What’s your preference, coffee, tea, cocoa, wine? The camp fridge is like the Starship Enterprise. You speak it, you get it.
All of the above. I must have my morning coffee, I often enjoy afternoon tea (perhaps my English heritage), wine with dinner, and if it’s cold outside or I’m having chocolate withdrawals, I want cocoa.  
​
Tell us, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. If you’re not the camping type. Tell us about your favorite adventure or vacation. What made it special to you.
Growing up in Wyoming, camping is a given. As a kid, my dad’s idea of a family vacation was a packtrip into the mountains. One of the most memorable was a trip into Eagle Creek Meadows. I was probably only six at the time but rode my pony the entire way (I believe the meadows are about 10 miles from the trailhead), except for when my dad thought a river was too deep or swift for me to safely cross he would put me in front of him on his big black horse. My mom would have to lead my pony since my dad was leading the packhorse with all our gear for a week in the wilderness. Over the years, I’ve done all kinds of camping. Recently my husband and I got a camper van, which is a little more my speed nowadays than a packtrip into the remote grizzly country on horseback.

Tell us about your latest project and what's on the horizon.  
I’ve just released the fourth installment in the Risky Research Series, A Measure of Madness (blurb, excerpt, and buy links below). Since finishing A Measure of Madness and waiting for it to be released, I’ve written a novelette (A Formidable Foe) and a micro-read (Midnight in Montana). Both are prequels to the series and free to download. I’m also working on the fifth and likely final installment in the series.   

Do you have a tagline? Life Motto?
I came across a quote a while back by Wilferd Peterson that I’ve adopted as my motto and aspiration as I move forward into the next phase of my life, “Practice the art of adventure by breaking the chain of routine, renewing your life through reading new books, traveling to new places, making new friends, taking up new hobbies and adopting new viewpoints.”

How long did it take you from conception to publication?
Writing the novel didn’t take long (Probably only 6 months) since I already had it sketched out when I conceived the Risky Research Series. However, the publication process can be lengthy. My publisher sets the timeline for editing, cover design, and ultimately when the book will be released, so it can take a while, and it’s pretty much out of my control once I hand it over.

Are there any mentors, authors, or books you would like to give a shout-out to?
One of my favorite authors is James Rollins. I’ve read all of his books that he has written under James Rollins and solo. I also had the opportunity to meet him at a book signing, and he was great – funny, personable, and informative.

What does literary success look like to you?
I’ve had ten novels published, which feels pretty good, but one day I would love to see one of my novels in a bookstore at the airport as I browse titles between flights.

Do you have any tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others. 
Try to keep expectations reasonable. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve talked to believe that just because you have a book published, you’re raking in the dough. For most writers, nothing can be further from the truth. You really have to write for the joy of writing.
 
Now the fun questions  What is your favorite mug or teacup, if neither, T-shirt with graphic or Meme?
I have a coffee cup with a classic National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation quote on it. It makes me chuckle, so I use it year-round, not just during the holidays.

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 wedding photo. We had an outdoor wedding just outside of Yellowstone National Park – it was stunning. I will be celebrating 35 years with my soulmate this June, and every time I see our youthful faces in that photo, it brings back a flood of wonderful memories.

What’s your favorite cookie?
I love ginger snaps, but not just any old ginger snap. They must be homemade, really gingery, and super soft.

Last book or movie that made you cry?
Pretty much everything makes me cry, which is why I write and read adventure and suspense. I’m not particularly fond of crying, so I avoid sad books and movies as much as possible, but one that always sticks in my mind because I cried the entire movie was P.S. I Love You. After that, I’ve asked more questions before agreeing to a “girl’s night” at my neighbors.

What’s your favorite ‘90s jam?
Although I believe it was released in 1989, The Dance by Garth Brooks was and still is my favorite Garth tune. I like rock music equally as well as country, but the ’90s fell a little short in the rock genre for me. My high school years were more about Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, Aerosmith, Heart, and Journey. 

Kim, thank you so much for stopping by the fire. Before you head out on your next adventure will you leave us with a book teaser and where readers can find out more  about you?

FBI agent Devyn Nash’s pursuit of a deadly organization heats up in this fourth installment of the Risky Research series.
​by Kim McMahill

The FBI locates the mastermind behind Coterie, but attempts to bring him in result in a shootout that sends Coterie’s members scrambling for cover. When Devyn’s partner is left fighting for his life in a Puerto Rican hospital, she becomes more determined than ever to bring them to justice.

Devyn’s decision to ignore her orders and pursue the head of Coterie to Brazil puts her job and her relationship with Sheriff Gage Harris in jeopardy, but she is unwilling to allow those responsible for so much death to live out their lives in paradise.
 
Further Tease
Devyn did as ordered as tears streamed down her checks. She felt like a coward running, but knew it was retreat or die.
Bullets rained around her as she ran in a zig-zag pattern, trying to avoid being hit. She had almost reached the truck when a bullet grazed her ankle, sending her tumbling to the ground. She scrambled to her feet. Fueled with adrenaline, she ignored the pain as she hobbled the last twenty feet to the truck.
As Sofia’s arm lowered, J.R. walked toward her. He knelt on the ground and placed his lips to hers for a long and tender moment. He then slowly rose to his feet and pointed the gun at Sofia.
Devyn couldn’t watch. She threw the truck into reverse and hit the gas. The truck’s tire’s spun and skidded on the dirt and gravel as she raced backwards until she reached a spot wide enough to turn around. Cranking the wheel hard, she spun the vehicle and barreled toward BR-116.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Measure-Madness-Risky-Research-ebook/dp/B08TX7C1BZ/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-measure-of-madness-kim-mcmahill/1138684987?ean=9781522398837
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-measure-of-madness
 
Blog: http://www.kimmcmahill.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimmcmahill
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/KimMcMahillAuthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimmcmahill/
Goodreads author page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/849945.Kim_McMahill
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Kim-McMahill/e/B007IK0EJW/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kim-mcmahill
 

Happy Saturday! Just a dab of housekeeping this morning. Many of you know that Rock House Grill is celebrating a 1 year book birthday. The .99 sale is on until April 16th and here's a universal link to all the online booksellers books2read.com/u/49No0k .
Also there are several rafflecopters going on. 
www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ac49ce0b16/  from my  https://booksonthemic.com/ podcast
www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/post/rock-house-grill-a99 ran a book spotlight and here's the rafflecopter for that www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/92db7750105 
Okay, enough about me. You know that making new friends is exciting, but visiting with old friends is satisfying. Today's guest has been at the campfire before but we love Colleen and are thrilled to have her return. So let's light the fire and pour some drinks. Sit back and enjoy our conversations. And as always we'd love for you to engage. Drop a comment or ask a question. 

