Help me chose the right music for my Out of the Darkness book trailer and you’ll have a chance to win a free galley of the book. They’re both posted below. Once you’ve made your choice, just post a comment telling me which one you like best and leave me your email address so I can contact you. The drawing will take place Sunday. Good luck and thanks for your help!
Number One
Number Two
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
David Pereda Interview & Book Giveaway!
Today I have the honor of being a host in David Pereda’s virtual book tour. Please join me in welcoming David and be sure to post your comments. He will be giving away an autographed copy of Havana:Killing Castro to one randomly drawn commenter as well as to the tour host with the most comments, excluding David's and duplicates. Here’s his Bio:
David Pereda is an award-winning author who enjoys crafting political thrillers and mainstream novels. He has traveled extensively around the world and speaks several languages. Before devoting his time solely to writing and teaching college-level courses, David had a rich and successful international consulting career with global giant Booz Allen Hamilton, where he worked with the governments of Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, and Qatar, among others.
A member of MENSA, David is the regional director of the Florida Writers Association and the co-founder of AWE (Asheville Writing Enthusiasts). He loves sports and has won many prizes competing in track and show-jumping equestrian events. David lives with his family in Asheville, North Carolina.
[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer, David?
[David] When I was 7-8 years old. I started writing around 10. I was a voracious reader, even at that age, and I loved to read westerns. Zane Grey and Max Brand were my idols, so, naturally, the first novel I wrote was a western titled David Patterson, the Temerarious that my Uncle Antonio, God bless his soul, typed for me.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book, Havana: Killing Castro.
[David] With pleasure, Anne. The book has earned four awards already, including a Readers Favorite award. And the reviews, so far, have been excellent. It begins with a bang, literally.
An old fisherman is gunned down on a Mexican beach and prominent Miami surgeon Raymond Peters becomes the prime suspect. The dead fisherman is suspected to be Fidel Castro disguised by plastic surgery, which Peters had done clandestinely on a trip to Cuba two years earlier. You can read all about that surgery and Peters’s adventures and misadventures during that trip in the first book of the series, Havana: Top Secret. But is the body really that of the Cuban leader? In order to save his own life and protect his family, Peters must solve the murder, find the killers and retrieve a mysterious journal. And this has to be done while outwitting a sensual but ruthless assassin named Marcela, sent by Castro’s brother, Raul.
Here’s what some reviewers have to say about the book:
"The work is indeed a masterpiece of entertainment…” Gary Sorkin, Pacific Book Review
"The suspense grabs the reader from the beginning and holds it to the end…If you like a good mystery filled with espionage, you will enjoy this book." Readers Favorite
“David Pereda has done it again. In Havana: Killing Castro, he continues intriguing readers with the story begun in Havana: Top Secret.” The Laurel of Asheville
[Anne] Wow! Those are some nice reviews. And what a great cover. What inspired you to write the Havana series?
[David] The inspiration to write the Havana series I owe to my ex-wife, a successful and highly skilled plastic surgeon who allowed me to witness some of her surgeries. One day, as I observed her nimble hands undermine aging skin and chisel a bulbous appendage into a perfect nose, I said to myself, “Why don’t you write a thriller based on a face-disguising plastic surgery to Fidel Castro?”
[Anne] I know you’ve traveled extensively, and you know several different languages, what other research did you do for this series?
[David] I picked Castro because I was born in Cuba, and I knew quite a bit about him – either from the news or from people who had met him personally. I complemented my knowledge reading books and magazine articles on the Internet. I have many doctor friends who made sure the surgeries – there are two in the first book of the series – were correct. I research my books rigorously, either on the Internet or at the library or both. I take great pride in making sure everything you see in one of my books is right -- from the weapons Marcela uses to dispose of her victims to the cars they drive in Havana or even the Mexico City polluted smell. Regarding Chango and the Orishas and Santeria, I read several books on the subject, interviewed Santeros and surfed the Internet.
[Anne] Will there be another book in the Havana series, and if so can you give us a hint of what it’ll be about?
[David] There will definitely be another book in the Havana series, which I hope to have published as early as the spring of 2011. I’m already hard at work on it. Titled Twin Powers, it’s a dramatic departure from my previous books in the series. For starters, I’m switching the locale from Cuba to the Middle East and focusing the story on the identical twin girls born to Sonia and Raymond in Killing Castro – Stephanie and Sophia. One of the twins gets kidnapped, and Marcela, the assassin, and Peters collaborate in tracking down the kidnappers and bringing the twin back home. I’m really excited about the book -- and so are the people who have read the first couple of chapters.
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a pantzer?
[David] I’m a plotter, definitely. By the time I start writing, I have everything figured out. Of course, I change everything along the way as I write – but that’s the essence of the creative process: change.
[Anne] I read on your website that in addition to your teaching career you’re an outstanding athlete who has won awards in international equestrian events, and that you maintain records in track and field. When do you find time to write?
[David] I usually begin my day at 6 am and end it around midnight. Still, I find that there aren’t enough hours in the day for me to accomplish everything I set out to do. The truth is I’m constantly revising my list of priorities, and sometimes I have to delay or drop things from it. Last year, for instance, I had to drop out of the State track and field competition in Raleigh because of a scheduling conflict, and right now I’m two months behind in the writing of Twin Powers.
[Anne] I know what you mean about there not being enough hours in the day :-). If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you choose to be and why?
[David] Marcela. She’s fearless, beautiful and lethal. She doesn’t mind what she says or does, and she is the ultimate professional with a strict moral code. Maybe her politics are a little screwed up, but yours would be too if you had been raised in Cuba. As an unabashed heterosexual, I’d have a little problem getting into Marcela’s skin because she’s a woman – but, of all my characters, she’s the one closest to me.
[Anne] She sounds very interesting! What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[David] I read everything – fiction, non-fiction, the dictionary, Roget’s thesaurus -- but I prefer fiction. In recent years, I’ve been reading just about everything written by Harlan Coben, John Grisham, Jeffrey Archer, Daniel Silva, David Baldacci, Joseph Finder and Dan Brown.
[Anne] As a writing instructor, what do you tell your students are most important steps to becoming published?
[David] Learn to use the tools of writing well and forget about the publishing and marketing aspects until after you have written a good book. While a carpenter’s basic tools might be a hammer, nails and a saw, a writer has basic tools too. Narrative summary, description and dialogue are the basic tools that help writers build memorable stories. The difference in the quality and poignancy of those stories depends on how well, or how badly, writers use those tools – the craft or writing.
One problem with beginning writers is that they are often more concerned with publishing than with writing. The truth is that, in today’s marketplace, if you don’t have an excellent product you’ll never get published.
[Anne] How important is it to have an agent?
[David] Not important at all. It’s desirable but not required. In fact, it’s often easier to find a publisher for your book than an agent to represent you. I think of agents as indefinite and definite articles. Remember that definition, Anne? As you may recall “a” is used in a generic sense and “the” for the particular. I’m categorical when I say you don’t need an agent. What you do need is the agent that satisfies your needs. To do that, I suggest you prepare a list of your requirements before you start sending out queries.
[Anne] Well spoken, David! What other advice would you offer to any aspiring authors out there?
[David] Never give up. A college “friend” once told me that I’d never be a published author because English was my second language and advised me to quit writing. Good thing I didn’t heed his advice. I have published five novels and won six writing awards already. You want to know what happened to my friend, a budding writer of some promise himself? Nada.
You don’t have to settle for nada. Chase your dream. And never give up. The greatest achievers in history have been dreamers who never gave up.
[Anne] Good for you. And congratulations on that success! So where can we find you on the web?
[David] You can start at my website: www.davidpereda.com
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books?
www.amazon.com, www.davidpereda.com, www.eternalpress.ca, as well as selected bookstores around Asheville.
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[David] Thank you for having me on your blog, Anne. It’s been fun.
[Anne] It’s been a privilege, David, and I wish you even greater success. Okay friends start posting your comments for David. And be sure to leave some form of contact information so David can get hold of you if your name is drawn. And be sure to follow his tour for more chances to win. You can find the locations by clicking here. But don't click yet, I've added a blurb and excerpt and you don't wanna miss it. Enjoy!
When an old fisherman is gunned down on a Mexican beach, prominent Miami surgeon Raymond Peters becomes the prime suspect. The dead fisherman is believed to be Fidel Castro whom Dr. Peters had helped disguise through clandestine plastic surgery on a trip to Cuba two years earlier. But is the body really that of the Cuban leader? In order to save his own life, the beleaguered physician must solve the murder, find the killers and retrieve a mysterious journal. And this has to be done while outwitting a sensual but ruthless assassin named Marcela, sent by Castro’s brother Raul.
Excerpt:
“So what did you want to talk to me about, Raymond?” Pepe stretched on his chair to clink glasses and then took a long pull of his mojito, drinking with his pinkie finger straight up. Raymond shook his head in disbelief as he sipped from his own glass. He put his glass on the table as Pepe gazed at him. “You said it was important.”
“It is.”
“You know who killed Fidel?”
“You mean the fisherman shot dead in Mexico?”
“Yes.” Pepe drained the rest of his drink in one mighty gulp and stared at his empty glass.
“Ready for another, Raymond?”
“Not yet.”
“Mind if I have another?”
“Go right ahead.”
“Keep talking.” Pepe leaned forward to refill his glass from the pitcher on the table, settled back in his chair, and took another pull of his drink. “I can drink and listen at the same time. You know who killed the fisherman?”
“I think so.”
“And that’s the reason you’re here?”
“Not really, Pepe. I came to confirm information—and to talk to you in person. As you always say, you never know who’s listening on the phone. By the way, where is Raul?”
“He’s going to join us for dinner tonight. Drink up, Raymond. I’m already finishing my second, and you haven’t really started on your first.”
Raymond sipped his drink thoughtfully. “Remember what you said to me a couple of years ago in Miami?”
“I said many things to you in Miami, Raymond.”
Pepe drained his glass and served himself another. This time he didn’t ask for permission.
“True. I mean, do you remember how you convinced me to come to Cuba with you? You told me that story about us as kids and how you had saved my life?”
“Of course I remember.” Pepe gulped greedily from his third drink.
“Do you? Tell it to me again.”
Raymond laughed amiably. “The same old Pepe, testing me out.”
Pepe laughed too.
“Okay, I’ll tell you—so you’ll know I still remember that story. We were in the park, and I got in a fight with Marcelino. He pulled a knife on me and tripped me. He was about to plunge the knife into me when you knocked him out with a punch. I’d never seen someone hit with such force. Marcelino’s head hit the grass so hard he was out cold several minutes. We were so scared you had killed him, remember?”
“Of course I remember,” Pepe said.
Raymond rose slowly, glowering at Pepe.
“That’s not the story. In the real story, you saved me from drowning in the Almendares River—remember? You’re not Pepe Orozco. And you sure as hell are not Fidel Castro either.” He leaned forward and said in a sharp voice, watching the man’s face blanch, “Who are you?”
David Pereda is an award-winning author who enjoys crafting political thrillers and mainstream novels. He has traveled extensively around the world and speaks several languages. Before devoting his time solely to writing and teaching college-level courses, David had a rich and successful international consulting career with global giant Booz Allen Hamilton, where he worked with the governments of Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, and Qatar, among others.
A member of MENSA, David is the regional director of the Florida Writers Association and the co-founder of AWE (Asheville Writing Enthusiasts). He loves sports and has won many prizes competing in track and show-jumping equestrian events. David lives with his family in Asheville, North Carolina.
[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer, David?
[David] When I was 7-8 years old. I started writing around 10. I was a voracious reader, even at that age, and I loved to read westerns. Zane Grey and Max Brand were my idols, so, naturally, the first novel I wrote was a western titled David Patterson, the Temerarious that my Uncle Antonio, God bless his soul, typed for me.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book, Havana: Killing Castro.
