. “But tonight, I use it to pursue the woman I love.”

Buy link:

https://linktr.ee/mizardauthor

About the Author:

Margaret Izard is a multi-award-winning author of historical fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She spent her early years through college and adulthood dedicated to dance, theater, and performing. Over the years, she developed a love for great storytelling in different mediums. She does not waste a good story, be it movement, the spoken, or the written word. She discovered historical romance novels in middle school, which combined her passion for romance, drama, and fantasy. She writes exciting plot lines, steamy love scenes and always falls for a strong male with a soft heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and adult triplets and loves to hear from readers.

www.margaretizrdauthor.com

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October 8, 2024 · 1:20 pm

Author Nikki Knight – This Thing We Do & New Release: Live, Local, and Long Dead  #Mystery #CozyMystery #wrpbks #Hobby #Career #Passion

 Please help me welcome today’s guest, Nikki Knight…

This Thing We Do

“You do this because you can’t do anything else.”

            My first news director, at KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, said it to me a couple decades ago at the job interview.

            He meant, radio is the only business that would make you happy.

            He was right about me. And I was right about the main character in LIVE, LOCAL, AND LONG DEAD when I gave her the same line.

            While Jaye Jordan is a DJ and station owner, and I’m a New York City news anchor, we both came up through local radio, and we both love it.

            If you didn’t grow up with a local radio station – and a lot of people don’t now – I’m sorry for you. We live in better and healthier communities when we start the day with a familiar voice telling us about what’s happening in town, not just major news stories, but local events. Everything from the fender-bender by the plaza that’s delaying the school buses to the fundraiser for the food bank. The kind of things a national news network, or the TV station in the big city up the road, would never have time or energy for…but matter a lot in a small community.

            Just a typical day at a small local station.

            It’s important on a typical day, but it’s life-or-death in a disaster.

            In theory, when a small radio station is sold and handed over to a satellite feed – usually talk, but sometimes music or other programming – it’s still able to broadcast emergency information for its town. The automation should be able to take transmissions from the Emergency Alert System and send them on to the community. But that’s a big SHOULD when the water is rising or the ice falling.

            And even if the automation does what it’s supposed to do, there’s no live person at the station. No one to take calls from local authorities with warnings, no one to broadcast information about available services. And no one to offer a friendly voice on the battery powered radio that may be a family’s only connection to the world for a while.

            I’ve been that voice, during hurricanes in New York and winter storms in Vermont. And, other than raising my son, it’s the most important thing I’ve ever done. If you’re alone in the dark, you need someone to tell you how long it’s going to last, who’s going to help you, and that you’re going to make it. A confident, informed, and professional voice.

            And a local one.

            Jaye Jordan has the same experience, and the same deep bond with her work and her community. It’s not just a marketing slogan that she calls WSV “Your Hometown Station.”

            Everyone deserves one.

            Jaye’s love for local radio, and mine, shines through LIVE, LOCAL, AND LONG DEAD. And we’re thrilled to welcome you to our hometown station.


GIVEAWAY: One random commenter wins an e-ARC of LIVE, LOCAL, AND LONG DEAD.

In LIVE, LOCAL, AND LONG DEAD, DJ Jaye Jordan returns to look into not one but two murders – one involving her ex and her new man– and get Grandpa Seymour ready for the Senior Prom!

Excerpt:

“It looks like a body in there, Chief.” Sadie’s words left room for doubt, but her voice did not.

“I’ll take a look.” Chief George handed the rock to me because I was closest, and his face hardened from fun day out to on-duty.

And just when you thought it couldn’t get more serious, it did.

I felt something strange and sharp on the underside of the rock through my work gloves. I looked down at it.

It looked back at me.

Well, it would have if there’d been anything in the smooth, empty eye sockets. It seemed to be grinning, a perfectly imperfect smile with a little chip in one of the front teeth.

“Chief?” I asked. “I think we have another problem.”

I figured it was the worst moment of the day.

Famous last words.

Maybe half an hour later, everyone was standing around waiting for the M.E. and the Staties, and whoever was responsible for skulls, and I was still holding the poor thing. By then I had noticed the jagged hole near the temple and come to the conclusion whoever it was had not left this earth easily or willingly.

Chief George had been in the building, and he came out carrying a large, expensive purse…still in good shape, metallic leather, a brand that would have cost me a month’s salary in New York, made even more costly and special by the name engraved on a brass plate on the side. It was below the status logo, so it must have been the name of the owner: Jecca.

“I think I knew her.”

It would have been bad enough if I’d heard one voice saying it in a tone that left no doubt as to how they’d known her.