Welcome to the campfire, Colleen. What are you hankering for today? The camp fridge is like Hermione Grangers bag. I reach in and pull out what ever I need. 
Thick, black coffee, nothing added to it! 

Ha, I'm pulling out the briki, and you're going to get Greek coffee. It's a strong brew, served with foam on the top and the grounds at the bottom of the cup. How's that for hot and thick? Tell us, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. Tell us about your camping trip and While it's cooking tell us about your adventures. What made it special to you?
A smiling turtle burned my first camping memory into my mind forever. Being around 4 years old, I poked through weeds while others fished until I came upon a turtle the circumference of a Frisbee hiding under a bush with a huge smile on his face. I reported him to my parents who assured me turtles didn’t smile. I returned to the bush, peered under it, and there he was, grinning up at me. To prove to me that turtles in general weren’t happy, my parents laid their fishing poles aside and followed me to the bush where the turtle sat, grinning up at them. The turtle turned out to be a snapper, which meant I was led off a safe distance while my dad investigated and discovered a fishing hook lodged sideways in in the turtle’s mouth stretching it into a grin. It only made him look happy, which snappers never are, especially this one.

Poor guy. But I'm glad you were safe. Snappers and put a hurting on you. But they are so cool with their prehistoric appearance. Tell us about your projects. I know you usually have a lot going on.
My last book was, “Letters and Lies” the humorous jaunt of an Old West spinster who after being jilted decides to head west and go after her man anyway. 

Do you have a tagline?
Why wait for a new door when you can wedge the one that just closed open again?

What kind of timelines do you have for working on a project?
It generally takes me a year to write and polish a book, then around nine months for the final publication to be released. I had to do a serious rewrite on the beginning of this book (beginnings and endings are crucial to a good story), so it slowed my normal timeline.

It's time for a weekly shout-out to. Who inspired or helped you get where you are today?
As to classics, I love “The Monk” by Matthew Lewis. His book is considered the first Gothic Horror, a harrowing depiction of good vs evil within a person. My favorite living authors are Louise Penny (mystery) and Laura Strickland (a variety of genres, and does them all well).

What does literary success look like to you?
At first, being published by a traditional publisher meant success. When one of my books was picked up by one, success changed to being traditionally published twice. After that, I dared to dream I’d be traditionally published three times. I think I have six traditionally published books now, so I guess I’ve achieved some measure of success.

Life Hacks for Authors.  Do you have any tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others. I’m also interested in how you have been managing your life and writing with COVID-19.
I don’t know if this qualifies as a life hack, but I’ve worked hard to be a good listener. While someone is speaking I don’t ponder what I will say next. When they finish I refrain from sharing a similar experience that shifts the conversation to about me. I either ask questions or make comments that move the subject forward. I focus, don’t interrupt, and only add a scenario about myself only if it adds to what they’ve said. Good listening is a gift that tells someone they are important.         
As for COVID, since I’m far from a social butterfly, my activities – writing, outdoors activities, helping on the family farm – changed or suffered little. A more interesting story would be one of my very social friends who thought the world was coming to an end.

True listening is a gift and a talent. Focusing on what other's are saying take practice and will. Thank you for sharing that. I think if we all abided to that, our world would be a much better place.

Now the fun questions If they made a movie about your life, what would the title be and who would play you?
She Meant Well” Oh, wait, no, that’s what I want on my tombstone. 

What’s your favorite fairy tale?
The Emperor’s New Clothes. Is that a fairy tale?


Favorite childhood book?
Little Hippo

What weird talent do you have?
I’m a crack-shot with a rifle

What’s your go-to coffee order?
Espresso

If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
​Since I can’t have wheat or sugar, I’d choose a cinnamon roll. I miss those!

No wheat or sugar! And here I was going to ask my husband Pete to make us some of his amazing homemade cinnamon buns. Oh, well how about some veggies? 

“Letters and Lies”
by Colleen L. Donnelly

Louise Archer boards a westbound train in St. Louis to find the Kansas homesteader who wooed and proposed to her by correspondence, then jilted her by telegram – Don't come, I can't marry you. Giving a false name to hide her humiliation, her lie backfires when a marshal interferes and offers her his seat.
 
Marshal Everett McCloud intends to verify the woman coming to marry his homesteading friend is suitable. At the St. Louis train station, his plan detours when he offers his seat to a captivating woman whose name thankfully isn't Louise Archer.

Everett's plans thwart hers, until he begins to resemble the man she came west to find, and she the woman meant to marry his friend.


Read further from Letters and Lies
“He wrote and changed your plans? Why didn’t you tell me? You know I love hearing his letters.”
Everyone loved hearing his letters. Or at least they’d pretended to. I glanced at my friends, especially the one who’d first suggested I correspond with her husband’s homesteading friend in Kansas who was ready to look for a wife. She dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief while she flicked the fingers of her other hand in a weak wave. I dredged my soul in search of a smile. The man she’d introduced me to truly had penned everything I’d ever wanted in a husband, months of letters which convinced Mama Jim was my open door. Letters I’d foolishly carted from family to friend to blather every word like a desperate spinster. Drat.
“He didn’t send his change of plans in a letter, Mama. He sent them in a telegram.” Don’t come, I can’t marry you. The only words I never shared.  
“Well I imagine your Jim has a surprise for you and didn’t have time to send a letter before you left for Crooked Creek. How thoughtful to wire you instead.” 
Thoughtful…I felt poisoned and Mama would too if she ever found out Jim had shut my open door. Which she wouldn’t, since as soon as I got out there and found him, I’d wedge it back open again. 

Where to get your copy of "Letters and Lies”
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2yNFGNv
Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3aXuMCl 
iTunes: https://apple.co/2YinxBY
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/3bmGatt
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/3pBNDtZ

To find out more about Colleen
http://www.colleenldonnelly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ColleenLDonnelly
http://www.Goodreads.com/colleenldonnelly
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/colleen-l-donnelly
http://amzn.to/37vcnO4​

Hello, everyone. Well, March seems to be going out like a lamb at least here in Northern New Jersey. We've taken a couple of opportunities to sit out on our newly refurbished deck around the propane firepit. With April coming in this week I'm looking forward to Honesdale, PA and glamping with the grands. 2Hoot has a new roof after some tree damage and everything seems to be in full working order. Did you hear that? It was me knocking on wood. I'm also looking forward to April for another reason. I'll be celebrating Rock House Grills 1st birthday. Starting April 2, it will be on sale for 99₡. Also check out my much more page for a list of bloggers helping me celebrate. 
Now let's light the candles and welcome Gayle back to the fire. Hi Gayle, make a birthday wish for some refreshments and we'll see what we can do.
 Well, since my 60th birthday took place two days ago, I think we should go all out with champagne! 

