Author Archives: Alicia Dean

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About Alicia Dean

Author of paranormal and romantic suspense. Follow her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alicia-Dean/131939826889437) or twiiter (https://twitter.com/Alicia_Dean_)
March 19, 2016 · 9:01 am

A Highland Ruby by Brenda B. Taylor

 

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Brenda B. Taylor, with her new release…

 

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Blurb:

She must choose between a life of adventure with the man she loves or a settled, secure life with her betrothed. Flora Vass forced Gavin Munro out of her heart and mind until he returned to Scotland after an adventurous five years in the New World. Gavin leaves no doubt he returned to make the bonnie Flora his own and intends to fight for her. Flora’s betrothed, Iain MacKay, and Gavin’s brother, Chief Andrew Munro, have other plans. Andrew needs her to marry the MacKay and bring peace between the two clans. Iain MacKay desires an heir. War with England looms on the horizon, forcing Flora to make crucial decisions.

A Highland Ruby Excerpt:

He watched her through the grey mist, walking along the shore of Cromarty Firth. The hood of her arisaid covered her bonnie russet locks, but he imagined them bouncing with each step she took. She came every morn, sometimes with the wee curly-headed laddie in tow, but now, she walked alone. His heart beat a fast rhythm like a lad watching his first love. How foolish to be hiding behind a rock when he could speak to her, hold her hand, and look into her dark eyes.

Gavin gathered courage and stood to his full height when Flora walked past the rock where he hid. “Flora,” he said in a quiet voice. She continued to walk, not hearing him above the moaning wind.

Quickly, he took a place beside her, then grabbed her arm. She screamed as she turned to face him. Her eyes widened with fear, she tried to jerk her arm free, then beat his chest with the fist of the other hand, and kicked his shin with the toe of a pointed boot.

Gavin jumped from the boot’s path, but kept her arm secure. “Stop. ‘Tis I, Gavin.” She stopped kicking and the free hand went to her mouth while she studied his face. A small squeak emerged from between full red lips. He watched her lips for a moment, then bent to place a kiss on the inviting mouth. She became rigid with no response.

A Highland Ruby Buy Links:

Historical Heartbeats

Amazon

Apple iTunes

Kobo

Smashwords

 

Author Interview:

Why did you write this book?

Since elementary school I’ve had a desire to write stories, but a family and career took precedence over my ambitions to be a writer. After retirement, I became interested in genealogy and followed my family line to Scotland. Stories about the ancient Scots stirred my interest. A Highland Ruby is a result of research into my Scots heritage and Scotland’s history.

What is your favorite genre to read?

My favorite genres to read are historical romance and historical fiction. History is one of my teaching fields, and I enjoy reading stories set in the past.

Who is your favorite character from fiction (not including your own)?

My favorite character from fiction is Elizabeth Bennet from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice,

What are you working on at the moment, and what will we see from you in coming months?

I am working on a novella prequel to A Highland Pearl, the first book in the Highland Treasures series. The novella tells the story of the love between Andrew’s and Gavin’s parents, Aine and William Munro.

Thank you for joining me today, Brenda. I enjoyed getting to know about you and your book!

About Author Brenda B. Taylor:

The desire to write historical fiction has long been a passion with Brenda B. Taylor. Since elementary school, she has written stories in her spare time. Brenda earned three degrees: a BSE from Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, Arkansas; a MEd from Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas; and an EdD from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; then worked as a teacher and administrator in the Texas Public School system. Only after retirement could she fulfill the dream of publication.

Brenda and her husband make their home in beautiful East Texas where they enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, and working in Bethabara Faith Ministry, Inc. She crafts stories about the extraordinary lives of ordinary people in her favorite place overlooking bird feeders, bird houses, and a variety of blooming trees and flowers. She sincerely thanks all who purchase and read her books. Her desire is that the message in each book will touch the heart of the reader as it did hers in the writing.

Author Contact Information:

Historical Heartbeats

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March 18, 2016 · 1:49 pm

Alicia Dean’s 1920’s Vintage Romance ~ RUINED ~ Free through Monday, March 21st!

This is technically Book 2 in the series, although each are stand-alone. It’s FREE on Amazon for a few more days…

Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon Page…

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ABOUT:

Downton Abbey meets Sex and the City…

She vowed she’d be no man’s doxy, but fate had other plans…

After the Earl of Goodwin attempts to force himself on her, housemaid Eliza Gilbert flees England for New York, hoping to build a better life. But the land of opportunity proves as harsh as the London docks, and she finds herself in a situation more dreadful than the one she escaped.

When Vince Taggart’s childhood friend disappears, he heads to New York in search of her and meets Eliza, a woman with a less than honorable reputation. Inexplicably captivated, Vince can’t force himself to stay away, especially when he learns Eliza may be the key to finding his missing friend.

*** The Martini Club 4 Series came about as a result of four author friends who meet each week at a favorite hangout, The Martini Lounge in Edmond Oklahoma. They decided to write stories centered around a similar establishment, and these four novellas were the result. Their next installment of the series will be set in the 1940s. Follow the authors to keep up with all their releases, including the Martini Club 4 series.

Excerpt:

He studied her with intense blue eyes. The dimple on the right side of that firm mouth creased with a smile. For the first time, she noticed a scar on his slightly crooked nose. The man was a ruffian, so why did he make her pulse race?

She’d resigned herself to giving her body to whatever slobbering pig came along, she would suffer through it, let her mind go somewhere far, far away, and move on.

But this man—how on Earth could she be intimate with him and not feel…something decidedly unprofessional.

“That sounds lovely.” As the words came out, she realized that there was a grain of truth to them. She couldn’t imagine this handsome, charming man’s attentions being as vile as Killman’s were. In fact, having his lips on hers, his touch on her skin…

Eliza lifted her gaze, then looked away when she met his eyes. They were just too…striking, too blue. “I’m afraid you’ll have to speak to Oscar. He handles all my transactions.” She could never have a normal outing with a man. A lump of regret rose in her throat. She turned and started up the stairs.

