WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE BOOK?

On Facebook, several people have been naming ten favorite books that meant something in your life. Narrowing my preference down to only ten would be impossible. And what each meant depended on where I was at that stage of life. Although I’ve been an avid reader as long as I can remember, I’ll skip the school years and move on to after I became an adult. I’ll also skip the classics and go for popular fiction.

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, by Harper Lee. Okay, so it’s a classic now. Who didn’t love that one? I kept waiting for another book from Harper Lee (as did a lot of others). I thought Scout’s story was wonderful. I saw the film starring Gregory Peck and in which Robert Duvall had his first role. This is one of the few times I enjoyed a movie as much as the book.

THE HELP BY Katherine Stockett. Didn’t we love the way the heroine obtained justice for her friends? I didn’t like the movie because so much had to be changed. This is why books are better than movies—you get the main characters’ internal thoughts and motivation in a book. Usually impossible for a movie.

THE GUENSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. How sad that Ms Schaffer died before she learned how successful her wonderful book had become. Thank goodness her niece Ms Barrows finished editing the manuscript. I have to admit my knowledge of the Isle of Guernsey was nil, but this story uplifted my spirit even though it dealt with Nazi occupation. 

MR. CHURCHILL’S SECRETARY by Susan Elia Macneal. This is another World War II setting, but Maggie Hope brings just that. I love this series and will save them to reread.  FALLON by Louis L’Amour. Any of his, really. What a great writer. He captured history and people and painted the West in words. I’ve read each of his books and will never tire of rereading them.

FOR THE ROSES by Julie Garwood. This was a wonderful saga about lost boys and the baby girl they rescued as they moved from New York to the West. Family and redemption are themes I love.

PRINCE CHARMING by Julie Garwood. Probably my all-time favorite book, I love the subtle humor the author introduces into the story and the developing love and adventure. I loved so many things about this book: the scene where we learn who stole Lucas’ knife, where we see Taylor shooting rabbits, where Taylor covers Lucas’ friend with a blanket, and so many more.

THE PROMISE OF JENNY JONES by Maggie Osborne. Jenny had only one thing and that’s her word. She keeps her promise through unbelievably difficult conditions and triumphs. My first time to read a book with a six-foot, redheaded, muleskinner heroine. In a speech once, I heard Ms Osborne say this was the traditional governess story turned on its ear. ☺

SLIGHTLY SHADY by Amanda Quick (Jayne Ann Krentz). This is the first of the Lavinia Lake and Tobias March trilogy and I loved each one. This first was probably my favorite. However, this woman cannot write a bad book under any name. I think I have each of her books by each of her names. The historical romances are my favorites.

MONTANA SKY by Nora Roberts. This is one of my favorites by Ms Roberts (although THE WITNESS may tie). I liked the three half-sisters learning to work together on a ranch and learning to be family. Family is a wonderful theme.  

TO KISS A TEXAN by Jodi Thomas. Wes McClain is my favorite member of his family and his rescue of the captive woman Allie,who salves his wounded heart, is amazing. Theirs is a memorable romance that has stayed with me for years.

 

FALLON by Louis L'Amour, along with each of his other historical works. What a creative genius this man was. He once told a group of writers that he could write while sitting in a folding chair in the center of Hollywood and Vine with a typewriter balanced on his knees. I know he was the master of setting and characterization. I chose FALLON as my favorite of his books because  it's the story of a man who is much better than he believes, a story of redemption. But L'Amour wrote only great books. Hero and I save them and reread them from time to time. I practically know FALLON by heart, yet it still calls to me. 

I have deliberately not mentioned any of the books of personal friends. To do so would be insane. I’d be certain to overlook someone and then be in the dog house forever. And there simply is not enough space or time to list all my favorites. There are huge numbers of wonderful writers whose books I’ve enjoyed and saved. And I continue discovering new writers whose works I love. Someday maybe I’ll quit writing and just read.

Naw, this is too great a job. Why would I ever give up a job where I can work at home in my jammies?

Thanks for stopping by!

  

STEPHANIE BURKHART AND A GENTLEMAN AND A ROGUE

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Stephanie will be awarding $25 GC to Amazon to a randomly drawn winner via the Rafflecopter at the end of this post during the tour. Click on the banner to visit other stops on this tour.

Lady Keira Russell is destined to bring compressed natural gas to Britain. Her inner courage and mental toughness rarely falter – except when Prince Edmund Windsor is involved.

Edmund of Wales is from the future. His last jaunt through history muffed up the time line. Now, he's here to set it straight and win Keira's heart.

For Keira, if it isn't one obstacle, it's another. Queen Victoria has sponsored a competition to find a cleaner fuel source than coal. Keira's father is trying to build a windmill and the Ridgecrofts are working with gasoline. Then there's Edmund, whose sensual kisses and heated stares distract her down to her bones.

Keira has a choice: trust Edmund's notorious mischief-making or put her faith in Queen Victoria to make the right decision, but if Keira makes the wrong choice, the future of Great Britain will be changed forever.

Enjoy an excerpt from A GENTLEMAN AND A ROGUE:

The song ended and Edmund grabbed her hand, tugging her toward the nearest hallway. At first, she wanted to protest; call out for her father and defy Edmund's wishes, but then reason kicked in. She wanted -- no, needed -- answers. And, she had plenty of questions.