Oh yeah. The camper fridge has a bottle of pink bubbly just waiting for you. I know that you've camped before but tell us about it and your latest adventures. 
My family took camping trips when I was a child; now I prefer staying in cabins. Last fall, I discovered some KOAs have cabins, and my husband and I stayed in one during a trip to Yellowstone National Park to celebrate our 20th anniversary. For my 60th birthday this weekend, we’re staying at friends’ ranch. They have a guest house, and I love visiting and staying here! During spring, sandhill cranes stop in the fields to forage, and the nearby Powder River provides water, not only for the cranes and other wildlife, but also for the ranch’s horses and llamas. This has become one of my writing sanctuaries, as it’s only 70 miles from our home. Nature and tranquility reside here, and inspiration abides, stimulating my creative juices.

That sounds wonderful. I know about the KOA cabins. For Christmas the past couple of years, Santa gives my son's family a gift certificate and they enjoy a week each year in one of them. Some have teepees and Conestoga wagons. Here's a link to check it out. koa.com/ways-to-stay/cabins  Gayle, tell us about your latest project. What book are you talking about today, and what’s on the horizon.
My latest release is “My Montana Love,” a sequel to my first romance novel in my Pet Rescue Romance series, “Rescue Road.” The new story looks at the primary characters in my first book five years later. Their blissful life on a Paradise Valley, Montana ranch is challenged when Levi experiences a health crisis. A much-anticipated anniversary trip to Ireland postponed, a financial situation she didn't expect, and a past experience she thought she'd put behind her causes Rhiann to face critical decisions. Can she keep the property solvent and her marriage intact, or will these incidents cloud her judgment and cause chaos she cannot control? 
​
And your next project?
A holiday novella set near Grand Teton National Park called “In the Shadow of Mount Moran” as part of my Pet Rescue Romance series. The release is planned for early November.

Do you have a tagline? Life Motto?
My author business is Waggin’ Tales Inspirational Pet Stories, and my goal is to inspire, educate, and entertain.

How long do books take you?
I’m an indie author but some projects take longer than others. Originally, the title of the book was “My Montana Valentine,” and I intended to release it as a Valentine’s Day story. The characters had more to say, so it became an early spring release and the ending encompasses St. Patrick’s Day and the first day of spring. 

Are there any mentors, authors, or books other than yours you would like to give a shout-out to?
I’ve discovered a plethora of authors who also write romance that include animals. Most recently, I’ve learned about Melissa Storm and have ordered some of her books for my springtime reading, including “The Churchdogs of Charleston” and “A Place to Belong.”

I'll have to check her books out. Literary success is different for everyone. What does it mean to you?
I enjoy touching lives with entertaining, inspirational reads and I hope that translates into helping more pet rescue and adoption organizations, as I donate a part of my book sales to such groups. I’d also one day like to become a snowbird, spending winters in southern climates and getting out of FEETS of snow, as my state has experienced this month.

Do you have any tips you would like to share? 
Persevere – you never fully know the impact your writing has on others. I received an email last year from someone I didn’t know during a time I was questioning if I should continue writing. She told me, “I just love your books! I can’t wait for the next one in your Pet Rescue Romance series!” That doesn’t happen often for me, but it’s just the encouragement I need to keep the stories flowing!

Now for some quick, get to know me better questions. What is your favorite mug or teacup?
Years ago, a friend gifted me a mug that says, “Rescue Mom.” I love that cup because all my pets are rescued animals.

Once upon a time, 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?
I was speaking at a school more than 12 years ago and with me was my blind dog, Sage. (I became a children’s author with a book about her life). My dog meandered to the back of the group of kids, who were sitting on the floor, and sat next to a boy. I’d glance back now and then to see Sage still sitting there and as I finished up my presentation, I saw the boy was petting Sage with one hand and his other arm was draped across her shoulders. As I left with Sage ten minutes later, the teacher told me the boy’s grandfather had died earlier in the week. I’ve never forgotten that scene of my blind dog giving comfort and friendship to a sad little boy. 

Hey, stop it. You made me tear up. Sniff. Now, teach me something I don’t know in two sentences.
Pets benefit people’s mental and physical health, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and encouraging exercise, helping to improve people’s cardiovascular health. 

If you were an animated character, who would you be and why? 
Lassie – I like helping people and living in the country!

Which superhero would you like to be existing or you make up? Wonder Woman

Last book or movie that made you cry? “A Dog’s Way Home”

Gayle thank you for giving us a glimpse into your life and work. Before you leave, will you share some more information about your work and where folks can find out more about you?​

Horses at the Kaycee WY ranch.

​But for now my guest is patiently waiting. Hi, Daryl. What can I offer you?
Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa with 3 mini marshmallows and a hint of cinnamon. 

Yummy! That sounds delish. I think I'll join you. And while those marshmallows get gooey, tell us, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. Tell us about your camping experience. What made it special to you.
My final year of my undergrad, we went camping – in February – in Northern Ontario. They divided us into groups and did leadership skills and my group did awesomely. Which as it turns out was not a good thing. They drove out to the wilderness, dropped us off and said we had a week to get home. We had an experienced guide, but he was only there to help if we got into a life threatening situation. Things he did not consider to be life threatening
1. The ice broke on the lake and a student fell in. Yes, we got him out.
2. Another student stepped into an unsprung bear trap that didn’t snap because the snow was so deep.
3. Camping outside in tents in -40.
4. My dislocated shoulder. Long story!
And lastly
5. The diva who shoved her hand out her tent the first morning and wailed that her moisturizer had frozen.
We all survived!

LOL, that is some experience. I camped once in Minnesota when it was ten degrees. Nah, minus 40 sorry. I wouldn't even take 2HOOTs in that. Tell us about your latest project. What book are you talking about today, and what’s on the horizon.
My first attempt at a medieval fantasy romance – The Last Dragon. Someone mentioned I should write a book with a dragon and then one started flying around in my head. Currently I am working on 9?? different projects. I received my rights back on some books and I am getting them ready to indie pub, plus I am switching my alter-writer ego from Victoria Adams – to me. Only one name to keep track of – plus… no that’s enough for now.

