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 Who: Hello, I’m Caroline Clemmons, bestselling and award winning author of historical and contemporary romances. Interests: When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my husband and daughters, reading friends’ books, lunching with friends, browsing antique malls, checking Facebook, delving into genealogy, and taking the occasional nap. Network: Join me and other readers at Caroline’s Cuties, a Facebook readers group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/277082053015947/ for special excerpts, exchanging ideas, contests, giveaways, recipes, and talking to like-minded people about books and other fun things. Desk: I write in my cluttered office using a desktop PC surrounded by reference books and friends’ books. After my friend Jacquie Rogers told me about her computer monitor, I copied her and use a TV as a monitor—so much easier to read. I love reading on my Kindle, but I enjoy owning print books if I think I’ll be using them frequently. My computer station and desk are faux dark cherry—doesn’t that sound much nicer than fake? Outrageous: I’m not a very outrageous person. One thing my husband (I call him Hero) thinks is outrageous is that I like to write between ten in the evening and three am. That seems to be my most productive time. I’m trying to train myself to write during normal working hours. We’ll see how that goes. Window: A window in the top half of door to the patio is at my back. When our home was robbed, the criminals kicked in that door. Since then, we’ve put up a fence, as suggested by the police. I face a pink wall but it’s not plain. Several lovely prints and memorabilia decorate the walls. I collect nativity sets, religious symbols, angels, and a particular type of ceramic figures. Some of these are in a glass-front cabinet mounted on one wall.  So, I have a new release which I’d like to share. DESPERATE IN DELAWARE is part of the Yours Truly: The Lovelorn Series and is a sweet western historical romance. Only the first chapter is set in Delaware. The rest takes place in Palo Pinto County, Texas. Mina Faye Stapleton is desperate. She wants a husband and children but there are no eligible men where she lives. Instead, she lives with her sister and brother-in-law and their four children in her childhood home. Here’s the blurb:
I will wait no longer! Since my parents’ death I’ve been living with my sister’s family. I help care for her home and her adorable children. But, when will I have my own husband and children? There is not even one eligible man near my age in our small town. I hear the snickers and hurtful remarks--old maid, spinster, on the shelf. My cousin sent me a newspaper clipping from a Yours Truly: The Lovelorn’s column. Imagine my surprise when the letter to the columnist read as if I had written it. I’ll do it—I’ll follow the Lovelorn’s advice and change my location. I’ll go to Texas to visit my cousin. I refuse to watch my life disappear until I’m left with only regrets! The Universal Amazon Link is https://mybook.to/Mina Here’s an excerpt: After a harrowing ride, they arrived at Palo Pinto. When the stage stopped, she waited until the other passengers stepped out before she climbed down. There was Cindy to greet her. The tall man with Cindy must be her husband, Bert Kennedy. Cindy ran forward and hugged her. “I’m so glad you’re here. I know you’re exhausted but I promise you’ll be glad you’ve come.” Mina laughed with pleasure at seeing her cousin once more. “I hope so because I’ll never ride that stage again. Well, not for a while anyway.” She stood on tiptoe to accept Bert’s kiss to her cheek. “I’m happy to finally meet you.” He grinned at her. “We left the twins with our housekeeper so we’d better load your trunks and get home before she gives notice.” Bert called to a tall man standing nearby. “Austin, make yourself useful and give me a hand with this luggage.” The man, who wasn’t bad looking, gave her a long scan from head to toe and back up then stared from the pile of luggage back to her. “You plan on opening a store or did you just bring everything you ever owned?” She started to give him the sharp side of her tongue but Cindy interrupted. “Miss Mina Faye Stapleton, this is our good friend, Austin Wright. Austin, Mina is my favorite cousin and she’s moving to Palo Pinto.” Mina’s pique evaporated. She laughed and nudged Cindy. “Are you still stealing my line? I’m the one who only has one cousin while you have two.” She sobered and glared at the rude man. “How do you do, Mr. Wright?” “I do fine, Miss Stapleton. Good thing I’m here. Bert could have killed himself if he’d tried to load these trunks alone.” As if the man hadn’t left Mina aghast with his latest rudeness, Cindy linked arms with Mina’s. “Let’s leave them to their job and walk to the house. It’s only a short way.” Thanks for sharing the blog with me. Here’s my official biography: Through a crazy twist of fate, Caroline Clemmons was not born on a Texas ranch. To compensate for this illogical error, she writes about handsome cowboys, feisty ranch women, and scheming villains in a tiny office her family calls her pink cave. She and her Hero live in North Central Texas cowboy country where they ride herd on their two rescued indoor cats and dog as well as providing nourishment outdoors for squirrels, birds, and other critters. The sixty titles she’s created have made her a bestselling author and won awards. She writes sweet to sensual romances about the West, both historical and contemporary as well as time travel and mystery. Her series include the Kincaids, McClintocks, Stone Mountain Texas, Bride Brigade, Texas Time Travel, Texas Caprock Tales, Pearson Grove, and Loving A Rancher as well as numerous single titles and contributions to multi-author sets and series. To stay up-to-date with releases and contests, subscribe to my newsletter here and receive a FREE novella of HAPPY IS THE BRIDE, a humorous historical wedding disaster that ends happily—but you knew it would, didn’t you? Find me on my blog, website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest. Amazon Author Page BookBub.