They entered the main wing, and passed two rooms before Edmund opened a door and dragged her inside. Books littered the shelves. The library. A beam of light from a full moon shined through the window, casting Edmund's features in sharp, contrasting shadows. He leaned against the door and crossed his arms. His eyes narrowed, giving his expression a dark, hard edge. He looked like a devil in this moment. She steeled her shoulders, ready to do battle with him.

Silence grew between them as they both set their postures. Damn Edmund. She wanted to kiss the devil senseless. Thankfully, she still had her wits.

"What are you doing with Jonas Byron?" Edmund's voice was cold and exact.

"Dancing." She surprised herself with the ease of her retort.

"Looked more like flirting to me."

"Jealous?"

A muscle twitched in his jaw. "No."

"You are a horrible liar."

"Keira, you can't trust him."

She placed her hands on her hips. "Curious, you're the second man tonight to tell me that."

"Grayson has your best interests at heart. You need to listen to him."

"He's been missing for four years." She paused, glaring at him. "Like you have. And I thought you weren't coming back."

"I'm here now, and I'm not leaving you again."

She tilted her head and laughed. Oh, yes, he'd leave her again, and she had no intention of letting her heart get broken.

Edmund lunged forward, placed his hands on her waist, and pulled her against the length of his hard, muscled body, trapping her arms between them so her hands rested on his chest. His emerald eyes flamed with desire. Her heart turned over in response. His unique scent, spice and currants, weakened her resolve. As her memories flooded through her mind, her lips ached for his.

"God, Keira, don't test me like this."

Stephanie Burkhart, Author

Stephanie Burkhart is a 911 dispatcher for LAPD. She was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire. She served 11 years in the US Army and currently calls Castaic, California her home. Stephanie was married in Denmark in 1991 and has two young sons. She adores chocolate and is addicted to coffee. She writes paranormal, contemporary, and steampunk romance and has two children's books published with 4RV Publishing.

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:

http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee

PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/



BUY LINKS FOR A GENTLEMAN AND A ROGUE:

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK:

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-366/The-Windsor-Diaries-Book/Detail.bok

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thewindsordiariesbookthreeagentlemanandarogue-996194-141.html

BARNES & NOBLE (NOOK)

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-windsor-diaries-book-two-stephanie-burkhart/1113777499?ean=2940015869538

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STAN SCHATT AND NEW RELEASE, SILENT PARTNER

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Stan will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

SILENT PARTNER is a paranormal mystery, a police procedure novel with a female detective that will remind you of Harry Bosch, a ghost story that suggests what lies beyond death, and a comic look at a tabloid where the “truth” is whatever sells.

Enjoy an excerpt of SILENT PARTNER:


“Duh. Of course I am, but I’m also the one who tripped you. Give me some credit for that. I think it’s like a hundred years of bad karma if you let the person you’re protecting get killed.”

“You’re protecting me? How come you didn’t keep me from being shot?”

“Give me a break. I told you that I’m new to this. The bullet only nicked your butt; so don’t make a federal case out of it. If I hadn’t tripped you,
you’d be paralyzed. You should be grateful to me.”

Josh felt a cold shiver run up his spine.

“Then you’re dead?”

“We don’t refer to it that way. We like to say that we’ve moved to another plane.”

“How come I can see you?”

Andy smiled thinly.

“You Harrells have a gift. Everyone has a guardian angel, but only certain people can see us. It’s easier in a way for us if you can’t see us.”

“You’ll keep anything bad from happening to me?”

“There’s such a thing as free will, my dear. I can only help you so much.

If it’s your time, then it’s lights out. Now that you’re thirty, things are going to get a lot harder.”

“What do you mean?”

Josh had a sinking feeling in his stomach, and it wasn’t the alcohol.

“A lot of things are going to change for you now. As I said, you Harrells are gifted, although some of your relatives thought of it as a curse.”

“I don’t believe this. You mean my father really did see someone? He wasn’t crazy?”

“Of course he saw someone. I hope you don’t throw your full glass of whiskey at me the way he threw his at his guardian.”

“How could you possibly know that?”

“You’re asking too many questions. Just take my word that everything’s relative, including time.”

“What do you want?”


About the Author:

Stan Schatt grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and now resides in Carlsbad, California. He has written thirty-five books on a wide variety of subjects ranging from fiction to technology. He is co-author of JOURNEY TO A DIFFERENT DIMENSION, an Amazon bestseller. He also authored EGYPT RISING, a YA novel focusing on a teen’s experience in Egypt at the time of the Egyptian revolution of 2011. This novel contains paranormal elements including a secret buried under the Sphinx. The paranormal mystery SILENT PARTNER is Schatt’s latest novel.