I'm a huge fan of dragon stories and I loved this one. If you're interested you can read my review here www.goodreads.com/review/show/3835814416
Do you have a tagline? Life Motto?
My writer motte – Picasso wasn’t always Picasso. At one point, he was just Pablo, painting weird pictures.  What it means is – don’t follow the rules. Break out of the box. Ignore all those people who say – you can’t do that!

I love that. Nay sayers begone. Daryl, how long did it take you from conception to publication?
This book took years. Several things happened to cause that – but the biggest is I evolved from a hot romance author to a sweet one and it is because of this book. A scorching romance did not fit the characters.

Are there any mentors, authors, or books?
Shout outs to Viv, Cynthia, Jenna and Mart. Authors friends who have been there with ideas and help for many years.

What does literary success look like to you?
One fan letter. The first book I wrote, I got an email from a reader who loved it. That was the success I needed.

Life Hacks for Authors.  Do you have any tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others.  I’m also interested in how you have been managing your life and writing with COVID-19.
Life hack with covid – do what you gotta do. If ignoring your writing gets you through this – then stop. Not writing does not make you not-a-writer. No one should condemn you because you are taking a break. This is a bizarre moment in time and some will find solace in writing, and some with not.
 
Now the fun questions 
What is your favorite mug or teacup?
A friend gave me a hot chocolate mug that says – Stay Weird. The words are upside down until you drink from the mug. I love my mug.

Teach me something I don’t know in two sentences.
The marital art secret to breaking a board – is not to strike the front of the board. Focus on the other side of the board, so that your hand/fist/elbow/foot will go through the board to strike the target. (I have a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do)

What’s your favorite cartoon, and why?
Road Runner. No idea. I just love the little dude. Beep! Beep!

Favorite childhood book?
Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild. The copy in my elementary school  library had only been taken out by me. We had to sign the card. I filled the entire card.

What’s your go-to coffee order?
I’m that person. What person? That one person who dislikes coffee. I’ve never drank a cup of it. It drives servers in morning restaurants crazy. They keep trying to fill my mug.

Daryl, thank you so much for stopping by my fire today. Would you please leave us with a bit about your book and where we can find out more about you?

What do dragons, knights and romance have in common? Grab a copy of multi-published author Daryl Devore’s medieval fantasy romance – The Last Dragon and discover the answer.

A sorcerer craving dominance merged with a dragon, the power overwhelmed him causing him to split into three dragons. Demora ruled thought, but was lost in time. Yidithe offered protection, shining like the light of the sun. Ayrradex craved chaos, revelling in destroying souls.
Many knights died, attempting to slay the devil beast. One knight, Prince Hawkyns, did not fear death. He’d lost everything. Away on a mission when Ayrradex attacked his father’s kingdom, Penrythe, Hawkyns returned to find his noble father – feeble and defeated. His wise mother – crazed. His beautiful wife and unborn child - dead. Only a pile of ashes remained for him to bury. He knelt before his King and vowed to slay the devil-beast or be slain.
Derry was born with powers that terrified her parents. They delivered her to a nunnery to be raised in secret. Jathe, a wise sorceress, discovered the young girl and trained her to one day use the secret hidden in her soul.
Legends spoken around campfires hinted the sole way to destroy Ayrradex was when the hearts of a knight and a golden dragon became one. But after a vicious battle with Ayrradex, the golden dragon was thought to be dead.
Can Prince Hawkyns’s bravery and Derry’s powers end the reign of the devil-beast’s terror?
​
Amazon - ebook - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QPW4CVF
Amazon - print - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QRVJ59P
Books2read – universal link - ebook – https://books2read.com/The-Last-Dragon
Books2read –universal link – print -  https://books2read.com/The-Last-Dragon-
BookSprout – https://booksprout.co/book/69199/the-last-dragon
 
Social Media Links – I am at several places, but these are where I hang out the most
Blog - https://daryldevore.blogspot.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/daryl.devore
Twitter - https://twitter.com/daryldevore
Newsletter – daryl.devore@yahoo.ca

​Welcome Roxanne! I'm so happy to have you at my campfire and camping is about hospitality. Tell me what I can get for you. ​The camp fridge is like the Starship Enterprise. You speak it, you get it. 
A nice, dry champagne with very tiny bubbles, please, and a little Brie to go along with it. 

I'm now singing Tiny Bubbles as I head to the fridge. That sounds delish, I have some crusty bread to go with it. 🍾 While I pour, tell us, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. Tell us about your camping or  if you’re not the camping type. How about your favorite adventure or vacation. What made it special to you. 
Several years ago, okay, lots of years ago, I belonged to a scuba diving club, and on weekends, we camped and dove together. One of my favorite places was the west side of San Juan Island in Washington State, where I now live. The water is cold and clear, and the current runs fast, so there is a lot of life that you never see from the surface. 
When we put our regulators in our mouths, tucked, and dove, we immediately arrived in another world. It was always a moment of surprise, exhilaration, and joy. Rocky walls cascade downward, home to plants and animals alike, anemones, starfish, crab, abalone, many types of fish, seals, and even, at times, the majestic orcas. In the evening, we pulled a string of picnic tables together and cooked fresh seafood of all types; whatever we had captured that day, and shared the bounty of the sea. Ahh! The good old days.

That sounds wonderful. I've snorkeled but never dove. Camping near water- nothing better. Can you share with us about your latest project, and what’s on the horizon. 
My debut novel, Murder Unrehearsed, came out last fall. I loved writing it because in the world I created, justice happens. The good guys find strength they didn’t know they had; because they do, they win, and the bad guys get their just desserts. I only wish it happened that way all the time in real life. 
I’m hoping to finish polishing my second book this month. It’s a suspense novel rather than a mystery, and I can’t decide whether to call it Murder Unsuspected or Murder Undetected. As you might guess, it’s a black widow story. It takes place in the south of France, in a little hilltop town where everyone knows everyone else’s business, but no one suspects a thing. 
I’ve begun a third novel, set in Paris, my favorite city. It’s going to be a heist or caper if I ever figure out the difference between the two and how to write it.

People are always interested in how long it takes and author from conception to publication? 
From start to finish, twenty years. For the first twelve years, I was working full time, building a house on weekends, and taking care of elderly parents, so I didn’t have a lot of time to write. And often Murder Unrehearsed lay dormant while I focused on other projects, including a children’s book, two historical romances, and a historical fiction novel. (None of those are finished, BTW.) Also, I write a monthly column consisting of a short personal essay and a recipe for Pacific Yachting magazine, which is published in Vancouver, Canada.

