by Sarah | May 15, 2013 | Book Spotlight, Guest Authors, Writing
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Blurb
In the Badlands of the Dakota Territory, a war is raging between good and evil, between angels and Satan’s three sons…
Earth Angel—Elizabeth Bonner’s plans for her wedding dissolve when she
discovers her fiancé in bed with her mother. To escape the pain, she flees to the rowdy mining town of Deadwood Gulch to claim a recently inherited gold mine. Only one person stands between her and hell—Gabriel King.
Dark Angel—Saloon and brothel owner, Gabriel, is a man feared by most, but he meets his match with Elizabeth. When her father dies in his arms with the request for him to look after his only child, Gabriel is determined to protect Elizabeth at all costs. 1876, Dakota Territory is no place for a Southern lady whose innocence is tempting as sin. Toss in a couple of trouble-making cherubs, and the Old West will never be the same.
Elizabeth and Gabriel—more than one war is brewing in the Black Hills…
Excerpt
But the moment Elizabeth opened the door and stepped inside―at exactly eleven―in that instant, Gabe realized he was wrong in his opinion of the woman. He literally jerked at the sight of her. His breath caught in his throat. His heart thundered in his ears. The compulsion to jump up and capture her, take her far away from the leeches in the office was almost overpowering in its intensity.
He was half-way out of the chair before he caught himself and settled back on the rich leather cushion. She wasn’t his―yet. But he’d well rectify that—soon. Gabe tightened his lips. The flare of impotent anger he already felt shot up three notches as Lawyer Ninon plastered a welcoming, duplicitous smile on his face for the new arrival. What hypocrisy! The sycophantic bastard. So smug. So–so apple polishing innocence! Damn, he hated unscrupulous worms like this Ninon lawyer.
From the first moment Gabe met the three, he hadn’t much cared for any one of them, now he understood why. He suddenly realized that instead of rats, he was in a room with oily sharks. Distaste curdled his insides, but he could hardly grab Elizabeth and steal her away, not out from under the nose of her fiancé and mother, or her lawyer.
A little voice niggled at his mind asking, Why not?
He cut his eyes toward the woman who’d just walked in. If ever there was a heavenly being, she was it. Yep, the fiancé was not only a cheating prick, but he was a stupid, cheating prick. How could good old Nicholas tussle between the sheets with Charity when he had this woman? What a dumbass swine.
Heavenly being? God above, he did have the weirdest thoughts sometimes, but for sure, Elizabeth didn’t look a thing like her mother, and thank God, she didn’t look like homely old Pete, rest his soul.
Her hair lay gathered around her face in loose ringlets, shiny as the gold nuggets Pete had mined. Sprigs of honey-gold curls swirled softly around her ears and temples. Thick, sooty lashes surrounded grape-green eyes that looked right through a man’s soul―and did.
Her furious gaze met his, held, clashed, and strayed to her mother and fiancé. She drew a deep breath as if to soothe a savage beast, but her cheeks looked flushed and he thought it had more to do with temper than the humid heat of a Southern spring.
Gabe raked his gaze over her, but hurried back to her tempting lips. Elizabeth’s mouth needed a man’s kisses. A plush bottom lip hinted at sultry softness. Her bow-shaped upper lip pulled a man’s gaze to it immediately and teased his imagination. Her mouth looked as decadent as the painting of the naked woman hanging above his bar in the Placer.
Author Bio
Tabitha Shay is the author of paranormal romances, Witch’s Brew, Witch’s Heart, Witch‘s Moon, Witch’s Magic, and Witch’s Fire.
A member of the Oklahoma Writer’s Federation, Inc., she has served as both a category chair and judge. Her books have been nominated for several awards, including the prestigious P.E.A.R.L. Award for Witch’s Magic and Witch’s Moon, which was also nominated for Best All Around Paranormal in 2008. Witch’s Fire won Runner Up for Best Paranormal Book of 2010 at LRC.
