Interview & Giveaway with Donya Lynne

Donya, welcome to Books-n-Kisses. Can you please share with us a little about yourself

I live in Indianapolis, Indiana, enjoy writing with my window open even when it’s a tad nippy outside, and love listening to all kinds of music when I’m writing. And I’m a huge cat lover.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Yes. I’ve been writing since grade school, and always knew I wanted to be a writer, but it took me until I was 42 years old to become confident enough in my skills as a storyteller to take the plunge. Thankfully, the risk paid off and readers seem to like the worlds I’m creating. In hindsight, there is really nothing else I could have been than an author. Everything in my childhood, from my hobbies, to school, to the way my mind works, to my tendency to daydream stories inside my head almost nonstop, should have told me to go to college to study creative writing.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I get ideas from everywhere. Yesterday I watched a TV show called 16 and Pregnant, and while the show was still on, I was already developing a story idea in my mind. I can read about bullying in The New York Times and suddenly get an idea for a story or character. Even commercials have sparked ideas. I feel as if I can take any idea, no matter how dark or challenging, and turn it into a good story readers will want to read. I love turning hardships or the unbelievable into emotional character journeys or viable plots readers can see happening.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Return of the Assassin is book five in my award winning All the King’s Men Series and is already continuing the award-winning trend by being named a finalist in the RWA Heart of the West contest before the manuscript was even finalized.

In Return of the Assassin, the heroine, an assassin named Gina, has an abusive past that left her barren. Between the traumatic memories of her abuse and the low self-worth at the thought she can’t bear children, she has no interest in being mated again, but when she meets Malek, a flutter of desire sparks to life in her soul that she can’t ignore. But Malek is also dealing with an agonizing past. Malek was once mated, but she died. Now he’s formed a mating link to Gina that he doesn’t want to acknowledge, because he never truly accepted the death of his first mate. Divided between two desires—1) to keep his first mate’s memory intact, and 2) the need to mate Gina—Malek’s mind fractures and he falls into the vampire phenomenon known as suffering. If Malek and Gina can’t move past their fears, they’ll lose each other forever.

Plus, there is a healthy dose of danger and tension as a pair of vicious vampires hunts Gina for blood vengeance. There are lot of twists and turns in this one, and the story was very intricate since so much was happening, but I’m delighted with the final product. Return of the Assassin is a heart-wrenching story of learning to let go of the past to embrace the present and live for the future, and many readers have told me this is their favorite in the series so far, and almost all have said they needed to reach for a box of Kleenex a time or two. I always feel as though I’ve succeeded when readers tell me one of my stories touched them so deeply they cried.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Return of the Assassin was the logical progression of the series, but a lot of the plot ideas occurred to me when I decided to introduce a bunch of characters into the AKM Series from an old project I worked on but never got published. I loved the characters I created for that other project, and I thought it was a waste that they weren’t going to be seen by readers, so I decided to bring them in. A few of them get introduced in this latest book, but still more will come along later, but all of the new characters have added a wonderful richness and depth to the series, especially my bad guys. I love a good bad guy, don’t you?

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

Of course. I have a few WIPs, but the ones highest on the radar are an AKM mini-prequel that will serve as a lead-in to the first book in the series, Rise of the Fallen. Next year, I’ll begin work on the major prequel, which I’m really excited about. Other than that, book one of my upcoming Mark Strong Chronicles, Good Karma, is in its second round of edits. Good Karma is a contemporary romance with an erotic spin, and I’m in love with my main characters, Mark Strong and Karma Mason. They’re both so playful and witty. Book two of that series, Bad Karma, is in the draft phase, as is the next book in the AKM Series, Bound Guardian Angel. BGA is Trace’s book, and fans have been dying for this one since book one, and from what I’m getting from the characters, it won’t disappoint. I already drafted one of the love scenes, and I think readers will have to peel themselves off the ceiling when they read it.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

There are so many, but I think I’d like to meet Stephen King, even though I haven’t read but a couple of his books. But he’s the master, and he’s so inspiring. I also like that he says it like it is. People who don’t mince words are refreshing.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

KNOW WHAT READERS WANT and give it to them. Writing is not for someone who only cares about making him/herself happy and/or rich. There is something known as the writer/reader agreement, and every author who publishes a book enters into it. This agreement states that the author agrees to give the readers what they want and that their story will be well-written, well-edited, entertaining, and will follow the rules specific to its genre (ie. In romance, there is always a happily ever after; otherwise, it’s not romance. In erotica, the sexual relationship comes first, the romance (if any) is second. Each genre comes with a set of “rules” the author must follow or she/he breaks their agreement with the reader). Writers must write with the readers in mind. Those who don’t, fail. So, it’s highly advisable to study good writing technique specific to the genre the author is interested in so he or she can learn what the readers want.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I would love to be a cat breeder someday. When I was a kid, we had tons of cats, and I loved when a new litter was born. Another item on my bucket list is to visit Italy someday, and the hubby and I want to take an RV and travel across the country. That would be a treat.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I can’t wait for Gayle Forman’s next book, the sequel to Just One Day. That book was unputdownable, and I’ve been waiting impatiently for the sequel for months. Forman has become my new favorite author. Another book I’m looking forward to is the final book in The Taker Trilogy by Alma Katsu. The first two books were spellbinding and so well written. She is a gifted writer and a joy to read.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just that Micah wants to say hi to all the ladies out there. He’s a hoot, and right now, in my head, he’s got his shirt off and a bottle of baby oil in his hand, with this wicked, mischievous look on his face, as if he’s teasing everyone that he’s going to oil himself down and do a striptease.*sigh* Micah, Micah, Micah. He’s my most intense character, but also the biggest clown.

*****

Return of the Assassin

All the King’s Men – Book 5

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | All Romance eBooks

3rd place winner – RWA Heart of the West contest

“If you’ve been waiting for the next Black Dagger Brotherhood, this is it…” -GraveTells Review

Assassin Gina Carano doesn’t have time for love. In fact, the last thing she wants is a mate. But Gina can’t stop thinking about Malek, the handsome AKM enforcer she met in Chicago. And now she’s beginning to fear Malek’s memory is the reason for her crippling panic attacks, which have assaulted her relentlessly since she left him.

Malek has never dealt with the centuries-old death of his first mate, but now that he’s formed a new mating link to Gina, he has no choice. Stuck between the agony of mourning and the despair of being without Gina, his mind fractures as he attempts to reconcile the two halves of himself.

When Gina botches a hit on two vicious vampires in Miami, she reluctantly flees back to Chicago, where Malek must choose between the past and the future before he loses Gina forever.

Warning: This book contains explicit sexual content, sensitive subject matter, references to non-traditional/alternative lifestyles, and profanity.

Donya Lynne Bio

Donya Lynne is the author of the award winning All the King’s Men Series. Making her home in a wooded suburb north of Indianapolis with her husband, Donya has lived in Indiana most of her life and knew at a young age that she was destined to be a writer. She started writing poetry in grade school and won her first short story contest in fourth grade. In junior high, she began writing romantic stories for her friends, and by her sophomore year, they had dubbed her Most Likely to Become a Romance Novelist. In 2012, she made that dream come true by publishing her first two novels and two novellas. She has several more stories planned for the AKM Series, as well as two sister series that are in development.

Author Links: Donya Lynne Fan Page | AKM Reader Group | Donya Lynne Profile | Donya Lynne’s Blog | Donya Lynne’s Website

*****

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!

