Tag Archives: second chance romance

December 16, 2025 · 7:25 am

Author Interview with Maxine Douglas ~ Deceitful Promises ~ American Historical Romance

Please help me welcome today’s guest, my friend and fellow author, Maxine Douglas…

Please tell us a little about yourself, where are you from? Where do you live now? Family? Pets?

I am originally from Wisconsin, born and bred, but my late-husband and I moved to Oklahoma after I retired from my day job after nearly 30 years. I share my home with my shelter cat, turned cover model. Simon. Maybe I should saw Simon’s shares HIS home with me. I have one son, two granddaughters, and two great-grandchildren.

Is there anything you’d like to tell us about how this book came to be?

Deceitful Promises went through a few changes. I went from a story with two mail-order brides and two grooms, to its current version. I just couldn’t wrap my head fully around the original theme, and after brainstorming with a few friends settled on the current storyline. Plus I LOVE The Gilded Age on HBO, and it’s an era that I’d like to write more of.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read Deceitful Promises?

To never give up on love and finding your soulmate. In this story, it’s reconnecting with your soulmate. Sometimes fiction imitates life.

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

Actually, three of the main characters in Deceitful Promises were all inspired by actors in The Gilded Age: Louisa Jacobson as Clara Wakefield, Kelley Curran as Lydia Blackwell, and Harry Richardson as Larry Sanford. And last but not least, Anderson Reimer as Kit Dawson.

Would you rather have a bad review or no review?

I’d rather have a bad review simply because I know the book was read, or at least I hope it was. As a rule, I believe reading a book is subjective to the reader. Not every reader gets the same experience in their journey.

If you were stranded on a deserted island and you could have 3 (inanimate) objects, what would they be?

Tough question! I would want plenty of paper and pencils, as well as the good book.

Have you written any other books that are not published?

Yes! I am currently writing a small-town cozy mystery that is due to be released in April 2026. In Art of Deception The Art of Deception every masterpiece tells a story—this one whispers murder. I will also be working on my second Friday the 13th story title Lighthouse Cove set to be released on November 13, 2026.

Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?

When I first started writing way back when, I wrote what I knew and the people knew. Now I’d like to think that as much as my characters and their situations are fictional, they do carry a bit of me in them somewhere.

What do your friends and family think of your writing?

My family is very supportive, even if they haven’t read any of my books. My brothers and my son said they don’t want to know what goes on in my creative brain. LOL  Several friends continuously buy and read my books, which warms my heart in the best way possible.

Your favorite…

Movie I have so many it’s hard to choose just one, but I do enjoy the Hallmark movies from time-to-time.

Music Country or classic rock from the 1960s-1990s

Place you’ve visited My late-husband and I travelled the US a lot from coast to coast.

TV show from childhood Walt Disney’s Zorro was my first Bonafide hero!

TV show from adulthood The Gilded Age, Outlander, Bridgerton, to name a few.

Sports team Why the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badgers Football

Which do you prefer: Board games/card games or television? LOL All three!

This Christmas, in the heart of the frontier, promises can deceive—but love never lies.

When Kit Dawson asked for an early Christmas gift to find his way in the newly developed Unassigned Lands, he didn’t anticipate that Lydia Blackwell, a bride hand-picked by his father, would arrive expecting to immediately become his wife. Nor that a woman from his past, lady detective Clara Wakefield, on the trail of a suspected fraudster, would also land on his doorstep.

Secrets, misunderstandings, and unforeseen circumstances test and challenge them all to face their deepest desires and find the true meaning of love. 

Did Santa know Kit’s dreams would clash with harsh realities, love, secrets, and unforeseen alliances?

Excerpt:

Late Fall, 1889

Wildwood, Unassigned Lands

Kit brushed off Larry’s warning once again. He knew time was of the essence to do the one thing he was far from ready to do. Find a wife and get married before his father tried to force him to come home and marry some socially acceptable woman he’d chosen for him.

“I suppose I’ve got to find someone suitable to marry,” Kit answered, looking at the landscape painting he’d been working on. Painting had been his passion in college. Here in an untouched world in comparison to New York City, it had grown, giving him peace.

“You know your father will choose for you since you’ve held up your end of the financial bargain.” Larry shook his head. “And just so you know, you’ve only got ninety days.”

“Not really enough time to fall in love with the lucky lady,” Kit muttered under his breath, adding a stroke of light blue to the canvas. Unless he finds the only one who had his heart, he’ll have to settle for companionship with someone else. “Falling in love doesn’t happen every day, my friend.”

