Category Archives: 10 Moments that Changed My Life

October 26, 2016 · 8:04 am

“10 Moments That Changed My Life” by Author Nancy Lee Badger & New Release: SMOKE, Clan of Dragons, Book #2 

I am pleased to introduce today’s guest, Nancy Lee Badger, who is sharing the moments that changed her life and her latest release…

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10 Moments That Changed my Life

…and turned me into an author

1) I learned to dance as a child, in hand- sewn costumes, and found I had rhythm and pacing.

2) I roller-skated with my sisters and cousins, then became quite a good figure skater. Balance and control, anybody?

3) I got eyeglasses in 2nd grade, a defining moment, and learned others can be cruel. I try not to be.

4) Bell-bottom jeans and a midriff-baring top caught the eye of a college boy who became my husband, and I learned how to share my future.

5) I earned a B.S. in art education, but a lack of teaching jobs turned me into a hardware store employee, which made us able to afford an old house in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, our first home.

6) Insulating, adding a new roof, chimney, plumbing, and new windows in a c1860 house made me realize I could live anywhere, in anything, and survive.

7) Growing up with sisters, the birth of my first son caught me by surprise. Raising two sons opened me up to cub scouts, camping, and snakes.

8) NH Highland Games, Hospital Auxiliary, EMT, Firefighter…volunteering has helped me be a better person.

9) Selling my first book made me realize I could actually be a published author.

10) Publishing my 17th book, SMOKE, has changed my life!

 

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Book Blurb

Wynn, a green dragon, tumbles off a hill, landing in snow. Sensing someone above his head, he jumps free, and accidentally slams a wolf against a tree. When the wolf shifts into a naked human female, explanations are in order. When she wakes, and Wynn says he means her no harm, she allows his human brother to carry her into a cave, where Vika cares for her. Wary about the golden-haired shifter’s mission, Wynn fears for her safety, and his heart.

While tracking the human who murdered her lover, Kera awakens to find a dragon staring at her. With no energy to shift back into her wolf form, she allows Vika, a pretty human, to care for her. The dragons take up her search for a killer, but the pirates close in and she leads Vika to safety.

In the village of Morbhan, Toal abducts her and Wynn fights him. Her wolf pack wants her back, but the dragon has stolen her heart. Will she stay, return to her pack, or die while trying to kill her lover’s murderer? Either way, their lives will forever change.

Excerpt from SMOKE, Clan of Dragons, Bk#2

The dragon moved toward her as it circled the tree. Its long white fangs glistened, and its hot breath melted the snow at her feet. Kera searched the area for a weapon. Unfortunately, the snow around the tree was heavy, and had covered everything.

Gazing upward, she thought to grab a limb and climb to safety, but she stopped when an odd voice said, “I apologize.” Who spoke to her in the presence of a dragon? Curiosity would be her downfall someday, but she peered from behind the tree and saw the green dragon, and only the dragon.

“Did you…say something?”

I be speaking to a dragon? Did I hit me head as well?

“Aye, lass,” the dragon said. “I apologized. I did not mean to throw you so hard, but your wolf form surprised me. There be friends of mine nearby whom I wish to protect. I can…ahh…see you be not only a wolf.”

With her secret out, a weight lifted from her shoulders. “I, also, apologize. I hope I did not hurt you by walking on your head. I heard something fall from the mountain, then I smelled you and…I was too curious for me own good.”

“You have a lovely smile, but I see pain in your eyes. Be you injured?”

She nodded, then immediately wondered if admitting her vulnerability made her a target. While contemplating her next move, the dragon leaned closer and sniffed her hip.

“No blood. You should come with me.”

Before she could answer with a resounding nay, a roar shook the tree, and dumped snow from the branches above them, onto their heads. The cold blanket of white powder stole her breath, and the ground rumbled beneath her feet. She clasped the tree’s trunk to stay on her feet. Pain sliced along her leg, and brought tears to her eyes.

Kera gained her balance, and peeked again. Another dragon had joined the first, and he looked angry. Smoke curled from his nostrils, and his red scales glistened like fresh-spilled blood. His black wings flapped, sending waves of cold wind directly at her, and the tree.

“Calm yourself, brother. The lass be injured, and not a threat to anyone.” The green dragon moved closer, and shielded Kera with his white wings.

“I smell wolf and human. You know how I feel about humans!”

 

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Buy Links

Amazon    Amazon CAN    Amazon UK    Amazon AUS

Amazon Print   Barnes and Noble Print   B-A-M   Book Depository

More About the Author

Nancy Lee Badger loves chocolate-chip shortbread, wool plaids wrapped around the trim waist of a Scottish Highlander, the clang of broadswords, and the sound of bagpipes in the air. After growing up in Huntington, New York, and raising two handsome sons in New Hampshire, Nancy moved to North Carolina where she writes full-time. Nancy is a member of Romance Writers of America, Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, Fantasy-Futuristic & Paranormal Romance Writers, Triangle Association of Freelancers, and the Celtic Heart Romance Writers. Nancy and her family volunteer each fall at the New Hampshire Highland Games surrounded by…kilts!   

Connect with Nancy Lee Badger

Blog     Website     Twitter    Facebook   Goodreads     Amazon Author Page

 

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October 3, 2016 · 7:54 am

“10 Moments That Changed My Life” by Author Kimberly Keyes

I am pleased to introduce today’s guest, Kimberly Keyes, a delightful new author friend, who is sharing the moments that changed her life and her latest release…

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  1. The first pivotal moment that comes to mind, is when I met the man who would be my husband. I knew right away I’d met someone special. Sure enough, he turned out to be the love of my life. We married five short years later haha. I often likened my husband to a thoroughbred—beautiful, talented, and temperamental.
  1. My husband was part of a package deal, and the day we married, I became a step mom. Toughest job you’ll ever love? Oh yeah. My step-daughter blessed me in so many ways—and continues to do so now that she’s *grown*.

Love seems to be the theme here, doesn’t it?

  1. The next moment has to be when I found Frank on the side of the road in an industrial part of the city. Who is Frank, you ask? A Florida black dog. The president of the Black Dog Club. A pacifist. The leader of the Quakers. A pilot for Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force. Okay, you might be scratching your head now. Yes, I admit to creating wild tales surrounding my puppy boy while talking in a funny pretend puppy voice. Suffice it to say finding that seven week old mange-covered puppy 16 years ago was the best thing that ever happened to me.

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  1. One thing hubby always did right (besides allowing me to adopt rescue puppies) was to support my dreams—like urging me to complete the masters degree I put on hold before I met him. Let’s call this moment the day I decided to finish my masters in history. Because writing my 200 page thesis not only grew my writing and research skills, I acquired the all important ability every author needs: sit-butt-in-chair-and-write.
  1. After graduating, I took a hiatus from reading all things non-fiction. Instead, I binged on romance novels. I’m not sure how many books I devoured before the thought struck: I wanted to write romance novels.

The desire wasn’t new. In high school I announced my desire to be a career romance novelist. People laughed and rolled their eyes. More dispiriting than that, I didn’t know anything about anything. How could I write an entire book? So I tucked my dream in a box and shoved it beneath my bed. But the time had come. I unearthed that dusty box and I decided to write a historical romance. I hadn’t finished drafting the first chapter before realizing I’d found what I was always meant to do. Writing is my calling. I cannot begin to express the joy it gives me.

