Friday, December 6, 2013

NEW RELEASE!



INTERVIEW WITH Amy Jarecki



Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Before college, I was a showgirl. I toured—singing and dancing my way around the world in a review called Follies on Broadway. Several years later, I dreamed up the plot for VIRTUE after I took a cruise to Belize...

How cool would it be to write a romantic suspense about a dancer who falls in love with a hot Belizean man and ends up in more trouble than Indiana Jones?



Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?


Virtue is a romantic suspense. My last six manuscripts have been Scottish historical romances, but they all have a strong element of suspense.



What is your writing routine like?

I’m a plotter. I roll out of bed every morning, review what I wrote the day before, look at my outline and plot the details of my next scene.



Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

I’m a member of the Celtic Hearts chapter of the Romance Writers of America. I’ve formed a number of friendships by being a member, but I like the online classes that are offered in the CHRWA as well as those offered by other RWA chapters.



What’s next for you?

The next two books under contract are Rescued by the Celtic Warrior (August 2014) and Celtic Maid (Dec. 2014).



BOOK BLURB

Sheltered, raised in rural Utah, Zoe Marshall has never heard of the Mayan Prophecy of the Golden Goddess—but she’s about to.

At the moment she just landed her dream job, dancing on a cruise ship where she meets Belizean Gabriel AhKin. The sizzling bartender stirs her passion.

When the ship docks in Belize, Zoe disappears—spirited into the bowels of a Mayan cult led by a reclusive fanatic. After the madman sees her, he divines Zoe is the Golden Goddess. She is “the one” to fulfill the prophecy. Now Gabriel’s driving obsession is to rescue the woman who’s captured his heart.



A little bit about the author

Amy has won multiple writing awards and lives in Utah with her husband and two Chihuahuas. For fun, she hikes, bikes and plays a mean game of golf. Born in northern California, Amy holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland.



Excerpt

The first time the hero sees the heroine:

Long blond hair fluttered with the breeze, legs that wouldn’t stop, and a body so well proportioned, he’d only seen the likes in swimsuit editions of Sports Illustrated.

She looked his way and his breath caught. He quickly glanced down, busying himself with the glasses. Gabriel’s heart thundered in his ears as she approached.

“Hi,” she said, her American accent friendly, not bitchy like other incredibly beautiful tourists he’d encountered. “You think I could get a Diet Coke?”

Gabriel looked up. She smiled, white teeth, eyes that reflected the sea, flawless skin. “Ah. Sure.” He reached for a glass, one of the fancy plastic tumblers. He scooped in some ice and grabbed a toothpick umbrella, garnishing it with a lime and a red maraschino cherry. Holding up her special drink, he grinned. “Why diet?”

She lowered her extraordinarily long lashes. “I’m a dancer—always watching my figure, you know.”

“You’re a dancer on the ship?”

She took a sip. “Uh huh. Arrived last night.” When she leaned in, he caught a delicious fragrance like rain falling on orange blossoms. “I’m pretending I’m lost and taking a little self-guided tour on my way to the theater. I thought I’d have a look around before spending who knows how many hours tied to the stage.”

“Off to rehearse, huh?”

“Yep. Had to learn two shows in a week.” She pointed to her white flip-flops. “I’m wearing these to air out the blisters on my toes.”

He glanced down, but only made it as far as her well-muscled, slender thighs. Perfection. “Sounds painful.”

“It’ll be all right.” She leaned closer with the most adorable smile he’d ever seen in his life. “Know what?”

Gabriel hoped drool wasn’t draining out the corner of his mouth. “What?”

“The lead dancer is leaving the show after this tour, and I’ve been picked for the fan dance.”

God in heaven, why did that not surprise him? He’d choose her for any spotlight dance. He’d pick her just to stand center stage for hours on end. You want to drape those pegs across my bar so I can stare at them all day? Holy mother, she could do anything she wanted.





How can my readers buy your book?

You can find more information about me and my book, Virtue, by

visiting my website, www.amyjarecki.com or my blog, http://amyjarecki.blogspot.com



A few quickies if you don’t mind!

1) Favorite board game? Monopoly

2) Pepsi or Coke? Pepsi

3) Mountains or Beach? Beach

4) Denim or Leather? Denim

5) What’s your favorite thing about Christmas? Presents

6) What’s your favorite romantic thing your husband has done for you? Oh gosh, my husband’s the king of romantic. Hmm. He often leaves me love notes on my pillow. I think I like those the best.

7) What’s your favorite time of day? Morning.

8) What’s your favorite color? Pink.

9) What’s your favorite kind of chewing gum? Spearmint, Cinnamon, or Fruity? Wintergreen—as long as it’s sugarless.



Thanks for having me on your blog, Sarah, and good luck to you and all the authors out there. Write on!



Saturday, November 16, 2013

IT'S ARRIVED!



ll I Want For Christmas is a Soul Mate . . .

This year’s delightful collection of Christmas short stories features a multitude of romantic genres all with one common theme: during the holiday season, nothing’s better than spending it with the one you love.

Twenty talented Soul Mate authors have put together an anthology that’s sure to please any reader who enjoys their romance with a splash of Christmas cheer:
A time-traveling Highlander brings comfort and joy to a young woman grieving her lost family . . .
Best friends, both widowed, suddenly see each other through new eyes during a snowed-in Christmas Eve;
A royal prince and a commoner fall in love despite their differences and a handful of untruths, thanks to a wreath that grants wishes . . .
An alien race understands the simple reward of giving, when their human captive does not . . .
Young lovers planning a Christmas wedding find their promise to each other is put to the ultimate test . . .
A ghostly groom refuses to stay away from the woman he loves . . .
For two modern believers, a magical, mystical visit to Bethlehem on the night of the Christ Child’s birth is both a joy and a responsibility . . .
And many more heartwarming, romantic stories celebrating ‘The Season To Be Jolly.’

Please join us as we tell a few tales, raise a glass of holiday cheer, and deck the halls with romance as well as boughs of holly!

BUY LINK

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Halloween Special Day 4




I will be giving away an autographed copy of my novel, Dreams of the Highlander to one lucky commenter!

Enjoy this excerpt!


Chapter 1

“Love looks with the mind, not with the eyes.”

William Shakespeare



Newtonmore Scotland, 1701

“Mairi,” he whispered.

“I love ye with all of my heart.” The evidence of that love clung to her soft voice.

Alexander swallowed the lump of fear that rose in his throat. “I love ye, too.” He lowered his gaze to their beautiful son nestled in his arms. Brown hair dusted the little head and he gently ran his hands over the silky forehead as he fought back tears.

“I want ye to be happy, Alexander.” A blanket of confusion covered him as she turned away in sadness to stare out the window.

“What are ye saying, Mairi? Ye’re going to be fine.” He said it with as much conviction as he could muster. His hand cupped her cheek, his thumb slowly brushing strokes back and forth.

Alexander readjusted himself on the bed. She turned then, to stare back into his eyes, her hand grasping his. The sadness had left and in its place, determination settled in.