Dawson Residence

East 61st Street

New York City

Madame Harper walked with natural grace over to the settee, sitting on the very edge of the cushion. She’d been a woman well brought up to advance in society, and she had done just that for the most part.

“I heard from your son just this morning. I received a telegram instructing me to send my selection per his instructions,” Madame Harper said, smoothing a wrinkle from her skirt. “I have Miss Blackwell, per your directive, with me. I trust it is time to send her to your son.”

“Is she agreeable to the arrangement then?” Oscar asked, hovering over one of the wingback chairs before sitting down.

“She is, understandably, hesitant and suspicious, but eager,” Madama Harper replied. “However, given her somewhat sketchy background I am convinced that she comprehends the benefit that awaits her by accepting the arrangement. Unless, of course, you find her unsuitable given her reputation.”

“I would like to talk with her alone, if you don’t mind,” Oscar said, getting up and ringing for Lewis. “I must make sure there isn’t any chance of this plan going astray.”

“Of course, I’ve done all that you’ve asked; the rest is up to you now, Mr. Dawson,” Madame Harper said, as the butler opened the door.

Madame Harper relinquished her seat, pausing only a moment before following Lewis out the door. “This is your chance, Lydia,” she suggested, turning and nodding to Oscar.

It was all Oscar needed. He’d get this little bird to bend to his will before Mrs. King arrived with the coffee.

“Miss Blackwell, please have a seat,” Oscar offered, motioning to the settee Madame Harper had just vacated.

“Mr. Dawson, I understand you have a proposition for me?” Lydia asked, the lavender silk rustling as she crossed the floor. “I’d rather get down to business, as I understand time is of the essence.”

Buy links:

Amazon KU US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPGL6NCT

Amazon KU UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FPGL6NCT

Print: https://books2read.com/u/baQRp8

Goodreads: Deceitful Promises by Maxine Douglas | Goodreads

BookBub: Deceitful Promises by Maxine Douglas – BookBub

About the Author:

Award-winning author, Maxine Douglas writes in many genres and found a love for western historical romance. A Wisconsin native, Maxine resides in Oklahoma. While Maxine may miss her family and friends in the north, she loves the mild winters Oklahoma has to offer.

Having found love in 2001 and then losing the love of her life in 2018 to cancer, Maxine hasn’t given up on believing in true love. She hopes that she expresses that feeling with every story she brings to life through her writing.

Maxine is a current member of the Oklahoma Writers’ Federation, Inc. and its affiliations Central Region Oklahoma Writers and Oklahoma Romance Writers Guild. She is also a member of the Romance Writers of American, The Friends of the Chickasha Public Library, and serves as a Board Member on the Chickasha Area Arts Council.

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October 8, 2025 · 5:00 am

Amber Daulton – Career Forged in Blood & New Release: Lost in His Spiderwebs – #DarkRomance

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Rubén Lozano…

I’m Rubén Lozano, the hero from Amber Daulton’s dark romance novel, Lost in His Spiderwebs. I don’t feel comfortable calling myself “hero.” That doesn’t fit me. Not at all. I’m an anti-hero, a villain with a decent side. If you’re someone I like, I can be a good guy toward you. Nice, funny, generous. If we’re enemies, then watch your back. That’s the only warning you’ll get.

Today, I’m going to talk about my career. I’m the leader of the Lozano Cartel, one of the oldest cartels in Mexico. It’s dark, deadly, dangerous—just like me. Being the boss is messy, and only the most fearless can survive it.

As a child, I was the forgotten second son. Papá focused all of his attention on my older brother, corrupting him and turning him into a monster. Even though I was raised in luxury, it came at a price—blood. Anyone who crossed the path of a Lozano had to pay. Everything I have, I earned with my fists. Or a knife, gun, machete—I’m not picky when it comes to weapons. Unlike my best friend, Enrique. He loves his damn blades. Anyway, I’m the third generation of Lozanos to rule the cartel, so I have some big shoes to fill. I took command last year after Papá died. My father and grandfather who ruled before me would turn over in their graves if they knew about the changes I was making to the cartel infrastructure.

No more unnecessary killing.

No more targeting civilians.

Do business as peacefully as possible.

Shed blood only when you run out of other options.

