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Island Detour by Maria Imbalzano Contemporary enemies to lovers romance. Release February 19, 2024 Some detours are worth the trouble. Falsely accused of wrongdoing at a Princeton Prep school, Sophie Kearns accepts a temporary teaching position at an environmental school in the Florida Keys to wait out her suspension. The time away is meant to be an anxiety-free escape, but her clashes with the hot but arrogant marine biology teacher, Max Heaton, are anything but tranquil. Max is determined to start an environmental research institute at the school, but he suspects the gorgeous new Lit teacher, who lacks even the most basic outdoor skills, is there to hinder that dream. Yet, something about her tames the demons from his past, and he can no longer ignore the fire she’s lit inside him. Buy Link https://books2read.com/u/4D20y7 The story behind the story. Twenty years ago, I had learned about a school in the Bahamas that was associated with The Lawrenceville School – a private high school that is about a mile from my house. It was a semester abroad type program for high school students where they would learn about the marine environment and conservation while continuing their normal studies. I was intrigued. So I asked a lot of questions back then about this opportunity for students, and developed a story based on this setting. Although The Island School is in Eleuthera in the Bahamas, I set my story in a similar environment but placed it in the Florida Keys. The fictional island is Sunrise Island, but it is based on Key West. I’ve been going down to Key West every year since I started dating my husband (over 30 years ago). It’s an eclectic island of locals who seemingly dropped out, tourists, and restaurateurs or other merchants who somehow hang in there. The bars are open from 9 a.m. and there is always live music pouring out onto the street from open-air walls. The main thoroughfare, Duval Street, is about a mile long and goes from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. Sidewalk cafes, pubs, restaurants, art galleries, jewelry shops and casual clothing boutiques populate this entertaining street where people-watching is a must. But there’s also fishing, kayaking, bicycling, wave running, and sunset cruises calling out to be enjoyed. However, lazing by the pool, or walking the palm-tree lined streets with gingerbread mansions and tin-roofed conch houses are also musts. Every night at sunset there is a party of sorts at Mallory Square where jugglers, musicians, and acrobats perform during the magic hour. This irreverent island blends history, beauty, cultural diversity, the arts, architecture, and marine activities to make it a perfect setting for “Island Detour.” And there’s nothing more romantic than sunsets, moon lit skies, warm breezes, wafting palm fronds, or a table for two at a sidewalk café. ![]() About the author. Maria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary author who writes about strong, independent women and the men who fall in love with them. She recently retired from the practice of law, but legal issues have a way of showing up in many of her novels. When not writing, she loves to travel both abroad and in the states. Maria lives in central New Jersey with her husband--not far from her two daughters. For more information about her books, please visit her website at http://mariaimbalzano.com where you can also sign up for her newsletter. http://www.mariaimbalzano.com Follow the author. https://www.facebook.com/mariaimbalzanoauthor http://www.twitter.com/mariaimbalzano @mariaimbalzano Instagram mariaimbalzano_author https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7276749.Maria_Imbalzano https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maria-imbalzano https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00FG9RI5K Be thou the rainbow to the storms of life! The evening beam that smiles the clouds away, And tints tomorrow with prophetic ray! ~Lord Byron One day, we were out to dinner with friends. The restaurant is like a giant greenhouse with plants hanging and standing in every available space. We were enjoying one another’s company and looking out the window for the deer and turkeys that often visit when I saw it. The end of the rainbow. It was right there in the field. It didn’t really touch the ground, but that’s where it ended. I’ve always seen this gorgeous phenomenon in the sky. Never touching the ground. But there it was. Nope, no leprechauns, no pot of gold, only the riches of its glory that I treasure in my heart. This was before cell phones, so in my heart and mind are the only places I can hold it. I’ve always pulled off the road or gotten out of wherever I was when it seemed perfect timing for a rainbow sighting. My favorites are when there are doubles. I’ve been able to capture several of these. On one of my friend’s wedding days, it rained but paused in time for a few quick pics. It wasn’t until the photos came in that a perfect double rainbow was behind them. Rainbows are seen whenever there are water drops in the air and sunlight shining from behind at a low altitude. There are a few things to unpack from this. One of my books, called Rainbow Sprinkles, has the tagline After the storm come the rainbows. Storms blow through our lives. Even the worst storm will come to an end, though. That’s our hope, isn’t it? That in the end, we’ll find our rainbow. But only if we look. I love that the sunlight shines through the rain and brings such a colorful beauty. I havea few pictures of rainbows. And some, if you really look, are doubles. And if you still haven’t had enough, here are some interesting facts about them.