Do you have a tagline? Life Motto? 
Life is too short to drink bad wine.

Are there any mentors, authors, or books you would like to give a shout-out to? 
My good friend Jeffrey D. Briggs, author of the Seattle Waterfront Mystery series, has been a long-time supporter and critique partner, and especially when I began to write, made me write better. My critique group and many, many others have goaded, encouraged, and cheered me on, including Patricia Tennison of Paris Café Writing, an extraordinary teacher. Along with the rest of my Paris scribe tribe, all beautiful writers, she inspires me to write better than I think I can.

What does literary success look like to you? 
Actually finishing and publishing a book. After that, writing beautiful prose as quickly and flawlessly as Leilani Barnett, author of Sacred Journaling: Ten Ways to Use the Power of Words to Craft Your Ideal Life.

Roxanne, do you have any tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others.  I’m also interested in how you have been managing your life and writing with COVID-19.
The biggest thing for me was to set aside time everyday to write and not to let anything interfere with that. I began doing this seriously in 2016 after attending a nonfiction seminar, Paris Café Writing, in Paris with Patricia Tennison, and now I generally spend 4 – 6 hours a day writing and marketing. 
Since I am retired, the main effect of COVID-19 is that I have more time to write. I do miss having friends and family come to visit, cooking and enjoying good wine together, and I get tired of Zooming, but it is a small price to pay for health.

Now the fun questions
If they made a movie about your life, what would the title be and who would play you? 
The Late, Late, Late, Very Late Bloomer. Goldie Hawn.

Do you have a special object like a piece of jewelry or keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you? 
My great-grandmother gave me a necklace her mother had given her. Made of pressed rose petals and acquired from a group of plains Indians in exchange for some medicine back in the mid 1800’s, it still smells faintly of roses.

What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme.
Mug: I dream my life is the same as it is now, only I have well-behaved hair and I live in Paris.

Your go to cookie.
Matt McCrae’s double chocolate sandwich cookies. Matt is the hottie lawman in Murder Unrehearsed. His favorite way to relax is to bake all day.

If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room for the rest of your life, what would it be? 
The Hallelejuah Chorus by Handel.

Favorite childhood book? 
Heidi

Last movie you saw? 
French Kiss

Roxanne, Thank you for joining us today. Heidi is in my top 10. Could you leave us with a little more about your book and if folks want to find out more about you and your work where they can go?

Murder Unrehearsed
by 
Roxanne Dunn

The pain of betrayal. The price of truth. The mystery of love. 

Matt stopped. His mouth hung open for a few beats. “What are you doing here?”
The darkest parts of me, those that I kept stuffed way down inside surged to the surface. My face burned with indignation. I was Kate the Shrew at her best. “How dare you! You and your pretty little Live Like King Tut fable. You kiss me and tell me you liked it. You say you are my biggest fan. You pretend to bare your soul. You think I can’t figure out what’s going on? All you want is for me to believe that you’re a good guy, so you can leave me hanging out for a pack of wolves. So I can end up as dead as Mariella. Well, damn you all to hell!”
Slick as spit, Matt reached out and took my hands. “It’s not like that.” 


​Where you can get a copy
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DHJ6TG7/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-unrehearsed-roxanne-dunn/1137387167?ean=2940162985846 
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/murder-unrehearsed 
https://seaportbooks.com/
https://www.thewildrosepress.com/books/murder-unrehearsed 
 www.roxannedunn.com

More about the author
I am a foodie and fanatic about good chocolate, a physical therapist (now retired), and a private pilot. I lived aboard a classic wood motor yacht for 17 years, and in my dreams, I'm a famous watercolor artist, a pianist of renown, and a globe trotting yogini. And, oh yes, an apartment in Paris would be nice.
How to contact Roxanne
www.roxannedunn.com
https://www.facebook.com/roxanne.dunn.127 
https://twitter.com/roxanne_dunn​

Thank you for stopping by. I know you will enjoy today's guest but before we light the fire, I have some exciting information about my own camping trips. Yes I said trips. We are scheduled for a few things in spring. Honesdale Pa, KOA is one of our go-to places where my grandkids join us. And as I type this I hear hubby on the phone scheduling a site in Lancaster, PA. May 30th is the first day of retirement for me. Huzzah! We head out to Tampa for a conference then a leisurely trip up the southeast coast stopping in each state. There's a map on 2HOOTs door and every time we drop the landing gear we get to fill in another state. One of my most anticipated stops will be Chincoteague in Virginia. One of my most treasured books from childhood are the Misty series. I'll be posting lots of pictures and sharing so much in my newsletter you won't want to miss it. So sign up here mailchi.mp/37b945511a50/dvstoneauthor and make sure you read to the end. I have a special offer.
Now without further ado, please help me welcome today's guest Gayle Irwin

Hi Gayle, and welcome to the fire. Seasons change and so do refreshments. What can I get for you? 2HOOTS is like Aladdin's lamp. Make a wish and it appears.
Pinot Noir, please.
​
I have a nice bottle from Sonoma County Cali right here. Tell us, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. 
As a child growing up in Iowa, camping was a family adventure. We started with a tent when I was four and graduated a few years later to an over-the-cab pickup camper. My husband and I have camped in a tent a few times, but now our outdoor adventures take place in our 12x35-foot cabin, which sets on 6 acres of land in a peaceful setting in the woods of Wyoming.

Ohhhh, I adore cabins in the woods. There's a couple of television shows I watch and Log Cabin Living is one of them. Of course some of those cabins are over the top, but then I glamp more than I camp. Tell us about your latest project and, what’s on the horizon?
Rhiann’s Rescue released in December, and although there is no camping that happens in the story, my primary female character travels to bring dogs into rescue or get them to their forever homes. The descriptions of my settings (eastern Washington/northern Idaho and southern Arizona) will hopefully inspire others to get their travel mojo revved up again as we head into springtime! Additionally, I’ll be releasing a new book, My Montana Love, next month, which takes place in western Montana – another beautiful place to visit (and camp, if you enjoy doing that!)  

Those places are certainly on my map to visit. I'm also a huge proponent of rescue. Hali, my latest rescue has been with us for two years now. Gayle Do you have a tagline? Life Motto? The tagline for my Pet Rescue Romance series is “Where romance and rescue meet.”

I love it! How long did it take you from conception to publication?
Last summer I envisioned writing a Christmas story as part of my Pet Rescue Romance series.  However, I wasn’t able to complete it and now that book is set for release in November of this year. I had started what I thought would be a short story as a prequel to the series – that became a novella (Rhiann’s Rescue) that spans from December through February. Rhiann’s Rescue took me about four months from idea to publication. I am indie published.

