KMN Books

Leap Day for Man and Release Day for Clash of Wills!

2012-02-29T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today we have a Guest Author S. G. Rogers and she has a real treat for us. Her new release Clash of Wills is available today!! But I'll let her tell you all about it.

It’s one small Leap Dayfor man, but one giant release day for Clashof Wills! Not quite a year ago I was searching on the Internet for fantasyshort story markets and came across a listing for The Wild Rose Press. I read their submission guidelinescarefully, and that’s when I first became aware there was a subcategory of theromance genre called Romantic Fantasy. The short story I’d written was too long for most magazines to consider,so I tweaked it a bit and submitted it to Kelly Schaub, the Faery Rose editorat TWRP. When Clash of Wills was accepted, I couldn’t stop flashing my pearlywhites. Since then, I’ve made manyfriends in ‘the garden,’ as it’s called, and I’m proud to finally call myself arose. Happy Leap Day. ~ S.G. Rogers

When an unconventional princess meets a footlooseprince, a battle of wits begins…

PrincessSamantha’s magical compass will help her locate her long-lost brother, but onlyif she manages to escape her royal parents for a few weeks. When an unwelcomesuitor comes to call, Samantha seizes her chance. She beguiles the prince intotaking her north, intending to abandon him at her earliest opportunity.Unfortunately, his captivating good looks and charming manner present anunforeseen complication—especially when she is forced to accept help from thevery man she has deceived.

Tomaintain his bachelorhood, handsome Prince Wills is not above deception.Although reluctantly entangled in Samantha’s scheme, he vows to protecther…until a lie threatens to destroy their alliance. Can his powerfulattraction to Samantha overcome his mistrust? And can they survive adangerous quest to the wild and magical Uncharted Region?

Excerpt:

Thespring squall became more intense, and the temperature on the mountain fellrapidly. Frequent thunderclaps frayed her nerves. She kept striking the flint,hoping a spark would catch hold, but gusts of wind foiled her efforts eachtime. “Burn!” she cried. “Just burn.”

At hercommand, the fire pit suddenly burst into robust flames, creating the heat thatWills so desperately needed. She dragged him closer to the warmth. Blessedrelief flowed through her when he stopped shaking and his color began toimprove. She brushed his hair back from his handsome face.

“You’rea good man, Prince Wills,” she murmured. “You’ll make a good king someday…ifyou survive this misadventure.”

WhileWills slept, Samantha rebalanced their packs to more equally distribute theweight. Then she stood at the far end of the lookout to watch the storm. Icyrain blew into her face and soaked her tunic. She gritted her teeth against thecold.

“Are youinsane?” Wills’s voice rose above the howling gale. When he felt Samantha’sfingers, he gasped. “You’re freezing!”

Hedraped her coat over her shoulders and all but yanked her toward the fire.“What did you think you were doing?” he scolded.

“Youneeded the coat more than I did.”

“That’snonsense. You could die of exposure up here!”

Willsfolded Samantha into the warmth of his arms. They clung together until thesensation returned to her fingertips. “Thank you, Wills,” she murmured,finally. “Thatfeels much better.”

Hebrushed his lips against hers. “Thank you for taking care of me.”

Sheresponded with a whisper of a kiss. “You’re welcome.”

Romanticfantasy novelette Clash of Wills is available at TheWild Rose Press and other fine booksellers.

Mi'lady Jeanne Treat with Wee Sneak Preview!

2012-02-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

Karen: JEANNE TREAT captures the life of medieval Scotland with vivid prose. You'll feel the spray of the sea, the warmth of the peat fires and you'll fall in love with the seafaring people of Whinnyfold. I just loved DARK BIRTHRIGHT. Let's give Jeanne a warm welcome. Please feel free to comment and ask Jeanne questions.

Jeanne: This is a snippet from my novel DarkBirthright, set in 17^th century Scotland. Just a wee bit of background: Two brothers, Dughall and Ian, meet a beautiful lass in theforest. Both desire her, but Keirafavors the shy one, Dughall. Ian throwsout his shoulder and Keira sets it. Now, they are gathered around a campfire, sharing a meal.

Excerpt:

Keira kneeled and unwrapped the parsnips,allowing them to cool.

Dughall took two sticks from the fire andhanded one to her. “Eat, lass.” Theysat around the fire, eating roasted hare and parsnips until there was noneleft.

Ian wiped his hand on his breeks. “Wheredid ye learn that trick with your foot, while pullin’ on my arm?”

“A lad in our village throws his shoulderout every harvesting season. I’vehealed him more than once.” Keira offered him another cup of willow bark tea. “Drinkthis, it will ease the pain.” Sheleaned over and spoke softly. “Will ye be all right for a while? I need to talk to Dughall alone.”

Ian snorted. “Take care of the lass,Brother. Show her how grateful we are.”

***

They left Ian and walked through thewoods to a nearby oak tree. Dughall’sheart raced as she moved closer. He reached down to pick a violet, andpresented it to her.

“Sweet Lass…

Bonny as a flower.

Strong as the wind inwinter.

Wise as an ancienthealer.

Steady as my poundingheart.

That is what ye are.”

Keira took his hand and squeezed it.“Poetry... Ye don’t seem like brothers. Ye’re so different.”

Dughall reddened. “I’m sorry for what mybrother said, lass. I’ll not take advantage of ye.”

Keira’s dress brushed his breeks. Shetouched his cheek and parted his lips with a finger. “It doesn’t matter what hethinks.”

Dughall’s skin flushed. His heart beat sohard that he could barely think. She put her arms on his shoulders, pursed herlips, and waited. The lad trembledas he kissed her lightly. Her lips were soft and moist, and suddenly they were open.He took a breath and shuddered. Her tongue found his and he responded, kissingher passionately. He was light-headed as her fingers caressed his back. Keirasat on the ground and pulled him down beside her. He was breathless as he leaned forward to touch her face.“Are ye sure, lass?”

She placed his hand on her bodice. “Aye.”

The curve of her breast was soft. He reached down and ran his fingersunder her skirt, tracing her knee.

The lass shuddered. “It’s meant to be,”she whispered, as she unlaced his breeks. “Take me right here.”

Dark Birthright is book one in the DarkBirthright Triology. The books areavailable in paperback and eBook and are illustrated by fantasy artist JaneStarr Weils.

Synopsis:

It’s 1619 in Scotland. A child born of mysterious parentage is given to fisher folk to raise as theirson. Dughall grows up in a family bound by honor, becomes a healer, anddisplays psychic abilities. His life is torn apart when he’s claimed byhis real father, a cruel and powerful lord who tries to mold him in his image. Dughall must define himself, in the midst of a struggle between a Duke,an Earl, and the family who wants him back. All the while, he'sdetermined to marry the girl he left behind, a woodland lass with eyes as greenas a peacock's feather.

Book website:
http://www.DarkBirthright.com

Video book trailer:

http://youtu.be/DeqlCvLhryA

Purchasing links for paperbacks andeBooks:

http://www.DarkLordTheNovel.com

Karen: Don't miss DARK LORD and DARK DESTINY in this fabulous Trilogy!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day? No Thanks.

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Karen: The guest author today is Katherine Grey. She resides in upstate NY with her family. In August 2011, her tale IMPETUOUS debuted at The Wild Rose Press. For those who love steamy encounters, intrigue, danger, and adventure, this story is for you. Also, look for her new tale, THE MUSE soon to be released in the Love Letter Line at TWRP.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day? No Thanks.

By Katherine Grey

I don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whenever I admit this to other women, they look at me like I’m some alien creature they’ve never seen before.

I’d rather get nothing or do nothing special on Valentine’s Day and have my honey give me flowers or do something special on any other random day just because he wanted to surprise me or for no reason at all rather than receive something he felt compelled to give me because of a date on the calendar.

To me, feeling like you have to give someone a gift, take them dinner, or buy them flowers or you’ll be on the sh*t list for weeks isn’t really showing how much you love someone. You’re spending the money etc because it’s expected and to avoid an argument not because you want to do those things.

Every year I know women who look forward to Valentine’s Day with the same anticipation as they do Christmas. They eagerly wait to see what gift or gifts their significant others will give them for the holiday. They expect flowers, candy, and/or a special dinner in addition to the gift(s).

If the celebration of the holiday doesn’t live up to their expectations or standards, their spouses or boyfriends spend the next few days (or weeks) in the dog house. They make those guys miserable because they didn’t spend enough or do enough to show their love.

I’m not saying all females are like this, but I have to say seeing how these women act certainly colors my view, making me more cynical about the holiday than I should be. This past Tuesday I worked the day job, spent time with my mother, and read a good book. Nothing out of the ordinary. Okay, it was a little out of the ordinary as I didn’t do anything writing related that day.

For those of you who celebrated Valentine’s Day, I hope you had a great day and for those of you who didn’t, I hope you had a great day too. And remember, it really is just another day on the calendar. :o)

Impetuous

by Katherine Grey

Blurb:

Mateo de Montayas, an impoverished Spanish count, comes to England to recover a stolen family heirloom and to satisfy his hunger for revenge against the man who destroyed his family. Arriving in London, he learns his hated enemy died three years before but has left behind a daughter. What better way to retrieve the heirloom and exact revenge than to use her to his advantage?

Teresa Darlington will do anything to keep scandal away from her frail mother and prove her father wasn't a thief, even risk her reputation in a race to find the missing heirloom before the Count does. But she didn't count on falling in love with the man determined to ruin her family. Can she find the heirloom before he does and protect her family, or will her heart lead her in a different direction?

Buy Links:

You can purchase a copy at any of the following links:

The Wild Rose Press

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

You can contact Katherine at her blog or on Facebook

New Short Story Releases To Warm Your Heart

2012-02-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

Karen: Cheryl Pierson is here to share your new short story releases with us! I've had the honor of reading some of her fabulous tales. She knows how to draw you into a story and make you believe you're there. You'll love her rugged heroes, who oftentime need mending and her spirited heroines, who are willing to nurse them back to health!

Feel free to comment and ask questions. Cheryl loves to hear from the readers!

Cheryl: I couldn’t let another day go by without showing off my new“stand alone” short stories. Letme tell you why I’m so excited about these stories.

First of all, I love to read and write short stories as wellas novels. In today’s world, shortstories are growing increasingly popular because they can be finished in onesitting, usually. Publishing by Rebecca J. Vickery, and her imprints, WesternTrail Blazer and Victory Tales Press, have been a fantastic source ofanthologies and “stand alone” short stories in today’s growing market.

The anthologies are themed anthologies, based upon a seasonor holiday. The stories that are contracted for those anthologies cannot bereprinted anywhere else for six months. But, when their “time” is up, acontract may be put in place to continue to sell them in the anthologies and toalso offer them as “single sell” .99 offerings, as well.

Three of my short stories came up for that option recently: ALWAYSAND FOREVER, which first appeared in A HALLOWEEN COLLECTION; THE LAST OFHER KIND, which came out in A MYSTERY/SUSPENSE COLLECTION; and A HEARTFOR A HEART, which was first offered in A VALENTINE COLLECTION.

This growing short story market has been a great way forreaders to sample different authors in sub-genres they love, or take a chanceon an author that maybe they’ve never read before in a sub-genre they wouldn’tnormally read—because the price is right. At just .99 a story, you really can’t go wrong. And look at thesefantastic covers, created by none other than KAREN M. NUTT! Aren’t theyawesome?

All of my short stories are available on Nook, throughBarnes and Noble, and on Kindle, through Amazon. Here are some covers and blurbs for the latest shortstories of mine that have come out recently as single-sell offerings. I hope you enjoy!

THE LAST OF HER KIND (paranormal suspense):

An old Victrola is the cherished possession of Cassie’sgrandmother. Her father also seemsoddly attached to the antique phonograph, but her new stepmother detests it andwants it gone. Grandmother issick, probably dying, and Cassie will be the only one left in the house whosees through Trish as Cassie’s brothers no longer live with them.

Then Cassie discovers a wonderful, yet frighteningsecret. Will her new knowledgesave her family or destroy it?

ALWAYS AND FOREVER (contemporary “2^ndchance at love”):

At a children’s Halloween carnival, a Gypsy fortunetellerpredicts a new love for both Cindy and Gage. When the two meet over a poorly carved pumpkin, loveflickers to life and the stars begin to align.