Vince caught up to her in a few steps and grabbed her arm, taking the bag from her at the same time. “That was a lousy thing to say.”

She opened her mouth to accuse him of going around Oscar so he didn’t have to pay. But that was ridiculous. He hadn’t taken what he’d paid for the first time. She lifted a hand and rubbed her forehead. His attention confused her. What was his angle? He didn’t want sex. Did he think she was hiding something about Cynthia and if he spent time with her he could draw it out? “What do you want from me?”

“A picnic.”

 

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MARTINI CLUB 4 SERIES IN ORDER:

Rebellious (Book 1) by Amanda McCabe – http://amzn.com/B00RKKP9VI

Ruined (Book 2) by Alicia Dean

Reckless (Book 3) by Kathy L Wheeler – http://amzn.com/B00RICW0G0

Runaway (Book 4) by Krysta Scott http://amzn.com/B00RIFHGPC

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March 17, 2016 · 9:48 am

Historical research…how much? How little? by Rachel Brimble – New Release: Her One True Love

Please help me welcome Rachel Brimble, who shares her thoughts on Historical research—something I know nothing about. But, I learned a great deal from her post. And be sure to check out her new release…is that a gorgeous cover or what?

 

I often get asked how much research goes into my Victorian romances and I find this really difficult to answer. As I write romance rather than historical fiction, I focus on the central relationship more than anything––which basically means the emotion. To my mind, the emotions of people during the 1800s would have been more or less the same as today…even if their problems and concerns were entirely different.

My research begins once I have decided on the theme of my book – for Her One True Love, my latest Victorian romance, the central theme is “Journey To Self-Discovery”. So what did this mean as far as research is concerned? Well, first and foremost, I had to decide what it is that will make my hero and heroine discover themselves! For the heroine, I stumbled across an article on England’s Foundling Hospitals and children immediately became her purpose in life.

I was hooked immediately and went on to learn about boarding houses that took in children, either temporarily until their parents could reclaimed them, or until the children were of a working age.

As for the hero, his discovery would come by accompanying the heroine on her journey!

Obviously we are all lucky enough to have access to the World Wide Web nowadays, but I still think it is imperative to read as well as visit places as much as possible. I read plenty of Victorian non-fiction while writing this book as well as visiting No 1 Royal Crescent in Bath (although this is set to the Georgian era, it gave me a nice sense of place), the Bath Fashion Museum and spoke to the Bath Archives Department too. My favorite Victorian research book (and the most helpful!) is The Victorian City by Judith Flanders.

For my next historical book, I am venturing into the Edwardian era for the very first time and I’m having a great time expanding my knowledge! The problem with research is often knowing when to stop. If you enjoy history, the temptation to keep researching rather than getting on with the writing is hard to resist.

Through my reading and visiting, I have become more and more interested in delving backwards as well as forwards. I wouldn’t be surprised if I write a Georgian or even a Tudor series in the future. Watch this space!

Cover

Blurb: 

She Can’t Forget Him… 

Jane Charlotte Danes has loved the squire of her idyllic country town for as long as she can remember. He is good, kind, and alluring beyond words… and he chose to marry another. Tired of dwelling on her futile longings, Jane plans a move to Bath, where she dreams of a new beginning. But the man who has so imprisoned her heart is only a few steps behind…

He Can’t Let Her Go…

Until now, Matthew Cleaves has endeavored to meet the responsibilities of his position with dignity and good spirits—including his dutiful marriage. But when his wife leaves him for another man, Matthew is at last free to pursue his one true love. Only one vital question remains: will the captivating, stubborn, beautiful Jane allow him the challenge, and the pleasure, of winning her back?

Excerpt:

Matthew turned and faced Jane. “When are you leaving for the city?”

She took another step back, her gaze darting over his face. “The day after tomorrow. Why?”

“Because I will escort you. We can travel together in my carriage.”

“No, I do not need your––”

“I will be going anyway. I planned to visit some contacts in the city in the hope of securing guaranteed trade for Biddestone in the coming year. It seems unnecessary for us to make the trip separately when I have a carriage plenty big enough for us both.”

“There is absolutely no need. Jeannie will be coming with me.”

“My offer still stands.”

She glared. “It’s my intention to start on the path of independence, of finding out what the world has to offer me on my own merit. I will hardly be carving out my own path when at the first step from my home, I lean on you.”

“You are being stubborn.”

She pulled back her shoulders. “And you are not?”

The longer he looked at her, the more Matthew saw the quiet beauty he’d desperately tried to ignore. He took a steadying breath. “Please, Jane. Let me escort you to Bath.”

The seconds passed, but Matthew held his tongue. It was imperative she spoke next, that she understood he didn’t mean to bully her but wanted to ensure her safety to a city ravaged by danger, as much as opportunity.

She sighed. “Fine. On one condition.”

He held her gaze. “Which is?”

Her eyes softened, slowly lighting with mischief. “You smile. Now. You smile at me like you did before she left.”

Heat rose to his face. “You want me to smile?”

“Yes. Smile for me, Matthew.”

Empathy and passion swirled in her eyes, but they also bore a deep, painful awareness that scratched hard over his heart. The longer he stared, the more he wanted to make her happy.

He smiled, his gaze on hers…and was surprised to find the trade no effort at all.

Find it here:

Amazon UK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Kobo

 

AUTHOR PIC

Bio:

Rachel lives with her husband and two teenage daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK. After having several novels published by small US presses, she secured agent representation in 2011. Since 2013, she has had five books published by Harlequin Superromance (Templeton Cove Stories) and recently signed a contract for three more. She also has four Victorian romances with eKensington/Lyrical including Her One True Love.

Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America, and was selected to mentor the Superromance finalist of So You Think You Can Write 2014 contest. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Rachel with her head in a book or walking the beautiful English countryside with her family. Her dream place to live is Bourton-on-the-Water in South West England.

She likes nothing more than connecting and chatting with her readers and fellow romance writers. Rachel would love to hear from you!