I have one e-copy of Return of the Assassin to giveaway. To Enter please fill out the 1st Rafflecopter below (2nd is for Grand prize drawing)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Two Grand Prizes will be given away at the end of the tour, drawing to be held on Christmas Day (Merry Christmas!). A rafflecopter code is included below for each blogger to include in their post. The first name drawn will have their choice of the following two prizes, and the second name drawn will receive the other. The two prizes are valued at $210 each and include:

Grand Prize #1: Coach bag and a $50 Amazon gift card

Grand Prize #2: The newest version of the Kindle Paper White, leather cover (winner’s choice of color), and an AKM blanket

Grand Prize Rafflecopter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DATE	BLOG
11/4/2013	GraveTells
11/4/2013	Talk Supe
11/5/2013	Pimpin’ Reads
11/5/2013	Obsession is a Book
11/6/2013	I Smell Sheep
11/7/2013	The Reading Cafe
11/8/2013	Reading Between the Wines Book Club
11/9/2013	The Jeep Diva
11/11/2013	Confessions of a Book Heaux
11/12/2013	Book Addict Mumma
11/13/2013	Mad Hatter Reads
11/14/2013	Read-Love-Blog
11/15/2013	Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
11/18/2013	Paranormal Book Club
11/19/2013	Romance Book Craze
11/20/2013	Love of Bookends
11/21/2013	Book Lovin’ Mamas
11/22/2013	Page Flipperz
11/25/2013	Ramblings from this Chick
11/26/2013	Books-n-Kisses
12/1/2013	The Pen Muse
12/2/2013	My Secret Romance Book Reviews
12/3/2013	Close Encounters with the Night Kind
12/3/2013	Cocktails and Books
12/4/2013	Smut Book Junkie
12/5/2013	Dark Desire’s Book Blog
12/6/2013	Satin Sheets Romance
12/9/2013	Lisa T Jung – Read Me
12/10/2013	Night Owl Reviews
12/11/2013	Smexy Books
12/12/2013	Lisa Bilbrey
12/13/2013	Feisty Girls Book Blog
12/15/2013	Morning After a Good Book
12/16/2013	Author’s Corner Blog
12/17/2013	Book Junky Girls
12/18/2013	Alexx Mom Cat’s Gateway Book Blog
12/19/2013	Author Connie Rhinehart

November 25, 2013November 8, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Anne Elizabeth

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcom Anne Elizabeth to the blog today to chat about her newest release.

Anne, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m a Navy wife, a step-mother, a grandmother, a romance writer, a columnist, and a comic creator. I have a BS in Business and A MS in Communications from Boston University. I am a member of the Author’s Guild and RWA as well as a regular presenter at RT Book Lovers Convention. My contemporary romance is for adults and focuses on Spec Ops and Navy SEALS, and my paranormal comics are geared toward teens. I like the outdoors and we have an exuberant yellow Lab. My husband and I volunteer for the California State Parks, and we enjoy the quiet.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a published author. My mother tells this adorable story…when I was three I taught myself to read, because I had stories I wanted to put into books. Unfortunately, it took considerably longer to figure out how to write and get them into actual story form.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I can write anywhere. I’ve huddled over my laptop and worked in airports, comic-cons, restaurants, coffee shops, military air terminals, and all sorts of odd places. When work calls, you have to hunker down and do it with a flare. 🙂

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Every woman dreams of marrying the perfect man—handsome, thoughtful, strong, and sensitive —and Aria Kavanagh believes she’s found the ultimate hero in Petty Officer Second Class Daniel McCullum. But being a U.S. Navy SEAL wife is a serious challenge, especially when the missions are putting more than their love in the line of fire. Can they jump the hurdles and handle the daily rigors without falling apart? Or will the pressures attached to the handsome uniform have them both questioning if their dedication is worth it? Every moment matters when the only thing that truly lasts is love.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

The first question most fans ask me is…what is it like being married to a Navy SEAL? So, I asked my editor if I could write a story that was out-of-the-box of the normal romance novel. Could I give fans exactly what they requested? My editor at the time was Leah Hultenschmidt, who is a brilliant editor that adored the concept and encouraged me on this unusual path. So, I spoke with many SEAL, Air Force, Army, and Marine wives, and they added to my story. I hope fans enjoy ONCE A SEAL as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I am in edits for my third SEAL book called A SEAL FOREVER. Enclosed is a sneak peak of the cover. It’s about a SEAL that loses his leg in combat. This book is very dear to my heart as we see more and more active duty military coming home with injuries. I want the public to know these men for the heroes they are, and to celebrate their sacrifice, their sexiness, and their strength.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

I’d like to spend time chatting with Nora Roberts. I met her briefly at a RWA Convention, but never had the chance to ask her the multitude of questions that were bubbling in my brain.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Set goals for yourself and stick to them. Take yourself seriously and work through an entire manuscript and then seek feedback, whether that is through an editor or contests, a critique group, and/or friends. Then, submit, submit, submit. Also, realize that being able to take criticism and feedback is part of this job. In creative fields, there will always be opinions that differ from your own, and that can be great. It starts a dialog and who knows where that dialog where go.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I’ve actually been working on my bucket list this past year. I’ve already jumped from a plane, flown a Mooney plane, flown a glider, kayaked in the ocean, snorkeled with sharks, and swam with sea turtles. I have a list of hikes and places I’d like to visit such as going back to Scotland.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I recently received Anne Rice’s new werewolf novel. It’s on the top of my pile—some books get to jump the line— and it’s my treat for when I finish this next chunk of work. Rice is a brilliant author, and I enjoy her dynamic writing.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

For more info on AE’s fiction and comics, please check out her website at www.AnneElizabeth.net or https://www.facebook.com/aeauthorfanpage. Also, if you’re attending Comic-Con International in 2014, make sure you stop by her booth as they always have special gifts for romance lovers.

Thank you for having me on Books-n-Kisses! Xoxo ~AE

A little more about Anne:

Anne Elizabeth is an award winning romance author, the creator of the teen PULSE OF POWER comic book series, and the Columnist on Comics, Manga, and Graphics Novels for RT BOOK REVIEWS magazine. With a BS in Business and MS in Communications from Boston University, she is a regular presenter at the RT Book Lovers Convention as well as a member of the Authors Guild and Romance Writers of America. Her published credits include stories with Atria/Simon & Schuster, Highland Press, Dynamite Entertainment, Sea Lion Books, Bravo Zulu Studios, LLC, and Sourcebooks, Inc. She grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut, and now lives in the mountains above San Diego with her husband, a retired Navy SEAL. In her free time, she is also a serious Amelia Earhart who is always on the hunt for a new adventure. Catch AE on the Web at AnneElizabeth.net.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 22, 2013November 21, 2013

A Late Thaw Blog Tour and Giveaway

I have Ana Blaze here today to talk about her new release, A Late Thaw. This is a hot and steamy novella that I just couldn’t put down and I love the idea of Joe Manganiello as Cole. 🙂

1. Tell me about your new release.

A Late Thaw is a friends-to-lovers story set in a very small town in Vermont.

2. Where did you come up with the idea for this book?

I think I had the setting first. I went to college in a small town in Vermont and it holds a special place in my heart. I’m also particularly fond of stories about friends who finally admit their feelings and get their happy endings, so this little tale is very much a “me” kind of story. I was also thinking a little bit about the tough road some guys have to plow, trying to be chivalrous but still respectful. That’s a bit of a challenge for Cole. He always means well, but he doesn’t always express himself well when it comes to the woman he loves. So he thinks that if he can help her he should, and she thinks he’s a bit over-bearing. I find that to be an interesting dynamic. She’s sort of fiercely independent and he loves that about her but doesn’t know quite where that leaves him.