After the storm come the rainbows.
About Retired and widowed Gloriana Jones is forging on with the plans she and her late husband dreamed of—bringing joy and happiness, one ice cream cone at a time, to Lake Unami. But bad weather is drowning her dream. A trip to Upstate NY is bittersweet for Nathan James. He is excited to see his first granddaughter but without his wife he’s lonely. When his car breaks down, he heads to the only light he can see, an ice cream shop. With aid from a heavenly source, electricity sparks, but will the two weather the summer storms and find love a second time? Or will their hopes and dreams melt away? A peek inside. “Do you mind if I wait until the tow truck gets here?” He plucked the wet shirt away from his chest with the long fingers of one tanned hand. “It must be electrical, even the radio stopped working.” “No, you’re welcome to hang around as long as you need.” Gloriana riffled through a cardboard box under the counter, pulled out an extra-large t-shirt, and tossed it to him. “Here you go. The restroom is through there.” Mr. Gorgeous beamed a perfect toothy smile. “Thanks. I’ll be right back.” When he disappeared into the hallway and the door clicked shut, Gloriana fanned her face. What the hot fudge was wrong with her? “Coffee. Make coffee.” About the Author Hi, my name is D. V. Stone. I am a multi-genre author of two independently published books. Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar is a fantasy romance. Agent Sam Carter and the Mystery at Branch Lake is a mid-grade paranormal. Recently, Rock House Grill was released by Wild Rose Press. Rainbow Sprinkles, a novella released on July 8th. I also host Welcome to the Campfire and A Peek Through the Window, both weekly blogs. Here’s a little more about me. Born in Brooklyn, D.V. Stone has moved around a bit and even lived for a time on a dairy farm in Minnesota before moving back east. Throughout her wandering, she always considered herself a Jersey Girl. She met and married the love of her life, Pete—a lifelong Jersey Man, and moved this time to Sussex County. They live with Hali, a mixed breed from the local shelter, and their cat Baby. D.V.’s career path varied from working with the disabled and becoming a volunteer EMT, which in turn led to working in hospital emergency rooms and then in a women’s state prison. After a few years, she took a break from medicine and became the owner of Heavenly Brew, a specialty coffee shop in Sparta, NJ, and a small restaurant in Lafayette. Life handed some setbacks. She ended up back in the medical field, but this time in a veterinary emergency hospital. “Thank you for taking the time to read about me. Each time you open the pages to one of my books, I hope you’ll be swept away by the story and find encouragement in your own life, never to give up on hope.” D.V. Stone Please help me welcome Kris Bock to the fire. Kris, I’m so glad you’re here. I’m going to grab the kettle because I hear you enjoy a cup of tea. I’ve a box of Dragon Spiced Red Chai waiting for another chai lover. Whilst I do, will you please introduce yourself to the other guests? Tell them who are you other than your bio? I’ve lived in New Mexico for over twenty years, three times longer than I’ve lived anywhere else. A lot of my novels are set in the Southwest. I really had no idea what I wanted to be growing up. My mom thought I would have to be a librarian, since my main interest was reading. In high school, I got interested in photography, so I went to college for that. I quickly learned I didn’t want to be a professional photographer and switched to writing. I wrote my first novel, The Well of Sacrifice (a novel for ages 9 to 12, published under the name Chris Eboch), shortly after finishing grad school, while I was looking for work as a magazine editor. The novel is set in Mayan times, inspired by a summer I spent traveling through Mexico and Central America. Astonishingly, I sold the book! This gave me the mistaken impression that having a writing career wasn't so hard. I have since written many novels that I haven't sold, but I've managed to make a career of writing by doing a lot of work in educational publishing. Around 2008, I was feeling restless and wanted a change. I had mostly been reading adult romantic suspense novels, so I started writing those under the name Kris Bock. Later I switched to contemporary sweet romance and then added mysteries. You’ve been at this a while then. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? Reading is my main hobby. My tastes change based on a variety of factors. Lately I’ve mainly been reading historical romance, paranormal romance, and historical mystery, plus some sci-fi, even though I don’t currently write in those genres. I think reading outside my writing genre gives me a mental break from my own writing. I also enjoy walking and hiking, and my husband and I occasionally do some archery. We are currently pet parents to one ferret. I’m also a reader of many different genres and living in New Mexico you must have beautiful scenery for those hikes. Who is your network or support system? Since I started in writing for children, I’ve been a longtime member of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Those authors are still my friends and colleagues, even though I’ve largely moved on to writing genre fiction for adults. My husband is also a great supporter, and my brother is an author as well. In fact, we’ve written three books together! Douglas J Eboch wrote the original screenplay for the movie Sweet Home Alabama. Now we write the Teenage Adventures of Felony Melanie series, which follow the crazy antics of Melanie, Jake, and their friends a decade before the events of the movie. Sign up for the Rom-Com newsletter to get Felony Melanie Destroys the Moonshiner’s Cabin. These first two chapters from the novel Felony Melanie in Pageant Pandemonium stand alone as a short story. I love that movie and that your brother is a co-author. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? For the Accidental Detective series, I was inspired by the Phryne Fisher Mysteries by Kerry Greenwood, plus senior sleuths such as Jessica Fletcher in Murder She Wrote. I liked the way Phryne Fisher had a background that showed why she was fearless. And people seem to enjoy sleuths who are older women, who use their life experience to solve mysteries. Plus I was going to turn fifty soon and noted a lack of characters in that in-between age! What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? I live in a small town, with some of my close friends only a few blocks away. We lack the big city activities, but we can walk or hike in nature and hang out at friends’ houses. The local Mineral Museum, part of the state Bureau of geology, is also fabulous! We have a mineral museum near us too. I enjoy going there and even down into the mine. What weird talent do you have? I’m known for being graceful when I do challenging things like rock-climbing and swing dancing, but clumsy the rest of the time. Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants? I’ll take the tickets. If I didn’t have to pay for the flights, I might be able to afford food at my destinations! Plus I don’t have expensive restaurant tastes and rarely go out to eat. What was your first job? I went to high school in Juneau, Alaska and spent two summers working as a glacier guide on helicopter tours. That’s beats my first job cleaning. Let’s chat about writing. Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book? I have written quite a few series. The Accidental Detective humorous mystery series is an ongoing series with six books out so far and two more under contract. The Accidental Billionaire Cowboys sweet romance series – a complete five book series about a Texas ranching family that wins a huge lottery. The books feature four brothers and their widowed mother, each getting their own love story. The Furrever Friends cat cafe sweet romance series – a loosely linked series of sweet romance novels with different main characters in each book. Book 7, Pride and Prejudice at the Cat Café, is coming soon. The Felony Melanie: Sweet Home Alabama romantic comedy novels – three books so far, as mentioned above. I also have three linked and several standalone romantic suspense novels So I like series, but I also like the variety of writing romance and mystery in different series! You are quite prolific. How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have? I have at least ten novels that aren’t strong enough to submit or self-publish. That’s all part of the learning process. Literary success is different to many authors, what does it look like to you? I want to make a living as a writer. I’d rather make a better living than I’m making right now, but I haven’t had an office job in years, so I call that a success! Congratulations! It’s my goal too. Kris, thank you so much for sharing the fire with me today. Before you head either back to your desk or out on a hike, please leave some information about your Accidental Detective Series. In The Accidental Detective humorous mystery series, a witty journalist solves mysteries in Arizona and tackles the challenges of turning fifty. Kate has followed the most dangerous news stories around the world, but can she survive going home? This series starts with Something Shady at Sunshine Haven: Injured in a bombing, war correspondent Kate Tessler returns to her hometown in Arizona to recover. Then an old friend asks her to investigate suspicious deaths at a nursing home – where Kate’s mother is in an Alzheimer’s unit. If Kate can’t uncover the truth, her mother could be next on the killer’s list.