He has led several careers including futurist and executive for many of the world’s leading technology market research firms, police department administrator, autopsy assistant, software trainer, Telecommunications Department Chairman, and English professor. He taught at Tokyo University as a Fulbright exchange professor. His non-fiction includes books on such diverse topics as strategies for changing careers for a green industry job, studies of Michael Connelly and Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., network and data communications technology, telecommunications, computer programming.

http://www.pen-l.com/SilentPartner.html

http://www.stanschatt.com

http://www.twitter.com/stanschatt



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THE SECRET BLISS OF CALLIOPE IPSWICH BY MARCIA LYNN McCLURE

The Secret Bliss of Calliope Ipswich by Marcia Lynn McClure


“Oh! Do link arms with me, Calliope,” Blanche whispered, her brown eyes widening with apprehension. She took Calliope’s arm, tightly linking it with her own. “The old Mulholland house still gives me the willies every time I walk past it. I hate to think on what might have gone on inside. It’s truly terrifyin’!”

“Oh, don’t be silly, Blanche,” Calliope said, feigning calm. “Poor Prudence’s lunacy…it’s sad. And besides, her fiendish acts were not committed inside the house. There’s nothing wrong with it. It’s just…it’s just a sad, empty building.” Calliope Ipswich felt the hypocrite, however, as an uncomfortable shiver of residual dread and unease shuttered down her spine,

More than six months had passed since the All Hollow’s Eve when the dangerous state of Prudence Mulholland’s fracturing mind had been revealed to the townsfolk of Meadowlark Lake. And now, each time Calliope thought of poor Prudence and her family, not only did her heart ache for their family’s unhappy lot but a chill of lingering horror rippled through her being.

In truth, at times Calliope wondered if it had all been simply a bad dream—a nightmare. But it hadn’t. It really had happened—all of it.

Purchase your copy on

AMAZON * Distractions Ink

Marcia Lynn McClure, Author

Marcia Lynn McClure’s intoxicating succession of novels, novellas, and e-books, has established her as one of the most favored and engaging authors of true romance. Her unprecedented forte in weaving captivating stories of western, medieval, regency, and contemporary amour void of brusque intimacy has earned her the title “The Queen of Kissing.”


Marcia, who was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has spent her life intrigued with people, history, love, and romance. A wife, mother, grandmother, family historian, poet, and author, Marcia Lynn McClure spins her tales of splendor for the sake of offering respite through the beauty, mirth, and delight of a worthwhile and wonderful story.








BookBlast Giveaway


$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash


Ends 9/16/14


Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


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SKY'S END - BY LESLEY YOUNG

Sky’s End

by Lesley Young

Lesley will be awarding a $75 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn winner via Rafflecopter during the tour.

SKY’S END Blurb:

A secret she must never share. A secret that two warring species are determined to control. A universe’s future at stake.

Twenty-year-old Cassiel Winters joins Earth’s new space academy in hopes of finding her brother, one of Command’s top pilots and her only family, who’s been reported MIA. But she quickly realizes she may not be cut out for life in space, where female cadets are outnumbered, competition’s fierce, and she’s already failed her hand-to-hand combat test once.

Even the station’s most respected officer, Lt. Damian King, probably can’t help Cassiel pass the second time around – so why is he so interested in her progress? If only one of her freaky déjà vu visions would offer an answer instead of mysterious messages like hide.

When Cassiel’s manipulated into a perilous mission, she encounters a warrior species bred to protect the universe from an even greater threat. And she learns that her secret visions are at the heart of it all.

Now Cassiel must fight to control her own destiny and race to save her brother – even if it means pretending to be the pawn of Prime Or’ic, the cold-as-steel Thell’eon leader. Even if it means risking her life, facing hard truths, and making the ultimate sacrifice.

SKY’S END Excerpt:

“Wake up,” he whispers in my ear. “This is real. This is your life now. Here. With me.”

I concentrate on my breaths, shallow as they are. I don’t dare look up at him. Instead, I stare at his chest, my mind whirring. I should be red in the head right about now. But, but pride’s weaker than truth because what he says resonates somewhere deep down.

I have spent most of my life ashamed, confused, lost, not knowing what I am. No, not knowing who I am. Not being honest with myself.

I’ve built up walls to protect myself for fear of not knowing, for fear of letting others down, for fear of letting myself down. And yet, I spend every waking hour always desperate to be something, to be somebody, to be validated. Then, when I finally gain some understanding, some insight, what do I do? I hide from it, like the chicken heart that I am.

Tears of frustration brim in my eyes.

Torn, I fight the urge to run and hide, mentally and physically, with every fiber of my being. To prove him wrong.

And somehow, I manage to stand still.

The last thing I expect from him right now is tenderness. But that’s what he offers, acceptance in a simple brush stroke of my cheek. His other hand touches my shoulder. I remain motionless, staring at his chest.

One, two, three, tears spill over. He brushes them away. Who is this man? What is doing to me? I look up at him, confused, pleading for . . . what?

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Skys-End-Lesley-Young/dp/1619352389/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372207931&sr=8-1&keywords=sky%27s+end+lesley+young

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/skys-end-lesley-young/1115564788?ean=9781619352384

Lesley Young, Author

Journalist Lesley Young never thought she would delve into the world of writing fiction, but when she sat down for the first time to put pen to paper, ideas for what would become her first novel just poured out naturally. Young’s first book, “SKY’S END,” is a multi-genre tale that showcases her unique style of weaving romance, action and wit into one page-burning story.

Young was born in Edmonton, Alberta in Canada. She holds an arts degree from the University of Alberta and a journalism degree from the University of Victoria.