Ms. Shay is also the author of the contemporary western romances, Montana Men Series, In the Arms of Danger, No Holds Barred, Too Hot to Handle/Too Close to the Fire, and Wild, under the pseudonym, Jaydyn Chelcee.
Website: http://tabithashay.blogspot.com
by Sarah | May 13, 2013 | Book Spotlight, Guest Authors, Writing
| [amazon_link id=”1894936833″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | B&N |
Blurb
Wayne and Nancy grow up on opposite sides of the country, each certain they must have love better than what others will settle for. Something stronger, something richer, something worth searching for. During the turbulent nineteen-sixties, they meet while he is attending blue-collar Drexel, and she is at neighboring, Ivy League Penn. Although irresistibly drawn to each other, they must overcome obstacles posed by the class and social differences separating them, as well as opposition from both families, and later, a twist of fate that will be the cruelest test of all. Can they reach the emotional heights they seek? Can they overcome time’s downward pulling inertia? Coinage of Commitment is dedicated to all who ever paused and wondered about the altitude love might soar to.
Excerpt
Setup: Late Friday night, 1968, at Philadelphia’s 30th St. Subway Station. Wayne is looking from the trolley station, where he stands, to the adjacent subway train (El) platform.
As he watched absently, the girl from Sullivan’s came down the El station steps opposite him. She paused at the foot of the stairs, getting her bearings. Although adequate lighting bathed the platform, most riders took stock of others in the vicinity for safety’s sake. It was a natural precaution, instinctive for most, and especially important this late at night. She saw him, signaled recognition by a parting of her lips that was not quite a smile, then she lowered her gaze, turned, and strolled slowly out of sight to the other side of the stairway.
Seeing her again pricked him with an off-kilter joy, uplifting and refreshing, partly because she recognized and acknowledged him, but also because she seemed so buoyantly out of place down here, her bright beauty undefeated by the dank-smelling gloom of the subway. He smiled, turned away, and sauntered to the south side of the trolley platform. The minutes dragged, but no trolley car arrived. He began mentally composing a theme paper for his International Politics course, the only non-technical one he had that semester. Ideas came to him, prancing, and he thought of getting a notebook from his bag.
“Police! Help! Help me!” A woman’s screaming and it came from the El platform.
Thinking frantically of the girl, he ran to the north edge of the platform and jumped the foot or so that got him down onto the trolley tracks. A steel grate fence separated the two transit systems, but it had seen better days. A section was ajar, just ten feet to his left, and he swung it open enough to squeeze through.
Now things got difficult. The El platform was too high and far to jump to. The train tracks gleamed below him, the electrified rail closest, then the two steel tracks. He saw only one way to get there and didn’t slow down to analyze the risk. He threw his bag onto the opposite platform, then leaped forward, over the electrified rail, and down into the square trench that ran a foot and a half below and between the steel tracks. The platform loomed just above him, and the smell of ozone was stronger this close to the electrified rail—the one he must not fall back against. With his momentum still carrying forward from the jump, he kept moving, aware his footing and balance must be perfect. He reached up and grabbed the El platform edge, stepped up on the rail before him, then used his grip on the edge to lever himself up and onto the platform, landing on his right shoulder and side. Feeling no pain, he got to his feet and sprinted west down the platform toward the woman’s screams.
As he ran, he recalled what he had seen: the girl from Sullivan’s, a nondescript man, and three black youths: teens with their heads wrapped in dark bandannas, signifying…he knew not what. They were what fueled his urgency. Where was she? The commotion was still ahead of him.
He ran at top speed past the central vending area and spotted figures near the far steps. He could see her blond mane, somewhat disheveled now, and she stood with her arm across a shorter girl’s shoulder. The nondescript man ran up and joined them.
“He took my purse,” the other girl wailed. “I can’t believe I was so careless to let him get my purse that easily.”
“Oh, I’m sorry,” the blond girl said, her arm still across the smaller girl’s shoulder in comfort.