But the odds of finding a new love later in life seeminsurmountable and the prophecy seems too good to be true. After all, Gage has been burned beforeand Cindy doesn’t believe in fortunes or second chances.

Will doubt overshadow their attraction or has love alreadybeen set in motion? Can thestar-crossed pair put their faith in the love that was foretold? Can theybelieve in each other?

A HEART FOR A HEART (a Valentine’s Day sweetromance):

Kiera is allset to welcome Cory into her home as a foster child. Orphaned and with a learning disability, Cory is lookingforward to living with his tutor. Until his uncle shows up…

Sam Tiger returns from military duty to find his deceasedbrother’s son being taken in by a stranger. The boy needs his family and Sam is it. He never expects the tutor to stand upto him and want to keep Cory. Thenthe worst happens—he finds himself attracted to Kiera. It’s Valentine’s Day,and Cupid’s got deadly aim!

TO SEE ALLOF CHERYL’S WORK, CLICK HERE:

Cheryl's Amazon Author Page:

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B002JV8GUE

Karen: Cheryl, I'm so glad you love your book covers. I had fun designing them. :) Thank you, again for stopping by and sharing your tales.

Just a heads up readers, Cheryl will be back on March 5th with her new release Kane's Redemption!

Valentine's Gifts For Everyone!

2012-02-14T00:01:00.001-08:00

THE CONTEST IS CLOSED. MEL IS THE WINNER! CONGRATULATIONS!

Karen: Happy Valentine's Day! Cara, I'm so thrilled to have you here today. Cara Marsi pens romantic suspense tales for The Wild Rose Press and dark paranormal stories for Noble Romance Publishing. She's given us all a treat for Valentine's Day. Two Free Reads and she's running a contest for another special prize. Please give Cara a warm welcome!!

Cara: I want to thank Karen for having me today. As a treat, I’ve written a special Valentine’s story just for her and her readers. I hope you enjoy THE LAST CUPCAKE. And I hope you’ll stop by Amazon where I’m offering my sweet, sexy novella, LOVING OR NOTHING free today only. Here’s the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005LQ99U0

I’ll also give away a PDF of my romantic suspense, LOGAN’S REDEMPTION, to one commenter.(Don't forget to leave your email.) **Contest ends on Feb. 16th.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

THE LAST CUPCAKE

With a sigh I pulled my special cupcake from the refrigerated case and set it on the counter. Though several customers had wanted to buy it, I wouldn’t sell. I’d made it for Brett, only he hadn’t shown up. My shoulders sagged. It was closing time for my bakery. I wouldn’t see Brett today.

The large cupcake, chocolate, with pink buttercream frosting and topped with a dark red buttercream rose, sat on the counter as if mocking me. I’d had such hopes that today - Valentine’s Day - Brett would finally ask me out.

My shop had done a booming business. Cases where my Valentine’s Day cupcakes and heart-shaped cookies once rested were now bare. I should be happy, but my heart was breaking a little. No Brett had walked into my shop, his long-legged stride and lopsided grin brightening my day.

Brett, construction manager at a site down the street from my shop, had been coming to my bakery every day for a month. He always bought a chocolate cupcake, then stayed to talk to me and flirt a little. I knew he was unattached and I’d wanted him to ask me out almost from the first day. Had I read him wrong? Maybe he wasn’t attracted to me after all. Maybe I should ask him out - but what if he said no?

Tamping down self-pity, I pushed away from the counter and headed toward the door to lock it. As I put the key in the lock, I looked out the plate glass window and saw Brett hurrying down the street. My heart lurched and excitement rose in me.

I opened the door to him, then locked it after he slid through. We stood for a few seconds and stared at each other. His longish dark blond hair was ruffled from the breeze and his green eyes lit with an appreciative gleam while his gaze scanned me.

Nervous as a teen with her first crush, I smoothed a hand over my hair. “Brett, I didn’t think I’d see you today.” Thankfully my voice sounded normal.

He gave me that lopsided smile I’d come to love. “It’s been a really busy day and I couldn’t get away till now. I had to come in for my daily cupcake fix.”

I laughed, feeling some of my nervousness dissolve. “I saved a cupcake for you.” I walked to the counter with Brett following close behind.

When I handed him the cupcake, his eyes widened. “Wow, Janie, that’s beautiful. You’re a true artist. It’s almost too pretty to eat.”

“It’s meant to be eaten. Enjoy. It’s on the house. My Valentine’s Day gift to you.” My face heated as soon as the words were out. I was giving him a Valentine’s Day gift and I didn’t even know how he felt about me. What if he’d lied about being unattached?

“Thanks,” he said quietly. As he took the cupcake from me, our fingers touched, shooting sparks up my arm. I know he felt something too, because his eyes darkened with awareness.

He took a bite of the cupcake and moaned softly, his enjoyment showing on his face. When he flicked his tongue over his lips to lick away the icing, my knees wobbled like unset gelatin. What would it be like to have his lips on mine?

Brett held out the cupcake. “Have some.” I took a bite, relishing the rich taste. When I licked the icing off my lips, Brett stared, as if mesmerized.

Very slowly, he took the sweet from me and placed it on the counter, then turned back to me.

“Hell, Janie, I don’t know how to say this, so I’m just going to say it. This is my last cupcake.”

I felt as if five pounds of sugar settled in my stomach, weighing me down. He was going to tell me he had a girlfriend or that he was moving to another city for his job.

I swallowed. “What do you mean?”

He patted his stomach, his flat, muscled stomach. “Since I’ve been coming to your bakery, I’ve had to add extra workouts at the gym. I’ve got to stop with the cupcakes.” His gaze softened, and he took one of my hands in his, pulling me toward him.

“Your cupcakes are exceptional,” he said. “But you’re extraordinary. Why do you think I’ve been coming in here every day?”

A bud of hope opened in my chest. “For my delicious cupcakes?”

He cupped my face between his strong, work-roughened hands. “You’re more delicious than any cupcake.

It’s taken me all this time to get up the nerve, but will you go out with me? I need to see you, be with you, but if I keep coming to your bakery on the pretense of needing a cupcake, I won’t be able to fit through the door.”

Happiness bubbled up in me. “Oh, yes, I’ll go out with you. What do you mean it took you all this time to get up the nerve to ask?”

“You’re so beautiful. And you’re so talented. You intimidate the hell out of me.”

“If I’d known you felt that way I would’ve messed up a few cupcake batches.”

He laughed softly and skimmed his thumbs over my cheekbones. “Will you have dinner with me tonight?”

I nodded, too overcome with joy to speak. He bent and took my lips in a tender kiss that poured out his longings. I wound my arms around his neck, savoring the feel of his lips moving gently, a little hesitantly, over mine. He tasted of chocolate, buttercream and the promise of sweet days and nights.

He pulled away and gazed into my eyes. “You’re more delicious than I’d imagined.”

“You too,” I whispered.

“I think I’m going to enjoy having a girlfriend who looks like an angel and bakes like one too.”

I stepped back and raised an eyebrow. “So I’m your girlfriend now?”

“I hope so.”

With a smile, I touched his lips with my finger. “I thought you were worried about your manly physique. As my boyfriend, you’ll be eating lots of baked goods.”

He gave me a wicked grin. “I know some very inventive ways to work off the weight.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Then he kissed me again, a slow seductive kiss that whetted my appetite and left me wanting more, so much more.

About Author: Cara Marsi likes to describe herself as a former corporate drone and cubicle dweller. Now that she’s no longer a slave to the corporate world, she can more fully indulge her love of romance. She likes to write about feisty, independent women and the hot guys who love them. She’s published in traditional romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. In addition, she’s sold more than a dozen short stories to women’s magazines.

Cara and her husband like to travel, and she loves to write about the places they’ve visited. They share their home with a fat, black diva of a cat named Killer.

Please visit Cara’s website, www.caramarsi.com, to learn more about her books and her life. And to see a picture of Killer all pumped up for Halloween.

Romance Is In the Air!

2012-02-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Authors post your ROMANTIC blurbs, first KISSES, or your characters' romantic DATES! Don't forget to leave a LINK to where the readers can purchase your tales of romance!!

Readers join in and chat about your most romantic VALENTINE'S DAY!

Romance is in the Air Week Starts Tomorrow!

2012-02-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

Here's the lineup:

Monday, Feb 13th Authors post your ROMANTIC blurbs, first KISSES, or your characters' romantic DATES! Don't forget to leave a LINK to where the readers can purchase your tales of romance!!

Readers join in and chat about your most romantic VALENTINE'S DAY!
************************

Valentine's Gifts for Everyone!

Feb 14th Happy Valentine's Day! Cara, I'm so thrilled to have you here today. Cara Marsi pens romantic suspense tales for the Wild Rose Press and dark paranormal stories for Noble Romance Publishing. She's given us all a treat for Valentine's Day. TWO FREE READS and she's running a CONTEST for another special prize. Please give Cara a warm welcome!!

**************************

Wednesday Feb. 15th New Short Story Releases To Warm Your Heart by Cheryl Pierson

Cheryl Pierson is here to share your new short story releases with us! I've had the honor of reading some of her fabulous tales. She knows how to draw into a story and make you believe you're there. You'll love her rugged heroes, who oftentime need mending and her spirited heroines, who are willing to nurse them back to health!

**************************

Thursday, Feb. 16th The guest author today is Katherine Grey with her post: "Celebrate Valentine's Day? No Thanks." She resides in upstate NY with her family. In August 2011, her tale IMPETUOUS debuted at The Wild Rose Press. For those who love steamy encounters, intrigue, danger, and adventure, this story is for you. Also, look for her new tale, THE MUSE soon to be released in the Love Letter Line at TWRP.

***************************

Friday Feb. 17th JEANNE TREAT captures the life of medieval Scotland with vivid prose. You'll feel the spray of the sea, the warmth of the peat fires and you'll fall in love with the seafaring people of Whinnyfold. I just loved DARK BIRTHRIGHT. Let's give Jeanne a warm welcome.

Karen Michelle Nutt
Website
Blogspot
Facebook
Twitter
Books Available at Amazon

RTW Cupid Party 6 Books and Kindle Giveaway!

2012-02-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

Last day to enter to win a Kindle. It's super easy. Just comment on the six posts at RTW and your entered to win. Not only do you have a chance to win a Kindle, you have a chance to win books from each of the authors, too. Have fun and Happy Valentine's Day!! http://romancingthewest.blogspot.com/

Romance, Love Letters and Beth Trissel

2012-02-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

THE CONTEST IS CLOSED. THE WINNERS ARE CATHY AND KATRINA! CONGRATULATIONS!!

Beth Trissel is a paranormal and historical romance author with The Wild Rose Press. She holds the title awards for: The Golden Heart Finalist, Double Epic Award Finalist and a Publisher's Weekly BHB Reader's Choice Best Books Award. Not only does she pen wonderful romances charged with love and danger, she also writes informative posts about plants and herbs on her One Writer's Way Blog. (I love that by the way. ) Let's give Beth a warm welcome. Aren't her little friends adorable?

***Beth's running CONTEST, too. One lucky commenter will receive an e-book copy of INTO THE LION'S HEART. READ On to find out how you may be a winner! Contest ends SAT. FEB. 11TH AT 12:00 PM PST.

Karen: Let’s start with youtelling the readers a little about yourself.

BETH: Thanks for having me as your guest,Karen. Married to my high schoolsweetheart, I live on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia surrounded bymy children, grandbabies, and assorted animals. An avid gardener, my love of herbs and heirloom plantsfigures into my work. The rich history of Virginia, the Native Americans andthe people who journeyed here from far beyond her borders are at the heart ofmy inspiration. In addition toAmerican settings, I also write historical and time travel romances set in theBritish Isles.

Karen: Tell us a little about the storyINTO THE LION’S HEART. What inspired you to write this tale?