Young now lives in Loretto, Ontario where she works as a journalist, freelance writer and editor for health, décor and business magazines. Since 2008, Young has written more than 300 articles for print and online media including Profit, Toronto Life, MSN Green, and Elle Canada among others. She is a regular contributor to Reader’s Digest, Best Health, Canadian Living and House and Home Magazine.

Soul Mate Publishing released “SKY’S END” on July 15 in paperback and e-book. The novel is Young’s first installment in a series about Cassiel Winters, a futuristic heroine, and her outer space escapades.

Links:

http://www.Facebook.com/LesleyYoungBooks  

http://www.Twitter.com/@LesleyYoungBks

www.LesleyYoungBooks.com

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MEET MY CHARACTER, KAGE JOHANSSEN

MAIL ORDER PROMISE
the first book in
MAIL ORDER TANGLE

I introduced you to Ellie Dickerson two weeks ago, and Jacquie Rogers introduced you to Laura Dickerson the week before that.  They're sisters, and Ellie has come to Texas as a mail-order bride.  Laura, who's three years older, comes wit her sister.

Last week, Jacquie introduced you to Matt Johanssen, hero of MAIL ORDER RUCKUS. Now I’ll introduce you to the hero of MAIL ORDER PROMISE, a short western historical romance that is the first book in a duet with Jacquie Rogers, MAIL ORDER TANGLE, to be released September 12th.
However, the book is already available for preorder on Amazon.

1) What is the name of your character? Is he/she fictional or a historic person?

Kage is short for Karl Gustave Johanssen and he's fictional and a hunky cowboy. Kage is two years younger than his brother Erik and a year younger than his cousin/foster brother Matt. Kage is tall, dark, and very handsome with dark hair and striking sky blue eyes. His grandparents emigrated from Sweden to Central Texas. His father died several years ago, but his mother is alive and keeps house for his widowed grandfather.

2) When and where is the story set?

1880 in fictional Valdesta, Texas near the actual town of Bastrop and not too far from Austin.

The ranch borders the Colorado River and this is what the ranch might look like in the spring when it's all nice and green.

3) What should we know about him/her?

Kage admires his brother Erik and his grandfather Adelbert "Bert" Karl Johanssen. He wants to achieve what his grandfather and father accomplished and build a thriving ranch in spite of all the uncontrollable factors a rancher faces. His word is his bond except in one instance. His dying brother extracts a promise to wed the mail order bride who's due to arrive soon. Kage has no intention of marrying anyone other than a woman he chooses, but gives the promise to ease his brother's painful passing. He salves his conscience by telling everyone he'll make sure the mail order bride is taken care of and find her an acceptable groom.

4) What is the main conflict? What messes up his/her life?

Because his brother died, Kage must remain in Texas to run the family ranch. He planned to return to Idaho to the ranch he and Matt spent three years building. But Kage can't abandon his mother and aging grandfather, so he agrees to remain in Texas. Still, he's determined to choose his own wife.

When Erik's fiancée arrives, Kage is certain he does not want to marry Ellie Dickerson in spite of the fact she is gorgeous. She just isn't cut out to be a rancher's wife. Instead, she's obviously been raised with servants and knows little about running a household.

5) What is the personal goal of the character?

Kage plans to find Ellie a husband as soon as he has time to search for one. In the meantime, he has his hands full with vandalism and death threats.

6) Is there a working title for this novel, and can we read more about it?

The title of the duet boxed set is MAIL ORDER TANGLE. My book is MAIL ORDER PROMISE and Jacquie's book is MAIL ORDER RUCKUS.

http://mailordertangle.blogspot.com.

We don’t have much on the site yet, but the cover’s posted and there’s a blurb for each book.

7) When can we expect the book to be published?

September 12th, but you can Preorder this duet now on Amazon! PreOrder HERE.

In the meantime, sign up for my newsletter to be notified of where to post bail, Er, I mean to learn about new releases.

For the latest scoop on Jacquie's shenanigans, subscribe to her newsletter, the Pickle Barrel Gazette, and join her Facebook group, the Pickle Barrel Bar and Books.

And while you're waiting for MAIL ORDER TANGLE's release, why not read one of our other books? Mine are on my Amazon Author Page. My most recent release is another in the Kincaid series, GABE KINCAID.

Or try a Stone Mountain book like BRAZOS BRIDE or try THE TEXAN'S IRISH BRIDE.

Jacquie's other releases include her beloved Hearts of Owyhee series at her Amazon Author Page.

and her SLEIGHT OF HEART

Plus short stories in numerous anthologies.

Thanks for stopping by!

WHAT IS A WRITER'S RETREAT?

The past few days, I spent with three other authors at our writer’s retreat plotting books. In addition to a lot of laughter, exchange of marketing information, more food than we needed (and  a couple of margaritas), we plotted a lot of books and novellas. We've known one another for twenty years and work well together. Two of the books and one novella were for me. Hooray! 

In order to work uninterrupted, we were at a local hotel. We brought plotting boards, sticky notes, notebooks, and various other plotting aids that always include chocolate. We congregate in one of the rooms. But this is not a vacation, folks. We work long, long hours and get down to business immediately. Even during meals, we talk writing and marketing.

My cousin Sandra called my cell phone while we were in the process and asked me how in the world we work together to plot. She wondered if we write on each other’s books. Not at all.