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 Who – Hi, my name is Kim McMahill. I write adventure fiction, thrillers, and romantic suspense. My most recent endeavor is the Risky Research Series, a romantic suspense series centered around a deadly organization out to control the diet, nutrition, and pharmaceutical industries at all costs and the FBI agent who will stop at nothing to bring them to justice. Interests - when not writing, I enjoy gardening, traveling and camping in my van with my husband, hiking, reading, jigsaw puzzles, and spending time with family. Network –I am a member of Wyoming Writers, Inc. I also have a wonderful network of fellow writers that I met through my previous publisher. After that publisher was bought out by my current publisher, Pelican Book Group, we have stayed together and have continued to encourage each other, even those who moved on to new publishers or self-publishing ventures. Desk -My workspace is always tidy and organized. I don’t want to waste time digging for something and risk losing focus. Within reach, I keep a small library of my favorite writer’s reference books and an English-Spanish dictionary. Outdoors – I’m not a huge winter fan because I hate being cooped up in the house and Wyoming can be cold. However, in the spring, summer, and fall I love being outside whether it’s to work in my garden, hike, camp, or just explore. Window – Outside my second-story window I can see several mountains, including Heart Mountain, an iconic landmark framing Cody, Wyoming. I love this time of year when lawns are green, trees are full, and flowers decorate yards in the neighborhood.  A Foundation of Fear
FBI Special Agent Devyn Nash is obsessed with taking down Coterie, a deadly group out to control the multi-billion-dollar diet product industry. The FBI’s plan to expose Coterie places Devyn’s best friend and her partner’s fiancé in the crosshairs of this ruthless organization. Can Devyn protect her friend and bring the coldblooded killers to justice before they strike again while distracted by injury, a sexist bully, and a long-distance relationship with a handsome Wyoming sheriff? Lobbyist and Coterie assassin Sofia Wilks wants nothing more than to regain control of her life. Sofia knows Agent Nash is nipping at her heels, but the FBI agent isn’t the worst of her fears. She is drawn to a man who has the power to destroy her. Links Risky Research Series YouTube Trailer: https://youtu.be/clZIRJ1s-Fo Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Foundation-Fear-Risky-Research-Book-ebook/dp/B07PVL4391/ Barnes and Noble Buy Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1131000069?ean=9781522398547 Apple Books: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-foundation-of-fear/id1457767041 Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-foundation-of-fear Social Media Links Blog: http://www.kimmcmahill.blogspot.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimmcmahill @kimmcmahill Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/KimMcMahillAuthor/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimmcmahill/  But before we do, here's a quick reminder. My latest book, Rainbow Sprinkles releases today. Huzzah! If you're around this evening at 7-9 p.m. eastern, head over to the festivities at bit.ly/2A6l2sY_ReleaseParty I'd love to see you there. Now without further eruption here's today's guest.  Who - Hi, I’m Judythe Morgan. Yes, the spelling is correct. I know it looks like Judy-the, but it’s pronounced Judith. I’m not sure what my mother was thinking to give me such a unique spelling. Sometimes even Amazon searches can’t find me. I’m a multi-genre author of award-winning fiction. I have two standalone titles, one four book series-Promises, and currently have two books out in the Fitzpatrick Family series. Book three is due out in the fall of 2020 and book four, followed by the final book five, in 2021. Interests - Gardening. Reading. Taking walks with my Old English Sheepdog Finnegan and Maltese Buster. Swimming. Working jigsaw puzzles. And, most important, writing the next story. Network – I’m a member of ACFW, RWA, NWHRWA Chapter, and several FB writers’ groups. Desk – After a hip injury made navigating the stairs to my office difficult, I moved my work area to the downstairs dining room. With all the social distancing/stay inside going on with the Coronavirus, we weren’t using the room much anyway. I love the new location! Except, it’s a little too close to the pantry treats, and all that tabletop space gives more room to spread out. My stacks of stuff have multiplied. But it’s okay I read a quote once that a messy desk is the sign of a creative mind. Outrageous – This is not necessarily outrageous. It is a bit OCD or ODD, as my hubby says. Our dinnerware is the Blue Willow pattern. If you’re not familiar with the pattern, the design depicts an Oriental love story with a pair of birds above the couple. I always twist the plate until those birds are at the top before I begin to eat. Window – My window view from the dining room is the same as it was from my upstairs office, only several feet lower. I now see the Satsuma orange trees over the top of my red Texas Star hibiscus blooms. And, since the window faces our driveway, I have a view of visitors without having to stand up.  In the furor of the 60's, when women were fighting for their rights and men the Viet Cong, a young Tennessee preacher’s daughter seeks personal liberation. Lily finds instead a love that changes her definition of freedom and liberation.
