Heart of Romance

Totally HOT Thursdays

2012-02-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

The gentleman I am going to introduce you today, is of course, gorgeous and I think you will recognize him from a very popular show. When I looked him up and got his information, I was excited to see we shared a birthday which was yesterday, February 8th.

I would like to wish a belated Happy Birthday to:

Liam McIntyre!

Liam plays the lead role of Spartacus in the T.V. series of the same name. Let me give you a few stats about him.

BDAY- February 8, 1982
PLACE- He is from Adelaide Australia

There isn't a lot written about him. He started acting in 2007 in Australia. His first US role was in the HBO mini-series, The Pacific.

www.blog.zap2it.com

www.starz.com

www.zimbio.com

Thanks for stopping by and have a great Thirsday!

Winner of the Heart of Romance contest

2012-02-04T07:24:00.000-08:00

I am sorry I am just now getting this out. Please except my apologies. The first few days of February of been crazy.

I ran a contest in January in hopes of getting new followers. If someone followed my blog, then I chose a winner and they would receive a $25 gift card to Barnes and Noble.

The winner is:
Mary Preston!

Thank you Mary for following along. Please email me at sarah-hoss@hotmail.com so that I may get your information.

New Winner of Susan Schreyer's book

2012-02-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

I am choosing another winner for Susan's book, since the last winner has not yet gotten ahold of me.

The new winner is:

Renee Vincent!

Please email me at sarah-hoss@hotmail.com so that I can get your information. Thank you for stopping by and congratulations Renee!!!

WINNER!!!!

2012-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

The winner of Elizabeth McKenna's book, CERA'S PLACE is:

Sandy Rowland!!!!!!

Please email me at sarah-hoss@hotmail.com with your information so we can get your book to you.

Author Interview ELIZABETH MCKENNA

2012-01-30T05:40:00.000-08:00

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR ELIZABETH MCKENNA
Today I’m interviewing Elizabeth McKenna. Her book, Cera’s Place, is a historical romance available in ebook and paperback.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.
Thanks so much, Sarah for inviting me to your blog. I love your Totally HOT Thursdays – great pictures! Cera’s Place is set in San Francisco 1869. Cera runs a saloon but, unlike other such businesses of the times, she doesn’t allow prostitution. Over the years, she has helped women escape their terrible lives and become “respectable.” Jake is an ex-soldier haunted by his Civil War experiences. He’s on a mission to find the daughter of a friend who died in battle. One of the subplots of the novel is based on actual events. During this time period, since the majority of the Chinese population in California was male, Asian women were kidnapped and forced into prostitution in America. The Anti-Prostitution Act of 1870 made it illegal to import women for criminal or demoralizing purposes. Cera and Jake team up to fight a gang that is kidnapping Chinese girls for the local brothels. Of course, in the process they fall in love.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is it the only genre you write in?

It’s historical romance with a large dose of adventure. So far, it is the only genre I have published. I do have a contemporary romance started, but I keep going back to the historical because I love to research.

When did you start writing toward publication?

I started writing Cera’s Place in January of 2008 and published it in September 2011. I am a technical writer by trade, so this was my first attempt at creative writing since my college days – and I had a lot to learn.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?
No.

Why have you become a published author?
I self-published because the perception of indie authors is changing thanks to Amazon and other sites that promote non-traditional publishing. I know Amazon is a dirty word in some circles, but over 90% of my sales are from this site, so I must appreciate their support. Over the years, I did submit numerous queries/partial manuscripts and even had an editor at Carina Press ask for revisions, but it was so frustrating to wait months only to be rejected. In the end, I decided if I sold even one book to a stranger via self-publishing, I would be happy. Right now, I am ecstatic.

Do you have any rejection stories to share?
I have committed every mistake a newbie could make. The biggest one was sending out my manuscript before it was ready. I essentially sent out my first draft. Ouch! Luckily, I was humble enough to ask for help after receiving the first round of rejections.

What is your writing routine like?

Unfortunately, I write slowly and I have to fit it in between my full-time job and my children’s numerous activities. I usually am able to spend some time in the afternoon writing. I’m happy if I can get a few strong paragraphs down every day.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?
My only help is from the other writers on LinkedIn and Google+ who post information about helpful websites/articles/blogs. I run ads on Facebook, Goodreads, and Kindle Nation Daily. Besides my author website, I have an author page on Facebook, Google+, Amazon, Linkedin, Goodreads, Super E-Books.com, ISelfPub.com, The Romance Reviews, and Manic Readers. I have submitted Cera’s Place for review to over 50 romance blogs. (I try to add to that list every day.) I wish I didn’t have to spend the time marketing – I’d rather be writing – but I understand I need to build a fan base for future novels. Facebook has been great. My Cera’s Place page has fans from all over the world – the largest group is from India, which has a small but growing ebook market. I love checking it every morning.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?
Celebrating my success with my children is on the top of my list. When they were young, they asked me what I had wanted to be when I grew up. I answered an astronaut, until I realized I was claustrophobic. Then I decided I wanted to be a best-selling author. They asked why I wasn’t one, to which I replied, “Technical writing pays the bills.” I decided to write a novel to show them it is never too late to follow your dreams (there was also a scary psychic involved, but that’s another story). No, I am not a best-selling author yet, but I am closer to quitting my day job (please don’t tell my husband that). Having someone besides my mother enjoy my book is second on my list.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?
No organizations, though I submitted most of Cera’s Place to several online writing groups for critiques and hired a professional editor before I published it. It helped me tremendously and I am grateful for the time these strangers took to evaluate my work. I learned so much from them.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?
I am the worst self-doubter. I go through periods where I refuse to read any fiction because I believe it is so much better than my own and I get depressed. Then I repeat this quote by Milton Lomask, “There's no right way of writing. There's only your way.” It is impossible for everyone to like your writing, so don’t sweat the rejections and the bad reviews. You don’t like everything you read, so why expect others to? Enjoy the process of creating something you can call your own and then get critiqued by someone whose writing you respect – it will help you grow.

What’s next for you?
I’m working on Moonlight in Venice, another historical romance set in the 1750s. I still don’t have a clear description, but it involves death, theft, art, Cabalism, Freemasonry, Carnival season, pregnancy, and cataracts – and love, of course, lots of love.

BOOK BLURB
It was her saloon and her rules – until the day he walked through the swinging doors…

Life hasn’t been exactly kind to San Francisco saloon owner Cera Cassidy, but she has built a successful business and a family of friends. She carries the reputation of a tough woman with a big heart, along with a derringer in her skirt pocket. One summer night, she discovers that the neighborhood thug is kidnapping Chinese girls to sell to the local brothels. Outraged, Cera vows to bring him to justice, but he’s not going to let anyone interfere with his livelihood.

Jake Tanner, a scarred ex-soldier haunted by his Civil War experiences, is on a mission to fulfill a friend’s dying wish. The trail has brought him to Cera’s door. Captivated by her Irish beauty, he is more than willing to join in her fight – if only she would let him.

A little bit about the author.
Elizabeth McKenna is a full-time technical writer/editor for a large software company. She never read romance novels until one Christmas when her sister gave her the latest bestseller by Nora Roberts. She was hooked from page one (actually, she admits it was the first love scene).

She had always wanted to write fiction, so when a psychic told her she would write a book, Elizabeth felt obligated to give it a try. She combined her love of history, romance and a happy ending to write her first novel Cera's Place. She recently released a short story titled The Gypsy Casts a Spell.

Elizabeth lives in Wisconsin with her understanding husband, two beautiful daughters, and sassy Labrador. When she isn't writing, working, or being a mom, she's sleeping.

EXCERPT
Cera noticed the stranger while she leaned against the bar, drinking her third cup of coffee for the day. It was the first chance she’d had to catch her breath. Business was brisk, as everyone wanted to talk about last night’s fire over some food and drinks.

He sat alone, hunched down into his faded officer’s coat, reminding Cera of the many war-weary drifters who had passed through her place. His worn boots rested casually on the seat of a chair, and though his Stetson sat low over his eyes, she got the sense he could see just fine. He seemed to be waiting.

More often than not, Cera could see trouble coming. When she looked at this stranger, an uneasy feeling rose in her belly. Unfortunately, she couldn’t decide if it was because of the bowie knife and Colt revolver strapped to his sides or because his tangled, dark hair and chiseled jaw made him the best-looking man she had seen in months.

As she pondered the stranger, his face moved out of the shadows, revealing a thick jagged scar running from the outer edge of his left eye to the corner of his mouth. Startled by the sight, Cera’s hand jerked, sloshing coffee over the cup’s rim. Their eyes met and, for an instance, Cera thought she saw a flash of anger in the stranger’s gaze.

Embarrassed, she turned away to hide the blush blooming in her cheeks. As she wiped her wet hand on her apron, she chided herself for such squeamish behavior. Since the end of the War Between the States, plenty of men had walked through the saloon’s doors with injuries far worse than a scar. There was no reason for this one to unsettle her.

When her composure returned, she sought out Ginger. “See that drifter over there?” She inclined her head slightly in the stranger’s direction. “Has he said anything to you?”

“Oh my, my, my, that dusty Yankee? I’ve been trying to catch his eye since he sat down. I think they’re blue, by the way. Too bad about his face, but luckily I’ve never liked my men prettier than me.”

Cera laughed, despite her present worries. “Well then, you’re the perfect girl to go charm him—find out what he’s about.”

Ginger’s painted on eyebrows knitted together as she cast a discreet glance at the stranger. “You think he’s trouble?”

“Maybe, but maybe I’m just nervous because of last night. Either way it will be good to know who he is and what he wants. He looks barely able to afford the beer sitting in front of him. Who’s been serving him?”

“Sonya, I think.”

“Try to get him talking. I’ll go see if he’s paid for anything yet.” Cera gulped the rest of her coffee and moved to where Sonya sat playing cards with three other men.

*****

Across the room, Jake watched the redhead and the saloon owner exchange words. Then, after grabbing a bottle of wine and a glass, the redhead sashayed toward the piano player. She whispered in his ear, and when he struck up a new tune, she began to sing in a clear sweet voice.

“Drink to me only with thine eyes and I will pledge with mine. Or leave a kiss within the cup and I'll not ask for wine…”

As the men in the room shouted their encouragement, the redhead twirled from table to table, stopping only for a brief flirt. As she ended the song, she stopped in front of Jake, striking a pose with one hand on her ample hip.

“You’ve been tasting that beer for a long time now, Captain. Want to try something better?” She smiled, waving the wine bottle at him. “My name is Ginger and I have here the finest sparkling white wine in all of California—from the Buena Vista Winery. It’s all the rage in Paris—very chic. The first drink is on me.”

In his mind, Jake saw the dinner parties that he watched from the top of the main staircase in his boyhood home. His parents and their friends dressed in finery, making toast after toast with wine glasses filled to the brim. His mother’s laughter always carried above the din of lively conversation.

Now in the smoke-filled saloon, his eyes traveled over Ginger’s gravity-defying bosom, colored hair and made-up face, including a painted on black mole next to her full red lips. The Southern belle held out the glass, waiting for his response. Fate sure had a mean sense of humor, he thought, smiling wryly.

How can my readers buy your book?

Cera’s Place is available in the following formats:

Ebook: $2.99 (US) at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Apple, Kobo, Sony and Diesel.

Paperback: $11.99 (US) at CreateSpace, Amazon and Infibeam.com.

Come visit me!

Elizabeth McKenna's website / Facebook (Elizabeth McKenna) / Facebook (Cera's Place)

***NOTE- Elizabeth McKenna will be giving a free copy of her book to one lucky commenter!***

WINNER!

2012-01-29T07:26:00.000-08:00

The winner of SUSAN SCHREYER'S book from Friday's interview is:

Carol-Lynn Rossel!

Please email me so I ca get the needed information to Susan. Thank you for stopping by and visiting us!

Sincerely,
Sarah

Author Interview SUSAN SCHREYER

2012-01-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR Susan Schreyer

Today I’m interviewing Susan Schreyer. Her book, An Error In Judgment, a mystery with romance and suspense, is her third book and set in the real life town of Snohomish, Washington.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Sarah, thank you so much for inviting me here to talk about the latest in my mystery series, An Error In Judgment. This is the third Thea Campbell adventure. The story opens as Thea and boyfriend Paul Hudson attend an awards banquet for the Puget Sound Dressage Society (for your readers who don't know, dressage is a difficult and demanding equestrian sport that Thea participates in with her horse Blackie). Thea's long-time friend Andrea has recently married a judge for the sport -- a wealthy man with a reputation for arrogance -- and Thea has lost contact with her. Assuming the fault is hers, Thea intends to mend the rift between them. However, Andrea's husband collapses and dies during the ceremonies, leaving a mysterious last request of Paul that no one, particularly Paul, understands. Andrea turns to Thea and Paul for support and unwittingly plunges them into a murder investigation. When Andrea is arrested for her husband's murder and an old nemesis of Paul and Thea's turns up the stakes raise and the price becomes a run for their lives.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

You'll find all my books under the "mystery" label, but there is a good deal of romance mixed in, and An Error In Judgment has been described by readers as a "romantic thriller." I also like to include humor in my stories, when the opportunity arises. None of my books are purely one genre, as each encompasses elements that wouldn't be found in, say, a cozy mystery and break the rules for other genres like romantic suspense. Nevertheless, it's where my heart is and for now is the only genre I write in.

When did you start writing toward publication?
Now, that is a difficult question to answer! When I started writing my first book my intention was to simply see if I could do it. Once it became clear that I was going to accomplish that goal, I decided to learn as much as I possibly could from the people who had already "been there and done that." Somewhere along the way I realized I wanted to share my stories with others who enjoy the same kinds of stories I do. In short, I "grew" into my publishing goal.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?
I had finished (essentially) three manuscripts by the time I published the first. I shopped only my first book, Death By A Dark Horse, since it was the first in the series to both agents and publishers. When I became aware of how much the industry was changing and how those changes were affecting my goals I made a decision to take my career into my own hands and forge my own path.

Why have you become a published author?
Wow. Good question. I think I'd have to say that I've become a published author to make a career out of something I love to do. There's no question that it's work -- in a way that writing isn't before you have deadlines and a business to manage. Nevertheless, being able to earn a living doing something you love has definite appeal.

Do you have any rejection stories to share?
Oh, my goodness, yes! There isn't a writer who puts her or his work on the line who doesn't. I think it's required to have your ego crushed and battered, isn't it? Once you've got your first 50 rejections under your belt you join that group of battled scared warriors who can smile and pat the newbie on the back, hand them a box of Kleenex and tell them that you know, from personal experience, that it isn't the end of the world.

What is your writing routine like?

I work part time in a veterinarian's office and also teach dressage to a few students. My husband and son require a lot of my time, too, so I have to schedule in my writing time and make it as productive as possible. I do my best work in the morning so, if I can, I write then. I like quiet, to concentrate, so I tend to get up a bit early. I'm one of those writers who plan, too. I write an outline and synopsis for the story, and before I begin the novel I write the victim's story and the villain's story. Of course by the time I'm done I've probably diverged from the initial path, but I need the guidance of structure to be efficient with my time.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?
Promotion and Marketing (note the caps!) are akin to scaling a sheer cliff for me. I'm really really good at NOT being the life of the party, NOT tooting my own horn and I excel at shining the spotlight on someone else. That said, I've developed a routine with my two blogs, Facebook and to a small degree Twitter. More recently I've gotten together with other authors to bring some entertainment (and some awareness that we've written books!) to the reading public. I volunteer to do author panels at events, and last year created the Northwest Mystery Author Group, where we go to different venues -- libraries, book clubs, book stores, retirement centers, etc. -- to talk on the subject of writing, books and publishing. I'm also part of another author group -- The Story River. We do essentially the same thing, but are not exclusively the mystery genre. The panels are fun to do. I enjoy meeting people who love a good story as much as I do. The major emphasis is to become known, then the people who will enjoy what I write will know where to find my books.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?
There are so many, and there IS a difference in one's outlook and perspective once you publish. Before I crossed into "published author land" my focus was on the industry professionals -- agents, editors, publishers. They were a "goal" for me. Now, I have come to realize that it's really about the readers and how I connect with them. I love the people I've had the opportunity to meet; they are smart, articulate and fascinating. The readers are the Big Reward.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?
Yes! Writing is a solitary endeavor, and as such I think it's important to connect with like-minded people -- people who understand what it takes to work at your craft and can give you support, assistance, and advice when you need it. I belong to Sisters in Crime, am on the steering committee for the Guppy Chapter (the internet chapter of SinC), and am co-president of the Puget Sound Chapter of SinC. I also belong to a local writers' group (O-Pen) where we meet in person once a month, Northwest Mystery Writers Group, and The Story River. I cherish my writer friends. They are amazing and generous people.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?
The world of publishing is changing rapidly and daily. What it will be five years or five months from now is anybody's guess. Have a heart-to-heart with yourself and decide what your OWN personal goals and priorities are. Then decide how you will go about getting them. Remain open to changing your mind -- remember, these days, more than at any time in the past, you are aiming at a moving target. Stay on top of what is going on in the industry so you don't get blindsided by unanticipated changes.