“No, I won’t and we both know it.” She swallowed with difficulty. “Promise me, Alexander. Promise me ye willna grieve for me forever.” He watched, stunned, as her hand dropped from his.

Alexander heard his mother sobbing in the background as he sat there with his stillborn son held tightly in his arms and watched his wife slip peacefully from this world.


BUY LINKS

http://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Highlander-Sarah-Hoss/dp/1619352974/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383219737&sr=8-1&keywords=Dreams+of+the+highlander

www.soulmatepublishing.com. 



Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Halloween Special Day 3





Hi, Sarah. Thank you for inviting me to your Halloween celebration! For the occasion, I’d like to tell you and your fans about Dearest Irish (Texas Devlins, Rose’s Story) – book three in my Texas Devlins trilogy. I will also give away a Kindle or Nook copy of this book to one lucky reader who comments and leaves a contact email address.

A story filled with adventure, romance and passion, Dearest Irish also contains a rather “spooky” element. Although the story begins and ends in Texas, much of this Native American/paranormal romance takes place in the Indian Territory, ca. 1876. Offering a glimpse of reservation life and the prejudice faced by mixed race couples, it features a uniquely gifted heroine.

Rose Devlin, like her older siblings, possesses psychic talent inherited from a hidden line of Irish Celtic Druids stretching far back in time. Rose is blessed with the extraordinary ability to heal with her mind, a secret gift which has caused her great pain in the past. She also keeps another terrible secret that may prevent her from ever finding love.

Choctaw Jack, a half-breed cowboy introduced in Dashing Irish (book two in the trilogy), straddles two worlds, dividing his loyalties between his mother’s people and the family of a friend who died in the Civil War. Like Rose, he keeps shocking secrets. If they ever come to light, he stands to lose his job, possibly his life. Yet, after his chance discovery of Rose’s amazing gift, he risks everything, kidnapping her from her brother’s Texas ranch in the belief that she can save his dying mother.

As Jack spirits Rose north to the Indian Territory, she comes to accept his reason for abducting her but fears the unwanted feelings he stirs within her. Along the way they’re tested by natural forces and individuals, both white and red, who revile Jack and scorn Rose for riding with him. However, far greater challenges lie ahead. Rose’s healing power and courage will be pushed to their limits, while Jack finds the greatest risk he faces is caring too much for his lovely paleface captive.



Book Excerpt: This scene is where Jack discovers Rose’s secret gift.

Jack eased past the open barn door and glided noiselessly into a dark corner where Miss Devlin wasn’t likely to see him if she happened to glance his way. Unable to sleep thanks to the aching gash in his back and his unwanted thoughts of Tye Devlin’s pretty sister, he’d gone for a walk. Moments ago, he’d been on his way back to the bunkhouse, determined to sleep, when he spotted the young woman leaving the main house. Curious, he’d followed her to the barn, careful to remain in deep shadows in case she turned to look behind her.

Now, he watched her walk quietly to the last stall on the left, where Tye had placed the troublesome stallion. She paused outside the enclosure, raised her lamp to see the horse, and began to speak in a soft tone. Jack crept closer, straining to hear what she said.

“Hello, darlin’. Come here to me. Ye needn’t be afraid. If you’ll let me, I’ll try to take the pain away.” She continued to croon reassuring words until, to Jack’s amazement, the horse limped over to her and extended his head over the stall gate. As docile as a pet pony, he allowed her to scratch his forehead and rub his muzzle. All the while, she kept talking to him in that soft, sweet tone.

Jack was fascinated by the sight, but when she lifted the latch, preparing to enter the stall, he tensed in alarm. He opened his mouth, ready to order her not to go in there with the dangerous stallion, but something stopped him, perhaps the horse’s calm behavior. Or maybe he was just curious to see what the fool white woman would do next. Edging closer still, he watched her enter the stall. She didn’t bother closing the gate, and Jack expected the mustang to make a break for freedom, but surprisingly, the horse didn’t move.

Setting her lamp down near the gate, Miss Devlin slowly approached him, offering her hand. He snuffled at it and allowed her to step close. She gently stroked his neck, causing a visible tremor to pass over the glossy brown surface. The stallion butted her with his head, obviously liking her touch. She giggled and scratched around his ears. Jack shook his head, hardly believing his own eyes. The woman sure did have a way with horses.

She went on talking to the big brute as she slowly stroked downward along his injured right foreleg. He gave no sign of fear or rebellion, although he did shift sideways when she touched the sore area. She said something Jack couldn’t understand, in Irish? – and the horse immediately settled. Then she squatted, rubbed her hands together briskly, and wrapped them around the swollen part of his leg. She bent her head and her lips moved, praying, Jack guessed.

All at once the stallion whinnied and danced away from her. Jack prepared to dash into the stall and drag her to safety, but she calmly rose and resumed speaking to the wary horse.

“There now, don’t be afraid. I’m sorry it hurt for a moment. ’Tis feeling better now, aye? By morning you’ll not know ’twas ever sprained.” She moved close again, patted the mustang’s neck and gave him another good scratch around his ears. He nickered softly in response.

“There’s a good lad,” she murmured. “Now, I’d best be getting back to my bed. Good night to ye.” With a final pat, she bent to pick up her lamp and exited the stall.

While she paused to latch the gate, Jack slipped out of the barn, not wanting to get locked in there. He hid himself in deep shadows again and waited while the young woman struggled to replace the heavy board that barred the doors. He would have helped but didn’t want her to know he’d been spying on her. He also didn’t want to frighten her.

Once she was safely inside the main house, he headed for his bunk. Sleep eluded him as before, this time because he was anxious for daylight so he could see the results of Miss Devlin’s midnight visit. As soon as dawn broke, he rolled out of bed, pulled on his boots and strode back to the barn. The brown stallion greeted him with a fierce neigh and charged the stall gate. However, he didn’t try to knock it down, evidently having learned his lesson yesterday. He stopped short, stuck his head out and bared his teeth. Smiling at the threatening display, Jack stayed well out of reach.

What interested him was the horse’s right foreleg. Crouching to look it over between the slats in the gate, he clearly saw the swelling had disappeared and the horse wasn’t favoring the leg at all. It appeared completely healed. Jack straightened and slowly retraced his steps to the barn’s open doorway. Crossing his arms, he stared at the house.

“So, Rose Devlin, you do have magic. You’re a medicine woman.” He chuckled. “You’re also a little liar.”

Purchase Dearest Irish here:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CK9LGA2 (Kindle & paperback)

http://tinyurl.com/l64ctss (Nook at Barnes & Noble)

Monday, October 28, 2013

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL DAY 2

I am continuing the Halloween special with Author NANCY LEE BADGER! Nancy is giving away an e-book copy of her book, DRAGON BITES! All you have to do is leave a comment. Please leave an email address so that it is easy for me to contact you if you are the winner. 





DRAGON BITES: Scottish Dragon Tales in Ebook or Print by Nancy Lee Badger

DRAGON Bites is three books in one! It is a collection of three similarly themed novellas previously published as individual ebooks.