Green Beret Major Alex Cabot meets Lily Reed, a Department of Army civilian at Eighth Army Headquarters in South Korea. He's a high-potential career officer, who should resist the temptation of any woman, but he can’t ignore Lily. In an uncertain time, in a temporary safe zone, yielding to temptation changes both their lives forever. Book 1 of the Promises Series Love in the Morning Calm introduces Lily Reed, Major Alex Cabot, and Captain David Sands. The Promises Series chronicles their lives from the 1960s through the decades that follow. Each book is a standalone story. Book Buy Links: Kindle: http://amzn.to/186U8IG Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-in-the-morning-calm-judythe-morgan/1129916270?ean=2940016714479 Paperback: Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Love-In-The-Morning-Calm/dp/0989403629/ Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/10MYQJC Connect with Judythe: Website https://judythemorgan.com/ Blog https://judythewriter.com/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Judythe2 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JudytheMorgan/ Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6450879.Judythe_Morgan BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/judythe-morgan Amazon Author Page https://amazon.com/author/judythemorgan Sign up for my newsletter at https://judythemorgan.com/contact/  Who: Hi! I’m Meredith Bond. I write Regency and Fantasy romance. I’m currently a self-published author (I started my career with Kensington Publishers publishing in their Zebra Regency line) with 28 works of fiction and nonfiction published. I’ve got three historical fantasy series which all take place in the same world—the world of the Vallen (a magical people who originally come from the Isle of Avalon): The Children of Avalon (medieval/post-Arthurian), the Falling series (currently two time-travel books: contemporary/medieval and another which will be published in an anthology on July 15th), and the Storm series (Regency-set fantasy). I’ve also got two Regency romance series: The Merry Men Series and my newest series, The Ladies’ Wagering Whist Series. I’m also a book coach and formatter for indie-authors. I’ve been teaching writing online and in person for over ten years. Interests: I’m a knitter and reader of everything (mystery, literature, romance, historical literature, and fantasy mostly). And there’s nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than going for walks in the woods with my dog, Duchess. Network: I’m a member of the RWA and am active in the Beau Monde Chapter, and the Washington Romance Writers Chapter. I’m also an active participant in two local writing meetups, the Brussels Writer’s Meetup, and I host the local Shut Up & Write meetup. Desk: I usually work in one of three places. I’ve got an office with an extra-large monitor where I do my formatting work, I sit in my living room on my comfy sofa when I’m writing or editing someone else’s work, and I like to go out to local cafes to work both alone and with others (or, at least, I did before the pandemic started, and hopefully, I will do so again soon!). Outrageous: I don’t think I do anything outrageous! I love to travel and have done a lot. I’ve traveled throughout Europe and to a lot of places in Asia (India, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, & China). I speak a couple of languages: English (naturally), Bengali (fluently—it’s my husband’s native language), some French, a touch of Spanish, and I’m currently learning Russian. Window: I currently live in Brussels, Belgium, on the 8th floor of my apartment building so when I look out my window I see a beautiful skyline of red tile roofs and church steeples. There are, also, unfortunately, a number of cranes currently filling my skyline because of buildings being constructed nearby. As I’m soon going to be moving back to the U.S. for a time until my husband and I can move to his next posting in Kyiv, Ukraine, I’m going to miss my very European view. On the other hand, I can’t wait to see what sort of view I’ll get in Kyiv! Thanks for allowing me to join you here! It’s been fun!!  A Trick of Mirrors The Ladies’ Wagering Whist Society Book 4 (All books in the series can be read as a stand-alone.) Can the Ladies of the Wagering Whist Society help sort out a love quadrangle? It’s not that the practical Beatrice Kendrick doesn’t trust her mirror twin, the vivacious and flirtatious Isabel. It’s just that the rebellious Bel has proven herself all too capable of welcoming the attentions of the wrong sort of man. So to keep Bel from getting into trouble, Bee secretly accompanies her when she makes her debut in Regency London. Can Bee shield her own heart while trying to protect her sister? And can Bel ensure that her quiet sister gets a taste of the joys of London society – and a chance at romance? When the broodingly romantic Edward Conway, nursing