What others are saying. “A great start to a new series... Readers will enjoy this new cozy mystery and eagerly wait for more sleuthing with Kate and the Coffee Shop Irregulars!” ~Reading is my Superpower Purchase from Tule Publishing or get the links to all retailers. Available as an e-book and in print. Find Kris: Website Blog GoodReads Author Page BookBub Amazon US page or Amazon UK page DAUGHTERS OF RIGA by Marian Exall Historical Fiction WWII February 28, 2024 About As World War II sweeps over Europe, nine-year-old Danielle Loesseps escapes from Latvia under the protection of the Dutch consul. Her mother, the consul’s secretary, is left behind at the end of a momentous year which sees a heroic scheme to save refugees from the Nazis, the blossoming of a secret love, and an unhappy woman’s revenge. The consul’s young daughter Berta Vandercam also grows up in the shadow of the war and strives to understand why her father never speaks about their time in Riga. Memories of the Riga consulate and questions about what happened there haunt the survivors as they remake their lives in the postwar world. www.amazon.com/Daughters-Riga-Marian-Exall-ebook/dp/B0CQ8WNHFL www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144484609 Inspiration for the story. "I was inspired to write "Daughters of Riga" after meeting Edith Zwartendijk. Edith was twelve years old in 1940 when her father Jan saved the lives of 2,300 Jewish refugees as the Dutch consul in Kaunas, Lithuania. She remembers him working late into the night writing visas to Curacao and other far away Dutch colonies. He never spoke about his wartime activities, and his heroism went unrecognized during his lifetime. I wrote "Daughters of Riga" to honor Edith and Jan, and all the other true stories of everyday heroism and resilience from World War II—stories that will now, eighty years on, remain untold." From the author, Heat level: PG ![]() About the author. Marian Exall is an award-winning author of mysteries and historical fiction. She grew up in England, and lived in France and Belgium before emigrating to the United States where she raised a family and pursued a career as a lawyer. She now lives in the Pacific Northwest and devotes herself to writing. Her historical novel "Daughters of Riga" will be released by the Wild Rose Press on February 28. "Daughters of Riga" won the CIBA Hemingway award for wartime fiction. Marian has also published three Sarah McKinney mysteries. The second and third books in the series (A Dangerous Descent and A Splintered Step) won CIBA Clue Awards for international mystery. A Splintered Step was also a semi-finalist in Screencraft’s Cinematic Books competition. As well as the Sarah McKinney series, Marian has published a romantic novelette set in Victorian Yorkshire and titled "The Elgin Letters." Marian’s work has been published in anthologies: Memory into Memoir, Whatcom Writes, The Kumquat Challenge and So Much Depends Upon…. Her memoir An Azure Year won the 2017 Solas Award for Best Travel Writing in the travel + food category. www.facebook.com/mysterymarianexall www.marianexall.com/ FORGIVEN NEVER FORGOTTEN BY SUSAN LEIGH FURLONG December 20, 2023 Scottish Historical Romance Rory Campbell, falsely accused of participating in the Clan MacDonald of Glencoe killings, is sentenced to hang as a sacrificial lamb while the real agents of the slaughter escape blame. He risks everything to convince the love of his life, Joneta MacDonald, of the truth. He can never forget how completely she owns his heart. Joneta MacDonald watches helplessly as her family is murdered by the king’s men, but forgiving Rory for his seeming participation is harder than she imagined. Can she endure the clan’s hatred of him? Can she cling to her love for a traitor despite overwhelming odds. BUY LINKS: Books available on my website - Https://SusanLFurlong.com www.amazon.com/Forgiven-Never-Forgotten-Susan-Furlong/dp/1509252959/ UNIVERSAL LINKS - EBook Booklinker - https://mybook.to/pCg1 Books2Read - https://books2read.com/u/mBJOlR From the author Heat Level: PG 13 (with brief violence and brief non-explicit love scenes) The story behind the story. I enjoy searching through old records for true, but hard-to-believe historical events. One I ran across that inspired Forgiven Never Forgotten was the Glencoe Massacre in 1692. A small clan was slaughtered by the king’s men to persuade other clans to cooperate. Needless to say, it didn’t work, but it left the MacDonald clan grieving a loss of over 100 of its members. This set me to thinking about how someone could survive such a senseless tragedy, which led me to create Rory and Joneta’s story. I first explored how my hero and heroine from enemy clans could overcome clan bitterness to find their own love. Then, as a writer who must make things worse, they now had to deal with the greater betrayal, death, and murder of her extended family and his seeming blame for it. I also explored how different people deal with grief and loss. The brain tries to rescue the victim by either Freezing (being afraid to move on) or Flight (escaping feelings by shutting