Ready to begin plotting

Our group consisted of a romantic suspense/action adventure/erotica author, a humor/paranormal suspense romance author, and two of us who write western historical romance. We use a plotting process similar to that taught by Robin Perini and Laura Baker in their “Story Magic” workshops. All four of us attended the same of those workshops years ago.  Although this process is not for everyone, it is perfect for us.

Over the years, we’ve modified the “Story Magic” process to fit our books and writing process. We use a plotting board that has been divided into chapters. We keep a notebook or laptop handy for notes that won’t fit on a sticky note. Sticky notes indicate what happens in a particular scene and in whose point of view the scene is written. Pink notes for the heroine, blue for the hero, other colors for plot points, villain, and so forth.

A plotted book

We turn our sticky notes into an outline. Although three other authors suggested turning points and events for the book, how each of us interprets those suggestions is purely individual. Personal voice and style plus a lot of hours spent working creates a book.   

I came home yesterday with a new Stone Mountain novel to be called WINTER BRIDE, a Stone Mountain Christmas novella called STONE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS, and the first novel of a new series called the Bride Brigade. (The first of the Bride Brigade is JOSEPHINE.)  At our next retreat that we’re already planning, I’ll work on a new Kincaid novel about Rafe Kincaid, the second of the new series, and a Kincaid novella about Monk.

Each of the writers at this retreat works diligently to keep new work releasing for our readers. But new books don’t just happen. They involve planning and long hours at the computer.  Watch for new releases coming in the future!

Thanks for stopping by!

THE HONEYMOON PRIZE TOUR

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Melissa will award a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn winner via the rafflecopter at the end of this post during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.


NOTE: This book is on sale for only $0.99 during the tour.  Why not grab yourself a copy today?

He needs a wife...

Single bodyguard Nick Calhoun has been given an ultimatum by his boss--find a wife or lose his cushy, high-paying job. Clients' wives are hitting on him and putting Nick, and his boss, in hot water. But monogamy? He's never been a white picket fence kind of guy, and he's not about to embrace the happily married lifestyle now. He needs a wife who doesn't care about his steamy, extra-curricular love life...and he knows just the woman to fit the bill.

She needs a home...

Adalaide Sinclair spent years caring for her ill grandmother. Upon Grammy's death, she's stunned to find herself evicted from the only home she's ever known and labeled a thief by her inheritance-hungry family. Addie needs to find a place to live and a job--fast. So when her childhood friend, Nick, proposes a no-sex marriage of convenience, she puts her dreams of true love and happily-ever-after on hold. Finding Prince Charming can wait a little longer, right?

But will their friendship survive the honeymoon?

When Nick and Addie unexpectedly win a dream honeymoon, they decide to go their separate ways during the ten-day vacation. Too bad a camera crew is waiting for them at the tropical paradise. Acting like a head-over-heels bride and groom for reality TV wreaks havoc on their no-sex agreement...and blurs the line between fantasy and reality. Will Nick and Addie remain married in name only, or will a romantic honeymoon for show turn them into true newlyweds?

Enjoy an excerpt from THE HONEYMOON PRIZE:

“I feel like a Miss, not a Mrs.”

“Well, you’ve got five years to get used to the title.”

Five years.

That suddenly seemed like a long time to play house. Dating while caring for her grandmother had been impossible. She’d tried a few times over the years. But given up. Still she believed in love, the forever kind that would last a lifetime. Someday she would find that.

Someday . . .

He touched her arm. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing, just . . .” In spite of her doubts, Addie hoped Nick understood the depth of her gratitude. A week ago, she’d forgotten her key to Emily’s apartment and fallen asleep on the welcome mat leaning against the front door, waiting for her friend to return from a date. “Thanks for everything. I owe you big time.”

“Thank you.” He flashed her a charming smile that sent female hearts aflutter, brought women to their knees at bars and clubs, and convinced Addie to accept his marriage-of convenience proposal. Not that saying yes took much convincing. Desperation had a way of making a person see the brighter side to any option, including marrying her closest guy friend.

“Without legal proof I was a one woman guy, my boss would ship me off to some boring assignment guarding a building or I’d be looking for a new job.”

“I’d be homeless.”

He winked. “You win.”

“We both win and get a free honeymoon out of the deal.”

Melissa McClone, Author

With a degree in mechanical engineering from Stanford University, Melissa McClone worked for a major airline where she traveled the globe and met her husband. But analyzing jet engine performance couldn’t compete with her love of writing happily ever afters. Her first full-time writing endeavor was her first sale when she was pregnant with her first child! Since then, she has published over thirty romance novels with Harlequin and Tule Publishing Group. She’s also been nominated for Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award. When she isn’t writing, you can usually find her driving her minivan to/from her children’s swim practices and other activities. She also sends care packages to deployed service members and fosters cats through a local no-kill animal shelter. Melissa lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three school-aged children, two spoiled Norwegian Elkhounds and cats who think they rule the house. They do!

Website: http://www.melissamcclone.com

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

Twitter: @melissamcclone

Buy link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LE4Q370

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HOW WE WROTE COMPANION BOOKS FOR A DUET BOXED SET

You probably know that Jacquie Rogers and I are writing linked books to be boxed as a duet and released in September. You might wonder (I hope) how one goes about writing linked books with another author. 