Links:

Website

Blog

Twitter

Facebook

Facebook Street Team – Rachel’s Readers

 

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March 16, 2016 · 9:44 am

Ten Moments That Changed My Life by Marlow Kelly + New Release: A Woman of Courage **GIVEAWAY

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  1. When I was four years old I woke up in hospital, scared and alone. It was the start of six years of childhood illness where I was in and out of hospital and spent most of my time at home, away from other children. I recovered by age ten and have led a normal healthy life since. And although it may seem sad, this was when my imagination bloomed and I began making up stories to entertain myself.
  1. As a teenager I spent summers with my cousins in Ireland. Being away from my parents and sisters in a different culture (Yes the Irish culture is different from the English culture) gave me a new perspective on the world and my ability to be independent in it.
  1. Got a job at British Airways. This was a turning point for me. The selection process was long, difficult, and included; three interviews, a two and a half hour intelligence test, and a role-play scenario. Being selected was a huge ego boost. Getting that job changed me from a small, mousy, timid person into a strong, confident woman.
  1. Travelled the world. That sounds more impressive than it actually is. I have travelled – probably more than most, but less than many. For a young person travelling can be a true eye-opener. I came to realize that the social expectations that ruled my life in England didn’t apply to the rest of the world.
  1. Moved to Canada. When I was twenty-six I moved to Canada. It may surprise you to know that the Canadians didn’t want me; mainly because my work as a check-in agent at British Airways was not a skill they needed, so I became a nanny. Apparently they always need nannies. After two years working as a domestic servant I was allowed to stay in Canada and am now a Canadian citizen.
  1. When I was twenty-eight I was involved in a car accident. The other car ran a stop sign. I broke bones in my pelvis, shoulder and jaw. It was a painful experience that made me aware of how our minds and bodies work in unison. It also had an effect on my story telling. By the end of the book I normally injure at least one of my main characters. No one escapes my stories unscathed.
  1. Met my husband. After years of working indoors, as a nanny, I decided I needed to be outside for a while so I took a job as a courier driver in Vancouver. I was twenty-nine and had decided that marriage and children weren’t for me. Then low and behold I met my husband. He was one of the other drivers and six years younger than me – a mere twenty-three – and I remember being grateful that I could legally go out with him 🙂
  1. Had children. I wrote this list in chronological order, but if I’d written it in order of most important then having children would have been number one on my list. It is by far the best, most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. My family brings me joy every day and makes me realize how truly blessed I am.
  1. Decided to write a book. Unlike most people who write, I didn’t start writing until I was in my forties, although I always had characters dancing around in my head. I guess you could say that writing is part of my mid-life crisis. I woke up one day and realized that if I wanted to put my stories down on paper I had to do it soon. Then, of course, I had to learn how to write, but that’s a whole other blog post.
  1. Contracted by TWRP. After many false starts, half written manuscripts, and six years of struggling to learn the craft of writing – a profession that is profoundly humbling and rewarding at the same time – My novella A Woman of Honour was contracted by The Wild Rose Press. TWRP then contracted the complete series, A Woman of Love and A Woman of Courage. I’m hoping to publish a collection of short stories entitled Murder by Bear and Other Short Stories, in April or May. I’m also working on a full–length contemporary suspense entitled Sun Seeker.

***On Sale for $0.99***

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Blurb:

When an injured Fianna Byrne turns up at Connell O’Neill’s gate twelve years after their separation he knows this could be his last chance to find happiness with the woman he loves.

False accusations against Fianna had strained relations between their clans and forced Connell, under Irish law, to divorce her. Their disastrous three-month relationship left Fianna pregnant and heartbroken. She has avoided Duncarraig and her ex-husband ever since.

But with her home obliterated by the Vikings, Fianna must face her past in order to save her son, and prove once and for all she is a woman of courage.

Excerpt:

Twelve years ago she’d been Connell’s wife. His devastating rejection of her, after only three months of marriage, and their subsequent divorce caused a pain so real it twisted her insides. The hostilities that ensued after their separation, followed by an uneasy truce when she found she was pregnant with their son, Lorcan, made it prudent to restrict her contact.

During their short marriage he had weakened her in a way no other man could. She’d transformed into a woman so overtaken with lust she’d been blind to everything, including his true feelings. With Connell all her instincts, control, and intellect became like overcooked oats, a sludge that thought of nothing except him.

Her breath caught when her former husband strode out of the large central house, marching toward her. His long limbs and easy stride accentuated the rippling muscles of his legs. Every movement emphasized his grace and strength. He was still tall and broad, with long, smooth, black hair and a black beard to match. He would have been too handsome, too pretty, if it hadn’t been for his large crooked nose. That imperfection added to his allure, making him more appealing. Her pulse quickened, and her body warmed with need. She forgot her reason for being here, forgot everything except him. Damn it. Even in her injured state, with everything she had endured, he still had the ability to turn her mind to mud.

Buy links:

TWRP:

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=195&products_id=6490

Nook:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-woman-of-courage-marlow-kelly/1122768047?ean=2940150869141

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Woman-Courage-Honour-Love-ebook/dp/B0166THBB4/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

ARe

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-awomanofcourage-1904514-365.html

Giveaway:

Marlow will award a $20 Amazon gift card to one lucky winner at the end of the tour. (Click on Rafflecopter link below) Follow the tour and comment the more you comment the more chances you have to win. Tour stops can be found at: http://www.marlowkelly.com/appearances-giveaways-and-news.html

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Rafflecopter link:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author

Author Bio

After being thrown out of England for refusing to drink tea, Marlow Kelly made her way to Canada where she found love, a home and a pug named Max. She also discovered her love of storytelling. Encouraged by her husband, children and let’s not forget Max, she started putting her ideas to paper. Her need to write about strong women in crisis drives her stories. You can visit Marlow at www.marlowkelly.com

Social Media Links

Website: http://www.marlowkelly.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/want2write

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/Marlowkelly14/

 

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March 15, 2016 · 10:38 am

Tuesday Two-Minute Writing Tip – How to Punctuate Dialogue

Got two minutes? Then check out this week’s quick tip ~ 

Hello and welcome…I am a freelance editor and an editor for The Wild Rose Press, as well as an author. I often struggle with my own writing, and I have found that sometimes, a little reminder of ways to improve the process can be helpful, so, I like to share these moments of brilliance with others :). But, in this busy world of ours, who has time for pages and pages of writing tips? That’s why I’ve condensed mine down to quick flashes you can read in (approximately) two minutes. Enjoy…

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Disclaimer: All of my tips are suggestions, and are only my opinion. And, for the most part, there are exceptions when going against my advice will make your story read better. Take what works, leave the rest.