  1. I entered my 100,000 word baby in a writing contest, and not only didn’t I win, I came in 50th out of 50 in my category! It hurt! I had a choice to make, keep writing and learn my craft or quit. The latter was an impossibility, so I forged on and got better. Of the last six contests I’ve entered, I’ve finaled in five. Yay me!
  1. Life was going along pretty well. And then…I was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. IBC has a pretty high mortality rate, so the outcome looked grim. My new normal was going to chemo appointments, sleeping, and seeing family and friends whenever possible because, hey, if you’re going to die you have to make the time. Surgery followed six months of treatment, and radiation came after that. During the span of my treatment I had tons of support, family and friends who loved me, and a husband who did everything he could to be there for me, from going to every one of my doctor’s appointments to dying his hair pink to bring attention to the cause.
  1. I survived.
  1. Soon after my treatment ended and I was on the mend from the cure that is chemo, surgery, and radiation I faced my biggest challenge yet. The disease we’d fought so hard to beat had taken its toll on my husband. Something in him broke, is the best way to put it. Long story short? I got divorced. It was hands down the hardest thing in the world I have ever faced. But I never faced it alone. I had and have the unswerving love and support of my family, friends, and, of course, my black dog club headed up by Frank-Foo—and my faith.
  1. I put my head down and pushed on. I did not survive cancer to crumple up and die of a broken heart. It was time to start a new chapter. As Ms. Wolff says so well, “A woman must have money and a room of one’s own to write fiction.” So, I bought a house, set up my office in my nice little house, and equipped it with dog beds for the BDC. Within two years (after having written for over six years with the goal of publication) I signed not one but two contracts with The Wild Rose Press. Lover’s Leap, a contemporary romance, was my first published book, and The Trouble with Tigers, a Victorian romance came out next. I’m now a multi-published romance author and well on my way to being a best selling author! (According to me *grin*)

Oh my gosh, Kimberly. What a roller-coaster of pivotal moments. I love that you ended on such a positive note, and thank God you survived the breast cancer. Thank you for joining me today!

And now, please tell us about your latest release…

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BLURB:

After finding her fiancé in bed with another woman, Candace, a twenty-something, up-and-coming romance novelist takes off for a friend’s vacation home in Tahoe.  The good news? She’ll share the place with fellow house guest, Logan, her best friend Eric’s lover.  Except…

Logan, the nearly-irresistible-to-women photographer, isn’t Eric’s lover.  Not now, not ever.  He’s in Tahoe licking his own personal wounds, and before he’s allowed near Candace, he’s sworn off of her.  No problem.  Except…

There’s something about Candace.  She’s not simply beautiful and enticingly off-limits.  It’s in the way she doesn’t flirt with him. In the way she treats him like he isn’t a shallow pleasure-seeker. In the way, somehow, she brings peace to his world-weary soul. 

Too bad she thinks he’s gay.  But even if he can clear that hurdle, can he really entrust Candace’s heart to his own haphazard keeping?  

EXCERPT

After a while she turned to gaze at Logan’s profile.  One tanned forearm rested easily on the steering wheel, the other settled over the stick shift, just inches from her upper thigh.  Her eyes drifted over his long, denim covered legs, stretched out in front of him in an almost leisurely sprawl.  It struck her she couldn’t remember ever feeling so utterly feminine, and so totally safe, in a man’s presence.  Being with Logan felt so…right.  

The peace inside her snapped in the face of her inappropriate affection for a man she hardly knew.  A man involved with one of her best friends–who also happened to be a man.  She dragged her gaze away, pinching her eyes closed and fisting her hands in her lap.  What in the world was wrong with her? 

“Everything all right?” Logan asked, his words piercing the silence. 

She shot him a look and saw his eyes flicking over her clenched hands.  Did the man miss nothing? 

She forced her hands to unfurl.  “Just thinking.”  Over thinking.  So she enjoyed his company.  That was no crime.  Besides, it was already Wednesday and he’d be leaving some time this weekend.  How much trouble could she possibly get herself into? 

BUY LINKS:

Amazon:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B014T3FG8O/ref=smi_se_mit_rcol_smi_2537928482?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1&pldnCmp=rcol&pldnCrt=my-impact

Ibooks:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/lovers-leap/id1040722478?mt=11

Barnes and Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lovers-leap-kimberly-keyes/1122591025?type=eBook

The Wild Rose Press:

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=191&products_id=6445

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BIO:

Kimberly writes single title contemporary and Victorian era historical romance, and is in her happy place working on two books in the two different genres, simultaneously.

The bulk of her time she spends writing, and re-writing, plotting, and dreaming up ways to perplex the characters living inside her head (though she squeezes in a bit of Yoga practice and binge-watching episodes of Game of Thrones and Outlander).

She lives in sunny Florida where she enjoys the unswerving support of her family, and most especially her three faithful companions: Frank, a.k.a. “President of the Black Dog Club,” who she found wandering on the side of a busy road when he was about 7 weeks old, Pappillon, a twenty pound rescue puppy from Puerto Rico who looks like she could be from Who-ville, and Roxanne, a tiny bit of miniature dachshund wonderfulness she inherited from her mom. The three are constantly by her side offering love and encouragement, and occasionally demanding chewies.

Contact links:

Website

www.kimberlykeyes.net

facebook

https://facebook.com/kimberly.keyes.romance

Amazon

http://amazon.com/author/kimberlykeyes

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14291041.kimberly_keyes

Twitter

https://twitter.com/AuthorKeyes

 

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September 19, 2016 · 1:18 pm

Welcome, Guest Author Tena Stetler today! Author of ‘A Witch’s Journey’

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A Witch’s Journey  –  Blurb:

Pepper McKay comes from a long line of powerful witches. Unfortunately, magic brings her nothing but trouble. She learned the love of wildlife rescue and rehab from her Aunt Ashling. After graduating from college, Pepper works for Salem Wildlife Sanctuary and lives from paycheck to paycheck until she inherits the McKay property in Lobster Cove. With the family land and resources, she dares to dream of starting her own wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.

Lathen Quartz, a former Navy SEAL turned handyman maintains the enchanted McKay property for the McKay estate. But someone is trying to steal the McKay magic. Lathen offers to help Pepper achieve her life-long dream of building a wildlife center. During the long hours spent together on the project, their mutual attraction can’t be denied. But each harbors a deep, dark secret. Will they overcome their demons and give love a chance?

Psst – I’ll let you in on a little secret. The sequel to A Witch’s Journey will be out during the holidays 2016. A Witch’s Holiday Wedding.  Don’t miss it!

 

 

Buy Links:

 

A Witch’s Journey  – New Release

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B01F0LRJ7U

The Wild Rose Press: http://catalog.thewildrosepress.com/all-titles/4349-a-witch-s-journey.html?search_query=A+Witch%27s+Journey&results=2

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/a-witch-s-journey-1

Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-witchs-journey-tena-stetler/1123770497?ean=2940158155598

All Romance Books:   https://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html

 

Excerpt:

Leaning over, Lathen’s arms enveloped Pepper calming her angry energy. “You okay?”

She nodded. A faint orange glow emanated from her palms slowly spreading to her fingers. A tiny spark snapped at the tip of her pinky.  His large hands eased over hers to stop the progression of sparks. A vibration of feet pounding the ground had them both glancing up as a uniformed police officer sprinted toward them.

Lathen listened while Pepper gave her statement. He added what he saw and they were released. On the drive to the cabin, Pepper rested her head on his shoulder, his arm wrapped around her. Nostrils flared as he inhaled her citrus and wildflower scent mixed with the adrenaline that fueled her flight or fight response, now diminishing as she relaxed against him.

