Linda Weaver Clarke's New Release & Giveaway!

Linda will give away one download of her book at the end of the above mentioned hop ending Sept 12th. To enter her drawing just leave a comment with your contact information.  Good luck!

Title: Desert Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans (2012)

Author: Linda Weaver Clarke

Website: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Synopsis: Mystery…Adventure...Romance...Humor...Intrigue! When Julia’s brother announces that his dude ranch is haunted, she believes that someone is trying to sabotage his place and force him to sell. The mysterious happenings have to do with Superstition Mountain, the lost Dutchman’s goldmine, and the great Thunder God. Is it possible that the legend of the Thunder God is actually true? After a terrible thunderstorm, everyone begins to wonder. John and Julia quickly head to Mesa, Arizona and discover a few mysterious events. Will they find out who is behind these disasters before Uncle Kelly’s dude ranch is ruined?

Reviews: Romance, Mystery, and Regional History Collaborate to Create a Satisfying, Intriguing Story! It was difficult to put this one down. I cared about the characters, I cared about their ranch, and I was brainstorming right along with this delightful family, figuring out how to either remove the curse or solve the mystery that threatened to destroy their way of life. There are children flirting with romance, relational complexities, and a wedding in the works that just won’t seem to come together. The writing is clear and lively, never calling attention to itself or getting in the way of the story. The touches of humor and inclusion of regional history tie it all together to make a satisfying story all the more fascinating. Highly recommended! –Steve Miller, Author

This book can be read safely by anyone, and the romance scenes are absolutely delectable! The mystery in the book is probably the best I have seen from Linda Weaver Clarke. She gave subtle details, but even I did not have it all figured out by the end. –My Devotional Thoughts

I loved the first three books in this series, but I actually loved this one even more. I didn’t think that was possible. The characters are so well written and I absolutely adore each member of the Evans family. They grab at your heartstrings and won’t let go. As for the story, talk about a fast-paced story. Desert Intrigue is that and more! It’s a book that will leave you with that “warm fuzzy” feeling. Linda Weaver Clarke has outdone herself with this book! I'm sure it comes as no surprise that it's getting my Socrates' Great Book Alert. –Socrates Book Reviews

Desert Intrigue is an entertaining and joyful book, my favorite in this mystery series by Linda Weaver Clarke. I love the sparks of romance in this adventure--they spice things up and add much interest to the story. The book has a handful of surprises that I did not anticipate, and the mystery fuels much of the action. –Suko’s Notebook

As a guy, it was really great to see a man, check that men, being shown as strong not only physically, but emotionally as well. I've read a lot of books where the guy in the book isn't shown as being connected to his wife/girlfriend through anything other than surface thoughts. With John and his brother-in-law Kelly, though, I saw them as "men's men", and ones that also were invested in the life of the women around them. The story moved quick enough, there were plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing, right down to the ending of the book. –Rick Estep, Reviews From A Man's Perspective

Charade of Hearts by Sharon Donovan

IT’S SHEER MAGIC!
IT’S SHEER SUSPENSE!
IT’S SHEER ROMANCE!
IT’S CHARADE OF HEARTS!
STARRING THE ONE AND ONLY OLIVER!

In a Jewel of the Night Mystery by The Wild Rose Press!

Blurb

While scuba diving off the coast of Diamond Head with her diving partner on a quest to find a family heirloom, underwater photographer Dominique St. John witnesses his brutal murder and photographs it, ensnaring her in a deadly jewel ring. And when the investigating officer turns out to be her partner’s identical twin, a man she knew nothing about, her life becomes a Charade of Hearts.

Welcome to the world of greed, intrigue, deception and murder. And at its core is a blue diamond worth millions.

As honest as his twin was corrupt, Honolulu Homicide Detective Oliver Carvalho must convince Dominique that her diving partner and best friend was a crook. In a race against time, Oliver must rescue Dominique from a ruthless killer. But his biggest challenge proves to be mending a broken heart torn by betrayal that can only be redeemed by love.


I am thrilled to announce the release of Charade of Hearts, the book you’ve all been waiting for. In my latest romantic suspense by The Wild Rose Press, our very own Oliver fights off the villain to save his lady love from harm’s way. With this handsome knight in shining armor in mind, I chose gorgeous Hawaii for the setting. Why Hawaii you ask? Because I vacationed in the beautiful tropical paradise once upon a time and fell in love with the miles of breathtaking beauty.

