Good morning! I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Christmas and it's not over yet! New Year is on it's way. 2021 brought a lot of changes to my life, both good and not so. I  brought in the year with Covid, retired, lost my mom, traveled. Life is up and down, right? Well, I hope yours is on an up. Today we're going to meet someone new to the fire. I love meeting and getting to know people. When I did work and a newbie started they would sit them by me. I'd preform the "interview". Who are you? Where do you live?  What did you do before? Etcetera. Yup, Nosey Nellie. In my defense, it was done in a friendly way. And, if you don't ask, how are you going to find out. I ask. Even in tough situation when there's an elephant in the room. Lucky for all of us there's no elephant today, only a wonderful woman and author who I'm delighted to share with you. So grab a cuppa something, and join the conversation Around The Fire.

Hi, Janina! Welcome to my fire. While I pour, why don't you tell us who you are other than your bio?
I’m so many things besides just a pretty bio. I embrace and help other women embrace their feminine power, both as a domestic violence and sexual assault advocate, and as a 3rd Degree Pagan/Wiccan High Priestess. Both positions are a place of healing, where I guide other women to look beyond who they think they are and help them become who they are meant to be.

That's so interesting. So many women need to be not only survivors but overcomers. To have someone in their corner to aid them is an important thing. Tell us, what interests besides writing do you enjoy? For instance, what do you read or hobbies you have? 
I love being outdoors, so my husband and I do a lot of camping in our little Teardrop camper we’ve named Forevermore. Even during the pandemic, when things were closed, we spent the summer camping in our backyard. I love hopping on the back of my husband’s motorcycle and going on long rides throughout the Upstate New York countryside. When I’m indoors and not writing or napping, I like to read books about Celtic deities, or any of my Central New York romance writers.

We love camping Upstate. Forevermore is a great name for a place that brings so much joy and memories. Our camper is 2HOOTS. Who are your go-to people. Those who you count on for support in your writing career.
The Central New York Romance Writers group and my Herkimer Diamonds Critique partners, and my husband David (who will let me pull him out of anything he’s involved in to run a scene by him) are my main sources of help.

Isn't it wonderful to have such a supportive spouse. Mine is as well. Critique groups rock (ha, pun used here. I used to work with someone who often visited the Herkimer Diamond mines).
 
Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
I’ve always loved Jude Deveraux. She was the reason why I started writing.

Do you have any fun or outrageous talent? 
I love the Tarot, ghost hunting, and drumming around the fire. 

What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
Herkimer is a small Mohawk Valley village, inside the Town of Herkimer, inside the County of Herkimer in upstate New York, nestled along the Erie Canal and Mohawk River. We are known for the Herkimer Diamond, which has amazing healing energy. In addition to being known for Diamonds, Herkimer as the BEST CHICKEN WING PIZZA which you can get at VINNY’S Pizza in the heart of Herkimer. I even mention them in my latest book, LOVE IN THE FOREST.

Hmm, I think my next trip may include Vinny's. Wings are one of my favorites. If they made a movie about your life, what would the title be, and who would play you?
I think if they made a movie about my life the title might be called something like, RESILIENCE: It’s not a four letter word.  I’ve beaten three different non-related types of cancer, survived a divorce as a single mother of two pre-teens, and I work with Domestic and Sexual Violence survivors. I’d like to be played by Sandra Bullock.

Inspiring, you are an overcomer. Do you have a particular object like a piece of jewelry or a keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you?
My mom’s clock, which hangs in my living room, is one of my favorite keepsakes. She passed in 2012 and I inherited her clock. I once wrote a poem about how she always feels near with the ticking of the clock. My daughter hates it because I once associated it with my mother’s heartbeat.

What is your favorite mug or teacup.
I have dozens and dozens of mugs, one to suit every mood and occasion. My absolute favorite to drink from when writing is my CNYRW mug with that logo on one side and the phrase, “My hero can kick your hero’s butt,” on the other. My second favorite is a Peanuts Gang mug my son gave me.

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?
In 2001, I had the opportunity to travel to Sydney, Australia, where I climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Standing at the top of the bottom of the world I “held” the setting sun and rising moon in each of my outstretched hands. That was the most empowering moment of my life and it changed my life forever.

Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
I’m a Sagittarian, and we love to travel. We also love to eat, but flying doesn’t have as many calories as say, Vinny’s Chicken Wing Pizza.

LOL! You're correct. Janina, tell us, what kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
I start out each book writing journey with a Tarot reading to determine who my characters are, what they are like, their inner and outer conflicts, what the plot will look like, and it grows from there.

I like that you consider each book a journey. How do you select the names of your travelers?
The characters tell ME their names, first names at least. The last names I usually try to tie in with their personality, or pay tribute to my ancestors;

What was your hardest scene to write?
My hardest scene to write was the death of Brooke Meadows, in Love in the Forest. Spoiler alert; it’s a near death experience, not exactly a full on death. And she comes back.
Thank you so much for joining me Around The Fire today, Janina. Maybe our camping paths will cross one day and we'll share a plate of wings. One last favor. Can you leave a bit about your book and where we can find out more about it and you?

LOVE IN THE FOREST 
by 
Janina Grey
Steamy Contemporary Romance with a Paranormal Twist.