3. Do you have any actors in mind when you are writing these characters?

I basically pictured a young Joe Manganiello. I think he has an almost universal appeal. He’s handsome, but not too pretty and he looks like he could rescue people from a burning building but that he’d also stop and scoop up kittens on his way out. That’s the ideal man, right? Just me? Oh.

As for an actress, I don’t think I really pictured one whilst writing, but I’d say Sarah Bolger has the right look. Maybe if I give a description, readers can give recommendations in the comments? What do you say? Kiley is thin and about average height, maybe a little taller. She has pale skin, straight brown hair, grey-blue eyes and a modest chest.

4. What are you working on now?

I have two big projects in the works right now. The first is a contemporary NA romance set in a small college in upstate NY (so not so far from the type of school I attended) and the second is a paranormal romance with vampires and a touch of suspense. I love vampires. I’m the reason they keep making more vampire television shows.

5. Do you have any other authors that you feel influence you and your writing?

I read a ton and I’d say that when you’re a writer most everything you read influences you at least a little, so why don’t I just list some of my favorite authors. I love: Anne Rice, Nora Roberts, Kelley Armstrong, Rachel Caine, Patricia Briggs, Charlaine Harris, Jill Shalvis, Sophie Moss, Richelle Mead, Jane Austen, Oscar Wilde, D.D. Barant, Mary Janice Davidson and J.K. Rowling.

6. Favorite junk food? Or what food or drink do you absolutely have to have while writing?

Diet Coke. I love Diet Coke. When it’s cold, I like to sip tea (Earl Grey!) in my disappearing Tardis mug.

7. Any advice for aspiring writers?

Finish the story. I think a lot of writers are perfectionists and it’s easy to get all caught up trying to write a perfect first draft and then never finish it. That makes me sad, I think there are some great stories out there that are waiting to be told by writers who are holding themselves back. Just write it. The perfecting (which is never done) happens later. You need a first draft to move forward. So write a first draft and then find a couple of great beta readers.

Thank you so much for answering my questions.

Thank you so much for having me!

About the Author:

Ana lives just outside Washington DC with her very supportive husband and three rather demanding cats. She loves the ocean, Indian food, Ikea and cooking. Ana admits to watching too much television and she swears that someday she’s going to learn how to play the guitar resting on the bookshelf in her office.

Blog/Twitter/Facebook/Pinterest

The town’s too small for Kiley St. Claire’s reappearance to be a surprise, still seeing her hits Cole Thomas like a punch to the gut. She ripped his heart apart when she turned to ice and ran away all those years ago. Now that she’s back, Cole’s going to say his piece and move on.

Even if she does look damn good in that uniform.

Kiley St. Claire is back in the small town of Barrett, Vermont, for one reason and one reason only: to earn some cash so she can survive her final semester of grad school. She’s not there for the sexy Christmas tree farmers.

Even the one who once held her heart.

Amazon/BN/Goodreads

Jennifer’s Review of A Late Thaw

Review (4.5 Stars): I fell in love with Cole right away after starting A Late Thaw. He was sexy, strong and only had eyes for Kiley, when he could have any woman that he wanted. He and Kiley made a great couple, who once started out as childhood friends but grew apart because of a teenage misunderstanding. They had great chemistry together and I loved how they both had feelings for one another but never really acted on them.

Ana Blaze has created a fun light-hearted romance that will immediately captivate you. I love her style of writing and I connected with her characters right away. A Late Thaw is a perfect little romance and I absolutely can’t wait to read more great stories from Ms. Blaze.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 22, 2013November 11, 2013

Carrie Ann Ryan is interviewing Leslie from her new novella His Choice

Hi! Thank you all for coming to hear a little bit about my novella HIS CHOICE. I’m sitting down with Leslie, my heroine who not only is in this novella, but is also in AN UNLUCKY MOON.

Carrie Ann: Hi Leslie! Thank you for sitting with me.

Leslie: Thank you for having me.

Carrie Ann: So tell me about Fawkes. He’s a cutie, isn’t he?

Leslie: *blushes* Oh totally. He might be younger than me, but since we live for hundreds of years, it really doesn’t matter. We’ve been through so much on our own that it only makes sense that when we came together we found our way.

Carrie Ann: What was your first impression of him?

Leslie: That he looked lost.

Carrie Ann: Knowing what we know now, that totally makes sense. I’m glad you found him.

Leslie: I’m glad he found me.

Carrie Ann: What’s your favorite part about him?

Leslie: His laugh. He’s sense of humor rocks.

Carrie Ann: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Leslie: Rocky Road. It fits. You know? Plus I dig the marshmallows.

From five bestselling authors comes five brand new novellas sure to heat up the night.

From Carrie Ann Ryan‘s Dante’s Circle series, a demon from the fiery depths of hell must make his choice to follow in the footsteps of his father or love the submissive wolf who lays claim to his heart in His Choice.

From Marie Harte‘s Beasts of Burden, Eira, a fierce valkyrie, has spent fifty years trying to get a rise out of her goddess’s guardians. But when the battle-cat shifters give her what she wants, can she handle the heat—and the danger—that comes from loving them?

From Rebecca Royce‘s brand new series, the Alphas of each werewolf Pack are on the brink of war. Travis Michaels will use all in his power to keep innocent Lilliana out of danger and into his arms…away from rival Alpha Cyrus Fennell.

From Lia Davis’s Ashwood Falls series, buried pain, old lies, and dangerous secrets aren’t enough to keep the sparks from flying as Sarah Mathews and rebel leader, Damian Palmer, try to survive a new threat against their race.

From Leia Shaw’s Shadows of Destiny series, a war is brewing in the supernatural world. Rebel shifter Dalton’s only passion is protecting the colony, and flirtatious misfit, Eden, is a distraction he can’t afford. But as danger approaches, he learns that underestimating the sexy little wolf is a big mistake.

A little about Carrie Ann Ryan:

USA Today Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan never thought she’d be a writer. Not really. No, she loved math and science and even went on to graduate school in chemistry. Yes, she read as a kid and devoured teen fiction and Harry Potter, but it wasn’t until someone handed her a romance book in her late teens that she realized that there was something out there just for her. When another author suggested she use the voices in her head for good and not evil, The Redwood Pack and all her other stories were born.

Carrie Ann is a bestselling author of over twenty novels and novellas and has so much more on her mind (and on her spreadsheets *grins*) that she isn’t planning on giving up her dream anytime soon.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at: Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 21, 2013November 21, 2013

Guest Blog with Kristina McMorris

Since today is bestselling author Kristina McMorris’ birthday, she’s here to tell us 10 things birthday celebrations and books have in common:

1. Both are better enjoyed with a glass of wine. Sometimes several.

2. On occasion, when reflecting years later, you remember them being much better than they actually were.

3. Both were made to be shared with loved ones.

4. After a certain number, most of them become a blur.

5. They don’t always end with a happily ever after. (Particularly when tequila is involved.)

6. When it’s the best one ever, you want to tell everyone about it. When it’s the worst one ever, you also find yourself telling everyone about it.

7. Some pass with quiet pleasantness. Some are light and fun. Others offer nonstop, edge-of-your-seat excitement. All of these can be equally wonderful.