For the first time since that terrible day his SEAL team’s mission had gone horribly wrong, the sensation of phasing had thrummed through his body as he shoved his way through the crowd to get to Pepper. He actually had to restrain the response. Could I have phased? Was the overwhelming desire to protect Pepper so ingrained, his wolf’s physical ability to shift kicked in? He didn’t have the answers tonight, but… Restless in the seat, he flexed his torso and leg muscles. A coiled ready-to-spring sensation felt familiar. A slight smile crossed his lips.

Pepper tilted her head up to peer at him. “Uncomfortable?” She tried to slide over giving him more room, but his arm tightened around her pulling her closer.

“Never felt better in my life,” he said confidently. The predator awareness was back, and he reveled in it.

Her eyebrow arched in question as he felt her eyes linger on him and shot her a quick glance.

“So has trouble always followed you around?” he wanted to know.

“…Nooo, well, not exactly. At least not to this level. You’re aware of the final incident in Salem, but the ten years prior was calm, except for deadbeat boyfriends.”

“Which, I am guessing, is why you learned to defend yourself so well. Magic didn’t do it for you?”

“Magic is hard to use in the presence of mortals. Besides, it’s forbidden. You know that.”

Lathen raised an eyebrow. “Someone forgot to tell Mr. Green or Mr. Bonchard. And what about those flying feathers the night Tom showed up at your place?”

She shook her head. “I still have no idea what happened that night. Must have been the cabin or land, some kind of protection enchantment that triggered it. Glad no one else saw. Need to talk to Ashling. Seemed the feathers took on a life of their own.”

“Oh—Green saw, all right. He was babbling about all kinds of things as they took him away.”

She shrugged. “Strange, if he’s any type of magical creature, he’d know better than to say such things.” Pepper looked up at him, her forehead creased. “Things just don’t add up.”

The truck slowed to a stop in front of the cabin. “We’ll remember this Fourth of July for years to come,” Lathen commented with a frown.

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Ten Moments That Changed My Life.

 

  1. Losing my job due to downsizing in 2014.  I’d written stories most my life, but when this happened after being at the job over 14 years, I decided with my hubby’s support it was time to live out my dream of being a published author. After the initial shock of losing my job,  I polished up A Demon’s Witch manuscript. After overcoming my fear of book submission.  Yes, people, it’s a real phobia, a close friend and my hubby insisted that I submit a query letter and synopsis.
  2. Request for a full manuscript and The Wild Rose Press contract that followed.  My husband was out of town when the email arrived that TWRP wanted to contract A Demon’s Witch. I was so excited I called and could do nothing but squeal in his ear.  Finally, I settled down enough to tell him I hadn’t lost my mind, but A Demon’s Witch had a contract.
  3. Holding that debut novel in my hand was beyond my wildest dreams.  I was a published author, now I wanted more.  The rest, as they say, is history.
  4. Promotion. What a learning curve!  For a person who didn’t facebook, thought twitter was for the birds, this was foreign territory. I took a class on building web pages, signed up for Facebook and figured out how to tweet with the help of other authors. I built and maintain my own website at www.tenastetler.com, post three times a week to FB and Tweet daily. What a shock to the system. LOL
  5. Additional contracts for Charm Me, A Witch’s Journey and my 2016 holiday release, A Witch’s Holiday Wedding made my first year with TWRP fantastic!! I’m working on the second book in the Demon’s Witch series, now.
  6. The purchase of a fifth wheel trailer and RVing over the country as vacation time allowed.  I love to hike, kayak, go whitewater rafting, and bicycling in the state and national parks of our great country.  In fact, this past weekend, on a camping trip to Cheyenne Mountain State Park, I finished the first draft of the second book in the Demon’s Witch series.  Yippee!
  7. First real date with a wonderful man who became my husband. We went to see the original Star Wars movie.
  8. It was a whirlwind courtship, he proposed and we were married four months later.
  9. The death of my mother changed me in so many ways. I miss her every day. It changed the way I looked at life.  Life is short, don’t put off enjoying it, because you’re not guaranteed tomorrow, no matter your age.  It changed my tolerance for mean-spirited people.  And made me realize the value of kindness and paying it forward.
  10. It’s not changed my life yet, but I am so enjoying planning our wedding anniversary celebration to Disneyland (Star Wars Adventure) and Universal Studios (Harry Potter’s World). Our long time best friends will be joining us!

BIO:

Tena Stetler is a paranormal romance and cozy mystery author with an over-active imagination.  She wrote her first vampire romance at the age of twelve, to the chagrin of her mother and the delight of her friends. Colorado is home; shared with her husband, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-year-old box turtle.  Any winter evening, you can find her curled up in front of a crackling fire with a good book, a mug of hot chocolate and a big bowl of popcorn, unless a deadline looms.

Contact Information:

Website: http://www.tenastetler.com

Blog: http://www.tenastetler.com/my-blog

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/tenastetler.author

Twitter Page: www.twitter.com/TenaStetler

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14187532.Tena_Stetler

The Wild Rose Press: http://catalog.thewildrosepress.com/1264_tena-stetler

Amazon:  www.amazon.com/author/tenastetler

Newsletter: Sign up at www.tenastetler.com

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/tenastetler/

 

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July 10, 2016 · 9:26 am

“10 Moments that Changed My Life” by Author Janie Franz

Please help me welcome author Janie Franz, who is sharing the moments that changed her life and her series, The Bowdancer Saga…

 

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It was hard to pick just ten moments. I’ve lived a long time and there are many more.

  1. The Scholastic Book Fair in school. My mother, bless her, always managed to pay for all the books I wanted to buy when I got the sales flyers at school. She valued books but couldn’t read very well herself.
  2. Discovering in seventh grade that other people’s input could change a story (whether I wanted it to go that way or not) when a friend wanted me to write a happy ending to a story I wrote. I discovered at that young age that I didn’t write quite like others wanted, but I had to be true to my own style and what I had to say.
  3. Taking a creative writing course in high school and getting my first check for a published work. However, it wasn’t for my specialty: short stories. I was paid for an essay and two poems. That sort of set the tone for a large part of my life that followed.
  4. Having to make a critical decision in college on whether to pursue art or writing. When I hit a wall in my advanced drawing class, I went to my professor and told her that I was at a crossroads. She said that she had to do the same thing when she was first in college. She chose art. I chose writing. Art would always be a big part of my life but only as a hobby.
  5. The births of both of my children and later my two grandchildren. I was told by a wise La Leche League Founding Mother that once you become a mother, it profoundly changes your life. She said you will always be a mother, no matter how old your children are and that it also affects how you interact with others throughout your life.
  6. Going back to college to finish my degree at 49, but not in English or Creative Writing, but in Anthropology, my second love. I discovered I could pull from all of my previous life experiences (as well as reading broadly, writing for non-profits organizations, tutoring college students with learning disabilities, and editing professors’ journal articles) and see a whole picture. A student told me that I didn’t need to work so hard for my A. I told her that I wasn’t there for a GPA. I was there because I was fascinated by the subject matter.
  7. Booking and doing publicity for my son’s groove/funk band. I’d been helping him do some booking and publicity before they were signed by a local record company. When that company failed to book them in places that matched their style, we bought out of the contract and I took on those duties, booking locally and two national tours. I learned a lot about how to use the computer for research, how to schmooze club owners, how to mount a continuous marketing campaign, and how to promote in general.
  8. Starting my own freelance writing/editing business in 2000. I took everything I’d learned about computer research and promoting and applied it to looking for work—not getting an editor to buy my pitched story–but a writing job that would generate more work. I broke every rule I’d been taught about landing a writing gig. I spent the next few years interviewing all sorts of people and writing literally about everything from medical articles, music and dance, art, pavement, dental labs and dentistry, food and wine, and science.
  9. Getting my first book published in 2009, the first book in the Bowdancer series. I eventually moved that book and two more to MuseItUp Publishing when my contracts expired. I already had eight titles with Muse and plan on publishing many more. I have used all of my experience marketing a band by trying to market myself as an author.
  10. Having to start over after a divorce and moving to a new part of the country. I healed and rediscovered lost pieces of myself as I adapted to a new climate and landscape. I’ve discovered new cultures here in New Mexico, and I’m surrounded by archaeological sites that I’d only read about in college. I’m fitting into my independence and learning more life lessons. This all inspired my self-help book, Standing Strong: Honoring the Unexpected Changes in Our Lives (Lessons along the Journey of Becoming a Woman of Power), which is currently being reviewed by a psychologist.