What’s next for you?
I'm just finishing up the fourth Thea Campbell Mystery. It is yet untitled, but I'm hoping to change that soon with a contest! In this adventure Thea and Paul discover human bones buried in their backyard. The disappearance of the skeleton only feeds the local rumor mill. Talk of ghosts and the Lost Treasure of Snohomish pull the two of them into a mystery that is still very much alive!

BOOK BLURB

An Error In Judgment, is the third Thea Campbell Mystery. During the awards ceremony at the Puget Sound Dressage Society's annual banquet dressage judge Sig Paalmann collapses and dies. The wealthy man leaves his bride of two months -- Thea's estranged friend, Andrea -- and enigmatic last words.

Thea's initial plan to reestablish her friendship with Andrea, despite the arrogant man she married, grows into resolve to support her through the crisis. But Andrea needs more than support when her husband's death is deemed murder and she is arrested.

With boyfriend Paul Hudson's help, Thea's digs in to investigate only to discover complications far worse than either had anticipated. Andrea is pregnant and in fragile health, warring business partners jockey for control, slighted family members turn ruthless, and Thea and Paul become pawns in a desperate struggle for money and power. But, the situation, already critical, takes an even more personal twist with the arrival of an old nemesis -- a man capable of orchestrating not only Sig's death but the grave danger stalking Andrea, Thea and Paul.

A little bit about the author.
I live in the great state of Washington with my husband, two children (although one is at college), and a variety of animals or various species. The horse lives within easy driving distance. When not writing stories about people in the next town being murdered, articles for worthy publications, or blogging, I train horses and teach people how to ride them.

EXCERPT

I pinned my attention on the big screen while photographs reeled in rapid succession and the lively, theatrical music played in preparation for the announcement of Fourth Level Horse of the Year. In moments, the flow of images slowed.

"For Fourth Level Horse of the Year …." Sig's voice trailed off as the display of pictures stopped on a familiar dark bay gelding.

My jaw dropped.

It was Blackie.

And me.

I cringed and slid lower in my seat, shielding my eyes with my hands, as if I could hide behind them. What else could possibly go wrong tonight? Someone had selected the wrong picture. I never checked the "qualifying" box on the show entries I submitted. Humiliated, I waited for someone to point out the error.

Sig's voice came over the speaker. "The Black Queen's Bishop ridden by Thea Campbell."

I turned, in confusion, to Paul. He was beaming and applauding. Was this why he'd been in a happy mood all day and been concerned about me dragging my feet? Was this the reason he practically wrestled with me to keep me in my chair?

I looked to Uncle Henry for an explanation. He winked at me as he clapped. "I adjusted your entries before I sent them in."

Unable to process what was going on, I remained rooted to my chair.

Juliet dove across Paul, and he jerked back as she narrowly missed clocking him in the jaw with her head. She grabbed my arm and shook me. "Go, go! That's you! Get up! Get up!"

Stunned to the point of accepting orders from my sister, I did what she said and hurried to the stage. Paalmann fixed a friendly, if tipsy, gaze on me. But as I approached his smile quavered then vanished, his lips pressed into a white line. Shocked, I hesitated, but he thrust the ribbon at me. It slipped through his fingers. I lunged and caught it as he mumbled a "sorry." Then he picked up the silver bowl from the trophy table with both hands and passed it to me. I murmured a "thank you," my smile shaky, and (surprised he offered) shook his damp, icy hand. Within the brief moment we made eye contact perspiration popped on his brow and his complexion turned waxy.

"Congrat --" He swayed, tugging at his collar with both hands.

As if by a collective decision the room turned utterly silent. Only the cheerful Broadway music played on.

With a jerk, he went rigid. His eyes made a frantic search of the audience before rolling upward. He toppled like one of his toys.

The silver bowl and ribbon fell from my hands, crashing to the floor at the same moment as Sig. The room erupted in a cacophony of shouts and gasps. I leaped forward, dropped to my knees, and with two efficient flicks, undid his tie. Footsteps pounded across the stage behind me. Sig's eyes fluttered open.

"Lay still. You'll be okay." As I fumbled with his collar buttons, his hands shot up, capturing both my wrists in a crushing grip. I yelped and tried to pull away, but he wouldn't let go. His eyes focused on mine, desperate, commanding.

"Hudson … Paul Hudson … tell him …." His voice was raw with pleading. Even as it failed him, his eyes continued to beg.

A woman, kneeling on the other side of Sig, undid his shirt button. "Try to stay calm, Mr. Paalmann. I'm a doctor. An ambulance is on the way."

I tugged against his grip, but his rigid fingers would not release me.

"Tell him," he repeated.

"Tell him what?" I glanced at the doctor, who met my gaze and shook her head.

With enormous effort Sig tried again. "Tell Hudson … Andrea … must understand … my name. It must have my name."

How can my readers buy your book?

My three books are:

Death By A Dark Horse - the first Thea Campbell Mystery
ISBN: 978-1456388652

Levels Of Deception - the second Thea Campbell Mystery
ISBN: 978-1460955895

An Error in Judgment - the third Thea Campbell Mystery
ISBN: 978-1463760052

All my books are available on:
Amazon in e-book format as well as trade paperback.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_tc_2_0?rh=i%3Astripbooks%2Ck%3ASusan+Schreyer&keywords=Susan+Schreyer&ie=UTF8&qid=1327123464&sr=1-2-ent&field-contributor_id=B004CLPMUG

The tiny URL for Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/7egcszl

Barnes & Noble in e-book format and trade paperback
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/susan-schreyer

Smashwords in e-book format
http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/SusanSchreyer

And most e-book retailers and bookstores.

I love to hear from readers and can be found on :

Facebook at Susan Schreyer Mysteries https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Schreyer-Mysteries/161359303906634

Twitter @susanschreyer

Email: susan@susanschreyer.com

Webpage: www.susanschreyer.com

Blog: Writing Horses http://writinghorses.blogspot.com

Blog: Things I Learned From My Horse http://thingsilearnedfrommyhorse.com

***NOTE Susan will be giving away one ebook copy of her book to one lucky winner, You must leave a comment. Check back tomorrow to see who the winner is.***

Totally HOT Thursdays

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this man on the Ellen Show the other day. I watch him all the time on his TV show, CRIMINAL MINDS, and I have to say, he is one beautiful man!

Let me introduce you to:

www.thepurplenoodle.blogspot.com

SHEMAR MOORE

Shemar was born on April 20, 1970 in Oakland California to Sherrod Moore who is African-American and Marilyn Moore who is of Irish-Canadian French decent.

His mother held a mathematical degree and taught in Bahrain and Denmark for several years. First he moved with his mother and father to Denmark as an infant then when he was four, he moved to Bahrain where he attended a British Private School until he was four.

In 1977, they moved to Chico, California and then onto Palo Alto California where Shemar graduated from High School. Shemar attended Santa Clara University, majoring in communications. He did modeling to pay the bills.

Shemar Moore's TV career

The Young and The Restless as Malcom Winters from 1994-2005
The Jamie Foxx Show as Elister- 1996
The Nanny as himself- 1997
Mama Flora's Family as Lincoln Fleming- 1998
Splackavellie music video as a love interest- 1998
Birds of Prey as Jesse Reese- 2002-2003
Scott Turow's Reversible Errors as Collins Farewell- 2004
Criminal Minds as Derek Morgan- 2005-Present
The Ellen Degeneres Show as himself- 2011 and 2012
The Mon'ique Show as himself- 2011

Shemar Moore's Movie career

Living Single as John Mark- 1994
Butter as Freddy Roland- 1998
Box Marley as Jim Whittman- 2000
How To Marry A Billionaire: A Christmas Story as Jason Hunt- 2000
The Brothers as Terry White- 2001
Chasing Alice as Mason- 2003
Motives as Emery Simms- 2004
The Seat Filler as Trent- 2004
Greener as Ricky Johnson- 2004
Diary of A Mad Black Woman as Orlando- 2005
Motives 2: Retribution as Emery Simms- 2005

In 1998, Shemar's mother, Marilyn, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Shemar, along with his cast mates, have done several charity events to raise money for MS.

One of the events he like to participate in is cycling.

www.shemarmoore.org

www.newsglosspil.tumblr.com

www.shirtlessdaily.com

HAVE A GREAT THURSDAY EVERYONE!!!!!

Happy birthday Robert Burns

2012-01-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

I want to take a minute and wish a happy 253rd birthday to one of Scotland's most beloved men, ROBERT BURNS! I hope you enjoy the video and it gives you a brief insight to the man the world has come to love.

Author interviews coming

2012-01-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned next week. I have some amazing authors I am interviewing and will be bring you some new books to check out. I hope you will enjoy the posts.

Thanks,
Sarah

Taking a new class

2012-01-16T05:37:00.000-08:00

I am taking a new class. Its called "KILLER OPENINGS" BY Alexa Bourne.
This makes me stop and think about my own writing, as any class should do. I wonder if what I have done is good enough? Did I write something that will catch the reader and pull them into the world that I have created?

They say you can't judge a book by it's cover, but in all reality you can. Most people pick a book off the shelves because that is what grabbed their attention; the cover. Other times they automatically go for a book by their favorite author.

But let's say a friend recommended a book to you by an author you had never heard of before. You trust their judgement, so you pick it up and look at it. That author only has one page to draw you in. Maybe even only the first line. So what they write must make the reader want to keep reading. The author needs to be able to pull you into the story so that you want to turn the page.

Some say the end of the book is hard to write and others think the middle of the book is the hardest thing to write, but I think we all agree that finding that killer opening can be just as difficult.

What I want to know is what draws you into the book in that killer opening. Is it dialog? Is it the description of where the scene is or who the people are? What makes you want to keep reading that book and turning it's pages? Maybe give us an example of an opening that blew you away.

Thanks for being with me here today and here's to hoping the next book you read knocks your socks off.

Have a great week!!!
Sarah

Totally HOT Thursdays

2012-01-12T06:06:00.000-08:00

Good morning-afternoon-evening to you all. Depending on when you are looking at this. And if you stop back three times today, (shhh, we won't tell) then I wish you all three.

I am going to cheat today. I have to go with my sister to her pre-op doctor's appts, so I don't have the time to search the web for Mr. Hunky. What I am going to do for you is give you a whole bunch of them instead.

I have had these pictures in my stash for sometimes. You never know when you are going to need the picture of a good looking man for instances like this or for inspiration. I hope you enjoy today's Totally HOT Thursdays.

***I will not advertise where I found the pictures because they are on my site already in other blogs. Credit has been given.****

His Scottish accent makes me melt.

Mmm Hmm!!!!

Who doesn't love Hugh Jackman?

You are waiting for me?

I love his bedroom eyes.

CONTEST

2012-01-11T06:54:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

I am running a contest here at Heart of Romance. I am offering a $25 Barnes and Nobles gift card to one lucky winner! Let me explain to you what this contest is about.

I am wanting to generate more following here at Heart of Romance. I promote myself and other authors and I want to be able to do that to a larger audience. What do you have to do? Look around my blog, check out my interviews, articles, and Totally HOT Thursdays. If you like what you see, become a follower.

That's it. Anyone who becomes a follower from now until Jan. 31 is eligible to win. I will draw one lucky winner on Feb. 1st.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2012-01-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

If you have ever watched CSI Miami then you are going to recognize this handsome man. He is sexy, has bedroom eyes, and a voice that will melt your heart. *SIGH* Believe me, things are HOT in Miami!

Let me introduce you to:

ADAM RODRIGUEZ

BORN- April 2, 1975
PLACE- Yonkers, New York
PARENTS- Janet and Ramon Rodriguez
HAIR- Black
EYES- Brown

Adam is one quarter Cuban and three quarters Puerto Rican.

He began his acting career in commercials including a Coca Cola commercial. He has done episodes in TV shows such as Felicity, Law and Order, and NYPD Blue. Movie role was in Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All By Myself. You can also catch him in music videos such as Jennifer Lopez's If You Had My Love, Lionel Ritchie's I Call It Love, and many more.

www.411onsoaps.com

www.posters555.com

www.celebritiesheight.com

Want to pormote your work?

2012-01-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

2012 is a new year and I am here to help you start it off with a bang! Here at Heart of Romance, one of the things I do is Author interviews and book promotions.

If you are interested in being interviewed or a book promotion, please email me at sarah-hoss@hotmail.com. Please put HoR blog in the subject line.

Thank you and I hope we can work together!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-12-31T14:06:00.000-08:00

In seven hours, the clock will strike twleve in my town and the new year will begin. Out with the old and in the with new.

People set New Years resolutions. I have never been one to do such a thing. Why? Because I don't want to say I am going to do something and not make it happen. People always set the same goals.... lose weight, stop smoking, etc. Well, I don't smoke and I could lose some weight but that is a continuous thing isn't it?

So, I am going to spend next year continuing to do the right things, live life to the fullest, love to the best of my ability, and write my pants off!

If I have one thing that I wish for myself in the New Year, it is to get a contract and have my books published. Here's to hoping it happens. **cyber toast**

But if it doesn't, I will still continue to write and submit my work. Only way to get noticed is to put my novels out there.

My wish for you? To have a safe holiday. To encounter the New Year with good health, lots of love, and work to keep your hands busy, whatever it may be. I hope that your future is bright and you get all that you deserve.

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S TO YOU ALL!!!!
Hugs and Kisses!
Sarah Hoss

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-12-29T06:55:00.000-08:00

Okay, I will admit that I haven't been writing much on my blog lately. But I just can't seem to leave you hanging and not offer you Totally HOT Thursdays. Besides, I like searching for the pictures. LOL!

Today's hottie is none other than:
CHAD WHITE

Chad is a new face in the modeling world and I think that after you see his pictures, you will agree with me that he will be around for a long time.

BORN: In 1985 in Portland Oregon
HEIGHT: 6'2"
HAIR: Brown
EYES: Brown
COLLEGE- Played baseball in college and was drafted by the Majors, but that dream ended with an injury to his hand. He then joined the modeling world.

www.thefashionisto.com

Photographed by Mateo Felici

www.modelsandactorsfinders.blogspot.com

Photographed by Gregory Vaughn

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May love find you, may good health stay with you, and may PEACE for ever follow you.

ALSO- Don't forget to stop by Mare's Place and visit with me for a chance to win prizes. All you have to do is leave a comment to be eligible. It's Mare's ROMANCE COUNTDOWN TO 2012 and it happens all month long.
From Heart of Romance,
Sarah

Totally HOT Thursday

2011-12-22T06:11:00.000-08:00

I hope today finds you waking up to a wonderful morning. It's the Winter Solstice and winter has officially begun. Many more days of cold before us. Today is also the shortest day of the year.

Let me present you a man that will keep you warm and make those long cold nights MORE enjoyable!

May I present to you, Mr. JAMES GUARDINO!

STATS:

www.ifdb.com
I wonder what he is thinking behind those shades?

Age- 25
Height- 6'2'
Hair- Brown
Eyes- Hazel
Shoe- 11.5
Waist- 32
Inseam- 34
Chest- 42

www.polyvore.com
Umm.... I think it's time to lie down. ; )

Born in New York and he is the youngest of three boys. He has the word 'mother' written on his arm in tribute to his mother who passed away when he was young.

James began modeling when he walked into the Major Model Management and they signed him on the spot. You can find James in Joss Stone's SPOILED video.

He maintains his appearance my regular diets, exercise, and maintaining a positive attitude. On special occasions he likes to indulge in Taco Bell, brownies, and vanilla ice cream.

You can find James at http://www.facebook.com/pages/James-Guardino/155005647866725#!/pages/James-Guardino/155005647866725?sk=info.

www.ifdb.com

Who doesn't love a man in a suit and the 5 o'clock shadow is sexy!!!

www.polyvore.com

That bedroom look he gives would make any woman's heart flutter.