BETH: My fascination with the past and those who’ve gone beforeus is the ongoing inspiration behind my work. Most of my historical and light paranormal romances are setin America with the exception of SomewhereMy Lass which includes the Scottish Highlands. In my first English historical romance, Into the Lion’s Heart, I more deeply explored my Britishheritage. Set in 1789 England, the story opens with the hero, Captain Dalton Evans (fought in the American Revolution) journeying to Dover to meet the ship carrying a distant cousin,Mademoiselle Sophia Devereux, who’s fleeing the French Revolution. My research into the explosion acrossthe English Channel made me aware of how many French émigrés fled the country during the initialyear of the revolution. Many werearistocrats, including the king’s own brothers. Most all of the nobility who did not flee, while they stillcould, were guillotined during the subsequent reign of terror. But I wanted tofocus on that first explosive year in this story.

Karen: CaptainDalton Evans arrives in Dover to meet his charge. What is his first impressionwhen he meets Cecile Beaumont, the heroine of the story? What are Dalton’s weaknesses?Strengths?

BETH: When Captain Dalton Evans first seesCecile, whom he assumes is a distant French relation, he’s surprised by herlack of sophistication and the arrogance he anticipated from anaristocrat. Dalton is a skillfulstrategist, hardened from years of war in America during the Revolution,disappointed both in his career and circumstances. As the second son he didn’t inherit his father’s title andgrand estate but his uncle’s rambling manor house in Cornwall along withfinancial challenges and an eccentric aunt. But he isn’t easily defeated. However, he’s rather moody.

Karen: Tell us about CecileBeaumont. What does she think of Captain Dalton Evans and Thomas Archer? Whatare Cecile’s weaknesses and strengths?

BETH: Cecile Beaumont is impressed by the brooding captain from thestart. Although his charmingfriend, the soon to be ‘Lord’ Thomas Archer, also has a certain draw. Cecile’s appeal lies in her beguilinglack of artfulness, but this makes masquerading as an aristocrat achallenge. Having suffered theinitial volleys of the French Revolution, she’s tougher than many ladies her ofera and has had to do actual physical work, so knows how to make do and thinkon her feet. Her immediate goal issurvival.

Into theLion’s Heart kickedoff the new historical line the Wild Rose Press is debuting called Love Letters, the idea being that aletter must be responsible for bringing the hero and heroine together.

Blurb: As the French Revolution rages, the Englishnobility offer sanctuary to many a refugee. Captain Dalton Evans arrives inDover to meet a distant cousin, expecting to see a spoiled aristocrat. Instead,he's conquered by the simplicity of his new charge. And his best friend ThomasArcher isn't immune to her artless charm, either.

Cecile Beaumontdidn't choose to travel across the Channel. And she certainly didn't expectthat impersonating her own mistress would introduce her to a most mesmerizingman. Now she must play out the masquerade, or risk life, freedom – and herheart.~

Karen: What areyour current projects and works in progress?

BETH: I recently signed with the Wild Rose Press for the third novel in mycolonial frontier series, Kira Daughterof the Moon, the sequel to Native American historical romance novel Throughthe Fire, which will come out later this year. Historical romance RedBird’s Song, also with a strong NA theme, is the second novel in thisseries. In the paranormalrealm, I’m at work on the sequel to my suspenseful Scottish Time Travel romanceSomewhereMy Lass.

Karen: Tell the readers wherethey can find you:

BETH:

Facebook

MyWebsite
My Blog
Twitter

Goodreads

Karen: Is there anything elseyou’d like to tell the readers?

BETH: My stories range from full novels to novellas. Some are straight historical romance while others have timetravel, ghosts, or other paranormal twists. The time periods run the gamut from the early 17^thcentury Scottish Highlands, to Colonial America, with vastly different settingsfrom the wealthy facet of colonial society to the rugged frontier and Shawneewarriors, to the Carolina backcountry during the American Revolution, to Georgian England and the French Revolution, vintageAmerica in the early 20^th century, WW1 and the Hippie Era of 1968,up to modern day...Bound to be something to suit you.

***Contest: Beth is giving awaythe ebook of INTO THE LION'S HEART inwhatever digital format the winner chooses. All you have to do is leave a comment or ask a question. Don't forget to leave your email so Beth may contact you if should win. Good luck!

Karen: Can't wait? Purchase your copy at:

Intothe Lion’s Heartis available from TheWild Rose Press, Amazonkindle, Barnes& Noble,and other online booksellers.

Karen: Thank you so much for sharing with us today! I wish you the very best!

RTW Cupid Party!

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

TWEET
Enter to win a #KINDLE! and FREE EBOOKS! #RTWparty http://romancingthewest.blogspot.com/

You Could Win A

Kindle!

Romancing The West Cupid Party

February 6 to 12, 2012 A Chance to win PRIZES every day!

RTW loves to introduce you to great books and give you a chance to win some, too. That's why our Valentine's Day celebration will be the Romancing The West Cupid Party! And do we every have a terrific line-up for you--talented authors, great books.

All you have to do to enter is to comment and you'll be entered to win the author's prize that day, plus you'll be entered to win the Chicken Dinner Grand Prize. What would that be? A Kindle and a free book from all six authors to put on it! So who are these fabulous authors?

Feb 6: Heather Hiestand
Feb 7: Jacquie Rogers
Feb 8: Beth Trissel
Feb 9: Ginger Simpson

Feb 10: Karen Michelle Nutt (That's me!)

Feb 11: Linda LaRoque
and on

Feb 12: Chicken Dinner announces the winner of a

new Kindle and 6 fabulous books!

Chicken Dinner is the RTW Sunday post where contest winners are announced, and you're treated with a variety of links to interesting western sites.

Undercover Prince and the Secret Service Cinderella

2012-01-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Contest is Closed. The winner is SARAH MCNEAL! Congratulations!!

Sherry Gloag is joining us from England to share your romantic tale about an adventurous Prince and his unlikely Cinderella. Let's give her a warm welcome!

***Sherry is giving away an e-book copy of FROM NOW UNTIL FOREVER. So read on and find out how you may be crowned the winner!

KAREN: Let’s start with you telling the readers alittle about yourself. (short bio)

SHERRY: I’ma transplanted Scot living in the beautiful English county of Norfolk, not veryfar away from the Queens Sandringham Estate. The Wild Rose press released my debut novel, The Brat inOctober 2010 and Astraea Press will release my fifth story His Chosen Bride intime for Valentine’s Day this year.

Ihave tinkered with writing for almost as long as I can remember and had myfirst serious attempt confiscated by one of the teachers, and never saw itagain!

‘Life’got in the way of any further serious attempts at writing until the late1990’s, but it was 2006 when I started writing The Brat. Other than writing I love reading,enjoy gardening, and walking, and forget the time when I’m involved with mycrystal craft work.

KAREN: FromNow Until Forever is your new release. Tell us a little about the story. What inspiredyou to write this tale?

SHERRY:From Now Until Forever started out, just after the British‘royal wedding’ as a short 1500 word short story, which when I put it throughthe wonderful critique group I belong to, the other members all ‘wantedmore’. At the same time anotherfriend pointed me in the direction of a publisher seeking short 5k wordstories, so I had a go. Beforesending it off, I asked a friend of mine to give it the ‘once over.’ Her response? “If it’s rejected, I want it, but you’ll have to get it upto 15k words.” Well, ‘yikes’ wasmy initial response; my next was, actually these characters deserve more. So, when it was rejected in its 5kformat, I set to work. And therest, as they say ‘is history’.

KAREN: Prince Liam is the hero of the story. Whatis he like? What is his first impression when he meets Melanie Babcot, theheroine of the story?

SHERRY:WhilePrince Liam is one of the good guys, he’s rebelled against family duties andcommitments which edged out his own goals and interests and finally leaves hometo travel the world incognito. Hisfather, the king of a small, wealthy European country instructs MelanieBabcott, one of his security staff, to keep up with his son wherever hegoes. It is not until Liam reachesScotland that he and Melanie ‘meet’ for the first time; and he has only oneintention in mind. To learn whathappens next, you’ll have to but the story J

KAREN: Tell us about Melanie. What does she thinkof Prince Liam?

SHERRY:Melaniehas always had a ‘thing’ for Liam, but knows only too well her job and herbackground would exclude any chance of a future for her with the prince. But then life has a way of throwingunexpected curves in your path, doesn’t it? And believe me hers is not an easy one.

KAREN: What are your current projects and works inprogress?

SHERRY:Asyou may have gather from my earlier comments, From Now Until forever, morphedseveral times before it became the novella it is today, and when I finished it,and even after it was published, I had no intention of writing another Gasquetprince story. But there you go,‘life’ threw another curveball, at me this time, and hey presto, Prince Henri,the eldest prince and heir to his father’s throne demanded I write his storytoo. So His Chosen Bride has justcompleted final edits and should be released by Astraea Press in time forValentine’s Day. During thewriting of His Chosen Bride the royal twins decided to get in on the act, so Ihave two more stories to write for this series, *that started out as a singlebook*! I am also working on aRegency novel I began back in 2008. I know how it will end, now, but not sure yet how to get there.

KAREN: Tell the readers where they can find you:

SHERRY: My website is: http://www.sherrygloag.com

My Blog: http://sherrygloagtheheartofromance.blogspot.com/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0042QD6S6

FB: http://www.facebook.com/sherry.gloag

Twitter: http://twitter.com/SherryGloag

IAN: http://www.independentauthornetwork.com/sherry-gloag.html

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4277928.Sherry_Gloag

KAREN: Is there anything else you’d like to tellthe readers?

SHERRY:Writingis almost ‘magical’ to me, and I often get lost in what is happening to mycharacters. I love hearing from my readers.

KAREN: ***CONTEST: Now for the chance to win a pdf copy of: FROM NOW UNTIL FOREVER. Who's your favorite prince and why? Fairytale or real, it doesn't matter. Don't forget to leave your email so Sherry may contact you if you should win! Good Luck!!

Contest ends on Sat. Feb. 12th at 12:00 pm PST.

Purchase From Now Until Forever AT:

Astraea Press
AMAZON

Amazon UK
Barnes and Noble
Nook

Blurb– From Now Until Forever

For Prince Liam, families meant bad news, unwantedcommitments, and the loss of his personal freedom. Love spawned white picket fences, slippers at the hearthwith a wife and kids making demands, so why did those images disappear when hemet Melanie Babcot?

Melanie Babcot fought hard to escape the horrors of her youth and vowed toremain single and free, so when paid to protect Prince Liam from insurgents whydid her personal pledge fly out the window?

****

EXCERPT:
Liam Fitzwilliam Gasquet stared in amazement at theblooming patch of red milliseconds before the pain exploded in his arm. Sometrigger-happy idiot had fired in his direction. Indignation didn’t have time totake root before another bullet kicked the dust at his feet.

Not ‘trigger-happy’.

Intentional.

The rebels had found the fourth and youngest son of Jean-Phillipe Gasquet,ruler of the tiny kingdom adjacent to the Swiss border. When had theydiscovered his whereabouts?
With a reluctant sigh, he faced the truth of it. They hadn’t ‘found’ him atall. They’d followed him.

Bittersweet Romance Takes Readers By Leaps and Bounds

2012-01-23T00:01:00.001-08:00

CONTEST IS CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS CATHY N. ! THANK YOU READERS FOR JOINING US!
Laura Browning is the author of tantalizing paranormal tales and contemporary romance. No matter what genre she writes, her stories will keep you breathless. Her new release is BITTERSWEET and she's giving us the inside scoop about this intriguing tale. Let's give her a warm welcome. She's running a CONTEST so read on to find out how you may be a winner!

Karen: Let’s start by telling the readers a littleabout yourself.

Laura: Obviously, I love to write. It’s hard toremember a time when I haven’t been doing that. As a kid, if I wasn’t readingor writing, I was probably drawing. I studied Journalism in college and spent acouple of decades working in television news everywhere from Paducah, Kentuckyto Minneapolis, Minnesota. I changed careers several years back and now teachhigh school English.

Karen:Your new is release Bittersweet. What is thestory about? What inspired you to write the tale?

Laura: In addition to reading, writing and drawing,I’ve owned and ridden horses for most of my life. Bittersweet is the story of ashow jumper, Chris Stevenson and a veterinarian, Anna Barlow. They share apast, though only she’s aware of that. Chris was actually a secondary characterin my book, Winning Heart, one of those situations where the character demandeda story. Teaming a vet with him just felt like a good fit. As a horse owner, I’veworked with plenty of veterinarians over the years, most of whom are a verydedicated group of professionals.