Step into the mystical and magical forests of Upstate New York, where Earth and Sky camp photographer Brooke Meadows has taken refuge from the demons of her past as she uses her ability to communicate with the dead to heal loved ones left behind.
A peek inside.
Unable to cope with the loss of his wife and daughters three years prior, Josh Quinn, CEO of the number one dating site Quirkyflirt.com, is ordered by his board president to take a break from his Big Apple Headquarters. He finds himself at Earth and Sky Retreats, where confronting his grief has led him to experience a life-altering transformation and re-evaluation of reality.
Will Josh leave behind his fast-paced, high society life in the concrete mountains of New York City, for the magical, bewitching world Brooke reveals to him in the foothills of the Adirondacks? 
Will Brooke acknowledge and accept her own journey of transformation and healing as she and Josh explore the winding paths and summits that lead them to find love in the forest?
https://amazon.com/dp/B09233R53Q?tag=intama-20
www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-in-the-forest-janina-grey/1139804111?
amazon.com/Love-Forest-Janina-Grey/dp/1647162394/

Want a bit more? Here's a Love In The Forest Excerpt:
“Thank you.” Josh put down his drum and pocketed the sunglasses he had placed on the seat beside him. He leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees, sharing her personal space as he stared into her eyes.
“For?” Her breath caught as she noted, being this close, that his baby blues might actually be baby teals, something she’d never noticed before now.
She scooted her metal folding chair backwards, then beelined to the storage shelves. Pausing for a second, she shook her head to clear the crazy thought he’d been about to kiss her. Her drum made a solid thud as she set it on the shelf. After finding the nearest window and opening it, she scanned the wall for the overhead light switch by the door and headed in that direction. The room had darkened considerably as another storm blew in from the southeast.
“Teaching me how to drum. Reminding me what it’s like to feel again. I haven’t felt anything in a long time.” He rose from the folding chair and carried his drum to the shelf Brooke had placed her drum on. After setting the djembe next to Brooke’s, he joined her by the door.
She watched his every move; the graceful way he unfolded himself from the chair; the casual yet commanding way he sauntered across the rec room; to the way he studied her face, his eyes settling on her lips as he halted by her side.
Her heart pounded wildly and her breathing lost its normal flow as he reached for the wall switch and shut the lights so they stood in the shadows once more. “Thank you. For teaching me how to drum,” he said, his voice barely audible.
“You’re welcome,” she said in a breathless whisper. She cleared her throat and continued. “It’s getting dark. Storm’s blowin’ in.” Brooke’s voice cracked and she swallowed thickly. “We should go.”
“We should, shouldn’t we?” His words came softly, cloaked in a husky timber.
“Yes.” She answered too quickly as he took another step closer.”
 
Review by InD’Tale Magazine December 2021 Issue (shortened by D. V.)

“Love in the Forest” portrays a new way of interacting with spirits which is quite feasible. The Adirondacks for the backdrop is a wonderful choice, with its ever changing seasons. It is fall in the story, and it is easy to imagine the trees in their colored glory and walking through the fallen leaves. Josh and Brooke are two very strong characters who are fighting demons from their pasts. The telling of Josh’s past is too repetitive. There are many characters in this tale, both campers and counselors; some of each are one dimensional. It is interesting to see how the love story unfolds in spite of Brooke and Josh’s quirks. This is a very unique story that is a true joy to read!
(Reviewer: Belinda Wilson)
 
Soul Mate Publishing
soulmatepublishing.com/love-in-the-forest/
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
Website: www.janinagrey.com quirkyflirt.com
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: facebook.com/janinagrey
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/18967836.Janina_Grey
Instagram: @janinagreyauthor
Twitter: @janina_grey
Bookbub.com: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/janina-grey

A bit more about the author
Janina Grey has been writing since she could hold a crayon, and there has been no stopping her since. Journaling, short stories, poetry, newsletters, news, feature, columns, Op/Eds, and press releases have kept her busy her whole life. But it was the sweet Harlequin romances she read in her downtime that stayed forever in her heart and gave her the inspiration to write her own contemporary romances now published with Soul Mate Publishing. 
By day, Janina guides domestic and sexual assault survivors down their path of healing and empowerment. But in the wee hours of the morning, she hunkers down at her childhood writing desk with Imagine Dragons, Coldplay, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, or Led Zep streaming through her earbuds while she brings to life her characters as they face their real-life sorrows and successes, and best of all, their happily ever afters. 
Growing up on Long Island and living periodically in Tennessee as a youth has given her the opportunity to meet many different types of people and experience many different lifestyles. After moving from Long Island to settle in the Mohawk Valley in Upstate New York with her family, she found the support needed to pursue her writing endeavors with Central New York Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America. 
When Janina is not writing, she may be marching for women’s rights, kayaking, camping, drumming, or dancing around the fire. 
With her two children grown, she and her husband, David, share their 113-year-old Mohawk Valley farm house homestead with a few resident spirits and a very squawky murder of crows.

Thanks for Stopping by.

Good morning and Merry Christmas! I celebrate the season knowing this is not the actual day of Jesus birth. No one really knows what day it is, but its the spirit of the day and time. Love is the theme no matter who you are or what you believe I think you can join me in trusting that Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. So as you either celebrate with others or in the quiet of your heart I wish you many blessings and happiness. In regard to sharing my scheduled guest for today was unable to make it. However, in the spirit of sharing she sent today's lovely guest my way. Please help me welcome today's Around The Fire visitor, Jeanine Lauren.