I hope you enjoyed today as much as I did. James is a beautiful man and I loved looking through all of his pictures. It was very hard choosing which ones I would use.

I hope you all have a wonderful day and I would like to wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Christmas gift ideas- part 2

2011-12-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago I presented you with the idea of giving books as Christmas gifts. If you will indulge me, I would like to present you with two more authors. I hope that you will look them up and read the blurbs, maybe even purchase their books. If you love to read like I do, then I think you will enjoy the works by these to ladies.

From Heart of Romance, I would like to wish you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

*********************************************************************************
KIM KILLION

MY CURSED
HIGHLANDER

“Kimberly Killion does it again!
My Cursed Highlander is wildly sexy and adventurous as a Highland lord hauls a recalcitrant Italian sculptress home to Scotland to remove a devastating curse on his clan.”

~MARY JO PUTNEY
New York Times Bestselling Author

Buy NOW!PRINT | KINDLE | NOOK

CARIBBEAN SCOT

A Scottish cave diver, desperate to save her clan from the cruelty of King James, joins forces with the man who abandoned her. They travel to the Caribbean in search of gold, but the fruits of an exotic paradise and the sinful kiss of a traitorous rogue tempt her away from her goal...

Buy NOW!
PRINT | KINDLE | NOOK

You can visit Kim Killion at www.kimberlykillion.com

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

NANCY BADGER

also writing as NANCY LENNAE

http://www.amazon.com/Love-to-the-Rescue-ebook/dp/B005QOUQWM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1320087231&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/DRAGON-IN-THE-MIST-ebook/dp/B005J5CY2S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1320087112&sr=8-1

You may also find Nancy Badger at her blog, www.nancylennae-inlove.blogspot.com.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-12-15T07:35:00.000-08:00

Today's Totally HOT Thursday comes to you in two parts. I am doing my usual handsome man but I am also going to add a woman to today's post. I hope you won't be disappointed in my choice this week, I know I wasn't!!!!

Please, sit back and enjoy and thanks for indulging me in the add on. Here's to you Derek!!!

So, to show that chivalry and manners aren't dead, we will let the lady go first. So, let me introduce you to.

HELENA CHRISTENSEN

BORN- Copenhagen Denmark
BIRTHDAY- Dec. 25, 1968
Father is Danish and Mother is Peruvian.
HEIGHT- 5'10"
HAIR- Brown
EYES- Blue/Green

Helena won the Miss Denmark title in 1986 and represented Denmark in the Miss Universe pageant in 1986. From there she went into modeling. As a child she wanted to be a musician.

In 1991, she starred in Chris Isaac's music video for Wicked Game.

www.impulsemagazine.net

www.facebook.com

www.celebritiesheight.com

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

Now, let me introduce you to:

SENDHIL RAMAMURTHY

BORN- May 17, 1974 in Chicago, IL
HOMETOWN- San Antonio
PARENTS- Immigrated to the US from India. Are in the medical field.
SIBLINGS- One sister- she is a doctor
MARRIED- Sorry ladies- he is married to actress Olga Sosnovska
KIDS- he has a daughter and a son

Sendhil went to Tufts Univ. to study pre-med. When he took an Intro to Acting class, he left and never looked back.

You will remember him on the hit shows HEROES and COVERT AFFAIRS.

www.lattesandlipstick.com

www.daemonstv.com

www.handson.provocateuse.com

HAPPY THURSDAY EVERYONE!

KISSES, SARAH

Christmas gift ideas- PART 1

2011-12-14T05:07:00.000-08:00

Do you know how many days are left until Christmas? 11. That's it. Just 11. Is your shopping done? Have you even started?

I am about half way done. I have bought all of the electronics I am going to buy and now it is time for the other things like clothes, toys, and BOOKS. One of the best gifts we can give, I think anyways, are books. My son loved it when I got him the complete set of "Gus and Grandpa" books. I love books. I love to read an dI can take a book with me anywhere and read. In a car, while I am cooking. Often my husband just shakes his head at me. LOL! I love to recieve and give books as gifts for Christmas and birthdays.

I wanted to leave you with some links to make shopping easy for you this year. And if you don't mind, some suggestions of authors too! I hope you will find a good book to read as you snuggled down under a warm blanket as the snow falls outside your window.

HERE IS PART 1!

From Heart of Romance, I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas!

***********************************************
VERONICA WOLFF

YOUNG ADULT

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/isle-of-night-veronica-wolff/1100484642?ean=9780451234629&itm=7&usri=veronica%2bwolff

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vampires-kiss-veronica-wolff/1102499736?ean=9780451235725&itm=1&usri=vampire%2bs%2bkiss%2bveronica%2bwolff

Blood Fever will be available August 2012.

CONTEMPORARY

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0425247953/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=verowolf-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0425247953

For a complete list of Veronica's book, please go to her web site at www.veronicawolff.com.

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

RENEE VINCENT

RAELIKSEN-http://www.turquoisemorningpressbookstore.com/search?q=renee+vincent

MAC LIAM-http://www.turquoisemorningpressbookstore.com/search?q=renee+vincent

THE FALL OF RAIN-http://www.turquoisemorningpressbookstore.com/products/the-fall-of-rain

SILENT PARTNER-http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/20665

To learn more about Renee and her books, please visit her at www.reneevincent.com.

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

MARGARET MALLORY

THE SINNER- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446583103/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=margaretmco06—20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0446583103

THE GUARDIAN- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/044657516X?ie=UTF8&tag=margaretmco06-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=044657516X

KNIGHT OF DESIRE- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446553395?ie=UTF8&tag=margaretmco06-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0446553395

KNIGHT OF PLEASURE- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446553387?ie=UTF8&tag=margaretmco06-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0446553387

KNIGHT OF PASSION- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446559865?ie=UTF8&tag=margaretmco06-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0446559865

For more information on Margaret and her books, please go to www.margaretmallory.com.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-12-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I am a HUGE fan of the soap opera, Days Of Our Lives! When this man resurrected his role as Austin Reed, I knew I wanted to post him and share him with you!

Here he is!

ww w.favoritehunks.blogspot.com

PATRICK MULDOON

A little bit about Pat!

HAIR- Black
EYES- Blue
BORN- September 27, 1968 in San Pedro, CA.
PARENTS- Born to a Coatian Mother, Deanna, and an Irish father, William who is a personal injury lawyer.

You will recognise Patrick in these T.V. shows and movies: (just to name a few)
Days of Our Lives- Austin Reed
Melrose Place- Richard Hart
Saved by the Bell- Jeffery Hunter
Starship Troopers- Zander Barcalow

www.310demoreels.com
Look at those eyes!

www.fanpop.com
Love the "come here" look!

www.perfectpeople.net
Wanna go for a swim?

The Fall of Rain

2011-12-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to my good friend, Author, RENEE VINCENT and the debut of her third book in the Emerald Isel Trilogy:

The Fall of Rain

Blurb:

Leif Dæganssen, an archeologist from Norway, is determined to trace back his Scandinavian roots as far as the Dark Ages and find proof of their existence on the Emerald Isle. After several years of living off the west coast of Ireland, he finally uncovers an ancient artifact—an intricately decorated chest with pagan carvings—buried beneath the very porch of his coastal cottage. Knowing it only confirms the presence of a glorified Norse-influenced settlement on Inis Mór, he’s determined to establish a link between himself and those who once inhabited the rugged isle.

For as long as she can remember, Lorraine O’Connor has had dreams of a Norse warrior kissing her. And even though she’s never fully understood the reason for her vivid subconscious imagination, she welcomes the meaningless and wanton pleasure of being in a Viking’s protective embrace—until the day she meets that brazen Northman on an impulsive vacation trip to Ireland.

Though blindsided by the relevance of her dreams and the strange familiarity of the man within them, Lorraine can’t help but feel a deep-seated intimacy toward Leif. And the more she gets to know him, the more she’s convinced they’ve shared a life together in a time long forgotten.

Are the clues to their ancestral past hidden within the contents of the chest or buried deep within their hearts?

Excerpt:

Leif laughed inwardly as he heard the lock engage. Lorraine was definitely an odd sort of female, with all her outlandish outbursts and peculiar reactions, but no less interesting. She had this way about her that made him pay close attention, made him want to pay close attention, else he might miss something. No woman had ever been able to do that to him.

He was not a man easily beguiled. ‘Exceedingly picky’ were Kristoff’s words on many occasions when they could’ve had a few choice opportunities with several of the women who entered Tí Joe Mac’s Pub in Kilronan. But he always found a way to stay clear of them. Either their hair was too short, their fingers too long, or they were excessively giggly over anyone who spoke Gaelic to them. No matter how beautiful they were to the eye, Leif always managed to find some flaw, an imperfection he couldn’t get passed.

The only imperfection Lorraine possessed, if he could call it that, was being unreadable. Even then, he couldn’t rightfully hold it against her. He was glad that she left him guessing, left him wondering what she’d say or do next. Every time he spoke to her, he had no idea what would come out of her mouth.

And what a pretty mouth it was.

Her lips were a delicate shade of rose and looked just as supple as the petals from which its color derived. He imagined they felt as soft and delicate in a kiss, and longed to taste them, to press his lips against her and savor every blessed moment of it while watching her eyes close in automatic response.

Oh, those eyes…

Their exquisite brilliance utterly entranced him. He couldn’t look away no matter how hard he tried. They shone as bright and vivid as the intrinsic color of an emerald, with flecks of lighter green pigments fissuring throughout.

Though he’d stared at them as if they were rare jewels tucked within the hilt of a Viking warrior’s ceremonially-bent sword, uncovered from a sacred burial site, he couldn’t help but feel he was gazing into something he’d known and seen before. Words could not describe what he felt, except that his longing was innate—as if her eyes and all its wonders had been engraved on him from years past.

Again, he laughed inwardly, reminding himself that his entire week had fallen into the epitome of the absurd. Between finding the carved chest of treasured antiquities buried beneath his porch to having a gorgeous woman bathe in his home, he could hardly believe his bizarre stroke of luck.

He quickly left the hallway and entered the kitchen, flipping the nearly burned fish in the pan. The unrelenting vision of her slick wet body clung to him like a wet blanket, drenched with his own lustful musings of what she’d feel like if he dared to touch her. At least, he was glad to know he was still a red-blooded man. As many times as Kristoff had ridiculed him for his lack of interest, tonight he didn’t have to ponder his gender. It was as plain as the nose on his face, and stuck out a bit further than he cared to admit.

Reaching down, he shifted himself, trying to award his erection some more room in his jeans, while cursing it all the same. “Now is not the time.”

“Not the time for what? Dinner?”

Leif turned at the sound of Lorraine’s voice, not expecting anyone to be behind him, and almost knocked the pan off the stove. He caught it by the handle, fortunately, steadying it before it slid off the edge.

“I take it you’re not used to a woman in your home,” she stated discernibly.

Heaving a sigh, he smiled. “How was your shower?”

“Exhilarating.”

I’m sure it was. “Good.” He rallied his best casual voice and turned back to the fish, still simmering on the stove. As he resumed cooking, he secretly regarded the way the small swell of her breasts put curves in his oversized T-shirt that her raincoat had once hidden. Though her dainty figure had been virtually swallowed up by his cotton drawstring sweats, he knew somewhere beneath all that fabric was an enticing set of feminine curves.

“Since my clothes were still damp, I hung them over the shower rod to dry,” she confessed. “I hope that’s all right.”

His grip tightened on the handle. The image of a lace-lined bra and delicate panties, hanging in his bathroom flashed in his mind and he could do little about the smile teasing the corners of his lips. Without facing her, he shrugged his shoulders, pretending he hardly cared and changed the subject. “I hope you’re hungry,” he replied, fisting a quartered lemon above the pan-seared cod and dousing it with lemon juice. “I’ve made enough for the whole village it seems.”

He thought he heard a slight chuckle, regretting that he’d probably missed the first opportunity to see her smile. But he kept to his mission of transferring the food to the two plates sitting on the adjacent counter. That little feat required more of his attention given he wasn’t much of a practiced chef.

“It smells delicious.”

Adding the final touches to the plate with a few island flowers he’d picked days ago—only because he heard from the more experienced chefs in Dublin’s pricey restaurants that presentation was everything—and a slice of soda bread on top, he turned around and caught her looking at him. Her eyes, however, did not meet his until they jumped up from a lower direction.

She cleared her voice and looked away, feigning that she had ever been looking at his arse. Leif was not a stupid man, nor did things often get passed him, but for her sake, he acted as if he were none the wiser.

“Please. Have a seat.”

She did as he suggested, wringing her hands in the extra T-shirt cloth at her waist.

She’s still nervous.

For that reason, he sat in the seat directly across from her instead of next to her where they could share the same corner of the table. Disappointed as he was, he refused to show it, keeping a keen eye on her facial expressions and body posture. At the present, she sat stiff-backed in the chair, her eyes fixed on the bounty of food he placed in front of her.

A quick grin teased her lips when she saw the white and yellow daisy garnishing the corner of her plate. She never said a word in regards to his makeshift embellishment, but the smile that hung about thereafter was enough for him.

She didn’t waste any time taking her first bite, closing her eyes as she pulled the fork from her mouth. Her shoulders melted and a slight hum reverberated from her lips.

“Does that mean it’s good?”

“Are you kidding?” she asked, her eyes nervously diverting from his the moment they met. “This is the best pan-seared fish I’ve ever had.”

He shook his head, forking his first bite. “Now I’m convinced you have a concussion.”

“I’m serious. I’ve never had fish like this before. Most times it’s fried to a crisp or bland as hell.”

“Well, I don’t know much about Kentucky, but I believe they’re known for their horses, not herbs.” He took another generous bite and waited. “That wasn’t funny?”

She mildly smiled and stuffed a piece of bread in her mouth. “You make a better cook than a comedian.”

“Ah, look at that. Give the small town Kentucky girl a hot shower and some food and she’s as good as new.”

Another smile. That one he was sure to catch.

“I don’t know about all that,” she replied uncertainly.

“Well, you’re gaining a bit of confidence. It’s good to know you’re less fearful of me.”

Her hand froze, her fork stuck in another cut of fish. “I don’t fear you, Leif. I just don’t know you.”

He set his utensil down and crossed his arms, eager to finally delve into a meaningful discussion. “What is it you’d like to know?”

I shied from his intrusive eyes, feeling the heat of his stare setting me ablaze.

He leaned in. “I know you are avoiding me because you feel ‘tis right. ‘Tis moral. ‘Tis safer. But you needn’t fear me.”

I took a deep breath. “I fear you not, Dægan. I simply know not enough about you.”

His face recoiled slightly as if my choice of words had stunned him. He released me and crossed his arms in front of him. “What would you like to know?”

“Rain?”

Leif’s voice caught her off guard and she looked around, confused, the name Dægan echoing in her ears. She blinked, staring at the man across from her, his face illustrating as much bewilderment as her own.

“You all right?” he asked, reaching for her hand.

Instantly, she pulled away, trying to gather her wits. It seemed she’d hear Leif’s words in the same minute she’d hear the exact same thing from a man by the name of Dægan.

What the hell was wrong with her? Why did she keep seeing things that weren’t really there or hear conversations from an unknown past, which were so akin to what she was talking about now?

“You blacked out for a moment,” he explained.

“I did?” The question came out of her mouth even though she knew she had gone somewhere else, somewhere that seemed like memories. It was as if she were having personal recollections of long ago, which involved her and a Norse warrior in some uncanny fashion.

“Yeah, you did. I asked you what you wanted to know about me, and suddenly, your eyes glazed over. You stared straight forward, but focused on nothing. Are you sure you’re all right? Perhaps we need to wake up the good doc.”

She fidgeted in her chair. The thought of a doctor looking her over and determining she was categorically crazy was not in her vacation plans. She tried to go back to her normal routine of eating, forking another bite of fish to prove to him, if not herself, he was overreacting. “Really, I’m fine. You shouldn’t worry. I just need to finish eating and get some rest. I’ve had a long day.”

Again, he didn’t look convinced. But what else could she say? She was as lost as he was when it came to her “blacking out” and no amount of pondering it could procure a logical explanation.

For the rest of the meal, they both lost their tongues for small talk and the only sound heard was the casual clinking of silverware on their plates. It was just as well, since neither seemed to know what to say anyway. Despite the great food and warm hospitality Leif had provided her, Lorraine wanted nothing more than to be alone. To lie down with her thoughts and hopefully be exhausted enough to sleep.