Karen:Anna Barlow is heroine of the story. What isshe like? What is her first impression upon meeting the hero of the story ChrisStevenson again after so many years? What are her weaknesses? Strengths?

Laura: Although brilliant, Anna is a very insecureheroine in many ways. She’s not at all confident in her looks or herself as awoman. When she meets Chris again, one of the first things she realizes is thathe’s changed significantly from the playboy star of the horse show circuit.

Karen:What is Chris’ impression of Anna? What ishe like? What are his weaknesses? His strengths?

Laura: Chris’s first impression of Anna is that she’sone of those militant women’s rights types. Of course his assumption that thevet coming to his farm would be male kind of set her up to react that way.Chris is a man struggling to change. He’s taken a look at his life, not likedwhat he saw, and returned home to get away from the show circuit.

Karen:What do you find most rewarding aboutwriting?

Laura: That’s tough. Ienjoy creating and telling stories, but I also simply enjoy being able to getideas and information down on paper. It’s an expressive outlet, like drawing,that I think I would end up doing whether I ever made money at it or not.(Please don’t let my husband read this…lol)

Karen:What are your current projects and works inprogress?

Laura: I am the world’sworst multi-tasker, so I always have several WIPs. However, I am working on thenext story about the Barlow-Barrett family—this one’s about Seth, one of Anna’selder brothers.

Karen:Tell the readers where they can find you:

Laura: You can find me on my website: http://www.laurabrowningbooks.com;on my blog: www.laurabrowningbooks.blogspot.com; on facebook and on Twitter at LauraBrowning4.

Karen:Is there anything else you’d like to tellthe readers?

Laura: Contest Question: I do have a question for your readers. Withmore and more books coming out in ebook format, are you still a physical booklover or an ebook lover? I have to admit I’ve jumped into ebooks prettywhole-heartedly. I even have my mother, who’s in her mid-80s, using an ereader!

Laura: Contest Prize: For everyone who comments about ebooks vs. physical copies, I’ll enterthem in a drawing for a digital copy of BITTERSWEET.

Karen:. You can Purchase your own copy of Bittersweet at LyricalPress, Amazon,and Barnesand Noble.

Karen's Amazing Blog Event

2012-01-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

THE WINNER IS....DIVA VIXEN QUEEN! THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE EVENT!

If you're looking for the next post in the Amazing Blog Tour Event, you're at the right place. The inspiration for my steampunk western adventure, Storm Riders was Bodie, California. My aunt and uncle took us there one summer on our way home from a wonderful Tahoe vacation. I was eighteen and the visit is just as vivid in my mind as the day we walked the dusty streets. My cousin, Charlie and I explored every nook and cranny of the mining town. If there were ghosts to be found, we were determined to find them. lol Sadly, no ghosts appeared, but the memories were just as good if not better.

For this event, I'm giving away a pdf copy of Storm Riders. All you need to do is read the excerpt (*hint) and answer the question Ginger will post on the last day of the event. So have fun and follow the links for each day to discover a new Amazing Authors or find out what your favorite author has been up to.

Excerpt:

Samantha studied Ace, her gaze sliding over him in admiration. Long, lean, and rather handsome even with a few days growth on his chin. He wore a cowboy hat, but his long hair peeked out. The color gleamed a rich dark brown as the sun beat down on the thick strands.

His eyes shifted in a subtle manner as if he were looking for someone.

"You have little faith," she whispered. She raised her hand, tapping her cowboy hat with a subtle gesture, but it caught his attention. For a split second, a look of surprised recognition flitted across his features. He didn't believe she'd show. She gave him a slight nod. He faced forward then with his shoulders back, standing tall before the crowd that chanted his death song.

The hangman lifted McTavish's hat to place the black cloth over his face, but Ace moved his head away. The hangman shrugged with indifference. Ace had the right to face his accusers. The hangman draped the rope around McTavish's neck, placing his hat firmly back down on his head. Then he tightened the rope around his neck. The reverend continued his sermon to save Ace's soul rather than words to comfort him.

Samantha tapped her earpiece. "Are you ready, Denny?"

"Aren't I always, luv?"

Her lips curved. "Let's show these eegits the meaning of a real show, shall we?"

"Your words are pure poetry to my ears, Sammy."

Denny could shoot a flea off a dog and she wasn't exaggerating. Denny was the best sharpshooter at the SR Institute. She won her share of medals too, but horses were her specialty. She grew up on a ranch, spending more time on a horse than anywhere else. She would be able to outrun whoever tried to come after them.

She kept her eyes on the hangman's hand. The reverend closed his book and gave a nod. The hangman's hand pressed the lever and the prisoner dropped. At the same time a shot rang out, severing the rope before it could constrict around McTavish's neck and break it.

Her horse tensed, but she stroked his neck and leaned forward. "You're fine, boy. Stay with me."

People screamed and ducked. Deputy Goodman who stood at the foot of the stairs drew his gun, looking for the man responsible for the interruption.

He kept the patrons hopping with shots flying over their heads. Deputy Chester couldn't leave the scaffold, the way the bullets flew at his feet, making him dance a jig.

Bless you, Denny Randeli.

Samantha didn't waste time and rammed her feet into the horse's flank, sending them flying forward through the crowd of scrambling people. McTavish looked stunned, but he was already working to free his hands.

"Need some help, cowboy." She tipped back her hat and smiled. She pulled her knife out and he stumbled back. "Don't be stupid. Let me cut the ropes."

"Who are ye, lass?" His thick Scottish brogue laced his words.

"I'm the woman who's going to save your arse. Now turn around and let me cut you free."

He didn't hesitate now, whirling around and giving her his backside. A nice backside, too, but now wasn't the time to admire it. Keeping the horse steady, she leaned down and slashed the binds free from his hands. She shoved the knife back in its holder and offered her hand.
He turned to stare at her. In the bright of day, his eyes stood out like clear green gems with no other pigment clouding the color.

"Come on." She thrust out her gloved hand.

His grip was firm as he swung up behind her.

"Hold on," she told him. "Hiyah!" The horse bolted at the command and the sudden slam of her boot heel against its flank. She maneuvered around the scrambling crowd with ease and jumped over obstacles in her way.

"St. Brigid in Heaven, you're an angel." McTavish clung to her, his hands around her waist—warm and large, the heat from him sent a strange feeling to the pit of her stomach.
She shook her head. It was the thrill of the escape, not how McTavish felt against her. She tried to convince herself with no avail.

"Do you have the package?" Denny's voice echoed in her ear, making her focus.

"Got him and we're on the right trail to lose anyone who follows. We'll stop at the first hideout and see if there's trouble. If it looks clear, we'll meet you back at the safe house tonight.

"Be safe," Denny told her.

"Back at you."

"Who are ye talkin' to, darlin'?" McTavish leaned his head next to hers, his breath whispering against her cheek.

"None of your concern, cowboy. Just keep holding on. We have a rough ride ahead of us if we want to cover our tracks."

She thought she heard him chuckle. "Oh, doonae fash yerself. I willnae let go."

I hope enjoyed the except!

For the next trek on the blog tour visit Anna K. Lanier tomorrow at: http://annakathrynlanier.blogspot.com/

Tweet the Event with the hashtag: #amazingauthorevent

Here's the list of Amazing Blog Event Participating Authors. Each Blog post goes live the day indicated and will be there for you to go back and revisit throughout the blog tour. See you there!!

Jan. 12. Caroline Clemmons (historical & contemporary genre fiction)

Jan. 13. Beth Trissel (historical & light paranormal romance)

Jan. 14. Roseanne Dowell (romance)

Jan. 15. Cathie Dunn (historical fiction & romantic adventure)

Jan. 16. Maggie Toussaint (romance & mystery with a Southern dash)

Jan. 17. Patsy Parker (paranormal fantasy romance)

Jan. 18. S.G. Rogers (fantasy, romantic fantasy, young adult fantasy)

Jan. 19. Linda LaRoque (western contemporary & time travel romance)

Jan. 20 Jacquie Rogers (dragons, princesses & romance)

Jan. 21. Karen Nutt (paranormal romance)

Jan. 22. Anna Kathryn Lanier (sensual contemporary & historical westerns)

Jan. 23. Barbara Edwards (riveting romance with an edge)

Jan. 24. Ginger Simpson (historical & contemporary romance)

Remember on the last day of the tour, Ginger Simpson is going to post some fun and easy questions you must answer for the chance to win free reads. (Hint: there will be a link to each author’s post so you can quickly double check).

We’re looking forward to meeting you.

Author Claire Ashgrove Shares: A Day in the Life

2012-01-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

Karen: Claire Ashgrove writes contemporary, paranormal, and historical romance that are sure to please. KMN Books is just one of the stops on her Blog Tour, so make sure to drop by the other blogs, too. Not only is she promoting her new release, Immortal Hope, she's also giving away two Amazon Gift Certificates to two lucky winners. (More details below so read on and enjoy!)

A Day in the Life by Claire Ashgrove

I hate talking about myself. Ask our gracious host – when I sent over the material fortoday, I remarked the bio could be included or casually forgotten, and itwouldn’t matter to me. Now, I liketalking about my books, but me? Nah. I’ll pass if given theopportunity.

That said, I have been asked a lot lately to share bits and pieces of me. So, to appease that call, I’m sharing aglimpse of a day in the life.

6:30am – I make a mad dash out of bed, cursing over thesnooze I somehow hit twice (because, of course, I’ve been up until at least 2the night before), race into the kitchen and scrounge through the cupboards forsomething for my sons to eat.

6:40am – With hot water ready for hot cereal, or the toasterfired up for waffles, I race back up the stairs, trip over a dog or two enroute, and wake up my eldest demi-demon for school. Amidst much, much,fussing (Gee, wonder where he gets that from.) we get dressed. About 20 minutes later, we’re out thedoor for school.

8:00am – My eldest is in school now, and I sit down at thecomputer to wade through a sea of emails. I delete anything solicitous and answer anything that’s personallyaddressed. I check status on themanuscripts I free-lance edit, and line up my work for that evening.

10:00am – I’ve downed at least three cups of coffee andmanaged to change my clothes somehow. Now it’s off to build websites for my day-job for a few hours. I chat with my boss a bit, tell himanything new on the publishing front, and fire up Twitter so I can keep intouch with the world while I’m getting cozy with code.

3:00pm – Time to pick up the eldest from school, line him upfor an after school snack, then wade through much complaining about howplaytime is far more fun than farm chores. We eventually finish the theatrics, (he should reallyconsider acting!), and head off to take care of horses.

7:00pm – all the menial things like chores and dinner arefinished. The demi-demons arefighting in the playroom, the electric train is whistling around the track,Alpha and Omega are on the television. Now, I get to do for myself a bit. I’ll work in a chapter’s worth of words before I can’t take the noiseanymore and bribe them with some sort of snack.

9:00pm – One demi-demon down for bed, the eldest is nowsitting at the table beside me, practicing his letters while I’m on my secondchapter of words. This one takes abit longer than the other, as I’m routinely polled about letter shape and drawninto animated conversations about matchbox cars and wrecks and tow-trucks aswell.

10:30pm – The children are fast asleep, the dogs have allbeen out, the cat’s come out of hiding and is sitting on my lap, and the petmouse is on the dining room table to entertain me when I’m stuck on a thought. Now it’s my time. Coffee is fresh. Snacks are nearby. If I can just keep the phone fromringing now that the whole world knows my house is quiet enough to talk…

1:00am – Time to call it quits. The dogs are passed out, the cat is now drooling in my lapin sleep, the mouse is burrowed back in his den. My house is silent. My eyelids are drooping. I’d really love to finish out this scene, but if I wait a moment longer,I’ll wake up cursing again.

Somehow it all works. Some days I know I’ve done a whole lot but have little physical evidenceof such. Others, I can manage toget five chapters written.

No, I don’t require a silent household to work. But I’ve found I work much betterwithout the interrupts. I can tuneout the noise, but “Mom!” isn’t so easy to ignore. Even if I know it’s being screeched only because someonetook a toy away, or the other demi-demon drove his matchbox car on thebrother’s imaginary road.

What about all of you – when you sit down to read, or write,or engage in whatever hobby you might enjoy, do you have to have utter quiet tofocus?