A quick lesson on punctuating dialogue…

Punctuation belongs inside quotation marks

When an attribution is used, such as ‘said’ ‘asked’ ‘exclaimed’ etc, use a comma and lower case following the quotation mark:

“You are driving me crazy,” she said.

If an action follows the dialogue, use a period and capitalize the first word:

“You are driving me crazy.” She clenched her fists.

An em-dash is for interruptions or abruptly cut off dialogue:

“You are driving me—“

“Don’t!” He held up a hand. “Don’t say another word.”

An ellipses is used when trailing off:

“You are driving me…” She let her words fade. What was the use? He never listened anyway.

If you have dialogue interrupted by a thought, or an aside, use em-dashes outside the quotation marks.

“You are driving me crazy”—she wished she had a nickel for every time they’d had this argument—“and I don’t know how much more I can take.”

Please, please, please, always keep a speaker’s dialogue within the same paragraph, but start a new paragraph for a different speaker.

Wrong:

“You are driving me crazy.” Martha shook her head.

“I don’t know how much more I can take.” She dropped heavily into the chair.

“Martha, please, I’m sorry,” Drake said.

Correct:

“You are driving me crazy.” Martha shook her head. “I don’t know how much more I can take.” She dropped heavily into the chair.

“Martha, please, I’m sorry,” Drake said.

Incorrect:

“You are driving me crazy.” Martha shook her head. “Martha, please, I’m sorry,” Drake said.

Correct:

“You are driving me crazy.” Martha shook her head.

“Martha, please, I’m sorry,” Drake said.

It is acceptable to have dialogue by the same speaker before you have it by another speaker, as long as it is broken up by some kind of action and you make it clear the same person is speaking again. For example:

“You are driving me crazy.” Martha shook her head.

Drake filled his glass with scotch, keeping his back to her.

“I don’t know how much more I can take.” She dropped heavily into the chair.

Multiple paragraphs of dialogue by the same speaker: Do not use a close quote at the end of the first paragraph, or the following paragraphs, until you get to the last one, then you will use a close quote: (This is from my short story, “Caster’s Unfriendly Ghost” – the other examples are not from a story :))

“Let me save us some time. I died in a plane crash a year ago, you came to my funeral. You haven’t seen or spoken to my wife since. I, however, have been keeping an eye on her. She’s about to make a huge mistake, and I need your help to keep that from happening.

“I’m sure you’ll help me because, in spite of the fact that you pushed the two of us together, you care about Emily, and you don’t want to see her hurt.” Joey moved toward him, and Caster stepped back. “Before we proceed, though, I apparently have to make you see that this is real, that I’m here. Pinch yourself.”

 If this had gone on for more than two paragraphs, you would use an open quote at the beginning of each paragraph, but only a closing quote at the end of the last.

Using character names in dialogue (and, please, do so sparingly), always use a comma before and/or after the name:

“You are driving me crazy, Drake.” Martha shook her head.

“Martha, please, I’m sorry,” Drake said.

Please, be kind to your editors, save them time and spare them headaches by learning to use punctuation correctly.

Until next time…happy writing!

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NEW RELEASE – Available April 15, 2016 – Pre-Order for only 99¢!

(Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon Buy Page)

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I am releasing an e-book with a collection of Two-Minute Tips I have shared on my blog. Now, you can have them in one convenient place for easy reference. Pre-Order price is 99¢ – Regular price will be $2.99.

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*** If you would like to send me a few sample pages (around 7500 words or so, even though I will not edit that many on the blog. It just gives me more to choose from) for me to edit and share on an upcoming blog post, please do so in the body of an email to AliciaMDean@aol.com. Please use the subject line: “Blog Submission” This is for published or unpublished authors. In the email, please include whether you would like me to use your name or keep it anonymous, and whether or not you would like me to include any contact info or buy info for your books. Also, you can let me know if you would like for me to run my edits by you before posting on the blog. Please keep in mind, this is for samples to use for blog posts. I will not edit or use samples from all the submissions I receive, but I will use as many as possible. 

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*** Find the Magic and the book I use for examples in FTM, Without Mercy, are both on sale for 1.50 each. Click HERE for Find the Magic and HERE for Without Mercy ***

16

How to write a novel? That is the question. There are probably as many answers to that question as there are people who ask it.

Wanting to write and actually doing it are two very different things. I am well acquainted with the sometimes grueling process of churning out a story. Over the years, I have tried many methods for creating and completing manuscripts, and have tweaked and honed it down to a workable (for me) process.

Using specific examples from one of my own novels, Without Mercy, I share my method in this mini how to book. The first eight steps actually deal with plotting while the last two are designed to help expand your outline into a well-developed draft. There is no one, perfect way to create a story, but there will be a method, or methods that work for you. I’m not sure if this is the one, but it works for me. Only you can decide if it also works for you. Fingers crossed that it does!

*** Warning – Please do not purchase without reading a sample. (This is solid advice for any book, fiction or non. If you are not intrigued in the sample, you will likely not enjoy the book)

Amazon: Click Here

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March 14, 2016 · 2:05 pm

ANGELINE – Bride Brigade Two by Caroline Clemmons

I’m happy to welcome Caroline Clemmons with her latest release…

 

Beautiful woman wearing red dress over a train

 

Please help me celebrate the release this month of ANGELINE, Bride Brigade book two, on Amazon and in Kindle Unlimited at http://amzn.com/B01CEK3W0S.