[David] With pleasure, Anne. The book has earned four awards already, including a Readers Favorite award. And the reviews, so far, have been excellent. It begins with a bang, literally.
An old fisherman is gunned down on a Mexican beach and prominent Miami surgeon Raymond Peters becomes the prime suspect. The dead fisherman is suspected to be Fidel Castro disguised by plastic surgery, which Peters had done clandestinely on a trip to Cuba two years earlier. You can read all about that surgery and Peters’s adventures and misadventures during that trip in the first book of the series, Havana: Top Secret. But is the body really that of the Cuban leader? In order to save his own life and protect his family, Peters must solve the murder, find the killers and retrieve a mysterious journal. And this has to be done while outwitting a sensual but ruthless assassin named Marcela, sent by Castro’s brother, Raul.
Here’s what some reviewers have to say about the book:
"The work is indeed a masterpiece of entertainment…” Gary Sorkin, Pacific Book Review
"The suspense grabs the reader from the beginning and holds it to the end…If you like a good mystery filled with espionage, you will enjoy this book." Readers Favorite
“David Pereda has done it again. In Havana: Killing Castro, he continues intriguing readers with the story begun in Havana: Top Secret.” The Laurel of Asheville
[Anne] Wow! Those are some nice reviews. And what a great cover. What inspired you to write the Havana series?
[David] The inspiration to write the Havana series I owe to my ex-wife, a successful and highly skilled plastic surgeon who allowed me to witness some of her surgeries. One day, as I observed her nimble hands undermine aging skin and chisel a bulbous appendage into a perfect nose, I said to myself, “Why don’t you write a thriller based on a face-disguising plastic surgery to Fidel Castro?”
[Anne] I know you’ve traveled extensively, and you know several different languages, what other research did you do for this series?
[David] I picked Castro because I was born in Cuba, and I knew quite a bit about him – either from the news or from people who had met him personally. I complemented my knowledge reading books and magazine articles on the Internet. I have many doctor friends who made sure the surgeries – there are two in the first book of the series – were correct. I research my books rigorously, either on the Internet or at the library or both. I take great pride in making sure everything you see in one of my books is right -- from the weapons Marcela uses to dispose of her victims to the cars they drive in Havana or even the Mexico City polluted smell. Regarding Chango and the Orishas and Santeria, I read several books on the subject, interviewed Santeros and surfed the Internet.
[Anne] Will there be another book in the Havana series, and if so can you give us a hint of what it’ll be about?
[David] There will definitely be another book in the Havana series, which I hope to have published as early as the spring of 2011. I’m already hard at work on it. Titled Twin Powers, it’s a dramatic departure from my previous books in the series. For starters, I’m switching the locale from Cuba to the Middle East and focusing the story on the identical twin girls born to Sonia and Raymond in Killing Castro – Stephanie and Sophia. One of the twins gets kidnapped, and Marcela, the assassin, and Peters collaborate in tracking down the kidnappers and bringing the twin back home. I’m really excited about the book -- and so are the people who have read the first couple of chapters.
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a pantzer?
[David] I’m a plotter, definitely. By the time I start writing, I have everything figured out. Of course, I change everything along the way as I write – but that’s the essence of the creative process: change.
[Anne] I read on your website that in addition to your teaching career you’re an outstanding athlete who has won awards in international equestrian events, and that you maintain records in track and field. When do you find time to write?
[David] I usually begin my day at 6 am and end it around midnight. Still, I find that there aren’t enough hours in the day for me to accomplish everything I set out to do. The truth is I’m constantly revising my list of priorities, and sometimes I have to delay or drop things from it. Last year, for instance, I had to drop out of the State track and field competition in Raleigh because of a scheduling conflict, and right now I’m two months behind in the writing of Twin Powers.
[Anne] I know what you mean about there not being enough hours in the day :-). If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you choose to be and why?
[David] Marcela. She’s fearless, beautiful and lethal. She doesn’t mind what she says or does, and she is the ultimate professional with a strict moral code. Maybe her politics are a little screwed up, but yours would be too if you had been raised in Cuba. As an unabashed heterosexual, I’d have a little problem getting into Marcela’s skin because she’s a woman – but, of all my characters, she’s the one closest to me.
[Anne] She sounds very interesting! What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[David] I read everything – fiction, non-fiction, the dictionary, Roget’s thesaurus -- but I prefer fiction. In recent years, I’ve been reading just about everything written by Harlan Coben, John Grisham, Jeffrey Archer, Daniel Silva, David Baldacci, Joseph Finder and Dan Brown.
[Anne] As a writing instructor, what do you tell your students are most important steps to becoming published?
[David] Learn to use the tools of writing well and forget about the publishing and marketing aspects until after you have written a good book. While a carpenter’s basic tools might be a hammer, nails and a saw, a writer has basic tools too. Narrative summary, description and dialogue are the basic tools that help writers build memorable stories. The difference in the quality and poignancy of those stories depends on how well, or how badly, writers use those tools – the craft or writing.
One problem with beginning writers is that they are often more concerned with publishing than with writing. The truth is that, in today’s marketplace, if you don’t have an excellent product you’ll never get published.
[Anne] How important is it to have an agent?
[David] Not important at all. It’s desirable but not required. In fact, it’s often easier to find a publisher for your book than an agent to represent you. I think of agents as indefinite and definite articles. Remember that definition, Anne? As you may recall “a” is used in a generic sense and “the” for the particular. I’m categorical when I say you don’t need an agent. What you do need is the agent that satisfies your needs. To do that, I suggest you prepare a list of your requirements before you start sending out queries.
[Anne] Well spoken, David! What other advice would you offer to any aspiring authors out there?
[David] Never give up. A college “friend” once told me that I’d never be a published author because English was my second language and advised me to quit writing. Good thing I didn’t heed his advice. I have published five novels and won six writing awards already. You want to know what happened to my friend, a budding writer of some promise himself? Nada.
You don’t have to settle for nada. Chase your dream. And never give up. The greatest achievers in history have been dreamers who never gave up.
[Anne] Good for you. And congratulations on that success! So where can we find you on the web?
[David] You can start at my website: www.davidpereda.com
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books?
www.amazon.com, www.davidpereda.com, www.eternalpress.ca, as well as selected bookstores around Asheville.
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[David] Thank you for having me on your blog, Anne. It’s been fun.
[Anne] It’s been a privilege, David, and I wish you even greater success. Okay friends start posting your comments for David. And be sure to leave some form of contact information so David can get hold of you if your name is drawn. And be sure to follow his tour for more chances to win. You can find the locations by clicking here. But don't click yet, I've added a blurb and excerpt and you don't wanna miss it. Enjoy!
When an old fisherman is gunned down on a Mexican beach, prominent Miami surgeon Raymond Peters becomes the prime suspect. The dead fisherman is believed to be Fidel Castro whom Dr. Peters had helped disguise through clandestine plastic surgery on a trip to Cuba two years earlier. But is the body really that of the Cuban leader? In order to save his own life, the beleaguered physician must solve the murder, find the killers and retrieve a mysterious journal. And this has to be done while outwitting a sensual but ruthless assassin named Marcela, sent by Castro’s brother Raul.
Excerpt:
“So what did you want to talk to me about, Raymond?” Pepe stretched on his chair to clink glasses and then took a long pull of his mojito, drinking with his pinkie finger straight up. Raymond shook his head in disbelief as he sipped from his own glass. He put his glass on the table as Pepe gazed at him. “You said it was important.”
“It is.”
“You know who killed Fidel?”
“You mean the fisherman shot dead in Mexico?”
“Yes.” Pepe drained the rest of his drink in one mighty gulp and stared at his empty glass.
“Ready for another, Raymond?”
“Not yet.”
“Mind if I have another?”
“Go right ahead.”
“Keep talking.” Pepe leaned forward to refill his glass from the pitcher on the table, settled back in his chair, and took another pull of his drink. “I can drink and listen at the same time. You know who killed the fisherman?”
“I think so.”
“And that’s the reason you’re here?”
“Not really, Pepe. I came to confirm information—and to talk to you in person. As you always say, you never know who’s listening on the phone. By the way, where is Raul?”
“He’s going to join us for dinner tonight. Drink up, Raymond. I’m already finishing my second, and you haven’t really started on your first.”
Raymond sipped his drink thoughtfully. “Remember what you said to me a couple of years ago in Miami?”
“I said many things to you in Miami, Raymond.”
Pepe drained his glass and served himself another. This time he didn’t ask for permission.
“True. I mean, do you remember how you convinced me to come to Cuba with you? You told me that story about us as kids and how you had saved my life?”
“Of course I remember.” Pepe gulped greedily from his third drink.
“Do you? Tell it to me again.”
Raymond laughed amiably. “The same old Pepe, testing me out.”
Pepe laughed too.
“Okay, I’ll tell you—so you’ll know I still remember that story. We were in the park, and I got in a fight with Marcelino. He pulled a knife on me and tripped me. He was about to plunge the knife into me when you knocked him out with a punch. I’d never seen someone hit with such force. Marcelino’s head hit the grass so hard he was out cold several minutes. We were so scared you had killed him, remember?”
“Of course I remember,” Pepe said.
Raymond rose slowly, glowering at Pepe.
“That’s not the story. In the real story, you saved me from drowning in the Almendares River—remember? You’re not Pepe Orozco. And you sure as hell are not Fidel Castro either.” He leaned forward and said in a sharp voice, watching the man’s face blanch, “Who are you?”
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Another Awesome Review for Out of the Darkness
From Examiner.com. Here's a tibdit from it: Out of the Darkness is a perfect example of a story done right. You'll keep turning pages because you can't wait to find out who the villian really is and how the story will play out. Once you finish this book, you'll be searching for more from Anne Patrick, and you can find what you seek on her website. To purchase your copy of this amazing suspense thriller available May 10th, visit Champagne Books.
Please read the entire review here.
I want to thank Ginger Simpson for taking the time to review my novel and for her kind endorsement.
Please read the entire review here.
I want to thank Ginger Simpson for taking the time to review my novel and for her kind endorsement.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Author Interview - K. Dawn Byrd
Joining us today is K. Dawn Byrd. Let’s begin with her bio -
K. Dawn Byrd is an author of inspirational romance. She holds a masters degree in professional counseling from Liberty University that she believes gives her better insight into the minds, feelings and emotions of individuals, which helps her to better understand her characters and develop them more fully. Queen of Hearts, a WWII romantic suspense will release April 1 and Killing Time, a contemporary romantic suspense will release August 1, both with Desert Breeze Publishing. When not reading or writing, K. Dawn Byrd enjoys spending time with her husband of 14 years, walking their dogs beside a gorgeous lake near her home, and plotting the next story waiting to be told.
[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
[K. Dawn] I don't think I ever work up one day and said, "I want to be a writer." For me, it was more of a journaling experience. I thought that one day, I might want to write and I wrote down personal experiences that I might later use in writing. For example, I worked as a counselor in a regional jail for a while and jotted down some notes about those experiences such as the smell, sounds, sights, etc. Before I knew what had happened, I had fictional characters in my head wanting me to tell their story. Killing Time was born. It's actually the first book I wrote and will release from Desert Breeze Publishing in August.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.
[K. Dawn] Here's the blub from my publisher:
Daphne Dean is proud to be serving her country stateside during WWII as a reporter and an Office of Strategic Services operative. When the photograph she takes of the crowd at a murder scene places her on the mob's hit list, she's forced into hiding in a vacant mental asylum in the middle of nowhere with terrifying secrets of its own.
