Interview with Jamie Richmond of Devious

by Sarah | May 8, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing

I’m happy to say that Mark Love was able to bring along his character,  Jamie Richmond of  Devious by today. I like her spunk…any time a heroine has a smartass side to her, she makes me happy.
*~*

1.  Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?

Jamie:  Well, I’m 31, single, the only child in an Irish American family. My father was a sculptor who was very successful. Unfortunately, he died when I was about seven years old. My mother decided that staying with one man made no sense, so she has been married many times since then, which makes me a little skittish about relationships. I’ve always been interested in writing, studied journalism in college and worked for newspapers for about eight years. I learned a lot about people and writing, which I now utilized for the kind of writing I was born to do. Mysteries!  I recently sold my first novel and I’m working on my next one.

The author read some of my columns and features when I was still working as a reporter. We met for coffee a couple of times. I think he liked my style. At times I can be a bit of a smart ass. I’m pretty observant, quick with a laugh. But I’m a redhead, so you know I’ve got a quick temper too!

2.  What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?

Jamie: Wow, that’s a tough one. There are different types of love. I mean, I really love Bert, my step-father. He was my mother’s third husband, from the time I was thirteen until I went to college. He’s always treated me as an adult, has always been there for me. We’re still close. Then there’s Linda, my best friend since we were six years old. I’d do anything for her. Now if you’re talking about romantic love, there’s a guy who recently entered my life. Malone. He’s charming and self confident and smart. One look from him and my knees come unhinged. He’s got these incredible blue eyes that pierce my heart. We’re still getting to know each other.  I think what appealed to me is that we met through my work several times before we started to date. By that time, we had developed this low key friendship. I was still nervous on our first date, but that’s fairly normal. (Laughs) He still makes me nervous.

3.  What’s your greatest fear?

Jamie: That I’ll do something to ruin the great thing I have with Malone. When it comes to relationships, I’m always looking over my shoulder at my mother’s crazy antics. I’m afraid that it’s hereditary and I’ll end up driving Malone away. But the longer we’re together, the more confident I’m becoming. I think.

4.  What’s your motto in life?

Jamie:  What the hell.  It’s an old expression from a dear friend. When I wanted to try something different, like writing mysteries, I figured, ‘what the hell’. You can either keep doing the same thing, or take some chances with life and see where it goes. I owe a good part of that philosophy to Bert, who has always encouraged me.

5.  How do the other characters in your book view you?

Jamie: (laughs) Stubborn, determined, self-conscious, shy, (yeah, I know) a smart ass, focused and creative. I’m stubborn about getting to the truth. I’m self-conscious about my body. I am definitely shy and a little awkward with guys. And everyone says I can be a real smart ass.

6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?

Jamie: Oh baby, I want to create the gossip fodder. And it’s even sweeter if it’s about me. (Laughs) I like to think I can keep a secret, but only if I have to.

7.  What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?

Jamie:  Readers will be able to identify with me. I’m a real woman, not some Hollywood creation that required assembly. While I doubt my body would stop traffic unless I am sprawled across the highway, I’m pretty okay with the way I look. Like many women, I struggle sometimes with my self-confidence. I might read too much into what someone says or does, wondering if there’s more to it than what’s on the surface.  But my heart is strong and true. I want the same things we all do: to have a few good friends we can count on, a job that I’m successful at, and someone to curl up with at the end of the day and love.

8.  What was your happiest moment?

Jamie: To share my successes with those closest to me. Having Bert, Linda and Malone in my life bring me happiness. Lately, having Malone in my life has certainly made me happy.

9.  What trait in others do you find most deplorable?

Jamie: Dishonesty. I can’t stand liars. Sadly, I’ve dated a few and when their lies tripped them up, they were out the door.

10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?

Jamie: (laughs) Oh, I’ve got to say red. Since I’m already a redhead, it only makes sense. Red can be bright and vibrant and glowing. My face turns red when I’m excited or embarrassed. It’s the color of roses, of blazing sunsets, of passion, of love. Yes, I am definitely a red.