Jeanine, welcome to my fire. I'm so happy to meet you and nothing helps a person relax but a flickering flame, whether we are inside at the fireplace or outdoors around the campfire. What are your thoughts and preferences?
I am not a camper anymore, as I prefer cabins with beds and sheets, but I still love chatting around a good campfire (even the imaginary fires I used last summer due to our dry conditions here in British Columbia, Canada).  My preferred summer drink? Kambucha of the ginger and lemon variety. In winter? Hot cocoa with a dash of vanilla.
​
I looked up Kambucha. I wasn't familiar with it. I'll have to give it a try. I do enjoy a good cup of tea. But today, hot cocoa it is. While I grab some vanilla, can you tell us about yourself and Who you are other than your bio? What interests besides writing do you enjoy? For instance, what do you read or hobbies you have?
I am a course junkie -both my parents were teachers and so I come by it honestly - this constant need to learn something new.  Every year I feed my learning by taking a degree, a class, joining a group or club, or by reading everything I can find on a subject for a few months. 
This year I am learning French, and Pilates on the reformer machine. To learn French, I use the Duolingo app and practice at least ten minutes a day – I am nearly at a 200-day streak! I have been learning the Pilates since October, something I decided was necessary after falling victim to the pandemic-15 weight gain that hit so many of us in the past year.
Next year? I hope to have to learn about a new country firsthand if I am finally able to travel again, or, perhaps, I will join a walking club, to get better prepared to fulfill my dream of  walking through the Cotswolds in England.
 
Très agréable. Though not as ambitious as you, I do enjoy learning especially while traveling. In these times of distancing I think we all still count on others. Who is your network or support system? 
I am lucky to have a family who supports my dream of being a writer, but I think that, as a writer, only another writer really understands what it involved in conjuring characters and stories out of nothing but some tenuous connections to memory and research and stray ideas that pass through our brains at random and inopportune times (like in the pool when you have no way of writing them down)!
The writing community I turn to are members of the Creative Academy. It is an online writing community that offers many opportunities to meet and interact with other writers including group writing sprints, book clubs, and opportunities to read your work. They are a great group with a very positive vibe.

You are so right. Last year I was able to attend a conference and Florida and it so energized me as an author. I also belong to two online small writers chats. Speaking of other writers, who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
I read a variety of writers- most recently quite a number from England such as Tricia Ashley, Jenny Colgan, Judy Leigh, and Ali McNamara. I love the small towns, the quirky characters, and how they make regular everyday experiences so fun.

Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
I like to sing and have been told I am not half bad. I can’t wait to be able to join a choir again.

What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
I am new to the neighbourhood as I moved this year, but the thing I most love is that I am only ten minutes from the beach. My husband and I walk our dog there on the weekend and we love to watch the herons waiting patiently for fish to pass by. 

That sounds lovely. We live near a lake with a blue heron and many other types of birds. Since you are a tea drinker, what is your favorite mug or teacup
My favourite mug is one that says Create on it. I received it the last time I met in person with my writing group here in Vancouver, BC. It was at our annual Valentine’s Day luncheon in 2020. It reminds me of happier times.
 
Simple, yet inspirational. 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?
A picture of my children, my husband and I when we were last all together, before the kids left for university.

What is your favorite childhood book? 
I was an avid reader, but I suppose my favourite as a child was Anne of Green Gables.
 
Worst household chore?
Decluttering my bookshelf – I hate to part with them!
 
I've been contemplating mine and trying to make decisions so I feel your pain. I think I know the answer to this one but... Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
The tickets!   

Do you play board games? What games do you like?
I like scrabble but I play cards more often. I have a standing cribbage game on Tuesday nights with several of my new neighbours.

Oh fun! I love to play cards DH and I play Hearts, Kings in the Corner, and Whist are a few of our favorites. About your writing, what kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
If I need to know about a certain medical condition or the occupation of my characters I read, or watch YouTube videos (or if I can, I will try it myself).  For Angel and the Neville Next Door, one of the characters is a glass blower, so I observed someone blowing glass and read a book on the subject to learn more.

How do you select the names of your characters?
I decide on the decade they were born and look up popular names from that timeframe and for the person’s heritage, on the internet.

So many of us live on a tight budget. Can you share what was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
I paid for a private mentorship early on in my career and continue to take courses and seek feedback to improve my craft.

Jeanine, it has been so nice getting to know you. Before you leave, would you share a bit about your book and where we can find out more?