Oh my gosh, what a life you’ve led. Very touching about your mother. What a gift she gave you. Wise words about motherhood. Once you become a mother, everything changes. I know what you mean about finding it difficult to only pick 10. I have tortured guests by asking them to do so, but the tables were turned when I did the same on an author friend’s blog. It IS difficult to pick only 10. You did an excellent job, though. Very pivotal moments. Thank you so much for sharing.  

 

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Blurb:

The Bowdancer series chronicles the life of Jan-nell, a young healer and keeper of tribal lore, who seeks belonging as she discovers a vast world outside of her village. The Bowdancer Saga presents her early years in that quest as she discovers rogues, bards, kings, beespinners, and muscular sword dancers with as much grace as the bowdancer herself, and many unusual beliefs and lifeways as she seeks to create family in some form.

Excerpt:

The arrow flamed in a yellow arc across the night sky, like a trailing star portending some great event. And in truth it did this night, the night of the Great Moon of Full Summer. This night the bowdancer’s arrow signaled a solemn rite and a village celebration—the union of Merin, the tall horserider, and Co-rell, the blonde chosen-daughter of Wise Woman Dan-da-nell.

They were often seen among the white mares in the meadow. Merin’s long hair flowed behind him as he raced to grab a handful of yellow-white horse mane nearly the same color as his own. He would swing himself upon a sleek back of one of the mares and come racing to scoop Co-rell high onto the horse with him, cradling her in his arms like a happy squealing child.

Jan-nell, the bowdancer, knocked the last burning signal arrow against her bowstring. She smiled as her mind composed the quatrains of an idyll to the horserider and his bride: white against white like playful doves, spirit folk.

When she released the arrow to call in the stragglers from the outlying farms, she shook her head and altered her imagery. No, not spirit folk, just sleek horses riding the meadows enjoying the fullness of coupling and sweet grass. But this young stallion and his mare would grace the village children’s tales and lessons. Jan-nell would see to that. Co-rell and Merin were the stuff of legends. She would gladly give the young ones a dream. They need not know that Merin could not speak a sentence without coloring the shade of a retiring sun and much preferred the silent movements of horses to men.

Jan-nell had spent too many early mornings drilling Merin in the wedding words he was to speak to Co-rell. There were only five short speeches, but they were impossible for him to remember, much less speak them to a woman. Finally, on this wedding morn, he had been able to say the words to Jan-nell without much stumbling. She did not know if he could repeat them at moon-rise to Co-rell.

Jan-nell frowned as she ducked into her solitary thatched hut some little distance from the village edge. She wondered why she remained with such simple wits. From a shelf above the stone fireplace she had laid with her own hands, she brought down a pot of scented oil and set it on the hearth to warm. Taking a small piece of cloth, she wiped the smoke from her large bow.

 

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Bio:

Janie Franz comes from a long line of Southern liars and storytellers. She told  other people’s stories as a freelance journalist for many years. With Texas wedding DJ, Bill Cox, she co-wrote The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book and The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book, and then self-published a writing manual, Freelance Writing: It’s a Business, Stupid!  She also published an online music publication, was an agent/publicist for a groove/funk band, a radio announcer, and a yoga/relaxation instructor.

Currently, she is writing her tweveth novel and a self-help book, Standing Strong:

Honoring the Unexpected Changes in Our Lives (Lessons along the Journey of Becoming a Woman of Power)

Contact Links:

https://authorjaniefranz.wordpress.com

https://janiefranz.wordpress.com

https://thebowdancersaga.wordpress.com

https://museituppublishing.com/bookstore/index.php/our-authors/56-our-authors/authors-f/145-author-43673

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May 18, 2016 · 8:13 am

“10 Moments That Changed My Life” by Author Pamela Thibodeaux

I am pleased to introduce today’s guest, Pamela Thibodeaux, who is sharing the moments that changed her life and a book bundle for sale…

 

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#1: Although it ended in divorce, the day I married my first husband definitely changed my life. I went from a high-school girl to a married woman and a short one-year-and-two-months-later, I fulfilled the lifelong dream of becoming a mother.

#2: Born three years, nine months, one day, two hours and fourteen minutes apart the birth of my two children will always be moments that changed my life! 

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#3: July 14, 1992 I married the love of my life in the back yard of our home.

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#4: December 2000 I received an email acceptance for my first novel! Although more were to come, and each is exciting in itself, there’s nothing like that initial contract.

#5: June 2002 I co-founded Bayou Writers’ Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana and for six years acted as President and Treasurer and overall ‘everything’ (with some help of course!) before handing the reins over in 2008.

#6: Everyone says there is nothing like having that first grandchild and I must admit that old adage is true. 2004 was a rough year. My dog died, my grandfather died, my daughter was experiencing a toxic pregnancy, I was hit by a drunk driver-totaling my car and throwing my life into a tailspin with “situation induced” depression. Without a doubt, the only bright spot in that entire year was the birth of my Angel Girl.

#7: April 4, 2006 ushered in the birth of our first grandson and we flew to WA to visit him when he was just a few weeks old.

#8: 2009 was another year of excruciating hardship intertwined with inexpressible joy. The love of my life passed away August 18th, but God brightened the months before with the birth of our 2nd grandson in May 27th. 

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#9: The 2010 “Saddle up and Write” retreat at the Silver Spur guest ranch in Bandera, TX changed my life because it opened the door to new friendships and a place where I can escape that brings me peace beyond measure and joy unspeakable.

#10: They say what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. That I’m still alive after losing my mother, mother-in-law, honorary aunt, and cousin in the span of two weeks in 2014 is a testament to that fact and the grace of God in our toughest circumstances.

Thank you for sharing those sad and happy moments. And for including the lovely pictures. 

And now, please check out Pamela’s awesome book bundle…

Tempered Series Bundle 

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Now all 4 titles in the Tempered Series by Pamela S Thibodeaux are combined into a single book along with a bonus short story and a sneak peek into #5 in the series Tempered Truth (coming sometime in the near future)!

Contains: Tempered Hearts, Tempered Dreams, Tempered Fire, Tempered Joy, & Lori’s Redemption

Start at the beginning and follow these beloved characters throughout the years as love crosses the lines of age and strengthens the bonds of friendship. 