She prayed for sleep. Sleep without dreams. Somehow, as she glanced over at Leif looking at her in the most concerned way, she didn’t think she’d get her wish.

About The Author:

I am an author with a passionate interest in Irish and Norse history. I live in the rolling hills of Kentucky with my husband and two children on a beautiful secluded farm of horses and hay fields.

When I am not writing, I love to spend my time on the back of a horse, whether with my family or with my friends. There is nothing like feeling the sunlight on your face, the wind in your hair, and the power of the animal beneath you as you enjoy the beautiful scenery. Seeing the world from a saddle is, by far, the best view and the best therapy for a heavy heart or a troubled mind. My therapist's name, or my horse's, rather, is "Statues Suddenly Lucky", a full-blooded Tennessee Walker, and of course, he goes by the name of Lucky for short.

I am a sucker for a good cup of coffee (lots of cream and sugar...and whipped cream if I can get my hands on it), great conversation, and a lilting Irish accent. I love to read and I can't resist watching great epic historical movies.

Links:

Website: http://www.reneevincent.com

Blog: http://www.pasttheprint.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/reneevincentauthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ReneeVincent

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3005290.Renee_Vincent

Deep In The Heart Romance: http://www.deepintheheartromance.com/

Publisher:

Turquoise Morning Press http://www.turquoisemorningpress.com/

Organizations:

Romance Writers of America http://www.rwanational.org/

Kentucky Romance Writers http://www.kentuckyromancewriters.com/

Ohio Valley Romance Writers http://www.ovrwa.com/

Celtic Hearts Romance Writers: http://www.celtichearts.org/

Hearts Through History: http://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/

Reviews:

Ræliksen

*Winner of two categories by Love Romances Café

“Best Book Cover 2010”

“Best Historical 2010”

“This book and author earn my highest recommendations and I feel privileged to have read one of the best. It is a must read for any lover of historical romance or even lovers of romance in general.”
~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“…this story is realistic, historically accurate and unforgettable; a story you will remember long after the last page is read.”

~ 5 Blue Ribbons! ~ Romance Junkies

“Every word of this story has meaning. Every moment leads to the next. Every word is simultaneously natural and brilliant, each one holding an unmistakable place in history with the telling of this tale.”

~ Author Sarah Ballance

Mac Liam

*Winner of the “5 Heart Sweetheart” Award

from The Romance Studio

“It comes alive and winds its way into your heart. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical romance and I cannot wait to read the final book of the trilogy as this story has stayed with me days after I read the last word.”

~ 5 Hearts ~ The Romance Studio

“I will admit to being skeptical that this story would capture me as much as the first had, but I was blown away by the awesomeness that is Mac Liam. Ms. Vincent surpassed all of my expectations with her impressive writing abilities, while offering more incites and revelations that will keep readers coming back for more.”

~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“The steadfast, true love Ms. Vincent creates in Mac Liam takes one’s breath away.

A memorable, satisfying story!”
~ 4.5 Books ~ Long And Short Reviews

Silent Partner

"Ms. Vincent’s writing has the unique ability of capturing both the reader’s heart and mind… I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this story and would love to see it become a movie. Another highly recommended read by Renee Vincent!"

~ "5 Star TOP PICK" ~ Night Owl Reviews

Her writing sparkles, and given this is the author’s first attempt at contemporary mainstream romance, she creates the right impact for settings, pace and conflict. Her balance of the self-absorbed hero meeting emotionally challenged heroine is stunning because of her research into the heroine’s background. This book is a keeper."
~ "LASR BEST BOOK" ~ Long And Short Reviews

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

FRIDAY 56: ROLLING THUNDER

By: Cassie Edwards

Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Post any sentence from that page (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog. (If you do not have your own blog) post it in the comments section of this blog.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

Tanzey's breath was stolen and her insides felt warm and melting when she found the Indian of her fascination there, his midnight dark eyes momentarily locked with hers.

Again she saw something in his eyes besides a loathing. It was a look of wonder; a look that revealed to Tanzey that he most surely was as intrigued with her as she was with him.

*******

Heart of Romance credits FREDA'S VOICE for the Friday 56 meme.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-12-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday and do I have a cutie for you or what?

I saw this young man in Leona Lewis's video, Bleeding Love, and I knew I had to post him right away.

Let me introduce you to NICHOLAS LEMMONS!

BORN- in Moscow, Idaho

www.trendnista.com

HOME STATE- Kentucky
MODLES FOR- Armani, Dolce and Gabana, and many more
HEIGHT- 6' 1"
HAIR- Brown
EYES- Blue
CHEST- 40
SHOE SIZE- 11

www.ohlalaparis.com
Anyone for a swim?

www.homotography.blogspot.com
Stunning!!!

http://youtu.be/Vzo-EL_62fQ Click on this link to see Nicholas in Leona Lewis's video, Bleeding Love.

Romance Countdown To 2012

2011-11-30T12:36:00.000-08:00

We all love December. The snow, the cheer, the music, the decorations, the food, gathering with the ones we love, and let's not forget selebrating Jesus's birth!

No matter what your is for loving December, you know you have to admit that the closer Christmas gets, the more excited you become. The kid in us never really leaves, we just have more practice at hiding the excitement... LOL!

Let me tell you how YOU can have Christmas EVERY day for the month of December. That's right..... every day!!!

See that little yellow box over in the left hand column titled "Romance Countdown To 2012"? Click on that box and it will take you to Marilyn Wigglesworth's blog, Jaguar Warriors, and there she is hosting this event.

Here's how it works:

Every day of the month, Marilyn will have a post from a different author. Read the post and then leave a comment and your email address. It's that simple!!!!

Here is a great way to learn about new authors and find some great books. But books aren't the only thing you could win. You will have to stop by everyday to see what prizes are being offered and if you enter more than one day, you can be entered to win the BIG basket of goodies. And remember, somedays have more than one aithor listed so that's TWO ways to win.

This isn't just about winning the prises though. We really do hope you will enjoy reading these posts and hopefully find a new author to read!!!!!

SO- don't forget!!! Contest starts Dec. 1 and runs through Dec. 31. You must leave a comment, a name and an email address to be eligible. Enter more than one day to be eligible for the BIG basket of goodies so you will have to come back more that one day.

Here is the list of days and authors.
Dec. 1- Angela Scavone and Cheryl Yeko

Dec. 2- Char Chaffin and Dawn Ireland

Dec. 3- Kristi Lea and Elle Hill/ Lesleigh Owens

Dec. 4- Casey Wyatt/ Christine Wunch and B.J. Scott

Dec. 5- J.L. Bowen/ Mary Guida

Dec. 6- Deena Remiel

Dec. 7- Kallypso Masters

Dec. 8- Maeve Greyson

Dec. 9- Caridad Scordato

Dec. 10- Jessica Aspen

Dec. 11- Cari Quinn

Dec. 12- Renee Vincent

Dec. 13- Karen Cote

Dec. 14- Cathryn Fox

Dec. 15- Nikki Duncan

Dec. 16- Misty Evans

Dec. 17- Sharon Buchbinder

Dec. 18- Hillary Seidl

Dec. 19- Kimberly Killion

Dec. 20- Adriana Kraft

Dec. 21- Laura Kaye

Dec. 22- Eliza Knight

Dec. 23- Zoe Archer

Dec. 24- Marilyn Wigglesworth

Dec. 25- Lizzie Walker and Sarah Hoss

Dec. 26- Karen Kay

Dec. 27- Nicole North

Dec. 28- Kendra James and Teri Gilbert

Dec. 29- Cynthia Owens

Dec. 30- Mary Guida

Dec. 31- Kate Douglass

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-24T08:52:00.000-08:00

www.rlyoung.blogspot.com

This is a time to reflect and say what we are thankful for all of the things in our lives. This list below is mine.

HUSBAND AND CHILDREN
FRIENDS
CRITIQUE PARTNERS
FAMILY
HOME
HEALTH
LOVE
RWA
CELTIC HEARTS

I am lucky to have all of these things in my life and every one of them is vital to my every day well being and my ability to do what I love which is write. I hope that, today, if not every day you are able to spend time with the ones you love and that peace and joy follow you!

From Heart of Romance to you, I leave you with one simple but wonderful picture for your Totally HOT Thursday!! ENJOY!

Matthias Strietwiesser

Interview with Author, BETH TRISSEL

2011-11-21T05:56:00.000-08:00

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR Beth Trissel

Today I’m interviewing Beth Trissel. Her novella, Somewhere the Bells Ring, a vintage American ghost story Christmas romance, was released on Nov 9^th by the Wild Rose Press.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Thanks for having me on your lovely blog, Sarah. Somewhere the Bells Ring is set in the gracious old Virginia home place, circa 1816, in the Shenandoah Valley where my father was born and raised and I grew up visiting during the holidays. Nostalgia over the late 1960’s inspired the time period and the story opens during the tumultuous age of hippies, Vietnam, and some of the best darn rock music ever written. From 1968, the story flashes back to an earlier era, 1918 and the end of World War One. Having a Marine Corps Captain Grandfather who distinguished himself in France during the thick of the fighting and then tragically died when my father was only three definitely influenced this story. I’ve dedicated it to him. If you enjoy an intriguing mystery with Gothic overtones set in vintage America and heart-tugging romance then Somewhere the Bells Ring is for you. Oh, and did I mention the ghost? I always did think that house was haunted.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

I write both light paranormal ghost story/time travel romances in my ‘Somewhere’ series and historical romance, so write for two different lines and senior editors at The Wild Rose Press. The common thread in all my stories is my fascination with the past.

When did you start writing toward publication?

16 years ago. I wrote for 12 + years before my first book, Somewhere My love, was published.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?
Yes, I had four or five completed manuscripts before the first one was published and ooodles of rejections from agents/editors. I was faring well in the contest circuit, though, including a Golden Heart final, and had finally landed a good NY editor, but she couldn’t sell my work to traditional New York Publishers, so I said goodbye and submitted to the Wild Rose Press in 2008. So far, they’ve been very enthusiastic about everything I submit. I’m a big fan of TWRP and have no plans to go anywhere else, unless I write something they don’t publish at some point. If that happens I’ll probably publish it myself. I did that with a work of nonfiction about country life—it finaled in the EPPIES! As did my historical romance Red Bird’s Song. Quite a thrill.

Her old family home where the story takes place.

Why have you become a published author?
To share my stories with the world.

Do you have any rejection stories to share?
Literally hundreds. I think I must have queried every agent out there at some point, and a number of editors. For ages a ‘good’ rejection letter, the personal kind with a pat on the back along with the inevitable ‘but’ was as good as it got.

What is your writing routine like?
I used to have one. With five grandbabies living nearby, now I just write whenever I can.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?
I wish. I do interviews, like this one, guest blog in addition to being an avid blogger myself, belong to facebook, twitter, triberr, authorsden, sometimes pay for advertisements on popular romance review sites…always on the prowl.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

Positive feedback from readers and stellar reviews. I really don’t want to hear about it if you think I’ve written the worst book you’ve ever read. And yes, I’ve gotten a few of those from readers too. It’s all part of the journey.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped.
RWA (forever) Virginia Romance Writers, Celtic Heart Romance Writers online group, The Wild Rose Press loop…to name the most important ones. The workshops, writing tips, support, and guidance from these groups has been invaluable.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?
Don’t give up. Keep on writing. Hone the craft, better your skills. Someday, someway, you will make it.

What’s next for you?
I recently turned in a historical romance novel to my WRP historical editor and am awaiting word. It’s the third story in my colonial frontier trilogy, the sequel to Through the Fire. And now, I’m at work on my next light paranormal/time travel romance, the sequel to Somewhere My Lass.

BLURB for Somewhere the Bells Ring:

Caught with pot in her dorm room, Bailey Randolph is exiled to a relative's ancestral home in Virginia to straighten herself out. Banishment to Maple Hill is dismal, until a ghost appears requesting her help. Bailey is frightened but intrigued. Then her girlhood crush, Eric Burke, arrives and suddenly Maple Hill isn't so bad.

To Eric, wounded in Vietnam, his military career shattered, this homecoming feels no less like exile. But when he finds Bailey at Maple Hill, her fairy-like beauty gives him reason to hope--until she tells him about the ghost haunting the house. Then he wonders if her one experiment with pot has made her crazy.

As Bailey and Eric draw closer, he agrees to help her find a long-forgotten Christmas gift the ghost wants. But will the magic of Christmas be enough to make Eric believe--in Bailey and the ghost--before the Christmas bells ring?~

Excerpt:
“Bailey.” He spoke softly, so as not to startle her.

She turned toward him. In her long, white nightgown, hair tumbled down around her, wearing that lost look, she bore an unnerving resemblance to the mysterious woman in Wilkie Collins’ classic mystery, The Woman in White. Eric fervently hoped the similarity ended there. As he recalled from the novel, that unfortunate lady had been unhinged.

Leaving the door ajar, he stepped inside. “We missed you at breakfast.”

She answered distractedly. “I wasn’t hungry.”

He limped to where she stood, the hitch in his leg a little less pronounced today. Maybe he was getting stronger. “Why are you here, looking for ghosts?”

“Or a door to the past.”

He tried to coax a smile to her trembling lips. “Did you check inside the wardrobe?”

“Eric, I’m being serious.”

“That’s what worries me.” Leaning on his cane with one arm, he closed his other around her shoulders and drew her against him. Such a natural act, and she accepted his embrace without pulling back. She smelled of flowers from her perfume and wood smoke. “Mercy, child,” he said in his best imitation of Ella, “it’s as cold as a tomb in here.”

“It wasn’t last night.”~

How can my readers buy your book?
Somewhere the Bells Ring is available in various eBook formats at The Wild Rose Press and will travel onto Amazon kindle, Barnes & Noble’s nookbook and other online booksellers. For more on me and my work please visit:

My website: www.bethtrissel.com

My blog: http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/

I WON!

2011-11-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

That's right!

Do you remember me telling you a month or two ago that I had entered my novella, HEAVEN SENT, in the Celtic Hearts Romance Writers new contest, Novellas Need Love Too!

Well, I did. I entered it in the contemporary category. I received news in October that I had finaled. From there, they sent it and the other two finalist's work over to Grace Bradley of Ellora's Cave.

Today, we were notified of how we did and my novella won first place in my category!!!

I am sooo excited. This is the third time I have ever entered a contest, the first time with this story and the first time I have ever finaled or won!!!!

I want to list to you know all of the finalists and winners and to say CONGRATULATIONS to them all! I am proud to be listed among them!

EROTIC (Kelli Collins, Ellora's Cave)

1. Going Up (full requested) - Susan Shellabarger

2. Wildfire (full requested) - Susan Shellabarger

3. Wildkat (full requested) - Susan Shellabarger

4. Hurricane Winds - Jaimie Bergeron

HISTORICAL (Mary Hamilton, Samhain)

1. An Honorable Seduction - Karen R. Dobbins

2. The Seduction of Sarah Banks - Kathleen Bittner Roth

3. A Shocking Proposal - Melinda B. Pierce

PUBLISHED (Gina Bernal, Carina)

1. A Little Bit Wicked (full requested) - Liz Talley

2. Picture Me Hot (full requested) - Mary A. Behre

3. Sword of Elements - Camryn Rhys

PARANORMAL (Imogen Howson, Samhain)

1. Savage Protector - Amity Grays

2. Unlikely Protector - Amity Grays

3. The Ghost Who Came to Dinner - Alisa Walker

CONTEMPORARY (Grace Bradley, Ellora's Cave)

1. Heaven Sent - Sarah Hoss

2. Cookies for Santa - Valerie Clarizio

3. Chocolate on Her Sleeve - Barbara Heintz

DISTINGUISHED NOVELLA AWARD (Heather Osborn, Samhain)

Going Up by Susan Shellabarger

INTERVIEW with Author, Pat McDermott

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Pat McDermott

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR PAT McDERMOTT

Today I’m interviewing Pat McDermott. Her book, Glancing Through the Glimmer, a young adult romantic adventure set in an Ireland that might have been, debuts today.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

Thanks so much for hosting me and my new release today, Sarah. Glancing Through the Glimmer is the young adult “prequel” to my “Band of Roses” trilogy (A Band of Roses, Fiery Roses, and Salty Roses), coming in 2012 from MuseItUp Publishing. I’d already written the trilogy (the first two books will be re-releases) when an acquaintance suggested the YA angle. I found I loved writing about my “Roses” characters as teenagers. The Scottish legend of Tam Lin and the Irish myths surrounding Finvarra, the King of the Connaught Fairies helped inspire the story, which takes place in a modern Ireland ruled by kings descended from High King Brian Boru. The title is a phrase from The Fairy Thorn, an old Irish poem by Samuel Ferguson about four “merry maidens fair in kirtles of the green” whose evening stroll is ruined by thieving fairies.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

I dislike genre rules, as I dabble in a bit of everything. Most of my stories contain elements of fantasy, action/adventure, sci-fi, and romance. Glancing Through the Glimmer is no exception.