Creating this town in which all the women are elderly widows or part of older couples—except for the wealthy young widow, Lydia Jane Harrison—was fun. Many bachelors are threatening to move to Fort Worth or another city so they can meet a wife and start a family. Who can blame them?

Lydia loathes the fact there are no women her age and no children in town. Her friend Sophia Gaston challenges Lydia to do something about the problem because Sophia’s son is threatening to leave. Lydia travels back to Richmond, Virginia to recruit young women of high caliber with a view to marriage. She chooses four but by the time she reaches Tarnation, she has seven young women with her. I love the name of the town, Tarnation, don’t you?

The site of this fictional town near the base of the Palo Pinto Mountains in North Central Texas is an area I love. To people from other locales, these may look like hills. By geological standards, they are mountains. There is something about that area that calls to me. I never tire of driving through the mountains and picturesque small towns like Palo Pinto, Strawn, and Santo. 

This was one of the hardest books I’ve written. I’ve said that before, but this really was the most difficult. Not because of research, but because the hero is the minister of Tarnation. Writing a minister hero without being too “churchy” was a challenge. Not that I have anything against inspirational romances—I read them, but they’re not what I write. My goal is to have the same tone for each of the Bride Brigade books. I’m sure my family is happy I’ve completed and published ANGELINE so I’d quit fretting about it (yes, that’s a nice way of saying complaining).

I have to admit I love the heroine, Angeline Chandler, and the hero, Grady McIntyre. In my opinion, they make the perfect couple. Lydia Harrison gave Angeline a second chance and secretly knew she was right for Grady. This makes a marriage for two of the seven women Lydia brought to Tarnation. 

Here’s the blurb for ANGELINE:

A desperate young woman

A second chance

A life-changing decision.

Angeline Chandler didn’t invite the attack that created her condition but she’s suffering the result. Disowned by her family and left alone and destitute, she gets a second chance when a kind woman rescues her and invites her to travel to Tarnation, Texas with six other young women for the purpose of marriage with a local bachelor. The prospect of marrying one man while carrying another’s child worries Angeline. Who would want her with another man’s baby?

Grady McIntyre is a minister whose wife died soon after their son was born. The woman who has been helping with his toddler has told him she’s too old to continue. When Angeline’s name is suggested as a part-time nanny, he seizes the chance to hire her. Their attraction is instantaneous but Angeline resists. A minister needs a virtuous woman, not a fallen one. Soon they marry and both are happy.

Trouble rears its ugly head until matters come to a crisis. Angeline and Grady must be strong to protect their love and preserve Grady’s ministry.

Here’s an excerpt from ANGELINE:    

The vigor which had been with her on her walk had completely disappeared. In its place a clammy, smothering sensation overwhelmed her. If only she could reach Lydia’s she’d be safe. She hardly remembered taking her fabric and going out the door.

The world spun and she reached out her hand to steady herself but found only air. She gasped for breath, unable to breathe. Her knees turned to rubber and she felt herself sinking.

Firm hands clasped her upper arms. “Miss, may I help you?”

She looked into the kindest hazel eyes she’d ever seen. His blond hair barely showed under his hat. “I don’t know what came over me. I suppose I’m still tired from my journey.”

He looped her arm onto his. “I’m the local pastor, Grady McIntyre. Please allow me to escort you to the Harrison home.”

“Thank you, I’m Angeline Chandler. Frankly, I can use a solid arm to lean on for the walk.” She clasped his forearm as she would a stair banister. For a minister, he was muscular and appeared strong.

“You must be one of the young women who came with Lydia. I couldn’t get away to greet your arrival but I understand there was quite a reception committee.”

She forced a smile. After all, he was gallant enough to help her and deserved a friendly response. “I was awfully tired. I hardly remember anyone except the mercantile owner and the sheriff. Lydia made a point of greeting them.”

“I remember that trip and imagine by then you only wanted a bath and a bed. That’s a tiring ride.”

“Deadly. I’m surprised my teeth didn’t fall out with all the bumps and rattles.”

“Don’t understand how anyone’s brave enough to leave town. Once I arrived, I vowed never to leave.”

She grinned at his attempt to cheer her. “Me, too…

~~~~~~~~~~

I hope you’ll read ANGELINE. If you haven’t read the first Bride Brigade book, JOSEPHINE, won’t you try it, too? There are five more of the Bride Brigade series to come. So far, reviews have been good for both books. I hope you agree. If you do, please post a review.

~~~~~~~~~

Caroline Clemmons is an Amazon bestselling and award winning author of historical and contemporary western romances. A frequent speaker at conferences and seminars, she has taught workshops on characterization, point of view, and layering a novel.

Caroline and her husband live in the heart of Texas cowboy country with their menagerie of rescued pets. When she’s not indulging her passion for writing, Caroline enjoys family time, reading, travel, browsing antiques, genealogy, and getting together with friends. Find her on her blog, website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Google+, WattPad, Shelfari, and Pinterest. Subscribe to her newsletter here to receive a FREE novella of Happy Is The Bride. She loves to hear from readers at caroline @ carolineclemmons.com

 

 

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March 11, 2016 · 11:37 am

Ramblings of a Lifelong Elvis Fan – Part 74 – Featuring Elvis in My Books

[INTRO: I am a die hard, card carrying Elvis fan and have been for as long as I can remember. There is so much about Elvis to love; his incredible singing voice, his generous spirit, his looks (the most gorgeous man ever), his movies (yes, his movies. They make me happy, so critics can just shush), his service in the army, his magical presence on stage, his transcendent charisma, and…I could go on and on. As a matter of fact, on my 50th post, I believe it was, I DID go on and on. I listed 50 things I love about Elvis. It wasn’t difficult. I am an author and I mention Elvis in almost every story I write. I named my son Presley. I was fortunate to see Elvis in concert three times. I have been to Graceland five times… See? I love Elvis. I have been blogging weekly for more than a year, but going forward, I will blog every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. My life is insanely busy and I found myself missing weeks from time to time. This way, I’m more likely to be consistent. Hopefully, even if you are not an Elvis fan, you appreciate something about him and will find my posts interesting. Feel free to comment. Thank you so much for stopping by!]