*~*~*~*

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Blurb

Jamie Richmond, reporter turned author, is doing research for her next book. Attempting to capture the realism of a police officer’s duties while on patrol, she manages to tag along for a shift with a state police trooper. A few traffic stops and a high speed chase later, Jamie’s ride takes an unexpected turn when she witnesses the trooper being shot. Although it is not a fatal injury, Jamie becomes obsessed with unraveling the facts behind this violent act. While she is trying to sort out this puzzle, she becomes romantically involved with Malone, another trooper with a few mysteries of his own. Now Jamie’s attention is divided between a blooming romance and solving the crime which is haunting her. Jamie begins to question the events that took place and exactly who could be behind the shooting. It was a devious mind. But who?

Excerpt

The first time on the sofa was wild. There was no chance for foreplay. We both wanted it too much for that. Clothes were flung so far that I didn’t find my red bra until two days later.  It must have bounced off the wall and slid behind the planter. After the initial rush, Malone introduced me to the romantic aspects of each room in my apartment.  At one point after a warm bath together, I was on my stomach in bed and he proceeded to drive me crazy by slowly making patterns down my spine with one solitary fingertip.

Each time after the first started out slow and tender. A kiss here, fingers stroking there. Malone was toying with me, bringing me to the edge of excitement now, his lips following his finger.  My whole body felt alive, energized with the reactions to his touch.

He kissed his way up my body, taking his time. A nuzzle here, another tantalizing kiss there.  My skin was singing. My face was flushed, probably as red as my hair.  At about the time I could actually feel my body starting to recover, he zeroed in on my breasts.

Now I can’t say this is true for all women. I can only speak for me. Maybe it’s because of the infrequency of romantic interludes. Or maybe it’s my age. Or maybe the moon was rising.

My breasts are small. I hinted at that before. There are fourteen-year old girls out there with bigger breasts than mine. To clarify the situation, all my bras are padded and yes, the cup size is A. I don’t know if that’s good or bad, but it’s what I’ve got and I’d never consider surgery to pump them up.  All I know is that when Malone starting stroking and kissing my breasts, it’s like there was a direct connection down below. I was immediately wet with anticipation yet again.

“What am I going to do with you,” I whispered my voice little more than a feathery gasp.

“Whatever you would like, I’m open to suggestions.”

*~* 

Bio:

Yes, my name really is Mark Love. I am a Michigan native, who up until recently lived in the Metro Detroit area, where crime and corruption always seem to be at the top of everyone’s news. So there’s always the chance to find something that can trigger a story idea and enough interesting characters to jump start your imagination.

While I have worked in many industries and career paths over the years, one of my passions has always been writing. I was even able to parlay that passion for a while, working as a freelance reporter for a couple of newspapers in the Detroit area. Writing features and hard news helped me hone my talents. But while newspaper work was interesting and paid a few bills, it was a far cry from the fiction writing that I enjoy the most.

I’ve always been drawn to mysteries and thrillers, the kind of stories that have a fast pace, that keep you moving and keep you guessing as to what’s going to happen next. Mix those in with some elements of crime, perhaps a glimpse of the seedier side and you’ve got me. So it’s always been one of my goals to write stories like that.

Blog: http://marklove024.blogspot.com/

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

Interview with Ashleigh Thomas of Rockin’ the Boss

by Sarah | May 6, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing

I’m happy to say that Jamie Salisbury was able to bring along her character,  Ashleigh Thomas of [amazon_link id=”B00CL05MFK” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Rockin’ the Boss[/amazon_link], here today. She’s a spitfire and I already adore her based on this interview…
*~*

1.  Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?

That’s two questions! I came to her (my author) attention because I am a strong willed, don’t take no shit type woman. I may be (in the book) recovering from some personal whammies, but you can’t keep me down for long! I’m not a bitch, but can be when needed. For the most part I’m easy going.  Occupation?  Entrepreneur, business owner.

2.  What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?

That would be Max of course! He is the only man who knows what I’m feeling without my having to tell him – constantly. He doesn’t have to have his ego stroked all the time either. He  knows I’m in charge when it comes to business, adding his suggestions, observations when appropriate. On the personal side it’s 50-50. He instinctively knows when to take charge. What drew me to him? Probably his masculinity. He’s comfortable in it, not afraid to show his softer side and is without a doubt the only man I’ve met who can please me! *wink* The man is incredible!

3.  What’s your greatest fear?

Fear is a weakness

4.  What’s your motto in life?

I’ve never had one.

5.  How do the other characters in your book view you?

Except for one – they all adore me! I’m the boss you always wish you’d had!