8. The good ones end too quickly, the bad ones always last WAY too long.

9. Both can lead you on a journey that keeps you up until the wee hours of morning.

10. Finishing a great one often leaves you with a bittersweet feeling of parting with good friends.

Here is a look at the video for Kristina’s book

www.tinyurl.com/TPWK1

The Pieces We Keep

AUTHOR: Kristina McMorris

PUBLICATION DATE: November 26, 2013
Amazon | B&N

In this richly emotional novel, acclaimed author Kristina McMorris evokes the depth of a mother’s bond with her child, and the power of personal histories to echo through generations.
Two years have done little to ease veterinarian Audra Hughes’s grief over her husband’s untimely death. Eager for a fresh start, Audra plans to leave Portland for a new job in Philadelphia. Her seven-year-old son, Jack, seems apprehensive about flying—but it’s just the beginning of an anxiety that grows to consume him.
As Jack’s fears continue to surface in recurring and violent nightmares, Audra hardly recognizes the introverted boy he has become. Desperate, she traces snippets of information unearthed in Jack’s dreams, leading her to Sean Malloy, a struggling US Army veteran wounded in Afghanistan. Together they unravel a mystery dating back to World War II, and uncover old family secrets that still have the strength to wound—and perhaps, at last, to heal.

A little about Kristina:
Kristina McMorris lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Her foray into fiction began in the fall of 2006 as a result of interviewing her grandmother for the biographical section of a self-published cookbook intended as a holiday gift for the family. Inspired by her grandparents’ wartime courtship, Kristina penned her first novel, a WWII love story titled Letters from Home.

Praised by Woman’s Day and hailed by Publishers Weekly as “a sweeping debut,” Letters from Home was released in spring 2011 by Kensington Books and Avon/HarperCollins UK. Rights have been sold to numerous foreign publishers, Readers Digest, Doubleday, the Literary Guild, and more. Kristina’s second novel, Bridge of Scarlet Leaves, was published in spring 2012 to equally high critical acclaim. Most recently, her novella, “The Christmas Collector,” appeared in the New York Times and USA Today bestselling anthology A Winter Wonderland. Her forthcoming novel,

The Pieces We Keep, will be released December 2013, and her novelette, “The Reunion,” will be featured in the anthology titled Grand Central (Berkley/Penguin, July 2014).
Prior to her career as an author, Kristina acted in many independent films and major motion pictures and owned a professional wedding/event planning company. She began hosting an Emmy®

Award-winning television show at age nine and later served as the six-year host of the WB’s weekly program Weddings Portland Style. Her previous writing background includes being a contributing writer for Portland Bride & Groom magazine and ten years of directing public relations for an international conglomerate. A recipient of more than twenty national literary awards and a nominee for the prestigious RITA® Award, McMorris is currently working on her next novel.

Want to learn more about Kristina? You can find her here:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

November 21, 2013November 14, 2013

Guest Blogger: Cynthia Eden

The Troubles with writing a Christmas story in the fall

Hi, everyone! Thanks so much for coming by today! I’m excited to be talking about my new book, A VAMPIRE’S CHRISTMAS CAROL…or rather, the writing process for that book. 😉

A few months ago, I realized that I had time in my schedule to write an extra novella, and I let my fans vote on that novella–did they want a holiday romantic suspense tale or a holiday paranormal? The votes can in, and it was decided that I’d write a holiday tale about vampires.

I was super excited! I love vampires! And, hey, it was early October then. A great time to write about vampires.

But…this particular story needed to take place on Christmas Eve, not Halloween. So while all my Halloween decorations definitely helped to get me in a paranormal frame of mind, they didn’t exactly inspire the Christmas spirit.

So…I had to improvise a wee bit. Before I started writing each day, I listened to some holiday tunes. I watched clips of old Saturday Night Live holiday specials on YouTube. I found myself humming Frosty the Snowman as I stood in the check-out line to get my Halloween candy.

I might have been exercising some extreme Christmas Creep, but I was getting my holiday mojo on!

The problem with that mojo? I found myself actually wanting to put up my Christmas tree…ahem, on October 15. My son and husband talked me down, but it was a very near thing.

Ah, Christmas stories…they can sure put you in the holiday mood. Even if that mood strikes a wee bit early…

What about you, though? When does the holiday mood strike you? Is it when you see the decorations in the stores? When you buy the first present of the season?

Thanks, again, for checking out the post!

Best,

Cynthia Eden

A Vampire’s Christmas Carol (Novella)

by Cynthia Eden

Amazon| B&N |KOBO

This holiday season has bite.Ben Prescott hates Christmas—he’s a vampire, and to him, there’s certainly nothing jolly about the holiday season. While the humans are running around being merry, he’s hunting in the shadows. Ben plans to spend the holidays his way…by stalking deadly prey.But fate has other plans for Ben.

Three visitors are coming Ben’s way…A demon who will force Ben to face his past, a ghost who will show Ben the present he could have, and a shifter who will reveal the darkness that waits in Ben’s future. Unless Ben can change his ways, he may just turn into a real monster, one who can’t be saved by anyone or anything.

‘Tis the season…to be undead.

Ben’s redemption rests in the hands of the one woman he loved and lost—Simone Laurent. If Ben is going to have a chance at being more than just the beast in the darkness, he has to prove himself to the lovely Simone. A very hard task, considering that, once upon a Christmas Eve, Simone died in Ben’s arms…

Warning:
This book features one very tortured vampire, a sexy ghost from his past, and hot scenes designed to melt the winter snow. Plenty of action, adult situations, and steamy times are ahead. Happy holidays!

Available for purchase at

Excerpt

Lust clawed through him. The need, the red-hot desire, seemed to
burn Ben from the inside. He grabbed
Simone, yanked her flush against him. His mouth locked on hers. He’d always
tried to be so careful with her in the past. Played the gentleman because she mattered.

He wasn’t
a gentleman any longer. Ben wasn’t even sure what he was. He just knew he
needed Simone naked, and he had to be in her.

He carried her back to his
bedroom. He ignored the glittering New York skyline. She was the only thing he
could see. Desire pounded through him. His cock was so swollen that he hurt
and—

His teeth were extending.
Stretching in his mouth.

Ben dropped Simone on the bed
and stepped back, horrified.

“Ben?” Simone sat up on the bed and pushed back the
blonde hair that had tumbled forward. “What’s wrong?”
She was so gorgeous and
sexy staring up at him. Looking at him
with those wide, dark eyes.

I’m going to hurt her. He grabbed for the control that he’d always
held so easily in the past. Only that control was broken. Shattered. “You need
to leave.”

About the Author

USA Today Best-selling author Cynthia Eden has written over twenty-five novels and novellas. She was named as a 2013 RITA^® finalist for her paranormal romance, ANGEL IN CHAINS, and, in 2011, Cynthia Eden was a RITA finalist for her romantic suspense, DEADLY FEAR.

Cynthia is a southern girl who loves horror movies, chocolate, and happy endings. She has always wanted to write (don’t most authors say that?), and particularly enjoys creating stories about monsters–vampires, werewolves, and even the real-life monsters that populate her romantic suspense stories.

Cynthia’s foreign sales for her books include translations to Japan, Germany, Thailand, Greece, and Brazil.

(Back in the day…) Cynthia graduated summa cum laude from the University of South Alabama where she studied Sociology (because people interest her) and Communication (because she likes to write about said people). Cynthia has worked as a college admissions counselor, a teacher, and as an editor. But now, Cynthia is thrilled to be spending her days making up stories.