~Claire

www.claireashgrove.com

www.toristclaire.com

Twitter: @ClaireAshgrove

Clairewill be giving away a $25 Amazon.com gift certificate to one randomly drawncommenter during the tour, and a second $25.00 Amazon.com gift certificate to asecond randomly drawn commenter at the end of the tour. Be sure to follow the tour and comment;the more you comment, the better your chances of winning! Click the Blog Tourbadge for a complete list of blog stops.

BLURB:

CENTURIES AGO,

Templar knights defied thearchangels and unearthed the copper scroll, revealing the gates to hell. Cursedfor their forbidden act, they forever roam the earth protecting mankind fromevil. But darkness stalks them, and battles they fight bring them ever-closerto eternal damnation. One promise remains to give them salvation – the returnof the seraphs.

Embittered by his purpose,Merrick du Loire must honor an ancient pact and bring peace to his cousin’ssoul. When he stumbles upon history professor Anne MacPherson, he discovers shepossesses a sacred artifact that marks her as a seraph. Duty demands he setaside his personal quest and locate the knight she’s fated to heal. As hestruggles with conflicting oaths, Anne arouses buried hope and sparks forbiddendesire that challenges everything he’s sworn to uphold.

Anne has six weeks to completeher thesis on the Knights Templar. When Merrick takes her to the Templarstronghold, he presents her with all she needs—and awakens a soul-deep ache, healone can soothe. Yet loving Merrick comes with a price. If she admits she'sdestined for him, her gift of foresight predicts his death.

EXCERPT:

Hetook a deep fortifying breath at Anne’s door. A small portion of his souldemanded he let himself inside and take the liberties he would have enjoyed hadshe wandered into his life nine hundred years ago. Whilst he shared theresidence with many others, the simple fact remained, she resided in his house.Once he had dreamed of such a circumstance. Now the fantasy only created abitter taste in his mouth.

Resigninghimself to reality, he knocked twice upon her door.

Sheanswered as he lifted his hand for the third, concurrent rap. Briefly, shestared, bewildered. Then, her gaze fell to his armload of supplies, and herporcelain features lit with such delight a fist clamped around Merrick’s heart.

“Mythings,” she murmured as he moved past her. “Oh, Merrick, you brought myradio.”

Thewhimsical quality of her voice, the gratitude that turned her words into music,swelled his chest. Damnation. She had turned him as soft as butter. This trialof loyalty would surely be the death of him.

Heset the bags down, unwilling to look at her for fear she would see how deeplyshe affected him. “I brought what I thought you might desire. Should you findsomething missing, we shall discuss it in the morn.”

“Oh.You’re leaving again?”

Hisback to her, he closed his eyes. The touch of disappointment that fringed herquestion disturbed the accursed hollowness in his gut. “Aye.”

Beforehe could fully shrug off the thick straps digging into his shoulder, her handsettled against the small of his back. “I’d hoped you might stay with me for awhile,” she murmured.

Herfingertips slid up his back, warming his skin. As he righted himself, sheducked under his elbow and looped her arms around his neck. Stepping in close,Anne pressed her body to his.

Everythinginside Merrick coiled tight. Her warmth, the feel of her breath upon his neck,the perfume in her hair, she overwhelmed him in a heartbeat. He battled withthe urge to slide his arms around her waist and draw her even closer. Thelonging to capture her mouth and drink from her honeyed lips assailed hissenses with the force of a battering ram. Like a strangled man desperate forone gulp of fresh air, he disentangled himself from her embrace and took a stepaway.

Heknew only one way to combat the fierce desire she awakened. “I must fighttonight.”

About the Author:

Claire Ashgrove has been writing since her early teens andmaintained the hobby for twenty years before deciding to leap into theprofessional world. Her first contemporary novel, Seduction's Stakes, sold toThe Wild Rose Press in 2008, where she continues to write steamy, sexy storiesfor the Champagne and Black Rose lines. Adding to these critically acclaimedcontemporaries, Claire’s paranormal romance series, The Curse of the Templars,debuts with Tor in January 2012. For those who prefer the more erotic side ofromance, she also writes for Berkley Heat under the pen name Tori St. Claire.

Claire lives on a small farm in Missouri with her twotoddler sons, fifteen horses, four cats, and five dogs. In her “free” time, sheenjoys cooking, winning at rummy, studying ancient civilizations, and spendingquiet moments with her family, including the critters. She credits her successto her family's constant support and endless patience.

To learn more about Claire, visit her at:

www.claireashgrove.com

www.toristclaire.com

Twitter: @ClaireAshgrove

Romantic Suspense Can Be DEADLY!

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Karen: Vonnie Hughes sets the stage for her intriguing novels with romantic suspense that will keep you at the edge of your seat. She's here today to tell us about her new release, Lethal Refuge. Let's give her a warm welcome. She's running a contest on her website, too. So read on to find out how you may enter.

Take it away, Vonnie!

Vonnie: I’m a New Zealander living in Australia. I love animals, reading,jog/walking and the gym.

I wrote short stories and poems when I wasvery young (many of which got published) but did not begin novel writing untilabout six years ago. I write Regencies and romantic suspense novels, novellasand short stories.

My earliest book is still available fromRobert Hale Ltd. It’s called COMING HOMEand is about a soldier and a nurse, thrown together during the Napoleonic wars,who find more danger on their return to England than they ever did on theIberian Peninsula. This hardback can be purchased from http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/book/9780709090052/Coming-HomeIt has just become available as an e-book, too, from my Amazon page

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Vonnie+Hughes&x=18&y=20

THESECOND SON, is available as an e-book from MusaPublishing or from my Amazon page. It’s a prequel to COMING HOME. Guilt wracks a man who stands to inherits amarquessate when the brother he’s always loathed dies. He turns to MargueriteNinian, a young disabled woman for emotional support, and along the way,loneliness turns to love.

Mynew release is LETHAL REFUGE. It is a romanticsuspense set in New Zealand. Célie Francis has had to be strong-minded andindependent ever since she was abused and deserted as a child. But when shewitnesses the aftermath of a murder, she is tossed into the witness protectionprogram (the Unit) and must comply with their edicts if she is to survive.Brand Turner, the police psychologist for the Unit, tries to gain her trust,but Célie, helpless and rudderless, cannot quite bring herself to trust him.When the killer seems to anticipate their every move and it becomes apparent hehas inside information, who can Célie turn to?

I wrote it because many years ago, theopening scene happened to me when I was out for a jog in the early morning mistover the tops of the cliffs in north Auckland. I will never forget that creepyfeeling of being followed by someone you could hear, but couldn’t see throughthe fog.

Karen: What are your hero and heroine of the story like?

Vonnie: Yes, well, Célie is not exactly sweetnesspersonified. She’s tough because she’s had to be, and no way is she going tolet a bunch of policemen tell her howto live. So of course she almost gets caught by the murderer who has alreadykilled her two best friends. Then she has to rely on Brand Turner tohelp her, even though at first she writes him off as an ineffectiveintellectual with no life experience. Oh boy is she wrong. Brand has some verygood ideas up his sleeve. He’s good at things that have nothing to do withevading murderers too.

Brandis not quite the opposite of Célie, but almost. He’snot deterred by her snarl and fire because at their first meeting he recognisesthe fear that has boxed Célie into a corner; not just a fear of the murderer,but also the fear of an independent person forced to rely on others. But he hasto be careful. His instincts are to protect her, not something Ms Francis can tolerate. He has already had one womanwalk away telling him she “needs space.” But he’s secure enough to ignoreCélie’s little jabs, and when they realise that someone is feeding informationto the murderer from either the Unit itself or from the police team seconded tothe Unit, they team up together and go on the run

Karen: Whatdo you find most rewarding about writing?

Vonnie: Some days, nothing at all. It’s a long,hard slog just getting the words down. Once the words are done and I slip intoedit mode, then I enjoy the writing.That’s when I add the layers that really count. Sometimes it involves twists tothe plot; other times it’s a foible of characterisation that makes a characterdo something unexpected. That’s what I find rewarding.

Karen: What are yourcurrent projects?

Vonnie: On January 27 I have another Regency beingreleased by Musa as an e-book. It’s called MR.MONFORT’S MARRIAGE and is hotter than my usual Regencies. Well, they aremarried so I can really go to town! Here’s the blurb:

Matthew Monfort has two excellent reasonsfor loathing members of the ton, but thanks to his father's machinations hefinds himself inveigled into offering for Lady Verity Tristan. Anyway it's timehe married and she's...well, she's different; in fact she's quitedelightful...and intelligent...and sweet...but she needn't think she's going towin him over.

I’m also three-quarters of the way througha Regency novella about two sisters and halfway through another romanticsuspense set in New Zealand. This time it’s about one of their Armed Offenders’Squads (i.e. Swat team). I’ve just completed several articles for various blogsand hey, I think I need a break!

Karen: Where can the readers find you?

Vonnie: My website is www.vonniehughes.com

Myblogsite is www.vonniehughes.blogspot.com

Email me on vonniehughes@gmail.com

***Contest info: On my blogsite at present there’s a contestto win a free paperback copy of LETHAL REFUGE.

Karen: Remember, if you want to buy any of Vonnie'sbooks just go to her Amazon page:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Vonnie+Hughes&x=18&y=20

Vonnie: Thanks for having me, Karen and everyone.

Karen: Thank you, Vonnie for joining us today. I wish you the best.

Jennifer Jakes Takes to the High Seas!

2012-01-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Contest is now Closed. The winner is Hotch12! Congratulations!!

Jennifer Jakes pens sensual and seductive historical romances that will sweep you back in time. She's here to tell us about her new release, Twice in a Lifetime. Come aboard mateys. Ther'd be pirates.

***Pirate booty: One lucky winner will receive an e-book copy of TWICE in a LIFETIME. Drawing will take place on Sat Jan. 14th. at 12:00 pm PST. Read on and find out how to enter.

Karen: Let's start by telling the readers a little about yourself.

Jennifer: After trying several careers—everything from a beauticianto a dump truck driver—I finally returned to my first love, writing.Maybe it was all those Clint Eastwood movies I watched growing up, but in myopinion there is no better read than a steamy western historical.

Married to my very own hero, I live on fifteen acresalong with two beautiful daughters, three spoiled cats, three hyper dogs andone fat rabbit.

During the summer I do Civil War re-enactingand have found it a great research tool, not to mention I have continuedappreciation for my microwave and hot water heater.

Karen: Your new release is Twice in a Lifetime.What inspired you to write the tale?

Jennifer: It was just one of those ideas thatwouldn’t go away! J I had the thought of amodern, kick-butt woman dumped onto a pirate ship. So I had to figure out whoshe was and why she was there.

Karen: Why did you decide to self-publish thistale? Who created your lovely book cover? It’s stunning.

Jennifer: I think in this everchanging publishing world, it’s smart to explore all avenues. A novella seemedthe perfect way to try self-publishing.

And Kim Killion of HOT DAMN Designs did mycover. I am so happy with how it turned out.

Karen: Isabella Douglas is the heroine of thestory. What is she like? How did she end up in 1768 and aboard a Caribbeanpirate ship?

Jennifer: Izzy is a woman who acts tough as nails on the outside – she is astuntwoman – but is scared of being hurt again on the inside. As the storyopens, Izzy is opening her divorce papers and agonizing over the decision ofwhether to sign them. Did I mention it’s her birthday? Anyway, a wish to haveher “old Ian back” goes awry and she finds herself in 1768 aboard a shipcaptained by her husband.

Karen I really enjoy historical time travels andthis story has definitely caught my attention.

The hero of the story is Captain IanDouglas. Tell the readers about him. What is he like? What is his firstimpression of Isabella?

Jennifer: He is someone who never, ever gives up on those heloves. Trouble is, he doesn’t remember Izzy and thinks she is an insane womanclaiming to be his wife.

Karen: What do you find most rewarding aboutwriting?

Jennifer: I think crafting the story and once I’m finished, seeing what I’dimagined, played out on paper ( or screen).

Karen: What are your current projects and works inprogress?

Jennifer: I’m working on a novel set in 1898 Alaska during the gold rush,titled ALASKAN HEAT.

Karen: What genre inspires your writing?