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Elvis was an avid reader, another reason to admire and respect him.  I love that he and I have that in common. 🙂

As an author, I am honored that I can combine my love for Elvis, my love of reading, and my love of writing by mentioning Elvis in my books. For today’s post, I am sharing just a few samples of excerpts where I’ve done so…

 

Death Notice Cover

It’s a bit challenging to work in mentions of Elvis, since my characters are young and most were not born when he passed away. While I am well aware that all generations, even the one being born now, will produce many Elvis fans, I thought I should sometimes give reasons for my youthful characters being fans.

Here is how I did it in Death Notice:

Excerpt:

“Suspicious Minds” by Elvis came on the radio and I turned it up, feeling my spirits lift. I had inadvertently become an Elvis fan in college while doing a paper on the impact of celebrities on society. Whether or not one appreciated Elvis’ talent, there was no denying he was a phenomenon, the likes of which had never been seen before and would probably never be seen again. Not only did I find I loved his music, I’d discovered why he had the impact he had. He had this boyish, southern charm, but at the same time, a deeply embedded raw sexuality that was powerful and intoxicating. It was fortunate that he only used that power for entertainment. If he’d been a terrorist or a cult leader, he could have easily taken over the world. I was only six when he died, a few years younger than his daughter. Had I been ten years older, I was certain I’d have been a part of the frenzied, screaming masses, fainting and tossing my panties up on stage.

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LibertyAwakened

This was fun, since Eli is a vampire, but Liberty doesn’t yet know it. So, his response is a bit ‘tongue in cheek’.

Excerpt:

Though the music coming from the party was muted, Liberty recognized an Elvis Presley song, “One Night.” She grinned at Eli. “You like Elvis Presley? Isn’t he a little before your time?”

His lips twitched with amusement and he shrugged. “You might say I’m an old soul.”

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11. THICKER THAN WATER 8.12

(Can you tell I really love ‘Suspicious Minds’? :))

Excerpt:

Jake fell silent and flipped on the radio. “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis was playing. She glanced at him from the corner of her eye. Did he remember how much she liked Elvis? How he’d teased her unmercifully about it? Nothing showed on his face, but he must remember. Had he shoved every memory of their time together out of his mind?

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And this story holds a very special place in my heart. I was able to really let loose with the Elvis thing, since the story is set in 1957. It was released on Elvis’ 80th birthday…

Chapter One

Mapleton, Tennessee, November, 1957

Toby Lawson closed her eyes and shut out all sounds of the diner, except for Elvis Presley’s voice. He was crooning about how she was the only one for him…no matter where he went or what he did… he’d spend his whole life loving her…

Rough hands landed on her waist and shattered the fantasy. She caught a whiff of hair tonic and too much cologne and snapped her eyes open. Wes Markham’s hateful face replaced the image of Elvis’ beautiful, crooked smile and smoldering blue eyes.

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There are many more, but I won’t bore you with all of them. I just thought it would be fun to share a few. Hope you enjoyed.

Thank you for stopping by…Happy Friday! 

**** I just saw that my publisher put the ebook version of Death Notice on sale for 99 cents. Thicker than Water and End of Lonely Street are also 99 cents, and Liberty Awakened is $2.99. I’m sharing the Amazon links below, just in case anyone is interested:

DEATH NOTICE ON AMAZON – 99¢

LIBERTY AWAKENED ON AMAZON – $2.99

THICKER THAN WATER ON AMAZON – 99¢

END OF LONELY STREET ON AMAZON – 99¢

 

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EOLS Charity

Elvis was known for his giving heart and charitable work during his lifetime. Lisa Marie and Elvis Presley Enterprises have continued that tradition with their involvement in various charities. In 1984, The Elvis Charitable Foundation was formed. The EPCF created a scholarship fund for students majoring in the arts. The charity also contributes to one of Elvis’ favorite charities, Goodwill Homes, a Memphis facility that provides counseling and services for abused children and their families. The EPCF also assists numerous other charities, especially focusing on arts, education and children’s programs.

Learn more here, including how to donate:

http://www.graceland.com/epcf/

END OF LONELY STREET – Now Only 99 Cents!

On Elvis’ 80th birthday, I released a Vintage Romance short story set in 1957, and of course, my heroine is an Elvis fan. 🙂 As a tribute to Elvis’ generosity, and in order to assist with this worthy cause, 10% of my proceeds for End of Lonely Street will go to the EPCF.

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All Toby Lawson wants is to go to college to become a teacher and to be free of her alcoholic mother and some painful memories. But when her mother nearly burns the house down, Toby must put her dreams on hold and return home to care for her. The only time she isn’t lonely and miserable is when she’s listening to her heartthrob, Elvis Presley. His music takes her away and helps her escape from everything wrong in her life.

Noah Rivers has always loved Toby, but no matter what he says, she can‘t get past the fact that her drunken mother once kissed him. He soon realizes the true problem lies in Toby’s belief she’s not good enough for him and in her fear she will be just like her mother.

What will it take to prove to her that she deserves to be happy, and that he would give anything to be the man to make her dreams come true?

Click Here for Kindle

Click Here for Nook

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March 10, 2016 · 9:26 am

We Have Double Trouble on the Blog Today – Darcy Flynn’s Latest Release…

My friend, Darcy Flynn, has an upcoming release that is available for pre-order through Amazon. I had the privilege of reading the book BP (Before Publication), and it’s highly entertaining. Check it out:

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Blurb:

From the first moment coffee mogul, Will Carrington, gazes into the fiery, green eyes of Clare Sullivan, he’s hit with the feeling she does not like him. Not. One. Little. Bit. Used to being the proverbial prize by some gorgeous gold-digging fortune hunter, he’s learned to be careful. But with his hunter instincts now on high alert, he’s determined to find out the why behind her stormy-eyed glances.

Top home designer, Clare Sullivan, wants absolutely nothing to do with arrogant, self-assured Will Carrington, especially after he called her half-sister a gold digger. When she gets the opportunity to design his multi-million dollar Miami penthouse, she arrives at his office ready to decline his offer, and to tell him exactly what she thinks of his cruel and un-warranted comments. 