a broken heart, meets musically inclined Bel Kendrick, she stirs a passion in him he wasn’t sure he could ever feel again after the death of his Italian lover. The strappingly handsome Paul St. Vincent, too, meets the thoughtful and clever woman he thinks is Bel, and she seems to be just the sort of intellectually-minded woman he’s looking for. Only sometimes Edward senses that Bel doesn’t always remember what they’d discussed the last time they met. And at times she is entirely too giggly for Paul’s taste. Both men, however, have decided that Miss Kendrick is the right woman for him. What they don’t realize is that they’re both right. But it will take a little sleight of hand by the ladies of the Wagering Whist Society to untangle this trick of mirrors. Links: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084VSXGV5 Books2Read: books2read.com/u/4AzO5d  What's happening? Today is Monday June 29th. There's so much happening personally, professionally, creatively, and emotionally. Did I get enough ly words in for you haters of adverbs? Well as I've said before, my house my rules and my only editor today is me. Personally, my dear husband is retiring. Tomorrow is his last day. This is a big life changing event for both of us. I don't retire until next year. Exactly eleven months, one day, and a couple of hours. Not that I'm counting. Oh yes I am. I even have a countdown timer in my phone. Every morning when my peepers open up, I grab the cell and swipe open the app. Tomorrow is also my dear son's birthday. He's my one and only child though a grown man with three of his own. In my work life, I'm still adjusting to almost three months of furlough or as I call it, Practice Retirement. Things are quite different than prior to March 18th. I now spend half of my day in the phone room making appointments for the medical office I work in. Anybody who knows me, knows telephones are the bane of my existence. I'm hearing impaired. Totally deaf in my left ear from a case of childhood mumps. So by the end of my hours there my poor right ear is throbbing. After that I head to a second office and I'm ensconced masked behind a glass wall. That hearing problem I have? Yep, can't read lips and speech is muffled from all the face coverings. But adapt and overcome is my motto. New on the horizon for the next couple of weeks is a multitude of Blog visits and appearances before, during and after the release of Rainbow Sprinkles on July 8th. I'm making lists and getting ready for a responsible, social distanced release day party. I missed being able to have one for Rock House Grill back in April, so I'm combining the two with a limited amount of people at my home and including 2HOOTS my 5th Wheel. I do host a blog called Welcome to the Campfire and thought putting it all together would be cool. Also we can be outside as well. Interested in joining us? We'll be live on Facebook from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Here's the link bit.ly/2A6l2sY_ReleaseParty There will be prizes and games and music and cake and I'm even going to make Salted Caramel Sundaes with Pink Whipped Cream and Rainbow Sprinkles. (remember I said "no editors were involved in this blog). Demiurgic is a fancy word for creativity. I do have some rules and needed the D. D is also for Dragon. I'm fascinated by them. From Smaug, to Saphira to Toothless, if it had a dragon I'm in. Agent Sam Carter is returning and The Mystery of High Point Tower is nearing completion. This is a mid-grade paranormal that follows the antics of Agent Carter, Sheriff Holly, Uncle Martin and Dee. Also Jazz House is more than half-way through the first draft. Did you know second books are pretty tough to write? Overwrought is my take on emotionally. At times I can be overwhelmed. COVID-19 is still a reality we have to deal with. My husbands father recently passed away. My own health issues. Even Pete's retirement and the life changes it will bring. Add to it a full-time job outside the house and writing, marketing and blogging. The world seems to be falling apart and I've distanced myself from the news. At times everything can be overwhelming. But this I know. With faith, friends and family, this too will pass. Will things ever be the same? Are they ever? Some things need to change. As a country and as a world. Remember weather you are an evolutionist or a creationist we all come from the fertile crescent and common ancestors. When I jokingly call someone cousin, actually it's true. We all bleed red. Where do we go from here dear? Well, for me in about 45 minutes I'll be heading to work. I'll deal with the issues I face. I'll chat with people. I'll help others. I'll write some more tonight. And tomorrow? Hopefully, tomorrow will come and I'll get up and open my eyes. I'll look at my retirement calendar. I'll have my coffee. Get dressed. I'll write. Maybe I'll laugh. Maybe I'll cry. I'll listen to good music. Maybe even