Title: Tempered Hearts (book 1 in Tempered series)

Blurb: Rancher Craig Harris and veterinarian Tamera Collins clash from the moment they meet.  Innocence is pitted against arrogance as tempers rise and passions ignite to form a love as pure as the finest gold, fresh from the crucible and as strong as steel.  Thrown together amid tragedy and unsated passion, Tamera and Craig share a strong attraction that neither accepts as the first stages of love.  Torn between desire and dislike, they must make peace with their pasts and God in order to open up to the love blossoming between them.  It is a love that nothing can destroy when they come to understand that only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.

 Title: Tempered Dreams (book 2 in Tempered series)

Blurb: Dr. Scott Hensley (introduced in Tempered Hearts) has built a wall around his heart since the death of his wife and parents.  Katrina Simmons is recovering from scars inflicted on her as a battered wife.  Can dreams be renewed and faith strengthened?  Can they find joy and peace in God’s love and in love for one another? 

Title: Tempered Fire (book 3 in Tempered series)

Blurb: Amber Harris is a good girl on the brink of womanhood. Stanley Morrison is a young man at the start of his life. For each other, they have always felt the fireworks that two people in love should feel. But the questions about his past, his pride, and Amber’s father might be the end of what could be a strong relationship. As the two try to protect their budding romance, some unlikely but powerful forces conspire to keep them apart. Will they survive the wishes of everyone around them with their relationship intact?

Title: Tempered Joy (book 4 in Tempered series)

Blurb: All around rodeo cowboy and heir to the Rockin’ H Ranch, Ace Harris is determined not to fall in love.  He’s only loved one woman in his life, his mother, and no one can even come close to filling her boots. Lexie Morgan thinks rodeo cowboys have rocks for brains and a death wish for a soul.  A broken childhood and the death of her father and best friend leave her doubting and questioning God (despite her years of religious upbringing) and afraid of love. Can two young people who clash from the onset learn to trust in the healing power of God and find love and happiness amidst tragedy and grief? 

 Title: Lori’s Redemption (short story spin-off of Tempered Fire)

Blurb: Lori Strickland (introduced in Tempered Fire) has always been known as her father’s “wild child” with no desire to change until she meets ex-bull-rider-turned-preacher Rafe Judson. Her attempts to change her wanton ways come to naught until she realizes redemption only comes with true repentance.

 Purchase Links for Tempered Series E-bundle

Nook: http://bit.ly/1Xv6l2Y

Kindle: http://amzn.to/1TlaExp

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1SzkRoi

 Author bio: Award-winning author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, “Inspirational with an Edge!” ™ and reviewed as “steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message.”

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Links:

Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com

Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com

Face Book: http://facebook.com/pamelasthibodeaux

Twitter: http://twitter.com/psthib @psthib

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

Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1jUVcdU

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May 5, 2016 · 7:40 am

“10 Moments That Changed My Life” by Author Chrys Fey

I am pleased to introduce today’s guest, Chrys Fey, who is sharing the moments that changed her life and her new release…

 

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  1. Spine Surgery

When I was fifteen I had spine surgery to correct scoliosis. My spine was curved at a 48-degree angle and was twisted. I spent five days in the hospital after doctors used fusion and a titanium rod to fix the curvature. Before my surgery, I spent every day in pain. After it, I had a hard recovery and had to learn how to do daily activities with limited movement in my back. I remember how strange it felt to walk, and go up and down stairs. I didn’t think I’d ever heal, but I did. And what I went through made me a stronger person.

  1. The First Time I was Inspire to Write

One day, when I was twelve-years-old, I sat down on a small grassy hill next to my house after a game of basketball. I was playing with the sharp blades of grass when my fingers brushed something stuck deep in the roots—a crooked screw crusted in orange rust. For the strangest reason, a story came to me about an extraordinary girl in an alternate world. I grabbed an old notebook and wrote fiercely. I’ve written ever since.

  1. Fire

Also when I was twelve, a series of fires erupted in my city. I remember heading home from school and seeing the black plumes. My best friend’s dad said, “It looks like it’s right next to your house.” Sure enough, it was. I was dropped off to see flames consuming the brush and trees a mere foot from my home. My house survived, but one of my cats didn’t. Her name was Angel. She had run out the door…toward the fire. She returned late that night badly burned. She died a few days later on my thirteenth birthday. Fires still scare me today.

  1. Hurricane Francis

Hurricane Francis, a category 5 hurricane, hit Florida in 2004. Her worst happened at night while I was asleep. In the morning, I found my neighbor’s fence flat on the ground, the roof over my porch torn, and my garage door crumpled. I spent a week with my family without power and had to get MRE’s from FEMA in order to eat. This experience inspired my novella Hurricane Crimes.

  1. Bye-bye School

When I was seventeen, I left school. Not because I was pregnant or a delinquent or anything like that. I was just going through difficult family times and found myself unable to go for several reasons. That circumstance, however, really did change my life.

  1. GED

After I left school, I got my GED when I was twenty-one. I hated seeing my friends graduate high school and move onto college, but that just wasn’t in my cards. I am proud of what I did though. That GED hangs proudly on my wall.

  1. The Birth of my First Nephew

I fell in love (heart and soul) for the first time in my life when I met my nephew. I held him in the hospital, looked down at his precious face, and knew I was a goner. He is now ten-years-old!

  1. Signing with The Wild Rose Press

I was in a bad place emotionally when I sent TWRP my manuscript. I was sinking deeper into a depression, feeling like a failure, and desperately wishing for something to change. Then it did. I received a positive email from the Senior Editor of the Crimson Rose Line (romantic-suspense) and soon had a contract. Thanks to my editor, I have published a total of 5 projects with them.

  1. Hurricane Crimes

The day I published Hurricane Crimes, I finally felt like a winner. I was a published author! Then I received awesome messages from readers and reviewers that pushed me to think about the fate of this story. What happened before it? What happened after it? And that’s how the Disaster Crimes Series was born.

  1. The Great Kitty Rescue

At my old apartment complex, a stray cat gave birth to 4 babies. I tried to take care of the mommy and babies the best I could. I offered shelter on my screened-in porch and gave them food and water. One day, the mom disappeared. I don’t know where she went, but before she left she made sure that her babies knew I was good. Every evening they crept onto my porch for dinner.

Sometime later, a woman with obnoxious twin boys (who I had seen throwing rocks where the babies sheltered at night, knowing they were there) was trying to grab them out from under the shed. She was unsuccessful, and I took action. That night when the babies came for their dinner, I did something drastic…I put the plate inside my house and waited for them to enter. When they did, I quietly slide the glass door shut. One of them freaked when he saw the door closed, but after a few minutes they were completely fine. It took them a few weeks to get used to seeing me so close, but they soon warmed up to me. October of this year will make it three years since they’ve been members of my family—Cole, Clover, Milo and Otis.

Wow, Chris, those are some fascinating, life-changing events, I’ll have to say. I loved hearing about your journey and how writing and publishing helped to pull you out of depression. The Wild Rose Press is a fabulous publisher…so glad you found a home there. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

And now, please check out Chris’s new release, looks like an excellent read!!! She’s also sponsoring a giveaway…the Rafflecopter link is at the bottom of the post.

 

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BLURB:

An Internal Affairs Investigator was murdered and his brother, Donovan Goldwyn, was framed. Now Donovan is desperate to prove his innocence. And the one person who can do that is the woman who saved him from a deadly hurricane—Beth Kennedy. From the moment their fates intertwined, passion consumed him. He wants her in his arms. More, he wants her by his side in his darkest moments.