Jennifer: Historicalall the way. And for the most part, western historical. But a girl needs apirate every once in awhile. LOL

Karen: Tell the readers where they can find you:

Jennifer: Mywebsite is http://www.jenniferjakes.com

My blog is http://authorjenniferjakes.blogspot.comand I have man candy every Monday.

I’m on FaceBook and GoodReads as JenniferJakes and on Twitter as @erotichistory

Karen: Now for the contest. Answer Jennifer's question and be entered to win an e-book copy of TWICE in a LIFETIME. Don't forget to leave your email so we may contact you if you should win.

****Jennifer: Contest question: Are you a bigger fans of pirate romance orcowboy romance?

To Purchase your own copy of: TWICE IN A LIFETIME for only .99cents at Amazon http://tinyurl.com/7gvanj6B&N http://tinyurl.com/6vvgrzf

Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/108621and ARe http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-twiceinalifetime-646657-155.html

Karen: Jennifer, Thank you so much for coming by and sharing your new release with us. I wish you the best success!

Tantalizing Office Affair...Oh My!

2012-01-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

CONTEST IS CLOSED. THE WINNER OF LOUISA'S CONTEST IS: HOTCH12. CONGRATULATIONS! LOUISA WILL EMAIL YOU WITH THE DETAILS.

Karen: LouisaMasters is here to share her new release, Inter-Office Relations. What if youhad the chance to act out your daydream with the gorgeous guy you secretly had acrush on? Louisa’s tantalizing tale will make you wish you had. Let’s give hera warm welcome. Comments or questions are always welcomed. There’s a contest, too.So read on and find out how you could be a winner.

Karen: Let’s startby telling the readers a little about yourself.

Louisa: I'm Australian bybirth and inclination, and yes, right now it's summer and I'll be spending NewYear's at the beach J

I've worked in many different industries, and learned a lot from mycolleagues. You'll see some of that in my books!

It's easy to keep me happy—a good book, chocolate, wine, maybe a bubblebath...mmm. I'm still looking for the perfect man to rub my feet while I'm inthe bath.

Karen: Your newrelease is Inter-Office Relations. What inspired you to write the tale?

Louisa: I had a crush on aguy at work—this is when I still worked in the corporate world—and I didn’twant to act on it because we worked quite closely together. I did have theoccasional daydream about dragging him off to the photocopy room, and that mademe wonder...what would he say if I just asked, out of the blue?

Karen: Jeannie Priceis the heroine of the story. What is she like? Why does she have Tim Harding onher To-Do-List?

Louisa: Jeannie is afairly conservative woman. She's independent and loyal, and she has a repressednaughty side. She's been attracted to Tim since she met him, but didn't want todisrupt the workplace balance by asking him out. Once she quits, that's nolonger an issue...

Karen: What is Timlike? What does he think of Jeannie and her proposal? What does he think abouther just walking away after their tryst?

Louisa: Tim barelyhesitates between Jeannie's proposition and his rush for the conference room!Check out the first scene here.He's had a thing for Jeannie for ages, and when she walks away, it devastateshim. His mission: convince her they're worth a chance.

Karen: What do youfind most rewarding about writing?

Louisa: The endings. Ilove happy endings, and I love closing the story knowing that my characters arehappy. That's why I started writing originally, because I hated other people'sendings!

Karen: What are yourcurrent projects and works in progress?

Louisa: I have three WIPsat the moment, one story sold, and one shopping with a couple of publishers.

One Night in a Bar, due mid-2012 from Total-e-Bound, is about Karen, whomourns the loss of her job and her boyfriend in a bar. A bit tipsy, she picksup a guy who's the complete opposite of her usual type, and they have sex inthe alley behind the bar. The next morning, she's mortified, and vows to put itbehind her...and then her one-hour stand turns up as a client at her new job.

Diving in Deep is my first attempt at m/m, only because I don't dothings by halves, it's m/m/m. Geeky Cameron decides to re-invent himself with athree month trip to far-north Australia. He meets Jake and Troy, co-owners of areef tour and snorkel company, when he goes out on their boat for a day-trip.He falls in love with scuba diving...and with his instructors.

I'm working on the sequel to One Night in a Bar, about Karen's bestfriend Mandy, who picked the bar that caused Karen to lose her inhibitions. I'malso trying my hand at a space opera about a professional companion, andanother m/m starring a tennis player. I try to post updates on my site www.louisamasters.com

Karen: What genreinspires your writing?

Louisa: Romance. I've beenreading it since I was eleven and first worked out how to sneak my mother'sbooks from under her nose. I became an expert at smuggling books into the houseand finding hiding spots. Then I turned sixteen and Mum told me she'd known allalong.

I'm also an epic fantasy fan, but only if there are happy endings!

I'll read anything once, except horror. It gives me nightmares.

Karen: Tell thereaders where they can find you:

Louisa: Check out mywebsite www.louisamasters.com.auand you can email me anytime at louisa@louisamasters.com

Purchase your own copy of Inter-Office Relations at:

Louisa’s Contest: I'm selecting one luckycommenter to receive a title of their choice from Karen's backlist. You haveuntil midnight on the 5^th before I make my choice!

**(Don’t forget toleave your email so Louisa may contact you if you should win.)

Karen: Thank you somuch for coming by and sharing your stories with us. I wish you the very bestfor 2012!

Preditor and Editors is at it again for the Best...

2012-01-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

Preditors and Editors is at it again for best books, authors, websites, book covers and publishers...

Come on by and cast your vote.

I have a few there if you would be so kind as to cast a vote. Make sure you confirm your vote when

Preditor and Editors sends you an email or it won't count. Thanks so much! Western Trail Blazers is up for best publisher, too!

Lucca: Warriors for the Light http://critters.org/predpoll/novelsf.shtml
Storm Rider: http://critters.org/predpoll/shortstorysf.shtml
Western Trail Blazers
http://critters.org/predpoll/ebookpublisher.shtml

The Holiday's Over. What Now?

2011-12-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

Miriam Newman is the author of heartfelt historical romances and adventure-filled science fiction tales. She's joining us today to share her new releases from DCL Publications. Let's give her a warm welcome. She'd love to hear from you. Feel free to leave a comment or ask a question.

A CHRISTMAS THOUGHT by Miriam Newman

So, OK, the big holiday is over. The presents are opened, the dinner eaten and perhaps yourtree is a little lopsided if, like me, you have a puppy. Well, she’s in housetraining, so itcould be worse. I count myblessings that she’s a “she” and not prone to lift a leg. My last puppy chewed up all theChristmas ornaments along with the wrapping paper, cards and ribbon allcarefully stored in my attic. Ieven tell the story in one of my books, Dancer Dog.

Another of my books is Season of Love, a Christmas anthologybrought out a couple of years ago by DCL Publications. There are stories by Kate Hofman, BillHaworth, Susan Blexrud and me. They’re all good stories, otherwise we wouldn’t have included them, butfor the purposes of this post I’m going to consider my own. For the first time, at my publisher’srequest, I tried writing science fiction. I hadn’t done it before and was pleasantly surprised at the outcome,Peace on New Earth.

In my story, colonists from a future Earth have left theirovercrowded planet for the freedom and challenges of life on the planetMegasta. That life is literallyhanging by a thread. Despite theirmassive technological achievements, the colonists have still been outwitted byMother Nature which has brought along their ancient, inherent susceptibility tothe measles virus which has spread to the indigenous population like a virtualplague. The natives, a nomadicpeople not too far past their planetary equivalent of our Stone Age, arebeginning to die and they don’t plan to go down peacefully. In a last ditch attempt to preservelives and fragile peace, med-techno Janelle attempts to successfully immunize atribal chieftain, Aron, who has offered himself for the experiment in hopes ofsaving his people. This is aromance, after all, and of course you can guess at the outcome. World peace and a love affair. Sappy stuff, perhaps, but after all itis the Season of Love.

Aron is a sensitive and intelligent man even if he doesstill like a good spear for bringing down wildlife. He is impressed by the technology of the colonists,believing from what he sees that they are capable of almost anything. So when Janelle tells him that sheenvisions a future in which their people will live together in peace, he responds,“If you see it, I believe it may be so.” Such a simplistic statement…or is it? If we see peace, can we not achieve it? We have “seen” the atomic bomb, thefirst Moon landing, the cures for major diseases—things no one a hundred yearsago thought were even remotely possible. If we SEE peace clearly enough and with a powerful enough vision, can wefulfill Aron’s simplistic yet profound belief that seeing a thing can make itso? In this Season of Love, whatdo you think?

Fantasy poetry driven by myths and legends has been Miriam’spassion for as long as she can remember. She was published in poetry before catching the romance writingbug. She brings that background toher writing along with a lifelong addiction to horses, an 18 year career invarious areas of psychiatric social services and many trips to Ireland, whereshe nurtures her muse. Herpublished works range from contemporary fantasy romance to fantasy historical,futuristic, science fiction and historical romance. Currently she lives in rural Pennsylvania with a “motleycrew” of rescue animals. You canview her books at www.miriamnewman.com.

Merry Christmas From KMN Books!

2011-12-25T08:31:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Author Sarah McNeal and her Supernatural Christmas

2011-12-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

The winner of the 2011 Christmas Anthology is...Calisa Rose. Congratulation!

Karen: I'm thrilled to have Sarah McNeal here today to share her Christmas tale, Gifts of an After Life that's featured in the 2011 Christmas Anthology and her long awaited sequel to Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride, For the Love ofBanjo! She's also giving away an e-book copy of the Anthology to one lucky reader. Just in time for the Christmas Stocking!

Let’s start with you telling us a little aboutyourself:

Sarah: I live in NorthCarolina with my four-legged kids, Liberty (cat) and Lily (GoldenRetriever). Both of my pets arerescue animals.

Until 2009, I workedas an RN in critical care, the last 17 years in the ER. I took an early retirement so that Icould devote all of my time into writing. I was lucky enough to have worked for a hospital that had a pensionplan.

I’ve yearned to be awriter since I was 9 years old. I’ve had quite a few ups-and-downs on my path to becoming published but,with the help of writing classes, writer mentors and dogged persistence, Ipublished my first short story back in 2005.

Karen: Gifts from the Afterlife is your new releasefeatured in the 2011 Christmas Anthology. Why don’t you tell us a little aboutyour story. What inspired you to write it?

Sarah: Gifts From theAfterlife is about a young woman whois facing the Christmas season completely alone. Her flagging spirit andloneliness undermine her desire to celebrate anything, let aloneChristmas. But Lydia is about tohave a life-altering encounter with an angel, a few ghosts and a childhoodsweetheart.

Karen: Tell us about Lydia Sinclair. Why has Christmaslost its meaning to her?

Sarah: Lydia lost herfather and sister in an auto accident years ago. For most of her life, she has celebrated the holidays withher very loving mother. After therecent death of her mother, Lydia faces her first Christmas alone. The prospects of spending Christmasalone has depleted her of all joy.

Karen: You have an angel and ghosts featured in yourstory. Do you believe in angels? Ghosts? What fascinates you about theseentities?

Sarah: Mostly, I’m acynic. I doubt many of the claimsby people that they’ve seen ghosts or angels but I feel confident that theyexist in our world.

I think I could livequite well without having an encounter with a ghost but the thought ofwitnessing the presence of one is very intriguing. An angel is another matter altogether. I would love to meet an angel, talkwith the angel and learn something only an angel could tell me.

Karen: You have an upcoming release, For the Love ofBanjo, a sequel to Harmonica Joe’s Reluctant Bride. I loved this story andcan’t wait for Banjo’s tale. Will you share a snippet with us?

Sarah: Deceit standsbetween Banjo Wilding’s love for Maggie O’Leary and his search for the fatherhe never knew.

Blurb:

Banjo Wilding wearsa borrowed name and bears the scars and reputation of a lurid past. To earn the right to ask for MargaretO’Leary’s hand, he must find his father and make something of himself.

Margaret O’Leary hasloved Banjo since she was ten years old but standing between her and Banjo ispride, Banjo’s mysterious father and the Great War.

Will either of themfind happiness?

Excerpt:

In one graceful movement, he dismounted thepinto then stepped to the porch where Maggie stood with unrestrained tears thatflowed down her cheeks. Banjoswept her into his arms and kissed her. The kiss wasn’t his brotherly, friendly peck on the cheek. He kissed her with a slow burning needand ran his tongue along the groove of her lips then slipped inside.