For starters, I am a major fan of Jacquie’s books, especially her western historical romances. She knows a tremendous amount about the Old West and writes with wry humor that I love. MUCH ADO ABOUT MARSHALS and SLEIGHT OF HEART are my two favorites, but the woman ALWAYS delivers a great story. So, when she asked if I’d be interested in pairing up for a boxed set, I jumped at the chance.

But that’s the easy part. First we had to work out details so our books were compatible and there was continuity of characters. This took quite a few emails and several phone calls. 

Choosing titles was difficult due to the large number of mail order bride books already published. We locked ours in and Jacquie put up a blog for us at http://mailordertangle.blogspot.com  As time goes along, we’ll post more to the blog. 

As soon as we had the titles, then we could commission a cover. Jacquie and I are thrilled with the cover. Don't you agree?

After choosing 1880 for the first book, we decided our two heroes would be cousins. Of course they would each be handsome, tall, with dark hair and bright blue eyes. Sounds like my husband, whom I call Hero. Well, his dark hair is mostly gray now, but you get the idea.

Our heroines are Richmond, Virginia sisters whose debt-ridden father’s suicide left them destitute and disgraced. With no more money after having pawned everything they salvaged from creditors, the youngest sister applied to a marriage broker as a mail order bride on the condition she could bring her sister with her. Otherwise, her sister would have agreed to marry a despicable elderly man so they would have a roof over their heads.

Colorado River near Bastrop, Texas

For locale, we needed the Texas ranch to be on the Colorado River in Central Texas, which is ranching country and supplied herds of cattle to Idaho Territory. All my books are set in Texas and all Jacquie’s books are set in Idaho. Don’t want to waste all our research, right?

The Texas town is fictitious, but based near the real town of Bastrop about thirty miles from Austin. When deciding on a community, we wanted one to which many immigrants had come earlier in the 19^th century. Checking on those in Idaho Territory, Jacquie learned there were a lot of Swedish immigrants in Owyhee County about the time we wanted these books set.

Ranch such as our Texas hero owned.

In Texas, there were more Germans in this area, but also Swedish and Norwegian. We settled on Swedish for our heroes. The fictitious town is named after an actual town in Sweden, which happened a lot when a group of immigrants arrived to settle together. So, we were off and running—I mean writing.

We carefully outlined what we wanted to happen, who the secondary characters would be, names, and the situation in each book. And we all know how the best laid plans work, right? Yes, we had to keep sending our work back and forth so the tone of the books coincided. Plus I had help from my critique group and my plotting group. Apparently, it takes a village to write a book. ☺

MAIL ORDER PROMISE by moi is not as humorous as Jacquie’s MAIL ORDER RUCKUS.  Oh, I have several humorous incidents, but Jacquie has a true gift in that department. We each include skullduggery to keep you guessing how the plot unfolds. Bwhahaha.

Don’t think I’m only going to post about MAIL ORDER TANGLE. Nope, I will maybe once a week for a while, then feature other posts the other two times that week. On Monday, the 25^th, I’ll be posting a character interview with the hero of MAIL ORDER PROMISE. Please come back then. Just like my personal Hero, he’s a keeper.

In the meantime, you can learn about Jacquie's hero, Matt Johannsen, from MAIL ORDER RUCKUS today at her blog at http://romancingthewest.blogspot.com 

Thanks for stopping by!  

BETH TRISSEL AND TRAITOR'S LEGACY TOUR

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Beth will be awarding a $35 Amazon gift card to a randomly drawn winner via the rafflecopter at the end of this post.

1781. On opposite sides of the War of Independence, British Captain Jacob Vaughan and Claire Monroe find themselves thrust together by chance and expediency.

Captain Vaughan comes to a stately North Carolina manor to catch a spy. Instead, he finds himself in bedlam: the head of the household is an old man ravaged by madness, the one sane male of the family is the very man he is hunting, and the household is overseen by his beguiling sister Claire.

Torn between duty, love, and allegiances, yearning desperately for peace, will Captain Vaughan and Claire Monroe forge a peace of their own against the vagaries of war and the betrayal of false friends?

Now enjoy an excerpt from TRAITOR'S LEGACY:

She fixed those wonderful eyes on him, more lethal than a backwoods rifleman. “Shall I lead the way, Captain?”

“Certainly.” He’d be tempted to follow her anywhere. A most unsettling thought.

Nothing about this fetching young lady struck Vaughan as calculating, but for the sake of her adored brother and sacred revolution he strongly suspected she’d try to deceive him. He’d hate to have to make her arrest. In fact, he should loathe it to his core. And he’d only just met her.

Why did she have such a potent effect on him, and why did it seem his fate to encounter beguiling females on the wrong side of this infernal conflict? If they weren’t Rebels to begin with, they inevitably adopted the cause.

Could he persuade Miss Monroe of her duty to the king, to him, and win her allegiance? Perhaps. She’d conducted herself splendidly thus far, and for such a prize he was willing to give his all.