But it was two. The worst possible two.

David, no surprise, really…and Will.

I looked down at the skull. It was probably a grave sin to break heads with an actual head.

Buy link: Live, Local, and Long Dead – The Wild Rose Press Inc

About the Author:

Nikki Knight describes herself as an Author/Anchor/Mom…not in that order. An award-winning weekend anchor at New York City’s 1010 WINS Radio, she writes short stories and novels, including the Vermont Radio and Grace the Hit Mom Series. Her stories have appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, Mystery Magazine, Black Cat Weekly, online, and in anthologies – and been short-listed for Black Orchid Novella and Derringer Awards. Active in writers’ groups, she’s served as Vice President of the Short Mystery Fiction Society and is currently Co-Vice President of the New York/Tri-State Chapter of Sisters in Crime. As Kathleen Marple Kalb, she writes the Ella Shane and Old Stuff mystery series. She, her husband, and son live in a Connecticut house owned by their cat.

Website:  https://kathleenmarplekalb.com/nikki-knight

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiKnightAuthor

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NikkiKnightVT

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathleenmarplekalb/

Other: YouTube: NIKKI KNIGHT’S RADIO STORYTIME – YouTube  

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October 5, 2024 · 10:55 am

Sheila Kell in in the Spotlight with His Chance #RomanticSuspense

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Sheila Kell…

Can he survive saving her?

Excerpt:

On his own, Devon pulled the SAT phone from his pack and dialed Jesse. While waiting for an answer, he slung his backpack over his shoulder and turned in the direction of the cabin. Half walking, half stumbling, he cursed Jesse for not answering.

Tripping over a protruding tree root, he plummeted to the ground with a resounding thud as he hadn’t reacted in time to catch himself. “Oomph.” Sucking wind into his burning lungs and swallowing down the raging throb throughout his body, he wanted to remain in that spot and rest. But, he knew he couldn’t. His stomach lurched at the thought that Chuck and company were probably gone, but he would still check.

“Where the fuck are you, Jesse? I can’t believe I was so stupid to think I could do this without the team,” Devon chided himself.

“By the looks of you, I’d have to agree.”

Devon groaned at his older brother. “How the hell do you do that? I didn’t even hear you.”

A cocky grin split Jesse’s face. “It’s a gift.”

Buy links:

His Chance

About the Author:

Sheila Kell writes about romantic men who leave women’s hearts pounding with a happily ever after built on memorable, adrenaline-pumping stories. Her debut novel, His Desire (HIS Series #1), launched as an Amazon #1 romantic suspense bestseller, later winning the Readers’ Favorite award for best romantic suspense novel.

Having left behind her days in the United States Air Force and as a University Vice President, she can usually be found on the Mississippi coast, where she lives with her cats and all the strays that magically find her front door. When she isn’t writing, you can find Sheila with her nose in a good book, dealing with the woodland critters who enjoy her back patio, or wishing she had a genie to do her bidding. 

For more information….

Sign up for Sheila’s newsletter: http://www.sheilakell.com/subscribe

Find Sheila on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheilakellbooks

Follow Sheila on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sheila-kell

Follow Sheila on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/sheilakell

Find Sheila on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Sheila_Kell

Contact Sheila for information on her reader group, advance teams, and other ways to follow: sheila@sheilakell.com  

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October 1, 2024 · 9:42 am

Music – A Soundtrack for Our Lives by Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy – Upcoming Release: The Cowboy’s Last Chance

Please help me welcome Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy with a topic that’s near and dear to my heart…classic country music. Not the new stuff they’ve been putting out for the last few decades, but the real, classic good stuff. Take it away, Lee Ann…

Music can provide a soundtrack for our lives.  I’ve listened to music all my life, from the early years when I borrowed my parents’ records and used their stereo to my teen years when I got my own. Straight out of college, I worked at a small country music station where I wrote ad copy and eventually had on-air shifts too.  Although I don’t put together playlists, music also provides a soundtrack for my fiction.

My stories and novels often reflect my personal music tastes and in The Cowboy’s Last Chance (The Wild Rose Press, October 21,2024), Calhoun Kelly shares my appreciation. Cal likes the traditional greats from the past, Cash, Williams, He’s a huge fan of the late Johnny Horton, which is no surprise because so am I.

Horton’s grave at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Bossier City, LA.

Cal shares a hometown, Rusk, Texas, with the singer. As they travel from one rodeo to another, Calhoun often sings along to Horton’s music. Although most people think of Johnny’s monster hit, The Battle of New Orleans, Cal and I prefer some of the lesser-known songs. There are songs Horton recorded at home with nothing but his voice as he played the guitar. If you listen closely, a few domestic sounds can be heard. One of these tunes is Down That River Road where Johnny sings about walking home down a river road. He appreciates simple pleasures like sitting on the porch and listening to the rain to fishing with his ever-loving baby sitting beside him.