Daphne believed herself to still be in love with her ex-fiancée, Kenneth, until she spends several days locked away in the asylum with Vito, the mob boss' son. Can she put the terrifying events that occurred there behind her and allow herself to pursue a relationship with Vito? Or, will she return to Kenneth who has turned his back on his country by becoming a draft dodger and a black market racketeer? One thing's for sure, it won't matter if she can't escape the mental institution alive.
[Anne] What inspired you to write this story?
[K. Dawn] Queen of Hearts was my NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) project. I'd finished two romantic suspense books and wanted to try something a little different. I enjoyed writing a historical.
[Anne] How did you go about researching your book?
[K. Dawn] Actually, I've been a WWII buff for years and didn't have to do much research at all. Since the book was my NaNo project, I had only thirty days to write it. Because of this, I went into it with a pretty detailed plot and knew where I wanted to go with the project.
[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?
[K. Dawn] I'm currently finishing up the edits for Killing Time, my August release from Desert Breeze Publishing and finishing up three non-fiction projects. Designing Destiny, Lessons from the Open Road, and Witty Quotes for Readers and Writers will be available soon on Amazon.
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a panster?
[K. Dawn] I'm a plotter, but my characters normally take on a life of their own and take me down roads I never planned to travel. That's okay though because in many cases, they improve the story.
[Anne] If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you chose to be and why?
[K. Dawn] I would want to be Mindy McLaurin. She's the heroine in Killing Time and even though she's faced with insurmountable obstacles after being wrongly accused and incarcerated, her faith in the Lord remains strong.
[Anne] Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go? (Okay so maybe this isn’t very likely to happen but since I’m asking the questions…)
[K. Dawn] Hawaii. My husband has always wanted to go there.
[Anne] You’ve just been informed that your latest release was a NY Times bestseller and Hollywood wants to turn it into a movie. What actors would you choose to play your main characters?
[K. Dawn] Daphne- Isla Fisher; Vito- Lucas Black; Kenneth-Chance Crawford
[Anne] What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[K. Dawn] Romantic suspense are my favorite.
[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).
[K. Dawn] My Blackberry (my husband says I'm married to it), my netbook, and the internet.
[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?
[K. Dawn] Learn everything you can about the craft. I bought and studied dozens of books on writing before becoming published. It's hard out there. It seems like "everyone" is writing a book. I'm still studying and learning and hope I never stop.
[Anne] Where can we find you on the web?
[K. Dawn] If you Google my name, you'll come up with dozens of sites where I've blogged. My bog address is www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com. I give away several books per week there, most of them signed by the author.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your book(s)?
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-70/Queen-of-Hearts/Detail.bok
http://www.amazon.com/Queen-of-Hearts-ebook/dp/B003EV5T3K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1270176182&sr=1-2
K. Dawn Byrd is an author of inspirational romance. She holds a masters degree in professional counseling from Liberty University that she believes gives her better insight into the minds, feelings and emotions of individuals, which helps her to better understand her characters and develop them more fully. Queen of Hearts, a WWII romantic suspense will release April 1 and Killing Time, a contemporary romantic suspense will release August 1, both with Desert Breeze Publishing. When not reading or writing, K. Dawn Byrd enjoys spending time with her husband of 14 years, walking their dogs beside a gorgeous lake near her home, and plotting the next story waiting to be told.
[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
[K. Dawn] I don't think I ever work up one day and said, "I want to be a writer." For me, it was more of a journaling experience. I thought that one day, I might want to write and I wrote down personal experiences that I might later use in writing. For example, I worked as a counselor in a regional jail for a while and jotted down some notes about those experiences such as the smell, sounds, sights, etc. Before I knew what had happened, I had fictional characters in my head wanting me to tell their story. Killing Time was born. It's actually the first book I wrote and will release from Desert Breeze Publishing in August.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.
[K. Dawn] Here's the blub from my publisher:
Daphne Dean is proud to be serving her country stateside during WWII as a reporter and an Office of Strategic Services operative. When the photograph she takes of the crowd at a murder scene places her on the mob's hit list, she's forced into hiding in a vacant mental asylum in the middle of nowhere with terrifying secrets of its own.
Daphne believed herself to still be in love with her ex-fiancée, Kenneth, until she spends several days locked away in the asylum with Vito, the mob boss' son. Can she put the terrifying events that occurred there behind her and allow herself to pursue a relationship with Vito? Or, will she return to Kenneth who has turned his back on his country by becoming a draft dodger and a black market racketeer? One thing's for sure, it won't matter if she can't escape the mental institution alive.
[K. Dawn] Queen of Hearts was my NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) project. I'd finished two romantic suspense books and wanted to try something a little different. I enjoyed writing a historical.
[Anne] How did you go about researching your book?
[K. Dawn] Actually, I've been a WWII buff for years and didn't have to do much research at all. Since the book was my NaNo project, I had only thirty days to write it. Because of this, I went into it with a pretty detailed plot and knew where I wanted to go with the project.
[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?
[K. Dawn] I'm currently finishing up the edits for Killing Time, my August release from Desert Breeze Publishing and finishing up three non-fiction projects. Designing Destiny, Lessons from the Open Road, and Witty Quotes for Readers and Writers will be available soon on Amazon.
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a panster?
[K. Dawn] I'm a plotter, but my characters normally take on a life of their own and take me down roads I never planned to travel. That's okay though because in many cases, they improve the story.
[Anne] If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you chose to be and why?
[K. Dawn] I would want to be Mindy McLaurin. She's the heroine in Killing Time and even though she's faced with insurmountable obstacles after being wrongly accused and incarcerated, her faith in the Lord remains strong.
[Anne] Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go? (Okay so maybe this isn’t very likely to happen but since I’m asking the questions…)
[K. Dawn] Hawaii. My husband has always wanted to go there.
[Anne] You’ve just been informed that your latest release was a NY Times bestseller and Hollywood wants to turn it into a movie. What actors would you choose to play your main characters?
[K. Dawn] Daphne- Isla Fisher; Vito- Lucas Black; Kenneth-Chance Crawford
[Anne] What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[K. Dawn] Romantic suspense are my favorite.
[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).
[K. Dawn] My Blackberry (my husband says I'm married to it), my netbook, and the internet.
[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?
[K. Dawn] Learn everything you can about the craft. I bought and studied dozens of books on writing before becoming published. It's hard out there. It seems like "everyone" is writing a book. I'm still studying and learning and hope I never stop.
[Anne] Where can we find you on the web?
[K. Dawn] If you Google my name, you'll come up with dozens of sites where I've blogged. My bog address is www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com. I give away several books per week there, most of them signed by the author.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your book(s)?
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-70/Queen-of-Hearts/Detail.bok
http://www.amazon.com/Queen-of-Hearts-ebook/dp/B003EV5T3K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1270176182&sr=1-2
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Pre-Release 5 Star Review for Out of the Darkness!!!
Anne Patrick has done it again! She has delivered a story that keeps you glued from a running start to a nail-biting finish! Alex is an interesting character. She is so strong and self sufficient but doesn't have the one thing she wants most. Royce is a wonderful tortured hero. One who has a lot of past issues but still possessed a tenderness in his heart. They really fit together well and you felt the struggle each had in trying to accept their feelings for one another. I really enjoyed all the supporting characters as well. Anne allows you a glimpse into the mind of a serial killer which is kinda scary but interesting to see the twisted way they think. She keeps you guessing through the story who the killer really is and you don't find out until the end. I like how she works faith in God into the story without being preachy. The story is chock full of action, suspense and romance. I highly recommend Out of the Darkness! To read the whole review, click here.
Out of the Darkness is due to release in May from Champagne Books.
Thank you, Sherry!
In other news, I want to congratulate Martha Lawson. She was the winner of Betty's book Murder.Com. I really enjoyed having both Barri & Betty drop in last week and I do hope they'll come back for another visit sometime.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Betty Sullivan La Pierre Interview & Book Giveaway!
Today I’m thrilled to have a fellow ex-Okie joining me. I became acquainted with Betty through MySpace, and after reading about her Mystery Series I couldn’t wait to have her visit. But before we begin the interview here’s a little about her and her writing.
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Betty Sullivan La Pierre attended the Oklahoma College for Women and the University of Oklahoma, graduating with her BS degree in Speech Therapy with a Specialty in the Deaf. Once married, she moved to California with her husband. When her husband was killed in an automobile accident, she was left with two young boys to raise. She is now remarried and has had another son through that marriage. Ms. La Pierre has lived in the Silicon Valley (California) for many years. At one time, she owned a Mail Order Used Book business dealing mainly in signed and rare books, but phased it out because it took up too much of her writing time. She’s an avid reader, belongs to the Wednesday Writers’ Society, and periodically attends functions of other writing organizations.
She writes Mystery/Suspense/Thriller novels, which are published in digital format and print. Her Hawkman Mystery Series is developing quite a fan base. She’s also written two stand-alone mystery/thrillers and plans to continue writing. ‘BLACKOUT,’ Betty’s story about a bingo hall (of the Hawkman Series), ranked in the top ten of the P&E Reader’s Poll, and won the 2003 BLOODY DAGGER AWARD for best Mystery/Suspense. EuroReviews recently picked ‘THE DEADLY THORN’ (One of Betty’s stand alone thrillers) for their 2005 May Book of the Month. Betty Sullivan La Pierre’s work is a testament to how much she enjoys the challenge of plotting an exciting story.
[Anne] Thank you so much for joining me today, Betty. Let’s begin with how you got started in writing?
[Betty] Once I married and moved away from home, I’d write my parents long letters telling them all the events that had happened in my life. I would embellish the missiles to the point they’d stop whatever they were doing and read them. They told me I had a flare for writing and should consider it. It took awhile before I actually tried writing. I waited until my 3 boys were self sufficient before I gave it a whirl. I discovered I loved it, and began writing Mystery/Suspense...thus...the ‘Hawkman Series’ took form.
[Anne] How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Betty] I gave up on the big houses as no one seemed to be interested in my work. Being an unknown in the writing world definitely has its drawbacks. Then I discovered e-books on the web and sent in one of my stand alone Thrillers, ‘MURDER.COM’. It was taken by a company who later proved to be fraudulent. A very traumatic experience to go through for any writer. The authors who’d been accepted by this house were heartbroken when they discovered the monies they should have been receiving as royalties were going for the personal use of the publisher. It didn’t take long for me to gain my rights back and I started searching for another publisher. I soon found another who took the book, Murder.com and edited the first book of the ‘Hawkman Series’--’THE ENEMY STALKS’...He was a wonderful man and cared deeply about his authors, however, he had to work an eight hour job to support his family and couldn’t continue the company, so he had to give it up. I still keep in touch with him.
I again went on the search, as by this time there were several books in the series and it worried me that a publisher might not want to take me on. Luckily, I found SynergEbooks, run by Deb Staples. What a great publisher...she not only took me on, but has never refused any of my ongoing stories in the series. She works hard for her authors and has us on Fictionwise and numerous other sites that sell e-books.
[Anne] Please tell us about your latest book.
[Betty] My latest book is ‘SHADOWS IN THE NIGHT’. The setting is an Independent Senior living facility where a murder occurred. It was probably the hardest book I’ve ever written as far as keeping the tension throughout the story. It’s a little hard to have too much excitement where older people are concerned, but George and Maggie saved me by being very spunky ;-).
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[Anne] Where did you come up with the concept for your story?