These changes aren’t popular with some of my underlings, but as the boss, they have no choice but to obey me. At least, that’s how it should be. One of my councilmen, Alroy Tenorio, and his flunkies are causing problems. A civil war brewing. With Enrique and my core group of trusted friends and confidants at my side, I’m more than capable of handling betrayers, but I’m distracted. Before you ask, yes, I’m distracted because of a damn woman.

Drina Cabrera.

Dios mío. My God. That gorgeous, infuriating woman will be the death of me. I keep thinking about her when I should be worrying about Tenorio stabbing me in the back. She’s wicked, fearless, and all mine. When I’m with her, I feel like I can do anything, accomplish any goal, become the man I was destined to be. The thought of losing her guts me. She shouldn’t have so much power over me, but here I am, telling you this when I need to staple my mouth shut. I need a son to carry on my legacy. But I want a queen, a woman to rule at my side, to advise me in tough situations. That woman is Drina. She just needs to let her down guard and accept my darker side into her life.

I’m nothing if not determined. Drina will be mine forever. The cartel will thrive under my leadership. For those who think to take either from me, think again. I’m not a man to trifle with.

Readers, if you want to know more about my business and my relationship with Drina, pick up a copy of Lost in His Spiderwebs. It’s a dark, angsty ride, so be prepared.

The cartel king has finally found his queen.

Kidnapped by the enemy. Bought by the jefe. Will his smoldering touch thaw her frozen heart?

Rubén Lozano, the new leader of the Lozano Cartel, craves peace amidst a legacy of bloodshed and death. He never expected to find his ex-lover, Drina Cabrera, in the clutches of his vicious rivals. Her haunted eyes compel him to rescue her, but freeing her is another matter.

After five months of captivity, Drina trades one captor for another. Though she succumbs to Rubén’s masterful touch, the bittersweet memory of her daughter and the life she was stolen from is a constant wedge between them.

When Rubén’s darkest secret comes out, he will have to wash his hands in crimson. Will Drina let her king face the danger alone, or stand at his side as his cartel queen?

– Book two in the dark romance series, the Lozano Cartel. All the books can be read as a standalone, but are part of an interconnected series.

Excerpt:

“Smile,” Rubén told her. “It’s showtime.”

She nodded and lifted her chin, wincing a little in the flashing camera lights.

As three hand-picked paparazzi snapped pictures of him and Drina from all angles, Rubén counted to thirty before he steered Drina past them to the music room.

“Wow,” Drina murmured as they passed the piano for the ballroom.

A massive chandelier gleamed from the lofty ceiling, its decorative crystals reflecting the soft white light and dancing spots across the ivory walls and the chattering, laughing guests. The live band played instrumental music at the far end of the rectangular room, where Esme’s team had set up fancy tables and chairs for the speech and dinner portion of the evening.

“Why do you keep this room locked up? It’s magnificent.”

He shrugged. “It’s a bitch to clean.”

His blunt answer steepled Drina’s eyebrows. “My, what consideration. I’m sure the housekeeping staff appreciates it,” she teased and pulled him onto the dance floor alongside several other couples. “Let’s dance.”

As her arms slid around his shoulders, he rested his hands on her waist. Her body heat and strawberry aroma enveloped him. Groaning, he gripped the thick fabric of her dress so hard that it bunched and the band of his rings bit into his skin. She rested her head against his chest, and her hair teased his nose. They swayed, lost in each other as though they were the only people around. A foolish notion, one he shouldn’t revel in. If he did, he would ravage her on the floor.

“You have a good turnout,” she murmured while he twirled her about. She spun back into his embrace. “Are any of these people your friends?”

“Hardly.” This was his world. Glamour, power, prestige. The public mask he wore to hide his sinister nature. “You’re swimming in dangerous waters. The sooner you realize I can buy and discard all these sharks and guppies with a flick of my wrist, the better off you’ll be.”

“I’m well aware you’re king of the sharks.”

He snorted, holding her closer. “You’re a barracuda. Lithe grace and sharp teeth.”

“Ooh, I like that.” She nipped at his chin. “I’ll never be a guppy.”

Damn right. As the song ended, he guided her off the dance floor. Duty called.

Buy links:

Universal: https://books2read.com/LostInHisSpiderwebs

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4joCJUV

BN: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lost-in-his-spiderwebs-amber-daulton/1147318586?ean=2940184374895

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/lost-in-his-spiderwebs

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=7lNYEQAAQBAJ

Apple/iBooks: https://apple.co/4jpLyht

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1648364

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231721773-lost-in-his-spiderwebs

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/lost-in-his-spiderwebs-lozano-cartel-book-2-a-dark-captivity-second-chance-romance-by-amber-daulton

About the Author:

Amber Daulton is the author of the Lozano Cartel, the Arresting Onyx, the Embracing You, and the Ramseys in Time series, as well as several standalone novellas. Her books are available in ebook, print on demand, audio, and foreign language formats.