Beth Trissel, Author

Married to my high school sweetheart, I live on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia surrounded by my children, grandbabies, and assorted animals. An avid gardener, my love of herbs and heirloom plants figures into my work. The rich history of Virginia, the Native Americans and the people who journeyed here from far beyond her borders are at the heart of my inspiration. In addition to American settings, I also write historical and time travel romances set in the British Isles, and nonfiction about gardening, herbal lore, and country life.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Beth-Trissel/276061290666

My Blog: http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BethTrissel

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Beth-Trissel/e/B002BLLAJ6/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1404073285&sr=1-2-ent

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/beth-trissel?store=allproducts&keyword=beth+trissel

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for stopping by!

UNINTENTIONAL BLOG TOUR

Unintentional - Book Two in the Intentional Series

by MK Harkins

One randomly chosen winner via rafflecopter during the tour will win a $50 Amazon/BN.com gift card. 

UNINTENTIONAL Blurb:

Cade, the gorgeous song man, has every reason to steer clear of commitment and train his soulful eyes, killer dimples, and sexy voice on every beauty swaying to his band. So why is it that he finds himself truly, deeply and unintentionally, fixed on the one woman who is not so easily swept away?

The sequel to Intentional, the debut romantic novel by MK Harkins, Unintentional is the heart-racing new work that follows the tangled thread of Cade in the aftermath of his heartbreak in losing the one woman he thought was his soul mate. After taking a hiatus from his job as an engineer, as well as his role in the band as lead singer, Cade reemerges in the Seattle music scene. Enter Laurel, the tenacious and determined music agent. Laurel is determined to sign him, no matter how clearly reluctant he is. Though they try to resist one another romantically, the magnetism is as immediate as it is powerful.

Unintentional offers readers an intricate, riveting story about the fraught paces of love, while also offering strains of heartwarming humor. With rich detail, authentic characters, and plenty of blood-pumping romance, Unintentional is a moving and multilayered look at how love can slip through our fingers, only to be pulled back again at the most surprising, stirring moments.

UNINTENTIONAL Excerpt:

I scan the room, taking in the atmosphere, when I notice the fourth member of the band jump onto the stage. Oh! My jaw drops as I look at him. This couldn’t be the lead singer. He’s, he’s…almost unreal. I rifle through my notes with shaking hands. Sophie prepared a bio on each one, but didn’t include pictures. Maybe if I had some warning, I wouldn’t be sitting here like some idiot with my mouth gaping open.

What the hell is wrong with me? It’s that guy, Cade, or whatever his name is. I’m so flustered, I can’t keep the pages in order. He is absolutely gorgeous! What is my problem? I’m a professional. I see good looking men all the time.

           

I look back over at Cade as he smiles at someone across the bar. Oh my God, he has dimples. Could he be any better looking? Nope. I think I just turned into a groupie. Well, maybe I’m not that far gone yet, but I’m close. I have to get control of myself. I take a deep breath in, hoping my heart will return its normal rate, exhale out. It didn’t work, so I try again.

I’m in the process of calming myself when Sophie asks, “Laurel, you feeling okay?” 

I look back at her. “Have you seen the lead singer yet?  Sophie, that man should not be legal.” 

Sophie looks up at the stage, and her expression turns to shock.  

She laughs at me. “I’d be willing to get arrested for that one!”

Good, it’s not just me. This should be an interesting night. I’m fanning myself, trying to order my body to calm down. I look over at Sophie, she’s grinning at me.

What?” I ask.

She laughs. “Oh, Laurel, this is rich! I’ve never seen you in such a state. Why don’t you go up and introduce yourself before they start?”

“No, I want to see how they perform first. Don’t you remember? We’re going to check them out first. We don’t want to waste their time or ours if they don’t cut it.” 

Sophie shrugs. “I don’t think it would be a waste. Look at them, Laurel. I know Cade is super-hot, but did you see the other one? I think his name is Ayden. Can’t we just meet them anyway? Even if they aren’t what we’re looking for, they might be in another area. You know what I mean?” She winks at me. 

Buy Link:

UNINTENTIONAL Amazon Kindle:  http://www.amazon.com/Unintentional-MK-Harkins-ebook/dp/B00KIVZP6U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1402535832&sr=8-1&keywords=mk+hARKINS

INTENTIONAL (First in the Series) - Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Intentional-MK-Harkins-ebook/dp/B00DIESJNA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1399609082&sr=8-1&keywords=Intentional

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M K Harkins, Author

 MK Harkins is the author of the romantic novel Intentional. An avid reader, she began writing fiction when she ran out of reading selections on her Kindle. Her new novel, Unintentional, is a sequel to her first work and is based on the life of the character Cade. A business owner, Harkins spends her free time traveling, watching movies, reading voraciously, in addition to creating her own fiction. The author currently lives in Mercer Island, Washington.

Website:  www.mkharkins.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mk-harkins/534181436623433

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22050125-unintentional

Twitter:https://twitter.com/mk_harkins

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MEET MY CHARACTER BLOG TOUR

Welcome to the Meet My Character Blog Tour! My friend Jacquie Rogers is the one who roped me in, er, I mean, graciously invited me to participate. So before we get to my character, Ellie Dickerson, I’d like give you the rundown on Jacquie.