[Betty] My Mother was needing to get out from under the stress of running a home with all the worries it involves. So we went touring homes that cater to seniors who are capable of taking care of their personal needs. We visited one several times and were very impressed. The place was beautiful and had activities geared to the older set with lots of socializing. Just up Mother’s alley. As I spoke to one of the directors about how the place was run, a story began forming in my mind. And as most writers know, the plot begins.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Betty] Once I have the setting, and the foundation of characters, they begin to take over and I follow their lead. Plotting seems to come naturally for me, I love doing it, so it usually comes into play as the story unfolds.
[Anne] In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Betty] Get your name out in every way you can. Book signings, interviews, blogs, have contest, carry flyers and business cards, put flyers in your bills as you send them out (after all it’s your stamp ;-), give talks, have fun with your books. Don’t be afraid to give a few away...Leave flyers in the doctor’s and dentist’s waiting rooms. Learn to make book trailers, most computers now have programs that are easy to learn. You have to keep at it. Readers have short memories and you don’t want them to forget who you are.
[Anne] Flyers in your bills….that’s a new one for me. I’ll have to borrow that idea :-). What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author?
[Betty] Both of these incidents have happened to me. We have a summer home in Northern California not far from a very, very small town. I was asked by a tea house in the town to have a book signing. I figured it would be a waste of my time...but accepted. Boy, was I surprised. The tea house was also very small, the place filled with people where you hardly had room to move. I spoke and had people ask questions and later sold over 25 books. I couldn’t believe it, and needless to say would accept another invitation.
Another incident concerning e-mails, was the note I received from a lady I met on MySpace. She wanted to buy a copy of each of my books, sent me a check for them all and I’ve kept in touch with her ever since. She loved my stories and has become quite a fan. Another woman, also from MySpace, from England, bought several of my books and paid the postage for me to ship them to her. These are very exciting events that happen to writers and you never forget them.
[Anne] How thrilling! So what do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first started writing?
[Betty] Oh, my, a zillion things...I’ve learned so much it’s hard to put my finger on any one item. The writing game is a learning process in itself, not to mention learning how to market. Many things you learn by trial and error. You read books on how to write, then you sort to fit your needs. Many times you’ll stumble, but you have to pick yourself up, brush off and start again. I’ve loved every minute of it, but I have to admit, the first time my book was critiqued I wanted to cry at all the red marks. I couldn’t believe someone found that much wrong with my baby. Since, I’ve grown broad shoulders and have learned to use the criticisms for bettering my work.
[Anne] Now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Betty] I love to fish. At our summer home, we’re situated on the bank of Copco Lake which is fed by the Klamath River. (The ‘Hawkman Series’ was born here.) I love to fish off the dock under a big umbrella. My bathroom is up the gangplank and I can have a cocktail while throwing in my hook. I’ve caught every type of fish the lake has..(never could understand why men think they have to have different gear for different fish?) I’ve caught all varieties on my one rod and reel!!
[Anne] LOL…I can just see you sitting there with your cocktail in one hand and your rod in the other. What a great way to spend a day. Okay, what snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Betty] I’m not a snacker, but every once in awhile I’ll bring in a handful of mixed nuts and munch a bit. A glass of water is always at my station. I’m a water drinker..
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Betty] Oh, my gosh, my Computer....I take it with me everywhere I go. I’d also miss a radio, I love listening to talk shows. I’d also miss my hubby...he makes my dinner every night...(I know, I’m really spoiled...;-)
[Anne] What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Betty] Never give up. Regardless of how many times you get turned down. Somewhere out there, someone will like your work.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books, Betty? And do you have a website we can visit?
[Betty] For e-books go to: http://synergebooks.com/ebooks_mystery1.html and scroll through the Mystery section and you’ll find my books scattered throughout the pages.
Also at Fictionwise, Amazon, or you can also purchase autographed print books on my personal website using your credit card or PayPal. My prices are much cheaper than Amazon. Go to:
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Betty] Yes. I want to thank you for being so patient with me. It’s been hectic these past few weeks getting my Mother moved out of her old home and into her new one, then trying to set up a date for the interview. You’ve been very kind allowing me to reschedule so many times, and I want you to know how much I appreciate it. Thank you.
[Anne] You’re more than welcome, Betty. It’s been a thrill having you visit.
Friends, Betty is giving away a free autographed print book of either SHADOWS IN THE NIGHT or MURDER.COM (your choice) to one lucky commenter. Please note if you live outside of the US you’ll receive a free download instead of a print book. The drawing will take place Saturday at noon. Oh and please be sure to leave your email address so she can contact you.
Now here is her book trailer for Shadows in the Night. Enjoy and Good Luck Everyone!
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Betty Sullivan La Pierre attended the Oklahoma College for Women and the University of Oklahoma, graduating with her BS degree in Speech Therapy with a Specialty in the Deaf. Once married, she moved to California with her husband. When her husband was killed in an automobile accident, she was left with two young boys to raise. She is now remarried and has had another son through that marriage. Ms. La Pierre has lived in the Silicon Valley (California) for many years. At one time, she owned a Mail Order Used Book business dealing mainly in signed and rare books, but phased it out because it took up too much of her writing time. She’s an avid reader, belongs to the Wednesday Writers’ Society, and periodically attends functions of other writing organizations.
She writes Mystery/Suspense/Thriller novels, which are published in digital format and print. Her Hawkman Mystery Series is developing quite a fan base. She’s also written two stand-alone mystery/thrillers and plans to continue writing. ‘BLACKOUT,’ Betty’s story about a bingo hall (of the Hawkman Series), ranked in the top ten of the P&E Reader’s Poll, and won the 2003 BLOODY DAGGER AWARD for best Mystery/Suspense. EuroReviews recently picked ‘THE DEADLY THORN’ (One of Betty’s stand alone thrillers) for their 2005 May Book of the Month. Betty Sullivan La Pierre’s work is a testament to how much she enjoys the challenge of plotting an exciting story.
[Anne] Thank you so much for joining me today, Betty. Let’s begin with how you got started in writing?
[Betty] Once I married and moved away from home, I’d write my parents long letters telling them all the events that had happened in my life. I would embellish the missiles to the point they’d stop whatever they were doing and read them. They told me I had a flare for writing and should consider it. It took awhile before I actually tried writing. I waited until my 3 boys were self sufficient before I gave it a whirl. I discovered I loved it, and began writing Mystery/Suspense...thus...the ‘Hawkman Series’ took form.
[Anne] How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Betty] I gave up on the big houses as no one seemed to be interested in my work. Being an unknown in the writing world definitely has its drawbacks. Then I discovered e-books on the web and sent in one of my stand alone Thrillers, ‘MURDER.COM’. It was taken by a company who later proved to be fraudulent. A very traumatic experience to go through for any writer. The authors who’d been accepted by this house were heartbroken when they discovered the monies they should have been receiving as royalties were going for the personal use of the publisher. It didn’t take long for me to gain my rights back and I started searching for another publisher. I soon found another who took the book, Murder.com and edited the first book of the ‘Hawkman Series’--’THE ENEMY STALKS’...He was a wonderful man and cared deeply about his authors, however, he had to work an eight hour job to support his family and couldn’t continue the company, so he had to give it up. I still keep in touch with him.
I again went on the search, as by this time there were several books in the series and it worried me that a publisher might not want to take me on. Luckily, I found SynergEbooks, run by Deb Staples. What a great publisher...she not only took me on, but has never refused any of my ongoing stories in the series. She works hard for her authors and has us on Fictionwise and numerous other sites that sell e-books.
[Anne] Please tell us about your latest book.
[Betty] My latest book is ‘SHADOWS IN THE NIGHT’. The setting is an Independent Senior living facility where a murder occurred. It was probably the hardest book I’ve ever written as far as keeping the tension throughout the story. It’s a little hard to have too much excitement where older people are concerned, but George and Maggie saved me by being very spunky ;-).
.jpg)
[Anne] Where did you come up with the concept for your story?
[Betty] My Mother was needing to get out from under the stress of running a home with all the worries it involves. So we went touring homes that cater to seniors who are capable of taking care of their personal needs. We visited one several times and were very impressed. The place was beautiful and had activities geared to the older set with lots of socializing. Just up Mother’s alley. As I spoke to one of the directors about how the place was run, a story began forming in my mind. And as most writers know, the plot begins.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Betty] Once I have the setting, and the foundation of characters, they begin to take over and I follow their lead. Plotting seems to come naturally for me, I love doing it, so it usually comes into play as the story unfolds.
[Anne] In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Betty] Get your name out in every way you can. Book signings, interviews, blogs, have contest, carry flyers and business cards, put flyers in your bills as you send them out (after all it’s your stamp ;-), give talks, have fun with your books. Don’t be afraid to give a few away...Leave flyers in the doctor’s and dentist’s waiting rooms. Learn to make book trailers, most computers now have programs that are easy to learn. You have to keep at it. Readers have short memories and you don’t want them to forget who you are.
[Anne] Flyers in your bills….that’s a new one for me. I’ll have to borrow that idea :-). What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author?
[Betty] Both of these incidents have happened to me. We have a summer home in Northern California not far from a very, very small town. I was asked by a tea house in the town to have a book signing. I figured it would be a waste of my time...but accepted. Boy, was I surprised. The tea house was also very small, the place filled with people where you hardly had room to move. I spoke and had people ask questions and later sold over 25 books. I couldn’t believe it, and needless to say would accept another invitation.
Another incident concerning e-mails, was the note I received from a lady I met on MySpace. She wanted to buy a copy of each of my books, sent me a check for them all and I’ve kept in touch with her ever since. She loved my stories and has become quite a fan. Another woman, also from MySpace, from England, bought several of my books and paid the postage for me to ship them to her. These are very exciting events that happen to writers and you never forget them.
[Anne] How thrilling! So what do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first started writing?
[Betty] Oh, my, a zillion things...I’ve learned so much it’s hard to put my finger on any one item. The writing game is a learning process in itself, not to mention learning how to market. Many things you learn by trial and error. You read books on how to write, then you sort to fit your needs. Many times you’ll stumble, but you have to pick yourself up, brush off and start again. I’ve loved every minute of it, but I have to admit, the first time my book was critiqued I wanted to cry at all the red marks. I couldn’t believe someone found that much wrong with my baby. Since, I’ve grown broad shoulders and have learned to use the criticisms for bettering my work.
[Anne] Now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Betty] I love to fish. At our summer home, we’re situated on the bank of Copco Lake which is fed by the Klamath River. (The ‘Hawkman Series’ was born here.) I love to fish off the dock under a big umbrella. My bathroom is up the gangplank and I can have a cocktail while throwing in my hook. I’ve caught every type of fish the lake has..(never could understand why men think they have to have different gear for different fish?) I’ve caught all varieties on my one rod and reel!!
[Anne] LOL…I can just see you sitting there with your cocktail in one hand and your rod in the other. What a great way to spend a day. Okay, what snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Betty] I’m not a snacker, but every once in awhile I’ll bring in a handful of mixed nuts and munch a bit. A glass of water is always at my station. I’m a water drinker..
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Betty] Oh, my gosh, my Computer....I take it with me everywhere I go. I’d also miss a radio, I love listening to talk shows. I’d also miss my hubby...he makes my dinner every night...(I know, I’m really spoiled...;-)
[Anne] What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Betty] Never give up. Regardless of how many times you get turned down. Somewhere out there, someone will like your work.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books, Betty? And do you have a website we can visit?
[Betty] For e-books go to: http://synergebooks.com/ebooks_mystery1.html and scroll through the Mystery section and you’ll find my books scattered throughout the pages.
Also at Fictionwise, Amazon, or you can also purchase autographed print books on my personal website using your credit card or PayPal. My prices are much cheaper than Amazon. Go to:
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Betty] Yes. I want to thank you for being so patient with me. It’s been hectic these past few weeks getting my Mother moved out of her old home and into her new one, then trying to set up a date for the interview. You’ve been very kind allowing me to reschedule so many times, and I want you to know how much I appreciate it. Thank you.