She lives in North Carolina with her husband and demanding cats.

Follow Me: https://linktr.ee/AmberDaulton

Check out my website (Daulton Publishing): https://amberdaulton.com

Sign up for my Exclusive Newsletter (free ebook to new subscribers): https://amberdaulton.com/newsletter-signup/

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August 25, 2025 · 9:44 am

The Spotlight is on Lori Matsourani and her New Release: Ghosted ~ Contemporary Romance with a Touch of the Paranormal

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Lori Matsourani…

A haunted inn, a first crush, and a second chance for love with “help” from the resident ghost…

When her fiancé’s infidelity prompts Bethany Hendren to map out a new path forward, her plans are disrupted by an unexpected encounter with Nick Dorsey, who convinces her to help search for the remains of a troubled eighteenth-century ghost. Nick is the handsome summer boyfriend who ghosted her years ago, and now he wants to rekindle their relationship.

Despite her reluctance to trust him, Bethany discovers he’s still the funny, caring person who captured her heart as a teen, but giving him a second chance is risky—it could lead to love and happiness or result in another devastating heartache.

Although Bethany wants a happily ever after with Nick, does she have the courage to trust him with her future?

Excerpt:

As Mrs. Snowden spoke, a tall, dark-haired man entered the foyer. He wore jeans and a soft blue crewneck sweater that accentuated his lanky, yet solid, build. As soon as he saw Bethany, his face lit up.

“Bethany!”

He walked toward her as though they were long-lost friends, and she half expected him to pull her into an embrace. Then she recognized the dark chocolate eyes behind the black-framed glasses and her stomach lurched.

Nick Dorsey. He’s Mrs. Snowden’s nephew?

“Aunt Margaret told me you were checking in today.”

Stunned, Bethany stepped backward, bumping into the edge of the desk as her heart thudded. A white-hot flush scorched every inch of her skin as she stared at Nick. Of all the people she could run into, it had to be the first guy to break her heart? And why did he have to be so handsome, with that bit of hair curling over his forehead and late-day stubble?

She inhaled deeply to rein in her composure, hating her can’t-catch-your-breath reaction to him, then dipped her chin in a neutral acknowledgment.

“Hello, Nick.”

His smile morphed into a full-on, lopsided grin. “It’s been ages since I’ve seen you. Ten years, I bet. Not since the summer Zach and I got our drivers’ licenses.”

Mrs. Snowden laid her hand on Nick’s shoulder. “Bethany is staying in the Howard Room. Can you help her with her bag?” Then, turning to Bethany, she said, “Come back down when you’re ready and I’ll give you a tour of the house.”

As Bethany followed Nick to the second floor, the pain, questions, and self-doubts she’d buried years ago reemerged, seeping into her belly like liquid concrete. The last thing she needed was Nick Dorsey invading her healing zone. It had taken her months to get over the summer romance they’d shared—and he’d abruptly ended—when they were teens. And even longer before she could bring herself to date again.

And now he was in her safe space.

Buy link(s):

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F9XCPLYD/thewildrosepr-20

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/ghosted-lori-matsourani/22722837?ean=9781509262540&next=t&affiliate=114419

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ghosted-lori-matsourani/1147463084?ean=2940184606941

Books A Million: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/9781509262540

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/ghosted/id6746414091

About the Author:

Lori Matsourani is a romance addict. Give her stories with a touch of heartbreak and a spark of joy, and she’s happy. Throw in characters with a huge helping of heart and soul, and she’s up reading all night in romance heaven! While currently a Texas resident, Lori grew up near Baltimore and often draws on the historical flavor of Annapolis and Maryland’s Eastern Shore to inspire her story settings. She authored her first fiction story at twelve and has been hooked on writing ever since. Early on, her writing career focused on articles for magazines and newspapers before shifting to her first writing love—fiction. For Lori, connecting words to tell a story is like assembling a jigsaw puzzle, and she loves the challenge of creating every piece.