Beth Kennedy may not know everything about Donovan, but she can’t deny what she feels for him. It’s her love for him that pushes her to do whatever she has to do to help him get justice, including putting herself in a criminal’s crosshairs.

When a tip reveals the killer’s location, they travel to California, but then an earthquake of catastrophic proportions separates them. As aftershocks roll the land, Beth and Donovan have to endure dangerous conditions while trying to find their way back to one another. Will they reunite and find the killer, or will they lose everything?

 

Digital:

Amazon US: http://amzn.com/B01CRJSPIU

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01CRJSPIU

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01CRJSPIU

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seismic-crimes-chrys-fey/1123508790?ean=2940158028380

KOBO: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/seismic-crimes

All Romance eBooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-seismiccrimes-1999825-153.html

The Wild Rose Press:

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=195&products_id=6740

 

Print:

Amazon US: http://amzn.com/1509207252

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1509207252

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/1509207252

The Wild Rose Press:

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=191&products_id=6793

 

 

ChrysFey

BIO:

Chrys Fey is the author of Hurricane Crimes, Book One in the Disaster Crimes series, as well as these releases from The Wild Rose Press: 30 Seconds, Ghost of Death, and Witch of Death. She is an administrator for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group and has participated in the Blogging from April A to Z Challenge.

When Fey was six years old, she realized she wanted to be a writer by watching her mother pursue publication. At the age of twelve, she started writing her first novel, which flourished into a series she later rewrote at seventeen.

Fey lives in Florida and is always on the lookout for hurricanes. She has four adopted cats who keep her entertained with their antics, and three nephews who keep her entertained with their antics. You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and through her blog, Write with Fey. She loves to get to know her readers!

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website www.ChrysFey.com

Blog www.writewithfey.blogspot.com

Facebook www.facebook.com/chrysfey

Twitter https://twitter.com/ChrysFey

HURRICANE CRIMES 99¢ SALE!

 

  

DIGITAL LINKS:

Amazon US / Amazon UK 

Amazon CA / NOOK / KOBO 

All Romance Ebooks

The Wild Rose Press

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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April 4, 2016 · 8:17 am

“10 Moments That Changed My Life” by Tracee Lydia Garner – PLUS: Anchored Hearts (Inspirational Romantic Suspense)

I am pleased to introduce today’s guest, Tracee Lydia Garner with her MUST READ  list of moments that changed her life…

 

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I’m so excited to share a few tidbits about me here at Author Alicia Dean’s blog today. Thank you so much for having me and for this opportunity. As I was writing this I was thinking wow this all seems so serious. It’s really not. It’s just life if you think about it, an inspired life, I hope, but just tidbits of a life just the same, and I hope you find it kind of interesting. 

For the theme, I selected 10 moments that had a big impact on my life all the way from being born to present day so number. Here I go, in chronological order as they appeared in my life (I hope): Enjoy. 

1-Being born to GREAT, Faithful Parents  – I know, I know, I have absolutely no control over this and I’m an upstanding, well functioning adult but I also have a disability and at times, I’ve witnessed and seen what can happen when your parents aren’t altogether. AND make no mistake it doesn’t matter how you start, it matters how you finish, but I’m glad to have been given the opportunity to start off so well.

2-Making peace with limitations – I don’t know when this happened, but I’m almost sure it happened before the age of 22. At some point I learned to accept my disability. I have Muscular Dystrophy and I use a wheelchair. Faith plays a huge role in my life and probably back in my early 20s, I told myself that this might not change and that no weapon formed against me shall prosper – honestly, this is a scripture verse that bears repeating. I’m also 40 and I’m still doing pretty good.

3-A power chair – you’ve seen the manual ones, the ones people with pretty strong arms (not me) push themselves around? I wasn’t that type -I have a neuromuscular disease mind you- and while my first chair was a manual one, unbeknownst to my parents, I used to hire friends (paying them with push pop candy lollipops and other sweets) to push me around the school hallways. When sixth grade came around, I finally got a chair that I could operate with the flick of my wrist. Free at last I was. Truly.

4-Applying to college and getting accepted. I remember getting the letter from a big college that had accepted me. I didn’t think I was college material and as I went that first year, I found that I liked it a lot.

5-The Blizzard of 1996. I had just received a brand new computer and at the time I was an intern with the federal government. I was 18 years old and the blizzard came and I was furloughed for two weeks that the government decided to shut down. Obviously, it was a shutdown like the ones of today, more about politics, paralyzing inactivity of government and funding cuts, than it  was about the snow at the time. We did receive 20 inches however. Regardless, I remember staying up till all hours of the night tinkering on my brand new machine and really teaching myself how to use it. I never had a computer class and I was in my first year of college. I remember my parents asking me if I was ready to go to sleep for the night and my answer would always be “No”. Technology really does have an impact. I’m convinced without that time, I probably wouldn’t have been able to sell 35K books five years later (traditionally published) if I hadn’t spent the time getting to know how it all worked. Technology is such a powerful tool.

6-First Time Writer’s Contest Entry and Subsequent Win! At 23, I entered the manuscript I had written and finished. I prayed and I sent it off to a large publisher who then was hosting a major writing contest. Months later, I would find out I won which meant publication, a trip to NYC and an a small monetary advance. And I wish that people could go around having moments of validation every few months. We all need that and it rarely happens and you just keep putting in the time.

7-Learning to Drive – Most people don’t know that due to my disability, for me just about everything, every huge thing that I want in life, requires a little more effort than most. Such was the case with not only, first obtaining a ramp accessible van, but then also a way to get the costly technology that hand controls would afford my being able to operate the van properly. We often take freedoms that seem to come fairly easily to some, for granted.

8-Graduation. Because I’m the creative type…that should be enough said, right? It took me forever to get through school. But I did and staying the course, even on and  off over several long years is okay.

9-This may not seem all that life-changing but discovered I like design. Not sure how this will serve me but with programs like Canva.com, and even just actual design and adaptation for myself as I alter my world to make it more accessible, I seem to have a knack for employing some very basic household items, however I can, to “MacGyver-ing” them into accessible and functional things for me. Those are two different design aesthetics I realize, but I’m excited that perhaps one day, the ideas will pay off or just help a select few and that’s okay too!

10-Being a Model.In 2015, I participated in the Bold Beauty Project, DC – a photography project that selected 20 local area women, ALL having different kinds of physical disabilities. It was an awesome experience, one I’ll never forget. All the models including me can be found here: www.BoldBeautyProject.com. There’s even a documentary being made and I’m featured in that too!

Wow, Tracee, what an inspiring, heart-warming list. Not all that serious at all. Well, serious, but also uplifting and fun. 🙂 I am honored to have you share your journey on my blog today and so pleased to make your acquaintance. Your accomplishments are awe-inspiring.

And now, check out Tracee’s book. It sounds fabulous!

(Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon buy page)

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BIO:

By day, Tracee Lydia Garner is a full time social worker assisting area people with disabilities to navigate their community and increase inclusion on behalf of the disabled population. At night, she turns on her writer self and has penned five novels with a sixth title on the way this year, the sequel to Anchored Hearts, which is tentatively titled, A Warm Embrace. She is a national best-selling and award-winning author and she also speaks frequently and teaches an 8-week writing course at the college level. With little spare time left, she enjoys reading of course, marketing, event planning small soirees and she loves to shop.

Contact Links

Visit me at Teegarner.com

Follow me @Teegarner

 

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March 21, 2016 · 10:02 am

Ten Moments that Changed My Life by Alanna Lucas – PLUS a New Release – Waltzing with the Earl & a Giveaway!