Our stories do take over sometimes, don't they? Are there any mentors, authors, or books you would like to give a shout-out to?
I’m enjoying several different authors right now who write in the contemporary, clean romance genre: Casey Peeler, who writes YA contemporary romance; Eliza Boyd, who has started a line like mine called the Animal Sanctuary series; Linda O. Johnston, who weaves mystery into her romance stories that feature pets (the Barkery and Biscuits series); and Annie Rains, whose Sweetwater Springs series includes covers featuring cute dogs!

Those sound great. I'll have to check them out. What does literary success look like to you?
I love the idea of writing for a living, including creating new books and upping the game of my freelance writing career. I want to travel more – I so enjoy visiting America’s national parks and wildlife refuges! – and I’d like to become a snowbird in the next five years. A successful writing career for me means freedom, and one day I hope that becomes my reality.

We could be twins with that. Those things are just like my hopes and dreams. Gayle, do you have any Life Hacks for Authors?
Last year I learned about a book promotion site called BookSweeps. I joined two promotion opportunities for romance writers and gained more than 500 people for my email list. I also joined All Authors, which promotes books and BookFunnel.com. Additionally, I’m a speaker with the March 2021 Women in Publishing Conference, a virtual writing and book marketing conference for women authors. I’m enjoying discovering new outlets to reach potential readers and help other authors. (Here's the link folks, it looks wonderful womeninpublishingsummit.com/ )

Now the fun questions 
What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme? A friend of mine gave me a coffee mug for Christmas a few years ago that says “Rescue Mom” and has pawprints on it. I use that mug often!

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? I visited Vancouver, British Columbia once and went to the aquarium. As I watched the beluga whales swim, one came over to me and seemed to look me in the eye. As I walked around the tank and enclosure, it followed and watched me. I felt a connection with that creature. I’d love to have a photo of that encounter; the memory remains in my heart.

Teach me something I don’t know in two sentences. Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters in the U.S. every year; about 3.2 million are adopted and many others (strays) are reunited with their owners. However, nearly 1.5 million dogs and cats are euthanized, therefore, we have a long way to go to eliminate the number of healthy, adoptable animals killed in America’s shelters.

Favorite childhood book? I enjoyed all the Little House books written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. My favorite though is Those Happy Golden Years.

What’s your go-to coffee order? Raspberry mocha!

Gayle, thank you so much for joining me around the fire today and sharing so much wonderful information about rescues and writing tips. Would you please leave us with some more about your book?

​

As homage to my childhood favorite, anyone who comments on either their own rescue companion or favorite childhood story, will be entered to win in a drawing for an Amazon gift certificate.  So comment away! And once more thank you for joining us at the Campfire.

Ugh, February. In case you didn't know we've had about three feet of snow this month. Now, I like a snowstorm. But it just keeps piling up. Pete had to rent a machine to take away the snow to make room for more. Oh, and I didn't mention the ice storm. Yep we had one of those tucked in there too. What's a girl to do? Well if you camp in a lot of different places you come to find out not all campgrounds have firepits. To me, it's not camping without a fire. So we bought a propane one. One day with snow in the background we broke it out. The pile of snow on top of the gazebo melted and created a shower but, I got my fire. Enjoy! ​

Love Overboard
by Rachelle Paige Campbell

Forced to share a stateroom with her ex-fiancé, Caitlyn fakes amnesia to stay on board her dream Alaskan cruise. Torn over deciding his future, Cruise Director Gregory tumbles into helping her. As they grow closer, unspoken secrets threaten to rip them apart, for good.

Purchase Links
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082S78G9V
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-overboard-rachelle-paige-campbell/1136008218https://books.apple.com/us/book/love-overboard/id1491983622
https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Rachelle_Paige_Campbell_Love_Overboard?id=RdrQDwAAQBAJ
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/love-overboard-5

A little more about Rachelle
Rachelle stumbled into the world of romance novels in college; as a way to help speed up her reading to make it through Art History textbooks. After years in the professional world writing very dry grant proposals and auction descriptions, she started writing the contemporary romance stories she wanted to read. Setting her books in some of her favorite destinations was her inspired way to require plenty of research trips every year with her family.
​https://rachellepaigecampbell.com/
eepurl.com/dEjzZz 
https://www.instagram.com/rachellepaigebooks/​

Welcome to today's campfire! I'm so glad you joined us. Before we get to today's campfire guest I'm excited to tell you I've booked my first trip of the up coming season. The day I retire in May, Pete and I are, Lord willing, heading south to the www.fwcwriters.com/ignite-your-imagination/ Then to celebrate the new stage in life taking our time heading up the east coast. We plan to drop the landing gear in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia (where we'll be near Chincoteague. The Misty books are from there.) Delaware, and then home. I'll keep you posted with any developments and a photo journal. Now let's light this fire and greet my guest.

Hi, Julie, welcome to my campfire. I'm so glad you could join me today though it's pretty cold out. What can I offer you?  The camper is like a shooting star with refreshments. You wish it, you get it. 
Dark, strong coffee at 5:45 a.m., light cream. I like to be fully awake and at my writing desk by the time the sun rises.
Oh, your one of those morning people. Well I roll out of bed anywhere between seven and eight, even at camp. Which by the way have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. If you’re not the camping type. Tell us about your favorite adventure or vacation. What made it special to you?
My favorite vacation (this sounds like a school essay) was a trip to the Cinque Terre region of Italy. There’s a narrow trail high above the sea that connects five villages that I hiked with my daughter several years ago. We stayed in one village, took a train to the farthest point in the trail and hiked back. The views were stunning (!) and it was so much fun saying hello to people from all over the world in different languages. No matter where people were from, everyone had a huge smile on their face.

Well then, ciao, oh and yI'el. (Who knows what language that is?) It sounds lovely. I would love to visit Italy one day. Problem is getting 2HOOTS across the pond.  Tell us about your latest project and what’s on the horizon.
Spirit in Time, which released this week, is the third in my Spirited Quest mystery series. The main character is a ghost hunter, and in this book she is kidnapped back in time to 1872 by a mysterious spirit.

A ghost story with time travel! It sounds wonderful. Do you have a Life Motto?
If you get knocked down, get up and fight a little harder.