If interested,  you can hear the song on You Tube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuv1IK9nkM0

I like to think Calhoun Kelly isn’t so very different from Johnny Horton. Both were Texas raised and called the Piney Woods around Rusk home. As far as I know, Johnny never rode bulls but he did perform so that’s a similarity.  Both men are good looking, soft spoken with a sweet Texas draw, and devoted to family. Here’s a little taste from the novel:

“You must really like Johnny Horton,” she commented when the sixth different song by Horton played.

“Pretty Lady, he was a hometown boy.”

“What hometown?” She scooted closer.

“Horton called Rusk home, too. His folks are buried there, so is at least one of his sisters. He graduated from Gallatin, which is just a few miles from Rusk. Besides, he was one of the artists who got famous on The Louisiana Hayride in Shreveport. It was second only to The Grand Old Opry in its day.”

“I’ve heard of it. Nanna’s talked about it, and she has several of Horton’s albums. Until riding with you, I really didn’t know his songs except Battle of New Orleans, Sink The Bismarck, and North To Alaska.”

His fingers tapped out the rhythm from the last song she listed. “Those are the big hits, but I like a lot of his lesser-known music the best. He’s buried east of Bossier City in Haughton, and someday, I’ll show you his house in Shreveport.”

Take a listen as you read and enjoy!

LOVED this post, Lee Ann. Your book sounds fabulous. I also adore Johnny Horton, Hank Sr. and the other great classics. I agree about preferring Johnny’s lesser known songs. I love “One Woman Man,” “All For the Love of a Girl” and “Whispering Pines.” I haven’t heard the one you mentioned but I’ll give it a listen. His grave is beautiful. Such a tragedy he was taken so soon. Thanks for being my guest!

Links: https://wildrosepress.com/product/the-cowboys-last-chance/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-cowboys-last-chance-lee-ann-sontheimer-murphy/1146105247

Also available at Target, Books A Million, Indie Bound, Kobo, Google, and I-Tunes.

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September 28, 2024 · 7:46 am

Diana Rubino’s Halloween Story, Favorite Halloween Recipe, and How a Ghost Helped Solve a Murder in her 1894 Romance FROM HERE TO FOURTEENTH STREET 


Please help me welcome Diana Rubino…

I do paranormal investigations with a group near where I live, and I attended my very first ghost hunt with them a few nights before Halloween. About ten of us visited Old Dunstable Cemetery where some victims of a 1702 Indian massacre are buried. It’s the oldest cemetery in Nashua, dating back from when the land was part of Massachusetts. The earliest burial dates from 1687. Researchers had found the victims’ names, so we were able to locate their gravestones. The only equipment I had at the time were my dowsing rods and a digital camera. While others in the group made their attempts to contact spirits, I stood before a gravestone that read: this Man, with Seven more, that lies in this Grave; was Slew, All in a day, by the Indiens.

Holding my rods, I asked a few questions: Did you die in the massacre? Were you born here? You can only ask simple yes or no questions and ask the rods to cross for yes and separate for no. I got answers to all my questions. I then stood before another stone reading: 

Rev. Thomas Weld, Born June 1653, Settled as the first minister of the church in Dunstable Dec. 1685 

probably massacred by the Indians while defending the settlement June 7, 1702, age 49. All the while, I felt a strong presence, and immediately began feeling dizzy and lightheaded. I found that this happens quite frequently when I ghost hunt. I’ve never seen a ghost, but have felt presences near me, and always get dizzy when I sense someone is nearby. I took several photos throughout the cemetery, and some came out with brightly colored arcs among the tombstones. I didn’t dare visit that graveyard on Halloween night!

How a Ghost Helped Solve a Murder in FROM HERE TO FOURTEENTH STREET

My heroine Vita Caputo lived on Mott Street on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. In 1894, her fiancé Tom’s cousin Mike was found murdered in an alley next to her tenement building. Prejudice against Italian immigrants and the generally corrupt police force went to work accusing and convicting Vita’s father and brother of the crime. As they languished in The Tombs, the infamous prison, Vita, Tom, and gifted medium Jadwiga Wisen held a seance with a Ouija board that spelled out “frame” when Jadwiga asked who the true killer was. Frame? Yes, of course, Vita’s dad and brother were framed–they were innocent. But when Tom went home and looked at his window frame, it gave him an idea–there’s more than one kind of frame. He went to Vita’s apartment, inspected her window frame, and discovered clues that led to the arrest of the true killer of his cousin–I won’t give away any more!