When did you start writing toward publication?

Not until my kids were grown. I have great respect for writers who juggle the jobs of writing and parenting. I’ve written short stories and attended writing classes over the years, but my kids were in college before I pursued publication. I worked up the courage to enter a short story in the 74th Writer’s Digest Annual Writing competition and received an Honorable Mention for children’s fiction. That award gave my confidence a serious boost, enough to finish my first novel, A Band of Roses.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?

My first novel was under contract before I finished the second. I have four under contract now, all submitted without an agent.

Why have you become a published author?

Because of a combination of persistence, networking, finding a publisher who liked my stories, and good luck—though I believe the first three factors conjured that good luck.

Do you have any rejection stories to share?

What writer doesn’t? I attended a lecture by a noted author who said that after successfully publishing stories for over thirty years, she still receives rejections. I once had a drawer full of rejection letters from agents and publishers. A writing teacher warned me to expect them, though I still found the initial batch of barely legible form letters discouraging. The nicer rejections, more personal and actually signed, stated that my book wasn’t for them but encouraged perseverance. I recently cleaned out that drawer. Tore up the letters and tossed them out. It felt wonderful.

What is your writing routine like?

I try to write every day, usually early in the morning when it’s quiet and my only interruptions are a cat or two in need of a hug. Whether I’m starting something new or revising pages I’ve already written, I find that quiet time of day most productive. I spend time in the afternoon reading for research or pleasure, usually with a cat or two in my lap. On Monday evenings, I host a writers’ group, which gives me a deadline to finish a chapter or two each week. For most of the year, I attend a writing class on Tuesday evenings.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?

I wish I had help. The promotional aspect of writing bewilders me. I’ve attended book marketing seminars and did a couple of book signings, and I loved that a local readers’ group chose A Band of Roses as their book-of-the-month and invited me to be their guest author. Great fun. I wish I could say the same for the rest of the marketing process. Marketing is important, yes, but I’m happier creating stories. Right now, I’m promoting Glancing Through the Glimmer through my web site, blog, and online interviews, by word of mouth, and through various internet sites.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

Having my kids think I’m smart? Seriously, I loved holding my published novel in my hands for the first time, and that’s a response with which I think most authors would agree.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

I am a member of the New Hampshire Writers' Project, Seacoast Writers' Association, Romance Writers of America, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. Then there’s Sip, my Monday night writers’ group, a key writing organization for me.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?

You’re the only one with the ultimate vision of the story you’re trying to tell. Don’t let anyone talk you out of it. Join a writers' group, take classes or workshops, and never stop reading. Go out on a limb and read books you wouldn’t ordinarily read. To paraphrase an Oliver Wendell Holmes quote, a mind stretched by a new idea never returns to its original dimensions. Don’t be afraid other authors will influence your personal style. And exercise those writing muscles! The more you write, the easier it is to get your vision onto a printed page. Set goals and deadlines for yourself, and meet them. Persevere in your quest to become a published author, and enjoy the ride!

What’s next for you?

I’m sprucing up the sequel to Glancing Through the Glimmer. Liam and Janet return in Autumn Glimmer for a Halloween weekend they’ll never forget.

BOOK BLURB

In the modern Kingdom of Ireland, few mortals believe in the fairy folk. Without that belief, the fairies are dying. Finvarra, the King of the Fairies, would rather dance than worry—but he must have a mortal dancing partner.

When Janet Gleason’s grandfather becomes the new U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, the sixteen-year-old orphan must leave Boston and her friends behind. Janet is lonely in Dublin and unused to her grandparents’ stuffy social life. An invitation to a royal ball terrifies her. She can’t even waltz and dreads embarrassment. Finvarra’s fairy witch overhears her fervent wish to learn to dance.

Seventeen-year-old Prince Liam Boru loathes the idea of escorting another spoiled American girl to a ball. In fact, he detests most of his royal duties. He dresses down to move through Dublin unnoticed and finds himself on his royal backside when Janet crashes into him. Intrigued, he asks to see her again, and she willingly agrees. Unaware of each other’s identities, they arrange to meet. When they do, the fairies steal Janet away.

Liam’s attempts to find her trigger a series of frustrating misadventures. Can he and Janet outwit a treacherous fairy king who’s been hoodwinking mortals for centuries?

A little bit about the author

Born and educated in Boston, Massachusetts, Pat grew up in a family full of music and myths that have found their way into her stories. She lives near the New Hampshire seacoast with her husband and three devious Tonkinese cats. Her favorite non-writing activities include hiking, reading, cooking, and traveling, especially to Ireland.

Excerpt

The first time Liam slipped and fell, he cursed the rain-damp grass. He blamed his second tumble on his haste to catch up with Janet. What on earth had possessed the girl to run off like that? She couldn’t possibly want to find music that badly.

Music only she could hear.

The third time he lost his balance, he’d swear someone had pushed him, but no one was there. He landed on his hands and knees and cursed again. He might not be a muscleman, but he was far from a clumsy dolt. A lifetime of sports and outdoor treks had surely left him fit enough to climb a scrubby little hillside.

Something strange was afoot.

I’m being ridiculous. The breeze must have kept him from hearing the music she heard. She’d likely gone after the owner of whatever was playing the tune to learn its name.

Yet the Nose of Howth seemed deserted. How odd for a sunny Sunday morning. Even if Janet had gone off seeking the source of the music, no amount of rationalizing could explain why she’d left so abruptly. The chilling sense that she was in danger had Liam’s heart thumping high in his throat.

Should he call his cousin? If Kevin was still on the pier, it would take him a while to get here. And practical Kevin would surely think Liam astray in the head.

Maybe he was, but something told him he had to find Janet, and fast. Keeping close to the ground as if he were dodging radar, he clambered monkey-like up the hill. This time he reached the top of the rise. Lumps in the landscape surrounded him, clumps of rock and rolling masses of heather and gorse that encircled the level spot where he stood. He knew the place well. Except for the curious lack of weekend hill walkers, nothing seemed amiss.

“Janet!”

He listened hard. A seagull cried in the distance. Otherwise, all was silent. No, wait! Music drifted toward him, a plucky harp tune he might have enjoyed under different circumstances. Was that what Janet had heard?

Where was it? He turned in a circle, squinting in the sunlight, scanning, straining to hear. When he returned to the spot where he’d started, a jolt of fear set his pulse racing.

A round stone hut had appeared on the highest part of the clearing. Its low thatched roof rose to a ridiculously high point. It resembled a roundhouse, the sort of dwelling that belonged in a prehistoric ring fort.

Or a fairy fort.

Liam swallowed hard. He’d seen replicas of such huts in Ireland’s folk parks. He’d also viewed ruins of the original ring forts, all that remained of the structures built by the mysterious peoples who’d lived and died in Ireland thousands of years ago.

Where had this one come from? Why was it on the Nose of Howth? Liam had never seen it before, nor had he heard of any gimmicky tourism plans for the cliff walk. Of course, he didn’t know everything. Convincing himself that he’d failed to see the hut at first because the sun had blinded him, he ventured toward the structure.

He spotted a doorway and relaxed. Janet was there, speaking to a woman wearing a period costume, medieval or older. That’s what it was, he thought: tourism come to tarnish Howth. How could Uncle Peadar have allowed such nonsense?

Liam called Janet’s name again, but neither she nor the woman showed any sign that they’d heard him. The wind must have carried his voice away. He stalked toward the roundhouse. As he approached, the costumed woman placed a necklace over Janet’s head.

The roundhouse flickered, faded, and reappeared. Alarmed, Liam stopped. This was no tourist gimmick. As his thoughts scrambled for an explanation, the woman grabbed Janet’s arm and pulled her into the hut.

“Janet, no!” His ferocious roar proved useless. Unbelievably, the roundhouse began to dissolve. No longer doubting his horrified senses, he dove at the hut and charged through the disappearing door.

The world around him melted away.

How can my readers buy your book?

Readers can visit the book’s buy page on the MuseItUp Publishing site:

Glancing Through the Glimmer Page

You can find more information about Pat and Glancing Through the Glimmer by

visiting her web site: http://www.patmcdermott.net

Writing/Travel Blog (Put the Kettle On): http://pat-mcdermott.blogspot.com

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pat.mcdermott1

Facebook page for Glancing Through the Glimmer (feel free to “Like” it!):

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/www.patmcdermott.net

MuseItUp Author Page: http://museituppublishing.com/musepub/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=168&Itemid=82

MuseItUp Bookstore Page for Glancing Through the Glimmer:

https://museituppublishing.com/bookstore2/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=224&category_id=69&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1

My cooking blog (Kitchen Excursions): http://kitchenexcursions.blogspot.com

UPDATE on NaNoWriMo

2011-11-07T05:30:00.000-08:00

Well, we are into day 7 of NaNoWriMo and I am having a great time. I have been writing and trying to keep up with the 1600 word count. Not an easy task since I am working on book two in my series and trying to keep up with that 1000 word count.

I sometimes wonder if I can be THAT creative? LOL.... we will see.

My first priority is the series. But, I am having a great time challenging myself doing NaNoWriMo.

If you are participating in it also, I want to wish you GOOD LUCK!!!!!!

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-11-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

I don't know about all of you, but I watch reality T.V. Not all of them. I love Amazing Race and Survivor. And today's THT hunk comes from Survivor.

Every Wednesday, we get to see this gentleman on our sets. His naturally curly locks, tanned skin, and beautiful eyes pull you in. His cunning ability to make his way through this show keeps you coming back for more. Even his days old beard stubble is attractive.

www.digitalspy.com

Let me introduce you to:

Ozzy Lutsh

Full name- Oscar Lutsh
Birth date- August 23, 1981
Place- Guanajuato, Guanajuato Mexico
Famous for- Three time Survivor contestant. Cook Islands, Micronesia, and South Pacific

www.seat42f.com

www.buddytv.com

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

I want to take a moment and wish you all a very safe and Happy HALLOWEEN!

May your treats be plenty and the tricks be few!!!!

Love,
Sarah

I attended my first writers conference!

2011-10-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, I attended the New Jersey Romance Writers "Put Your Heart In A Book" conference. It was my first ever and I have to tell you that I was a little nervous. I wasn't sure what to expect.

It had been a long time since I had been on a plane too, so I was a little nervous about that also. But, thank goodness, my flights went well and even had the chance to fly into Philly with one of my CP's, Melissa. That made it easier and more fun. We flew into Philly because our other CP, Lizzie, works there and she picked us up at the airport. It was great to see these two ladies again.

The conference was packed with workshops, authors, and women vying for the same dream as I have. To learn what we can, meet new people and the chance to pitch our work to agents and editors. Everyone I met was friendly and had wonderful stories to share about their lives and their journeys as a writer.

For instance, while in line to pitch, there was a woman standing across from me. She was half my size and held a cane in her hand. Her smile lit up the room and we couldn't help but talk to her. One lady asked her what she wrote.
"Sweet, contemporary romance," she said, beaming with pride.
Another lady asked her her age and with a sparkle in her eye, she answered, "I'm 91."

We were amazed. I would have never guessed her age. She looked at us ladies and said, "I am published eight times with Avon and my first book was published when I was 80, so you girls keep writing. It's never to late."

I thought about her often and the words she said to us. It made my goal and dreams even more reachable because I know there is no deadline. When I was sitting in a class and looked around, I saw her again and I wanted to thank her for her words of wisdom. I didn't have the opportunity since class began, but I can tell you she will never be forgotten by me. Just goes to show you that you are never to old to follow your dreams!!!!

Jacquelyn Franks and I

My other experiences in the conference are just as memorable. I took classes taught by Brenda Novak, Jacquelyn Franks, and Cara Elliot. Amazing women!!!I also met one of my favorite Authors, Hannah Howell. Suzanne Brockmann gave us a wonderful speech at one of our meals and it left a few of us in tears. Words of wisdom to be sure! I also have to say that the women I mentioned were very down to earth and so friendly! Lizzie, Melissa, and I had the best time getting to know Jackie and I can tell you.... she can dance!!!

The classes I took were very helpful. How to make your hero sound more like a man, How to make your historical come to life, How to get the most our of your CP's, contests, and workshops, World Building, etc. The choices were many and I had a hard time choosing.

Hannah Howell and I

On Saturday, I pitched to agent, Jennifer Didik, and editor, Latoya Smith. Wonderful ladies and they made me feel very comfortable which was very helpful since I was excited and only had ten minutes with each lady to do what needed to be done. In the end, one asked for a partial and the other for the full manuscript. SUCCESS!!!!! My goal had been accomplished.

I also had the chance to meet some of the women from my Celtic Hearts group. After having these ladies live within my computer for a year or two, it was great to finally get to meet them in person. I want to thank Terri Brisbin, Eliza Knight, and Kim Killion for making me not feel like a first timer and for being so warm and friendly in person as they have always been on line!

Brenda Novak and I

So, now as my life gets back to normal and I begin the process of sending the requested work to Ms. Didik and Ms. Smith, I sit back and relish the experiences I had. I am lucky to have been able to go and thankful for the opportunity. I look forward to the RT conference in April and can't wait to see what might happen there. If you have never attended a conference before, I highly recommend it. The experience is unbelievable. If you have attended one, then you will know what I am talking about.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing my first time conference experience with me and I hope to meet you at the next one!

TOTALLY HOT THURSDAYS

2011-10-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

My children were watching the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie and as I stole glances at it, I noticed this handsome young fellow tied to a pole on the Queen Anne's Revenge. He played the preacher. I won't say anymore, just in case you haven't seen the movie!

Please, let me introduce you to:

www.designscene.net

SAM CLAFLIN

NAME- Samuel George Claflin
BIRTH- June 27, 1986
PLACE- Ipswich, Suffolk, UK

There wasn't a whole lot of information on this gentleman, I am sorry! BUT I loved him in his roll as Philip Swift in Pirates and I think he is way too cute for words! I hope you enjoyed today's post.

www.imdb.com

www.m.digitalspy.com

HOT DAMN DESIGNS sale

2011-10-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

‎50% OFF Sale going on NOW! We’ve designed our 400th cover which is a huge milestone! We have over 200 clients to date and are working with multiple agents in NY as well as publishers. We continue to grow due to the support of people like you!

To thank you all for your support, we are having a 2 day sale (Oct. 26 and 27). All stock images on www.HotDamnStock.com is now 50% off.

Enjoy and happy shopping!!!

HOT DAMN Stock!

www.HotDamnStock.com

Hot Damn Stock - Selling the latest in romance novel stock images.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-10-20T05:13:00.000-07:00

Today's Totally HOT Thursday is brought to you by the lovely Lizzie Walker. My friend and critique partner sent me an email with this man's picture in it and said he needed to be my next THT. And boy was she right!!!

Let me introduce you to:

www.photobucket.com

Christopher Douglas

HEIGHT- 6 foot
EYES- Green
HAIR- Brown
MARITAL STATUS- Married to Darcy
HONORS- Selected as one of YM Magazines most beautiful guys.
BIRTHDATE- 8/26/1969
HOMETOWN- Knoxville, TN

Christopher lives in Montana with his wife on a farm where they raise horses. He enjoys performing in rodeos riding saddle bronc in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. In August of 2008, while tending to a sick horse, Christopher was kicked in the face and suffered a broken jaw.

He attended the University of Tennessee where he studied medicine.

www.trialx.com

He started his modeling career doing photo shoots with Gianna Versace and famed photographer, Bruce Weber.

From there, he went on to star in movies 'Assualt on Devil's Island' (1997) (TV) and 'Playing Mona Lisa' (2000). He then starred in The Young and the Restless for 7 months (2001). Afterwards, he went to play the role of Antonio Lopez Fitzgerald on Passions for three years.

Christopher has a deep respect for and fascination with his Native American heritage. His mother's family is Eastern Cherokee.

Was war paint worn in battle in Scotland?