[Anne] You’re more than welcome, Betty. It’s been a thrill having you visit.
Friends, Betty is giving away a free autographed print book of either SHADOWS IN THE NIGHT or MURDER.COM (your choice) to one lucky commenter. Please note if you live outside of the US you’ll receive a free download instead of a print book. The drawing will take place Saturday at noon. Oh and please be sure to leave your email address so she can contact you.
Now here is her book trailer for Shadows in the Night. Enjoy and Good Luck Everyone!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Author Interview with Barri Bryan
Visiting us today is romance author, Barri Bryan.
Barri’s Bio: Barri Bryan is a pen name for Billie Houston. I acquired the pseudonym at the behest of my adult children when they discovered a steamy excerpt from one of my romances at the web site of a publisher.
I am a former high school English teacher. I like George Strait's music, old movies, and Earl Grey tea. My hobbies are reading, quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, taking long walks, and growing house plants and herbs. I'm a four-time EPPIE winner and a published author with over twenty novels, four books of poetry, numerous essays, several short stories, and one non-fiction how-to-write to my credit. I have been seriously pursuing a writing career since 1990. My first romance was published in 1998. I write the kind of stories I enjoy reading --- romantic tales about relationships; stories that probe feelings and explore emotions. The plots revolve around ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances and faced with difficult decisions.
[Anne] I’m’ thrilled you could join us today, Barri. Congrats on the Eppies. Wow! That is awesome. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
[Barri] I have been writing poetry since I was a child. My desire to write and publish romances came after I'd retired from teaching. I had been reading romances since I was in junior high school. I decided it was time I tried writing one.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.
[Barri] My latest book is titled Search for Paradise. It's the story of a forty-six year old woman who has just suffered through the trauma of a nasty divorce and estrangement from her two adult children. Financial difficulties force her and her mother to return to Paradise Ranch, the homestead they left forty years ago. They have scarcely set foot in the depilated old ranch house when their next-door neighbor, Hank Sinclair, arrives to announce that he has prior claim on Paradise. Kate is forced to enter into a business arrangement with this handsome bachelor and soon finds herself falling in love with him despite the fact that he has made it plain that he wants no lasting relationship.
[Anne] What inspired you to write this story?
[Barri} My grandmother was the inspiration for Search for Paradise. Since I was I child I'd heard stories about how that, after her husband died in 1918, she moved with her four children from her comfortable home and her family in Central Texas to a wind-swept desolate stretch of land near the Texas New Mexico border where she didn't know a soul.
[Anne] How did you go about researching your book?
[Barri] Since the time of my story is now, I didn't have to do too much research. I did have to research some about ranching.
[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?
[Barri] I'm beginning to outline a story set in the 1930's during the Great Depression,
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a panster?
[Barri] I'm definitely a plotter. I make an outline and do some research before I ever begin my actual story.
[Anne] If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you chose to be and why?
[Barri] I think I'd choose to be Kate McClure in Search for Paradise. She's a mature woman (46). She has learned for experience the importance of family and the value of true love. She has a zest for living and the spirit to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
[Anne] Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go? (Okay so maybe this isn’t very likely to happen but since I’m asking the questions…)
[Barri] I don't even have to think about this one. I've always wanted to visit the Greek Islands, especially Crete, Lesbos, and Rhodes.
[Anne] Oooh nice choice! Okay, now you’ve just been informed that your latest release was a NY Times bestseller and Hollywood wants to turn it into a movie. What actors would you choose to play your main characters?
[Barri] After I came down to earth again, I'd choose Reece Witherspoon to play Kate McClure. She'd have to consent to having her blonde locks dyed red. Sam Elliot would be a perfect Hank Sinclair.
[Anne] Mumm Sam Elliot :-). Perfect choice! So, what type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[Barri] I like contemporary and historical romances. I read a lot of poetry. I enjoy mysteries and I have recently been exploring paranormal and time-travel romances. I also enjoy non-fiction books about how to improve writing skills.
[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).
[Barri] Three things I can't live without are my morning cup of tea, good books, and country music.
[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?
[Barri] Decide where your book is begging to go and then take it there. Let it be true to your perception of reality and reflect your originality and creativity.
[Anne] Good advice, Barri! Where can we find you on the web?
[Barri] http://barribryan.com/
[Anne] Where can we purchase your book(s)?
[Barri] You can purchase Search for Paradise at: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-67/Search-for-Paradise/Detail.bok The Cupid Dairies at: http://www.classicromancerevival.com/the-cupid-diaries.html
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Barri] I've had a lovely time visiting with you. Thank you for inviting me.
[Anne] I’m glad you were able to drop by. I’ve enjoyed having you, Barri!
Barri’s Bio: Barri Bryan is a pen name for Billie Houston. I acquired the pseudonym at the behest of my adult children when they discovered a steamy excerpt from one of my romances at the web site of a publisher.
I am a former high school English teacher. I like George Strait's music, old movies, and Earl Grey tea. My hobbies are reading, quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, taking long walks, and growing house plants and herbs. I'm a four-time EPPIE winner and a published author with over twenty novels, four books of poetry, numerous essays, several short stories, and one non-fiction how-to-write to my credit. I have been seriously pursuing a writing career since 1990. My first romance was published in 1998. I write the kind of stories I enjoy reading --- romantic tales about relationships; stories that probe feelings and explore emotions. The plots revolve around ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances and faced with difficult decisions.
[Anne] I’m’ thrilled you could join us today, Barri. Congrats on the Eppies. Wow! That is awesome. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
[Barri] I have been writing poetry since I was a child. My desire to write and publish romances came after I'd retired from teaching. I had been reading romances since I was in junior high school. I decided it was time I tried writing one.
[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.
[Barri] My latest book is titled Search for Paradise. It's the story of a forty-six year old woman who has just suffered through the trauma of a nasty divorce and estrangement from her two adult children. Financial difficulties force her and her mother to return to Paradise Ranch, the homestead they left forty years ago. They have scarcely set foot in the depilated old ranch house when their next-door neighbor, Hank Sinclair, arrives to announce that he has prior claim on Paradise. Kate is forced to enter into a business arrangement with this handsome bachelor and soon finds herself falling in love with him despite the fact that he has made it plain that he wants no lasting relationship.
[Anne] What inspired you to write this story?
[Barri} My grandmother was the inspiration for Search for Paradise. Since I was I child I'd heard stories about how that, after her husband died in 1918, she moved with her four children from her comfortable home and her family in Central Texas to a wind-swept desolate stretch of land near the Texas New Mexico border where she didn't know a soul.
[Anne] How did you go about researching your book?
[Barri] Since the time of my story is now, I didn't have to do too much research. I did have to research some about ranching.
[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?
[Barri] I'm beginning to outline a story set in the 1930's during the Great Depression,
[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a panster?
[Barri] I'm definitely a plotter. I make an outline and do some research before I ever begin my actual story.
[Anne] If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you chose to be and why?
[Barri] I think I'd choose to be Kate McClure in Search for Paradise. She's a mature woman (46). She has learned for experience the importance of family and the value of true love. She has a zest for living and the spirit to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
[Anne] Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go? (Okay so maybe this isn’t very likely to happen but since I’m asking the questions…)
[Barri] I don't even have to think about this one. I've always wanted to visit the Greek Islands, especially Crete, Lesbos, and Rhodes.
[Anne] Oooh nice choice! Okay, now you’ve just been informed that your latest release was a NY Times bestseller and Hollywood wants to turn it into a movie. What actors would you choose to play your main characters?
[Barri] After I came down to earth again, I'd choose Reece Witherspoon to play Kate McClure. She'd have to consent to having her blonde locks dyed red. Sam Elliot would be a perfect Hank Sinclair.
[Anne] Mumm Sam Elliot :-). Perfect choice! So, what type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?
[Barri] I like contemporary and historical romances. I read a lot of poetry. I enjoy mysteries and I have recently been exploring paranormal and time-travel romances. I also enjoy non-fiction books about how to improve writing skills.
[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).
[Barri] Three things I can't live without are my morning cup of tea, good books, and country music.
[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?
[Barri] Decide where your book is begging to go and then take it there. Let it be true to your perception of reality and reflect your originality and creativity.
[Anne] Good advice, Barri! Where can we find you on the web?
[Barri] http://barribryan.com/
[Anne] Where can we purchase your book(s)?
[Barri] You can purchase Search for Paradise at: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-67/Search-for-Paradise/Detail.bok The Cupid Dairies at: http://www.classicromancerevival.com/the-cupid-diaries.html
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Barri] I've had a lovely time visiting with you. Thank you for inviting me.
[Anne] I’m glad you were able to drop by. I’ve enjoyed having you, Barri!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
BFF Blog Award
Thank you Shawna Williams at http://shawnawilliams-oldsmobile.blogspot.com/ for this lovely blog award!
I'm passing on this award to the following blogs.
Miss Mae at http://missmaesite.blogspot.com/
Martha at http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/
Susan Whitfield at http://susanwhitfield.blogspot.com/
Cathy Bryant at http://wordvessel.blogspot.com/
Danielle Thorne at http://thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com/
Chelle Cordero at http://livingbreathingwriting.blogspot.com/
Joyce DiPastena at http://jdp-news.blogspot.com/
E.A. West at http://thewestcorner.blogspot.com/
Michelle Ashman Bell at http://www.micheleabell.blogspot.com/.
Gail Pallotta at http://www.gailpallotta.blogspot.com/
I also want to thank Cathy Bryant for another Sunshine Award!
I'm passing on this award to the following blogs.
Miss Mae at http://missmaesite.blogspot.com/
Martha at http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/
Susan Whitfield at http://susanwhitfield.blogspot.com/
Cathy Bryant at http://wordvessel.blogspot.com/
Danielle Thorne at http://thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com/
Chelle Cordero at http://livingbreathingwriting.blogspot.com/
Joyce DiPastena at http://jdp-news.blogspot.com/
E.A. West at http://thewestcorner.blogspot.com/
Michelle Ashman Bell at http://www.micheleabell.blogspot.com/.
Gail Pallotta at http://www.gailpallotta.blogspot.com/
I also want to thank Cathy Bryant for another Sunshine Award!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Robin Caroll Interview
Author Bio: Born and raised in Louisiana, Robin Caroll is a Southern through and through. Her passion has always been to tell stories to entertain others. She is the author of eleven romantic suspense novels. Robin’s books have placed/finaled in such contests as Bookseller’s Best, Book of the Year, and Reviewer’s Choice Award. When she isn’t writing, Robin spends time with her husband of twenty years, her three beautiful daughters, and their four character-filled pets at home—in the South, where else? An avid reader herself, Robin loves hearing from and chatting with other readers. Although her favorite genre to read is mystery/suspense, of course, she’ll read just about any good story. Except historicals!
[Anne] Thank so much for joining us today, Robin. How did you get started in writing? How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Robin] My mother would tell you I was writing out plays and stories from the age of 6 or 7. I’ve always written in one form or another. The best thing I ever did way back when I decided I wanted to write Christian fiction for publication was join ACFW. I received my first contract in 2006.
[Anne] Your new release, Deliver Us From Evil, sounds like an interesting read. Will you tell us a little about it?
[Robin] A beautiful yet tough woman working in a beautiful yet tough setting, Brannon Callahan is a search and rescue helicopter pilot for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Strong faith and a decorated history of service have kept her one step ahead of on-the-job dangers, but there’s no precedent for what’s about to happen. After a blizzard takes down a small plane carrying U.S. Marshal Roark Holland (already haunted by a recent tragedy), Brannon must save him in more ways than one and safeguard the donor heart he’s transporting to a government witness on the edge of death. Otherwise the largest child trafficking ring in history—with shocking links from Thailand to Tennessee—will slip further away into darkness along the Appalachian Trail.