Social media links:

Website: https://lorimatsourani.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lori.matsourani.author/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lori.matsourani/

Goodreads Giveaway: Runs from August 1 to August 30. Enter here:

https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/418301-ghosted

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July 3, 2024 · 7:48 am

Author Interview with Margot Johnson ~ New Release: Some Other Way ~ #ContemporaryRomance #Blog #WRPbks

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Margot Johnson…

Please tell us a little about yourself, where are you from? Where do you live now? Family? Pets?

I’ve lived in the Canadian prairies all my life. My books are set close to home in some real and some imagined locations.

My best role ever is being a mom and now grandma to a big extended family.

I love dogs (especially golden retrievers) even though we no longer have one. Many of my characters love dogs too. My dream job is running a doggy hotel, but I think I’ll stick to writing.

My dad was a journalist, author, and editor, and he instilled my love of reading and writing. I hope he would be proud of my work, even if romance wasn’t his genre. My sister Donna Gartshore is also a writer. She writes for the Harlequin Love Inspired line.

What inspired you to write this book?

I know a young woman who gave up a baby in a private, open adoption, and she has remained involved in her child’s life in a surrogate-aunt type of relationship. Hearing about that experience was the seed of an idea that grew into Some Other Way.

Do you collect anything?

Nothing concrete, but my husband and I love to collect travel experiences. Some of our favorites are an annual trip to Mexico, a European river cruise, an Alaskan cruise, a tour of the Canadian Maritimes (where we visited the home of Lucy Maud Montgomery and the world of Anne of Green Gables), and enjoying the great outdoors in Waskesiu, Canada.

What was your first job?

As a student, I was a figure skating coach, and I have an upcoming novel set around a small-town skating rink.

My first job after graduating with an English degree was writing ad copy at a radio station. That’s where I learned to write under pressure.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read Some Other Way?

I hope they feel entertained, satisfied, and moved in some way. Hopefully they feel like no matter how ordinary a life might seem, dreams can come true.

Have you written any other books that are not published?

I wrote my first book with my sister. We alternated chapters without an overall outline and really had no idea how to structure a novel. It’s still sitting in a file somewhere, but I can safely say it will never be published. We’ve come a long way!

I have several works in progress at various stages that I hope will be published eventually.

Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?

They come from my imagination, although everything I experience influences me in some way so probably inspires my imagination. My best friend thought she recognized herself in one of my characters. Maybe they shared some qualities in common, but the character definitely wasn’t her.

What character in your book are you least likely to get along with?

I had fun writing about the town busybody, Louanne, but in real life, she would irritate me by not minding her own business.

Who is the most famous person you have ever met?\

When I was volunteering at a food program for kids, I met Prince (now King) Charles. He asked me if I had been busy peeling carrots.

How much of the book is realistic?

I hope the characters feel real to readers. Even though the small town is fictional, I tried to capture the prairie setting and the real-life warmth and resiliency of Canadian prairie people.

What advice do you give aspiring authors?

When people ask me for writing advice, I say, “Just do it!” Get your words on paper. You can always fix them later.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I’ve started posting about all kinds of happy things because in real life, we can all use more good news, happy thoughts and amusing anecdotes to make us smile. I’d love to hear your additions. Dog photos are always welcome too!

Chance to receive a free copy!

I’ll randomly choose one reader to receive an e-copy of Some Other Way. To be eligible, visit me at margotjohnson.ca and leave a comment about why you’d like to read it.

Maybe what she wants is not what she needs…

Jayne Jones is not as plain as her mother makes her feel. Her life is full as surrogate aunt to her birth daughter, given up in open adoption five years ago, and as leader of the Adopt-a-Dog service. 

More than anything, Jayne wants to expand the overcrowded dog shelter on a coveted piece of adjacent land.  When Dr. Evan Scott, her high school crush, returns to his hometown to enlarge the local medical clinic on the very same property, he complicates everything. 

Now her formidable opponent, Evan is ready to forget past hurts and embrace a fresh start with the cute girl—now attractive woman—he remembers. But should Jayne bare her heart to the good-looking newcomer? And will her open secret change his mind?

Excerpt:

Jayne crossed her arms. “I’m not interested.” A funny sensation rose and fell in her stomach. He was attractive and fun.

“Looks like he is. What are you afraid of, anyway?” Tasha tapped Jayne’s shoulder.

“Nothing. I’m not scared.” Jayne took a deep breath. “But the strangest thing happened.”

 “Ooh, sounds interesting.” Never drifting her gaze off Jayne, Tasha scooted back to her chair.