At night, velvety skies open into a kaleidoscope of shooting stars that glitter like diamonds. In the distance, the jagged peaks of Diamond Head shroud the island like an iron fortress. Frothy white waves gently lap ashore the shimmering white sand, while balmy palm trees sway lazily in the hibiscus-scented evenings. Myna birds whistle and love doves coo, their lyrical singing softly floating across warm sultry nights. The lush landscape encompassing the exotic island invoke a feeling of tropical relaxation. Truly paradise!

A huge fan of the original Hawaii Five-0, not to mention my massive crush on Jack Lord, you have no idea how I hoped and prayed for a glimpse of the hottie detective! When the pulsating theme song would start. They would flash several beach scenes, including native Hawaiians paddling outrigger canoes in the peaceful ocean waves, women wildly gyrating their hips to the hula, then end it when Jack Lord turned around and smiled. My heart be still!

As the best books written are those well researched, I knew that one day one of my books would feature the wild and majestic tropical isle of Hawaii as the setting. I walked along these miles of sugary white sands, swam in the ocean blue, sailed out to the desolate waters off the coast of Diamond Head where Dominique and Roberto scuba dive. And, just as I describe in Charade of Hearts, although the Pacific Ocean is peaceful, that far off shore, the waters are quite choppy and definitely rock the boat. Native Hawaiians warned of the nasty sea predators I use in my book. Tiger sharks swim in these off shore waters and are deadly man eaters. One of these killer sharks devours Roberto, Oliver’s evil twin brother in the opening scene. Creepy moray eels are a frightful sight, and the villain of the story, The Dragon, has one of these chilling snakes as a pet and sicks it on the lovely Dominique. Oliver to the rescue!

So when The Crimson line of The Wild Rose Press presented a challenge for the captivating Jewel of the Night, with the parameters being intrigue, romance, danger and suspense, the raw beauty of Hawaii came to mind for the setting, and sexy Oliver fit the bill for the hottie detective. I’ll leave you with an excerpt. Aloha!

Excerpt
With an abrupt bang, the line went dead. Dominique sat staring at the phone cord dangling in mid air, polarized. She felt the tremor from deep in her gut, rising high in her chest and through her throat. Her mouth was wide open but nothing came out. But when she heard a sharp wrap at the door, she erupted like a quaking volcano and let loose with a piercing wail that rattled the chandelier.

“Dominique, open up. It’s the police, Detective Oliver Carvalho. Let me in.”

Racing to the door, hands trembling as her fingers fumbled to undo the dead bolt, she flung the door open and thrust herself in the detective’s arms. Her voice came out in jumbled fragments. “He…the attacker…” she jabbed her forefinger over her shoulder toward the bedroom phone where the receiver dangled. “Said he’d call back…twenty four hours. Wants them, diamond and camera. Feed me to the sharks if I call the cops.” Her voice broke, tears streaming down her face and onto Oliver’s shirt collar. “He knows my name…saw me take pictures…he’s…”

“Easy,” Oliver’s muscular arms draped around her waist. Then he walked her backward to the bedroom, giving her a gentle shove onto the bed. Then he snatched up the receiver from the rug, clapped it to his ear. Lips puckered, he slammed it back into the cradle and stared at her.

His fiery gaze was scorching hot. A slow heat burned in her belly as his eyes rake her long, slender neck, stopping to linger on her exposed cleavage. Then lower still to her bare legs where the cherry red silk robe rode high on her upper thighs. Then that penetrating gaze seared into hers. His words came out, laced with enough heat to have her quaking at full throttle.

“Tell me what he said, word for word.”

Dominique licked her lips, reached for her cocktail. The ice cubes had melted and beads of moisture had seeped onto the teakwood night stand. She took a sip. “He told me he knew I had the diamond and he knew I took pictures. He said I had twenty-four hours to hand them over, that he’d be in touch. He said no cops…or…” her voice broke off, lips quivering. “He threatened to feed me to the sharks, said they were hungry. He said Roberto, he called him lover boy, just wet their appetite for dessert.”

The detective nodded, prodding her to go on. “What else?”

“Nothing, the line went dead. Then you knocked at the door. I thought it was him, the caller. I thought he came to…”

Detective Carvalho waved off what she was about to say. “I went to the Honolulu Clinic this morning because I had more questions. They informed me you’d been discharged and had been transported by taxi to this hotel.”