Purchase FROM HERE TO FOURTEENTH STREET on Amazon:

getBook.at/NewYorkSagaBookOne

HAPPY HALLOWEEN HEALTHY PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE

Ingredients:
3/4 cup low fat cottage cheese
2/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp. flour (gluten free if need be)
2 tbsp. honey
1/4 tsp. salt
4 egg whites
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice, no sugar added

Directions:

Place everything in your blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a greased or parchment lined cake pan or a mini scone pan.

Bake at 350 F for 50 minutes.

Optional : When cooled, top with whipped cream 

Enjoy!

1 serving = 1/8 of the entire cake

Carbs: 13 gm

 Connect with me:

www.DianaRubino.com

www.DianaRubinoAuthor.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaRubinoAuthor/?ref=hl

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September 25, 2024 · 5:21 am

A Friday the 13th Horror Short Story: Calendula by Connor Treadway ~ #Fri13thStories #Blog

The thirteenth of thirteen creepy tales of murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th…

Blurb:

Is the ghostly figure haunting a long-forgotten cemetery a restless spirit or a cruel prank?

Passaway, a small town that embodies Old Florida, is quickly developing a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the Sunshine State, much to the dismay of its close-knit residents. The discovery of a long-forgotten cemetery with a dark history attracts the attention of a well-known ghosthunter, who launches an unauthorized investigation into the town and its past.

When shocking footage of an eerie shrouded figure wandering through the crypts and headstones goes viral, Police Chief Michael Ligon and his wife, Ivy, must contend with an influx of supernatural enthusiasts and the celebrity ghosthunter who’s hellbent on making a name for himself at the town’s expense.

Is the specter really a ghost, another of Passaway’s tortured spirits, or just an elaborate hoax? In a town where the unexplained has a way of demanding explanation, the truth will reveal itself but there are some who won’t like it when the past gives up its secrets.

*** Find all the stories here: https://linktr.ee/fridaythe13thstories

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September 24, 2024 · 7:08 am

A Friday the 13th Short Story: On a Cold Winter’s Fright by Kerry Blaisdell ~ #Fri13thStories #Blog

The twelfth of thirteen creepy tales of murder and mayhem on Friday the 13th…

Blurb:

Detective Eric Guilliot has time on his hands. Lots of it. Mainly because he’s dead, and only a select few of the Living can see him, especially those with demon blood. One exception is his non-demon ex, Elaine, but their friendship is newly mended, and he can’t burden her with his troubles. For one thing, she’s happily married. For another, her mafia family, the Bunofiglios, are the ones who forced Eric to abandon her and their son twenty years ago, and who more recently caused Eric’s death.

So when he discovers Elaine’s niece can see him and wants his help solving a decades-old family mystery, it seems like a fun way to pass part of eternity. But as they unravel the scandal of a pregnant nun, her baby, and an attempt to infuse demon blood into the Buonfiglio Family, will the secrets they unearth bring justice…or destroy more lives?

*** Find all the stories here: https://linktr.ee/fridaythe13thstories

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September 23, 2024 · 7:46 am

Author Interview with Mary Ann Jacobs ~ The Berkshire Mystery Series #CozyMystery

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Mary Ann Jacobs with The Berkshire Mystery series: Don’t Mess With Me and Peril in Pitman

Welcome, Mary Ann…please tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in Ohio and lived in Detroit, Chicago, and California. I now live in Kentucky where I raised my two children.

My father was Lebanese, and this background influenced the character of Sadie, who is a refugee from Lebanon and works in her Aunt Florence’s restaurant in Pittman.

I spend my time writing, running a Writers’ Workshop, keeping tabs on my five grandchildren, playing bridge, and participating in many clubs in our area.

Where did you get the idea for the title for Don’t Mess with Me in the Berkshire Mystery Series?

The title for Don’t Mess with Me was based on the character of Sadie who is feisty and stands for all women who are not meek and mild. The title for Peril in Pittman was dictated by the action of the ISIS character who was tracking down former members of the Resistance movement in Lebanon who had settled in this small Berkshire Mountain town.

I picked this cozy mystery genre because I was going crazy during the isolation of covid. I walked, wrote poetry and sent out a poem a day to my friends. I read cozy mysteries because they made me feel good and watched Hallmark mysteries because of the happy endings. I finally decided to try my own hand at the cozy mystery genre.

The most difficult thing about writing a book is finding the time to write for long periods of time. I was used to writing in short periods of time.