DRAGON'S CURSE, set on the Scottish island of Staffa in the late 16th century, features a young man cursed to transform into a dragon at inopportune times.

SOUTHERN FRIED DRAGON pairs a Scottish dragon-turned-woman and a federal soldier at Ft. Sumter on the eve of Civil War.

DRAGON IN THE MIST is a contemporary love story on the shores of Loch Ness. This short story won 1st Place in its category in the 2012 Self-Published Stars Contest.

DRAGON Bites is available in ebook and trade-size paperback.

Buy Links

Amazon Ebook http://amzn.to/15LqV24
Amazon Print http://amzn.to/17Ynsni
NOOK Ebook http://bit.ly/16aZFuP
Barnes&Nobel Print http://bit.ly/15vYjhG

Smashwords http://bit.ly/17GB6K3

KOBO http://bit.ly/1bPNbAU

iTunes http://bit.ly/1hbfbw1

Connect with Nancy Lee Badger
Blog http://www.nancyleebadger.blogspot.com
Website http://www.nancyleebadger.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/NLBadger
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/#!/nancy.l.badger
Goodreads http://bit.ly/Vd1Usg
Amazon Author Page http://amzn.to/13ICHLq



Sunday, October 27, 2013

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL!

Today I am interviewing author, Joanne Guidoccio. Enjoy the interview and leave a comment. Joanne is giving away a $10 gift certificate to Amazon. Be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win. 



Post
The lawyer shook his head. “I still don’t understand why your mermaid has to be old and fat.”

“Fifty-three is not that old.” I ignored the weight issue.

He persisted. “It is when it comes to mermaids. Why couldn’t you just let her be young, thin and beautiful?”

Thankfully, the conversation was interrupted by the facilitator’s call to resume the workshop. A few minutes more and I might have lost patience with the annoying lawyer who simply wouldn’t accept my vision of an older mermaid.

Since releasing Between Land and Sea, I have encountered varied responses to the overweight, middle-aged mermaid abandoned on the fog-drenched shores of southwest England.

Women, of all ages, were intrigued and happy to hear about a mermaid who is not so young or so beautiful. Boomers, especially those struggling with relationships, embraced the idea of an older mermaid. A recently divorced friend confided that she hoped to get several pointers from Isabella’s journey. In her Amazon review, English teacher Colleen McConnell described it as “a classic wisdom tale with a twist...reminiscent of Jane Austen.”

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that many thirty-something and forty-something women were also interested in Isabella’s reinvention story. Among the twenty-something crowd, the reactions varied. My niece, Christina, summarized it best: “We’re still at the invention stage.”

Very few men were as argumentative as the lawyer. My male friends and relatives wanted to hear more about the unconventional mermaid and the international banker who dumped her. Several were amused by the concept of a mermaid carrying extra pounds and one asked if the artist was planning to feature an overweight mermaid on the cover.

Any thoughts out there about older, wiser mermaids...



Blurb

After giving up her tail for an international banker, Isabella of the Mediterranean kingdom is aged beyond recognition. The horrified banker abandons her on the fog-drenched shores of southwest England, leaving her to face a difficult human journey as a plain and practically destitute fifty-three-year-old woman.

With the help of a magic tablet and online mermaid support, Isabella evolves into the persona of Barbara Davies. Along the way, she encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, among them former mermaids, supportive and not-so-supportive women, deserving and undeserving men, and several New Agers.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Interview with Author, B.J. SCOTT




Highland Homecoming by B.J. Scott



Author bio: With a passion for historical romance, history in general, and anything Celtic, B.J. always has an exciting work in progress. Each story offers a blend of romance, adventure, suspense, and, where appropriate, a dab of comic relief. Carefully researched historical facts are woven into each manuscript, providing a backdrop from which steamy romance, gripping plots, and vivid characters—dashing alpha heroes and resourceful, beguiling heroines you can’t help but admire—spring to life. A member of RWA, World Romance Writers, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and Savvy Authors, B.J. also writes contemporary, paranormal, time travel, and romantic suspense.

C.S. Lewis first captivated B. J.’s imagination in the fourth grade, and her desire to write sprang from there. Following a career in nursing and child and youth work, B.J. married her knight-in-shining-armor, and he whisked her away to his castle by the sea. In reality, they share their century-old home in a small Canadian town on the shore of Lake Erie with three dogs and a cat. When she is not working at her childcare job, on her small business, or writing, you will find her reading, camping, or antique hunting.

Book Blurb: The last thing Alasdair Fraser expects to find on an isolated beach in Northern Scotland is a beautiful, unconscious lass. Unable to turn his back on someone in need, he delays his journey and tends to her injuries–an act that has him questioning his destiny and his plans to rejoin the fight for Scotland’s independence.

Will he drop the shield that guards his heart or will the secrets she fails to reveal and his own stubbornness keep them apart forever?



Excerpt:

Northern Coast of Scotland. Summer 1308

Hooves pounded against rocks, surf, and sand as Alasdair Fraser pushed his mount beyond reasonable limits. Few things rivaled the thrill and exhilarating rush of mastering the powerful destrier between his thighs, controlling the magnificent beast with reins and will. The wind whipped through unbound hair and the tangy scent of the salty sea air filled Alasdair’s nostrils.

He’d ridden hard all afternoon, hoping to reach the stronghold of his longtime friend, Jayden Sinclair. But the sun had slipped below the horizon, the twilight sky ablaze with orange, red, and purple hues. Darkness would soon be upon him and he’d be forced to make camp for the night. He licked his parched lips and his stomach rumbled. Many hours had passed since he’d last eaten, but a hot meal and a tankard of ale would have to wait. Water, oatcakes, and a bit of dried venison would suffice until he reached his destination.

He dug in his heels, and the steed surged forward. The more distance they covered before nightfall, the shorter the journey would be on the morrow. But as they rounded a bend in the shoreline, Odin faltered, reared up on his hind legs, then began to dance nervously from side-to-side. The battle-hardened warhorse didn’t spook easily so Alasdair took heed of the animal’s uneasiness.

With one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, the other fisting the reins, he carefully surveyed the immediate area. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, yet the niggling of trepidation gnawing at his gut led him to believe there was something amiss. He nudged the horse’s flank and the pair advanced with caution.

They’d only traveled a short distance up the beach when the sight of something a few yards ahead at the water’s edge brought them to an abrupt halt. With his heart hammering in his chest, Alasdair cupped his hand over his brow and narrowed his eyes, trying to get a better look. The image came into focus and he could make out the unmistakable outline of a person sprawled out on the shore.

“What is it, Odin? Or, should I say, who is it?”

While this could be someone in need, it might also be a trap, an enemy or bandit lying in wait. Without hesitation, Alasdair slid from the saddle, pulled a claymore from the baldric slung on his back, and raced down the beach on foot. Stopping a few feet away, he sucked in a sharp breath.

“Mo chreach!”

He sheathed his weapon and took a step closer. A young woman, wearing nothing more than a thin nightrail, lay motionless in the sand, the waves of the incoming tide lapping at her bare feet.