Yep, that's a good one. We can't let circumstances rule our life without kicking back. And your motto speaks to an author trait, perseverance, and lead to my next question. How long did it take you from conception to publication? How did you do it so quickly, or what circumstances drew the process out.
Each book takes about a year and half from conception to publication. The writing part takes a little under a year and the rest is editing and publishing details (that magic a publisher does behind the scenes). I write nearly every day, at least for an hour and often for several hours, so the chapters stack up quickly.

Julie, what does literary success look like to you? I love this question. It’s different for everyone.
This is such a difficult question because the answer changes over time. At first, my goal was simply to finish a manuscript I was proud of. Then, it was to get published, and next to see it read. Spirit in Time is my seventh novel, and the third in a series, and I get the most enjoyment when I see people read all the books in the series; this means, they like the characters and my writing. I feel I’ve done my job well.

Do you have any tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others. I’m also interested in how you have been managing your life and writing with COVID-19.
There’s a silver lining in most difficult situations and I suppose the upside to Covid is it keeps me focused on my writing. Covid, of course, is distracting but if I’m limited in many other things, like shopping or traveling or getting together with friends, then I may as well work on my next book. I’m always surprised how much I can get done if I take the first step, which is sitting down in front of my laptop.
 
Now the fun questions 
Do you have a special object like a piece of jewelry or keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you? I have an azure blue Swarovski crystal pendant that is a lucky charm for me. I had it on when one of my books was accepted by my publisher and it continues to bring me good fortune.

What is your favorite T-shirt? It’s a T-shirt that says: Every Word Matters.

What’s your favorite candy, cookie, pasta? Oh, molten lava chocolate cake or mudslide cake. The key is the chocolate.

Favorite childhood book? Grimm’s Fairy Tales – the real one, where the stories are pretty dark. I checked this out from the library over and over again when I was a child. I loved that not all stories had happy endings.

Last movie you saw? The last movie I watched in the theater was the remake of The Lion King (loved it). The last movie I watched at home was Testament of Youth, a true story set during WWI.

If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? A four-course meal inside a fine restaurant with friends. I haven’t been in a restaurant in nearly a year because of Covid. I’d dine slowly, enjoying some good wine along the way. I don’t really care what I eat – it’s the experience I crave.

Last thing you googled? Why?
I looked up how to train a race horse for my work-in-progress. This next book, The Three Widows of Wylder, is a historical fiction/women’s fiction story about three women who each are running from their past. Their stories collide and their lies are exposed. I hope to have this book completed in late spring.

Julie, thank you so much for being my guest at the fire. Before you go will you leave us a tease about  about Spirit In Time and where we can find out more about you?

Time is not on her side.
Time travel isn't real. It can't be real. But ghost-blogger Jillian Winchester discovers otherwise when an enigmatic spirit conveys her to 1872 to do his bidding.
Jillian finds herself employed as a maid in Sacramento, in an elegant mansion with a famous painting. The artwork reveals another mystery: Why does the man within look exactly like her boyfriend, Mason Chandler?
Morality and sin live side by side, not only in the picture, but also within her. As her transgressions escalate, she races the clock to find the man in the painting, and hunt down a spirit with a disconcerting gift.
But will time be her friend or foe?
 
 A peek inside 
“Are you a ghost?” A young girl stood where the guard had been only minutes before. She spoke matter- of-factly, her dark eyes alive with curiosity.
The house was still whole, she was alive, and the world hadn’t ended. Jillian scanned the room for damage, then blinked. This must be a dream. The long dining table—bare just moments ago—was now laid for a meal. Glasses sat upright, forks and spoons lined up in perfect order, and a tall flower arrangement appeared unscathed. A crystal chandelier above the table remained perfectly still.
The guard and Asian man were nowhere in sight.
The girl, dressed neatly in a calf-length white pinafore embellished with pink ribbons, didn’t appear rattled by the cataclysmic jolt.
“What happened?” Jillian asked, still crouched on her knees. “Are you okay?”
“You don’t belong here. Mother will be angry.”
Even though the floor had ceased to shake, the roiling continued in her head. Might this very real looking girl be a spirit? Most apparitions wavered in some manner, their appearances paler and less there than the tangible world around them. This child appeared solid in every way, from the tips of her shiny chestnut hair to the toes of her lace-up black shoes.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2LslC9S 
iBooks: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/isbn9781509235100 
Barnes and Noble: https://bit.ly/3qaFAF5

More about Julie
Julie Howard is the author of the Wild Crime series, and Spirited Quest. She is a former journalist and editor who has covered topics ranging from crime to cowboy poetry. She is a member of the Idaho Writers Guild, editor of the Potato Soup Journal, and founder of the Boise chapter of Shut Up & Write. Learn more at juliemhoward.com.
Website: http://juliemhoward.com 
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/juliemhowardauthor 
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18116047.Julie_Howard 
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Julie-Howard/e/B07D6CS4NQ/ 
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/julie-howard?list=author_books 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_JulieMHoward 
Follow her on Instagram: @authorjuliehoward

Welcome to my campfire. The first Saturday of every month I save for myself unless I get a special request. So guess what? No requests just little old me. I love sitting around a fire whether at camp, at the fireplace, or virtually. Well we are both virtual and I'm in front of my fake fireplace at home.

Here's a bit of an author update.
Next month will be Rock House Grills book birthday. Can you believe it? My they grow up so fast. I'll be celebrating the first 2 weeks of April by having a sale as well as visiting many other book blogger sights. About two a day. 😮 If you join my first of the month email blast you'll get a list of all the sights and the link to the sale below. There you'll find out more about me and upcoming events, book reviews, what on my TBR (to be read) pile and more.

Saturday, March 20th is the first day of Spring. Huzzah! And I've already begun planning our camping trips. So far the first will be one of our local favorites. Honesdale PA KOA. We'll spend some time with my son, daughter-in-law, and especially the GRANDS! 2HOOTS, Hali, and I are itching to go-go-go. I think Pete is too, but he's trying to play it cool. Then in early May, we hope to get our Lancaster PA trip in. And for the big one... I retire on May 30th. It's my birthday and the first day of retirement. The camper will be heading south to Florida for the https://www.fwcwriters.com/ignite-your-imagination/ I'm so excited for not only the conference but we'll be taking our time coming home to New Jersey and putting a lot of stickers on our map for the U.S. 
Have you ever thought about being part of a street team or beta reader? What is that, you ask. Let me break it down. 
1st Street Team
A street team is a group of fans who come together to support a specific author. You would be part of a special group of people who would enjoy sharing about me on social media. I have a Facebook group where you would receive a private invite. As part of the street team, you would get insider information. Peeks into current works in process. 
Beta Readers
If you enjoy my writing why not be one. Beta readers get advanced copies of my work in process. You read it and tell me what you like and don't like. Maybe you don't understand something because of a plot hole. This is not editing. Of course, if there is a glaring error certainly let me know but otherwise, you'll only answer a few questions. 