Giveaway

A $100 Gift Card to Amazon or Barnes & Noble

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Presented By

November 20, 2013November 18, 2013

Guest blogger: Cindy McDonald

Change of Life

I’ve had several bloggers ask me to write the article: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN AUTHOR. And while that is kind-of, sort-of an interesting subject—I think I’m going to write an article called: THE DIFFERENCE IN A DAY OF MY LIFE SINCE BECOMING AN AUTHOR—because whoa, has my life changed!

As the bio on the back of my books and on my website reads: For twenty-six years my life whirled around a song and a dance: I was a professional dancer and choreographer for most of my adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. What was a day in my life like as professional dancer? Well, it was considerably different than it is now. Let me show you…

When I was a dancer I would get up at my leisure, have a cup of coffee, some breakfast, and then I would work-out with weights and an elliptical for an hour. I would spend the next few hours doing what was required around the house. By 2:30 I was at the auditorium working with the cast of whatever musical I was choreographing, and by 3:45 I was in my car on my way to my dance school to greet my first round of students by 4:00. I would teach an entire schedule of ballet/pointe, jazz, and tap classes until approximately 9:30. I taught at my dance school Monday through Thursday and rehearsed musicals Monday throughSaturday.

Whew! Just thinking about it makes me sweat.

After twenty-six years I was ready to do something else with my life, and in 2005 I had started writing. In 2011 I published the first book of my first series, Unbridled. There are four books in that series thus far with another coming in January of 2014, and of course I now write another series, First Force—the first book from that series has just released, INTO THE CROSSFIRE. In May of 2011 I retired from my dance career. It was a scary proposition to leave the lifestyle that I lived for so long, but change was something that I was ready to embrace.

My life is much different now. It’s…quieter. I get up every morning, drink coffee, workout with weights and my elliptical—sometimes I take my dog for a run, and then I settled in my chair to wrangle with all the social networking sites to market my books. By 11:00am I am usually in my office with my glasses parked on my nose dragging my characters into one debacle or another. It’s quiet…well, until the bullets start flying and my characters are diving for cover. Of course I take time out over the course of the afternoon to check my email, market, market, and more marketing for my books, and then there’s dinner that I must prepare—another change in my life. When I was a dancer I never cooked dinner because I was always at the dance school during the dinner hour. To tell you the truth, teaching myself to prepare dinner every night has been more of a challenge than writing—my husband will gladly confirm that for you.

I’ve experienced a lot of things in the last two years: attending conventions, talking with groups, attending book festivals, and my favorite: virtual book tours—I just love them!

People are always asking me, “Do you miss dance?” Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, and quite frankly all the applause. Nevertheless I love my books, and I love sharing them with you.

A notorious killer leaves Jack Haliday’s world in shambles.

It has been four years since ex Navy SEAL, Jack Haliday, had an explosive run-in with a biker gang, wounding their leader, Gunner. During those years Jack had acquired everything he ever wanted: a beautiful wife, an adorable daughter, and a lovely home in the suburbs—everything was just about as perfect as it could get, until Gunner returned to twist Jack Haliday’s world inside-out with a vengeance that he could never have prepared for.

Now Jack has a score to settle and he’s got some friends to help him do it!

Purchase your copy at AMAZON.

Discuss this book in our PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads by clicking HERE.

About the Author:

For twenty-six years Cindy’s life whirled around a song and a dance: she was a professional dancer/choreographer for most of her adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. She often notes: Don’t ask me what happened, but suddenly I felt drawn to my computer to write about things I have experienced (greatly exaggerated upon of course—I’ve never been murdered!) with my husband’s Thoroughbreds and happenings at the racetrack. Viola! Cindy’s first book series, Unbridled, was born—there are four books to that series so far.

Cindy is a huge fan of romantic suspense series, and although she isn’t one to make New Year’s resolutions, on New Year’s Day 2013 she made a commitment to write one, Into the Crossfire is the first book for her new series, First Force.

People are always asking Cindy: do you miss dance? With a bitter sweet smile on her lips she tells them: Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, but I love my books, and I love sharing them with you.

For more information, book trailers, and excerpts for all of Cindy’s books please visit her website: www.cindymcwriter.com.

Connect & Socialize with Cindy!

TWITTER | FACEBOOK

*****

Kelly’s review of Into The Crossfire

TITLE: Into the Crossfire
SERIES #: First Focus #1
CHARACTERS: Jack Haliday
AUTHOR: Cindy McDonald
PUBLICATION DATE: September 24, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
It has been four years since ex-Navy SEAL Jack Haliday, had an explosive run-in with a biker gang, wounding their leader, Gunner. During those years, Jack had acquired everything he ever wanted: a beautiful wife, daughter, and a lovely home in the suburbs–everything was just about as perfect as it could get, until Gunner returned to twist Jack’s world inside-out with a vengeance that he could never have prepared for. Now Jack has a score to settle and he’s got some friends to help him do it

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 1/2
REVIEW:
Jack Haliday has always known his job could be dangerous. But he never realized just how dangerous it could end up being until the day that his world was turned completely upside down and he lost everything.

This was an okay book for me. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters but there was something missing for me. I just never really connected with it over all. But fan’s of suspense novels would enjoy this story.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 18, 2013November 8, 2013

Tempting His Mate by Savannah Stuart Blog Tour

Tempting His Mate

by Katie Reus

Genre: Paranormal romance

Tone: sexy romance

Elements/Tags: sexy paranormal romance

Heat Level: sexy

Series: Crescent Moon series, #3

Publisher: Savannah Stuart

Pub. Date: November 18, 2013

Length: 25,000 words (novella)

She ran from him once…

Wild one night stands are not Ella Hayes’s style, but with her confidence at rock bottom after a devastating betrayal and her painful departure from her jaguar pride, who could blame her for falling into bed with a sexy wolf? She never thought she’d see him again. And never in her craziest dreams did she expect to come face-to-face with him on her first day with the Kincaid wolf pack. Sleeping with Asher had been one of the most intense experiences of her life—but now she wonders if they could have more.

He’s not letting her go again…

Tired of life as a lone wolf, shifter Asher has joined his cousin’s pack. The last person he expected to see was the sexy woman who ran out on him in the middle of the most incredible night of his life. The Ella he meets now is nothing like the wild, sensual woman he let his guard down with, but he likes both sides of the complicated female. But now somebody—or something—sinister is targeting Ella, and Asher moves quickly to get her under his roof and under his protection. Keeping the sexy female safe and proving they belong together are two missions he doesn’t plan to fail. Because this time, he’s playing for keeps.

For the past six months—okay, way longer than that—she’d been feeling restless and ready to move away from her pride anyhow. Her sister’s mating had been the perfect excuse for her to pack up and head down to Gulf Shores, Alabama to live with her cousin, Lauren. Well, not with her, since Lauren was newly mated, but Ella was joining her cousin’s new wolf pack of all things.

Her cousin had mated a wolf and was now part of their pack. Once Lauren heard she was looking for a change she’d almost come up and packed Ella herself. And Lauren had refused to come to the wedding out of a sense of sisterhood. It didn’t matter that they weren’t actual sisters, Ella and Lauren had grown up closer than Ella had to her own younger sister.

Clearly.