2011-10-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

In June of this year, I went to Michigan for a Writer's Weekend with my two critique partners. We spent a week writing, editing, plotting, and having fun too! While we were there, we went to the St. Andrews Society of Detriot's Kilgour Scottish Center. They were very generous with their time and knowledge. One of the things they gave to us was a pamphlet of their upcoming Scottish Highland Games. On the cover was a man's face painted white and blue to look like the Scottish flag. This got me to thinking.

When we think of Scotland, many images come to our minds and one of those images is the man with the blue face. Mel Gibson brought to life the painted face in the movie Braveheart and even thought the movie was historically incorrect on somethings, was it incorrect on the face painting? The blue man in synonymous with Scotland, but when men went to war, did they wear war paint?

In researching, it was discovered that war paint was not used in the High Middle Ages (1000-1300) or in the Late Middle Ages (1300-1500). The Wallace/Murray uprisings took place during the Wars of Independence (1290s). At that time, the Anglo-Normans formed a very powerful part of the aristocracy of not only England, but also Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Their manners of dressing and their armour, weapons, and war tactics were the norm for this period. So, there would have been no war paint.

No poetry that had been read mentioned war paint, though they did mention the naming of their weapons and the bravery of their people. Now, if we are talking about the Picts, than this could be a different scenario. The Picts are a historical people recorded from A.D. 300-900, the Early Middle Ages. It is believed they were separated from the British speaking people since 2nd century A.D. They may have been tattooed or painted blue.

We have to remember that legends are built off of some facts. So, even though I don't believe that men in Scotland wore war paint into battle, I do think there could be something to this story. Tell me what you think of this idea.

With war comes injuries, and we know that they would have had some sort of medical supplies with them, even if they were homemade. We know that Indigo was used as a blue dye and an antiseptic. Blueberries or blaeberries (aka bilberries) also have antiseptic properties because of their tannins. So, I think it is safe to say that if a man had had an injury, they may have used one one these items to sop infection and therefore giving the man the appearance of wearing war paint.

And, when one day in the future, a Grandpa is sitting in front of the fire with his grandson on his knee telling a story of his days in the wars, he may have said something like this. "And there I am, creeping up the hill on my belly and just as I am peeking over the top, I come face to face with a man who had blue paint on his face. Nearly scared me to death!"

***I would like to thank Sharon Gunn for her help in the research of this subject.***

Novellas Need Love Too! contest

2011-10-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

I promised to write back and bring to you the names of the finalists in the Novellas Need Love Too! Contest. I am still very excited to have finaled and knowing that my manuscript is now in the hands of an Editor is even more exciting.

I loved writing HEAVEN SENT. It was fun and endearing and it flowed easily from my mind. I never had to struggle to figure out what to write next. Hopefully one day you all will be able to read my little piece if heaven.

Now, with out taking any more of your time, here are your finalists in the NOVELLAS NEED LOVE TOO! Contest.

*** Permission to Forward Granted ***

Celtic Hearts Romance Writers is proud to announce the finalists for our Novellas Need Love, Too! Contest. As this was our first novella contest, we were thrilled that all the categories filled and were so excellent. We look forward to final results on November 12th. Finalists are in alphabetical order by first name and/or entry title. This order does not reflect scoring. Congratulations to ALL our finalists!

CONTEMPORARY

Barbara Heintz: Chocolate On Her Sleeve

Sarah Hoss: Heaven Sent

Valerie Clarizio: Cookies for Santa

Final Judge - Grace Bradley (Ellora's Cave)

HISTORICAL

Karen Dobbins: An Honorable Seduction

Kathleen Bittner Roth: The Seduction of Sarah Banks

Melinda B. Pierce: A Shocking Proposal

Final Judge - Mary Hamilton (Samhain)

EROTIC (tie for second place)

Jayme LeClair: Hurricane Winds

Sabrina York: Going Up

Sabrina York: Wildfire

Sabrina York: Wildkat

Final Judge - Kelli Collins (Ellora's Cave)

PARANORMAL

Alisa Walker: The Ghost Who Came To Supper

Amity Grays: Savage Protector

Amity Grays: Unlikely Protector

Final Judge - Imogen Howson (Samhain)

PUBLISHED

Camryn Rhys: The Sword of Elements

Liz Talley: A Little Bit Wicked

Mary A. Behre: Picture Me Hot

Final Judge - Gina Bernal (Carina Press)

For our Distinguished Novella Award, judges were asked to place each entry in a rubric against every novella they'd ever read. Every novella entered in the contest was equally eligible for this award. And the finalists are:

DISTINGUISHED NOVELLA AWARD

Karen Dobbins: An Honorable Seduction

Kathleen Bittner Roth: The Seduction of Sarah Banks

Melinda B. Pierce: A Shocking Proposal

Sabrina York: Going Up

Sabrina York: Wildfire

Final Judge - Heather Osborn (Samhain)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rebecca Lynn and Clancy Metzger, Coordinators - Novellas Need Love, Too! Contest

http://celtichearts.org - Where Love and Legends Come Together

I received good news!

2011-10-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

A month ago, I entered my novella, HEAVEN SENT, in a contest. It is called Novellas Need Love Too! and it was hosted by Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. Mine was entered in the Contemporary category.

Yesterday, I got the call I had been waiting on. My story had finaled in the contest! I am still so excited!!! The next stage for the others and I who finaled is that our entries get sent on to Grace Bradley of Ellora's Cave for a final judging. On Nov. 13, we will find out who the winner is.

Good luck to all the finalists!! Tomorrow, once they have announced all of the names, I will post all of the finalists. BUT- since today is supposed to be TOTALLY HOT THURSDAYS and I am in a really good mood, I am going to leave you with a plethera of beautiful men. ENJOY!

www.georgenick.co.uk

www.cheriffortin.com

www.lifeinitaly.com

www.georgenick.co.uk

INTERVIEW with Author Kerri Nelson!

2011-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Book Title: Courting Demons

Blurb:

Paisley Barton was already having a bad day before she turned her husband into a rat.

First, she was fired by her boss and then came home to find hubby in the shower with a naked blonde chick. They say that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned but this break-up may just unleash hell on Earth when Paisley casts a spell of vengeance against her philandering husband.

After her spell casting inadvertently opens a portal between dimensions, Paisley finds her family home transformed into a nightly courtroom for settling disputes between demons of the underworld and she’s the judge! If that’s not enough, she’s got to deal with a charming, ancient demon named Camden who wants to be her personal bodyguard while trying to explain her husband’s sudden, mysterious disappearance to sexy police Detective Dalton Briggs.

But Paisley will show them all that an everyday working mom is better equipped than most to deal with the mystical mayhem…and with a tempting demon hottie and a flirtatious young detective vying for her affection, she soon learns that being single again isn’t so bad after all.

“When a wronged wife turns her cheating husband into a rat, you know you have to keep reading! Kerri Nelson offers up a lot of fun and wild magic in Courting Demons!” --Bestselling author, Linda Wisdom, Demons are a Girl’s Best Friend

Read more about Kerri’s books at her website: www.kerrinelson.com

Follow her on Twitter here: www.twitter.com/kerribookwriter

Visit her industry blog here: www.thebookboost.blogspot.com

Buy Links (print and e-book versions available 9/15 wherever books are sold but here’s the publisher link—free gift available with purchase of print copy—while supplies last):

http://jupitergardens.com/Courting-Demons-by-Kerri-Nelson-print.html

Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Courting-Demons-ebook/dp/B005OAY7TG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1316621839&sr=8-1

Giveaway for the day:

Leave a question or comment to be entered to win today’s prize: A Custom made Momwitch Bread Bag Clip and a Witch Broom Pen Prize Pack!

Then, enter to win my book tour Grand Prize Kindle by following me on tour and e-mailing me the answers to each question of the day at the end of tour. The more questions you answer, the more entries you gain.

Question of the Day:

What is the name of my author promotions blog?

Details on how to enter to win the GRAND PRIZE Kindle at the end of my “Dark Days of Demons Tour” located here:

http://kerribookwriter.blogspot.com/2011/09/courting-demons-blog-tour-win-kindle.html

Excerpt link for Courting Demons: http://www.jupitergardens.com/excerpts/kn_cd.html

Today, I’m interviewing author Kerri Nelson. Her book Courting Demons is an Urban Fantasy/Romance and was released on September 15, 2011.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

KN: This book is a cross between an Urban Fantasy and a Paranormal Romance. The reason the blend is so unique is because the book is mostly about the main character’s journey and the new directions her life is moving in. She experiences these changes via wild action and unbelievable chaos that disrupts nearly every aspect of her normal life as a wife and mother. So, in that respect, it is very much an Urban Fantasy novel. But I find it very difficult to write a book without some romance in it—so you will see her falling for someone as well. Romance is my typical genre and it plays through here but UF is a new genre for me.

When did you start writing toward publication?

KN: I really became serious about it in the last decade. But I’ve always been a writer of something or another. I love to write and find it very therapeutic.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?

KN: Yes, in fact, I have three complete manuscripts that have never been published that I wrote and completed before I ever sold my first novella. But I’ve returned to one of them and I’ve revised it and hope to publish it soon.

I send out all my manuscripts myself. I’m a big advocate of submitting and submitting and then submitting some more. You can’t ever get a “yes” if you’re too afraid of getting a “no”.

Why have you become a published author?

KN: Through sheer stubborn persistence and blatant determination. Also, via submitting, submitting, and then submitting some more!

Do you have any rejection stories to share?

KN: I have way too many rejection stories. In fact, I’ve recently received quite a few rejections as I’ve attempted to switch genres away from romance an into more mainstream mystery fiction. Very difficult to get accepted in a totally new genre. But one of my fave stories is a rejection letter that I received which told me to “keep on reading”. I wasn’t sure if this was a misprint and they meant “keep on writing”. Or if they really wanted me to give up on writing and just stick with reading. LOL

What is your writing routine like?

KN: I don’t have a set routine because I have so many at home responsibilities with the kids and other commitments. But the one routine I do have is to make time to write every day. Even if it is only for 15 minutes—I make time to write something. It is important to me and good for me. Always make time for your writing if you want to succeed.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?

KN: I do all sorts of promotions. I even own my own promotions company that will celebrate its second anniversary in November this year. I’m particularly fond of blogging and attending any sort of reader/writer event where I can meet new people (and potential new readers).

The help I have comes from my other author friends and acquaintances in the business. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today—it is as simple as that. Make connections whenever and wherever you can.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

KN: Holding that completed and printed book in my hand and smiling down at it feels pretty good. But to get a letter or e-mail from a reader who has really enjoyed your book or been personally touched by it in some way—well, you can’t beat that.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped ?

KN: Yes and yes. I’m a member of both Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. I’m also active members of various chapters with both of these organizations. They’ve all helped by providing me with emotional support during the ups and downs of this volatile career. They’ve provided valuable critique partners and promotional opportunities. And mostly they’ve given me the encouragement to keep going and keep improving. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?

KN: If you want it—if you really want it—get it out there for people to see. Don’t be afraid to send your work to publishers. Skip the agent route if it is not getting you a response that you’d like to see. Go for smaller publishers or mid-size houses who will be eager to work with you and help you build a platform. Decide if your goal is to share your work with others and if it is…get it out there and get it published. Don’t wait around for someone to come knocking at your door.

There may never be that “perfect golden” deal that you’ve been waiting on. You may have to make it happen a little differently than you’ve dreamt of but you can get published if/when you decide you’re ready to make it happen.

What’s next for you?

KN: I’ve almost completed revisions and edits on my first mainstream mystery/thriller and I’ll be sending it out the first week of October. I’m very excited to see if I can sell it in that genre.

I’m also wrapping up several other smaller projects and there may be a sequel to Courting Demons just around the corner (wink, wink).

Thanks for hosting today, Sarah.

A little bit about the author:

Kerri Nelson discovered her love of writing at an early age and soon became a columnist for her local newspaper winning the Outstanding Young Journalist of the Year Award for her efforts.

After a fifteen year career in the legal field, Kerri fulfilled her lifelong dream of publication and is now an award winning multi-published author of nearly every genre under the sun (and moon) and also writes young adult fiction under the penname K.G. Summers.

A true southern belle, she comes complete with a dashing southern gentleman and three adorable children for whom she often bakes many homemade treats.

Kerri is an active member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America as well as numerous chapters including Futuristic Fantasy & Paranormal Writers and her Presidency of Celtic Hearts Romance Writers.

Heart of Romance has won another award!

2011-09-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

You read the title right! The LIEBSTER AWARD was given to me by my fellow Celtic Hearts author, RENEE VINCENT. Thank you Renee for honoring me with this!

You can find Renee Vincent at her blogs, Deep In The Heart Romance and Past The Print.

In keeping with the traditions associated with receiving the Liebster Blog Award, I must now convey the following:

Winners of a Liebster must:

1. Post the award on your blog and show thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them via the award graphic.

2. Reveal your top five picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog or send them a shout out on Twitter.

3. Bask in the love from the most supportive people on the Internet – other writers (and bloggers)

Those that I have passed this award on to:

1) Author Miriam Newman, fellow writer at Celtic Hearts, at The Celtic Rose

2) Author Melissa Stark, fellow writer at Celtic Hearts, at Melissa Stark

3) Author Tami Dee, fellow writer at Celtic Hearts at Tami Dee

4) Author Beth Trissel, fellow writer at Celtic Hearts at One Writer's Way

5) Author Kristal Lee, fellow writer at Celtic Hearts at Kristal Lee Romances

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-09-22T04:43:00.000-07:00

www.mhaipresodistriscio.blogspot.com

Today, I am presenting to you the very sexy:

PEDRO SOLTZ

I have to tell you that after searching high and low, I was not able to find out much about this handsome man, so here is the little bit I was able to find.

HEIGHT- 6'1"
BUST- 39"
HAIR- Brown
EYES- Green
BIRTHDAY- 1981
BIRTH PLACE- Brazil

www.angels-models.com

www.kultmodelagency.blogspot.com

www.amtvienna.com

**NOTICE- I do not own any of these pictures.**

New Jersey RWA Conference

2011-09-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

I will be attending this conference. Hope to see you there.

NJRW's Put Your Heart in a Book Conference
Empower Your Muse!

October 21-22, 2011
Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel
Iselin, NJ

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your writing to the next level. This year’s Put Your Heart in a Book Conference is shaping up to be the best ever. We will be adding to the list of agents and editors, so please check the website frequently for updates!
All conference information and forms are on the conference drop down menu. Users have experienced issues seeing the conference drop down menu using AOL as their browser. Please log on to this site using either FireFox, Safari or Internet Explorer and click on the conference tab in the header to view all the information.

Our Featured Speakers

Keynote speaker — Suzanne Brockmann

Luncheon speaker — Rachel Gibson

Special Presentation speaker — Victoria Alexander*

Along with a Half-day pre-conference with Brenda Novak

* For the first 100 people who sign up for the conference

Here is a partial list of agents and editors scheduled to attend:

Agents

Jessica Alvarez, BookEnds, LLC
Claudia Cross, Sterling Lord Literistic, Inc. (panel only)
Jennifer Didik, Loretta Barrett Books, Inc.
Stephany Evans, FinePrint Literary Management
Anne Hawkins, John Hawkins & Associates, Inc.
Christina Hogrebe, Jane Rotrosen Agency
Miriam Kriss, Irene Goodman Literary Agency
Denise Little, The Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency
Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency
Beth Miller, Writers House
Lauren Ruth, BookEnds, LLC
Susannah Taylor, Richard Henshaw Group
Carlie Webber, Jane Rotrosen Agency

Editors

Lia Brown, Avalon Books
Karen Chaplin, HarperCollins Publishers
Kelli Collins, Ellora’s Cave
Wendy McCurdy, Berkley Books
Lauren Plude, Grand Central Publishing
Aubrey Poole, Sourcebooks
Latoya Smith, Grand Central Publishing
And 6 editors from Harlequin!

And, here is the list of our workshop presenters:

Tasha Alexander
Victoria Alexander
Laura Marie Altom
Toni Andrews
Gina Ardito
Marlo Berliner
Annette Blair
Terri Brisbin
Suzanne Brockmann
Mary Burton
Christine Bush
Dianne Castell
Karen Chaplin
Anna DePalo
Stephanie Draven
Cara Elliott
Marie Force
Jacquelyn Frank
Rachel Gibson
Laura Griffin
Winnie Griggs
Nancy Herkness
Kristan Higgins
Eloisa James
Sophie Jordan
Mary Kennedy
April Kihlstrom
Cindy Kirk
Eliza Knight
Caroline Linden
Denise Little
Kathleen Long
Janice Lynn
Kevan Lyon
Sally MacKenzie
Brenda Novak
Robin D. Owens
Tessa Radley
Isabel Roman
Renee Ryan
Ruth Seitelman
Karen Rose Smith
RR Smythe
Mariah Stewart
Hope Tarr
Stephanie Tyler
The Grammar Divas
Lauren Willig

Registration opens June 15th 2011!