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Alanna Lucas, and the moments that changed her life…

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  1. Getting my driver’s license. I love to drive! I’ve even done a lap on the Nurburgring in Germany!
  2. Studying Art History in Paris, France in my sophomore year at college. After that semester I decided I wanted to go to grad school. Ten years (and one child) later, I graduated with a Master’s in Art History.
  3. Marrying my husband 17 years ago. He has been so supportive through all the ups and downs of my career and has always encouraged me.
  4. Buying my first house (which was built in 1929). I had to become quite proficient at minor electrical and plumbing.I was evenable to install a Fleck water softener in my plumbing this year.
  5. The birth of my daughter. Motherhood has been an interesting and incredible journey!
  6. The birth of my son- the most caring little man!
  7. Deciding to homeschool both my kids. We have a little “school room” with several desks and a bunch of books. It isn’t for everyone, but we have had a lot fun (and some challenges) along the way.
  8. Going to my first writer’s conference and discovering how little I really knew about the industry. I still feel quite green at times 😉
  9. Winning Boroughs Publishing Group’s ‘What’s in a Name’ contest. The winning novella was Face to Face, the first book in the In His Arms series. I have written eight books for Boroughs.
  10. Being on the California Dreamin’ 2017 conference committee. I am working with some amazing and talented ladies. The support and friendship within the committee makes all the hours that go into planning this event so worthwhile.

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Blurb:

Believing he is cursed, Tristram, Lord Trevena, the Earl of Longstone, agrees to do just one favor for a friend, to dance with the man’s sister, but the beautiful and headstrong Isabel Albryght will settle for no less than claiming his lonely heart. 

A PROPHECY FORETOLD 

Raised by her doting older brother, Isabel Albryght grew up cosseted and protected. She enjoyed her life in the country, her books, and her freedom. Then her brother married. Within months Isabel’s best friend married. It seemed it was time for Isabel to marry, too. Socially awkward and a bit too keen for most of the ton, Isabel proceeded to have the most horrible season on record…until she was approached by Tristram, the Earl of Longstone. 

Two dances. That was all Tristram could offer anyone when considering his family curse, which had taken all he loved in the last ten years, so his promise to the beautiful Miss Albryght’s brother was simply that. The ton would soon see she was a desirable partner, her awkwardness would fade and other young swains would beat feet to her doorstep. But then he held her in his arms, and the delightful Isabel became his beating heart. Headstrong and full of passion, she believed she might waltz them away from Death. She alone could tempt him to try.

Excerpt:

The temperature in the room rose by several degrees—it was positively sweltering. Isabel did not know how much longer she could tolerate standing in the midst of hell, surrounded by a mixture of unidentifiable odors and loud boisterous laughter. She thought her head would explode.

Closing her tired eyes, she brought her gloved hand to her temple. Isabel could feel her body sway, but was unable to stop the motion. She could not even gather her wits about her to stamp down, or even beg, the feelings to cooperate. Isabel could sense another mishap was forthcoming, which further added to her distress. And she had been doing so well.

A gentle hand came to her elbow. “Allow me to accompany you onto the balcony for some fresh air, Miss Albryght.” Lord Trevena’s voice broke through the haze. His tone was soft and full of concern.

Isabel opened her eyes; they felt thick and heavy, and still out of focus. Tristram somehow managed to maneuver her through the crush without bumping into anyone. The moment they reached the unoccupied balcony, the cool evening breeze cleared the haziness Isabel had been fighting in her head.

They strolled to the edge of the balcony, partly hidden within the shadows, and clear of any curious gossipmongers. The garden beyond was concealed in darkness, but the lingering scent of blooming roses wafted through the air. Tristram released his gentle hold on her arm. The absence of his hand made her heart lurch, wanting more.

Isabel turned to face him. Even in the dim light, his clear blue eyes sparkled like stars in the night. She struggled to find the words, but when they finally came, they would not stop.

“Thank you for coming to my aid. I am quite recovered now. The room was quite warm and the noise…”

“Isabel,” Tristram said in a deep husky tone. Her name on his lips sent a jolt of excitement through her body.

Taking a step closer, he brought his hand to her face, his gloved thumb dancing intimately across her cheek. Her heart pounded against her ribs, practically stealing her breath.

“Lord Trevena.” His name exited her lips in a breathy gasp.

He bent his head and whispered his name across her cheek. “Tristram.”

Isabel could not imagine anything more sensual than this moment. She lifted her chin, and their cheeks brushed. His lips were so close, but still too far away. His warm breath teased her senses. Closing her eyes, she waited for his kiss.

***I’m giving away an e-copy of Waltzing with the Earl. For a chance to win, please share a moment that changed your life.

Click HERE for the ‘Waltzing with the Earl’ Amazon Buy Page

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Author Biography

Alanna Lucas grew up in Southern California, but always dreamed of distant lands and bygone eras. From an early age she took interest in art, history, and travel, and enjoys incorporating those diversions into her writing. However, she believes that true love is the greatest source of inspiration and is always an adventure.

Alanna makes her home in California where she spends her time writing historical romances, dreaming of her next travel destination, spending time with family, and staying up too late indulging in her favorite past time, reading.

Social Media Links

www.alannalucas.com

https://www.facebook.com/alannalucas27

https://twitter.com/alannalucas27

 

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February 6, 2016 · 9:12 am

“10 Moments that Changed My Life” by Liz Tyner – PLUS, her new release, THE NOTORIOUS COUNTESS

Please welcome my dear friend, Liz Tyner…

 

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 Ten (Mostly Unplanned) Moments that changed my life:

  1. I was too young to read, but my mom asked me to tell her a story. She wrote it down and said she would keep it with the “important papers.”
  2. My husband said he wanted to go to college—which also led to moment #3.
  3. At age twenty-five, I went with someone applying for a job, showed them how I thought the application should be filled out, and ended up working there twenty years.
  4. At twenty-six, because of #3, I had to put writing non-fiction articles aside, so I began a novel, which four years and 100,000 words later was a story with a sagging middle. My energy sagged. I soon stopped writing. As in “I quit. I do not want to do this anymore.”
  5. My husband said I needed a laptop computer. I didn’t think I did.
  6. Because #2 turned out well, and I didn’t like #3 particularly, I put in a job application somewhere else and ended up with more spare time.
  7. With #5 being so handy, I wrote a 60,000 word journal about violin lessons—which was another unplanned event in my life. (Yes, you can end up in a violin class without really planning to but that’s a long story—a 60,000 word one.)
  8. It snowed. Roads were bad. I started a writing a story thanks to #5, #6, and #7. I wrote four rough drafts of short novels in approximately a year.
  9. So now I really wanted a book published. The writer’s conference site in Nashville flooded after I’d signed up, and I ended up flying to the new conference location in Florida alone, which led to me deciding later to fly to NY with friends, and then back to NY—alone—and I’d never flown until after I was forty.
  10. Someone didn’t show up for their pitch appointment after I traveled to Atlanta for a writer’s conference, and I was in the right place at the right time, and met an editor from Harlequin who agreed to look at my historical romance…

Wow, Liz. Great stuff. What a series of seeming mishaps that turned into a blessing. 

Check out Liz’s book and the gorgeous cover!

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Blurb:

“People must have something to talk about… And I do make for a good tale.” 