Angel and the Neville Next Door
Can a cat person and a dog person find common ground? And maybe even love? Come to Sunshine Bay and find out!
A year after a difficult marital separation, Helen is alone for the holidays for the first time in years. She wants nothing more than to leave her house full of memories behind and spend her holiday somewhere where no one knows her or her ex-husband.
When her friend from Sunshine Bay asks if she would sit with Angel, her beloved cat, for the holidays, Helen jumps at the chance for a peaceful holiday away from everything she knows.
All is well until she meets the neighbors: Neville, a devilish Westie determined to escape his yard to pursue Angel, and Joe, Neville’s reluctant dog-sitter, who makes Helen’s heart beat a little faster whenever he’s around.
Joe is spending the holidays alone this year except for his son’s West Highland terrier, Neville, a dog that hasn’t met an obstacle he can’t dig under or squeeze through. Neville’s antics are interfering with Joe’s ability to get his work done and, worse, Neville has attracted the attention of the new neighbor, Helen, a bewitching woman Joe is finding hard to ignore.
The more Helen and Joe try to keep Neville happy and out of trouble, the more sparks fly between them. Will the pair solve the problem of Neville and be able to have the peaceful holiday they both crave? Or, with Neville’s help, will they see they belong together?
If you like a story of friendship, love and second chances in the second half of life, this one may be for you.
Get your copy today
https://books2read.com/u/3JXVeg
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08M3Z1DC7
https://books.apple.com/ca/book/angel-and-the-neville-next-door/id1539010579
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/angel-and-the-neville-next-door-jeanine-lauren/1138041119
https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/angel-and-the-neville-next-door
https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=NuEIEAAAQBAJ
https://www.scribd.com/book/483417101/Angel-and-the-Neville-Next-Door-Sunshine-Bay-3
More about the author
Jeanine Lauren writes stories about friendship, love and second chances in the second half of life, because let's face it, the second half is the most interesting.
Though Jeanine has been writing most of her life, many (okay, almost all) of her words have been for her day jobs, term papers, volunteer work, or used to make endless 'to do' lists she rarely looks at.
In 2019, Jeanine finally published the first book in her Sunshine Bay series -Love's Fresh Start - followed by three more so far, and is now writing as fast as she can, trying to make up for lost time.
Jeanine lives in the lower mainland of British Columbia, Canada not far from the fictional town of Sunshine Bay where most of her characters live.
To find out when Jeanine's next books are coming out, head over to her website at https://jeaninelauren.com/
​and join her mailing list.
Or follow her on
https://www.facebook.com/Jeanine-Lauren-Author-374637693142911/
https://twitter.com/NeanaLauren
https://www.instagram.com/jeaninelaurenauthor/
​https://www.pinterest.ca/neanalauren/

Only a few more days until actual winter kicks in on December 21, 2021 sometime during the night. The solstice is when the sun reaches its most southerly point in the sky for the year. In the Northern Hemisphere its the shortest day and longest night. The Southern Hemisphere has its longest day and shortest night.  I for one enjoy the daylight. A few years ago I went to Alaska near the end of April. It stayed light until nearly eleven p.m. So as the days begin to grow longer here in New Jersey I'll be looking forward to spring. How about you?  Though if I had to pick a time of year, fall is my favorite. The colors, smells, and crispness is my happy place. But spring is always a happy time. It feels like a promise of good things to come. What season is your favorite and why? 

Paws-ing for Love: A Pet Rescue Romance Christmas Story
By
Gayle M. Irwin
Sweet Contemporary Romance Holiday Novella

​Christmas Hope or Heartbreak?
Colter, Montana waltzes in brilliance during winter, with glistening snow on mountain peaks and diamond-like frost on trees and rivers. Romance and dreams flourish in this Christmas card setting. However, news of friends missing after a raging blizzard and a later accident and subsequent illness disrupt the lives of Rhiann and Levi Butler, who operate a horse ranch and pet rescue sanctuary. Will the joy of Christmas be silenced or strengthened after a pair of stray animals take refuge at the Butlers’ property? Can a cat named Mina and a Corgi christened Maverick deliver hope or will they add more heartache for a couple and community struggling with fear and sorrow?

Get your copy today at one of these online retailers
Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and other platforms at https://books2read.com/u/3RJdPj
At a Special holiday price on e-books – JUST .99 cents!

Author Bio:
Gayle M. Irwin is an award-winning author and freelance writer. She is a contributor to seven Chicken Soup for the Soul books and the author of inspirational pet books for children and adults, including the Pet Rescue Romance series, a collection of sweet, contemporary romance stories set in the Rocky Mountain West. She weaves life lessons within the pages of her works, including courage, kindness, trust, perseverance, friendship, nature appreciation, and the importance of pet rescue and adoption. She volunteers for rescue organizations and donates a percentage of book sales to such groups. Her own pets are adopted rescues. Visit her website here: www.gaylemirwinauthor.com.

Social Media Links:
 https://www.facebook.com/GayleMIrwin
www.pinterest.com/gaylemirwin 
@wyoauthor1 
https://gaylemirwinauthor.com/
amazon.com/author/gayleirwin
https://www.goodreads.com/wyoauthor1

Wow, it's Monday already. The weekend flew past. I had a great one. Here's a couple of quick updates before we get to today's guest. 
Agent Sam Carter and the Mystery of High Pointe Tower is a finalist in N.N. Light's 2021 Book Awards. Also I've taken steps to release Rock House Grill as an audio book. It's in the narration process now. Well, enough about me please help me welcome to days guest Ana Diamond.

Welcome to my fire, Ana. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I recently released my first cozy mystery with The Wild Rose Press. I grew up mainly in New York. I used to live in NYC but recently moved out for more space. I’m a mom of two kids and two cats and currently work full time as well. 

Hey, I'm a former Brooklyn girl. Other than writing what interests do you have? 
I like to go to the gym when I can. I read mainly at night before bed. I like to read mystery with romance but I usually fall asleep within a few pages.
 
It's hard to stay awake especially when it's getting dark so early. Who do you turn to for support in your writing? 
I mainly rely on The Wild Rose Press author network for support in my writing career. It’s been a steep learning curve but a rewarding one.
 
The Garden authors are amazing. So many talented and generous people. What's your worst household chore?
Folding laundry.
 