6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?

Neither! I detest gossip! Period!

7.  What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?

All of the above, plus they will enjoy the fact that I can get along as equals with anyone, whether it be an employee or a peer.

8.  What was your happiest moment?

It hasn’t happened yet! *wink* Stay tuned for book 2!!

9.  What trait in others do you find most deplorable?

Users! People who hang on to others and use them, then when they suck that person dry they move on to the next “victim”…

10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?

Why purple of course! It’s the color of royalty! *wink*

*~* 

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Blurb

Max Frazier is an international rock music icon. Women throw themselves at his feet, but he has eyes for only one woman…his boss, Ashleigh Thomas.

Ashleigh Thomas is still reeling over the sudden death of her husband, Richard. And all the debt and the trail of destruction he left behind. With Max continuing his contract with ANT Communications, Ashleigh approaches the stunningly handsome entertainer with a business proposition. A deal that will not only bring her agency out of the throws of bankruptcy but will make them both obscene amounts of money. Ashleigh finds herself attracted to this man with his smoldering sensual good looks, a man a much younger than she.

Max is an entertainer’s entertainer. Everything new he tries turns to gold. He is also a man with a past. A past that few are aware of. As he finds himself falling for Ashleigh he realizes his past will catch up with him…sooner or later. His past is what the feds find useful in their pursuit of someone close to Ashleigh.

Excerpt

Then, his voice and demeanor took a more serious tone. “Then there was your marriage to Richard and his sudden death.”

I carefully placed my fork back on the plate and stared at him, shocked that he would bring up Richard. We had been together for close to fifteen years. It had been obvious to everyone except me that he had married me exclusively for the money and connections that my family brought. What he had not expected was Papa insisting on a pre-nuptial agreement.

Richard made the best of the knowledge that he would get nothing if he ever chose to leave. As soon as we married, sex was non-existent between us. He had a steady stream of mistresses and thought little of parading them in front of me. The agency had been his idea, as he had loved the lifestyle and fame it brought. His life had ended as he had lived—hard, fast, and mysterious.

I took a bite of salad and did not react immediately. “I was surprised when you moved to Atlanta.” As I changed the subject, my tone made it clear to Max that Richard was an issue I did not wish to discuss.

“I wanted to be closer to the new team you put together. Manhattan can be so over-rated and expensive. California I love, but it’s even further away. But I do like the climate and the opportunities. Atlanta intrigued me. What made you move here?” The sides of his mouth curled up as though he already knew the answer.

What’s he up to? “Atlanta is special. My mother’s from the area, and I spent a lot of time here growing up.”

“Ah-ha!” he boomed, as he grinned at me. “Now I know why your parent’s named you Ashleigh. It’s so Atlanta, so Southern, so Gone with the Wind.”

“Better than the alternative I suppose.”

“What would that be?”

“My father wanted to name me Coco after Coco Chanel, which might have worked in France, but here I don’t know. At least fun can be had with Ashleigh. You know, the Gone with the Wind melodrama.” I replied as we left the table and headed into the living room. “Would you like coffee, Max, or perhaps something stronger?”

“A brandy sounds great, love,” his accent thicker than earlier.

The change did not go unnoticed as I left to fetch the liquor. I returned with two snifters and handed one to him. He seated himself back on the sofa as I walked around to a chair where I could gaze at him from a safe distance.

“I thought, if you are in agreement, we’d stay at a condo that belongs to a girlfriend of mine. She travels extensively. I’m sure she’d be more than happy to let us use her place.”

“That sounds fine. When do you want to leave?” His deep brown stare roamed over my body, a grin curving his luscious lips.

I shifted in my seat, trying desperately not to notice. “Day after tomorrow suit you?”

*~*

Bio

Jamie Salisbury cannot imagine a time when she did not write. A skill that has served her well throughout her diversified professional career that encompassed public relations in and around the entertainment industry, photography, editing, and special event planning.

An avid reader of history, biographies, and romance it’s only natural that she prefers to write  romances with characters said to be “so authentic they spring forth from the page and shake the reader’s hand.” No stranger to life threatening situations Jamie pulls from life experience when she creates her stories. Such as when her family had to escape Chile when she was a teen because of the unstable political climate.