“All my ID. A credit card. And I just got my paycheck cashed today. How stupid can you get?”
Another woman came down the steps and joined the group. As Wayne approached and slowed, a balding, thirtyish-looking man passed him from behind, joined the scene, said he had heard the commotion from above, and that a companion had gone to the toll booths to get help. Then two of the black youths he had seen earlier ran up from the west.
“He high-tailed it onto the tracks,” said the shorter of the youths. “He’s got choice of Thirty-third Street trolley or Thirty-fourth Street El station, so it looks like we kiss that one good-bye. You know what I’m saying? The Fuzz’l never collar that dude now.”
As though on cue, a police officer, complete with German Shepherd, came down the steps and assumed authority. The third black youth also joined the crowd. Wayne held back, not seeing what he could contribute by his late arrival. The blond girl had seen his running approach. Or had she? Her gaze had flicked briefly in his direction, then back to her charge. The tension eased with collective relief, and the officer started questioning the stricken girl, unpacking a notebook as he spoke.
Wayne thought of how the blond girl continued to be too distracted to notice him, and he felt bemused by the irony of his situation. He had arrived about 7.2 seconds too late to be of any use, even to the wrong damsel in distress.
His breathing slowed. Still not seeing anything he could contribute, he turned and walked slowly in the direction he had come. He needed to retrieve his bag from where he had tossed it onto the platform. When he got there, he picked up the bag and looked out over the gleaming tracks toward the trolley station. No way, he thought, realizing with a shiver the danger he had risked. The price of another transit token wasn’t nearly worth the peril. And then, as though to underscore the irony, his trolley arrived and then quickly departed. Oh well, might as well climb the stairs to the mid-level pay booths so he could get back down to the trolley station. He took his sweet time since he probably had at least a twenty-minute wait.
He approached the corner of the stairway, trying to remember whether the trolleys discontinued service during the wee hours. Suddenly the blond girl stood in front of him, her eyes wide, her expression anxious.
“It just dawned on me,” she said. “How did you get over here?”
Author Bio
Rob Costelloe’s contemporary love stories explore the height that love can reach. These are characters certain they must have love better than what others will settle for. Something richer, something higher, something worth holding out for. And something that will last through time. These aspirations invariably give plot directions a unique twist. Rob designs his own covers, and they strive to give an illustration of the plot tension within. Rob and his wife live near Houston, Texas.
Website: rcostelloe.com
by Sarah | May 9, 2013 | Guest Authors, Writing
I’m excited to have Lacie Nation stop by today to tell us a little about herself. She’s been here once or twice before, and with her new release coming up, I’m glad she hopped on over again. 🙂
*~*
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I was born and raised in GA and while I’ve lived in other states such as Kansas City, Jacksonville FL, and a couple other places, I have always been and always will be a country girl. I like to wear pretty clothes, but I don’t mind getting dirty either.
2. Are you a pantser or a plotter?
Pantser for sure. I have never plotted a book out. I may know a general direction I want the story to go, but for the most part I just let the characters do their thing, or as we say in the south, their thang!
3. Can you tell us about the challenges you faced getting your first book published?
Ahh the first book blues…lol. I wrote a story called So Beautifully Broken. I went through so many ups and downs while trying to get it published. I finally found Secret Cravings and throughout the entire process of editing, editing, and oh yes, more editing, the staff was there for me through the whole thing. I am so thankful for they gave me a shot.
4. What was your favorite chapter to write and why?
Honestly, my favorite part of Gravity Beach to write was the prologue. I was able to really get into the emotions of the heroine. I guess a little of that was because I was a hot mess after writing the first book in this series, Courageous Dare.
5. Were all of your characters easy to write, or did some of them give you trouble? Any particular character you didn’t like at all?
Surprisingly, all the characters in this book were easy to write. I can’t really say I didn’t like any one particular character. Even the villain showed emotional depth…eventually.
6. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Keep trying, keep writing, and never EVER let anyone tell you, you can’t do what you love.
7. In researching your book what did you learn that surprised you? Or, alternatively, what thing did you research that you never thought you would (and considered deleting from your browsing history)?
There wasn’t really any research to be done for this book. In Courageous Dare though I had to research certain aspects of what happens when a solider…on second thought, I won’t give anything away about the first book. *insert evil laugh*
8. Narrow down your novel. Why must we read it? (besides the obvious, it’s awesome answer…because of course it is!)
That’s a really touch one! I’m a firm believer that we can’t please everyone, so that being said I will let readers make that decision for themselves. I will say that if you like a story about second chances at love and healing from a tragedy, then this might just be the book for you.
9. Do you have any unique talents or hobbies?
I like to make book covers. Other than that, I’m pretty much your down home southern lady.
10. Which character speaks the loudest to you?
Jolie, the heroine. She is a tough chick who has been through hell and still came out on top.
11. Do you have another book coming out soon?
Not yet, but the plot bunnies are a screaming!
12. (For series authors) How many books can we expect to see in your series? Is the number tentative or set?
There are two, but there just might be a third from the ever hilarious Jamie. She’s a really fun character, but there may be darker days to come for her. The number is tentative. There are three friends so it would make sense for all three of them to get their own story.
*~*~*~*
Blurb:
Jolie Baker had it all, amazing friends, a college degree, and a man she planned to spend the rest of her life with. When her love is killed in action, Jolie has to learn to live again. Three years after Ethan’s death, she moves to Gravity Beach to start a new life. At her new teaching job, one of her students is surprised when her father returns home from war. Jolie never imagined how important the returning solider and his daughter would become.
David Stokes wants nothing more than to raise his daughter, Madison, and give her the best life he can. Because Madison’s mother abandoned them, David is all she has. When he meets his little girl’s teacher on the beach, he is surprised by how much he wants to know her. David sees the pain in Jolie’s eyes, but will his love be enough to ease her tattered soul?
Excerpt:
Jolie wanted to say something profound to him. She wanted to tell him how much she loved him. How important he was to her very being. But, when she pressed her hand against his chest every single word left her brain. There was not a single trace of his normal warmth. His chest, normally firm, because he was a muscular man, now was hard to the touch and she could feel the coldness radiating through the thick layers of his uniform. Jolie jerked her hand away and stumbled back. She couldn’t catch her breath. Her heart beat so fast it was painful. She needed air, so she rushed back through the mourning people and crashed through the front doors of the funeral home. The fingers she’s pressed to his chest still felt cold and the chill seemed to be spreading throughout her entire body. Jolie wanted her love back. She wanted her life back. She wanted Ethan.
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
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*
*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00CL05MFK” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | SCP | B&N | ARe |
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
by Sarah | May 2, 2013 | Author Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
I’m happy to welcome fellow SCP Author, Tamara Monteau by today.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I was born and raised in Washington State, joined the Air Force and met my husband of now 31+ years. We now live in Middle Georgia, have four adult children and one delightful granddaughter.
I became interested in the paranormal when I was a child. My sister and I rushed home from the bus every day to get our Dark Shadows fix before doing our homework. We spent hours play-acting our favorite scenes. In 1992, in the aftermath of the ill-fated Dark Shadows revival, I began imagining ways I could help my own vampire find peace. One night, while my husband and I sat in front of the boob tube, I picked up pen and paper, and started to write. I’ve been hooked ever since.
2. Can you tell us about the challenges you faced getting your first book published?
After I finished writing Dark Destiny in 2003, I registered it with the Library of Congress and began searching for a literary agency to handle the work. Most of the ones I contacted were predatory, asking for money up front for questionable services. I lost heart, and played with the text for the next five years, enhancing the story and defining secondary characters.