Jayne gripped her coffee mug. Evan was a mature professional, but every time she searched his large eyes and wide smile, she remembered inconsiderate, teenage Evan. Worse, she imagined his raised eyebrows at the situation with Cara. “To my total surprise, I invited him to the youth group on Friday, almost like I wanted him to come.”

“Surprises are good, girl.” Tasha stared and blinked three times before she spun her chair toward her desk. “You need a little excitement in your life.”

“Whatever you say.” Jayne rolled her eyes. At that moment, her office phone rang. She welcomed the timely interruption. “Good morning. Adopt-a-Dog. How can I help you?” She’d dive into work and forget her social life. She needed to strategize and build extra support in the next two weeks, or she’d never achieve her goal of expansion.

“Good morning.”

A male voice rumbled a greeting. He emphasized both words and delivered them with a tone of familiarity like she should recognize his voice. Of course, she did, but she paused and waited for him to continue.

 “Jayne, it’s Evan.”

Why did he call her at work? What did he need? Her heart beat much faster than normal.

Buy links:

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Indigo

Kobo

Goodreads

BookBub

About the Author:

Margot grew up in a family of writers and has always loved books and writing

Creating stories people love has been her lifelong dream. Now she’s the author of the romances Love Takes Flight, Love Leads the Way, and her new release, Some Other Way. She has also authored the Merilee Tours novella series, Let it Snowball, Let it Melt, and Let it Simmer.

Before turning her focus to the fun writing life, Margot held leadership roles in human resources and communications. When not writing, she loves to connect with family and friends, volunteer with SK Writers’ Guild, and walk at least 10,000 steps a day (except when it’s minus 40 outside!)  She lives in the Canadian prairies with her husband.

Contact Margot Johnson:

Website: margotjohnson.ca  

Facebook: MargotJohnsonAuthor  

Twitter/X: @AuthorMargot

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April 4, 2024 · 8:05 am

Author Interview with Jacquie May Miller ~ New Release: DO YOU TAKE THIS MAN? #Mystery #Blog #WRPbks

 Please help me welcome today’s guest, Jacquie May Miller with her wonderful new release…

What did you learn writing your first book that helped you write your second book?

I learned that an outline may be nice for some people, but it didn’t work for me. As soon as I started down one road, the characters took me on another path. I truly did not know how my first book was going to end until I got to the last few chapters.

I used that same philosophy with my second book and was very happy to meet some new characters I had never imagined until they showed up on the page. Writing is an emotional journey guided by a cast of interesting people (yes, I know they are not real, but my imagination might disagree) who led me to an ending I couldn’t have written without them.

Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?

They say you write what you know. My protagonist, Jack Madison, is the personification of my dad, Jack May. He’s been gone quite a while now and although he had a relatively happy homebody life, I could tell he would have loved a little more travel and adventure. Taking him on a cruise and involving him in a mystery was my way of bringing him back to life. Some of the other characters were patterned after people I know (including myself – Jamie is me, for sure), but others are pure figments of my imagination.

Oh, and the names were chosen for their similarity to the names of the people who inspired them.

If you could tell your younger writing-self anything, what would it be?

I would tell her not to listen to people who told her to ignore her dream of becoming an author.   Although I put my aspirations on hold for many years, I’m glad I finally dared to believe in myself and follow that dream.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read DO YOU TAKE THIS MAN?

I think this book is for my generation. I want them to know (me included) that there is hope for a second chance at love even in your 60’s and beyond.  And while life is full of challenges—hopefully not as challenging as being accused of murder—there is always a ray of sunshine trying to peak through.

Will their second chance at love lead to someone’s final journey?

Excerpt:

“What the hell do you think you’re doing, Mary Bradley? You can’t marry that son of a bitch. You’re still married to me!” Vern was moving closer, his six-foot two frame closing the space between them far too quickly.

“What do you mean? We’ve been divorced for almost two years.”

“Not in the eyes of the church, we’re not. Catholics can’t get divorced. Don’t you remember your religious upbringing? You made me convert to your damn religion and now I’m cashing in on the Pope’s words.” Vern took another step toward the newlyweds.

“Hold it right there, Vern. I’ve got a big ass knife in my hand, so don’t come any closer or I’ll use it, I swear.” She pulled the knife free from Jack’s hand and raised it high. “You never gave a damn about the church when we were married. You don’t get to find religion when it’s convenient.”

“I got a piece of paper that says you’re going to be excommunicated if you leave me.”

“I don’t give two shits about the church anymore. They never gave me any help when you were using me for your personal punching bag. They can’t kick me out—I quit!”