While there, she overhears his one-sided phone conversation, which seems to further insult her sister. Assuming the worst, Clare makes the rash decision to accept the job and charge him a fortune in the process. Someone needs to teach him a lesson and what better way than with a swift kick in his wallet.

Since she and her sister have different surnames, Clare conveniently hides the connection to her sister. But while she works with Will, she discovers another side to this self-assured woman-hater. A Jekyll to his Hyde. Charming and professional, he’s nothing like the man she’s heard about. What she doesn’t know is Will Carrington has a few secrets of his own.

Excerpt:

Clare leaned against the white painted railing and soaked up the view. The Gulf waters spanned in front of them for miles, its waves beckoned as it broke against the shoreline. “Why would you ever want to leave this for the penthouse? You’ve got the sand at your feet and the ocean just yards away.”

“Who says I’m giving it up?”

“I just assumed…”

“That, Miss Sullivan, is your trouble.”

“Excuse me?”

He took her hand and led her to the end of the porch, then faced her. “You assume way too much.” He gently pulled her into his arms. “About me, anyway.”

Heart thudding, she gazed up at him. “What are you doing?”

“What do you think?”

In business, Clare had one hard and fast rule—never get involved with a client. As tempting as he was, she made a half-hearted attempt to pull away.

“No. Wait. Don’t think.” He gently tapped her chin. Her eyes locked with his mesmerizing ones. Blue, like the ocean. Dancing with the light of the late afternoon sun. For a brief moment they roamed over her face, hungry, desiring, then he lowered his head.

Pre-Order HERE

 

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About Darcy:

Darcy Flynn is known for her heartwarming, sweet contemporary romances. Her refreshing storylines, irritatingly handsome heroes and feisty heroines will delight and entertain you from the first page to the last. Miss Flynn’s heroes and heroines have a tangible chemistry that is entertaining, humorous and competitive.

Darcy lives with her husband, son, two English Setters and a menagerie of other living creatures on her horse farm in Franklin, Tennessee. She raises rare breed chickens, stargazes on warm summer nights and indulges daily in afternoon tea.

Contact Links:

Website/Blog: http://www.darcyflynnromances.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/darcyflynn

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DarcyFlynnAuthor

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0077AG3ZM

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2975929.Darcy_Flynn

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/dflynnauthor/boards/

Google+: https://plus.google.com/116563609469381811624/posts?tab=XX

 

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March 6, 2016 · 11:39 am

FREE Ebooks Galore!!!

 

Free book blog

Check out our monthly list of FREE reads. All different genres, all free! Just click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon purchase/download page.

PLEASE CONFIRM BEFORE ORDERING!!! – We are not responsible if books are no longer free

 

 

1

A cursed doll? A broken nose? True Love?

Ludicrous . . .or is it?

Find Kathy L Wheeler here: http://kathylwheeler.com/

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2

A soldier trapped behind enemy lines.  A nurse risks everything to save him. As the Kaiser’s Army steamrolls across their country, they’ll make a desperate bid for freedom.

Find Linda Andrews here: http://www.authorlindaandrews.com

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3

The Druid Knight Tales ~ She would give her last breath for him. He would give up everything to guard her well and love her more.

Find Ruth A. Casie here: http://www.ruthacasie.com/books.html

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4

A future king claiming the woman he loves. A commoner falling in love with a prince. An unexpected threat that could destroy them both.

Find Marianne Knightly here.

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5

For Tatiana Ashurst, there’s no escaping destiny. Kit Vallentyn would rather devote himself to anything but finding a wife. The only way to survive the storm looming on the horizon will be to have the courage to shed their secrets and discover their true destinies together.

Find out more at Meredith Bond at meredithbond.com.

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6

Saving home, family, and protecting tigers can’t be mutually exclusive, can it?

Find Lynn Cahoon here –www.lynncahoon.com

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7

Struggling to survive on the streets of Paris, Genny agrees to be shipped to the colonies—and marry a dangerous stranger.

Find Lisa Ann Verge here:  www.lisavergehiggins.com

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8

When her friend is assaulted, sixteen year-old Corinne couldn’t help reacting. Now her hands are burnt, Gran is coming to look after her and, worst of all, strange men are watching her house. Could they be terrorists? Secret agents? Suitable 16years + (Contains coarse language and sexual references)

Find Rachel Stedman here: http://rlstedman.com

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9

When Viscount Sheffield’s ballroom burns down, whirlwind Amelia Pembroke rushes in to rescue the party–and steal his heart!

Find Erica Ridley here: http://EricaRidley.com

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10

Headed home, Ben Morgan runs into Maggie Williams and his ailing heart skips a beat. For years, Maggie has struggled to forget him, raising their daughter, Emma, Ben ignorant of his child’s existence. Now, here he is, gorgeous as ever! Maggie swears Ben Morgan will not break her heart again.

Find M. Lee Prescott here: http://www.mleeprescott.com

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11

What secrets lie beneath a Quaker school’s serene and quiet beauty?  The murder of lascivious, comptroller, Milt Wickie shatters the silence, a scrimshaw knife protruding from his chest, a knife belonging to grieving widow, Bess Dore. Bess’ old flame, police detective, Roger Demarks, and Harry Winthrop, an amateur sleuth are on the case and romance is in the air!

Find M. Lee Prescott at: http://www.mleeprescott.com

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12

Hip young up-and-coming executive Mariah Olsen has mastered separating work ambitions from personal desires in her climb up the cut-throat corporate ladder. Caught mixing the two when daydreaming in a board meeting, she faces unexpected consequences delivered by self-made billionaire Clark Mannings.

Find JACINTHA TOPAZ here: http://eepurl.com/R9OfH 

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13

Strong minds, strong passions, and strong urges. THE INTROS brings six couples together for exclusive FAQs, a couple of never-before-published vignettes, and first chapters about women-loving women. Taste, if you dare.