Dominique stared at the detective, mute. His eyes were identical to Roberto’s. It was disarming. How could she possibly accept the fact this man standing less than a foot away from her with desire burning in his eyes wasn’t Roberto? She couldn’t. Her mind refused to accept it. She had to send the signal to her brain because her heart sure wasn’t getting the message. But when his scorching gaze raked her body, evoking feelings in her Roberto never had, her breath caught in her throat. She wanted to reach for him, coil herself in his strong embrace, feel his heart beat with hers. And she wanted him to rip off her sexy lingerie and devour every inch of her body. She bit her lip, mortified. How could she be thinking about sex at a time like this? And why was Roberto’s twin brother stirring her blood to liquid heat with his burning gaze? Not once had Roberto evoked such feelings in her. She reached for her drink with such swiftness, she felt her silky lingerie slither past her shoulder and down her arm. And then

Charade of Hearts

Oliver’s story!

AVAILABLE NOW!

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/charade-of-hearts-p-4346.html


Sharon Donovan lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her family. Prior to the loss of her vision, she was a legal secretary for the Court of Common Pleas where she prepared cases for judges in Domestic Relations. Painting was her passion. When she could no longer paint, she began attending creative writing classes and memoir workshops. After a long and winding road, a new dream arose. Today, instead of painting her pictures on canvas, Sharon paints her pictures with words.

Sharon writes stories of inspiration and suspense. She has certificates in business and medical transcription. Echo of a Raven, a narrative non-fiction about her struggles with diabetic retinopathy, received a CTRR award for outstanding writing, and The Claddagh Ring is a 2009 CAPA nominee for best inspirational of the year. Other books by Sharon Donovan are Mask of the Betrayer, Touched by an Angel, Lasting Love and Her Biggest Fan. Charade of Hearts is her latest romantic suspense. You can visit Sharon at http://www.sharonadonovan.com/ or write to her at: sharonad@comcast.net

Check out her blog where the one and only Oliver will mix your favorite cocktail with a wink and a smile!

http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com/

Oliver...the man of my dreams

I've been looking forward to today since I first contacted Sharon and asked her and Oliver to come for a visit.  If you haven't ever visited Sharon's blog and met her sexy butler, you're in for a real treat.  He sure makes my heart go pitter patter :-).  

*'Oliver'©SDonovan2010   Picture©iStockphoto.com/Nikada

[Anne] Welcome, Oliver!  I see where you have your own fan club now. Any special fan mail you’d care to share?

[Oliver] First of all, Annie love, thank y’all for interviewing me today. Here’s a bouquet of wild flowers I picked in the garden this morning, just for you. Bright Morning Glories, pretty pink tulips, red roses, Blue Bells and dazzling daffodils. But, might I be so bold to say, as fresh and lovely as they are, not a bloom in the blossom can match the sparkle in your eyes, sweet thing. About that fan mail, a true gentleman doesn’t kiss and tell. Wink.

[Anne] Now aren't you the sweetest thing that ever walked the earth.  Oliver, I saw in a recent interview that you were born in Tuscany, but raised in Hawaii. Have you traveled to either place lately?

[Oliver] Well, hot lips, as y’all know, Charade of Hearts is set in the exotic tropical isles, and we had a release party in a gorgeous plantation manor overlooking the peaceful waves of the Pacific Ocean. Although I live in Pennsylvania with the boss lady, I go home to Hawaii every chance I get. The warm summer breeze is in my blood every bit as much as the hibiscus scented nights. And no sound is sweeter than waking up to the peaceful cooing of love doves, just outside my window. But nothing can compare to a refreshing hike through a rain forest, the wildlife is incredible, the gushing sound of a waterfall cascading over rocks, music to my ears.

Tuscany is beautiful, sweet home of my heart. I’m tellin’ you, Annie, my pet, y’all haven’t lived til you’ve seen the vineyards sparkling like jewels in the brilliant sunshine. Deep purple, sizzling crimson, and glossy amber cover the landscape. Wild roses and honeysuckle bloom abundantly on a hillside bordered by fragrant lemon trees, and age-old olive trees sit on hilltops, gnarled branches reaching upward as if in prayer. No wonder Italy had some of the most legendary artists, it’s a painter’s dream.

[Anne] Oliver, you keep making me blush and we're never going to get through this interview.  *Anne clears her throat and smiles at her handsome guest* So once your day is done, meeting Sharon’s every need, how do you spend your evenings?

[Oliver] Between my detective job and waiting on Sharon hand and foot, talk about high maintenance, there isn’t all that much spare time. But I do enjoy a decent jazz band that can play the blues with a snappy deliverance, reminiscent of the Big Easy, a favorite vacation spot for me. Sitting in a cool, dimly lit jazz bar with a shaken not stirred James Bond martini and a pretty woman like you, sweet thing, is my idea of heaven on earth. Wink.