She wasn’t expected for another two days so Ella had decided to take her time and tonight she’d stopped at a well known shifter bar in Montgomery. No humans were allowed in so shifters were free to be who they were. She’d never been, but had heard wild stories about it. Wild wasn’t normally her thing, but tonight it was perfect because she was ready to let her inhibitions loose. Just for one night.

As she motioned to the bartender for another shot, she glanced in the mirror above the bar and saw a sexy as sin shifter leaning against one of the six pool tables, stick in hand, as another man racked their balls. He wasn’t overtly tall, but he was broad—really broad, with muscular shoulders and biceps she could imagine running her fingers across. His dark hair reached his jaw line. Normally she didn’t care for long hair on a man, but on him it looked perfect. With about two days worth of stubble on his defined jaw, wearing faded jeans, a black leather jacket and shit kickers, he almost looked like a bad boy cliché. Tall, dark, sexy and a little brooding. Yes, please.

Her gaze traveled up from those beat up shit kickers, over the length of that powerful body to land on that insanely handsome face again and she realized he was looking right at her. With piercing green eyes, there was no mistaking it when they caught hers in the mirror.

Thanks to her shifter sight, there wasn’t even a doubt he was watching her. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared at him, completely snared. One of the men at the pool table said something and briefly diverted his attention, releasing her from that stare. It was like she’d been released from a trance. For just a moment everything around her had funneled out; sounds, sights, scents and anything not Mr. Sexy.

Meet Author Savannah Stuart:

Savannah Stuart is the pseudonym of New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katie Reus. Under this name she writes slightly hotter romance than her mainstream books. Her stories still have a touch of intrigue, suspense, or the paranormal and the one thing she always includes is a happy ending. She lives in the South with her very own real life hero. In addition to writing (and reading of course!) she loves traveling with her husband.

If you have any questions about her upcoming releases or her current books, please email her through her contact page.

Connect with Savannah (and Katie) at:

Website (Savannah) | Facebook (Savannah)

Website (Katie) | Facebook (Katie) | Twitter (Katie)

Tour Wide Giveaway:

(5) Digital copies of TAMING THE ALPHA, (5) Digital copies of CLAIMING HIS MATE, (5) Digital copies of TEMPTING HIS MATE; (1) GRAND PIRZE: $50 eGC to Amazon.com or B&N.com. Please follow the Rafflecopter directions and Terms & Conditions.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Stops:

http://events.litconnect.com/tempting-his-mate-by-savannah-stuart/

November 15, 2013November 11, 2013

Interview with JN Johnson

Can you please share with us a little about yourself

There isn’t really that much to tell. I am a mother of two beautiful daughters who keep me busy with school homework and volunteering. I have been married to my high school sweetheart going on fourteen years. When I am not with them hiking, fishing or watching cartoons I am a hermit.

Have you always wanted to be an author?
No actually I haven’t always wanted to be an author. My goal as a child was to be a dentist. I wanted to be the one thing I feared the most so that other kids wouldn’t be scared. Writing was always there in the back of my mind. I had a friend that I used to write short stories with when I was 13 or 14 years old. We kept these old spiral notebooks full of adventures that we only wished we could have. I always thought she would be the one with her name on a book one day.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

Interesting? I am a pretty boring writer. I tend to sit down when the house is empty to write. I have the normal desk beside a window and I totally pants each and every story. But for a quirk I would say I like to have the tv on for background noise, Dean and Sam are my writing partners. Oh and lemonheads are a must while writing.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Ravens Legacy is my twist on the Ugly Duckling. Raven was adopted into a shifter community as an infant and longs for the one things she doesn’t have, an inner beast. She feels pressure from her father to find her mate and to try and fit in. One tiny accident that would be nothing but a splinter to anyone else causes her world to flip flop upside down. When the power of the Goddess unlocks her hidden inner self she is thrown into a whirlwind of drama. Not only is there a hot steamy man who drives her crazy but there is a villain who wants to chop her head off and use her blood to bring forth more evil. I hope that makes sense J

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I think I started Raven as a sort of therapy for me. After my daughter and I were in a house fire I have had issues with dealing with the smell of smoke and the heat of fires even if they are contained. I think this was my way of having power of that element. Now Raven was a total surprise. One day I sat down at my computer and started typing, a few hours later the story was born. I sat back wowed at what I had done and it just kept getting better from there.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

Currently I am working to see where this crazy journey is taking my dear Raven in the second Between Fire and Ice Novella. She keeps telling me that she needs to do this and I keep saying no do this but she is winning. I am also working on another shifter book that I have been throwing around for awhile. But that is still too new to share.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

Jane Austen, I want the answer to the age old question. Did she have a lover and if not how the hell did she write men like that without a muse?
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Don’t stop. Take lots of advice and do your homework. It is a tough industry and you need thick skin to make it but the end result is so worth it.Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

My husband and I wrote our bucket lists when we were married, we have marked a few things off but going to Ireland is on there for us both. Someday…

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I am waiting for the next Chicagoland Vampire by Chloe Neill and the next Hollows book by Kim Harrison, it seems to be taking forever for them to be released!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much for having me on here today. I hope that you and your readers enjoy Ravens Legacy, she was fun to write and I hope that you come back to see where this crazy roller coaster takes me!

*****

Raven’s Legacy

J.N. Johnson

Raven Corvus has always felt like she was on the outside looking in. Being adopted into a family of shifters without the ability to shift has put her life on hold. Never wanting to take part in the Moon Ceremony or choosing a mate, she tends to distance herself from her people. When an accident lets loose a side of her that had been hidden for her protection she is forced to come to terms with whom and what she really is.

Griffin Snow serves as a protector for the Goddess in the fight against Dexius, the Dark God. When an old enemy returns to threaten one of his charges, he jumps into action to protect Raven—only to discover that she is not just his charge, but his fated mate. Hiding out in the safety of Griffin’s cabin only adds to the need growing inside of them.

Can Raven and Griffin save their people from the big, bad ugly or will they lose their chance at happiness?

Excerpt:

Raven watched as the sun set over the valley. The view from her front porch was utterly breathtaking in the spring. The stars lit up the sky like a blanket of glittering diamonds, the absence of the moon leaving them the only guides in the sky. It wouldn’t be long until she made her appearance known to Raven’s kind. The drawl of her moon song would be too strong to ignore. But no matter how loud the beat played in Raven’s head she wouldn’t be able to answer the call. Fate had given her a bum ride; she could hear and feel the drawl of the moon but her body wouldn’t respond. It was a cruel reality that she dealt with every month.

“Raven, get in here now! Your father needs your help getting ready for the ceremony.”

Her mother had a temper shorter than a dynamite fuse and it was burning fast from the stress of the Moon Ceremony. Once the moon showed herself in the eastern sky, in less than a week, their home would be flooded with other shifters preparing for the spring mating ritual.

“I’m coming, Mom.” She whispered a few choice expletives, but with a shifter’s hearing her mother had no trouble understanding her ramblings.

“Young lady, I know you are twenty-five, but you’re still my daughter and I will pull you over my knee.” Her mother’s goodhearted laugh let her know it wasn’t urgent. Nevertheless, the stress level was getting pretty damn high. “Now get out in the yard and help your father.”

Her father, TalfrynCorvus, had been planning the Moon Ceremony since he was chosen by the council last spring. He was to host the opening ceremonies of the mating ritual on their family lands. Ever since he had been chosen, he had become obsessed with every small detail, and had driven Raven to the brink of insanity.