Buy links

Highland Homecoming( book 3 of Fraser Brother Trilogy)

http://www.amazon.com/Highland-Homecoming-Brothers-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00F9U3SBO



Highland Quest (book 2 of Fraser Brother Trilogy)

http://www.amazon.com/Highland-Fraser-Brothers-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00AQKYPU0



Highland Legacy: (book 1 of Fraser Brother Trilogy)

http://www.amazon.com/Highland-Legacy-Brothers-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B0065KX8P8



Where to find B.J. Scott. 


email: bjscott@authorbjscott.com

web www.authorbjscott.com

blog: http://authorbjscott.wordpress.com

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Interview with Author, MARY GILLGANNON



Today I’m interviewing Mary Gillgannon. Her book, Saint Sin, is a Regency historical romance and was released on August 28.




Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

To save her brother from crushing gambling debt, Ariella Lyndgate is willing to do nearly anything. Offered an opportunity to cancel the debt by stealing a valuable diamond from a wealthy and dissolute earl known as “Saint Sin”, ariella agrees. She attends one of the earl’s parties and is searching her host’s bedchamber for the diamond when he walks in.

Set in the vivid Regency world of glittering ballrooms, sinister gambling hells and squalid back alleyways, Saint Sin explores the sizzling temptation and wrenching choices that face two desperate people who must risk everything for love.



Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

Regency romances take place between 1811 and 1820. Traditional Regencies are usually sweet and chaste but this one is quite sexy. In addition to this time period, I also write in the dark age and medieval eras and sometimes even earlier.



How did this story come to be?

I started this book over ten years ago. I was drawn to the Regency era because I find the contrasts of this time period so intriguing. There is great wealth and desperate poverty existing side-by-side. The upper classes engage in outrageously licentious behavior, and yet most people have to live by strict rules of propriety. Men could get away with almost anything in terms of sexual behavior, while ladies had to behave a certain way or risk being ruined. But a man’s honor was everything. If he didn’t pay his gambling debts, he was “done up” and disgraced. My heroine’s younger brother faces that prospect… and worse. That’s why she’s desperate enough to steal to save him, although she’s assuages her conscience that the diamond she’s after doesn’t really belong to the man who possesses it. But she certainly doesn’t expect to find herself intensely attracted to that man and eventually, to fall in love with him.



Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold?

My early career was kind of a “Cinderella story” as I sold my first book less than two years after finishing it. By then I had two other books partially completed.



What is your writing routine like?

I usually start writing soon after getting up and write until it’s time to go to my day job, (I work in a public library.) or on weekends, begin my chores. I’m definitely not a morning person in any other way, but somehow it’s easy for me to transition from the “dream state” to a creative writing mode. But I do try to squeeze in more writing later in the day if I can.



Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

Being able to share my stories with readers. I would write even if I wasn’t published, but it’s much more gratifying to have an audience.



Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

I’ve belonged to Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers for over twenty years. I found my first agent and editor through them and I still attend their conferences. On-line, I enjoy the Celtic Hearts Chapter of RWA.



What character is most like you or least like you?
All of my characters have a little of me in them, although I’m not as brave or as resourceful. But Aurora, the heroine of my first book, Dragon of the Island, is the most like me.



What most inspires you in life?

Nature and history. Nature because it’s the source of all life, the life we all had at one time. Our connection to animals and the natural world is primal and deep and we forget it at the peril of our souls.



What’s next for you?

I’m gradually re-releasing my previously published books as ebooks. In between that, I’m working on new projects, including a reincarnation romance series and a fantasy series based on Celtic and Norse legends.



BOOK BLURB

When decadent earl Michael St. Cyr, “Saint Sin”, discovers Ariella Lyndgate in his bedchamber, he assumes she’s a fashionable impure sent to entertain him. Caught in the act of stealing a diamond to pay off her brother’s ruinous debts, Ariella agrees to the dalliance. But as she continues the erotic deception, she finds herself falling for the enigmatic lord.



A little bit about the author.

I grew up in Illinois and Iowa and now live in Wyoming, where I met and married my husband. I’ve been writing for over 20 years and the question is whether I’ll live long enough to finish all the stories in my head.



Excerpt

“So,” he said. “Are you going to tell me what you're doing here? Or should I guess?”

She licked her dry lips. No plausible explanation came to mind. None.

He moved suddenly, coming to stand a few feet away. Her heart stopped. “Mmmm,” he said. “I assume that means I’ll have to guess. Let me think. I come to my bedroom to discover a beautiful young woman waiting for me. What could it mean? That I've died and gone to heaven and she's my reward?” He shook his head. “Doubtful. Very doubtful. Or, perhaps she wandered in here by mistake, looking for the water closet?” Ariella opened her mouth to agree, but he went on, “Yet that would seem very unlikely since there are half a dozen water closets between here and the ballroom. No, I think you must be here for something else.”

He moved nearer, his gaze assessing. She surveyed him as well, observing the faint lines etching his elegant features. The long, lean power of his body. The way strands of his raven hair had escaped the black ribbon tying it. Another oddity. No men she knew wore their hair in a queue.

He still held a half-empty wine glass, cradling it in graceful fingers. “Mmmm,” he said again, with a kind of feigned amazement. “You're dressed like a Cyprian more than a lady, but then it's hard to tell about such things these days.” Smiling tightly, he added. “Many ladies of my acquaintance indulge in behavior more suitable for a street corner doxy.”

He slowly circled her, perusing her body. By the time he came to stand in front of her once more, Ariella's heart was thudding in her chest like a drum. The key to the safe, concealed in her left hand, seemed to burn her fingers.

“Yes,” he said. “You make a delightful fashionable impure. The perfect blend of refinement and sensuality.” His gaze surveyed her once more. “But, the question remains, what is a luscious demi-rep doing in my bedchamber?” He raised his eyes to her face.

Ariella remained frozen, like a rabbit trapped by a predator. Then, all at once, the words came tumbling out. “I was sent here ... by a gentleman friend of yours.” It was only a half-lie.

His puzzlement seemed to intensify. “Sent here? As a gift?” He stared at her. Then a slow smile spread across his face. “Henley, the devil. He's always going on and on about how I need to get on with my life. Forget the past.” A dark look crossed his face, making him appear quite sinister. “As if I could forget. As if anyone ...” He took a deep breath and drained his wine glass in one gulp. Then he looked at the empty glass and a strange, almost savage expression suffused his features. “That's what I came here for, more wine.”

He crossed to the cabinet, seemingly forgetting she was in the room. Ariella wondered if she should make a dash for it. She was on the verge of doing so when he abruptly turned back to her. “So, tell me, what are your specialties? Women like you often cater to certain tastes or proclivities.”

She stared at him dumbly. What was he talking about?

He drew near again. “What about your personal tastes? Do you like men who are rough? Or, do you prefer it slow and easy?”

She hoped she wasn't coloring too fiercely. A Cyprian wouldn't blush. She must maintain the illusion of sophistication.

“Perhaps you like games,” he said. “I could tie you up ... or ...” That slow smile again, beguiling, almost boyish, so in contrast to the dark, haunted expression. “... you could tie me up.”