Finding herself unable to walk great distances  as a result of  several foot surgeries, she started writing once again as a way to pass the time. With the completion of her first novel Perpetual Love she dove head first into the eBook and digital publishing paradigm. She couldn’t be happier with her decision to grab the publishing industry by the shoulders and force it to pay attention to all she has to offer.

Contact Links

Blog: http://www.jamiesalisburyauthor.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.jamiesalisbury.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jamie-Salisbury-Womans-Fiction-Author/202978499741542

Romance Novel Center: http://www.romancenovelcenter.com/jamiesalisbury

Twitter: @JamieRSalisbury

Meet Kalista Bristow from Finding Love Under a Rock

by Sarah | Apr 25, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing

I’m pleased to introduce you to Kalista Bristow from Finding Love Under a Rock by Allee Mae (i.e. Davee Jones). A sweet New Adult story of love amidst some crazy adventures.
*~*

1.  Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?

I wanted to know more about the latest reality show crazes involving swamps, alligators, catfish noodling, Bigfoot, well…you name it. I’m a city girl trying to learn all I can about my new adopted home state of Oklahoma. I knew if anyone would enlighten me and put me in these hair-raising situations, it would be Allee Mae. J I’m a college student in the nursing program at East Central University, studying science and nature just comes naturally—pardon the pun.

2.  What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?

Up to now, the greatest love of my life has been platonic—my best friend, Leandra Lehigh. She and I have grown up together and are close enough to be sisters. We are two peas in a pod, but, she is a little more adventurous than I am. I tend to be cautious, so, we balance each other out to avoid any major catastrophes. So far…But, as Leandra told me just recently, “…Life is sometimes one great big creepy forest, and as much as I love you, we are both getting to the age where each other just isn’t enough.” I think this is where Caleb comes in. (starts to blush)

3.  What’s your greatest fear?

The evil in our world.

4.  What’s your motto in life?

You’ll never know until you try.

5.  How do the other characters in your book view you?

I think they want to protect me, but, they do encourage me to stretch out of my comfort zone. It’s awesome to have such supporting and loving friends. With their help, I just might get there.

6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?

It’s my strict policy to stay away from gossip. I create an exciting life based on positive experiences, not like these cowards on the sideline who only hope to destroy someone to get their kicks.

7.  What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?

My joy in life and all the new experiences Leandra and I are having in Oklahoma with two of the best adventure guides in the world- Caleb and Owen.

8.  What was your happiest moment?

It’s coming up in the next book, wink. (But, Caleb finally kisses me, I just couldn’t keep it a secret!)

9.  What trait in others do you find most deplorable?

Bitterness, because most of the time it’s the person’s own fault they feel angry, yet, they want to blame everyone else.

10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?

I would be orange, because although overlooked very often for something like blue or purple, it normally turns out to be the brightest, most exciting color in the world.

*~*

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Blurb:

Kalista Bristow and Leandra Lehigh moved to Oklahoma not just to attend nursing school, but, to find some adventure. When Leandra reads about the sport of “noodling”, she is literally “hooked’, and reserves top-notch guides, Caleb Chandler and Owen Guthrie, to give them a true southern experience.

Wading through the murky river, Kalista finds herself drawn to the handsome Caleb and his red-dirt good looks. He manages a few shy glances in her direction, intrigued by her tenacity. Could this cute city girl bring him out of his awkward insecurity when it comes to dating? However, thoughts of blossoming love move to the wayside as the girls find more than they bargained for under the surface of that shadowy river. They must rely on Caleb and Owen to keep them safe, all the while beginning to believe the mysterious legends the guys have been telling them are probably all true.

Excerpt:

Kalista’s stomach churned nervously as her eyes darted around. Sunlight danced off the ripples in the water that their movements created. Is that us making those waves, or something just below the surface? “Crap, should I watch where I step?”

“That’s sort of a problem. You can’t watch anywhere you move. So, you just better hope you make the right step.” Caleb said solemnly.

“How far out do we have to go? The water is getting colder the further out we get. Besides, how can we get to the bank to get out if we do get into trouble?” Panic teemed in Kalista’s voice. “I don’t like water I can’t see into.”

“Hey, roomie, calm down. Good grief, we haven’t even started yet.” Leandra finally sounded exasperated with Kalista’s irrational fear. “Would you just enjoy yourself and get over being a baby already? Not everything has to be a swimming pool with pristine water to be safe.”