My best friend contacted Author House for me, and after speaking with a representative for almost an hour, I decided to give self-publishing a try. By then, my chosen title had been snapped up by another paranormal, vampire, author, so I decided on Twilight Destiny after a search for that title revealed no vampire genre conflicts.
I published two other novels through Author House, and was preparing to do the same with my fourth when I came upon Secret Cravings Publishing in April of 2011. I took a chance and emailed the publisher, and was shocked at her acceptance. I then asked her to consider my backlist, and two weeks later, Haven’s Realm was born!
My story is one of patience, I suppose. I never really pursued traditional publishing. It all seemed to just fall into place, with the admitted help of a few valued friends. It did seem strange to me that the very first publishing house I should ever contact accepted my work, when it took Stephen King forty attempts to find a home for Carrie (at least that’s what I’ve come to understand). I never suffered the trauma of a rejection letter, and although I’ve received criticism for my choice of title for book one, so far I’ve received some pretty awesome reviews on the entire series.
3. What was your favorite chapter to write and why?
I would have to say Chapter 15 of Haven’s King. In it, Jason introduces Mirissa to the Council of Elders for the first time. The way the scene unfolded established the ceremony by which all Council mates are greeted, and when it played out, I was so surprised and excited I did a happy dance on the back porch for half an hour. (I’m sure the neighbors thought I was crazy.)
4. Were all of your characters easy to write, or did some of them give you trouble? Any particular character you didn’t like at all?
All of my characters are endearing friends. Oh, I have my villains, but they don’t usually hang around too long.
I think the hardest character I’ve ever written was Devon, the older vampire from medieval England who was slain in the middle of my first book. In book four, I stepped back to the beginning of my timeline, and had to create Devon for my readership. I knew I needed a character who would be perceived as beloved, and it broke my heart when I wrote his last scene before a hunter’s arrow took him down. Readers learn more of his history as the events within Secrets & Promises unfolds and the Council makes Chari aware of the consequences of her actions against them.
5. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Never give up your dream. Work at it, read about it, tell your friends about it, and keep it active in your mind and spirit. Never write when writing feels forced. You’ll never be happy with the outcome. Instead, open your heart to the possible and let the voices within you flourish. When you have before you a finished product you couldn’t possibly improve upon, you’ll know you’re ready to take the next step and become an aspiring “published” writer.
6. In researching your book what did you learn that surprised you? Or, alternatively, what thing did you research that you never thought you would (and considered deleting from your browsing history)?
I spent a lot of time researching for Secrets & Promises. I need, for a start, a doctor of genetics, and the bulk of my knowledge stemmed from watching all the crime shows on TV. While I kept my explanations as simple as I could, I learned interesting aspects I was able to modify to cross science with magic. Because I promised readers the history and foundation of the Community and its members, I spent more than half my research time investigating the individual pasts and more fully developing members that have been in existence from the beginning. In addition, the past lives of my primary female character presented me with an even greater historical challenge as I followed Vincent’s tragic existence. I came away with a much greater appreciation for early history and how various events throughout time intertwined to bring us the world we now know.
7. Narrow down your novel. Why must we read it? (besides the obvious, it’s awesome answer…because of course it is!)
Well, sure it is. Secrets & Promises is my most in-depth work yet. Two different romances intertwine amidst suspense and mystery that weaves together at the end with surprising results. This is my most tragic tale, and should keep readers turning pages and hungering for more. In fact, one among the SCP staff left me a comment that, after reading this fifth story, she’ll be setting aside personal time to read my backlist. I can think of no greater praise for a book even my husband, who is my worst critic, declared “well written”.
8. Do you have any unique talents or hobbies? Talents? Uninque?
I am extremely creative, and dabble in many kinds of art, from painting and ceramics to writing and graphic arts. I can also sing and play (modestly) the guitar and piano. My greatest talent is in my imagination, and my greatest work and satisfaction found in the pages of Haven’s Realm.