*Anne bats her eyes at Oliver, wishing she was just a few years younger*  What made you choose to be a private investigator?

[Oliver] It’s in my blood. I grew up watching all the top detective shows. Hawaii 5-0, Barnaby Jones, Magnum PI, now those were some real role models, real men, heroes to be looked up to and admired. But y’all know my idol was, is and always will be James Bond. I have his entire collection of movies on DVD in my library and openly admit to copying a few of his moves. Oliver pumps his biceps and grins. So, naturally, love, with JB as my mentor and being born with the living on the edge of danger gene, what else could I want to be but a secret agent man. Wink

[Anne] Any interesting cases you can share with us?

[Oliver] With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, Oliver kisses Anne. Annie, sweet thing, that’s why I’m a G man, a secret agent man, because everything is top secret and will not pass my hot lips.

[Anne] Whew!  You are quite the charmer, my G man.  Besides being a handsome devil, word is you love to cook. What is your favorite dish to make?

Oliver grins. Pasta, my own sweet mama’s recipe, God rest her soul. As you know, I was born in Tuscany and lived on a farm. I grew up on peasant cooking, food that was home grown or gathered in the wild. I’m telling you, Annie, you haven’t lived until you’ve had a meal prepared with farm grown meats and fresh greens and vegetables from the good earth. Italian women add an extra ingredient, love. Mama certainly did. We had pigs and chickens in our villa, and nobody in the land grew sweeter or plumper tomatoes than Mama. And her spaghetti sauce, he kisses his fingertips. Mama made the best and passed her recipe to me.

[Anne] Now I’m sure all the ladies out there have wondered this, what traits do you find most attractive in a woman?

[Oliver] That’s simple, love. I’m attracted to a woman whose inner beauty is as radiant as her smile, a woman who is compassionate as well as passionate, a woman who isn’t afraid to live life to the fullest and make every day count. A woman just like you, Annie..

[Anne] Don't tease me, Oliver, if I could find a man as sexy as you who loves to cook I might just settle down and get hitched.  *Grinning* Okay, say you’ve picked up that special lady in your life and are going to treat her to a night on the town. Where would you take her?

[Oliver] First, I’d appear at her door with a fresh bouquet of her favorite flowers. I’m a man with old fashioned virtues and believe in treating a woman like a lady. Then, her choice in cuisine, I’d sweep her off to a nice eatery slightly off the beaten path, specializing in home cooking that takes more than five minutes to prepare. We’d sit in a secluded booth in the back of the bistro where we could quietly talk and get to know each other without being disturbed every few minutes. It would be a candlelit dinner, of course, so that I could gaze into her eyes. We’d order a nicely aged bottle of wine to start things out, white if she preferred, although I enjoy a Tuscan red myself. And definitely a basket of warm crusty bread with some of that whipped garlic butter that melts in your mouth. Oh, you asked earlier what kind of woman I’m attracted to. Did I mention one with a healthy appetite that isn’t afraid to eat and isn’t forever on a diet counting calories. It does my heart good to see a woman dig into food with gusto. In Tuscany, folks enjoy long, leisurely meals, seven course meals that aren’t rushed, an admirable custom might I add. So when I take a woman out to dinner, I like to indulge in the same. After dinner, a nice romantic stroll under the light of the silvery moon. We would end the evening with a nightcap at a quaint little piano bar where we could dance cheek to cheek, followed by a kiss is just a kiss. .

[Anne] I picture you in a sporty, red, muscle car. Am I wrong?

[Oliver] Absolutely right on the money, Annie, my sweet, only it’s black. Wink

[Anne] Will there be a sequel to Charade of Hearts?

COH is a single title, but the boss lady’s been burning the midnight oil lately working on another romantic suspense featuring a hot Cajon French detective. Wink

Oliver kisses Anne and casts her a wicked wink. Annie, love, you are a gift. Thank y’all for inviting me into your heart and home for an exclusive. You are most hospitable and ask the best questions Drop into Oliver’s bar anytime, and I’ll mix your favorite cocktail with a wink and a smile. Cheers!


Dear Reader,

If you would like to be a guest on the Dear Oliver Show to vent about your favorite pet peeve, please contact Sharon at Sharonad@comcast.net

Dear Oliver can be seen every Wednesday here: http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com

Wow! No offense to any of my other guests who've appeared on my blog, but this had to be my favorite post. Isn't Oliver the most romantic devil you ever came across. *Letting out a long sigh* Man what I wouldn't give to be a few years younger.