“Girls, girls, focus. You are both right in your own way. This is more than a simple excursion—it’s time we start paying attention to our surroundings.”

“Okay, so, we need to be one with the fish?” Leandra asked seriously as she peered down toward the water.

Kalista rolled her eyes. “Sheesh Lea, as if you could see anything through this brown tinged river water.” She looked more closely, realizing how intent Leandra appeared. “You really are getting in tune with your aquatic side, aren’t you?”

“We paid for this expedition so you’re darn right I’m getting in touch with my inner Ictalurus punctatus.”

Owen furrowed his brow toward Leandra. “What the heck is an ictaluruhhh…icta…icta-walruses or whatever you just said?”

“Owen, let me apologize for Leandra, leave it to the bookworm to use the scientific name for a channel catfish.” Kalista replied with amusement in her tone.

“You knew what I meant when I said it. What’s that say about you?” Leandra shot back triumphantly.

Caleb interjected into the banter. “Girls, we are actually not looking for Ictalurus punctatus. We are searching for Pylodictis olivari, a flathead catfish.”

*~*

About the Author:

For her sweet side as Allee Mae- with my 13 y/o daughter, we combine to create fictional worlds with something for everyone. Whether exploring urban legends, the eerie paranormal, first loves, sweet romance, scary dreams, we take you away from the everyday.

She has more adult content available as: Davee Jones began a career in the counseling field with her M.Ed. She then diversified and began work for the federal government. The dryness of the day to day assignments fostered the desire for her to do something more creative. Because writing was always a passion, she used every opportunity to journal and create fictional worlds with her words. She began writing short fiction and books, inspired by the events around her.
Now avidly writing, in the little spare time she has, she has several other books in progress. She has books that draw from eroticism, romance, suspense, drama, and sometimes comedy. A few of her books garner only one flame, but, others will secure all five flames in the heat index.
She lives with her husband and children, who inspire her every day to live life to the fullest, with no regrets. She thanks her mother and grandmother for such strong, independent, loving examples of the kind of woman she wants to be. Her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

An Interview (or Something) – Ace, Val & John of Ace’s Wild

by Sarah | Apr 10, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing

Today I’m super thrilled to have someone I considered a good friend, and an excellent critique partner, stopping by.  I’ve known her for a year now and am so excited that her debut novel (which I had the honor of critiquing) is out in the world. Part romance, part urban fantasy, part laugh-your-ass-off funny…Fiona Druce delivers a story with snark and sass.  I asked her to stop by with a few characters for an interview and well…she tried…
*~*

1.  Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?

ACE: I fell on the ground. No joke. There I was, stacking books, and I fell over. I guess the commotion caught her eye or something… especially since she started the book with that very scene. *evil glare at Fiona* I own the bookstore, actually. I sell all kinds of unique books, antique books and books that fall under other adjectives that also end in “–que”.

VAL: *clears his throat and rubs his hand on Ace’s arm* My turn? Well. I came to Fiona’s attention only moments later when Ace fell on me. She had no idea who I was until I’d introduced myself. Fiona was quite excited. Ace? Not as much. *sighs* As for occupation, I’m a King.

JOHN:  *shoulders his way past Val to stand in the front* I knocked Thane to the ground. And Irving. And Val. *he flexes, a satisfied smile curling up the corners of his lips* I’m sure my little girl spoke of me, but Fiona didn’t really notice me until I’d hit people. Which is fine. *he glares at Val* I have a lot more where that came from, too.

VAL: *sighs* Must we, John?

JOHN: *narrows his eyes, a low grumble in in his chest*

ACE: *whines* Really? Right now? If ya’ll don’t stop, I’m telling Mama. *stands akimbo*

2.  What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?

ACE: *whacks Val on the forearm* This guy because he’s so cute when he’s ready to impale someone with his thumb-sized dragon teeth. And I would have to say it was gravity that drew me to him. I did fall on him, after all. Twice–No… it might have been three times… *purses her lips and squeezes an eye shut, trying to remember*

VAL: *says nothing, still smiling at John*

JOHN: *says nothing, still glaring at Val*

ACE: *nudges Val* Psst. That was your cue to earn brownie points.