She walked through the front doors and back into the chill night air. Her father was bent over placing stones around the center alter, preparing a small pit to contain the fire.

“Hey Dad, did you need me?”

“Yes, please take a seat.” He indicated one of the makeshift benches made from cut logs that now lined the yard. The smell of sawdust mixed with the sweet smell of spring. “Daughter, I think you understand how important this ceremony is to your mother and me. I need to know for sure that you understand your part. You don’t have to shift to be included in the ritual but you should try to commune with the Goddess. She will choose your mate.”

Upon their eighteenth birthday, shifters gathered at the change of each season under the first full moon to not only celebrate and dance but to find and seal the mating bond. Most shifters went into the ceremony with their intended mate, ready to make the commitment and start families. Others went with the intent of finding their mate among the flock. But not Raven.

“Dad, I understand. I’m just not ready.”

“You are twenty-five and have refused each chance at a mate. Why do you buck tradition? You could have any man in the flock you desire and yet you still choose none.”

Her father was right on one count. She did turn her nose up at the traditions of her people, and she couldn’t imagine tying herself to one person for the rest of her life. She wanted to be free, to be among the rest of humanity, and off of this damn mountain.

He was wrong to assume she had her choice of mates. Most of the men she knew were family, and the ones who could be potential mates kept a wide berth when she was around. She was born different from most shifters, with the moon closer to her heart than her non-existent beast, and it kept her from the one thing she really wanted.

“Daddy, you know how I feel about finding a mate. When the Goddess thinks I’m ready, she will bring him to me. Not a moment before.”

Author Bio:

Growing up in her hometown of Charleston WV, J.N spends her days wrangling her two beautiful daughters and super dog Bo and is married to her high school sweetheart, who she considers the rock that keeps her grounded to reality when she would rather be lost in the paranormal. If a book contained something supernatural there is a good chance that she has read it. Whether its vamps, shifters, elves or fairies it is most likely setting on her shelf waiting to be re-read.

Looking for a new genre she found the world of romance and fell in love. The drama and conflict are different but still enough to get the adrenaline pumping and the heart thumping to keep her coming back for more. It wasn’t long until the need to write came knocking at the door and by the grace of her husband’s patience and her children’s bed times she got that chance. Her twisted mind found a new outlet on paper and now her story has found a way onto your shelf or reader and she hopes that you enjoy reading it as much as she enjoyed writing.

www.jnjohnsonauthor.com Facebook

10/28: Spotlight – Lunar Haven

11/1: Tens list or Interview – Laurie’s Paranormal Thoughts and Reviews

11/6: Spotlight – Indie Authors Books and More

11/7: Guest blog – Books to Get Lost In

11/8: Interview – You Gotta Read

11/11: Guest Blog – Romantic Reads and Such

11/12: Interview – Romance with Flavor

11/12: 2nd stop – Spotlight – My Erotic Notions

11/14: Interview – Lusty Penguin Reviews

11/15: Interview – Books-n-Kisses

11/15: 2nd stop – Review – Trips Down Imagination Road

November 15, 2013November 14, 2013

Deathbed & Breakfast Blog Tour and Review

I am delighted to have Bart Gilbertson here today to talk about his new mystery, Deathbed & Breakfast. This one takes place in Oregon and is a very fun read.

SSR – Sustained Silent Reading

When I was in the 4th Grade, our teacher, Mrs. Parks, would read to the entire class from a book for about 30 minutes or so every day after our lunch break. Some of us would put our heads down on the desk, others would just lean back in their chairs, and still others would get out a piece of paper and draw doodles while she would read to us. We learned how to eat a fried worm, solve mysteries (thanks to Encyclopedia Brown), and how to herd cattle and horses according to a ranch boy called “Little Britches.” It was in this way that I really found a love for books. I especially loved it when she read “Where The Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls. That was the one book that lit a fire inside of me and made me want to become a writer myself someday.

Towards the end of that school year, my parents relocated us to a neighboring town about 11 miles away and I had to finish 4th Grade with a new teacher, Mrs. Beasley. What I really liked about Mrs. Beasley’s class, was that she had rotating book shelves filled with paperback books about all sorts of things. It was in this class that two new traditions started for me.

The first tradition took place every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It was something we did for about 45 minutes every afternoon that Mrs. Beasley called “SSR.” It stood for “Sustained Silent Reading.” All of us kids would go over and pick out a book off the rotating racks, or get out something we’d brought from home. Then, we’d just read to ourselves…silently. I know most of the kids really looked forward to these days. I was one of them. I loved SSR time. So much so, that I still have SSR time. It isn’t quite as often as it used to be with the added responsibilities of adulthood, but it is still important.

The second tradition was that, everywhere I went, I carried a book with me. I don’t mean required reading or school text books. Some sort of fiction. In between the lectures and school work, I could always be found reading a book. This is something that has also followed me down through the years. I knew early on in life, that I wanted my own books out there for others to carry with them and read when they could.

I believe we all need some SSR time. Television, movies, music, even video games…they all have a place in our lives. So does reading – sustained silent reading. With no music playing, no television going off in the background; just you, your book, and your imagination.

It thrilled me to watch my daughter as she grew up and see how much she loved to read books as well. Her bookshelves are full of books, and she’s read them all. She was happier receiving a book as a gift than a movie or a video game. There is nothing quite like the twinkle in a young person’s eyes as they delve into a captivating story on the high seas, or a mystery.

My book, “Deathbed & Breakfast,” tries to capture that same magical feeling of a good mystery. A fun and humorous read, it will keep you guessing as you move forward to the killer’s identity at the end. Put aside some time for it as you enjoy a little SSR!

About the Author:

Bart J. Gilbertson is the author of the Pookotz Sisters Mystery Series. Although he was born in Wisconsin, he spent most of his youth and later years in the rocky mountain state of Idaho. He has been all over the northwest and it is his love for the lush green state of Oregon that inspired the setting for Pleasant Lake and its inhabitants. He attended ITT Technical Institute in Boise, ID and received an Associate in Applied Science Degree for Computer Networking Systems and graduated with honors. Bart has worn many hats over his lifetime career, but the one he is most proud of is that of being a writer. He currently resides in O’Neill, NE. He has two children.

Website/ Facebook/ Twitter

Richard Forester, a retired CEO for a major software company, and his granddaughter Penny show up at the Pookotz Bed & Breakfast one evening and find themselves in some rather unpleasant company. All the guests somehow seem to be connected to Richard’s past and when he is found dead the next morning, everyone is suspect. However, there are a few wrinkles that the inn’s owners Edna and Mildred Pookotz need to iron out as the investigation unfolds. Not only was Richard deathly ill, but he was also accused of embezzling $750,000 which is still unaccounted for. The local Sheriff suspects that this victim’s death is not a natural one, so he–and the sisters–set forth to discover who the murderer is.

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Deathbed & Breakfast

Review (4.0 Stars): I am always looking for new authors and I really enjoyed Mr. Gilbertson’s new book, Deathbed & Breakfast. I loved the fact that the Pookotz Bed & Breakfast was set in Oregon which added to the charm of this delightful mystery. The mystery was well-written and fast-paced which caused me to spend half the night reading it just to try to figure out who the killer was. I loved the Pookotz sisters because they were such interesting characters and I loved their old-fashioned ways.

The supporting characters in this mystery are what really make this book fun. Felix, the elderly chef who can’t hear and can barely see had some hilarious scenes in this book as well as the other quirky guests that were staying at the bed & breakfast. This was an enjoyable mystery with a lovely cast of characters that I can’t wait to visit again.