dance. But mostly I'll be thankful for another day. I'll be thankful for the people in it. I'll be thankful for opportunities to live the life I've worked towards. So, what about you? Let me know how you're doing. Do you need a prayer? Need a note of encouragement? How about an affirmation? Drop me a comment or a note to d.v.stone.wordsmith@gmail.com . I'd be happy to hear from you. Here's my prayer for you today. Don't worry if you don't believe, I do. Don't be offended, I'm not. Take the verse in the spirit to which it is intended, my care for you. To him who by means of his power working in us is able to do so much more than we can ever ask for, or even think of: to God be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever! Amen.  Before we Peek in Rosalie's window, be advised she is out of town on a secret mission. There may or not be cell or internet service. If you have a question or comment, be sure that after she's done saving the world in her superhero persona, she'll be happy to reply.  Who Hi, Rosalie Redd here! I write paranormal romance with alpha heroes and the women who tame them. My latest release is Love Bewitched, book 3 in the Gargoyle Night Guardians series featuring a love triangle between a witch, a gargoyle, and a fae. Who will she pick? Interests My favorite activity is hiking and searching for waterfalls. I'm a waterfall collector, with my camera of course! Network I'm a member of Romance Writers of America. Desk My desk is one of those sit-stand types and is often cluttered with post-it notes that magically populate at the foot of my bed at night with great plot ideas for stories. Buried in their midst is my dog-earned Emotion Thesaurus. I don’t know what I’d do without it! Outrageous I’ve been known to break out into song in the office when people least expect it. Window, I can see my neighbors perfectly manicured yard. Hands down it’s the best in the neighborhood. I can’t compete, but at least I’m lucky enough to admire it every day!  A love triangle romance that will surprise you.
Wynne’s had enough of tall, dark, brooding males that aren’t interested in her kind of love—the “until death do us part” kind. Attracted to unattainable men, she’s in uncharted territory when not just one, but two males show an interest in her. One’s a gargoyle with muscles of steel and a deep, sensuous voice to match. The other, a dark, seductive fae with a smirk that can melt panties. The problem? The men are on opposites sides of a war. Caught between the two, who will she choose? Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085LS5821 Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B085LS5821 Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B085LS5821 Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B085LS5821 WHO I’m Charlotte O’Shay. I write fast paced romance specializing in feisty heroines who can’t help falling for protective, slightly tortured alpha heroes. I usually write steamy, contemporary stories but I’ve ventured into suspense with my Indie story, MY ONLY ONE and sweet, historical with my upcoming novella ALWAYS, ALMOND FUDGE. INTERESTS I breathe to read and write. It’s the best job in the world and if I could do it 24/7, I would. I love to refinish/repaint and repurpose found furniture. Occasionally you’ll find me searching out carnival glass at a tag sale or exploring an old historical inn. Extra points if it’s near the beach. I enjoy finding new creatives whether farmers, painters, gardeners, photographers, or other writers. I’m inspired when I’ve been lucky enough to travel. Lately, my interests include planning safe get-togethers with my ever expanding family. NETWORK I’m published by the Wild Rose Press and I’ve loved getting to know the talented authors there but I’m not a joiner. I guess that’s the introvert in me. My network is my family, close friends, romance readers and writers I’ve met via my newsletter as well as fellow authors and readers I meet on social media. Even though I’m an introvert, I enjoy small in-person groups. I miss the energy of gatherings for writers like conferences, fairs, book cons. DESK Post-it heaven. Ice water and if it’s the morning, hot coffee in an insulated container. Unfortunately, also piled high with non-writer/real world stuff. I know where everything is. I’m not fearful of paper or files which is probably the lawyer in me. Framed photos, lucky stones I rub when words elude me. Notebooks with story ideas, edits and marketing info go into my author basket and a bookshelf of favorite books including writing craft books on the bookshelf to my right. OUTRAGEOUS I’m outrageously good at listening and observing. WINDOW In the city, all of our windows look out onto other buildings. I don’t look out the window as I write anyway, even if I’m at our home in the country. If I’m in, I’m inside my head. If I need a break or inspiration, I take a walk, preferably near the water. 