That was it. The solution to her conundrum. “Yes,” she said. She tried to appear seductive. “I could tie you up. Henley actually suggested it.”

St. Cyr laughed, showing dazzling white teeth. “He did, did he? The bastard. I suppose that's part of his plan, that I should lose control. Indulge myself and stop thinking about ...” His mouth twitched. “All right, then. Let's proceed.” He glanced around the room. “What can you use to tie me?” He motioned for her to wait there, then moved swiftly to his dressing room.

As soon as he left the room, she glanced at the painting on the wall. Behind it was the safe and the Blue Moon. She edged toward it, fingering the key concealed in her hand. Before she reached it, she heard St. Cyr coming back. In a panic, she thrust the key between her breasts.

He reappeared, a half dozen ascot ties dangling from his hands. Smiling, he said, “Do you think you can manage with these?”

She should have fled while she had the chance. Now, she was well and truly trapped. Unless she could tie him up and manage to get to the safe before he could free himself. The vague, desperate idea tantalized her. How close she was to her goal. If she were clever, if she made use of his weaknesses, she might still be able to accomplish her objective. He was obviously inebriated. And perhaps a bit deranged. His shifts of mood were astonishing. She might be able to use his distraction and confusion to get what she wished.

“Come here.” His voice was velvety deep, enthralling. She could feel her body responding. That was the flaw in her plan. This man unsettled her. Intrigued her. He stood by the great, canopy-draped bed, looking elegant and mysterious. “Come here,” he said again.

She obeyed him, her insides fluttering. When she got within a couple of feet, she stopped. She could smell him. Wine and something else. Something darker and more threatening. His own scent. Male. Almost animal. He smiled at her, lazily, enticing.

“If you want to tie me up, you'll have to come closer.”

Relax. Remember your plan. The end justifies the means. You have a chance to save your brother. If you don't take it, you’re a coward. A miserable, worthless coward!



How can my readers buy your book?

Readers can go to the publisher’s home page at www.soulmatepublishing.com

You can find more information about Mary Gillgannon and my book, Saint Sin, by

visiting my website, http://marygillgannon.com or

my blog at http://marygillgannon.blogspot.com.





Just a few fun questions to answer if you don’t mind.



1) East Coast or West Coast? West for the forests. East for the cities.

2) What is your favorite thing to drink? Cabernet Sauvignon

3) What is your favorite holiday? Lughnasa (Gaelic harvest festival, August 1)

4) Who is your favorite author to read? Juliet Marillier

5) What’s your favorite movie? Ryan’s Daughter

6) If you could have a week to do anything you wanted and money was no object what would you do? Go to Wales and hike non-stop.

7) What’s your favorite color? Purple

8) Dog or cat? Cat. I have four.

9) What’s your favorite flavor of Starbursts candy? strawberry

10) What is your favorite childhood toy? Pink dog when I was three.





Thank you for allowing me to interview you here at Heart of Romance. Good luck to you in your future!!!

Monday, September 9, 2013

Interview with Author LAUREL O'DONNELL



Today I’m interviewing Laurel O’Donnell. Her book, Angel’s Assassin is a medieval romance and was released on September 2012.



Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Angel’s Assassin is an award winning medieval romance about Damien who is an assassin assigned to kill Lady Aurora in order to gain his freedom. The problem is that when he sees her, he is struck by her kindness. He comes to like the man he is when he is around her and must decide between Aurora’s life and his freedom.

Angel’s Assassin has won the 2013 International Digital Award for Historical Novel. It also won the 2012 Golden Rose award for the Best Historical Romance Novel. Just the other day, I was informed that Angel’s Assassin made it to the final round in the Heart of Excellence, Readers Choice Award. Wish me luck!

On a more personal note, Angel’s Assassin means a lot to me. I love the tale of redemption and the love that grows inside a man who thinks he is unworthy. It really is the book of my heart!




Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

Angel’s Assassin is a medieval romance. It is set amidst the backdrop of castles and knights. Many of my novels are written in the medieval era. I have always enjoyed writing medieval romances. It was a grand era of gallant knights and their ladies.

I have also written a paranormal romance entitled Immortal Death and an urban fantasy series entitled Lost Souls.



How did this story come to be?

Truthfully, I don’t remember. It took me a long time (over five years) to write Angel’s Assassin. I had a lot of trouble with the ending. I wrote 4 different endings until I got it right. How do I know it’s the right one? Damien told me!



Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold?

No. My first novel, The Angel and The Prince, was a Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart finalist. My editor was a judge. She liked the manuscript so much that she made me an offer. The Angel and The Prince was the first novel I had ever written.



What is your writing routine like? 

I wish I was more disciplined. I have about an hour a day to actually write. I sit down at the computer and let the characters tell their story. Some days they are very cooperative and some days they are not!




Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

I love to hear from my readers. So, I have to say fan mail or email is the most rewarding thing. My time is so precious. To think that a reader liked my novel so much that they took the time out of their busy day to sit down and pen me a letter or email is very humbling.





Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

I am a member of Romance Writers of America. And yes, they have helped. If not for their national contest, the Golden Heart, I might never have gotten in touch with my editor.



What character is most like you or least like you?

I suppose that all of my characters have a little bit of me in them. Scary, I know, especially when you consider the villains. I like to think that Aurora is the most like me. She is kind and generous and puts the needs of others before herself. That may be too idealistic. But I like to think that. J



What most inspires you in life?

Sunrises. Sunsets. Nature. So beautiful and peaceful.



What’s next for you?
I am currently working on another medieval romance, tentatively entitled A True Knight. It’s about tournaments and jousting. The heroine, Layne, enjoys things that a women in those days is not supposed to like. She would rather be sword fighting with her brothers then embroidering. The hero, Griffin, is a skilled knight. He believes that women should be elegant and reserved and have duties befitting the fair creatures they are. When Layne takes her brothers place during a joust and unhorses Griffin, well, let’s just say their worlds are turned upside down.




BOOK BLURB

Damien is an assassin, a man with no home and a tortured past. Sold into slavery as a young boy, he is trained to kill with cold calculation, without remorse. As a reward for his ruthless success, he is given a chance to earn his freedom from his cruel master. One last mission. One final person to slay...

Lady Aurora of Acquitaine is the epitome of purity and goodness, beloved by all her people. She lives her life trying to atone for her mother's cruelty by being a fair and just ruler. Secretly she fears that one day her mother's murderer will return for her.

When Damien enters Aurora's life, tempting her with promises of dark passion and forbidden lust, he threatens to tear her peaceful world apart with shadowy secrets of his own.

Can Aurora's light heal Damien's dark spirit or will his evil consume her? The eternal battle of good versus evil, love versus hate, dark versus light, all come to a shattering climax in this historical romance set in medieval England.



A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE AUTHOR.

Laurel O’Donnell lives in Illinois with her husband, four children and five cats. She has always enjoyed escaping into the medieval era, including spending a summer interning at the renaissance faire in Wisconsin where she learned to sword fight and recite Shakespeare. Now, she spends her time reading a good book, swimming or, of course, writing.