them out) or Fight (fighting back). Eventually, a victim may recover and forgive, but they will never forget. A quote from Mary Anna Radmacher is “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Which, despite events out of their control, is exactly how Rory and Joneta created their own HEA destiny through determination and devotion. ![]() About the author. Susan Leigh Furlong knew she had a special connection with words since she was a child. When she was 9 years old, she wrote and directed her first play for the neighborhood children. Her love for history fuels her resilience against the sneezes and coughs that old books give her, and are now relieved by Internet research, as she delves into unique historical events to inspire her historical fiction romance novels. Susan captures her readers’ imagination with a highly enthralling style, chronological events, and smoothly flowing narratives that keep one’s eyes glued on her novels from the first page to the last. Her first three books center on a family living in the Scottish Highlands in the sixteenth century. A fourth novel takes place during the American Revolution with the same family but across the pond while her fifth book takes the reader back to Scotland. All are published by The Wild Rose Press. She also has two non-fiction books published by Arcadia Press filled with over 200 photographs and tales about her hometown. When she is not researching and creating her stories, she writes, directs, and performs with a music and drama group. She married and moved to her small-town boy’s home. Now, even though she was born a “big city” girl, you couldn’t get her out of here with a crowbar. https://www.susanlfurlong.com/ twitter.com/FurlongLeigh www.facebook.com/SusanLeighFurlong/ It's an indoor fire today! The clouds dumped a foot of snow on us here in Northern New Jersey. A week ago DH and I were in Florida. Now honestly, it wasn't really warm there, but I do have a weather idiocincrasy. If it's sixty degrees or over I'm wearing shorts. Despite the snow, (more expected later this week) I've started some indoor plants. Herbs, green onions, tomatoes, and peppers are in various stages. Come on spring! The ground hog said you'd be here early. Okay, enough of me whining. Today's guest is back with exciting news about a new release. Hey Gayle while I pour us a glass of Pinot Noir, why don't you schooch up to the fire and introduce yourself? Who are you other than your bio? Only child of parents from the Midwest who now cares for those elderly parents and a nature/animal lover who enjoys woodland strolls and walks along the river. I'm the oldest of four and I tease my siblings that I got the beauty and the brains. I'm also and outdoor girl. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? Nature photography, visiting America’s national parks and forests, transporting for pet rescue organizations. Who is your network or support system? This would be any groups/authors/friends/family who contribute to your writing career. I’m involved with three local writing groups and I have two close friends who keep me accountable with my writing and marketing. What books or authors are your inspiration? Elena Johnson, Victorine Lieske, Kris Bock, Eliza Boyd, Penny Zeller, Karen Drew, Danni Roan, and Toni Shilo. I enjoy reading a lot of indie romance authors as they inspire me. I'm familiar with Kris. She's joining me Around the Fire next week and I can't wait. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? I live in an older, historic neighborhood, set up during the 1920s. Most houses feature large front porches, but I prefer to sit in our backyard where we have apple and elm trees for shade and the atmosphere is a bit quieter (we live near a middle school). There is also a church near an open space, and we sometimes take our dogs walking in that area. Overall, it’s a lovely neighborhood with older people, a few families, and several dogs. It sounds wonderful. What is your favorite mug or teacup? A friend of mine gave me a mug years ago that says “Rescue Dog Mom,” and I use it frequently. I was also gifted one for Christmas that says, “But God …” These are my two favorite coffee and tea mugs and the ones I use most often. All of my pets have been rescues. Hali is our most recent. Years ago, there was a commercial that talked about a “Kodak Moment.” It’s a moment in time you catch in a picture. One you never want to forget. What is yours? My blind dog and I visiting Yellowstone National Park. Her name was Sage, and she was the catalyst for me becoming an author. She was a special dog who inspired many, both in person and in the stories I wrote about her. Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants? Unlimited international first-class tickets. There are several places in the world I’d enjoy visiting, including Switzerland, Austria, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Let's chat about your writing. Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book? I write in a series/genre I call Pet Rescue Romance, in which I weave pet rescue and adoption into the story. I’ve just completed my first series, called Yellowstone Country, in which the setting for all seven books is the area around Yellowstone National Park (Montana and Wyoming). I’ll be starting another series in 2025. This year, I’m writing standalone books, still set in western states, but not connected by characters. I’m planning an enemies-to-lovers/billionaire book plus a holiday-themed book in 2024. This is exciting news. Best wishes for your upcomings. Gayle, if you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be? Become an author sooner in life (I didn’t start until my 40s). There are many stories to tell! Do you have any marketing tips for other authors? In-person events (not necessarily bookstores, but events like Romance Authors & Readers and events benefiting pet rescue organizations) and Book Funnel promos and newsletter swaps, for sweet romance books. Just this past weekend I did a signing at a winery. I love talking with readers and other authors. What is the toughest part of your artistic process? Time management – time goes by too fast now that I’m in my mid-60s! Cheers to that! Gayle, thanks so much for popping by the fire. Before you wade through the snow will you leave us with more information about your new book and where we can find out more? Paws-itively Love by Gayle M. Irwin February 11, 2024 Romance, New Adult Contemporary Will a chance at new love open their hearts or will a family member’s revengeful plot tear them apart? Brittany Christiansen knows heartbreak and isn’t ready to take another chance on love. Her focus is her career as a marine biologist. However, when she encounters Gary Anderson, a man she met years ago, the bricks around her heart begin to fall. Can she trust and love again? Gary first met Brittany years ago while volunteering at a Wyoming animal sanctuary. He never forgot her although her heart belonged to someone else. When he returns to his friends’ Montana ranch, he learns Brittany is no longer romantically attached. Should he take the chance this time? Just as they allow the armor to slip and expose their vulnerability, Gary’s unscrupulous uncle returns to Montana, seeking revenge on those who put him in jail years before. That includes Brittany’s aunt and uncle. Will the man’s ruthless tactics tear Brittany and Gary apart or will love, and the law, prevail? Read Paws-itively Love, a sweet, contemporary pet rescue romance woven with drama and intrigue and set near Yellowstone National Park. Grab your copy today https://books2read.com/u/31BDMW ![]() More about the author. Gayle M. Irwin is an award-winning Wyoming author and freelance writer who has been recognized by Wyoming Writers, Inc. and the Wyoming Press Association She is a contributing writer to eight Chicken Soup for the Soul books and freelances articles to regional magazines and newspapers, including WREN (Wyoming Rural Electric News), the Casper Star Tribune, and the Douglas Budget. Gayle authors the Pet Rescue Romance – Yellowstone Country series, a collection of sweet, contemporary romance books set near Yellowstone National Park, plus stand-alone stories in the same genre. All weave pet rescue and adoption into the love story. An avid supporter of pet rescue and adoption, Gayle volunteers for various regional organizations and donates a portion of her sales to such groups. Follow Gayle https://gaylemirwin.com/ https://www.facebook.com/gayle.irwin.12 https://www.facebook.com/GayleMIrwin (author page https://www.instagram.com/wycabinlady/ www.pinterest.com/gaylemirwin https://www.amazon.com/author/gayleirwin Another weekend is past and a new one begins in the Stone Household. We took a short business/pleasure trip to Florida. Don't be to jealous though, it was pretty chilly for Florida. But, after not seeing the sun in New Jersey for nearly six weeks except for intermitten peeks through the clouds, I basked. Funny story, the day we left friends staying in the same campground came to say good bye. The temp was supposed to go up to 60 degrees but it was still only 47 when they popped over. I'm running around packing and cleaning so wearing shorts and a t-shirt. When they knocked I opened the cabin door and both of them were standing there in bubble like parkas with hats and scarves. We all burst out laughing. We had to hurry home for a planned booksigning event on Saturday and Sunday at Brook Hollow Winery in Columbia NJ. It was only a small group of us. The BIG event is coming this May. I'll post information as I recieve it. So, stay tuned. Now, onto this weeks new release spotlight. A Right Fine Life by Gency Brown Released January 3, 2024 Per Author rated G Contemporary romance with country music Can the road to a dream take you home again? California-born Randy Walters dreams of Country Music stardom. After years of struggling in the harsh world of the music business in Nashville, TN, and a love interest gone bad, success finally comes. Through it all, he battles guilt over deserting his widowed mother and small son. All the accolades and awards can’t fill his need for the closeness of family and comforts of home. How can he have it all? Grab a copy today. www.amazon.com/Right-Fine-Life-Gency-Brown-ebook/dp/B0CKXS2HGX https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-right-fine-life-gency-brown/1144243383 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197877422-a-right-fine-life From the author