Their No-Strings Affair is on sale at Amazon Honey packs everything she owns and heads to NYC to jumpstart her art career. Her cheating boyfriend is history, and she finally acknowledges the truth of her mother's mantra: Careers are forever and happily ever after isn't in their DNA. All she needs is a job and a place to live. What she doesn't need is a taciturn, sexy, ballbuster but she's woman enough to know the difference between need and want. Isn't she? Jake's childhood was marred by tragedy and his future hijacked to a promise born of guilt. His failure drove him to a career as a SEAL and a security expert. But it's not enough. Now he'll give up his freedom in reparation for the life he lost. Honey may be the last sweet stop on the road to a joyless future. If it's what they both want, where's the harm in a no-strings affair? Author Charlotte O’Shay was born in New York City into big family and then married into another big family. Negotiating skills honed at the dinner table led her to a career in the law. But after four beautiful children joined the crowded family tree, Charlotte traded her legal career to write about happily ever afters in the City of Dreams. Charlotte loves to challenge her heroines and heroes with a crisis and watch them figure out who they are while they fall in love. Social Media Links: WEBSITE FACEBOOK PAGE BOOKBUB  WHO – Hello all! My name is Judy Ann Davis. I’m a Pennsylvania writer of contemporary and historical westerns, mysteries, and romances, often crossing and incorporating more than one genre. My full length novel, Four White Roses, published by the Wild Rose Press, has won three awards. With a degree in journalism and communications, I spent my career writing for the media, industry, and education before moving on to fiction. My signature tagline is “Writing romance with a touch of mystery”—and always, my books have a (HEA) happily ever after! INTERESTS – Reading, writing, woodworking and golfing are some of my favorite activities. NETWORK – I’m a member of Penn Writers and The Romance Writers of America. I’m an indie author as well as a Wild Rose Press author. I have social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, BookBub, LinkedIn, my website, and my blog—“A Writer’s Revelations.” DESK – Oh, dear. I write from my laptop almost anywhere. My desk at home is semi-organized with a planner, a stack of small, colored note paper, Post-its, coffee warmer and coffee. I’m a color-coding freak and have colored files with labels. I love well-sharpened, #2 pencils and special BIC Atlantis pens with blue ink. I have the first dollar I earned in fiction writing framed. OUTRAGEOUS – I used to play hooky from school to harrow the fields of our farm in late spring—and get a suntan before everyone else. I had to be off the field with the tractor and equipment before 4 p.m. when the school bus came through. (Keeping up with homework was never an issue. I graduated third in my high school class.) WINDOW – My backyard is a verdant paradise. It’s a carpet of green grass. My covered patio, complete with a swing, is surrounded by tall zebra grass, day lilies, and high ferns along with four potted ferns hanging between the roof’s support posts. My husband and I have scores of bushes, flowers, and colorful perennial flowers around our yard, along with rag roses and blueberries. It’s beautiful to see fall come with its many colors, but a little disheartening to see all the greenery disappear.  HUCKLEBERRY HAPPINESS In 1885, Emelia Stone and her sister must learn to operate their deceased parents’ bakery in a small town in Pennsylvania. A large mortgage looms on their family home. When her sister leaves town, Emelia is forced to handle the bakery and burden alone. The Pennsylvania Railroad is searching for the perfect dessert for its passengers. Joe Sawicki, owner of Sawicki Brothers Ice Company, is certain Emelia can win the contest and the hundred- dollar bonus if she creates a special ice cream to accompany her popular huckleberry pies. He has loved her since they played hooky in grade school to explore the company’s ice cave. Can Emelia find courage to stand up to the town’s bully to win the competition? And will Joe have the mettle to express his undying love and win first place in Emelia’s heart? LINKS: Amazon Author Page Huckleberry Happiness Blog 
Interests – I love reading, of course. I got a Kindle for Christmas so I’m having fun with that. I still have my old Sony reader that my husband bought for me back in 2008, which is eons ago in tech terms. But it still works, so I still use it. Lately, I’ve really gotten into audiobooks. It’s fun to be told a story, especially by a gifted narrator. And I love the convenience of being able to listen to a book while doing something else, like driving or working out at the gym. Another of my interests is yoga. I’ve been practicing yoga for many years and I’ve always enjoyed it, but through the pandemic it’s become a lifeline for me. When everything closed and I couldn’t go out much, my yoga classes were still there. My yoga instructor started offering classes through Zoom and I love it. I’ll be continuing with at home Zoom classes until the end of June, and then I guess we’ll see if the studio reopens. Network – Right now, I’m a little disconnected as I’ve let my memberships in formal writing groups drop. I belong to an informal group of romance writers in my home province (I’m in Canada) and we keep in touch through Facebook. I’ve been a member of this