Followed in my house by putting it away. Do you have and authors who've  inspired you? 
I love Jeaniene Frost books. I love a good kick ass heroine and the Night Prince series is my favorite.
 
Yes! Cat and Bones are wonderful. I've read all her books. Do you research before your write? 
I do most of my research for books online. You Tube is a great source for getting different perspectives and can provide great visuals. 
 
Sorry but here's a touchy subject. Reviews. Do you read them? What do you do with both the good and the bad? 
I shouldn’t read reviews but after the initial sting of a bad one, I try and take in the information as constructive and hopefully apply it to the next project.
 
All right a more fun question. Which would you rather, unlimited plane tickets or never have to pay for food in a restaurant again?
I would rather never have to pay for food at restaurants. Dinning out is something my husband and I have a passion for and if it were free, we’d be thrilled!
 
I detest flying. That's why we have a camper. But I love going to fun places to eat and try all kinds of food. Speaking of eating, if you had a choice what delectable delicacy would you be having right now? 
If I could eat anything in the world it would probably be banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery. So good and you can’t stop eating it.  

Yummy, I haven't had a good banana pudding in years. What's the best money you've spent on your writing career?
I think the best money I spent as a writer was on professional editing. I think of it as part of the learning process.
 
We all start somewhere. What was your first job? 
In my first job I was a Medical Assistant in a large hospital in Washington, D.C. It was a stepping stone toward other medical positions and graduate school in the future.
 
It's a musical world and if you could choose, what song would play every time you entered a room?
The one song I would choose to play every time I walked into a room would be Endless Love by Lionel Richie. It was my wedding song and always brings back memories and a smile on my face when it plays on the radio. 

Ana, it was lovely spending time with you today. Before you leave one more favor? Please let everyone know where to find out more about your book and where to find you.

Body Conscious
by 
Ana Diamond
A small town romantic cozy mystery

​Mortician, Lily Reynolds is used to seeing bodies, but not the type murdered in her own funeral home. As Detective James Rivers zeroes in on her as the town’s number one suspect she must rise above the accusations and rumors to solve the case herself while keeping her attraction to the troubled detective at bay. 
James has a past. The last time he let someone into his life she wound up dead. Vowing never to let that happen again he has sworn off dating for good. Until he meets Lily. In his gut he knows she’s not the murderer but pressure to solve the case puts him on the wrong trail while he struggles to keep Lily off the case.  
Can she solve the case on her own or will their scandalous romance get in the way of proving her innocence?
 
 Get your copy at one of these retailors 
https://books2read.com/anadiamondauthor

Need more convincing?
Harlie’s Books: 
https://www.harliesbooks.com/posts/review-of-body-conscious-by-ana-diamond-w-a-rafflecopter-giveaway-romance-cozymystery-wildrosepress-authordiamond/
 Here's the review 
Let me count the ways that I loved this book and that I hope that there is a follow-up.  I fell in love with Lily, James, Abrams, Zachary, and Shanna.  Yes, everyone.  Even the villains in the book.  Ms. Diamond took her time in establishing each character, regardless of what their role was in the book.
James is a dream.  Tats, a cop, and always went with his gut all the time.  I also liked how he interacted with Abrams, regardless of the situation.  In fact, he never backed down from Abrams.  Abrams is a trip.  His relationship with Shanna is different but it is endearing.  I wanted more from those two but I’m hoping that Ms. Diamond has a book with them in mind.
Lily is a strong woman.  Considering everything that she had to go through in the book, most would have folded and played the damsel in distress.  Not her,  She told everything in stride and went forward.  I loved that about her.  The bar scenes are wonderful with her.
The villains in the book are richly drawn.  In fact, I actually felt kinda sorry for one of them but that’s for you to figure out.  The other one, they got what was coming.  Ugh.  What a piece of work.  That’s what really got me in the book.  Everyone has a role to play and Ms. Diamond sets them up very well.
The mystery in the book is AWESOME!  Just when you think that you have figured it out, Ms. Diamond throws a curveball which causes whiplash but it is oh so good for me.  Everything is tied perfectly in the end.  However, I really would like a follow-up with Abrams/Shanna and to see where James and Lily are in the future.
For more about Ana visit 
https://twitter.com/AuthorDiamond
https://www.facebook.com/anadiamondauthor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@anadiamondauthor?
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Greeting fellow earthlings! And aliens, because who's to say. I recently watched Tomorrow War with Chris Pratt. Yep, aliens. Anyway, we're hosting a Christmas Open House to spend time and holiday spirit with friends. Oh yes, and show off Pete's displays. It's only a short time until Christmas. The eve of the day we hope to have my son and family come up, church service, and some time sitting around the fire. Christmas morning we have a breakfast open house for friends and neighbors. Pete mans the omelet bar. I may enjoy a mimosa. This is what the holiday is about. Celebrating the Lord's birthday with friends and family.  ​

​Today's guest and I teasingly call each other cousin. We're both Stone, get it? And I wouldn't mind having a lady with such a lovely smile in the family. So, Sadira, stop blushing and tell us who you are other than your bio?
I’m an ex-expat, having lived in Germany for a total of 30 years. I’m a new Las Vegan, slowly finding my way in my desert home. I’m a performer—acting, music, dance, I love the rush of being on stage. Lately I get my fix by performing with my belly dance group. I’m an avid home chef who collects more recipes than she could possibly ever cook. I’m a baby musician who loves to play along with the big kids—mostly on ukulele, sometimes guitar. I’m a mom of one, wife of the best dude, and soon-to-be grandmother! Oh, let’s not forget my most important job: gobbler of all the steamy romance books. As long as they’re not too dark and angsty, gimme! 