Jacquie Rogers, Author

Jacquie Rogers is a former software designer, campaign manager, deli clerk, and cow milker. Her 2007 release, FAERY SPECIAL ROMANCES, won the Fall NOR Award for Best Print Sci-fi/Fantasy Romance and finaled in several other contests. She also has stories in other print anthologies as well. Her short contemporary novel, DOWN HOME EVER LOVIN’ MULE BLUES, has received several top picks and 5-star reviews. Her SLEIGHT OF HEART and the Hearts of Owyhee series have gained Jacquie a large western historical romance fan base. Her short stories for Western Fictioneers and Prairie Rose Publishing add to her ever-increasing popularity.

Jacquie teaches several workshops both online and in person, and is co-creator of 1st Turning Point, a website where authors come to teach, learn, and share—all about promotion and marketing. You can also find her at her Facebook group, Pickle Barrel Bar and Books, website, Romancing the West blog, Twitter, and Goodreads. Her Amazon Author Page lists all her books.

Whether you prefer reading paranormal or western historical romance or traditional westerns, her stories capture a rich array of emotions accompanied by a touch of her wry humor.  

MEET MY CHARACTER

Now I’ll introduce you to the heroine of MAIL ORDER PROMISE, a short western historical romance that will be included in a duet with Jacquie Rogers, MAIL ORDER TANGLE, to be released in September. (Wow, that's not far away!)

1) What is the name of your character? Is he/she fictional or a historic person?

Ellie Dickerson is fictional—except in my head. My characters are always real people to me, friends who talk to me and reveal their deepest secrets. Then I disclose those details all through the book. ☺

Ellie and Laura might have worn
dresses similar to these

2) When and where is the story set?

My story, MAIL ORDER PROMISE, opens in May 1880 near the fictional Central Texas town of Valdesta. Jacquie’s takes place a year and a half later in Owyhee County, Idaho Territory, and is titled MAIL ORDER RUCKUS.

3) What should we know about him/her?

Twenty-year-old Ellie is a redheaded, green-eyed beauty who grew up pampered near Richmond, Virginia. Her mother died when Ellie was ten, and her sister Laura cared for her. Their father’s suicide and the scandal his death unleashed left them nearly destitute and shunned by their society friends. Laura considers marrying a much older man to give them security, but Ellie won't let her beloved sister sacrifice her happiness. At the same time, she doesn't want to risk being separated from Laura, who is three years older than Ellie. On the condition that her sister can travel with her, Ellie contracts with a marriage broker as a mail order bride.

Imagine washing clothes in a pot over an
open fire wearing one of these dresses

4) What is the main conflict? What messes up his/her life?

When they arrive in Valdesta, Texas, they learn the man Ellie contracted to marry was buried only two days earlier. His handsome brother and cousin meet the girls and take them to the Rocking J ranch. Ellie has no idea whether the brother (Kage Johannsen) plans to step in and wed her. When she asks, she learns he has no intention of marrying her because he considers her spoiled and helpless with none of the grit needed to last on a ranch. She and Laura are at a loss as to what to do. Where could they go and how would they get there? Kage’s worthless cousin Olaf adds danger.

5) What is the personal goal of the character?

She needs security for her and her sister. She desires a loving husband, nice home, and the respect of those around her. Of course, as she learns more about living on a ranch, her idea of a perfect home changes from a plantation-style mansion filled with servants to a rambling Texas ranch house with Kage. But can she change his opinion of her?

6) Is there a working title for this novel, and can we read more about it?

The title of the duet is MAIL ORDER TANGLE. You can read more about both books in the duet at http://mailordertangle.blogspot.com  We don’t have much on the site yet, but the cover’s posted and there’s a blurb for each book. I love the cover, don’t you? We’ll be adding more to the website in the coming days.

7) When can we expect the book to be published?

We’re aiming for the first or second week in September. It’s an ambitious schedule, but both Jacquie and I are extremely excited for this release. It’s our first time working together, although we’ve been online friends for quite a while, and I’ve been Jacquie's fan for years. (Her SLEIGHT OF HEART and Hearts of Owyhee series are favorite books of mine). I’m honored to be included in this duet with her!

Next week (August 18), please check out these awesome writers’ characters!

Here are the authors I'm Tagging:

Carra Copelin, Author

Carra was born in Dallas, Texas and raised a few miles to the west just a stone's throw from where the Dallas Cowboys now call home. Unlike other authors, she didn't write from childhood or read long into the nights beneath the covers, but discovered romance novels as an adult. Little by little, as she read her way through hundreds of books, she discovered there were many people residing in her head. With all of them demanding their stories be told, she decided to give writing a try. From that day she was hooked and, even though life took over for a while, she's busy bringing her characters to life.

Carra is a member of Romance Writers of America and President of the Yellow Rose Romance Writers. When she’s not writing she loves creating and plotting with her fabulous critique partners, watching NCIS and NASCAR, and visiting with her three beautiful grandchildren. She and her husband reside in Arlington, Texas. You’ll find her blog on her website.

Facebook     Twitter     Website     Amazon Page     Goodreads      Pinterest     Google+

JACQUIE ROGERS

Yes, the same lovely woman who tagged me for this blog tour. I’m tagging her back because I want to learn more about her characters. Maybe she’ll share the scoop on Matt Johannsen, the hunky hero of her book. 

Pretty please?

Thanks for stopping by!

clothing photos from Pinterest