[Anne] Sounds great! Where did you come up with the concept for it?
[Robin] I watched a television special on child trafficking with my husband. As a mother of three daughters, I couldn’t stop the ache in my heart long after the show was over. I couldn’t get the image of these poor girls’ faces out of my mind. The horrors these children endure in their own poverty-stricken country is horrible enough, but to be brought to America and be further exploited and abused is appalling. When my outrage settled deep inside me, I knew I had to write a story about this most serious issue.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Robin] LOL…I’m not a big plotter. I normally know the ending, whodunit and why, and I have some definite scenes that I put on index cards and post-it notes, but that’s about it. I let the story take on itself, letting the characters come alive.
[Anne] I’m with you there. It’s so much more exciting that way. In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Robin] I believe the best advertising is word of mouth…however, we must first get people to read the book in order to spread the word. Every author has a different experience in how to promote, and some work great for them, but not so much for another. I think a lot of it is trial and error, but in this day and age with the economy as it is, to think authors don’t have to promote is delusional.
[Anne] What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author (for example: an awesome book signing or that one email you received from a reader that really made your day)?
[Robin] Hands down, response from readers. I had one that touched me deeply in that this person was spiritually moved. That’s what it’s all about!
[Anne] Indeed it is! Okay, now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Robin] I scrapbook…LOVE it.
[Anne] What snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Robin] Tom’s Hot Fries and Dove dark chocolates with almonds and always Dr. Pepper.
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Robin] I’m assuming I have nothing with me? Okay, I would miss my Bible, but I think the Holy Spirit would constantly bring Scripture to my mind to soothe me, so I won’t say that. My family…my friends…and my computer! LOL
[Anne] What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Robin] Don’t give up, but don’t rush it either. Learn the craft, study, hone your skill.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books?
[Robin] Everywhere! Barnes & Noble, Amazon, LifeWay, Christian Book, etc.
[Anne] And do you have a website we can visit?
[Robin] www.robincaroll.com
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Robin] This has been fun. Thank you for letting me drop in to visit.
[Anne] Glad to have you! Friends, Robin will be giving away a copy of her book to one lucky person who visits her website and signs up for her newsletter. The drawing will take place at the end of the month.
[Anne] Thank so much for joining us today, Robin. How did you get started in writing? How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Robin] My mother would tell you I was writing out plays and stories from the age of 6 or 7. I’ve always written in one form or another. The best thing I ever did way back when I decided I wanted to write Christian fiction for publication was join ACFW. I received my first contract in 2006.
[Anne] Your new release, Deliver Us From Evil, sounds like an interesting read. Will you tell us a little about it?
[Robin] A beautiful yet tough woman working in a beautiful yet tough setting, Brannon Callahan is a search and rescue helicopter pilot for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Strong faith and a decorated history of service have kept her one step ahead of on-the-job dangers, but there’s no precedent for what’s about to happen. After a blizzard takes down a small plane carrying U.S. Marshal Roark Holland (already haunted by a recent tragedy), Brannon must save him in more ways than one and safeguard the donor heart he’s transporting to a government witness on the edge of death. Otherwise the largest child trafficking ring in history—with shocking links from Thailand to Tennessee—will slip further away into darkness along the Appalachian Trail.
[Robin] I watched a television special on child trafficking with my husband. As a mother of three daughters, I couldn’t stop the ache in my heart long after the show was over. I couldn’t get the image of these poor girls’ faces out of my mind. The horrors these children endure in their own poverty-stricken country is horrible enough, but to be brought to America and be further exploited and abused is appalling. When my outrage settled deep inside me, I knew I had to write a story about this most serious issue.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Robin] LOL…I’m not a big plotter. I normally know the ending, whodunit and why, and I have some definite scenes that I put on index cards and post-it notes, but that’s about it. I let the story take on itself, letting the characters come alive.
[Anne] I’m with you there. It’s so much more exciting that way. In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Robin] I believe the best advertising is word of mouth…however, we must first get people to read the book in order to spread the word. Every author has a different experience in how to promote, and some work great for them, but not so much for another. I think a lot of it is trial and error, but in this day and age with the economy as it is, to think authors don’t have to promote is delusional.
[Anne] What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author (for example: an awesome book signing or that one email you received from a reader that really made your day)?
[Robin] Hands down, response from readers. I had one that touched me deeply in that this person was spiritually moved. That’s what it’s all about!
[Anne] Indeed it is! Okay, now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Robin] I scrapbook…LOVE it.
[Anne] What snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Robin] Tom’s Hot Fries and Dove dark chocolates with almonds and always Dr. Pepper.
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Robin] I’m assuming I have nothing with me? Okay, I would miss my Bible, but I think the Holy Spirit would constantly bring Scripture to my mind to soothe me, so I won’t say that. My family…my friends…and my computer! LOL
[Anne] What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Robin] Don’t give up, but don’t rush it either. Learn the craft, study, hone your skill.
[Anne] Where can we purchase your books?
[Robin] Everywhere! Barnes & Noble, Amazon, LifeWay, Christian Book, etc.
[Anne] And do you have a website we can visit?
[Robin] www.robincaroll.com
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Robin] This has been fun. Thank you for letting me drop in to visit.
[Anne] Glad to have you! Friends, Robin will be giving away a copy of her book to one lucky person who visits her website and signs up for her newsletter. The drawing will take place at the end of the month.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Author Michele Ashman Bell Interview
Please join me in welcoming author, Michele Ashman Bell, who has penned over twenty books so far, ranging from romance to children’s books. Michele, I’m thrilled you’ve joined us today and I’m really looking forward to learning more about you.
[Anne] Why don’t we begin with how you got started in writing? How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Michele] My interest in writing stemmed from my love of books and reading. I distinctly remember being in third grade and having my teacher read, “My Father’s Dragon” to us. That book tapped into my imagination and created magic for me. My love affair with books grew with each passing year. When I was twenty-six I read a short story in Good Housekeeping magazine that I thought was terrible. I exclaimed out loud, “I could write a better story than that!” and that became a challenge to myself to see if I really could. It took ten years to finally get published. I first started with the national romance market, but wasn’t comfortable with the content most publishers wanted, so I jumped to YA, then children’s, then juvenile fiction. All with no luck. Finally, I discovered the inspirational market and the rest, they say, is history. By the way, I kept every rejection letter/post card (somewhere around 65) I ever received and have them in a scrapbook.
[Anne] I don’t have my rejections in a scrapbook yet, but I have them in a large file. You have a new release. Will you tell us about it?
[Michele] My latest book, released on March 16, 2010, is a YA romance. It’s a “riches to rags” type of story. It’s the story of Kenzie Williams who has grown up in a wealthy family, in an affluent neighborhood in New York, and comes home one day to find out that her father has declared bankruptcy and has lost everything. Not only that, her parents have decided to split up. While they sort through their problems they send her to live with her aunt and uncle in Paris . . . Idaho! Kenzie’s so embarrassed she tells her friends she’s going to Paris, but doesn’t tell them it’s in Idaho. The transition is anything but easy and Kenzie feels like her life has been destroyed. But slowly, over the summer, she learns valuable lessons about what really is important. She also meets Adam White, a mysterious young man who captures her heart.
[Anne] Hey I like your heroine’s name :-). Where did you come up with the concept for your story?
[Michele] Our family went on a vacation to Bear Lake, Idaho and drove through some of the little towns in the surrounding area. We went through the “don’t-blink-or-you’ll-miss-it” town of Paris, Idaho. Immediately I thought of the storyline and am excited to write the sequel which of course takes place in Paris, France.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Michele] I’m a major detailed outline writer. It’s the best way for me to sort out the plot and catch weakness and holes. That doesn’t mean that my characters don’t surprise me, because they do. Sometimes they take me on major detours from where I wanted the story to go. When that happens I rework my outline and move forward. It’s like a road map to a destination, with a lot of side trips along the way.
[Anne] I love those side trips! I never know where I’ll end up. In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Michele] I’ve been published now for twelve years and I’ve seen a huge change in marketing and publicity tactics. When I began I sent out hundreds of postcards to readers to announce the release of my book. I did tons of autograph signings aka “the person who points where the restroom is located.” I’ve had my books on TV and I’ve also been on TV, several times. But by and large, social networks are the cheapest and most effective tool an author has. Both of my publishers are capitalizing on social networks and encouraging all of their authors to promote themselves and their books. I still enjoy getting out into the bookstores and meeting real people though.
[Anne] What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author (for example: an awesome book signing or that one email you received from a reader that really made your day)?
[Michele] This is such a great question. For me the best part of writing is knowing that I’m making a difference in people’s lives. Once I received a letter from a woman in prison who told me that she had totally turned away from God when she was going through a terrible drug problem. She got a hold of one of my books in prison and felt prompted to pray. From that point on she began to soften her heart and feel the spirit work in her life again. And of course, there’s that letter from the eleven-year old boy who told me that he loved my books and that JK Rowling and I were his favorite authors. I still laugh about that.
[Anne] Wow! That is so awesome! And being compared to JK Rowlings…I’d frame that one. Now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Michele] Ha! Well, yes, I do have a few hobbies. I collect Steinbach Nutcrackers, I have over thirty and keep them out all year long. I also collect Doris Day movies. I got all of them on video, and then DVD’s came out so now I’m collecting them all on DVD. And I am addicted to Zumba. I actually teach Zumba classes. I’ve taught aerobics for twenty-eight years (started when leg warmers were cool) and just as I was about to retire at 50 I discovered Zumba. If you don’t know what Zumba is, email me and I’ll tell you all about it!
[Anne] You’ll be getting an email from me. Sounds interesting! What snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Michele] Pretzels, peanut M&Ms, and string cheese. Depends on time of day and my mood.
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Michele] If my family isn’t with me, then for sure my family, first and foremost. My house (that way I can include; shower, bed, TV, computer, washing machine . . .). Target.
[Anne] A Target…now that’s my kind of island. What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Michele] DON’T GIVE UP! Really and truly persistence is the quality that is usually the difference between being published and not being published. What you lack in talent can be made up in hard work, but you have to be persistent and not let rejections block you from reaching your goal. Ten years was a long time to try and make a dream come true, but I wanted it badly enough I never stopped trying.
[Anne] Great advice, Michele! Where can we purchase your books? And do you have a website we can visit?
[Michele] All my books are on www.amazon.com. My newest book is available at http://www.valorpublishinggroup.com/authors.php. It will also be available at Amazon.com. My web-site is: www.micheleashmanbell.com and my blog is www.micheleabell.blogspot.com.
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Michele] Thanks so much for the interview and for letting me share a little about myself with your readers.
[Anne] It’s been a pleasure getting to know more about you, Michele. Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions.
Friends, be sure to drop back by on Monday. My guest will be mystery/suspense author, Robin Caroll, who writes deep South mysteries of suspense for an inspired heart. Robin served as president of the American Christian Fiction Writers organization in 2007 & 2008, and is currently a Conference Director. She’ll be joining us to talk about her new release, Deliver Us From Evil, and you’ll have a chance to win a copy of the book.
Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!
[Anne] Why don’t we begin with how you got started in writing? How difficult was your journey to publication?