I've never been to Vegas. We're planning on a stop during one of our camping adventures. Being in a new place can be an adjustment. Who is your network or support system? 
My writing posse from the former Olympia, Washington RWA are the best! I also belong to several online writing communities who provide support, critique, and a kick in the butt when I need it.

Inspiration comes from so many places especially other books and authors. Do you have someone who sparked your creativeness?
I could never pinpoint just one! Like so many authors, I started down the path to publication when I read a book and realized I could do just as well. So I did! Turns out, it’s not quite as easy as I thought, of course. Some favorite romance authors are Sonali Dev, Tessa Dare, Lucy Score, Claire Kingsley, Sarah MacLean, Alyssa Cole, Rebekah Weatherspoon, Talia Hibbert…

LOL! I did the same thing. Read a string of books that were let's say sub-par. "I can do that better." Ah, nope. Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
I can belly dance with a sword balanced on my head. And none of those Cheater McCheat-Pants padded turbans, thank you very much!

What? You woke up one day and said, "Yeah, I think my life is to safe?" We'll chat more on this later. Tell us about your neighborhood? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? 
We moved to Las Vegas a few months ago and bought a house in a 55+ community, something I thought I’d never do. We’re still unpacking and getting our bearings. There’s a lovely gym and pool, a community center where I can take art classes, a pretty little library, and an armada of bunnies and quail. Haven’t seen a coyote yet, but I have seen a few roadrunners. Meep meep! The women in our Zumba class are a hoot—especially 90-year-old Ida, who still shakes it like a diva. At the tender age of fifty-nine, it’s kind of fun to be the youngster among the seniors.
Vegas is much greener than I expected, at least in the built-up areas. I love our backyard view of the mountains, and the 70-degree November weather is a delight. My favorite place so far is the public library—the closest one is huge with an auditorium, an art gallery, and beautiful public spaces. And the Smith Center downtown offers wonderful shows. A few weeks back we saw the Branford Marsalis Quartet—amazing jazz show!

It sounds so wonderful. Please give our regards to Ida and tell her to keep shaking that thing. 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? 
For seventeen years I lived in the lovely German city of Würzburg on the Main River. The Baroque Residenz palace is a UNESCO world heritage site, and I’d drive past at least weekly, always muttering to myself, “Can’t believe I actually live here.” My Kodak moment would be my daughter and I perched on the fountain out front, under the watchful eye of Frankonia, patron of the area. Such a beautiful place! (*see photo below*)

If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why?
I’ve always been fascinated by the 1920s, a time of tremendous social change and increased freedom for women. I’m a jazz baby at heart and would love to dance away the night in a swanky speakeasy.

I'd love to wear one of those shimmery shiny dresses and cute hate. When someone develops a time machine we'll make a day (and night) of it Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Put me down for restaurants! Even in comfortable seats, long airplane flights are a drag—goodness knows I’ve done enough of those. That Frankfurt to San Francisco flight is a killer! But I’m a wannabe chef and hardcore foodie, so the chance to visit Las Vegas’s many fantastic restaurants would be a dream come true. 

Yes! I knew I likes you. Everyone else is on the plane but ahh to enjoy fabulous food. We live in such a wonderful world. What’s the most amazing natural occurrence you’ve witnessed?
December 26, 1999, we were headed from our home in Bavaria to a week-long stay in a Gîte (vacation rental) in Alsace, France, and got caught up in Cyclone Lothar, the worst European windstorm of the 20th century. Tall pines snapped and toppled before our very eyes. The whole, heavily forested area was decimated. Thank the gods we were on the westbound side of the autobahn because the fatalities occurred on the eastbound side. We saw many crushed cars, and one in which the driver was beheaded by a falling tree that sheared the car’s roof clean off. Emergency workers had covered the body with a blanket, but the poor driver’s fate was clear enough. Chilling! 

That is awesomely terrifying. Thank goodness you were safe. No matter what an author pens some sort of research has to happen. What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
I enjoy writing about all my woulda/coulda/shoulda alternate career paths—bookshop owner, bar owner, boutique owner, chef, food truck owner, art gallery owner, artist…I seem to have a small business fetish. So I end up doing lots of research on these career fields, as well as medical conditions, legal questions, and other details I want to get right. I’ve interviewed cops, firefighters, doctors, bartenders, graphic designers, a process server, and many more. When I tell people I’m working on a novel and want to portray their job correctly and respectfully, they’re always generous with their expertise.  

What was your hardest scene to write?
Killing off a character is always tough, even if they die of natural causes. Family reconciliations make me cry too. But you know what they say: “No tears from the writer, no tears from the reader.” I like to take my readers along on a full-spectrum emotional journey, and that means tackling the hard stuff.

I have several scenes that make me cry in various novels. In one of my WIPs, a main character gets gone. It's tough. That said, Sadira, will you leave a little peek at your book and where to find out more about it and you? Thank you so much for stopping by, Cuz.

Oh, my! Sadira shared a picture of The Baroque Residenz palace. A UNESCO world heritage site. It's so gorgeous. What do you think?