I come from a long line of Oklahoma storytellers. There's nothing like sitting around listening to a grandfather or an aunt share memories and dreams. The campfire being a great place to experience that, with a soda or cup of cocoa in hand. Writing documents and training manuals for work was never going to be enough for me. When I retired to New Mexico, my journey to being a published author began. A title saved for about five years on the notepad in my phone waited for the story to bloom. I like to write early in the day with some light music playing. I've always had a love for music so to pair the two seems to work for me. The words flowed onto the page effortlessly. Of course, they required the edits of a debut author, but I felt good about the first draft. I am deep into my second novel which will be different in style and story about a female writer searching for answers in her life. It involves a diverse group of characters that she meets on a writing sabbatical to the mountains in southeast Oklahoma. Yes, there are mountains in Oklahoma. Ha ha. More about Gency An Oklahoma native, I take a down to earth look at life and can exist comfortably on the page with the fictional characters I create. A career in retail management across America gave me a life enriched by a variety of personalities and cultures. Since retirement in the Albuquerque, NM, area those characters and stories have jumped from memory to the written page. I am a member of Southwest Writers and Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. My performances and leadership roles with music organizations such as the International Western Music Association, Oklahoma City Traditional Music Association, and Southern California Bluegrass Association, afford me an in-depth look into the world and story of a young man striving for success in music. Follow the Author. www.gencybrown.com [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086986480309 https://www.instagram.com/gencybrownauthor/ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gency-Brown/author/B0BJW52ZFC Happy Around the Campfire Day. I don't know if there is a day for this but I've taken the bull by the horns and hereby declare that day today. As I'm writing this DH and I are on a quick turnaround trip from Florida. And yes, there were several campfires since we stayed at the Perry KOA and visited with old friends. Today's fire is with author Margot Johnson. She is sharing with us the things that make her happy. Yep, one of those things is a campfire. Welcome Margo. I'm going to heat up some hot chocolate while you share your recent thoughts about life. I’ve been thinking a lot lately how good it feels to laugh, to focus on the lighter side of life, and to savor the good things around us—like sitting in front of a cozy campfire. We can all use more good news and more feel-good moments, so let’s share them. I totally agree. I love the laugh that makes your sides hurt and exhausts you. So, what makes you feel happy? In no particular order, here are some things that make me smile…
I'm humming My Favorite things. You know the one. Raindrops on roses And whiskers on kittens Well, Margo sent along pictures of a few of her favorite things. Let us know in the comments what makes you laugh, smile, or just makes your day better. ![]() Let it Snowball by Margot Johnson Will a mature couple find Christmas love? Divorced, empty nester Merilee is on a roll. Filled with scrumptious cookies and old-fashioned fun, her Christmas bus tours aim to add festive spirit to her hometown and new meaning to her lackluster life. Too bad her reserved driver slams the brakes on fun. Widowed farmer Ross needs a little joy to combat his December blues. Behind the wheel, he wears a Santa suit but can't muster a convincing ho-ho-ho. Too many memories block his road to happiness…until irrepressible Merilee sparks a snowstorm of unexpected feelings. In two weeks of holiday tours, Ross might drive Merilee crazy…or will romance snowball inside their lonely hearts? Grab a copy today www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07VHKFLQ1/allbooks More about the author