Find JACINTHA TOPAZ here: http://eepurl.com/R9OfH 

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14

From the Alpha Fever Boxed Set of USA Today, Amazon, International, and Award Winning Bestselling Authors, we bring you Alpha Heat: 21 steamy short stories to get your temperature rising as we introduce some of our characters. Don’t miss out on our boxed set of 22 full-length novellas coming to you on March 19th!

Find ALPHA FEVER fan page here: https://www.facebook.com/Alpha-Fever-Contemporary-and-Paranormal-Romance-Boxed-Set-1101198736609829/

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15

No identity, no home, no idea who’s chasing her…

Find Chris Marie Green here: www.chrismariegreen.com

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16

Is a new man enough to make baker Tora stay in her Texas hometown?

Find Linda Carroll-Bradd here: www.lindacarroll-bradd.com

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17

One man is determined to take her life, the other wants to save it.  With over 1800 five-star reviews, don’t miss this romantic thriller!

Find Alexa Grace here: www.AuthorAlexaGrace.com

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18

He is intent on rescue. She won’t be rescued. A rebellious heroine runs headlong into adventure in this madcap romp.

Find Elizabeth Bailey here: www.elizabethbailey.co.uk

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Book 1 of the best selling Stewart Realty Series! Once you go Jack, you NEVER go back!

Find Liz Crowe here: http://www.lizcrowe.com

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21

Back in town on the secluded Stewart Island, police officer Piper Harland is only sticking around long enough to save her brother from a financial meltdown. Can former flame and local bar owner Ryan Westlake convince her to stay?

Find Tracey Alvarez at http://www.traceyalvarez.com

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22

When you’re enemies, does love have a fighting chance? Amiria of Berwyck vows to protect her people by pledging her oath of fealty to the very enemy who has laid siege to her home. Dristan, the Devil’s Dragon of Blackmore, has a reputation to uphold as champion knight of his king. Lies, treachery, and deceit attempt to tear them apart, but only love will bring them together.

Find Sherry Ewing at http://www.SherryEwing.com

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23

Lies, Secrets, Betrayal…When a woman’s father dies on his way to the cabin he visited every month, she discovers a secret that threatens everything she’s always held to be true. Book 8 in this popular series just released!  Also available in paperback and audio, and is perfect for book club discussions.

Find Mary Campisi at http://www.marycampisi.com

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24

As a murderer stalks the streets of London’s East End, Darcie Finch accepts a position that no one else dares as assistant to Dr. Damien Cole, a dangerously attractive man with dark secrets, a man who may well be a remorseless killer.

Find Eve Silver at http://www.evesilver.net

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25

As they make their way across the untamed Louisiana wilderness, hoping to reunite the Gallant family, Emilie learns that love has a way of healing all wounds — even in the most unusual places.

Find Cherie Claire at https://www.facebook.com/authorcherieclaire/

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26

Finding love is hard, even when you aren’t a mutant.

Find Sandra Cox @ https://www.facebook.com/SandraCox.Author/

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27

The middle of nowhere gets a lot more interesting for an orphaned astronomy nerd when the hot new quarterback inexplicably befriends her and strange things start to happen: her acne clears up, her eyesight improves, and when they touch, sparks fly—literally!

Find Brenda Hiatt at http://www.facebook.com/BrendaHiatt

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28

TV reporter Elizabeth Danniher’s address has changed from New York City to rustic Sherman, Wyoming, and her life has changed even more. She’s drawn into investigating the disappearance of a sheriff’s deputy at the insistence of a little girl and with the prodding of a new TV station colleague.

Find Patricia McLinn at http://www.facebook.com/PatriciaMcLinn

 

Enjoy…Happy Reading!!!

 

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March 5, 2016 · 8:27 am

Every Vow She Breaks ~ Getting the Most from your Setting by Jannine Gallant

I am thrilled to host my friend, and a fabulous author, Jannine Gallant, who writes tense, compelling, passionate Romantic Suspense.  

 

Thanks for having me on you blog, Alicia! Today, I’d like to explore what a well-drawn setting brings to a book. For me, it establishes the tone of the story. City vs country. Hot weather vs cold. A tropical beach. Snow-capped mountains. A steamy bayou. All add a different dimension to a book, and with it, certain expectations from the reader. In my new release, Every Vow She Breaks, the story is set on the Northern California coast in the fall. Fog shrouded redwoods and long stretches of deserted beach with a cool wind blowing are the backdrop for romance and mystery. The eerie surroundings add to the suspenseful atmosphere. The feeling you get when you’re walking alone in the woods as the sun sets and dark shadows fall across the trail… A stick snaps. Your heartrate speeds up, and you glance over your shoulder, even though you know no one is there… That’s the feeling I want to convey to readers with my setting. If I’ve done my job right, immersing them in the mystery will be a piece of cake!

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As a reader, what are some of your favorite settings? If you’re an author, do you have certain settings you use again and again?

 

EveryVowSheBreaks

Blurb:

A Promise Can Follow You To the Grave…

Claire Templeton is drawn to the majestic beauty of the California Redwoods in the hopes of capturing an unexplained phenomenon on camera. What she doesn’t expect is to run into her first love, Jed Lafferty, the boy she worshipped as a child, the man she’s never been able to forget.

Carefree, fun-loving Jed doesn’t believe in fate, preferring to make his own luck. But when he runs into the little girl who used to follow him like a shadow, now an irresistible woman, he can’t help feeling the odds are turning in his favor. Letting Claire walk out of his life the first time might be his single biggest regret. But when strange gifts and cards left for Claire turn sinister, it’s clear someone else from her past isn’t ready to let go . . .

Jannine#4

About the Author:

Write what you know… I’ve taken this advice to heart, creating characters from small towns and plots that unfold in the great outdoors. I grew up in a tiny Northern California town and currently live in beautiful Lake Tahoe with my husband and two daughters. When I’m not busy writing, I hike or snowshoe in the woods around my home. Whether I’m writing contemporary, historical or romantic suspense, I bring the beauty of nature to my stories.

Links:

Website

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Apple

Kobo

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