Christmas Rekindled
by
Sadira Stone
(Rated R)

Bartender River Lundqvist has a damn good reason for hating Christmas. Bangers Tavern is the perfect place to lay low over the holidays—until Charlie walks in. His first encounter with the saucy server nine years ago was utter humiliation. Her reappearance stirs up powerful desires and hopes for a new start. But the timing is all wrong.
Back in Tacoma to care for her estranged dad over the holidays, freelance web designer Charlie Khoury braces herself for the suckiest Christmas ever. A temporary job at Bangers Tavern gives her a chance to escape Dad’s criticism and blow off some steam. But why does the hunky bartender seem to hate her?    
A pretend girlfriend is just what River needs to keep his family off his back—until a kiss under the mistletoe flares hot enough to melt the North Pole. When greedy developers threaten Bangers Tavern, River and Charlie must team up to save it. Their sizzling chemistry feels like the real thing—but everyone knows rebound relationships don’t last.
Come to Bangers Tavern for an enemies-to-lovers tale of reconciliation, found family, holiday cocktails, and the steamiest Christmas miracle ever.
Christmas Rekindled delivers a guaranteed HEA, no cliffhangers, and is on sale for just $2.99 through 12/27, so treat yourself today!
Universal book link: https://books2read.com/b/3JjPxP
Embedded: Click to get your copy of Christmas Rekindled.
Review:
Once again, author Sadira Stone has not failed her fans with this colorful setting, which she populated with unique characters and even more unique events designed to save the bar. [Gus the Grump in his SpongeBob pajama shirt to celebrate PJ Nite was a particularly fun touch.] As well, her skill for nicely subtle sexual tension, slowly building to a mind-blowing crescendo is well done. For fans of well-drawn plot lines with steamy romance, terrific characters and snappy dialogue, this is the book for you. 
On a scale of 1-5, Christmas Rekindled earns a 7.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
 
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Before we get started I want to give a Birthday shout out to my husband Pete. He is my greatest supporter and cheerleader. Fun facts about Pete. 
He was born on St. Nicholas Day (I totally believe this is why he so into decorating).
The Mr. is one smart cookie. He was an honor student. To this day he knows his history, science and politics. 
He is a life member of the local fire department and after many years of service in fire fighting, he continues teaching prevention in the local schools and daycares. Known throughout the county as "Fireman Pete."
Pete is deeply involved in church ministry. Each summer he joins a group to go and either build or rehabilitate homes in West Virginia. This year for Thanksgiving he help raise money and then distributed over 80 baskets to families in need so they could enjoy the holiday too.
TWF my love. I'm proud to be your other half. 

My guest today is the lovely Susan Payne who is rocking it in the author world. So, without further ado please welcome her to the fire. Susan, I can't believe what you are up to since our last visit. Can you tell us all the news?
I’m excited about my Midwest Mail Order Bride series. I can’t believe how quickly these were published. And all four are being released practically together. This is a rarity as far as I know. The first one, Montana Lineman, was one of the first stories I put down on paper. It began as omniscient and now is POV to the main characters. The second, The Bride Wagon, came to me after reading about mail order brides simply heading west and hoping things went well.  Sort of like the orphan trains sent out from New York. I always have a basic trope and then put a twist to it to keep it interesting.

Congratulations! I sounds wonderful and like a lot of work. But there's so much more to an author. Tell me,  who are you other than your bio? 
I have always considered myself a chameleon. I’m not usually hot nor cold. Need company or yearn to be alone. Watch TV or want to read/write. I have always worn more than one hat. Done several full-time jobs while never being employed. Many mothers and wives do the same everyday of their lives.  We are daughters and wives and mothers – and if we are lucky, get to do a little of what we want.

How right you are. With all that, I do hope you get to have some fun though for yourself.
My hobby is collecting – furniture and “pretties” which are items that catch my fancy like shiny-glittery things.  Christmas is my favorite time of year since it is considered part of the season to put out glam type wreaths and fancy candles. Even our kitchen towels can be exotic with elves or snow-covered villages.

I adore shiny things as well. And I believe you and my dearly beloved would concur on all things Christmas. An author can spend a lot of time alone. But we are social creatures. Who are your go-to people. 
My daughters are my support team although a couple of them feel uncomfortable reading my work.  I start out safe enough usually. My heroines are notoriously GP and then my heroes enter the story and it becomes R.  I cannot control my heroes – not in my stories and not in real life. So, I have heard that some of my children hum through parts of my stories – la-la-la-la, to keep from being mortified by my character’s actions.

LOL! I can imagine them singing while plugging their ears. Children, even grown up, have a hard time thinking of their parents as a vital sexual human being as well as a mom. Are their any writers you think influenced you?
I can’t say any one author is an inspiration. I read everything that came into my hands. I found them at work, at school, and abandoned by my much older uncle. Books I should not have been reading and books I should not have understood. I never set down to write a book let alone have multiple publishers and 21 books (27 stories) in print in such a short time. I don’t think I deserve it, but I’m not going to stop. I’m finally getting everyone out of my head and down on paper – or at least into an eBook.

Of course, you deserve it.  I'm sure many authors would agree writing is hard work, then the editing and marketing. Besides work though there has to be fun. What is something enjoyable?
I realized I have a lot of fun – mostly with my family.  My husband says he loves to sit back and listen to me and my children talk over the dinner table. He says there is so much laughter it makes him jealous he isn’t part of it.  He could be, of course, only he has trouble keeping up with all of us. We are talking on several levels to multiple people at a time. Keeping the conversation going is what we all do well.