He tasted of coffee and mint. Maggie reached up to weave her armsaround his neck. She stepped onher tiptoes to better reach him and taste him. Her heart raced and heat rushed hungry waves of yearninginto places in her body she never knew existed as she responded to hisexplorations with her own. If onlyshe could slip into his pocket and follow him wherever he went. She wanted to become the marrow in hisbones, to always be a part of him.

Just when she thought he would take her toher room and make love to her as she had asked, the kiss ended. Banjo bent his head his rough cheekrasped against hers. The fragranceof him, a combination of horse, pine and crisp snow, caressed her senses. He slipped his hand into her hair andgently rubbed the tender skin of her neck where her blood pulsed beneath histhumb.

His mouth so close to her ear she felt thewarm moisture of his breath as he spoke his last words. She would never forget them, not aslong as she lived. Breathless fromthe kiss, he said, “Don’t forget me. Write to me every day and I’ll write back. You are the star in my sky and my compass home. I’ll come back, if it’s the last thingI do, I will come back. I swearit.”

Karen: What do you find most rewarding about writing?

Sarah: I love coming upwith new story ideas. I keep awriter’s journal with me everywhere I go and jot down things I see and hear(like a little voyeur, LOL) to use in stories later. In this crazy world where nothing is certain, writing is theone thing where I say who lives, who dies and who falls in love with whom.

Karen: What are your current projects and works inprogress?

Sarah: The newly revisededition of The Violin is about to bereleased by Rebecca Vickery Publishing.

I 'm working on theplot for the next Hazard story. Robin Pierpont, an English immigrant from the book, For Love of Banjo, falls in love with one of Lola and Joe’s girls.

I also have aparanormal, The Light of Valmora,that I am presently submitting to publishers. I am working on another book inthis series, Silent dancer, where acursed violinist falls in love with a deaf woman.

Karen: What genre inspires your writing?

Sarah: Besides romance, Ilove stories with a bit of mystery woven into them. I am particularly drawn to time travel and paranormal.

Karen: Tell the readers where they can find you:

Sarah: My website:

http://www.sarahmcneal.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?&new_box_added_id=7100654162#

Moonlight Romance Authors: http://moonlightromanceauthors.blogspot.com/?zx=e8f0512666a5c2c

Sarah’s Provocative Ponderings: http://pasttheprint.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Starcriter

Karen: Is there anything else you’d like to tell thereaders?

Sarah: Readers arewonderful treasures. I hope thatmy stories entertain, inspire and live in the hearts of readers who honor me byreading my stories.

Karen: Contest: All you need to do is answer this question: What is your favorite Christmas story? It could be a book, movie or TV show. One lucky commenter will be chosen on Friday, December 23rd to win a e-book copy of 2011 Christmas Collection. Good Luck!

Sarah, thank you so much for sharing with us today. I wish your the best success. I can't wait to read your new releases.

What's on Your Virtual Bookshelf?

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

The winner of Markee Anderson's $10 Amazon Card giveaway is Desitheblonde. Congratulations!!

KAREN: The very talented Markee Anderson is here today with holiday gifts for everyone. Read on and find out about her virtual Christmas bookshelf. What's your reading pleasure?

Let's give her a warm welcome.
Ask her questions or leave her a comment for a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card, too.

MARKEE: Have I got a deal for you!

Ihave more than one pen name, but today, I’m coming to you as Markee Anderson(see all my pen names on www.sweettalebooks.com).

Ilove to write books, and I think Christmas books are some of my favorites. I noticed there are a lot of greatChristmas books out there, but I couldn’t find just one place to peruse thosebooks.

So,I started a virtual Christmas bookshelf at http://www.sweettalebooks.com/christmasbooks.html. It's a one-stop Christmas shop, and Iencourage you to check it out! Itcontains books of every genre and every heat level!

*** FOR ONE WEEK only, on this blog, I’moffering coupons for the following new Christmas books I recently published:

'ADream to Share' by Markee Anderson:

Genre: contemporary romance (fantasy…containscupids)

Link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/105446

Coupon: LH36A good until 12/17/2011

'Can Natalie Come Out to Play?' by Andie Alexander

Genre: murder mystery (paranormal…contains afriendly ghost)

Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/105447

Coupon: CF66G good until 12/17/2011

'Finding a Heart of Peace' by Eryn Grace

Genre: Christian romance

(warning…I cry everytime I read this thing, but it has a happy ending)

Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/104054

Coupon:DX44V gooduntil 12/17/2011

I hope you enjoy! ***

Remember, ONE lucky commenter, I'm giving away a$10 Amazon gift card!

Merry Christmas!!!

MarkeeAnderson

Karen: Thank you so much for offering your wonderful books. I hope you have a Merry Christmas, too!

TEXAN AUTHOR SHARES HER Romantic Tale

2011-12-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

A lover of history and all things Texan, let's give Celia Yeary a warm welcome. She's here today tell us about her heartwarming new release, The Stars at Night, a new Romantic story to fall in love with.

KAREN : Why don’tyou start by telling the readers a little about yourself.

CELIA: Currently, I live in Central Texas with my husbandof many years. I wouldn't live anywhere else, at least not right now. During myworking years, I taught high school students biology in a private militaryboarding school. That was the best thing that happened to me, outside the loveof my family. I began writing in 2004, so I've climbed a very steep hill to getwhere I am today. Life is good, life is fun, life is full of adventures, and Itry to portray that in my stories.

KAREN: Tell usabout your story, The Stars at Night. What is the story about? What inspired you to write it? How muchresearch went into writing the tale?

CELIA: The Stars at Night is the first contemporary novelI wrote. When I submitted it to a publisher, the editor wrote back--with arejection--that while the story was good, it read like a textbook. Well, I onlywrote science research papers before, so that was no surprise. I kept it safefor three years but dragged it out to see what I'd learned.

It's about a young woman who works and lives afast-paced lifestyle in New York City. She has a five-year-old motherlessnephew who has a father and grandmother in Texas. It seems logical to take himthere, and if all worked out, they could gain custody of the child. But nothinggoes right--nothing is as Kate thought it would be--and her plan completelyfalls apart.

I have no idea how I thought of this story. I didno research to speak of, since I'm so familiar with Texas.

Oh, yes, I did have to learn how a rider started amotorcycle. Since my husband had one years before, he helped me write thatpart.

KAREN: JesseMcCoy is the hero of the story. What is he like? When he first meets theheroine, Kate Norwood, what is his first impression? What are Jesse’s strengthsand weaknesses?

CELIA: Jesse is a "man's man," a big, strongguy, but he has a very soft heart--very caring, and hopes to do his best forthose he loves. Kate impresses him from the very minute he pulls her over forspeeding. She takes his breath away, even though her hair resembles Pebbles',pulled up to the top of her head and sprouting out.

KAREN: Tell usabout Kate. What is her first impression when she meets Jesse? What are herweaknesses and strengths?

CELIA: When Jesse pulls her over for speeding, she thinksof the posters the Marines use, with a big handsome guy in a uniform, pointing,saying...We Want YOU For the Marines...or something like that. She's soonknocked off her feet by his gentleness and loving heart.

Kate, also, wants to do what's right, and shechastises herself for thinking she could bring Nicky to Texas and leave him.She immediately realizes she may have to give up her high-flying life in NY tocare for the child.

KAREN: What doyou find most rewarding about writing?

CELIA: The satisfying feeling I get by doing somethingcompletely different from anything else I've ever done in my life. I was notborn a writer, but it was there, in my head and in my heart, and once I beganto type, the words and stories poured out!

KAREN: Do youhave a favorite reference book or website?

CELIA: I use Google like crazy. "The Handbook ofTexas On-line" is one of the best resources I have. My bookshelf containsa few books that I've run across which are about writing--"No MoreRejections" by Alice Orr, "Hooked "by Les Edgerton, and thesimple Strunk and White "Elements of Style."

KAREN: What areyour current projects and works in progress?

CELIA: A story set in 1919 in North Texas, just as WWIends. It's a romance, but it's also about starting over when everything you hadwas destroyed.

KAREN: Tell thereaders where they can find you:

CELIA:

My blog:

http://www.celiayeary.blogspot.com

My website:
http://www.celiayeary.com

The group blog Ico-moderate with Caroline Clemmons:

http://sweetheartsofthewest.blogspot.com

My Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Celia-Yeary-Author/208687145867971

KAREN: Is thereanything else you’d like to tell the readers?

CELIA: Try new authors. I tend to stick with those I knowI'll enjoy, but when I bought a Kindle, I went a little crazy and bought a lotof books. Most were by authors I'd never heard of, but some were by authors I'dmet on-line and I decided to try some of their books. Trust me...there istalent galore out there! Stretch your wings and try someone new.

BLURB FOR The Stars at Night:

Kate Norwood from New Yorkarrives in Texas with her young motherless nephew, Nicky. She quickly decidesthe plan to relocate him with his grandmother is a mistake. With the help ofNicky’s uncle, Jesse McCoy, she learns the boy’s father is dead. Her boyfriendinterferes with his own agenda for Kate, using lies, deceptions, and cruelty.

Jesse McCoy falls for KateNorwood the minute he stops her on the outskirts of Sendera, Texas forspeeding. He soon learns they share a family connection and a common problem.His goals become finding the proper home for his nephew, saving Kate from a deviousman, and loving her for the remainder of his life. But will she give up her NewYork lifestyle to live a simple life in Texas?

EXCERPT:

Jessestood almost toe to toe with Riley, with his hands casually inside his jacketpockets once again. He rocked back a bit on his heels and looked down his noseat the smaller man without lowering his head. "Who's your visitor, Riley?Who's in your bed?"

"Thisis absurd! Criminal, in fact. I'mcalling the police right this minute and you'd better back off now, or you'llbe sorry. None of this is yourbusiness."

"Noneof what?"

Rileypointed his finger again. "If you're not out of here in two seconds, I'll…I'll…"

"Whyso defensive, Sanders? What's so frightening about us being here?"

Katehad been watching and listening to the conversation, but suddenly, she turnedon her heel and stalked to the bedroom door. Without slowing down, she turnedthe knob and stormed in, slamming the door back to the wall.

Jessetook a couple of steps in that direction to peek in the room. A naked woman layin Riley's bed, not even trying to hide beneath the sheet. The curvy blond layon her side in a seductive pose. She grinned at Kate, and then actuallychuckled low in her throat.

Katespun about, nearly knocking Jesse over, and stalked back to Riley with herfists clenched. When she got close enough to him, she spread her feet, pulledback one fist, and cracked him in the jaw. He stumbled, almost fell from theblow, and grabbed his face with both hands. He yelped like a hurt puppy dog."You crazy bitch! Get out of here!"

Jessethrew his head back and laughed out loud. He noticed Kate bent forward at thewaist. She held her hand with the other, and had both clamped between her legs.She grimaced and attempted to stem the tears spilling over.

"Ahhh,sweetheart, come here," crooned Jesse. "Let me see your poor littlehand. Let me kiss it for you. Honey, why didn't you slap him instead of usingyour fist?" He made a big show of holding her and caressing the back ofher head with one hand while holding and kissing the hurt hand. "I'm proudof you, sweetheart. Good for you."

"He'sa beast, Jesse. I hate him."

Rileyseated himself in a chair and rubbed his jaw. Lowering his chin, he said,"Okay, so what do you want?"

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON

DESERT BREEZE

THANK YOU-- Celia

KAREN: You're welcome. I wish you the best success.

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words!

2011-12-01T20:09:00.001-08:00

Yep, it's true. I see mysterious, eerie and tantalizing all in one. Rae Monet captured the essence of Magic of the Loch perfectly.

What do you see?

Magic of the Loch is coming soon to The Wild Rose Press (Faerie Line)!

Blurb:

Michaela Grant travels to Scotland for a holiday, knowing this vacation is her last. A medical condition threatens her life and any chance of a future—until she meets Alan MacLachlin, a man forced to exist between two worlds.

Alan is the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Once every fifty years he returns to human form in search of his soul mate, the one woman who can break his curse. He believes he has found forever with Michaela, but to claim it he must figure out how to save her life.

Michaela and Alan vow to take what time has to offer, but another threat looms. A sinister shape shifter with a vendetta against Alan is making Loch Ness his personal hunting ground. Now he’s threatening Michaela. Alan must discover who the shifter is and stop him before it’s too late.