November 14, 2013October 28, 2013

Interview with Mary Ann Kempher

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Mary Ann Kempher to the blog today.

Mary, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m married with two children; a boy who is 15 and a girl who just turned 13; she’s the handful. I lived many years in Reno NV, where my first book; Mocha, Moonlight, and Murder is set. I spent 20 years in the Air Force

Have you always wanted to be an author?

No. I’ve always liked to write, but didn’t decide to write a book until about 5 years ago.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Instead of feeding her late-night appetite, a midnight food run nearly gets 28-year-old Katherine O’Brian killed. She’s the only person to see the man who brutally murdered a local woman, and the killer is hell-bent on making sure she doesn’t talk.

Scott Mitchell left a broken engagement behind when he moved to Reno, and the last thing he needs is more melodrama. But when he and Katherine are paired for a college project, that’s what he gets. It can be very distracting when someone is out to kill your lab partner. Together, they try to figure out what the police haven’t been able to—the identity of the murderer.

Passion flares, but with Katherine’s life in danger, romance seems like more than a bad idea.

Scott and Katherine will face jealousy, misunderstandings, lust, and rivals, not to mention attempted murder—and all before their first real date.

How did you come up with the idea for this story?

The story evolved, I’m what people call a “pantser”, so my story started out one way and ended up being totally different from the original concept

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I’ve just finished my second book, it’s a mystery set on a cruise ship where two people (so far) have been murdered. The head of security must find the killer before the ship returns to port. Still working on the title.Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

Both my favorite authors are dead, Jane Austen and Agatha Christie. At the moment, I’m reading a lot of Janet Evanovich. I wouldn’t mind meeting her.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Research the genre you want to write in. Research how to write a book, don’t just assume you can sit down and start writing. You can, but you’ll have less revisions if you do research first.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
I want to visit London some day.What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Anything and everything written by the fantastic author, Marni Mann.

*****

Mocha, Moonlight, and Murder

MaryAnn Kempher

Amazon Barnes and Noble

Scott Mitchell left a broken engagement behind when he moved to Reno, and the

last thing he needs is more melodrama. But when he and Katherine are paired for a college project, that’s what he gets. It can be very distracting when someone is out to kill your lab partner. Together, they try to figure out what the police haven’t been able to—the identity of the murderer. Passion flares, but with Katherine’s life in danger, romance seems like more than a bad idea.

Scott and Katherine will face jealousy, misunderstandings, lust, and rivals, not to mention attempted murder—and all before their first real date.

Author Bio:

MaryAnn Kempher’s writing is infused with romance and mystery. Her love of romance stories goes back to her teen years spent living in Reno NV where Mocha, Moonlight, and Murder is set. MaryAnn’s travels have taken her to beautiful cities in Italy, Southeast Asia and the sultry desert country of Qatar. She met her husband on one of her romantic misadventures. She has two children andcurrently lives in Florida where she and her family share their home with two dogs and a cat. Her writing influences include favorite authors Jane Austen and Agatha Christie. She’s also a huge fan of the Hercule Poirot mysteries. Her guilty pleasures include any and all sweets, including a good cup of Mocha.

For more about MaryAnn Kempher, visit http://mkempher.com

Easily connect w/MaryAnn Kempher thru her author FB page: Facebook

10/27: Spotlight – Mark of the Stars

11/4: Interview – Laurie’s Thoughts and Reviews

11/8: Spotlight – Theresa Stillwagon

11/11: Spotlight – Becky on Books

11/12: Spotlight – Indie Authors Books and More

11/12: Spotlight – Lusty Penguin Reviews

11/13: Spotlight – Romantic Words and Such

11/14: Interview – Books-n-Kisses

11/15: Spotlight – Bootheel Cotton Patch

11/18: Spotlight – Deal Sharing Aunt

11/19: Spotlight – You Gotta Read Reviews

11/20: Spotlight – My Erotic Notions

11/21: Interview – Books to Get Lost In

11/22: Spotlight – In Shadows

11/25: Spotlight – Storm Goddess Book Reviews

11/30: Spotlight – Harlie’s Books

November 13, 2013November 6, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Anne Cleeland

Can you please share with us a little about yourself?

I’m a lawyer by trade, and for years I earned my living writing dry legal briefs and thinking that I really should try to write fiction. I’ve always been a reader, and I think most readers (after you’ve read your ten-thousandth romance) think they could probably write a decent story. One day I went to my local RWA chapter meeting and I’ve loved every minute since—I strongly urge those of you who are in the same boat to find a group and just get started; it’s so much fun!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not really—although I’ve always invented stories to amuse myself. I think it’s probably easier if you consider writing as a hobby, and so if you happen to sell your story, that’s great. But if I never sold, I’d still be writing these stories because I enjoy them so much.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I love romance, I love mystery and I love adventure stories, and I try to combine all three in each story. For romance, my favorite is Georgette Heyer; for mystery, Agatha Christie; and for adventure, Edgar Rice Burroughs. Their stories always have great characters and interesting, fast-moving plots, and that’s what I try to imitate.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre? Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

I’ve read a million Regencies, and so that’s an era that I enjoy. I also write a contemporary mystery series that has a strong romance plotline. I would love to write fantasy and science fiction, too.

What are some of your writing rituals?

Mainly I write whenever and wherever I get a chance—even in the middle seat of an airplane. I do like to have some diet Dr. Pepper handy, though.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Daughter of the God-King is mostly set in Egypt. The daughter of famous Egyptologists must travel to the Valley of the Kings to find out what happened to her parents, who are missing. They were last seen working at their latest dig—the tomb of an unknown pharaoh’s daughter. Suddenly, various factions from Napoleon’s last war are pursuing the heroine, thinking she knows where her parents hid an unknown treasure. The hero is her parents’ mysterious agent, who is definitely not what he seems—but is he friend or foe? In the end, the secrets contained in the tomb of the god-king’s daughter will change her life forever, and threaten to set the world ablaze in another war.

How did you come up with the idea for this story?

I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer, which means I have no idea. I start writing and the story just seems to develop as I go along. I always like to have big twists in my story, and this one has a doozy.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I’ve already written several more Regency adventure stories similar to this one—the stories are independent, but have cross-over references. I also am writing a contemporary mystery series; Murder in Thrall came out in July and Murder in Retribution will come out next July.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

On the streets of Paris, the heroine is approached by a strange gentleman who will not identify himself but who nervously urges her to return to England, and to avoid Egypt at all costs.

What would you be if you were not an author?

A detective. As long as nothing too scary happens.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I’ll be with everyone else, lining up to see the next installment of The Hunger Games.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It’s a great time to be a reader, so I’d urge everyone to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities on-line, such as Goodreads or great blogs such as this one. And don’t forget your local bookstore—they need your support, too. And if you have the itch to write a book, just start typing; every journey starts with a single step.

Learn more about Anne here: GoodReads

*****

Amazon| B&N

Hattie Blackhouse is the only child of famous Egyptologists, and when they go missing, she travels to their latest excavation in ancient Thebes only to discover that she is attracting interest from the French, the British, and the Egyptians, who believe her the reincarnation of a long-dead princess.

In the second book in the Regency series, the heroine finds herself in the crosshairs of factions who are vying to support or thwart Napoleon’s latest attempt at world domination—and she unknowingly holds the key.

a Rafflecopter giveaway