Inspirational Author Shawna K. Williams

Shawna K. Williams is an inspirational novelist who loves telling a story through flawed characters – the only kind she can relate to. God's Grace serves as a the major theme for all of her stories, but she also likes a good dose of nostalgia, which is why many of her stories are set in rural America during the first half of the 20th Century. When not writing, Shawna spends time with her husband and three children enjoying life on their ranch. She's also an avid reader, editor, book reviewer, blogger, homeschooling mom and jewelry designer.


Now let's get to know a little about Shawna and one of her new releases.

1. Name one of your favorite books as a child.

Clifford the Big Red Dog

2. Do you have a favorite author?

Francine Rivers

3. Out of all the books you’ve read, which one comes immediately to your mind? If there is a favorite scene you remember, please share.

Since I just mentioned Francine Rivers, I'm thinking of the book Sure as the Dawn, and a scene where the Rizpah is shot with an arrow, while she, Atretes and Theophilous are traveling back to Germania. I'm not going to say what happens because it's a pivotal point, but Atretes reaction is perfect. Nothing else would have convinced him to make the choice he makes in that scene.

4. Your favorite vacation spot (whether you have been there or not)?

I'd like to go to the Mediterranean and see Pompeii, Rome, Greece and Santorini. But if I can't go there, then Alaska would be nice. I went to Alaska as a child.

5. Which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?

I guess a custom kitchen. I can cook, but I don't love it. A closet would just get messy. What I'd really like is a custom office/craft room. I could set up one side for writing and the other for jewelry making.

6. It’s Saturday afternoon and you’re home alone. What are you wearing? And yes, you must have clothes on.

If it's cool out, sweats. If it's warm, shorts and a t-shirt.

7. What’s your favorite dish?

Grilled Salmon!

8. Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?

I love where we live. It's beautiful! When I'm not writing I like to do stuff with my family, like going on a hike or digging for quartz. I haven't taken enough time to do that sort of thing, lately. I like being outside to enjoy our critters. They're cute and they relax me. If I'm indoors and not writing, I'm probably making jewelry

9. You’ve just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you’ve collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?

I don't know. I love to camp, so I guess the RV, but I'd probably rather take the family on a Mediterranean cruise.

10. What’s your favorite television show?

I love Firefly, though it was canceled years ago before it caught on. Outstanding writing!

Movie? I don't think I have a favorite movie. There are a variety that I like for different reasons, though. Oh Brother Where Art Thou and Galaxy Quest are both fun parodies with great one-liners, so those are my light-hearted mood movies. The movies I like best are those with strong characterization, an unexpected twist or a unique perspective; The Green Mile, The Village, Gosford Park are some I really like. I also like the theme of redemption. Life as a House is an excellent one to watch with that in mind.

11. You’ve won a talent show! What act did you perform?

Oh boy, well, if it's current day, then it would have to be the equivalent of the Gong Show -- gonged and winning being the same thing . But... if I jumped back in time twenty years ago, I was a fairly decent dancer. I even performed with a group of other dancers on a television show in Hong Kong. I have a trophy and medallion tucked away somewhere, with the title "Miss Halftime USA" engraved on them. Lol!

12. Would you rather have the power to be invisible or be able to fly, and why?

Invisible. I could learn so much! I guess that would be kind of sneaky though, so I should probably pick the ability to fly.

13. What was one of the most surprising things you learned during your journey to publication?

Getting rejections really does get easier.

14. What was the most interesting research you did for a book?

1950s Hollywood. My story took place during the studio era of Hollywood and my heroine was a movie star. I was born in 1970, and did I mention I live in Arkansas -- rural Arkansas. The last thing I wanted was to sound like a girl born 20 years too late, who lived in a cow pasture, writing about the glamorous life of a 1950s starlet. I read biographies of about nine different actresses from the era, plus numerous books about films of the day, behind the scenes stuff, the history of the studios and their system, etc... It was really very fascinating.

My research about the internment camps during WWII was every bit as interesting, but not quite as involved.

15. Where do you go when you need to get inspired to write?

A walk usually does me good. It's just hard for me to make myself take the time. Sort of a counterproductive attitude since it saves me time by inspiring me.

As good as a walk may be though, my best ideas seem to hit me while I'm in the shower.

16. Do you have any writing quirks?

I character journal. Characters are the driving force behind my stories, so I've found that when I'm having a hard time getting in the frame of mind to write, it's helpful to open my journal file and write as my character, as if the events in the books were real.

17. What do you think makes a good story?

Characters! Big surprise there, huh? I've found that I can read about any genre if the characters are compelling enough. If I can't connect with them, it doesn't matter how good the plot is because I just won't care about what happens to the people in the story.