9. Which character speaks the loudest to you?
I fell most deeply in love with Ronan (Dragon Lord), but I’ve always had sympathy for Vincent. Jason (Haven’s King) was patterned after my own husband’s quirky humor and cockeyed optimism. Joshua and Catherine (Twilight Destiny) reflect the quieter, more thoughtful aspects of myself. I guess they’re all special to me in one way or another. How does one choose a favorite from amongst one’s children?
10. Do you have another book coming out soon?
I have no idea where Haven’s Realm will take me. Book six is now half written, and I have seeds of ideas sprouting now that I’ve succeeded in expanding the scope of the Community (won’t tell you how – read the book). I can only promise it will not end soon.
*~*~*~*
| Amazon | SCP | B&N | ARe |
BLURB
When her best friend is taken by a vampire, Dr. Charlotte Vinetti shifts her genetic research focus in hopes of finding a cure. Five years later, she’s no closer to her goal, and long-troubled by the one vampire she’d killed who was different from the rest. Her worst nightmares become terrifying reality when she’s captured and realizes her captors are intelligent, sentient beings rather than the mindless creatures who continued to invade her home.
Vincent was nearing the end of his strength. Haven’s trials over the past five years had overtaxed his resources, but he knew with dread his problems were only beginning when the hunter the Community had long sought was the reincarnation of his deepest love. Forced by ancient promises to stand against the Bargain, his only hope lies in ending their gypsy curse and winning her love, for only then can he earn the Council’s forgiveness.
*~*
Excerpt:
“This will further relax you.” He motioned her to one of the chairs, and she sat obediently before taking a sip. Apricot brandy–her favorite. She took careful sips of the warming liquid while watching him with nervous apprehension. A thousand questions crowded her mind, none of them coherent enough to vocalize, so she waited for him to break the silence. When he did, his words surprised her.
“This situation is, in a way, my doing, and for that I offer you my most remorseful apology. If I’d had the courage to seek you out the moment I sensed you near, none of this would’ve occurred. Devon might still be alive. For my reluctance, I am to blame.”
She stared at him in open shock. He’d sensed her? Before she killed their friend? But that was almost five years ago! “I don’t understand.”
“I don’t expect you to. Not yet.” He took a sip from his crystal tumbler, the contents thick and red. She closed her eyes for a moment to quell the bile rising in her throat.
“There is much to be said between us, and much to resolve, both with you and me, and between us and the Council. Right now we don’t have time to address even a tenth of the questions I hear in your mind. We meet with them soon. You must help me devise a defense.”
Her thoughts raced to catch up. There was, indeed, much to resolve, but how can she answer for the crimes she committed against them? The reality that he’d cast his lot in with hers struck home. She swallowed dryly and asked, “We meet with the Council?”
He took another swallow from his glass and sat in the other chair. She nervously sipped at her own. “All right. I’ll attempt to explain. Be silent and listen closely.” She nodded her understanding. “The information I’m about to share would not come to you for at least a month or two. I’m afraid I’ll need to break a few rules if I mean to keep us both alive.”
He took a long pull from the tumbler, draining its contents, set it on the table and leveled his gaze at her without expression. “I’m a member of the Council of Elders, a group of seven advisors who serve our king. By standing in your defense, I’ve turned my back on my brethren. I stand to lose not only my position in a Community I helped create, but also my right to the Bargain. You will come to know of these matters in time, but for now understand that such a loss would destroy me.”
He paused to allow her silent nod. “In a few minutes, we’ll stand together before my friends, for in siding with you and accepting the Reckoning, I share your guilt. When Mirissa, my queen, suggested it and the Council agreed, our fates became one. Without it, you’d have stood judgment alone. Now it stands as our only means of survival. I must understand your motives if I’m to justify your actions. If I can’t make them hear us, our lives will end tonight.”
*~*
Where to find Tamara:
Website: http://www.Havens-Realm.com
Blogsite: http://havensrealm.wordpress.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TamaraMonteau
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TamaraMonteauAuthor