VAL: *continues to glare at John*

ACE: *harumphs and slams her arms across her chest to sulk*

3.  What’s your greatest fear?

ACE: The next few months…

VAL: *shoots a look of indignant disbelief at Ace*

JOHN: *mumbles something that includes words like acreage and shotgun*

4.  What’s your motto in life?

ACE: F–

VAL: *smirks at John* A man is only as good as his virility.

JOHN: *sputters* *slams his fist into Val’s jaw*

ACE: *her shoulders sink and she stares at the interviewer* Do you see what I have to put up with?

*Val chuckles at John, who throws another punch. Val dodges it with a snakelike jerk of his head.*

5.  How do the other characters in your book view you?

ACE: Usually from above. I’m pretty short.

VAL & JOHN: *eye each other, John with painful intent, and Val with a self-satisfied grin.*

6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?

ACE: I’m a Southern girl. So… Yes, I suppose. All of the above.

VAL & JOHN: *silent*

7.  What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?

ACE: We’re a…er…motley crew of…er…

VAL: *pinches Ace’s backend *

JOHN: “Get your hands off my baby girl!”

ACE: *yelps* “Sorry, what was I saying…?”

8.  What was your happiest moment?

ACE: *Stands in front of them, ignoring the entire situation* “Can I answer that another time, perhaps? You know… when… er… certain people aren’t present?”

FIONA: “You mean your dad?”

ACE: *shakes her head covertly and whispers* “Val.”

FIONA: Er…

VAL: *his brow shoots up, the only sign of his indignant glower*

JOHN: *leans back and lets out a howl of laughter*

9.  What trait in others do you find most deplorable?

ACE: Pr–

JOHN: Being that guy. *punches at Val*

VAL: *dodges the punch* “Come, now…can’t we just get along?”

FIONA: *winces at the antics of the men* Sorry, Ace.

ACE: *glowers at Fiona but says nothing, then glares at Val* “Quit antagonizing my father! I expected better of you!”

VAL: “Love, it’s just a game…”

ACE: *snorts* “A game where the winner gets to sleep on the couch.” *she harumphs and then spins around to leave, throwing a last comment over her shoulder*. “As does the loser.”

JOHN: *turns to Val* “See what you did!”

VAL: *rolls his eyes* “Ace…” *follows her out*

JOHN: *follows them out*

FIONA: …Sooo… *clears her throat and looks around. Nope. She’s all by herself* Er…I like blue. *grimaces, but it might be an attempt at a smile*

*~*~*~*

| [amazon_link id=”B00C520WGS” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | Barnes & Noble | ARe | Publisher |

BLURB:

More snarky-than-sweet Southern girl Acacia “Ace” Stanning has never been anyone’s ideal anything. Not for a lack of trying, of course.

Dark, mysterious, and utterly frustrating hottie Val Draig has always been quite the opposite. Without even an attempt at trying. Except that whole being-a-dragon bit. And the violent bloody war bit. And the fact that simply by knowing him, Ace is now drawn kicking and screaming into a secret battle between two warring dragon factions.

Then Val told her she was his ideal everything.

Now, because he loves her, a whole group of dragons want her dead. And those are the good guys.

The bad guys want both Ace and Val’s entire clan wiped from existence. To stop the bloodshed, she and Val will unravel a hidden past only to discover a future together is the key to their survival.

Ace may not be ideal, but who she is may just be wild enough to work.

Fiona Druce and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest with two daughters and a large neurotic dog. Her interests are singing, triathlons, molecular biology, qualitative chemistry, mechanical and aerospace engineering, and writing fiction. She’s positive there is somehow a connection in all that but she hasn’t found it, yet. Suggestions welcome.

| Website | Facebook | Twitter |

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Vidal’s Honor by Sherry Gloag

by Sarah | Apr 4, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing

I’m always happy when authors pay a return visit to tout another of their books.  Today is no exception as Sherry Gloag stops by to interview the Hero and Heroine of her novel Vidal’s Honor. Please give them a warm welcome today.
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Author to heroine: What drove you to tell your story?

Honor, Lady Beaumont: Because when a woman followed the drum in 1812 most people assumed the worst about her morals. And, *she sighs* while that aspect can’t be denied. I wanted to show it didn’t apply to all women.

Author to hero: What would you like to say to the people who accused you of being glad when your best friend died and it gave you another chance to woo his widow?