NJRW Member: $190.00
Non-NJRW Member: $210.00
NJRW hotel room rate is $115, which includes guestroom internet access.

Pre-conference Workshop

Emotion: The Heart of the Novel, with Brenda Novak (Friday, Oct. 21, from 9 AM to 12 PM) - $30.00

Donations Requested

Your help is needed! Donations for the 2011 Conference giveaway baskets can be brought to each NJRW monthly meeting and would be greatly appreciated. Items such as lotions, candles, chocolates, unused books, bottles of wine and, of course, large baskets would be very helpful. Complete theme baskets will also be accepted from individuals or a group of authors. Any questions, please contact Val Luna, Baskets Chair.
If you have questions, please contact: Marlo Berliner, NJRW’s 2011 Conference Chair, at confchair@njromancewriters.org or, Ruth Seitelman, Assistant Chair, at ruth.seitelman@gmail.com. For registration questions, please contact: LoriMarie LaSpada, Registrar, at registrar@njromancewriters.org.
Want to find out what you've been missing, or perhaps re-live a favorite session from a previous event? CDs are available for purchase from past Put Your Heart in a Book conferences.

Order CDs from the 2010 conference.
Order CDs from the 2009 conference.
Order CDs from the 2008 conference.
Order CDs from the 2007 conference
Order CDs from the 2006 conference.

WINNER!

2011-09-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

And the winner of the autographed picture of Brooks Johnson is................

CANDY!

We hope you had a "Happy Birthday!" and congratulations!!!!

Be looking for an email from me.

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-09-08T05:22:00.000-07:00

Today, I am interviewing BROOKS JOHNSON, the lead male cover model at Hot Damn Designs. I hope you will enjoy reading this interview. Brooks was both very accommodating and a gentleman.

Welcome to Heart of Romance, Brooks! We are so happy to have you. Let me start off by asking the question I am sure everyone wants to know and that is, how did you get started in the modeling profession?

BROOKS- Hello! Well, at the time I was just a little peon intern doing an internship one summer for Enterprise Rent-A-Car while in school and waited on a customer who was a photographer. During the course of the rental process, my customer inquired if I modeled or not and I had to say, "No, but I have thought about it but never pursued it!" So that was the beginning and led to my first photo shoot or test-shoot.

What is Hot Damn Designs and how did you come to work for them?

BROOKS-Kim Killion of Hot Damn Designs had contacted my Agency and discovered me that way, & I think my agent had told her I previously Competed in a Romance Competition & also had been at some Romance Conventions (back when I had SHORT Hair! Ha haa haa!)

Can you tell us how many covers you have graced?

BROOKS- I cannot say exactly, but somewhere in the range of 150-175.

How many different places have you shot a cover or are all of them right there in a studio?

BROOKS- I have shot in different locations, yes. Mostly indoors, but some outside by buildings, walls, fire escapes, and even a barn and stables!

What is your favorite role to portray?

BROOKS-I actually like portraying them all, because they are all so different than what I know. I guess I just have an appreciation for many things.

Is modeling the only thing you are doing at the moment?

BROOKS-Currently yes, but I enjoy doing yard work outdoors for people & massage therapy work when there are opportunities to. I'm looking at accepting a job installing shower doors for a Glass Co. in October.

What does your future hold?

BROOKS-I try not to trespass into my future. The way I look at it, if I would try to predict that, I would make God laugh!

I see that you are an animal lover. How many dogs do you have and do you have other pets as well?

BROOKS-Yes, three Dogs....also I must mention I have a cat & two King Snakes to my name (one of the Kings is Albino).

What are the kinds of things you like to do in your off time?

BROOKS-Relax and remember what if feels like to breathe deeply....& sometimes I am forced to breathe deeply during intense workouts

We would love to know one thing about you that we wouldn’t find in your bio.

BROOKS-I am an avid health nut b/c of a close encounter with death & dying from Meningitis half way through my senior year in High School. I also have some Choctaw ancestry from the Original Band of the Mississippi Choctaw Indian.
Whoops, I guess that makes two things you know now!

SARAH- We are glad you recovered! How scary!

Your stats: Age: 34

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 202 lbs.

Chest: 43

Bicep: 17 ½ in.

If you don’t mind, here are some brief questions to answer.

Favorite meal? Homemade mac and cheese with white Parmesan

Favorite movie? Smoke Signals

Favorite past time? Canoeing!

Luck or Destiny? I believe in both.

Mountains or Beach? I appreciate them both in different ways, so I would probably choose the one with the fewest crowds.

Hair-Long or Short? Long!

Eyes or lips? Eyes

Cover design by Kim Killion

Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise

Hot or Cold? Hot!

Bikini or One piece? Bikini

Silk or lace? Does it matter? They are both coming off anyways!

If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go?

BROOKS- New Zealand

Brooks, Thank you so much for hanging out with us today and letting me interview you. I would like to leave some links for the fans to use so if they are interested in learning more about you, they can.

www.brooksjohnsonmodel.com
www.facebook.com/pages/Brooks-Johnson-Fanpage/113843125382613

Okay everyone! Here is a special treat for you. Leave a comment below for your chance to win an autographed copy of a picture of Brooks!!!!

Cover design by Kim Killion

Photo property of Brooks Johnson

INTERVIEW with Author Laura Kaye

2011-09-07T05:12:00.000-07:00

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR LAURA KAYE

Today I’m interviewing Laura Kaye. Her book, HEARTS IN DARKNESS is a contemporary romance and was released on April 20, 2011.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.

I’d love to, Sarah! And thanks for having me here! HEARTS IN DARKNESS is about two strangers who find acceptance and dare to find love while trapped for four hours in a pitch-black elevator. Here’s the blurb:

Two strangers. Four hours. One pitch-black elevator.

Makenna James thinks her day can't get any worse, until she finds herself stuck in a pitch-black elevator with a complete stranger. Distracted by a phone call and juggling too much stuff, the pin-striped accountant caught only a glimpse of a dragon tattoo on his hand before the lights went out.

Caden Grayson is amused when a redhead literally falls at his feet. His amusement turns to panic when the power fails. Despite his piercings, tats, and vicious scar, he's terrified of the dark and confined spaces. Now, he's trapped in his own worst nightmare.

To fight fear, they must both reach out and open up. With no preconceived notions based on looks to hold them back, they discover just how much they have in common. In the warming darkness, attraction grows and sparks fly, but will they feel the same when the lights come back on?

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

HEARTS IN DARKNESS is contemporary romance, though in a pretty unique setting – a pitch-black elevator in which the characters can’t see each other for part of the book. Contemporary is just one of the romantic genres in which I write. I also have books in paranormal (Forever Freed, In the Service of the King), fantasy (North of Need), and erotic (Just Gotta Say) romance. I really enjoy exploring what these different genres offer to my writing, and hope to keep up the genre hopping as long as my career will allow!

When did you start writing toward publication?

I began pursuing fiction writing a little over three years ago. Kinda weird story: I hit my head on July 4, 2008, and it ended up being a more severe injury than we initially thought. After several weeks of intense migraine-like headaches and changes to my eating and sleeping patterns, once I began to heal, I emerged from the whole mess with a very strong desire to write. The book that became my vampire romance, Forever Freed, was the first novel I wrote, and I had the draft completed in about 11 weeks. I’ve been pursuing publication ever since.

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?

When I sold Forever Freed in the late winter of 2010, I didn’t have anything else written at that point—it was the first I wrote and first I sold. However, in the following year, I wrote and sold four more manuscripts, two of which are the first in series. I do not have an agent, so I did all the querying/submitting on my own.

Why have you become a published author?

Well, I was already a published author before pursuing fiction writing. I’m an historian by training, and have published two non-fiction books in my field. However, I wanted to pursue publication of my fiction because, frankly, I thought it would be really cool and a lot of fun to see my book on bookstore shelves and to learn people were reading and talking about what I wrote. Plus, once you open your mind to characters, they sort of take over and demand to be heard! I’m also doing it now because I’m hoping that I can ultimately be successful enough in my sales to pursuing writing as a full-time career.

Do you have any rejection stories to share?

Every writer has rejection stories! I’m no different. Before I accepted a contract for Forever Freed at The Wild Rose Press, I queried agents widely over about a 9-month period. It was a total learning process for me, and I made a lot of rookie mistakes along the way. I had a lot of requests for partials and fulls, but ultimately no takers. I believe I queried upwards of 70 agents on that book. Then, the first publisher I queried, TWRP, offered a contract. Possibly the most disappointing rejection I’ve received so far was from a big name agent who read one of my manuscripts, totally loved it and raved about it in several emails, but ultimately decided to pass. However, she did say she’d look at it again if I revised this one issue that concerned her. So, it wasn’t all bad news. Now, to find the time for that manuscript!

What is your writing routine like?

I think describing it as a “routine” would be giving it a lot more order and structure than it really has! LOL I work full-time and am married with two children under the age of 7, so I write when the time permits itself, often after the girls go to bed at night. Sometimes I can sneak in some weekend time for writing, too. Otherwise, the only real routine I have is I usually need to reread the most recent scenes I’ve written to get my head back into the story before I can continue on with new pages. I tend to be a faster writer overall, and I don’t have to be in a special place or work in silence, etc., to do my thing!

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?

I make the greatest use of promotion opportunities that are free. I’ve been featured on probably 100 blogs since Hearts in Darkness released in April. I twitter and facebook like a demon, and have an active blog. I’m also involved in the forums/boards on amazon and on the kindleboards. Giveaways are a great form of promotion, and a lot of my guest posts include opportunities to win my books. I have purchased some swag items to send to readers, and so far have had romance trading cards made for all my books—I give those away for free if someone sends me a SASE.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

Easy. The most rewarding thing is knowing people are enjoying your books. Knowing you made an impact on their lives in some way, even if small. I love that, and it’s what makes it all worthwhile!

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped

I belong to the Romance Writers of America and quite a few of their local and “special interest” chapters. I find the RWA a great resource and networking tool. Second to that, I find Savvy Authors to be a phenomenal site for authors and encourage everyone to join.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?

Keep writing. Book one may not sell. It doesn’t, for a lot of people, but that doesn’t mean the time spent on that book was wasted. Writing book one honed your skills as a writer and gave you confidence you could finish a book. So, while queyring book one, start on book two—whether it’s the second in a series or something completely new. An agent or editor may decide they your first book doesn’t work for them, but they love your voice—and you want to have something else in hand to show them. Plus, writing is filled with so many milestones, keeping your butt in the chair and fingers on the keyboard will give you things to celebrate as the inevitable rejections roll in.

What’s next for you?

I have books releasing on September 30 (Just Gotta Say, contemporary erotic romance from Decadent Publishing) and November 1 (North of Need: The Hearts of the Anemoi, Book 1, contemporary fantasy romance from Entangled Publishing.) Currently, I’m writing the second book in the Anemoi series as well as completing revisions on the first in a vampire series with Harlequin that releases next February.

A little bit about the author

A multi-published author of paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance, Laura Kaye’s hot, heartfelt stories are all about the universal desire for a place to belong. Laura is the author of the bestselling contemporary romance Hearts in Darkness and the bestselling paranormal romance Forever Freed. Just Gotta Say is Laura’s third published book, and she has a fourth releasing in November 2011. Laura lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

How can my readers buy your book?

Readers can go to the publisher’s home page at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=800

Check out my book trailer at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEXtOvGJNl0

You can find more information about Laura Kaye and Hearts in Darkness at

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

WINNERS of Kim Killion books

2011-09-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

I want to thank everyone who stopped in and left a comment. Kim and I really appreciate it!!

Here are your winners:

SiNn- wins a copy of Caribbean Scot

Patricia- wins a copy of Caribbean Scot

Dawn Hamilton- wins a copy of Taming a Highland Devil

Renee Vincent- wins a copy of Educating Aphrodite

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

INTERVIEW with Author Kim Killion

2011-08-31T05:39:00.000-07:00

Today I’m interviewing KIMBERLY KILLION. Her book, Caribbean Scot is a Scottish Historical and was released on May 20, 2011.

Kim Killion with cover model Brooks Johnson

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book

RICHES...

Forced to flee

Scotland

and forfeit the chieftainship of his clan, renegade Reid MacGregor prospers as a fortune hunter in the rich waters of the Caribbean. But there are two treasures he has yet to claim—the lost library of an ancient Mayan priestess and the wild lass he left behind.

TEMPTATION...

Mary-Robena Wallace is a member of the rebellious MacGregor clan and a warrior in her own right. Desperate to free her clan from the cruelty of their king, she raids the borders alongside her kinsmen...until the devilishly handsome man from her past returns with an offer she’s hard-pressed to refuse.

SEDUCTION...

Reid promises gold in exchange for her expertise as a cave diver to locate a treasure in the Caribbean—but they both know he’s after something more. They strike a deal to save her clan, but the fruits of an exotic paradise and the sinful kiss of a traitorous rogue force her to choose between returning to Scotland, or surrendering to the Caribbean Scot.

"A sexy, suspenseful story with great plotting
and lots of witty dialogue. A winner!"

—Toni LoTempio, Reviewer, Night Owl Reviews,

Author of Raven’s Kiss & No Rest for the Wicca

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in? This is a Scottish historical and is the genre I like to write in. It’s what I prefer. I did write a novella in the erotic genre titled, Educating Aphrodite published from Elorra’s Cave. (mention the video from RomCon.) SIDE NOTE; Kim goes to many conventions and just went to RomCon in Denver Col. And this is the video…….

When did you start writing toward publication?

I started writing in 1998 but didn’t sell until 2007. The first book I wrote came out in 2008 with Kensington. It is called “Her One Desire,” and was my RITA nominated book. ***The RITA award is the romance-publishing industry’s highest award of distinction.***

Did you have several manuscripts finished before you sold? If so, did you send them out yourself?

I had one book written and it is under my bed where it will stay. LOL! I had Highland Dragon written and Her One Desire only had 5 chapters finished when I sold. I wrote 80K in three months to finish it. Her One Desire was published first.

Why have you become a published author?

I like to write, to tell stories. I have always been a creative person. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts and teach Graphic Web Design in St. Louis, MO so I love to be creative.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?

I mainly do social networking for promotion. I try to keep my website updated. There is always reader communication through email and I go to conferences. Best accessory is a HAWT male in a kilt!!!

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

By far, the fan mail! It is fun to receive an email from someone who said I was able to take them away for a couple of hours. It’s very rewarding.

Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?

Of course! Romance Writers of America, Missouri Chapter of Romance Writers of America which I was the President for 2 years. It was their critique group that helped polish my craft and I credit my success to them. I am also a member of PASIC, Novelists INC, Hearts Through History, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. (PASIC stands for Published Authors Specialty Interest Chapter.)

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract?

Biggest advice I could give to a new author is perseverance. Don’t let NY or a rejection get you down. Write because you love to write and not because you want a career in writing.

What’s next for you?

My Cursed Highlander is coming out in January 2012. It is a Scottish Historical with Paranormal elements that’s set in

Scotland

and

Italy

. The heroine is the blind ward of Lorenzo the Magnificent. (For more information on this book, please go to http://www.kimberlykillion.com/)

BOOK EXCERPT for CARIBBEAN SCOT

~ TAKEN ~
Dunbartonshire, Scotland, Summer—1603

At ten and six, Reid MacGregor only had one person occupying his mind, and she stood at his boot tips preparing him for the dive into Loch Lomond.

"Think ye a bit of treasure might be worth one kiss?” Reid snapped a wink at the lass tying the leather straps at his neck. He ignored the gagging noises Eoin and Fergus made behind them.

Torchlight filled the cavern with a yellow glow and showed the blush tinting her fair skin. She pulled the laces tight. A wee bit too tight. “’Tis just like a MacGregor to bargain without means of payment.”

Mary-Robena Wallace had always been quick of wit, especially when it came to tossing barbs at Reid. She didn’t give him the answer he wanted, but neither did she tell him no.

Anticipation and excitement tickled his stomach. He’d never actually kissed a lass, save for Nanna, and that wasn’t the kind of kiss he wanted to share with Robbie. Nay, he wanted the kind of kiss the kinswomen gave the warriors when they returned from battle. The kind of kiss that involved a wee bit of tongue.