How can my readers buy your book?

Readers can go to the publisher’s home page at www.laurel-odonnell.com

Check out my book trailer at: http://www.laurel-odonnell.com/medieval-romance-novels/angels-assassin/angels-assassin-book-trailer.html


You can find more information about Laurel O’Donnell and my book, Angel’s Assassin by

visiting my website, www.laurel-odonnell.com.



Just a few fun questions to answer if you don’t mind.

1) Hotel room or Tent? Hotel

2) What is your favorite thing to eat? Chocolate

3) What is your favorite holiday? Halloween

4) Who is your favorite author to read? Victoria Alexander

5) What’s your favorite movie? The Green Mile

6) If you were given only one Christmas present but it could be anything in the world, what would you choose? A trip to England

7) What’s your favorite color? Maroon

8) Mountains or Beach? Beach

9) What’s your favorite flavor of Skittles? Don’t like Skittles

10) What is your favorite childhood memory? Playing with my dog, Chipper



Thank you for allowing me to interview you here at Heart of Romance. Good luck to you in your future!!!



Friday, August 23, 2013

Interview with Author GINA DANNA!




Once upon a time, this vampire ran into this pirate….

Ah, the love of pirates! Okay, of Captain Jack Sparrow…The Pirates of the Caribbean holds the attraction of many fans across the world. And vampires…the following of The Vampire Diaries and True Blood still continues to this day. But what if these worlds collided?

Three years ago, I began my historical romance novel about a pirate in the West Indies (Caribbean) and set it during one of the eras I love to read about – Regency (c. 1800). But the story needed a twist, a different approach. I liked the above vampire stories and many more so why not make my hero Alexander, not only a pirate captain but also a vampire pirate?

The make that one elementary change plunged the tale into a new sphere. Sailors of that era and before and even later, believed the seas were home to many monsters and evil spots that lay waiting to devour them and their ships. The kraken was one of the well-known creatures, known to seep up and take everything down into the inky depths of the sea. Mermaids were sirens, also leading men to the deaths. In the Caribbean, voodoo was born during the European occupation as a way to strike fear into the white oppressors. Plus the tales of vampiric creatures prevailed in Europe for centuries since the Black Death. Therefore, why not make the superstitious sailors of the sea, who feared these evils along with the scourge of the seas, pirates, come to face their own evil – a vampire pirate?

Her Eternal Rogue is a historical fiction steeped in romance of Alexander and Lavinia, based on historic research of pirates and vampires in the structure of Regency England. Step into the depths of the period in the West Indies where Alexander ruled the seas as the infamous pirate, Captain Sword, his rescue of Lady Lavinia and their return to her home in London in a tale of the unexpected!

Her Eternal Rogue

Excerpt:

Alexander sat at the table and finished another glass of rum, mentally assessing the damage to his ship. And his unwanted guest. Though attempting to drown himself in three-fourths of a bottle of rum, he wasn’t nearly inebriated enough to dampen his growing desire for her.
Ian sat across the table from him, staring. Alexander knew the Scotsman too well to believe he’d stay silent much longer.
“So,” the Scotsman began. “When will ye tell the lassie she’s gonnae home?”
Alexander looked at him hard and poured himself another glass. “I’ll not be goin’ close to any British port with a damaged ship...”
“Ach, I see,” the Scotsman speculated. “So, you thinkin’ about keepin’ her fer yerself, then?”
“No,” Alexander answered too quickly, downing a gulp. An absurd thought, he knew, but so tempting.
“Well,” Ian continued. “Wi’ her stayin’ here, that’ll leave many tae believe we’re cursed wi’ a woman onboard and no charges lifted.”
Alexander laughed. Cursed by having a woman onboard? He’d tell them about curses…
“Fine, put her in the aft cabin till we’re through with…”
“Capt’n, ye cannae be placin’ her there,” Ian scolded, sounding like a father reprimanding his son. “Be pirates on this ship, sair, and puttin’ her there is more or less tellin’ the boys she’s fer sharin’.”
            “What would you have me do?” Alexander barked. When Ian didn’t respond, Alexander downed another gulp. “Keep her where she is?”
“Aye.”
“Fine, then I’ll sleep in the aft cabin.”
“Capt’n,” Ian said quietly. “Ye cannae be doin’ that either.”
            Alexander glared at the glass in front of him. Damn, the man was right. Pirate ships had no assigned quarters. Sleeping areas were open to all. But on The Lily, Alexander’s curse and the pirates’ fear of it, enabled him to claim the larger cabin exclusively. But he was furious at having to house the English aristocrat there. Too far below her station when he’d lived in England, he would have been denied access to her but here… He shook his head. He and his crew had a reward for her safe return, and he had to remember that. Ah yes, the reward. A clean slate—for the moment. A few months with no law in pursuit, leaving them open to rob whomever they wanted. A laugh but one both sides held for the British navy remained heavily occupied across the ocean with the French, too busy to chase every pirate on the seas.
Sharing quarters with her, being so close to her, was too dangerous for them both. Her body was designed to entice any man to wanton desires. A temptation he couldn’t ignore since he’d kissed her the first time he saw her. Truly decadent on his part, but piracy did allow deviations to any plan. He’d wanted to kiss those ruby lips, to invade her mouth and, as he’d plunged his tongue into her, she’d tasted sweet, like strawberries and cream. Everything about her made him want to bury himself deep inside her. He downed another mouthful of rum. He feared if he was alone with her for too long, he’d lose all his control. He’d never love her. The idea of him ever loving a woman had been squashed that night years ago. But lust remained…
No, he thought, she had to go and soon.
Furious at the situation and how the rum had failed to diminish his desires, Alexander slammed his glass down and left the galley.
When he opened his cabin door, he readied himself for her demand that he release her. Prepared for her verbal assault, he sighed with relief when he saw Lavinia curled up tight in the wingback chair, asleep. She did not even move at the sound of the door. The moonlight gave her an angelic glow. So young and full of life. Asleep, her blond hair tumbling over her shoulders and her bare ankles and dainty feet bent partway beneath her. His cock twitched with longing. A fairy asleep in the devil’s den. There’d be no arguments, no demands nor screams of protest coming from her tonight. But he could make her scream in ecstasy. He closed his eyes, burying his thoughts.
The boat swayed slightly, and he stumbled. Leaning against the doorframe, he felt his tension drain. His eyes shut, and he allowed the rum to overtake him, sliding to the floor and into the arms of oblivion.

Barnes & Noble:  http://bit.ly/17NluHb


Author Gina Danna

Sunday, August 11, 2013

CHRISTMAS IN JULY!

That's right! Okay.... July is over and this is August, but why can't we pretend and buy ourselves presents all year long? Don't we deserve it?

Well, I see we do! And I would like to show you two presents right here. Both books have 5 star reviews at Amazon.com.


Where to buy- http://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Sent-ebook/dp/B00AO6IT30/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1376232056&sr=8-10&keywords=Heaven+Sent

BLURB-

When forgiveness heals the soul, love heals the heart.