Do you have another occupation, other than writer? If so, what is it and do you like it?

I have taught all grades from kindergarten to college. I thoroughly enjoyed discovering the uniqueness of the students at each grade level. Just to keep my skills sharp, I will occasionally assess students who though I don’t have much time for that.are struggling to learn and sometimes tutor,

What do you love that most people don’t like and wouldn’t understand why you do?

Now that I’m retired, people don’t understand why I keep so busy. My calendar is fuller than ever, and I love every minute of it, except for doctor appointments.

Do you collect anything?

Just rejections for my writings over the years

What’s the main thing that you could get rid of in your life that would give you more writing time?

Interruptions. I’ve always said I need to go to a quiet secluded cabin in the woods for a month each year.

What’s your favorite book of all time and why? What’s your favorite childhood book?

Charlotte’s Web is my favorite book of all time. Any book by Dr. Seuss is a favorite childhood book. The fact that Dr. Seuss had 37 rejections for And to Think that I Saw It on Mulberry Street gives me hope to keep on writing.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read Don’t Mess with Me and Peril in Pittman?

I want my readers to have a sense of accomplishment that they have unraveled a complicated plot with characters who have come to life and grown before their eyes. I want readers to feel that they have been an active part of the Super Sleuths and enjoyed themselves along the way by learning all about the Berkshire Mountains’ many festivals and entertainment and even enjoyed the characters’ hints of romance.

 Have you written any other books that are not published?

I have written many children’s books, including a collection of modern fables but haven’t had any luck with publishing them. I also wrote a book teaching people of all ages how to write poetry called So You Want to Write Poetry.

How did you come up with the title? 

I came up with the title for Don’t Mess with Me because of the main character of Sadie, who is a feisty and accomplished young woman. I came up with the title for book 2 Peril in Pittman because an assassin is stalking people who were in the Resistance in Lebanon and have come to live in the small town of Pittman in the Berkshire Mountains.

Was there anything unusual, any anecdote about this book, the characters, title, process, etc. you’d like to share?

I have always believed that my characters dictate the story. Unfortunately, they tend to wait until I am asleep to wake me and make themselves known. When I was writing Don’t Mess with me, my muse woke me, so I got out my notebook in the dark so as to not wake my husband. When I woke the next day and went to transfer the story to the computer, I found that I had written on top of another writing and couldn’t decipher the night’s inspiration.

When I was writing Peril in Pittman, I was awakened by my character telling me in no uncertain words that I couldn’t make him my assassin because he was too nice. It seemed so real that I went back the next morning, reread that chapter, and realized he was right. I had to find another assassin because the first one was too likeable.

What is the most difficult thing about writing a book? What was the most difficult thing about this one in particular?

When I wrote the first book, I made a timeline and followed it diligently. When I wrote the second, I cut corners by deciding I didn’t need the timeline, so when my first editors were reading the first draft, they would say things like, “This hasn’t happened yet. The character hasn’t heard about this, etc.” Needless to say, it took me more time to correct the timeline that it would have to create a timeline before writing.

Book 2 in the Berkshire Mystery Series, Peril in Pittman

Fear has engulfed the tight-knit community of Pittman. Join the Super Sleuths as they unmask a thief and not 1 but 3 hitmen. Meet the members of the Geezer Book Club and discover the future plans of the characters you first met and loved in Don’t Mess with Me, Book 1 in the Berkshire Mystery Series.

Excerpt:

Chapter 11

Another Secret

After the fest planning meeting, Lola left the bookstore and went to the town square. She sat on her thinking bench as the cool breezes invaded her lightweight jacket and leaves blew around like a flock of colorful butterflies. She couldn’t enjoy the scene because her mind was reeling, and she was afraid that someone would discover the one secret that she had never shared with anyone.

After Mr. Brump announced that he was an ex-cop from Chicago, Lola flinched. Mr. Brump was staring at her. Lola had first met him in Grant Park in Chicago. She recognized him when he first came into the Bookworm Shop. She didn’t think he recognized her then. Did Mr. Brump recognize her now?

Lola remembered it well. Mr. Brump was one of the officers present when I went to Grant Park to identify my mom’s body. Now I’m in trouble. Does he have any idea about my secret?

Buy links:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dont-mess-with-me-mary-ann-jacobs/1142600182?ean=2940186700777

Peril in Pittman:

Find Mary Ann Here:

maryannjacobsauthor@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/maryannjacobsauthor

Website: maryannjacobsauthor.wordpress.com

Twitter: maryann41866

Amazon.com/author/maryann_jacobs-1.2 Amazon Author Page URL

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