Charles Vidal: At first I don’t think it penetrated my grief at losing someone who meant the world to me. When Lord Dundass ordered me to bring her home to England I didn’t want to go and at the same time I couldn’t wait to see her again.

Author to heroine: How did you feel when you realised what your brother-in-law was plotting?

Honor, Lady Beaumont: Bewildered, disbelief, followed by anger and betrayal and then the fear when I realised the full implications of his intent.

Author to hero: And you, how did you feel when you were told of the plot?

Charles Vidal: *leans forward, fists on knees* I swear if I hadn’t had to leave for Gibraltar immediately I would have hunted the scoundrel down and dispatched him.

Author to heroine: Did you ever doubt you would survive your journey across the Pyrenees?

Honor: *shudders, inhales a deep breath and nods* On more than one occasion. Especially when and just after the land slip.

Author to hero: Did you know what Lord Dundass planned for you both at Lord Kringle’s Ball

Charles Vidal: *Relaxes and grins* Not at all. But I loved the way he publically routed the guilty parties and cleared Honor’s name. *He clasps Honor’s hand and rises.* It’s been good to see you again, but Honor needs her rest, *Charles shares a secret smile with Honor then extends an arm to help Honor to her feet.*

Author to both: before you leave, will you tell me whether you are still in contact with your rescuers and guides, Juan and Consuela?

*Honor leans into Charles as he wraps his arm around her waist.* We are and always will be. It grieves me and Consuela that Juan chose return to Spain. But we all pray for his safe return.

Author: My Lord, do you feel the same?

Charles Vidal: While I understand Honor and Consuela’s feelings, I also understand that Juan has unfinished business; and it is a matter of family honour and national integrity that has taken him back to his homeland. I, too, pray for his safe and speedy return.

Author: Thank you both for taking time out of your busy schedules to talk with me today. May I offer my congratulations and best wishes for the future?

*She sighs as she watches her heroine and hero leave, knowing they’ve already forgotten her existence.*

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BLURB:

Which will Honor lose first? Her head or her heart?

When plunged into a world of spies, agents and espionage during the Peninsula wars, Honor, Lady Beaumont, flees for her life when the French capture her husband at Salamanca, and relies on his batman to arrange her safe passage back to England.

Viscount Charles Vidal is ordered by Robert Dumas, the First Lord of the Admiralty, to travel to Spain and escort the only woman he’s ever loved, Lord Devlin Beaumont’s widow back home before the French discover her whereabouts.

Their journey is fraught by danger, least of all knowing whether they are surrounded by friends or foe. Will they survive long enough to explore the possibility of a future together or will whispers of treason be enough to see Honor dispatched to Tyburn first?

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Excerpt:

While Vidal joked with his cousin, the viscount scanned the room. The smell of fine wine, whiskey and cigar smoke blended into a rich aroma that was as much a part of Whites as the card games, the background chatter, and outbreaks of lewd laughter from the younger members of the club.
One member in particular interested Vidal tonight, and he watched Robert Dundas, second Viscount Melville, and First Lord of the Admiralty, take leave of his friends and head in his direction.

He wondered why the man spent the best part of the night watching his every move, and paused in the act of fobbing his snuff box while he waited for the viscount to join him.

“Take a walk with me?” Although couched as a question, Vidal noted the quiet steel of command in the other man’s voice. Dundas laid a hand on his arm; a companionable gesture for anyone interested enough to observe the two men leaving the club together. “I believe I live not far beyond your own house. I’d appreciate your company, and this is not the place for such a discussion. ”

With an indolent twist of the wrist Vidal returned the modish lacquered box, unopened, to his pocket and nodded agreement. A man’s club was no setting for private conversation, and it was plain the man wanted to talk about something away from flapping ears.

Together they strolled across the room stopping to take leave of several mutual friends.

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Multi-published author, Sherry Gloag is a transplanted Scot now living in the beautiful coastal countryside of Norfolk, England.  She considers the surrounding countryside as extension of her own garden, to which she escapes when she needs “thinking time” and solitude to work out the plots for her next novel.  While out walking she enjoys talking to her characters, as long as there are no other walkers close by.

Apart from writing, Sherry enjoys gardening, walking, reading and cheerfully admits her books tend to take over most of the shelf and floor space in her workroom-cum-office.  She also finds crystal craft work therapeutic.