18. What are you working on now?

A book called The Good Fight. I had quite a few people ask me about the character Roger from my debut book, No Other. Initially I hadn't intended to give him his own book, but when I wrote In All Things, No Other's sequel, it occurred to me just how important he'd been. I also started pondering how certain events from the first book might have played out in his life. Before long I had some pretty strong ideas brewing.

19. What's one of the more interesting experiences you've had with one of your readers?

Hmm... I have had positive experiences. I think one of the best is from a local guy who bought my first book because I was local and he wanted to be supportive. He is a Christian, but he didn't read romance or Christian fiction, so he hadn't really expected to like it. He's ended up being quite a fan, and has bought everything I've written since, on the first day, and been really encouraging by telling others how much he, as a guy, enjoyed the stories. I had really wanted them to be something a guy could enjoy.

20. Complete this scene: It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it...

How about two possible scenarios.

Scenario one:

It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it I was flat on my back in the middle of the sidewalk. He leaned over me, his mouth moving but the sound of his words lost in the steady thump of rain pounding the concrete I lay upon. His blue eyes narrowed. Whether from worry or agitation, I wasn't quite sure, but he did offer me his hand. I focused through the water droplets clouding my vision and wondered why. A sharp pain throbbed in the back of my skull to remind me. Oh yeah, I'd fallen.

Scenario two:

It was raining. I finally had an occasion to use my beloved Prada umbrella I'd bought on clearance last fall. The man came out of nowhere just as I poised to open it, and before I knew it I was engaged in a furious tug of war over my prized possession. Even on sale this thing cost a fortune and I wasn't about to give it up!

I blinked against the rain droplets pummeling my face, and my gaze locked with his. Both of our eyes burned with a single determination: Mine!

Be sure to check out Shawna's new releases! They can be purchased at Desert Breeze Publishing.  Just click on a cover for a direct link.

No Other blurb:

In the aftermath of WWII all Jakob Wilheimer wants is to get over his pain, get on with life, and if at all possible, forgive those who've wronged his family -- including himself. But it's hard to do when there are constant reminders. One of them being his former schoolmate, now teacher, Meri Parker -- Miss Port Delamar Pearl, Mayor's daughter, Belle of the town -- Meri Parker.

After enduring the stigma and isolation associated with the internment camp, the awkwardness of going back to school should've been a cake walk. But Jakob didn't expect to find himself inexplicably drawn to Meri. Or to discover that the pain and loneliness of her life surpassed his own. She needed to be rescued from the wretched people seeking to control her life. And more than anything, he needed to be the one to save her.

In All Things blurb:

Jakob and Meri's story continues...

Meredith Louis's Hollywood career is at a point of transition. No longer under Majestic Studios control, Meri is free to broaden her appeal as an actress and finally earn the recognition she desires.

Meri and Jakob return to their hometown for the holidays where Meri hopes to reconcile with her parents after a decade of silence. But after a disastrous encounter, Meri is plunged into turmoil as old fears resurface in unexpected ways.

Jakob, already dealing with unresolved family issues of his own, is further burdened by his inability to help his wife. Can he learn to step aside and trust God's plan. Will Meri recognize what she already has?

In All Things is a story of faith and restoration, grounded in the belief, "...that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Orphaned Hearts blurb:

Pastor David Langley understands six-year old Caleb Holsheyer -- what it feels like to be damaged and alone. His family killed in a fire, and his body severely burned, David grew up in an orphanage, ridiculed and shunned. He couldn’t let that be Caleb’s fate.

When adoption plans fall through, David is desperate to find Caleb a new home. But in the midst of the Great Depression, most families are barely getting by. No one seems willing to take on the responsibility of an extra mouth, especially one belonging to a crippled child.

Except for Sadie Miller, the town spinster. In Sadie, David sees the answer to Caleb's needs. But Child Welfare doesn't agree, and demands other arrangements be found, or the boy be returned to the orphanage.

David and Sadie team up, determined to find a home for an orphaned child, but while searching, might they find a family instead.

Interview with Sherry Gloag

[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

[Sherry] It wasn’t so much a realization as being ‘something’ always there. I made several attempts to fulfill the need to write but until 2006 you could say ‘life happened’.

[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.

Blurb for The Brat:

Gina Williams has a secret and prays it is buried with her childhood persecutor, Em Kouvaris, as discovery will ruin her reputation as a famous children’s author. She soon discovers the son, Ben Kouvaris, new owner of her publishing company, has uncovered her past and is making demands. Will he ruin her career if she doesn’t comply?