[Michele] My interest in writing stemmed from my love of books and reading. I distinctly remember being in third grade and having my teacher read, “My Father’s Dragon” to us. That book tapped into my imagination and created magic for me. My love affair with books grew with each passing year. When I was twenty-six I read a short story in Good Housekeeping magazine that I thought was terrible. I exclaimed out loud, “I could write a better story than that!” and that became a challenge to myself to see if I really could. It took ten years to finally get published. I first started with the national romance market, but wasn’t comfortable with the content most publishers wanted, so I jumped to YA, then children’s, then juvenile fiction. All with no luck. Finally, I discovered the inspirational market and the rest, they say, is history. By the way, I kept every rejection letter/post card (somewhere around 65) I ever received and have them in a scrapbook.
[Anne] I don’t have my rejections in a scrapbook yet, but I have them in a large file. You have a new release. Will you tell us about it?
[Michele] My latest book, released on March 16, 2010, is a YA romance. It’s a “riches to rags” type of story. It’s the story of Kenzie Williams who has grown up in a wealthy family, in an affluent neighborhood in New York, and comes home one day to find out that her father has declared bankruptcy and has lost everything. Not only that, her parents have decided to split up. While they sort through their problems they send her to live with her aunt and uncle in Paris . . . Idaho! Kenzie’s so embarrassed she tells her friends she’s going to Paris, but doesn’t tell them it’s in Idaho. The transition is anything but easy and Kenzie feels like her life has been destroyed. But slowly, over the summer, she learns valuable lessons about what really is important. She also meets Adam White, a mysterious young man who captures her heart.
[Anne] Hey I like your heroine’s name :-). Where did you come up with the concept for your story?
[Michele] Our family went on a vacation to Bear Lake, Idaho and drove through some of the little towns in the surrounding area. We went through the “don’t-blink-or-you’ll-miss-it” town of Paris, Idaho. Immediately I thought of the storyline and am excited to write the sequel which of course takes place in Paris, France.
[Anne] Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
[Michele] I’m a major detailed outline writer. It’s the best way for me to sort out the plot and catch weakness and holes. That doesn’t mean that my characters don’t surprise me, because they do. Sometimes they take me on major detours from where I wanted the story to go. When that happens I rework my outline and move forward. It’s like a road map to a destination, with a lot of side trips along the way.
[Anne] I love those side trips! I never know where I’ll end up. In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
[Michele] I’ve been published now for twelve years and I’ve seen a huge change in marketing and publicity tactics. When I began I sent out hundreds of postcards to readers to announce the release of my book. I did tons of autograph signings aka “the person who points where the restroom is located.” I’ve had my books on TV and I’ve also been on TV, several times. But by and large, social networks are the cheapest and most effective tool an author has. Both of my publishers are capitalizing on social networks and encouraging all of their authors to promote themselves and their books. I still enjoy getting out into the bookstores and meeting real people though.
[Anne] What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author (for example: an awesome book signing or that one email you received from a reader that really made your day)?
[Michele] This is such a great question. For me the best part of writing is knowing that I’m making a difference in people’s lives. Once I received a letter from a woman in prison who told me that she had totally turned away from God when she was going through a terrible drug problem. She got a hold of one of my books in prison and felt prompted to pray. From that point on she began to soften her heart and feel the spirit work in her life again. And of course, there’s that letter from the eleven-year old boy who told me that he loved my books and that JK Rowling and I were his favorite authors. I still laugh about that.
[Anne] Wow! That is so awesome! And being compared to JK Rowlings…I’d frame that one. Now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
[Michele] Ha! Well, yes, I do have a few hobbies. I collect Steinbach Nutcrackers, I have over thirty and keep them out all year long. I also collect Doris Day movies. I got all of them on video, and then DVD’s came out so now I’m collecting them all on DVD. And I am addicted to Zumba. I actually teach Zumba classes. I’ve taught aerobics for twenty-eight years (started when leg warmers were cool) and just as I was about to retire at 50 I discovered Zumba. If you don’t know what Zumba is, email me and I’ll tell you all about it!
[Anne] You’ll be getting an email from me. Sounds interesting! What snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
[Michele] Pretzels, peanut M&Ms, and string cheese. Depends on time of day and my mood.
[Anne] Now let’s pretend you’ve been stranded on an island somewhere in the pacific. What are three things you would miss the most?
[Michele] If my family isn’t with me, then for sure my family, first and foremost. My house (that way I can include; shower, bed, TV, computer, washing machine . . .). Target.
[Anne] A Target…now that’s my kind of island. What advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
[Michele] DON’T GIVE UP! Really and truly persistence is the quality that is usually the difference between being published and not being published. What you lack in talent can be made up in hard work, but you have to be persistent and not let rejections block you from reaching your goal. Ten years was a long time to try and make a dream come true, but I wanted it badly enough I never stopped trying.
[Anne] Great advice, Michele! Where can we purchase your books? And do you have a website we can visit?
[Michele] All my books are on www.amazon.com. My newest book is available at http://www.valorpublishinggroup.com/authors.php. It will also be available at Amazon.com. My web-site is: www.micheleashmanbell.com and my blog is www.micheleabell.blogspot.com.
[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?
[Michele] Thanks so much for the interview and for letting me share a little about myself with your readers.
[Anne] It’s been a pleasure getting to know more about you, Michele. Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions.
Friends, be sure to drop back by on Monday. My guest will be mystery/suspense author, Robin Caroll, who writes deep South mysteries of suspense for an inspired heart. Robin served as president of the American Christian Fiction Writers organization in 2007 & 2008, and is currently a Conference Director. She’ll be joining us to talk about her new release, Deliver Us From Evil, and you’ll have a chance to win a copy of the book.
Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Come Chat with the Sweetest Romance Authors!
Thursday, April 8, your Sweetest Romance Authors will chat all day in their forum at Coffee Time Romance Forum's Java Junction. Make plans to join in the fun as we share news about our latest works, WIP's, contracts (or not), videos, EVERYTHING that pertains to getting out those sweet romance stories you love!
It starts at 10 a.m. EST. We'll be looking forward to seeing you there!
(It will be the thread marked "April 2010 Chat")
You must be a member of CTR to be eligible to post.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Heather Justesen – Author of Clean Romance
Joining us today is Clean Romance Author, Heather Justesen. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer, Heather?
Unlike so many people I know who have known since they were kids, I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer until I was out of college and married. I don’t think I made a decision one day that I was going to write and then started doing so. Writing started out as an outlet in stressful time, and I enjoyed it so much I couldn’t stop. I’m not sure if I made that transition in my head during the first project I worked on or after I started the second, I just know it was a natural decision for me once the story started to flow. My siblings claim I was the only person in the family who didn’t know all along that I would some day write books. It’s amazing how un-self-aware we can be sometimes.
Were books a big part of your life growing up? If so, what books would you say influenced you most as a child?
Absolutely! I’ve been a big reader from the cradle and picked up everything I could get my hands on. In my early years I probably read and re-read Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series at least seven times—and a few more times since I became an adult. I read everything by Beverly Cleary and just about anything else I could get my hands on.
Share with us a little about your publication journey.
I submitted my first book about four years after I started writing (which was the first one I ever finished, not the first one I’d started) about January 2004, and it was rejected. I got some great feedback from the publisher, however, and reworked it and resubmitted the next year, and it was rejected again. By then I had numerous other projects I had worked on and turned my focus to one of those. That first book is still on the shelf and I don’t know if it’ll ever be resurrected.
It was 2009 before I was comfortable enough with my writing skills to submit again—after the book had been through several rounds of critiques by other writers. I submitted it to three different publishers before I found one who accepted it. In many ways I think I’m very lucky because I know so many people who send off dozens of submissions before finding a publisher. There were only three major publishers in my market at the time, so I was very happy to be accepted by one of them.
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest release is called “The Ball’s in Her Court” and is an inspirational romance about a woman’s journey as she searches for her birth family and answers to her past of abuse and neglect before she was adopted from foster care. I’ve gotten a lot of feedback from readers who hadn’t understood anything before about adoption and reunion and really felt it helped them understand it all better. My next book, “Rebound” is being released in May, and it’s a spin-off of the first book about a woman whose life falls apart after her husband is arrested for fraud. As she’s putting the pieces of her life together again she develops a friendship and more with the half-brother of the woman in “The Ball’s in Her Court,” who is dealing with his own search for answers to his past before adoption. Both are sweet romances.
Where did you get the idea for it?
When my husband and I were talking about adoption and doing foster care I spent hundreds of hours doing research about adoption and reunion and how it affected the various people involved. This book grew naturally from that research even before we took any foster placements. The second book came about because I fell in love with the half-brother and had to explore his story further.
What most inspires your imagination?
It’s amazing what will strike an idea or get the writing juices flowing. Sometimes it’s news stories, sometimes it’s a thread from something I’ve read elsewhere and I wonder what would happen if I took the premise and gave it a serious twist in a different direction. Inspiration is all around us—you just have to keep your eyes and ears open for it.
Do you do a lot of research for your books? If so, how do you go about doing it (internet, books, one on one)?
My books have needed various levels of research, and since I live in a small town I do the majority of my research online. I have interviewed people several times, and I have specific experts whom I contact when I have a medical or police procedural question. I also have a wide and varied collection of writing friends who come from different backgrounds and are happy to provide answers or critique sections for me to make sure I represented things right. Networking really has been one of the biggest boons to my writing career.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first started writing?
Gosh, there are so many things that I had to learn a bit at a time. I’d always loved to read, but it wasn’t until I’d been writing for a while before I paid attention to how authors created suspense or structured their stories, so it took me a while to figure all of that out. I had to write, a lot, to develop my skills, and getting feedback from other writers was the most valuable thing I could have done—I never would have gotten here on my own.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers out there?
Practice, practice, practice—nothing you write is wasted, even if it never sees the light of day. Play with different genres, because you never know what you might be able to write until you try—It wasn’t until I played with a suspense scene for something that will never be published that I realized I could write that kind of scene into one of my books. And don’t chase the market. Write something you’re passionate about and that love of the story will shine through.
Where is your favorite place to write?
My favorite place would be under a shady tree of a camp ground. Since that’s rarely feasible (and I don’t have any shady trees of my own yet), I do most of my writing while curled up on my bed or living room sofa. I like to be comfortable and my laptop allows me to create from anywhere. Serious editing is easier for me at my desk, however, as it’s not my favorite part of the process, and the desk forces me to remember what I’m supposed to be doing and stay on task.
Do you listen to music when you write? If so, what are some of your favorite bands/artists?
This varies a lot. When I’m editing I can’t listen to anything with words—it’s strictly instrumental. When I’m free writing and the scenes are coming easily, I listen to sounds tracks or whatever strikes my mood, but turned down very low. Sometimes quiet is my best friend, though, and I don’t listen to anything.
When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?
I took up cake decorating last year and have had a ton of fun with that. I really love baking, so I’m always looking for excuses to make a cake and take it somewhere, since it’s just me and my husband at home right now. I also like to garden, and have played around with most crafts from quilt making to cross stitching to making glass totems or scrap books. I tend to be a bit flighty, so I have to be careful not to start too many new things.
What are two things people might be surprised to know about you?
I became an EMT a couple of years back and run with my local volunteer ambulance service—which was a big surprise to me and all of my family when they found out. I blame my husband, who became an EMT years before we ever met.
I used to be a Realtor, but decided it wasn’t for me—I’m not much of a salesman, which had really made publicity a struggle for me, but I’m working on it.
You’re at the checkout counter in your favorite department store and you’re purchasing something from the book, music & movie sections. What are you buying?
Probably Josi Kilpack’s latest culinary mystery, Devil’s Food Cake, which I’m totally excited to pick up. I read pretty eclectically, so it really depends on what strikes my fancy that day.
Are you an animal lover, if so, do you have any pets?
Dozens. At the moment I have two dogs, two cats, and two fish inside the house. I also have two turkeys, four guineas, seven ducks, four geese and too many chickens to count. I love hatching so I have two incubators that I run nonstop about 10 months out of the year—most of the babies are sold to pay for feed.