group for over twenty-five years, even though I now live in another province. I usually connect with the group once or twice a year at a retreat, but this year, unfortunately, it doesn’t look like we’ll be able to meet. We’re planning a virtual retreat through Zoom in an upcoming weekend. It’ll be great to see everyone, but it won’t be quite the same. I also belong to the Word Wranglers. A group of six of us blog together about writing and life in general. We’ve become friends and enjoy talking to each other online. I’ve never actually met any of the other Wranglers in person, but I hope someday we can get together for a retreat or a conference. Ah, I remember conferences. Such fun. Desk – You can pretty much count on my desk being a crazy mess 99.9% of the time. I keep saying I should clean and organize better but writing projects and cleaning other parts of the house keep getting in my way. At least that’s my excuse. One of these days I’m going to have make cleaning my office a priority. Really. I am. Outrageous – I can do a mean Downward Facing Dog. It’s my favorite pose. I’m no spring chicken, so when it comes to flexibility, I think I’m doing okay. Window – My office window looks out onto a corner of our deck, our neighbor’s house and the fence between us. Not a very inspiring view, but I do what I can with it. In the summer I plant flowers in the flower bed next to the deck so there’s always a little color. In the winter the only color is white; the wind tends to whip the snow into frothy drifts that pile up against the house and the fence. This window is a nice, warm spot to watch a cold, nasty winter storm. *Note from D. V. I recently read and reviewed this book giving it 🦉🦉🦉🦉🦉 Two souls in pain, two hearts in need of rescue. Garrett Saunders' world changed two years ago on a road in Afghanistan. Back home, he feels like a stranger. As he struggles to find his place in the world, he meets a horse destined for the slaughterhouse and a woman bent on rescuing the strays of the world, including him. Blair Greyson moves to Masonville to look after her ailing grandfather and give her rescue horses a home. Right away she butts heads with a surly former Marine. Despite a rocky start, they come to an agreement: Blair will board Garrett's rescue horse and he'll help with repairs around her farm. Garrett finds purpose working with Blair—and falls in love with her. But she's hiding a secret. Can she forgive herself and accept Garrett's love, or will she let guilt and regret continue to rule her life? Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Heal-Heart-Masonville-Book-ebook/dp/B0875SLGK6 Amazon.ca: https://www.amazon.ca/Heal-Heart-Masonville-Book-ebook/dp/B0875SLGK6 Amazon.UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Heal-Heart-Masonville-Book-ebook/dp/B0875SLGK6 Amazon.de: https://www.amazon.de/Heal-Heart-Masonville-Book-ebook/dp/B0875SLGK6 Amazon.fr: https://www.amazon.fr/Heal-Heart-Masonville-Book-ebook/dp/B0875SLGK6 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/to-heal-a-heart-jana-richards/1136868654?ean=2940162717966 iBooks: https://books.apple.com/us/book/to-heal-a-heart/id1508639914 Social Media Links: Website: http://www.janarichards.com Blog: http://janarichards.blogspot.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JanaRichardsAuthor Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/JanaRichards_ Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/janarichards Amazon UK Author Page: http://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B002DEVWWG Newsletter Signup: http://janarichards.com/contact.html#newsletter Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2892274Jana_Richards Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jana-richards   W: My name is J. Arlene Culiner and I write what I want to read. I want to be transported to unusual settings. I want unconventional, passionate heroes and heroines, people who refuse the roles society sets out for them. I want to learn about things I don’t know — history, music, foreign countries, snakes, and spiders. And I need a good plot. Can discovery, adventure, and history be mixed with Contemporary Romance? Absolutely. That definitely happens in my latest romance, The Turkish Affair. My heroes and heroines are always over the age of 40 because I think falling in love later in life is more interesting. I also write unromantic mysteries, short stories, and narrative non-fiction, but that’s another world altogether. And, if anyone wants to listen in, I tell true stories right here on my podcast: https://soundcloud.com/j-arlene-culiner I: I am also an amateur musician and play in several orchestras — one for 19th century classical music, and one in which we all play period instruments and music from the 17th century. I also play in two bands, and often get together with several friends to play duets, trios, as well as to gossip. What instruments do I play? Oboe, baroque oboe, baroque taille, English horn, tuba, flute, piccolo, recorder, and Breton bombarde (a very noisy bagpipe without the bag.) N: Never will anyone encounter super-heroes or super-heroines in my stories. There will be no impossible rescues, no ideal families. For me, what’s important in a romance is reading about that first, very tentative gentleness, and those early stirrings of love. D: My desk? Oh dear. It’s a disaster. So what? You should see what’s going on inside my closets, or garden, or pockets. Inside my head, nothing is very tidy either. Does it