When my sister and I start yacking around my husband, he's the same. I say often you've got to keep up honey. What's your neighborhood like?
I lived in a place no longer than six months once I was married. Then we built a home and stayed almost five years – then we built a bigger home and remained there to this day. That was 43 years ago. We are in a field of our own – 26 acres – and it is where my kids call home.  I don’t think I’ll ever leave it – not willingly.  The kids say I can’t move because all the pets are buried in the back yard…not sure where I’m to be placed.  Probably next to the Guinea pigs.

Sounds wonderful! I'd stay there too. In your opinion what should be taught in schools that often is neglected?
Education has always fascinated me – probably because I was undiagnosed dyslexic. I could read and understand anything – spelling, not so much. It affected my speech since I picture words in my head as I say them.  Kind of like reading a teleprompter. I find I do that with some of my stories, too.  Neat, but I depend on editors and spell-check since I’m not to be trusted. I always thought students should be taught to read a driving map and be able to balance a checkbook. The new apps have taken away that need so now I think they need to be taught common sense.

We do depend on our electronics. I can't even remember phone numbers. There was a time I could rattle of almost everyone's number that I knew. What song would you want to hear each time you entered a room? 
The song I’d like to hear every time I walk into a room would be Sugar by the Archies.  You know, real up-beat…”Sugar, hey, Honey, Honey…You are my candy girl and you got me wanting you….” Always makes me smile – and, yes, I have it on record that my hubby plays for me.

Uh oh, I have an earworm now. What was your first job?
My first job was babysitting for 3 kids.  I walked to their house and fed them breakfast, lunch and watched them play.  They were all school age (I was 12) and I loved that they had the Reader’s Digest Condensed Books.  I love those and my mother couldn’t afford more than a year of them. So, I cleaned their house completely – I also cleaned my mother’s since she worked outside the home – and read the rest of the day. I was only filling in for an older sitter but they “paid” me for cleaning by buying me the most expensive blouse I ever owned. I was happy getting to read the Reader’s Digest.

There may still be some Reader's Digest books somewhere in my house. What is your worst chore to do in the house?
I love all household chores – or, at least, used to. I would get up, dress, make the bed and then do the same for 5 kids, picking up the laundry from their rooms and baths. Take it downstairs with me to wash clothes while I fed kids then cleaned up kitchen and got out dinner to prep. I vacuumed and dusted 2000 sq ft everyday. I would do upstairs one day and the downstairs the next. Basement rooms were done weekly. Cleaned half-bath daily. Made lunch for kids at home and was free to read the afternoon away while laundry finished and dinner cooked to be on the table at 6 pm every night. Help with homework (if I wasn’t taking kids to anything), watch TV with family kibitzing the whole time. Put kids to bed and then watch more TV with hubby adding in points of view etc. till 11 pm. Then to bed. Yes, I was certifiable, but I have learned my lesson and often leave my bed unmade (Gasp!). Monthly I would wash every window, polish the wood doors and baseboards, appliances and garage.  Yup, did I mention certifiable?  And read over 50 books a month. 

I'm speechless😵 so lets move on. What advice would you give others?
If I had anything to do over again it would be to stay with my writing when I first thought to publish a book in the early 90s. I was old then, but sooo much older when I finally got the gumption to put words to paper, about 2016 and didn’t submit to publishers until late 2019. I’m proof you don’t have to be ahead of the crowd – you can run along with them right down the middle.  If you have extra words that need to be free – let them out.  Even if its only for your own enjoyment.  Let the words and ideas flow.

Susan thank you so much for spending time at the fire with us. Before you leave and you share a bit about your books and where to find them and you?​

Happy December! What an action packed time is is for so many people. Today we're celebrating my DH, Peter's birthday with friends. His birthday is actually December 6th which is St. Nicholas Day. It must be where he gets his love of all things Christmas. We'll be going out to dinner tonight at a local restaurant with friends and then off to the Christmas Light Show at Skyland's Ballpark. All of us will pile in the pickup including Hali. I'll have a thermos of hot chocolate, some warm blankets and bells to ring as we drive around the field. Here's the link for what I'm talking about skylandsstadium.com/lightshow But before all that happens I've got a sit down with today's lovely guest and I can't wait for you to meet her. So the fire is lit, the cups are filled and we want you to be part of the conversation.

Katy shares a gorgeous picture of Devil's Tower from her trip. Anyone else keep thinking Close Encounters Of The Third Kind?

Wrong Turn Christmas
by
Katy Eeten

Can a Christmas in crisis be saved by one wrong turn?
PG

A peek inside
April is desperate to eliminate her dad’s cancer bills so her family can enjoy the holidays. But, on her way to get legal assistance, she ends up at the wrong house. There, she finds a warm and caring soul… but a boyfriend won’t solve her family’s financial issues.
Jake is surprised to find a beautiful woman on his doorstep asking for help. It’s a case of mistaken identity, but after spending just a little time with April, he knows they are perfect for each other—even if she does have bad taste in football teams. Except April is facing an uphill battle, and he believes he has nothing of real value to offer. Or does he?
One wrong turn might just end up turning a Christmas crisis into a Christmas miracle.
Get your copy today at
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09L4J3PDZ/ 
​
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