After escaping an unhappy marriage, Lady Riverton enjoys her notoriety among the ton…even if her reputation isn’t deserved. But when she’s caught in a most compromising position with Andrew Robson, for the first time the truth is even more scandalous than the rumors! 

And yet, in Andrew’s arms, Beatrice finds she’s no longer defined by her reputation and is free to be the woman she truly is. Is it time for Beatrice to trust in Andrew and end her reign of scandal once and for all?

Excerpt:

                Sitting shoulder to shoulder, aware of every one of her curves, he forced himself to think of plans for Beatrice’s reintroduction into society.

                She turned her face to him. From the gentle brushes of movement at his side, he knew he need move only the barest amount and she would be in his arms.

                “I don’t think your sleep quite agreed with you,” she mumbled. “You look quite grim.”

                He nodded, aware of her fluid movements, confined by the seat, and yet she didn’t still. Her body moved constantly, checking its boundaries.

                She coughed and lost all seriousness. “Did you, um, think of me last night?”

                His thoughts jumped from her body to her words. “Of course.”

                Her shoulders wobbled and she managed to squeeze so close to him he braced himself not to be pushed out of the other side of the conveyance. Tickles of warmth moved from the place she touched to flood his entire body.

                Wide eyes blinked at him in feigned innocence. “I do have a place in the country. Except it’s rather crowded. My mother’s there.”

                “I was trying to think of ways you might impress the ton.”

                “I did not think of that once after you left.” She moved closer to her side of the curricle. “They cannot be impressed by me. I assure you. They’ve spent too many teatimes murmuring about what has happened in my past.”

                Andrew slowed the horse.

                “Past. Present. The future. You must only think of the future now. I don’t believe anyone is really aware of the events of the night yet,” Andrew mused, “so I want us to be noted today. A pre-emptive move for when Tilly’s words are spread about.”

                He ignored the skepticism on her face. “Also you might adopt a worthy cause and pour yourself into it. A cause which shows your heart. With your ability to draw attention, you’ll gather print. At first people will be unimpressed, but over time you’ll gain acceptance. People are fascinated when others change from what is expected. Think of reformed rakes. Ordinary people into war heroes. Women who sacrifice for others. Those gather a lot of discussion.”

                “So you think to tame the Beast.”

                “I think for you to tame her,” he said. “Things have been exaggerated in your past and now you will merely control what is noticed and embellished.”

                She gave a distinctive grimace and touched the blue at her sleeve. “Not the carriage incident.”

                “You must also refrain from rolling your eyes in public, I suppose. And smirking. And using scissors.”

Fabulous excerpt! Sounds like a great read. Readers, you can check it out here:

http://www.amazon.com/Notorious-Countess-Liz-Tyner-ebook/dp/B015CJXXY8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1448639838&sr=8-4&keywords=liz+tyner

http://liztyner.com

https://www.pinterest.com/liztyner1/

liz

Safe in My Arms—My First Book: Safe in the Earl’s Arms

 

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January 23, 2016 · 9:20 am

“10 Moments that Changed My Life” by Sharleen Scott – PLUS, her new release, TANGLES

Please welcome today’s guest, Sharleen Scott…

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  1. On May 18, 1980 Mt St Helens erupted and my hometown was directly in the ash trajectory. I worked for the local newspaper and was one of the few people allowed in the downtown area following the eruption. The ash turned day to night and no one knew what damage it would do. We still find ash in the flowerbeds.
  2. My roommate and I had a housewarming party and she invited a friend who…
  3. I married eighteen months later.
  4. Our son was born. I’d been working as a travel agent for eleven years and started my own home-based agency so my son wouldn’t go to daycare.
  5. My daughter’s birth turned the agency into “Nap-Time Travel” until the two kids decided naps weren’t going to happen. I chased kids while booking cruises and airline tickets.
  6. September 11 brought changes to the world and directly affected my small travel agency. Within three years, I sold my office.
  7. To fill the void after losing my beloved travel career, I began writing and studying the craft of writing. The first attempt will stay in the back of a desk drawer. The second and third (the start of a romantic suspense series) received great comments from beta readers and made me think I had a chance at this whole writing thing.
  8. Then my mother-in-law was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and my father-in-law with inoperable prostate cancer. We became caregivers.
  9. I continued writing as a way to deal with the situation and wrote my third novel, Tangles.
  10. I published Caught in Cross Seas and Caught in the Spin in 2014 and Tangles in 2015. I’m currently writing book three in the Caught series. I doubt my life will be the same again.

Thank you for sharing, Sharleen. Very interesting. I’m sorry about your mother-in-law and father-in-law. My best friend’s mother passed away from Alzheimer’s last year. It’s a horrible, horrible disease. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

Check out Sharleen’s book…sounds like a moving and compelling read…

 

TANGLESCOMPLETE2ebookcover

Blurb:

While faced with the challenge of his mother’s escalating Alzheimer’s disease, Logan McKinnon discovers secret journals that leave him questioning everything he knows about his family. With no one to ask, Logan must find a man mentioned in the journals to discover a truth he may not want to know.

Excerpt: (This excerpt follows the life changing moments theme of the blog.)

Logan exhausted the file cabinets by 9:00 p.m. and still hadn’t located the insurance policies. Thinking there could be more files in the closets, he poked around until he found a locked box marked Personal in the top of the guest room closet. It was heavy and locked. He didn’t find a key, but rather than give up, he jimmied it open with a screwdriver. Hoping to find file folders, he was disappointed when the contents were books and notebooks, all numbered and dated.

He sat on the floor and selected a white book marked Number One. He opened it to the first page and was stunned by what he found. The first entry, with its childish scrawl and misspelled words, made him smile.

April 1936

Dear Jurnal, My name is Lois and I am six. Mama says girls like to rite stuff so she gave you to me. I hope we can be frends and I can tell you my secrets. Love, Lois

July 1936

Dear Jurnal, Larry called me a bad name today. I dumped mud on his head. Daddy spanked me. It hurt. Big brothers are icky, and I hate him. Don’t tell anyone. Love, Lois

Logan doubled over with laughter as he read his mother’s diary. He knew it was wrong, but he couldn’t stop. The entries were short but telling of Lois’ early life, and he found himself engrossed. Hours passed as he read the entries detailing her fights with her older brother, Larry, stories of her cat named Puffpuff, a dog named Hunter though he was gun shy to the point of terror, and he sniffled when he read about the day she stopped hating Larry.

April 1939

Dear friend, my grandpa died today and I’m sad. When Mama told me, I ran to the barn and cried until my stomach hurt. Puffpuff tried to make me feel better but it didn’t help. Larry found me and I yelled at him to leave me alone. He said he was sad, too, and wanted to cry with me where no one would see him. Boys aren’t supposed to cry. He held my hand and we cried together. I promised I wouldn’t tell anyone he cried. I think Larry is an okay brother after all, but don’t tell anyone I said that. Love, Lois

Logan placed the journal in the box and closed the lid. He stared at it, debating if he should return it to the closet where it belonged and leave it alone. His curiosity won, and he shoved the box in a corner and covered it with a blanket. The late hour caught up with him, and he stripped off his clothes and climbed into bed. Blissful sleep came quickly.

 

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Bio:

Sharleen Scott lives in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, Brett, two college kids, and two spoiled cats.

http://www.sharleenscott.com

Buy links:

Amazon Kindle and Paperback: http://amzn.com/0991589041

Nook: http://tinyurl.com/kvoc797

Apple:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id990513887

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/tangles-2

 

 

 

 

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