Ben Kouvaris is blown away by the unknown beauty at his estranged mother's funeral, and when his father demands he marry, immediately, to secure the family business, he knows just who he wants as his temporary bride. But can Ben persuade Gina to trust him?

Excerpt

From the shadow of the ancient yew tree, Benedict Kouvaris observed the two people standing at his mother’s graveside. The clergyman’s voice carried on the still air, as he intoned the funeral rites for the woman who’d sent him to another country on his tenth birthday, two and a half decades ago.

He thrust his anger and confusion beneath the surface of his consciousness and focused his attention on the elegant Armani-suited woman, whose blonde hair contrasted with her black suit and concealed her face from view. The wind sighed through the branches, and the man beside him shifted from one foot to the other. “Who is she?” He raised an eyebrow in query.

“Miss Williams, sir.” His mother’s solicitor, Mr. Cranborne, cleared his throat. “She cared for your mother for the last five years.”

The clergyman bent to lift a small clutch of soil, which he threw into the open grave. His action was replicated by the woman.

And who, Ben wondered, was Miss Williams?

[Anne] Great blurb and excerpt, Sherry! What inspired you to write this story?

[Sherry] It wasn’t so much inspiration as Gina’s demand her story be told. Since she wouldn’t leave me alone, I caved and began writing.

[Anne] How did you go about researching your book?

[Sherry] With great difficulty! Although I enjoy researching stuff, I rarely managed to find what I’m looking for when I want it!!

[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?

[Sherry] Not so much ‘new’ as returning to WIP when Gina demanded priority.

[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a panster?

[Sherry] I am a panster, but by the end of each chapter I know, roughly, where the next one is headed.

[Anne] Cool. A fellow panster :-). Okay, 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?

[Sherry] ROFL :-) There are so many places, but Italy is pulling me right now. The area around Florence.

[Anne] Oh, great choice! What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?

[Sherry] Romance, because I enjoy HEA. Mystery and detective novels, because I enjoy trying to work out the plot before it’s revealed.

[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).

[Sherry] My computer and its peripherals. My tumble dryer!! Lots of surrounding space. I enjoy visiting towns, but would not like to live in one.

[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?

[Sherry] Believe in yourself. If you don’t, why should anyone else? Write regularly, about anything, then hone that into your own voice, then let rip and get busy with your story.

[Anne] Great advice, Sherry! Where can we find you on the web?

[Sherry] My website: http://www.sherrygloag.com/, My Blog: http://sherrygloagtheheartofromance.blogspot.com/, Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/profile.php?id=689789287; Twitter: http://twitter.com/SherryGloag   & GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4277928.Sherry_Gloag

[Anne] Where can we purchase your book?

[Sherry] http://www.thewildrosepress.com/sherry-gloag-m-862.html

[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?

[Sherry] Thank you for inviting me here today. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.

Kinzie’s new Inspirational Romance is now available!

Attorney Kirby Shelton has met a lot of wackos in her life. But the computer software queen, Leah Dalton, takes the prize. Leah, facing a losing battle with cancer, comes to Kirby with a plan to end her life on her terms. Leah invites Kirby and five of her closest friends to her estate, and offers to make one of them a multi-millionaire. All they have to do is kill her. Will they do it?

Purchase the ebook now for only $3.99 http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/18418 or the print for $11.99 https://www.createspace.com/3468867

Sandra Sookoo Interview & Giveaway

Author Bio: Sandra is a writer of romantic fiction. Her portfolio includes historical, contemporary, sci-fi and paranormal romances. She loves to blend genres and spice them up and often times will add humor as well.

After catching the writing bug at the young age of ten, she’s gone on to grow her unique writing style. She’s a regular contributor for the Paranormal Romantic’s blog and blogs bi-monthly with a great group of women at Embrace the Shadows.

When not immersed in creating new worlds and interesting characters, Sandra likes to read, bake and travel. Her favorite place to spend vacation hours is Walt Disney World. It’s where dreams come true and the soul can play. That suits her just fine.

Writing is her ultimate dream job.

[Anne] When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

[Sandra] Since I was 10 and wrote my first “epic fantasy” book featuring the kids in the neighborhood. LOL

[Anne] Tell us about your latest book.

[Sandra] My book DEAD RUBY SLIPPERS is my first attempt at doing a mystery. It’s a sweet romance as well. At the time I wrote it, I was exclusively reading cozy mysteries and thought I’d take a chance. Turns out, it’s way harder than I thought so I’m not sure if I’ll write another one LOL Of course, I wanted to put my own special spin on it, too.