“You’re surely going to hell, Mary.” He moved closer, obviously not afraid of the knife that was now within striking distance of his oversized beer gut.

“I lived in Hell for over forty years. The church might not agree, but the State says I’m rid of you, so get the hell out of here.” She lowered her hand.

Buy links:

Amazon:       https://www.amazon.com/Do-You-Take-This-Man-ebook/dp/B0CBQK5Q2G=

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/193343075-do-you-take-this-man

Bookbub:     https://www.bookbub.com/books/do-you-take-this-man-by-jacquie-may-miller

B & N:         https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/do-you-take-this-man-jacquie-may-miller/1143774786?ean=9781509250691

About the Author:

Jacquie May Miller published her first article at age eleven in her neighborhood newspaper, the Nosy Neighborhood News. And now many years later (not saying how many) she has turned her love of writing into two published novels.(Thanks to her wonderful Editor, Ally, at the Wild Rose Press). Jacquie’s debut novel, THE PRICE OF SECRETS, is a work of women’s fiction which explores the tenuous thread connecting family and a love left behind so many years ago. Secrets of the past will either break or strengthen that slim thread, but not without a price. If you like her first novel, the sequel (a mystery), DO YOU TAKE THIS MAN? continues the story with an emphasis on the senior members of the family.  For a taste of her writing, Jacquie has created May Daze, a blog exploring the value of friendship, family and life’s little surprises. You will find her at http://www.jmaydaze.com where she has attracted a loyal following.

Social Media Links:

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/jacquie.m.miller

Twitter:      @JacquieRMay

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

Website:      www.jmaydaze.som

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March 22, 2023 · 6:19 am

Brenda Whiteside ~ Southwest of Love and Murder, Wild Horse Peaks book 2 #RomanticSuspense #Blog

Please help me welcome today’s guest, my friend and fellow author, Brenda Whiteside…

Writing murder mysteries is all in a day’s work until an obsessed fan brings Phoebe’s stories to life.

Blurb:

Mystery writer, Phoebe Anderson, owes her success to killing her first husband on paper seventeen years earlier. Now, someone has actually done it. Taking a few days to re-group on an isolated ranch, she doesn’t expect romance…or murder…to find her.

Mason Meadowlark is happy with his wild cowboy ways, avoiding love since the death of his baby and the end of his marriage twenty years before. When Phoebe shakes up his routine, he fights to control his emotions, fearing the pain of opening his heart again.

With an obsessed fan close on her heels, Phoebe is thrown into her own murder mystery…and the next target on the psychopath’s list is Mason.

Excerpt:

Phoebe shuddered and stilled.

Like the aftershocks of an earthquake, trembling overtook her body. Her knees wobbled, but Mason caught her before she collapsed.

“What’s wrong?” He hugged her briefly then brought his face even with hers. “Phoebe, tell me. Why are you shaking? What’s happened?”

“Oh my God, Mason.” She spread her hands on his chest and glanced back at the bathroom. “Tell someone to call an ambulance. Hurry!”

He took a step toward the ladies’ room, but she grabbed his shirtfront. “No!” She peered around him and shouted. “Someone call nine one one.”

Mason touched his pocket. “My cell’s in the truck.” He grabbed the shoulder of a male customer, the closest person to them. “You got a cell on you?”

The man nodded and pulled a phone from his pocket.

“Call nine one one right now. There’s been…” His face questioned her.

“Someone’s badly hurt in the bathroom. Oh hell, hurry!” She thumped her palms against his chest.

The man punched buttons on his cell as he raced into the ladies’ room.

Phoebe wrapped her arms around Mason, tipped her chin upward, and found the words. “It’s that waitress, Mason. Carla.”

His expression went blank, from concern for her to no comprehension.

“There’s so much blood.” She stifled a gag, the sweet, copper penny reek still heavy in her nostrils. “Her throat.” A shudder rippled the length of her body. “I think she’s dead.”

“What? How?”

“Christ Almighty.” The man staggered from the bathroom. “There’s a knife in her.” He stumbled past them, gained his footing, and stopped several feet into the dining room. His voice boomed above the slow chords coming from the stage. “There’s been a murder!”

The band stilled, and for an instant, so did the diners. A woman’s voice gasped, “Did he say murder?” Chairs scraped the floor, followed by the pitch of voices increasing. People left their chairs, and the room took on a chaotic motion.