Escape With A Sweet Romance...

2011-11-28T00:01:00.000-08:00

Rachel Rossano is the author of historical and sci-fi romances. Her sweet tales are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let's give Rachel a warm welcome. She loves to hear from readers. Feel free to ask questions or leave a comment.

KAREN: Why don’t you startby telling the readers a little about yourself.

RACHEL: My romantic hero (my husband) and I have three smallchildren, a four-year-old and twin toddlers. My life is bit full of diapers,sippy cups, and preschool at the moment. I am constantly on the move keepingeveryone fed, dressed, clean, and hopefully busy with an activity. Then naptimehits, silence descends, and I am typing away at my laptop. My thoughts arenever far from my current project even midst the chaos.

I love to write. It is a bit of an addiction at this point.Storytelling, characters, dialogue, you name it and I am eager to discuss it. Ithink the only part of the process I don’t like is the editing stage, but eventhat has its perks.

This obsession with words began at an early age. As a child,I was notorious for checking out the maximum number of books from the libraryevery week. The following week I would be back, eager for a fresh batch.

KAREN: Tell us about yourstory, The Crown of Anavrea. What isthe story about? What inspired you to write it? How much research did you haveto do?

RACHEL: The Crown of Anavrea isa tale about choices and love. Eve, a slave, encounters a stranger in theforest. He is on the run, wounded, and ready to die. She convinces him toaccept her help and fight. Upon recovering his health, Labren offers her theprotection of marriage, freeing her from slavery. Eve chooses to throw her lotin with him despite knowing nothing of his past and why he was on the run. Thestory follows them on their journey to love and trust as Labren makes peacewith his past.

I began writing TheCrown of Anavrea while visiting the black forest area of Germany. Thegorgeous countryside influenced the setting of the book quite a bit. How canone not be inspired among ancient forests, rolling green hills, and majesticmountains? I did think of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales as I wrote, but nowitches, goblins, or other fairy tale creatures crept into the story. There area few kings, princes, and a princess, though.

For this book, I didn’t do any research. Instead, I createda new country to fit the story and added it to a world I was using for aseparate novel already in process. That story will probably never be published.

KAREN: Labren is the hero ofthe story. What is he like? When he first meets the heroine, what is his firstimpression?

RACHEL: Labren is an easy going man, usually. A doer, a man ofaction, and a planner, he tends to be thinking a few steps ahead. Gentleman tothe core, he believes women should be protected and respected. Honor and dutydrive him, sometimes in directions he doesn’t want. Still, he will tackle thedistasteful with grace. Don’t get the idea that he won’t dirty his hands, though.He brawls with a scoundrel to defend Eve’s honor.

His first impression of Eve is that she is too young. Hecalls her a child. Not exactly the best way to make a good impression on awoman. Of course, he is half out of his head with pain and a fever at the time.Once the fever is under control, he finds her quite attractive. Her inner strengthintrigues him.

KAREN: Tell us about Eve. Whatis her first impression of Labren?

RACHEL: When Eve saw Labren, she responded to the man in pain. Shesaw him as someone in need of help and her compassionate heart responded. Thereis a moment when she wonders if he is more dangerous than the king’s men shehas been warned about. However, when he declares that he will die, she decidesshe will do all she can to prevent that. She doesn’t see him as a completeperson until much later when he begins to regain his strength. Only then, doesshe begin grow aware of him as a woman.

KAREN: What do you find mostrewarding about writing?

RACHEL: Oh, there are so many aspects that I find rewarding. Fromthe thrill of a new idea to the satisfaction of the completed book, the wholeis exciting. Each part, however, has its own special allure.

Character creation is an amazing process. Choosing a name,writing a background, and plotting out the past are fun. However, I am alwaysanxious to get to the writing. On the page is where I truly begin to get a feelfor each character. I discover their voice, mannerisms, and personality in thecourse of the storytelling.

I write with a mixture of plotting and by theseat-of-my-pantsing. So, I love seeing the story forming as I write. The words,images, emotions, and events fall into a pattern, rise toward a climax, andthen resolve. There is a special satisfaction to finishing a story, even if itis still only a rough first draft. It is a natural high.

KAREN: Do you have afavorite reference book or website?

RACHEL: Not really.

I do research and seek inspiration from many sources. Books,articles, and websites are all vital resources.

KAREN: What are your currentprojects and works in progress?

RACHEL: Do you have awhile? I have quite a list.

At the moment, I am preparing two short stories forpublication.

One is a prequel to Exchange,my first published short story. Set far in the future among diplomatic talksand insults both veiled and blatant, the story focuses on the meeting of themismatched pair from Exchange. Myah’spresence distracts Ruhan from his task as representative of his planet. Theattraction makes no sense. She, unlike him, is not gene-altered. A towaconnection shouldn’t be possible, yet how else can he explain the pull everytime she comes near him.

The other short story resembles The Crown of Anavrea and TheMercenary’s Marriage, my published novellas. Set in a fantasy worldresembling Medieval Europe, Word and Deedfollows the fate of a noblewoman named Maven Faye. After her father dies ofunusual circumstances, her half-brother betroths her to a man with a fearsomereputation, sight unseen. To prevent her escape and quiet her tongue, herbrother locks her in a tower. A soldier from her betrothed arrives to evaluateher. He touches her heart. Still, she must marry his master, hopefully beforeher half-brother decides she knows too much about their father’s death to live.

I am also preparing the next novella in the Theodoric Sagafor publication (The Crown of Anavreais book one). The King of Anavreawill follow Labren’s younger brother as he balances his responsibilities as anew husband and king.

There are quite a few more projects in the queue, but Iwon’t bore you with them now.

KAREN: Wow, you are busy.

Tell the readerswhere they can find you:

Blog ~ http://rachel-rossano.blogspot.com/
Website~ http://anavrea.webs.com/
Twitter~ http://twitter.com/#!/RachelRossano
Facebook~ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Rossanos-Rambles/24042186570 4

KAREN: Is there anythingelse you’d like to tell the readers?

RACHEL: If you are interested in getting a visual taste of any of mypublished works, the book trailers are on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/anavrea). Bysubscribing to my channel, you will be among the first to know about anyupcoming releases when I upload their book trailers.

The Crown ofAnavrea's book trailer.

Amazon buy links:

The Crown of Anavrea - http://www.amazon.com/Crown-Anavrea-Theodoric-Saga-ebook/dp/B005VFXIQC

In a time when castles were the strongest…in a place where combat was face to face…Labren was on the run. He hid his true name and he admitted it freely.

In a time when slavery was legal...in a place where kings were all-powerful…Eve, a slave, appeared in the right place at the right time.

Eve saved his life. In return, he offered her the opportunity of freedom. She did not know what would happen to her if she chose to accept his proposal, but she did know the consequences of rejecting it.

The Mercenary’s Marriage - http://www.amazon.com/The-Mercenarys-Marriage-ebook/dp/B005IHAU32

Trained as a mercenary soldier, Darius Laris was a man of decisive action. He was also a man of compassion. Seeing a young slave woman about to become the spoils of war, he claimed her for his own. Marrying her before God and king, he made her a free and respectable soldier's wife. Brice Ashlyn was born a slave. Abused and beaten, she learned quickly to avoid being noticed and to stay away from men. When her master's walls fell to enemy forces, she ran, but not fast enough. In Darius' offer she found deliverance, but experience had taught her to fear power such as his. Could she trust in his protection, or had she traded one form of slavery for another?

Exchange - http://www.amazon.com/Exchange-ebook/dp/B005PTXWDI/

Blurb: He offers her escape, but at what cost?

Isolated on a distant planet, she is incarcerated for a crime she doesn’t recall. She has no name, no idea where she came from, or why she is injected with drugs daily to hold these vital facts from her grasp. Despite small rebellions, she wastes away, worn and losing hope of ever being whole again.

Then he arrives. Claiming to hold the answers burned daily from her brain, he offers her a way out. But at what cost?

KAREN: Rachel, thank you so much for sharing your books with us. I wish you the very best success!

Black Friday Blog Hop: KINDLE FIRE and 23 Books!

2011-11-25T09:01:00.001-08:00

Have you ever been so busy you forgot to be somewhere? It happened to me today. Sorry this is late, but it looks like I'm a part of this blog hop. lol Some of the blogs have me listed. So if you end up here, I don't want you to be disappointed. Giveaway: Gift Certificate for a free digital copy of Mr. O'Grady's Magic Box, Love's Eternal Embrace and for Wanted.

So what are the rules? Simple: visit as many of the blogs as you can and leave a comment for the blog owner. For every comment, you’ll get one entry into the grand-prize drawing. Be sure to leave your e-mail address with every comment so we can find you if you win! And don’t forget that several blog owners are giving away prizes specific to their blog, too!
One winner will be chosen on Saturday morning using random.org. I will contact that person about the Kindle Fire and then each blog owner with a prize will contact the winner themselves to arrange delivery of said prize. Questions? Contact me at AuthorCassandraCarr AT gmail DOT com.

1. Carrie Ann Ryan	2. Cynthia Edens Blog	3. Cari Quinn
4. Lissa Matthews	5. Misa Buckley	6. Romantic Words by Cynthia
7. Louisa Bacio -- Love Knows No Bounds	8. Me Want Food - Romance Author Leigh Ellwood	9. Historys Mistress with Court Sheets
10. Sara Brookes	11. Wickedly WantonTales	12. The ABCs of Erotica - Malia Mallory
13. Babbling about Books and More- KTGrant	14. Lacey Wolfe	15. Natasha Blackthorne ~ Erotic Historical Romance
16. Lucy Felthouse	17. Jacquie Rogers, Romance, Whimsy, Magic	18. Amber Kallyn
19. Camryn Rhys	20. Black Friday Blog Hop	21. KMN Books Blogspot

Black Friday Sale!!

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Moon Shifter is 30% off for the Wild Rose Press' Black Friday Sale!!

Moon Shifter: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=3795

It is forbidden for a moon shifter of The Mac Tíre clan to change a human and save them from death. Grayson Quinn, the alpha of the pack ignores the ancient rule when Sydney Carlisle, his fiancée is ravaged by one of his own kind.

Sydney believes she is a monster, a werewolf. She flees before Grayson can help her adjust, but Grayson must find her. Sydney’s body is still changing and the were-lust will drive her crazy if not sated. He has until the full moon to help her tame the wolf inside and convince her she’s his soul mate. If he fails, he loses her forever.

KMN Books

Leap Day for Man and Release Day for Clash of Wills!

Mi'lady Jeanne Treat with Wee Sneak Preview!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day? No Thanks.

New Short Story Releases To Warm Your Heart

Valentine's Gifts For Everyone!

Romance Is In the Air!

Romance is in the Air Week Starts Tomorrow!

RTW Cupid Party 6 Books and Kindle Giveaway!

Romance, Love Letters and Beth Trissel

RTW Cupid Party!

Undercover Prince and the Secret Service Cinderella

Bittersweet Romance Takes Readers By Leaps and Bounds

Karen's Amazing Blog Event

Author Claire Ashgrove Shares: A Day in the Life

Romantic Suspense Can Be DEADLY!

Vonnie: My website is www.vonniehughes.com

Email me on vonniehughes@gmail.com

Jennifer Jakes Takes to the High Seas!

Tantalizing Office Affair...Oh My!

Preditor and Editors is at it again for the Best...

The Holiday's Over. What Now?

Merry Christmas From KMN Books!

Author Sarah McNeal and her Supernatural Christmas

What's on Your Virtual Bookshelf?

The winner of Markee Anderson's $10 Amazon Card giveaway is Desitheblonde. Congratulations!!

TEXAN AUTHOR SHARES HER Romantic Tale

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words!

Escape With A Sweet Romance...

Black Friday Blog Hop: KINDLE FIRE and 23 Books!

Black Friday Sale!!

It is forbidden for a moon shifter of The Mac Tíre clan to change a human and save them from death. Grayson Quinn, the alpha of the pack ignores the ancient rule when Sydney Carlisle, his fiancée is ravaged by one of his own kind.

Sydney still craves Grayson’s touch, but can her heart forgive him for making her one of the Mac Tíre?