Blurb: Dancing may be hard…but no one expected it to be murder.

When sexy tap dancer Abigail Carlton, a.k.a. Ruby Slippers, is found dead and arranged in an artistic fashion on her coffee table, it’s up to Special Agent Quentin Banks to solve her murder.

But nothing is ever as it seems. Not only is Quentin a FBI career man, he doubles as an officer for the Institute of Magical Instruction…and the dancer’s death has super natural energy written all over it.

Quentin must find who murdered Abigail, and he only has 24 hours to do it before it’s taken over by his superiors.



[Anne] Sounds interesting! What inspired you to write this story?

[Sandra] I just wanted to see if I could try a new genre.  Always stretch the wings.

[Anne] Do you have anything new in the works?

[Sandra] LOL I always have something new. Two days before DEAD RUBY SLIPPERS came out, I had a fun, foodie vampire novella release called ROCKET’S RED GLARE. It’s Fourth of July themed and I’m pretty excited about it.

Works in Progress though, I’m writing a full length historical romance novel as well as a full length fantasy romance piece. If I thought writing mysteries was hard, fantasy is probably even more difficult

[Anne] What is your writing process like? Are you a plotter or a pantster?

[Sandra] Definitely a plotter. It cuts down on rewrites during the editing process and I like referring to the outline while the book is in progress. It’s kinda like a road map with a general overview of where I’m going. Surprises always happen in between but the end goals are the same.

[Anne] If you could be anyone of your characters, which one would you chose to be and why?

[Sandra] LOL Well, the contemporary heroines are pretty much modeled after me so I already live their lives in a roundabout way LOL So I guess it would have to be one of the heroines in my historical novels.

[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…)

[Sandra] Hmm, I’d love to visit any venue in Italy or perhaps London to visit the sites for historical purposes. Barring that, I have no idea LOL

[Anne] What type of books do you like to read when you’re not writing?

[Sandra] My reading tastes run the gauntlet and I love to jump genres, depending on my mood.

[Anne] Name three things you can’t live without (excluding spouses and family because that’s a given).

[Sandra] My e-reader, my laptop and my washing machine LOL

[Anne] What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?

[Sandra] Don’t give up, no matter what happens in your career. This industry is hard and mean and disheartening a good portion of the time. Believe in yourself and your ability and you’ll weather the storm just fine.

[Anne] Where can we find you on the web?

[Sandra] I’m on Facebook and Twitter. My website is http://www.sandrasookoo.com The links for the others are on the first page of my site.

Where can we purchase your books?

Buy link for the publisher: http://www.lyricalpress.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_25&products_id=154

Buy Link for Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dead-Ruby-Slippers-ebook/dp/B003HF0N2U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1276179637&sr=8-1

[Anne] Is there anything else you’d like to add?

[Sandra] Thanks so much for having me! I will be giving a random commenter a romance-themed pizza cutter and a goodie bag so be sure to leave an email address!

[Anne] That’s awesome! Thank you for joining me today, Sandra. Your new mystery sounds intriguing. I wish you the best of luck with it and all of your writing endeavors.

Free Read from Kinzie

Kinzie Monroe, my alter ego, is offering a free download of her inspirational novel, No Greater Love. No strings attached. No Greater Love is the story of a woman with great wealth and power who has been stricken with terminal cancer and is about to learn that you can’t put a price on God’s grace, or the love of good friends. And for you romance lovers, there is some romance thrown in.  Here’s the blurb:

What would you do for $300million dollars? Would you commit murder? That’s what Leah Dalton is asking of five of her closest friends. The co-founder and CEO of Dalton Software Inc., has spent the last six months searching desperately for a cure to the cancer that is eating away at her brain. Finally realizing she is fighting a losing battle, she devises a plan that will give her back some control of her life. Deciding if she’s going to die, she is going to be the one who chooses how and when.

Inviting five of her closest friends, and a local attorney to her estate to spend a week, she shares the news of her impending death and asks for their help. Afraid of the painful death she knows is just around the corner, she offers them the chance of a lifetime. She wants one of them to kill her. She doesn’t care how as long as it’s painless and appears to be accidental or natural. In return for their good deed, the person will receive $300million dollars. Will one of her friends take her up on the offer? What would you do?

All you have to do is click here and download the PDF file. We hope you enjoy it. Oh and please keep in mind that since this is a free read it has not gone through a series of editors so you are likely to see some boo boos. But hey, it’s free so don’t complain :-)