If either of these appeals to you, please shoot me an email. I'd love to connect and there will be bonuses to becoming one to my teammates. Last month's giveaway had several folks winning.

I hope you enjoyed today Campfire Blog. Leave me a comment on your favorite camping trip or memorable vacation. Tell us what made it special to you. I pick the best story and send the reader an Amazon gift certificate. 

Hi Shirley! Thanks for joining us around the campfire on this cold morning. It's 14 degrees in Northern NJ and we are expecting a major Nor'easter late tomorrow and maybe into Tuesday. 🥶 So hunker down with a nice hot beverage and join in on the conversation. What’s your preference, coffee, tea, cocoa, wine? The camp fridge is like the Starship Enterprise. You speak it, you get it. 
Well, since it’s after five at the campfire, I’d love a glass of wine. Anything red. Zinfandel is my favorite, especially since the fridge is like Mary Poppins’ carpetbag. Have you got my favorite wine, Zinforomantica? It’s Italian. 

Well you know it's 5 O'clock somewhere, right and sì, naturalmente. One glass coming up. I too enjoy a nice red wine, unfortunately some days it doesn't agree with me. Now, you've visited before. Tell us, about a camping memory or adventure. What made it special to you?
I was a Girl Scout, even at thirteen, way past when other girls gave it up. My best friend and I went camping with our Scout leader, Mrs. Manz, her real name. Who could make that name up anyway? Once we got to the camp site, we dug latrines and built the fire pit. I know how to boil water in a paper cup. Who knows? It may still come in handy one day.

Ugh, I remember roughing it when I was young. One time it was a semi rough with my friend Linda. There was an old abandoned camper in the woods of Minnesota. On a snowy, ten degree night we thought it would be a good night to stay there. We stayed up half the night drinking Dr. Pepper and shivering. Fast forward to 2021 and you have some exciting news to share with us. 
My new book, Eat Your Heart Out, just got the new cover you see here. It’s a little difficult to make out the details since the sun is setting on our campsite, but you can see the guy is a cutie. My characters are fifty and they’re both dating. Not each other. “We’re older, not senile,” Dana says. Dana and Alex, the two main characters, are foodies and do a bit of sautéing and bantering, along with tiptoeing around each other. 

I adore books with older and experience characters. Add a bit of wining and dining and I'm hooked. Do you have a tagline? Life Motto? If you have both, let us have them.
Never give up. Seriously. It’s on my coffee mug. 

As an author, that has to be ingrained in us. Perseverance and thick skin are in our DNA. So, speaking of never giving up, how long did it take you from conception to publication? 
I am not a fast writer. I’ve written five books, two of them when I still worked full time. (Three are waiting patiently for rewrites.) It took me years to grab the courage to pursue a publisher and get the first, Middle Ageish, published. Although marketing is so time-consuming (Dear Readers, did you know that?) I write every day and if it’s not my book, it’s a blog post or book review.

I testify to that on the marketing. I'm not a fast writer either. Are there any mentors, authors, or books. 
I’d have to say the group of authors I work with and exchange ideas with at Wild Rose Press deserve a round of applause. They are so supportive and I learn something new every day. D.V. Stone, thanks so much for having me here at the campfire. I’ve been wanting to join you for a while now. Oh, I brought all the making for S’mores. (Shirley reaches into her bag.) Zinfandel and S’mores, what a great combination.

You are very welcome! I love talking to other writers about the craft and sharing them with my readers. I'm looking forward to reading this book. If anyone hasn't read Middle Ageish I highly recommend it. And don't be so slow with those s'mores. (D. V. does gimme hands). While these marshmallows are toasting can you tell us about what literary success look like to you? I love this question, because it's different for everyone.
Success means readers. I want readers who laugh along with my characters and can’t wait to ask questions about them. Ask me if the dating stories are true, was my boss that awful, and where did I get the concept of the buttered noodle syndrome. Hint: It’s in Eat Your Heart Out. 

You heard her, grab Shirley's books and enjoy a good laugh. I did. Do you have any Life Hacks for Authors. Tips, tricks, or anything you specialize in that you would share with others. I’m also interested in how you have been managing your life and writing with COVID-19.
Writing has saved me during Covid times. There is no other way to say it. Writing is keeping me sane. I live alone, so I’m not a stranger to hermit-like habits. Lucky for me I live in Florida. Tough in the summer, though, but all summer long I got up and out early to get in my morning walk. That helped me a lot. It’s all in your head.
A tip for writing is always bounce your writing off others. My writing group is essential to my writerly well-being. Before publication, I rely on the help of friends and my writing group to proofread. My sister is very patient when I talk about my characters as if they’re roomies. 

Thank you for sharing that. I kind of takes a village, right? Now the fun questions. If they made a movie about your life, what would the title be and who would play you?
My Life as a Date. It would star Goldie Hawn. I have no idea what she looks like these days, so I’m taking a leap of faith.
 
What is your favorite mug or teacup?  
My Never Give Up mug. 

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?
I used to live in Crete, Greece. My Kodak Moment would be all the times shared with my mom when she visited, and my friends and their kids at the beach. The best things in life are free. We used to say that out loud to remind ourselves how lucky we were swimming in the Med. 

Favorite childhood book?
Madeline and Curious George

If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Full-fat deep dark chocolate ice cream with nuts and hot fudge.

What was the last thing you Googled?
Last thing I Googled was the spelling of Madeline, the girl who walked with the others in one straight line. 

Shirley you are such a fun guest. Thank you for joining us today and letting us have a peek into your life. Now I have to go wash all this stickiness off my hands. I would love for you to leave us little more about you, your life and especially your new book cover. And readers out there, don't be afraid to ask any questions of Shirley. If you are intrigued enough about this lovely lady, here are her social media links.


Shirley’s Socials 
WEBSITE:  
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54758920-middle-ageish
BOOKBUB  https://www.bookbub.com/profile/3531427862
https://www.facebook.com/midagedating
https://twitter.com/mylifeasadate
https://www.instagram.com/shirleygoldbergauthor/

​Note from D. V.
Eat Your Heart Out doesn't have a release date yet but soon, very soon. So keep your eyes peeled and I'll let you know when it does. In the mean time, head over to https://midagedating.com/  and check out her other books.