Flight nurse Tenlee Hawkins is used to making quick decisions, but one decision she made the Christmas day her mother died haunts her. Wrestling with the past, she spirals into depression—until the day she finds a man unconscious in her woods and saves his life.

When Sam awakens in the hospital with a concussion and no memory, Tenlee rescues him again. She takes him into her home and her life. But as Sam recovers and remembers who he is, he's torn. A guardian angel isn't supposed to fall in love.

As the promise of true love grows, Tenlee realizes that Sam has helped her much more than she ever helped him. But Sam is filled with guilt knowing he must soon leave. Will it take a Christmas miracle to find the life with Tenlee he’s always wanted?

***Also found at The Wild Rose Press.







BLURB- Haunted by a recurring dream, Marlana Crawford ventures to Scotland in search of answers. But a careless wish lands her in the 17th century and the arms of Alexander Macpherson—a handsome, brooding, Highlander, who after losing his wife and babe during childbirth, vowed never to love again.

Surprised to find a mysterious, brown-haired beauty in his home, Alexander fights the undeniable attraction between them and is determined to figure out a way to send her packing without losing his head or his heart.

When Marlana has a chance encounter with his enemy, it changes the stakes, and Alexander is forced to face two battles, one to win Marlana’s affection, the other to save her life.

***Also found at Soul Mate Publishing

Monday, July 29, 2013

Sorry I've been M.I.A.

I want to apologize for my absence and not bringing you some of the wonderful interviews I have lined up, but I have had the worst episode dealing with my internet!

I will be back next week with those interviews I promised though, so stay tuned!

Sincerely,
Sarah

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Interview with Author, LONDON CASEY





With the release of Torn to Pieces (The Boys of DownCrash #2) I’m left with one more book to complete the trilogy. I’m a little sad to see it come to an end but so excited to finally be so close to having the series out and available. The band in the series is DownCrash and these three guys are the members…


Tripp – (The Stronger, Safe Kind) He’s got attitude, tattoos, and a big heart. From the second he and Scarlett see each other, there’s a connection. But Scarlett is struggling with her own heart after the confession from her close friend, Andy, when he gets drunk and says he loves her. Andy can give Scarlett an easy life but Tripp’s past and his deepest secrets could possibly be enough to get Scarlett to open up about her hidden past too.


Tatum – (Torn to Pieces) The super sexy drummer. He’s tall. No tattoos. But he has piercings. His lip… and somewhere else. When Tatum starts fooling around Scarlett’s roommate, Maggie, things get hot and heavy pretty quick. But then things start to unravel when someone from Maggie’s past comes back, demanding a chance at her future. This isn’t just love and it isn’t just romance… this could possibly mean life and death.


Logan – the quiet but hot bassist. In his book, Logan finally gets a chance to open up. He meets Maggie’s best friend from high school, Annie, and the last thing he’s looking for is a romance. But he can’t help it… he can’t help falling for her… but then fate steps in and Logan feels he’s in the middle of a cruel game.



These stories are packed with love, lust, romance, heartache, addiction, recovery, and real life. It’s been a pleasure writing these books and I hope to keep bringing these kinds of stories to readers!



BOOK #1

The Stronger, Safer Kind
(The Boys of DownCrash #1)

All Scarlett wanted to do was thank the sexy stranger who helped her push away a drunk, grabby college boy at a bar. When that stranger identifies himself as Tripp and then takes the stage as the lead singer and guitarist for rock band, DownCrash, everything in Scarlett's life begins to change.

Her best friend, Andy, confesses his love for her and leaves her with what should be an easy decision to make... yet each time she looks in Andy's eyes, she can't help but face her secret, nightmarish past.

The only thing that makes Scarlett feel better is Tripp... but Tripp isn't just a bad boy rockstar, he's hurt. He's in pain. He tries to hide his pain in a bottle, but Scarlett believes that, perhaps, their secrets can help each other.

Friendship and love is suddenly put to the test, and Scarlett is torn... Will she choose an easy, comfortable, happy life or a life clouded with mixed signals, raw emotion, and intense romance?



BOOK #2
Torn to Pieces
(The Boys of DownCrash #2)

Trying to forget about the promises she was forced to make as a young, naive eighteen year old, Maggie creates a false persona that paints her as the girl who never says no...

However, once she lays eyes on the drummer of DownCrash, everything clicks. From his sexy lip ring to the way he stares at her from the stage, Tatum becomes everything Maggie has ever fantasized about. 

When trouble catches up to her in a parking garage after a DownCrash show, and Tatum shows up out of nowhere to protect her. For the first time in years, she is intimidated by a man's kindness and sexiness, and not by his temper and jealousy. As real feelings begin to grow Maggie is faced with her past and wonders if she'll ever be able to escape the promises she once made to keep the promises she wants to make right now.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Interview with CATHERINE CASTLE





Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Captured by the local Mexican drug lord after she barges into the middle of a drug deal, novice Sister Margaret Mary risks losing her life, her vocation, and her heart when she falls for undercover DEA agent Jed Bond who is imprisoned with her. Nuns shouldn’t look, talk, act, or kiss like Sister Margaret Mary. Jed knows she’s off limits, but his heart can’t help wanting this woman who’s been promised to God.


Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?
The Nun and the Narc is an inspirational romance. In inspirational romance the faith journey of the characters is just as important as the romance and the external problems the characters face. There are no sex scenes in inspirational romance. Holding hands, a hug, or a maybe kiss is all the physicality in these types of books. I also write sweet romance as Catherine Castle, but I’m not picky about the sub-genres within these two categories. I read and write eclectically. I have partials of an inspirational historical romance, a sweet contemporary romance, another suspense romance, and even a Biblical era novel on my computer waiting to be finished.



When did you start writing toward publication?
I was a published journalist, under my real name, before I started on the serious road to fiction writing. I’ve always loved writing and probably missed my true calling as a college student because I had tunnel-vision about the career I’d chosen. I wanted to be a singer back then.


Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?
I think every writer has at least one book stashed away somewhere in a drawer before they get published. I had a couple of play manuscripts I had coauthored with my husband as well as a couple of completed books in my computer when I wrote The Nun and the Narc. I don’t have an agent, so anytime anything goes out it is done by me.



What is your writing routine like?
Since selling The Nun and the Narc, it’s been a bit non-existent as I’ve been concentrating on marketing. In general, I think we all have to find what works best for us. I’m not a very disciplined writer unless I’m under a deadline. Then everything else comes to a screeching halt except for writing. I don’t usually set daily goals, but often set whole days or blocks of times aside for the task of writing. I probably do it this way because once I get in the zone I hate to stop. I’m like that with my gardening, too. It’s an I’ll-just-finish-one-more-flowerbed-then-I’ll-quit mentality. But four hours later I’m still out there saying the same thing. It drives my husband crazy when I say, “Be there in a minute,” and I don’t shut the computer off until hours later. Time flies when you’re having fun. LOL



What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?
Right now, most of my promo is through my blog and guest blogging. I will be doing a virtual book blog tour in the near future. Readers can follow me on that through my website. I’ll be posting where I will be each day. And, no, I don’t have any help, unless you count my husband, who helps cut my gardening chores in half by being day labor so I can get back to marketing ASAP.


Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?
For years I was the president of a local writing group, Queen City Writers, which has now become a monthly critique group. Currently, I belong to ACFW national and the regional ACFW Ohio group, RWA national and Ohio Valley Romance Writers of America (OVRWA). I joined RWA and OVRWA back in the 1990s, and through OVRWA I formed some wonderful friendships that have lasted nearly 20 years. Most of the writers I’ve met are willing to help other writers learn the ropes, and the email loops can be great information sources. So, yes, I think these organizations can be extremely beneficial.


What’s next for you?
The same thing that’s next for most debut (and multi-published) authors—get a handle on the marketing and write the next book. My biggest problem is that I have so many partial books in the fire, I’m having trouble deciding which way to go.



BOOK BLURB

Where novice Sister Margaret Mary goes, trouble follows. When she barges into a drug deal the local Mexican drug lord captures her. To escape she must depend on undercover DEA agent Jed Bond. Jed’s attitude toward her is exasperating, but when she finds herself inexplicable attracted to him he becomes more dangerous than the men who have captured them, because he is making her doubt her decision to take her final vows. Escape back to the nunnery is imperative, but life at the convent, if she can still take her final vows, will never be the same.


Nuns shouldn’t look, talk, act, or kiss like Sister Margaret Mary O’Connor—at least that’s what Jed Bond thinks. She hampers his escape plans with her compulsiveness and compassion and in the process makes Jed question his own beliefs. After years of walling up his emotions in an attempt to become the best agent possible, Sister Margaret is crumbling Jed’s defenses and opening his heart. To lure her away from the church would be unforgivable—to lose her unbearable.



A little bit about the author.

Catherine Castle has been writing all her life. Before beginning her career as a romance writer she worked part-time as a freelance writer. She has over 600 articles and photographs to her credit, under her real name, in the Christian and secular market. Besides writing, Catherine loves traveling with her husband, singing, and attending theatre. In the winter she loves to quilt and has a lot of UFOs (unfinished objects) in her sewing case. In the summer her favorite place to be is in her garden. She’s passionate about gardening and even won a “Best Hillside Garden” award from the local gardening club.

To see pictures of her garden, read her poems and blogs, connect with her, and follow her stop by her blog at http://catherinecastle1.wordpress.com or her author page on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/author/catherinecastle. She’d love to see you there.



Excerpt

Margaret inched forward, hoping to hear what they were saying. A mariachi band nearby blared out a tune, the polka-like melody destroying any hope of eavesdropping. The shriek of off-key brass sent chills up her spine. She covered her ears and moved closer to Rafael and the stranger.

After a couple of minutes of conversation, the man removed an envelope from his jacket and pulled out a handful of bills. He folded them in half and then slipped them into Rafael’s extended hand. With a furtive glance around, Rafael moved closer to the man, blocking Margaret’s direct view, and handed something to the stranger.

A wave of apprehension swept over Margaret. The chapulines she’d snacked on earlier that morning threatened to see the light of day.

A drug deal! Of all the things Rafael could do, this was the worst.

Esperanza had fought so hard to keep her son away from bad influences. Now he appeared to be involved in the very thing she’d hated most. Margaret imagined Esperanza banging on the gates of purgatory, trying to get out and rescue her son.

She hesitated for a moment, hearing Mother Superior’s admonishment. Stay out of trouble while you are in Mexico, Sister.

Silencing the nagging voice in her head, Margaret charged forward, protective instincts in full swing.

Stopping Rafael and talking to him about the dangers of drugs surely wouldn’t qualify as trouble. Bluntness, maybe, but not trouble. It was more like saving. Yes, that’s it. I’m saving him.

Margaret grabbed Rafael by the shirt. “I’ve been searching for you, young man.” She faced the stranger, giving him her best withering stare. “You should be ashamed of yourself.”

The man stuffed the plastic bag into his jacket pocket. “Who is this?”

“Some crazy gringa.” Rafael shrugged, hard, trying to escape her grasp.

The plastic bag contained something white. Heroin? Cocaine? Margaret tightened her hold and drew Rafael closer. She would save him whether he wanted to be saved or not.

“Get out of here,” Rafael snarled.

“What would your mother say if she saw this?”

Rafael’s expression darkened. “Leave my mother out of this!” He wrenched out of Margaret’s grip and spun around to face her. His expression morphed from anger to fear. “¡Madre de Dios!”

The man’s head jerked around. “Get down!” he shouted.

Rafael took off running down the street as the top row of pottery in the stand exploded like popcorn.

Margaret jumped at the loud noise and whirled around searching for the source. The man removed a gun from his jacket, swung around, and scanned the area.

Margaret’s knees buckled at the sight of the handgun. Her body tensed, her gaze frozen on his weapon. He fired off a couple of shots. Heart thumping like a jackhammer, she ran for cover behind the open car door. The window glass shattered as bullets whizzed over her head. She scrambled into the car and crouched on the floorboard. Another row of pottery shattered, sending fragments into the car like tiny projectile rockets. Sending up a quick prayer, she covered her head.

Slamming the door shut as he passed, the man leapt over the trunk. He jerked open the driver’s door then jumped behind the wheel. Jamming the car into gear, he roared out into the market street. Shoppers and vendors screamed, leaping out of the car’s path.

Margaret scrambled into the passenger seat. “Stop this car immediately!”

“Keep down,” he ordered, “unless you want to get shot.”

The rear window glass erupted into the car’s interior, punctuating his words. The man fired at the attackers through the shattered back window.

“Shot?” Her voice rose an octave. “Oh, dear Lord in Heaven, what have I gotten into?”

“Trouble, Lady.” He fired off another round. “Big trouble.”



How can my readers buy your book?

The Nun and the Narc is currently available as an eBook through Amazon. Here’s the link:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Nun-Narc-ebook/dp/B00CHU9DH2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1368652543&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Nun+and+the+Narc



You can find more information about Catherine Castle and her book, The Nun and the Narc by

visiting her website, http://catherinecastle1.wordpress.com, or visiting her Amazon author page at http://www.amazon.com/author/catherinecastle

or her blog at http://catherinecastle1.wordpress.com/blog/



A few quickies if you don’t mind!

1) Favorite kind of ice cream?
Chocolate

2) Pepsi or Coke? Coke zero

3) Mountains or Beach? Both. The beach in the winter and the mountains in the summer

4) Denim or Leather? Denim

5) If you could choose a favorite career, what would it be? Besides writing, it would be singing. I always wanted to be a professional singer.

6) What’s your favorite romantic thing your husband has done for you? Wow, this one is hard as he is a romantic and is always surprising me. Guess I’d have to say getting serenaded by the barbershop quartet on Valentine ’s Day at our favorite restaurant.

7) What’s your favorite time of day? I have no idea. Perhaps it’s late morning after I’m done weeding the garden and I’m sitting on the deck admiring the flowers. I do enjoy that quiet time.



Sarah,

Thanks for hosting me on your blog. It’s been great!

Catherine