A man near the stage stood and bolted toward the door. The sounds of sirens could already be heard in the distance. The man didn’t leave, but instead, blocked the doorway, raised his hands, and shouted, “Everyone stay right where you are.” He scanned the crowd. “Jake. Yeah, you. Go make sure the back entrance stays closed. No one is to leave.”

A gentle pat on her back released the tension between her shoulder blades. She moved with Mason as he shuffled her to the side of the hall leading into the ladies’ room.

His lips, soft against her earlobe, whispered, “He’s a cop.”

She folded into his tightened hug.

“Are you okay?”

“I’m nauseous.” The trembling lessened, but the effects of the ghastly scene still resonated through her. Carla’s head had lolled back, blood flowed from the gaping slash across her throat, and a knife protruded from her chest. Phoebe shivered. The scene was familiar. The residual odor of urine, blood, and pine air freshener clogged her head as if they’d combined to form a caustic cloud she’d inhaled.

“Understandable.”

Red lights could be seen through the curtained windows.

“There’s more, Mason. The way she is…how she looks.” She shook her head and shut her eyes tight. A shiver traveled the length of her body as she huddled so close against him an onlooker might not know where one body stopped and the other began.

Several uniformed policemen entered the front door, and after speaking to the off-duty policeman guarding the entrance, fanned out. One headed for the back of the restaurant, one took his position at the front door, and two hurried past them and into the ladies’ room.

“I can’t believe this.”

“I know, baby. Neither can I.”

A second later, paramedics rushed in and entered the restroom.

Her fisted hands on his back opened and caught his shirt in her fingers. “No, you don’t understand.” Her head was dizzy with the scene, a scene she’d created. How could this happen again? “It’s my book—”

Buy link:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNCKF9FB

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75571055-southwest-of-love-and-murder

https://www.bookbub.com/books/southwest-of-love-and-murder-wild-horse-peaks-book-2-by-brenda-whiteside

About the Author:

Brenda Whiteside is the award-winning author of romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery. After living in six states and two countries—so far—she and her husband have settled in Central Arizona. They admit to being gypsies at heart and won’t discount the possibility of another move. They share their home with a rescue dog named Amigo. While FDW fishes, Brenda writes.

Visit Brenda at https://www.brendawhiteside.com or https://www.facebook.com/BrendaWhitesideAuthor

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December 10, 2022 · 7:05 am

The Spotlight is on…   L. M. Gonzalez’s Chocolate Swirl Cookie Christmas ~ #WRPbks #Blog

Please help me welcome today’s guest, L. M. Gonzalez…

She didn’t believe in true love.

He vowed never to love again.

Excerpt:  

The place was decorated with twinkle lights and red, green, and gold garland. And then her eyes settled on Ray. Her breath caught in her throat as she glimpsed the bracelet of a gold watch at his wrist. He seemed a different man than the one at the Adult Center and the one in jeans who’d gone to her house. He seemed charming and sexy and likeable.

“They have a variety of entrees,” Ray said.

“Oh.” She hadn’t looked, so she opened her menu.

“What do you like?”

Jennifer stared, mesmerized with him. Oh, I don’t know—you. He grinned, and embarrassment filled her. He probably knew what she was feeling. And she

would not feel that way, not with him. Especially not with him.

“I’ll eat salad. I’m not very hungry,” she said.

“Umm…eating dinner together is the first step of the foreplay to romance, didn’t you know?”

“Romance isn’t sex.” She glared at him.

His smile didn’t falter. “Eating can be an aphrodisiac. Feeding each other can be very romantic.”

Jennifer swallowed hard at his words. “I’m not feeding you anything.”

“Jenny, this isn’t going to work if you don’t cooperate.” Ray winked at her.

Her nipples peaked at his wink, and she was glad  she’d worn a scarf. She picked up her glass of water.

“My name is Jennifer, not Jenny.”

“You don’t like nicknames?”

“Not from you.”

“I think I know now why you’re blocked in the love-and-romance thing. You’re tight. You need to loosen up.”

Buy link(s):

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/chocolate-swirl-cookie-christmas-l-m-gonzalez/1142331370;jsessionid=BFF4C52033403F74F472A5BE23FC9DB8.prodny_store01-atgap13?ean=2940186597636

Bio:  

L.M. Gonzalez writes about the loves and lives of Latinas and the challenges of romance the second time around. Her stories, set against a backdrop of strong Latino culture blended with an American lifestyle, are refreshing and capture the essence of everyday Hispanic life.

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