matter? Not to me. O: I continue doing what I’ve always done, crossing Europe alone on foot, sleeping in fields, getting lost in snowstorms in countries where I can’t speak a word of the language. I’ve worked as a belly dancer in Turkey, as a storyteller on the radio in France. I’ve delivered newspapers in Germany, painted walls in Algeria. Most of my adult life, I’ve been a contemporary artist creating social critical work, and living in a former inn and café, in France. The inn closed a long, long time ago, but there are still strange things going on in all those rooms. Just click on a window: http://www.jill-culiner.com W: What do I see outside my window at the moment? Nothing. Why? Because, I write in a closet, and there is no window. In here, it’s quiet enough for me to record my audiobooks. Is it raining outside? Snowing? Is there a flood, or a tornado? I have no idea. In this closet, a place of dark corners and shadow, I’m free to invent a whole world. And, I certainly have a whale of a time, too.  The Turkish Affair Priceless artifacts are disappearing from the ancient Hittite site of Karakuyu in Turkey, and the site director has vanished. Called in to solve the mystery, archaeologist Renaud Townsend is hindered by both his inability to speak the language and the knowledge that the local police are corrupt. His attraction to translator Anne Pierson is immediate, although he is troubled by her refusal to talk about the past and her fear of public scandal. But when murder enters the picture, both Anne and Renaud realize that the risk of falling in love is not the only danger. Excerpt A delicious breeze tickled the air, and the little boat rocked gently. A fine line appeared between his brows, and his blue eyes were, once again, serious. “I need your help.” She stared. “My help? With what? Translating?” “No. With something else. I have to find out who is behind the thefts at Karakuyu.” The feeling of dread returned, but she forced herself to sound casual. “How could I possibly help you with that?” “I don’t know.” He sighed. “I suppose I just don’t want to feel that I’m alone in this.” What could she say to that? Tell him she was the last person he should team up with? That long ago, she’d escaped arrest by the skin of her teeth? If she did so, this splendid moment would be over. The silver-foil glimmer of romance would be tarnished forever. He’d row back to shore, drive back to Gülkale, get rid of her as quickly as possible. “Anne?” He reached out to caress her bare arm. “Come back from wherever you are.” “You know nothing about me,” she said jaggedly. “Nothing,” he agreed. She swallowed. “I could be involved in the thefts for all you know. Why ask for my help? Why choose me?” He smiled faintly. “A good question. I suppose, quite simply, I need—or want—to trust you.” She felt utterly miserable. Why was life always like this? Wanting someone and not being able to have them? Wanting trust, but seeing it snatched away before it came close? “Okay, then.” His voice was surprisingly tender. “If I promise not to probe into secrets, do I have the right to ask one question?” She nodded with resignation. “Can I trust you?” The answer to that was simple enough. “Yes. Of course you can.” His returning smile was radiant. “Good.” She stared helplessly at the strong, angular features highlighted by the merciless sun. “That’s crazy. You’re willing to take my word for it? I could be lying.” He leaned forward, cupped her chin in his hand, and met her gaze evenly. “No way. Not with a face as expressive as yours.” Author Bio Writer, photographer, social critical artist, musician, and occasional actress, J. Arlene Culiner, was born in New York and raised in Toronto. She has crossed much of Europe on foot, has lived in a Hungarian mud house, a Bavarian castle, a Turkish cave-dwelling, on a Dutch canal, and in a haunted house on the English moors. She now resides in a 400-year-old former inn in a French village of no interest and, much to local dismay, protects all creatures, especially spiders and snakes. She particularly enjoys incorporating into short stories, mysteries, narrative non-fiction, and romances, her experiences in out-of-the-way communities, and her conversations with strange characters. Links Web site: http://www.j-arleneculiner.com Blog: http://j-arleneculiner.over-blog.com Trailer: http://j-arleneculiner.com/page-2-book4-turkish4-video.html Storytelling Podcast: https://soundcloud.com/j-arlene-culiner Amazon Author page https://www.amazon.com/author/jarleneculiner-quirky-romances Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/j-arlene-culiner Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0823B18Z3 The Wild Rose Press https://www.thewildrosepress.com/authors/j-arlene-culiner Barnes & Noble : https://tinyurl.com/yx2lyg6v Twitter: https://twitter.com/JArleneCuliner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jarlene.culiner/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7158064.J_Arlene_Culiner Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jarleneculiner/ |
HostHi, my name is D. V. Stone. I am a multi-genre author of two independently published books. Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar is a fantasy romance. Agent Sam Carter and the Mystery at Branch Lake is a mid-grade paranormal. Rock House Grill, a contemporary romance released April 6th, 2020. Rainbow Sprinkles a second chance romance is now available. Archives
September 2020
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