Do you have a favorite TV show? What’s your favorite movie?
I love watching Chuck and Psyche, though I’ve recently discovered the new Doctor Who series as well. As for movies, I have so many favorites it’s hard to pick just one. I have seen Pride and Prejudice about a million times (I own two versions), and I also own Our Mutual Friend, which was a miniseries of Dickens’ classic that the BBC produced in 1999. We had to buy it overseas and convert it for my player since it wasn’t being sold in the US, but I’ve seen it nearly a dozen time.
Where can we purchase your books, and do you have a website?
My books are available on Amazon.com, through my website. “The Ball’s in Her Court” is available on Barnes and Noble, and Borders is already doing preorders for “Rebound.” I’ve also been told they are supposed to be available for Nook in the near future. Interested readers can check out the first chapter for both books on my website: HeatherJustesen.com
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Thanks for hosting me on your blog, Anne!
Thank you for joining us today, Heather, and congratulations on your books.
Unlike so many people I know who have known since they were kids, I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer until I was out of college and married. I don’t think I made a decision one day that I was going to write and then started doing so. Writing started out as an outlet in stressful time, and I enjoyed it so much I couldn’t stop. I’m not sure if I made that transition in my head during the first project I worked on or after I started the second, I just know it was a natural decision for me once the story started to flow. My siblings claim I was the only person in the family who didn’t know all along that I would some day write books. It’s amazing how un-self-aware we can be sometimes.
Were books a big part of your life growing up? If so, what books would you say influenced you most as a child?
Absolutely! I’ve been a big reader from the cradle and picked up everything I could get my hands on. In my early years I probably read and re-read Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series at least seven times—and a few more times since I became an adult. I read everything by Beverly Cleary and just about anything else I could get my hands on.
Share with us a little about your publication journey.
I submitted my first book about four years after I started writing (which was the first one I ever finished, not the first one I’d started) about January 2004, and it was rejected. I got some great feedback from the publisher, however, and reworked it and resubmitted the next year, and it was rejected again. By then I had numerous other projects I had worked on and turned my focus to one of those. That first book is still on the shelf and I don’t know if it’ll ever be resurrected.
It was 2009 before I was comfortable enough with my writing skills to submit again—after the book had been through several rounds of critiques by other writers. I submitted it to three different publishers before I found one who accepted it. In many ways I think I’m very lucky because I know so many people who send off dozens of submissions before finding a publisher. There were only three major publishers in my market at the time, so I was very happy to be accepted by one of them.
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest release is called “The Ball’s in Her Court” and is an inspirational romance about a woman’s journey as she searches for her birth family and answers to her past of abuse and neglect before she was adopted from foster care. I’ve gotten a lot of feedback from readers who hadn’t understood anything before about adoption and reunion and really felt it helped them understand it all better. My next book, “Rebound” is being released in May, and it’s a spin-off of the first book about a woman whose life falls apart after her husband is arrested for fraud. As she’s putting the pieces of her life together again she develops a friendship and more with the half-brother of the woman in “The Ball’s in Her Court,” who is dealing with his own search for answers to his past before adoption. Both are sweet romances.
Where did you get the idea for it?
When my husband and I were talking about adoption and doing foster care I spent hundreds of hours doing research about adoption and reunion and how it affected the various people involved. This book grew naturally from that research even before we took any foster placements. The second book came about because I fell in love with the half-brother and had to explore his story further.
What most inspires your imagination?
It’s amazing what will strike an idea or get the writing juices flowing. Sometimes it’s news stories, sometimes it’s a thread from something I’ve read elsewhere and I wonder what would happen if I took the premise and gave it a serious twist in a different direction. Inspiration is all around us—you just have to keep your eyes and ears open for it.
Do you do a lot of research for your books? If so, how do you go about doing it (internet, books, one on one)?
My books have needed various levels of research, and since I live in a small town I do the majority of my research online. I have interviewed people several times, and I have specific experts whom I contact when I have a medical or police procedural question. I also have a wide and varied collection of writing friends who come from different backgrounds and are happy to provide answers or critique sections for me to make sure I represented things right. Networking really has been one of the biggest boons to my writing career.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first started writing?
Gosh, there are so many things that I had to learn a bit at a time. I’d always loved to read, but it wasn’t until I’d been writing for a while before I paid attention to how authors created suspense or structured their stories, so it took me a while to figure all of that out. I had to write, a lot, to develop my skills, and getting feedback from other writers was the most valuable thing I could have done—I never would have gotten here on my own.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers out there?
Practice, practice, practice—nothing you write is wasted, even if it never sees the light of day. Play with different genres, because you never know what you might be able to write until you try—It wasn’t until I played with a suspense scene for something that will never be published that I realized I could write that kind of scene into one of my books. And don’t chase the market. Write something you’re passionate about and that love of the story will shine through.
Where is your favorite place to write?
My favorite place would be under a shady tree of a camp ground. Since that’s rarely feasible (and I don’t have any shady trees of my own yet), I do most of my writing while curled up on my bed or living room sofa. I like to be comfortable and my laptop allows me to create from anywhere. Serious editing is easier for me at my desk, however, as it’s not my favorite part of the process, and the desk forces me to remember what I’m supposed to be doing and stay on task.
Do you listen to music when you write? If so, what are some of your favorite bands/artists?
This varies a lot. When I’m editing I can’t listen to anything with words—it’s strictly instrumental. When I’m free writing and the scenes are coming easily, I listen to sounds tracks or whatever strikes my mood, but turned down very low. Sometimes quiet is my best friend, though, and I don’t listen to anything.
When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?
I took up cake decorating last year and have had a ton of fun with that. I really love baking, so I’m always looking for excuses to make a cake and take it somewhere, since it’s just me and my husband at home right now. I also like to garden, and have played around with most crafts from quilt making to cross stitching to making glass totems or scrap books. I tend to be a bit flighty, so I have to be careful not to start too many new things.
What are two things people might be surprised to know about you?
I became an EMT a couple of years back and run with my local volunteer ambulance service—which was a big surprise to me and all of my family when they found out. I blame my husband, who became an EMT years before we ever met.
I used to be a Realtor, but decided it wasn’t for me—I’m not much of a salesman, which had really made publicity a struggle for me, but I’m working on it.
You’re at the checkout counter in your favorite department store and you’re purchasing something from the book, music & movie sections. What are you buying?
Probably Josi Kilpack’s latest culinary mystery, Devil’s Food Cake, which I’m totally excited to pick up. I read pretty eclectically, so it really depends on what strikes my fancy that day.
Are you an animal lover, if so, do you have any pets?
Dozens. At the moment I have two dogs, two cats, and two fish inside the house. I also have two turkeys, four guineas, seven ducks, four geese and too many chickens to count. I love hatching so I have two incubators that I run nonstop about 10 months out of the year—most of the babies are sold to pay for feed.
Do you have a favorite TV show? What’s your favorite movie?
I love watching Chuck and Psyche, though I’ve recently discovered the new Doctor Who series as well. As for movies, I have so many favorites it’s hard to pick just one. I have seen Pride and Prejudice about a million times (I own two versions), and I also own Our Mutual Friend, which was a miniseries of Dickens’ classic that the BBC produced in 1999. We had to buy it overseas and convert it for my player since it wasn’t being sold in the US, but I’ve seen it nearly a dozen time.
Where can we purchase your books, and do you have a website?
My books are available on Amazon.com, through my website. “The Ball’s in Her Court” is available on Barnes and Noble, and Borders is already doing preorders for “Rebound.” I’ve also been told they are supposed to be available for Nook in the near future. Interested readers can check out the first chapter for both books on my website: HeatherJustesen.com
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Thanks for hosting me on your blog, Anne!
Thank you for joining us today, Heather, and congratulations on your books.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Easter Message by Max Lucado
I want to wish everyone a happy Easter and share with you a powerful, inspirational presentation from Max Lucado. It's a vivid, emotional reminder of Christ's work for us on the cross. Visit http://www.hechosethenails.net/
Blessings to you and yours!
Anne
Blessings to you and yours!
Anne
Thursday, April 1, 2010
And the Grand Prize Winner is.....
Wow, what a month!!! We’ve had some great guests, awesome comments, given away some wonderful books and I don’t know about you but I had a blast. Now for the moment you’ve all been waiting for.
The winner of my grand prize drawing in March Madness is…*drum roll of course* Lady_Graeye and the winner of my Scavenger Hunt is…*another drum roll* Beverly Taylor. Congratulations ladies!!!! Lady_Graeye won an autographed copy of Lethal Dreams, a download of one of my other books and a tin of chocolates. Beverly won a $50 VISA gift card. How awesome is that!
I want to thank EVERYONE who participated in my March Madness Contest & Scavenger Hunt. I’ve enjoyed all the wonderful comments and emails, and I am especially grateful to all the talented authors who visited this month and gave away copies of their books.
Now there is still one giveaway under way and that is for a free download of Reservations for Two, written my alter ego Kinzie Monroe. If you haven’t read Maggie’s interview yet, scroll on down a few posts. Maggie is my main character in the book and she is a real hoot. You’d never guess her late husband was a pastor. This rollerblading grandma loves adventure and she’s on one now that is liable to change the course of her future or alienate her family.
Val at You Gotta Read Reviews gave Reservations for Two it’s highest rating: "Kinzie Monroe has written a story laced with intrigue, drama and a very pure and captivating romance. Reservations for Two is the type of book that captures your attention and takes you away to places you may not have been. The imagery is spectacular and I felt as though I was hiking and experiencing the sunsets right there with the characters. If you are looking for a sweet romance that will give you an "aha" moment, then look no further than Reservations for Two. I highly recommend this book to any lover of the romance genre. Ms. Monroe, I commend you on a well written book with characters that kept me coming back for more." Please read the whole review here!
For a chance to win Reservations for Two all you have to do is leave a comment with your email address or some way of contacting you if your name is drawn on Sunday. Good Luck!!!
The winner of my grand prize drawing in March Madness is…*drum roll of course* Lady_Graeye and the winner of my Scavenger Hunt is…*another drum roll* Beverly Taylor. Congratulations ladies!!!! Lady_Graeye won an autographed copy of Lethal Dreams, a download of one of my other books and a tin of chocolates. Beverly won a $50 VISA gift card. How awesome is that!
I want to thank EVERYONE who participated in my March Madness Contest & Scavenger Hunt. I’ve enjoyed all the wonderful comments and emails, and I am especially grateful to all the talented authors who visited this month and gave away copies of their books.
Now there is still one giveaway under way and that is for a free download of Reservations for Two, written my alter ego Kinzie Monroe. If you haven’t read Maggie’s interview yet, scroll on down a few posts. Maggie is my main character in the book and she is a real hoot. You’d never guess her late husband was a pastor. This rollerblading grandma loves adventure and she’s on one now that is liable to change the course of her future or alienate her family.
Val at You Gotta Read Reviews gave Reservations for Two it’s highest rating: "Kinzie Monroe has written a story laced with intrigue, drama and a very pure and captivating romance. Reservations for Two is the type of book that captures your attention and takes you away to places you may not have been. The imagery is spectacular and I felt as though I was hiking and experiencing the sunsets right there with the characters. If you are looking for a sweet romance that will give you an "aha" moment, then look no further than Reservations for Two. I highly recommend this book to any lover of the romance genre. Ms. Monroe, I commend you on a well written book with characters that kept me coming back for more." Please read the whole review here!
For a chance to win Reservations for Two all you have to do is leave a comment with your email address or some way of contacting you if your name is drawn on Sunday. Good Luck!!!
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