Margot Johnson writes feel-good stories about dreams, family and romance.She is the author of five romances--the novels LOVE TAKES FLIGHT and LOVE LEADS THE WAY and three novellas in the Merilee Tours series--LET IT SNOWBALL, LET IT MELT, and LET IT SIMMER. Her characters can't possibly find their happy endings...or can they? Before turning her focus to the fun writing life, Margot held leadership roles in human resources and communications. Her motto is "Dream big and work hard." When not writing, she loves to connect with family and friends, volunteer with SK Writers Guild, and walk at least 10,000 steps a day (except when it's minus 40!) She lives with her husband in the Canadian prairies. Stone of Love Stones of Iona, Book 1 by Margaret Izard Steamy Paranormal Romance March 4, 2024 Against all odds, is true love strong enough to save a human soul? About After leaving her abusive ex, American scholar Brielle DeVolt embarks on a career-changing opportunity, the renovation of Laird Colin MacDougall’s Chapel ruin. The attractive, broad-shouldered Laird leaves her weak-kneed, but can she trust herself to love again? Dusted in construction dirt, the curvy beauty in his study captivates Colin. As Brielle steps to the window, her brunette tresses halo in the sunlight, and he sees her as his dream soul mate. When he learns his hereditary duty is safeguarding magic Fae stones, all he wants is to protect Brielle from the evil forces of the Fae. Traveling to the past to assume his forefather’s identity and find a missing magic stone is challenging enough. When Brielle appears, an undeniable attraction to his ancestor ignites, causing her confused passion. Faced with fighting an evil Fae to save the realms, Colin must choose between saving the stone or saving his love. Grab your copy today. linktr.ee/mizardauthor Make sure you keep reading for an exciting giveaway announcement. What others are saying… It’s a mesmerizing dance of passion and mystery, making it a must-read for anyone who craves a love story with a touch of enchantment. Literary Titan, 5 Stars, December 2024 Gold Award Winner The immersive narration is sweeping and filled with emotion. Outlander readers will clamor for more of Margaret’s books. N.N.Light 5++ Stars The Inspiration for the Magic Stones In early research, I read about the Stone of Destiny, or the coronation stone, traveling through Scotland and stopping at Dunstaffnage Castle, Oban, Scotland. Dunstaffnage Chapel in the Woods and the castle’s long, turbulent history laid the foundation for my series, Stones of Iona. When I read about the Stone of Destiny and its rumored birthplace, Iona Isle, I asked myself, what if the stone was magic? What if many stones were magic, and what would that mean? As I delved into research on Scotland, I found that many of the people’s beliefs link to its folklore. These rich stories of worlds beyond ours became essential in capturing this country, its people, and its culture and bringing them to life. After drafting the first three books in the seven-book series, a trip to Scotland in June 2023 provided an inspiring view of Scotland and her people. I feel even more connected to the characters and their stories after visiting locations featured in the series… Dunstaffnage Castle, Chapel in the Woods, Iona Isle, Iona Abbey, and Dunollie Castle. GIVEAWAY ANNOUNCEMENT! Make sure and stop by my Goodreads page and enter my drawing for 3 signed copies of the book with Stone of Love bookmark, recipe card featuring a dish from the novel and an author pen. One of the winners will win my Stone of Love Book Swag Box, containing a signed book, bookmark and recipe card with author pen, Wild Rose Press 2024 Calendar, small book bag with Stone of Love logo, large book bag with Stone of Love cover, insulated wine glass with Stone of Love logo, Dublin shot glass with Stone of Love logo acid etched, stuffed animal from lore in the book. Stone of Love (Stones of Iona) by Margaret Izard | Goodreads From the author regarding the heat level. R-Restricted. This is the steamier stuff. Just let me know if it’s for the over-18 crowds. NOTE: What reviewers say about my sexy scenes… The content is for mature audiences, but it doesn’t get in the way of the story. It is a part of the characters’ development within the story. Author Biography
Margaret Izard is an award-winning author of historical fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She spent her early years through college to adulthood dedicated to dance, theater, and performing. Over the years, she developed a love for great storytelling in different mediums. She does not waste a good story, be it movement, the spoken, or the written word. She discovered historical romance novels in middle school, which combined her passion for romance, drama, and fantasy. She writes exciting plot lines, steamy love scenes and always falls for a strong male with a soft heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and adult triplets and loves to hear from readers. Book trailer Stone of Love Book Trailer - YouTube Margaret’s Links Website: www.margaretizardauthor.com X: Mizardauthor (@mizardauthor) / X (twitter.com) Facebook MizardauthorFacebook Instagram Margaret Izard Author (@mizardauthor) • Instagram photos and videos Amazon Author https://www.amazon.com/author/mizardauthor Goodreads Stone of Love (Stones of Iona) by Margaret Izard | Goodreads Bookbub Stone of Love (Stones of Iona Book 1) by Margaret Izard - BookBub You can email me at: [email protected] |
Your Host D.V. StoneAward winning multi-genre author and blogger. Fantasy, romance, mid-grade. Nothing better than a campfire, book, and glass of wine. Okay maybe there is.📚 Follow Me!
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January 2025
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