Reid squirmed inside his leather suit, swallowed, and slipped a gloved finger between the ties and his neck to make room for the knot in his throat. But Robbie slapped his hand away, flipped her red-blonde braid over her shoulder, and then picked up a pail of tar off the cavern floor. She smeared the thick black pitch around his wrists and then his ankles, sealing the leather suit to his iron boots so water wouldn’t seep in. The pungent smell of turpentine burned his nostrils as she circled the warm tar around his throat.

Not once did Robbie attempt to hide her dimples as she glued his hair to his neck. He would have to soak in animal fat for a sennight to remove the sticky substance. But it would be worth it if he found evidence of the treasure Robbie’s grandda assured them was in the depths of Loch Lomond. Robbie had mapped out a grid based on her grandda’s theories, and they’d covered more than half the area where he believed a Spanish lieutenant might have hidden treasure he’d stolen from Cristóbal Colón’s new land. In the past three months, they’d found little, save for a boot and a piece of armor.

A little bit about the author.
Kim Killion wears many hats. Mother, professor, web designer and owner of HOT DAMN Designs. Kim lives with her two children and pets in Illinois and teaches Graphic Web Design in St. Louis, MO. If you are interested in contacting Kim, you may do so at kim@kimberlykillion.com.

How can my readers buy your book?
Readers can go to the publisher’s home page at http://www.kimberlykillion.com. Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

You can find more information about Kim Killion and her books, by visiting her website, http://www.kimberlykillion.com or her blog at http://www.hotdamndesigns.com.

Photo courtesy of Kim Killion

JUST FOR YOU! Kim is giving away TWO copies of Caribbean Scot, ONE copy of Educating Aphrodite* and ONE copy of Taming a Highland Devil.

For your chance to win one of these prizes, you must leave a comment. GOOD LUCK!
*Educating Aphrodite is an erotica romance.

ALSO- Come back Friday to learn more about HOT DAMN DESIGNS. Leave a comment for your chance to win one of TWO stock photos. Your choice!!

WRITING CONTEST

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

2011 Celtic Hearts Romance Writers' Contest
NOVELLAS NEED LOVE, TOO!

PUBLISHED and UNPUBLISHED authors are welcome

**CONTEST DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 1, 2011**

RULES, ENTRIES, and ELIGIBILITY

Eligibility

The "Novellas Need Love, Too" contest is open to both published and unpublished authors. For the purposes of this contest, "Published" means either an RWA member or non-member who has accepted or initiated a publishing contract from any kind of publisher for fiction in the past five years of 12,000 words or more. "Unpublished" means either an RWA member or non-member who is unpublished in novella (12K or above) or novel (40K and above) length fiction and who has not accepted or initiated a contract with any kind of publisher for fiction in the past three years. This includes self-published works of fiction. If upon entry, you are "unpublished" but receive a contract (for other than the entered manuscript) before the entry deadline, you must notify the contest coordinator and we will give you the option of switching to the "published" category, or withdrawing from the contest.

Entries

Entry must be a novella, whose completed word count falls between the range of 12-40K words. Manuscripts must be completed by the final deadline so they may be submitted to the final judge if requested (November 1st). If a final judge asks for a full, you'll want to be able to send it out immediately. Entrant must retain all rights to the entry and not have granted any of them to a publisher or any other party by the contest entry deadline. If your entered manuscript is accepted for publication during the time of our contest (before October 1st) you must notify the contest coordinator; your submission(s) will be withdrawn from consideration and your entry fee(s) returned.

For "published" authors, the entirety of the entered manuscript must be uncontracted and unpublished, including (but not limited to) the concept and characters, the plot and storyline, and the written manuscript itself. It may be part of a series if
(1) the rest of the series is uncontracted and
(2) you are not under contract for subsequent series books with a publisher (vanity/subsidy or otherwise).

Please Note:

You may submit multiple entries so long as you pay an entry fee and submit a completed entry form for each submission.
Entries must be ROMANCE. Your synopsis will be reviewed upon entry and if a romance relationship is not obvious, your entry may be remitted to you and your contest fee returned.
You may not enter the same manuscript in more than one category.

Entries are 5 pages maximum with a complete synopsis no longer than 3 pages (double-spaced), for a total of 8 pages maximum.
All entries are electronic. Entries must be the FIRST five pages of a novella and may not be from any location other than the beginning (so, if you have a prologue, you must begin with the prologue, and not with Chapter One, although you may include any part of Chapter One that falls within the first five pages). Remember that you're turning in a complete entry, so please don't end in the middle of a sentence.

How To Enter

Entries should be submitted to the appropriate category coordinator. (See Below)

Contemporary, Historical, Erotic, and Paranormal categories are for UNPUBLISHED authors. All PUBLISHED authors should enter the Published category, regardless of the category of the manuscript. Judges for the published category will be asked to be familiar with all potential categories.

Contemporary Romance – Michelle Muse (rmjamuse@msn.com)
Historical Romance – Lizzie Walker (bttrfly811@yahoo.com)
Erotic Romance – Sarah Hoss (sarah-hoss@hotmail.com)
Paranormal Romance – Janet Flowers (romanticheart98@yahoo.com)
Published Authors – Clancy Metzger (clancym13@gmail.com)

Categories
Paranormal: Romance novella where the mains focus is on the romantic relationship, but the future, fantasy or paranormal elements are integral to the story (includes time-travel).
Contemporary: Romance novella with a contemporary setting set after 1945. Main focus is the romantic relationship between the hero and heroine.
Historical: Romance novella set primarily before 1945 -- any location. Main focus must be on the romantic relationship between the hero and heroine.
Erotic Romance: Any genre or time period, erotic romance submission only - no straight erotica - this means there must be a HEA ending or at least a Happy For Now.
Published: Romance novella of any category, where the author has been published in fiction over 12K in the last three years. May be any type of novella and have any heat level.

DISTINGUISHED NOVELLA AWARD –
Each judging form will contain a unique category where judges will rate their enjoyment of each novella (both manuscript pages and synopsis) in comparison to every novella they've ever read. The top five scores (regardless of genre or author) in this category will be forwarded to the Distinguished Novella Award final judge. This judge will pick one winner from among those five, who will receive a certificate and a cash prize (of $50).

Judges
Final Round Judges
Paranormal – Imogen Howson, Samhain
Erotic – Kelli Collins, Ellora's Cave
Historical – Mary Hamilton, Samhain
Contemporary – Grace Bradley, Ellora's Cave
Published – Gina Bernal, Carina Press
Distinguished Novella Award (overall) - Heather Osborn, Samhain

Entry Composition

Your entry must have the following:

1. A separate entry form for each entry which includes the author's real name, address, telephone number(s), e-mail address, submission title, category and manuscript word count. Do not include the entry form in the same attachment as your manuscript and synopsis. The manuscript and synopsis will be sent together as one document as an attachment.
2. The beginning of your manuscript, including prologue, cannot exceed five (5) pages. Standard manuscript format must be followed: 1 inch margins, double spaced in a standard font and size that gives 24-26 lines per page. We will not accept entries that have colored, or designer fonts. DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR NAME ON THE MANUSCRIPT.
3. The synopsis must be included with the same file attachment as the manuscript, must be double spaced and is not to exceed three (3) pages. Do not send the synopsis in a separate attachment. Include the synopsis is at the end of your entry, and it should start and end as though it were separate from your manuscript. Any entry that contains a single spaced synopsis and/or begins or ends on the same page as the manuscript will be refused and sent back for correction. The synopsis will be scored. DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR NAME ON THE MANUSCRIPT.
4. Confirmation of your payment. If paying through Paypal, include in the entry form your PayPal confirmation number from your PayPal receipt. Not the receipt itself, just the number. For each entry. If paying by check, please include the check # and amount on your entry form.

NOTE: Your entry, which includes the synopsis must not exceed eight (8) pages total. ANY MANUSCRIPT, OR SYNOPSIS THAT DOES NOT FOLLOW THE RULES SET DOWN HERE WILL BE REFUSED AND YOUR ENTRY WILL BE RETURNED SO THAT YOU CAN CORRECT IT.

Entry Format: Standard manuscript and synopsis format, double-spaced, 12-point readable font, twenty-six (26) lines maximum per page, minimum 1" margins all around. Only the TITLE of the manuscript, the category, and any subcategory should be placed on the top left hand side of the entry. The PAGE NUMBER should be on the top right hand side. IF THE NAME OF THE AUTHOR(S) APPEARS ANYWHERE ON THE MANUSCRIPT OR SYNOPSIS, THE ENTRY WILL BE DISQUALIFIED AND THE ENTRY FEE WILL NOT BE RETURNED.
Manuscript and synopsis must be in a .doc or .rtf file.
All winners will receive certificates and icons to place on their websites.
Have questions? Please contact the contest chair, Rebecca Lynn, at rlcameron@yahoo.com.

CHRW reserves the right to discard all electronic entries and return fees if a minimum number of three (3) entries is not received in any category.
Entrants will be contacted before the entries are returned and given the option to place their entry in another category.
We may also refuse an entry that does not follow the rules stated here in the guidelines.

Entry Fee: $10 per entry. You may pay for all entries at once, but please note which entries your payment covers, especially if paying by check.

Pay by Check
Please click the link for this form which will download to your computer and include with your payment: Contest Entry Form
Mail to:
CHRW Treasurer
c/o Rebecca Syme
PO Box 445
Bozeman, MT 59771
Once our Treasurer has received your check, she will notify you to submit your entry.

For more information, please go to www.celtichearts.org.

FRIDAY 56

2011-08-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY 56: SEDUCED BY A HIGHLANDER by Paula Quinn

Rules:

* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.

* Turn to page 56.

* Post any sentence from that page (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog. (If you do not have your own blog) post it in the comments section of this blog.

* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

*****Tristan left Lady Elizabeth Sutherland with a curse on his lips and headed across the court to the lawns. He was angry with himself, but he had Isobel to blame for his sudden-and a bit frightening- lack of interest in the fairer sex. It didn't matter that she had avoided him like plague since their kiss in the garden, completely ignoring him at the coronation yesterday. She haunted his every waking moment, and his dreams, as well. Why? Was it the refreshing resistance she offered to his most practiced advances that piqued his interest? Or the succulent flame of her tongue that left him aching for more?*****

Heart of Romance credits Freda's Voice for the great Friday 56 meme:

Totally HOT Thursdays

2011-08-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Jamie Ungaro.
Jamie and his wife, Meshella

Today, I am interviewing JAMIE UNGARO, Mr. Romance, 2010. I hope you will enjoy reading this interview as much as I enjoyed getting it!

**Welcome to Heart of Romance, JAMIE! We are so happy to have you. Let me start off by asking the question I am sure everyone wants to know and that is, how did you get started in the modeling profession?

JAMIE- After high school my dreams of keeping my football career going was not a reality so, I took my friends and families advice by going into acting and modeling. I started in 2004 and up till now it has consisted of a lot of rough auditions with only a few jobs. LOL! But I’m still hanging in there and holding onto the dream that one day acting will be my career. As for modeling now a days if someone wants’ me to model for them I will but, I’m currently not perusing it. I only will model for Christian and regular romance books and won’t model for erotica or immoral fantasies.

**How would someone go about getting an image of you if they wanted it for their book cover?

JAMIE- Just send me a detailed description of the pose and dress in an e-mail to jamieungaro@gmail.com . Then I will go have it done and send them back to you. If you’re wanting pictures, make sure you fill the subject bar in and make it clear of what it is or, I might over look it. Thanks!

Photo courtesy of Jamie Ungaro

**Can you tell us how many covers you have graced?

JAMIE- Ironically I have not yet been on cover being Mr. Romance 2010 but, I am working with a company trying to get a cover for my winning. I did act in a book trailer for Zodervan all thanks to Sheila Clover English and “Circle of Seven Productions”. The book is called “An Eye for Glory” here’s the link for the video check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKmjL5ZfqLo Even though I haven’t been on a cover God has really blessed me by being the only Mr. Romance ever to win all three trophies (readers choice, contestants choice, and Mr. Romance) and having a true romance in the same year. Then got married January 3rd of 2011 and my wife Meshella is an author so, we have been planning on writing about a true romance and how God put it all together and blessed us greatly! If it wasn’t for putting our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ first, none of this would have been possible. All the Glory goes to God!

** How many different places have you shot a cover or all of them right there in a studio?

JAMIE- I have shot for covers just never made it on one yet. I have done many photo shoots inside and out. I like the outside shoots more, there’s more things you can be creative with in your poses.

**You were Mr. Romance, 2010. Can you tell us how you came to receive the title and what was it like to be called Mr. Romance?

Photo courtesy of Jamie Ungaro

JAMIE- I’ll start by saying what I said before; it was all because of Jesus.

It all started when I was taking modeling and acting classes at Barbizon. A week left of classes and we had to come up with a commercial and act it out. Right when the teacher told us that, the Lord laid it upon my heart to make a commercial of Him. I sat back and said are you for real? LOL! I had all week to think about this so, I listened and it went like this: “Hi friend, is there something in your life that you are battling, and it seems like there’s no way of overcoming it? Or that your heart may be heavy with the weight of the world. No matter your situation there is hope. Well my friend hope has a name…. That name is Jesus Christ. He is the light of life. He can bring light to any dark spots in life, and give you a softer, loving heart. So bring salvation, joy, love and understanding of truth to your soul by checking out the website at the bottom of the screen at http://www.jesuschrist.com/ ”

After doing what I was told one of my friends there, his mom was thrilled to hear about my commercial and she ended up introducing me to my manager and friend Loretta Rodgers. Then Loretta told me about the Mr. Romance contest. At first I thought I couldn’t go with low funds, and then I thought maybe I’ll just go and not enter but do some social networking. I decided to just go for it and didn’t expect to win anything I just wanted to start getting my name out there. I went with only $75 and the trust in our Lord and Savior that all my needs would be met. I had a blast meeting a lot of people and the competition to win over the ladies. LOL! I just stayed true to who I am as a person and kept Jesus first and man! Did he bless me! The first thing I did after winning I pointed to the sky gave thanks to Him and blessing Him for blessing me. Experiencing those 15 minutes of fame was great! Keeping a smile for long periods at a time for pictures is exhausting. Don’t know how the stars do it? LOL! Back to the point of the story, which is obedience. If I was not obedient and didn’t do the commercial of Jesus none of this would have happen. I just think it is one of the coolest testimonies; Jesus never seizes to amaze me!

** Is modeling the only thing you are doing at the moment?

JAMIE- I currently put everything on hold to put my family first. When I have my family set, I’ll put myself back into the picture. I work on an off shore oil drilling rig and take the time I do have with my family I consider it precious.

**What does your future hold?

JAMIE- Like I said before my wife and I would like to come together with our life stories and where we meet and write a true romance about it and how God worked in both of our lives to set us up for the perfect match. I also won’t ever stop pursuing my dream of making acting as my career and be a positive role model for people. Last but not least I would love to have my own gym and use it to glorify God through it.

** What are the kinds of things you like to do in your off time?

Photo courtesy of Jamie Ungaro

JAMIE- REST! LOL! I like to stay in the gym. I like to go camping and water skiing in the summer. I like going snowboarding in the winter but, things I do more often are helping teach my step son how to play football or ride a rip stick and try to teach myself how to play the guitar. LOL!

** We would love to know one thing about you that we wouldn’t find in your bio.

JAMIE- I enjoy riding my step sons rip stick because it simulates snow boarding and surfing on pavement. There’s just a sense of freedom on it.

Your stats:
Age: 27

Height: 6’2’’

Weight: 220

Chest: 45’’

Bicep: 18’’

**If you don’t mind, here are some brief questions to answer.

Favorite meal? My wife’s corn beef and hash.

Favorite movie? The first Dumb and Dumber.

Favorite past time? Walking with my wife and my yellow lab at Lake Park in my home town Coshocton, Ohio.
Favorite sport? Football

Luck or Destiny? Destiny

Mountains or Beach? Mountains

Hair-Long or Short? Long hair

Sunrise or sunset? Both

Hot or Cold? Hot
Silk or lace? Lace

**If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go?

I would like to go to a lot of places but, I would like to visit Greece.

**Jamie, it was so exciting interviewing you today, thank you for the opportunity. I would like to leave some links for the fans to use so if they are interested in learning more about you, they can.

https://twitter.com/#!/MrRomance2010

http://www.facebook.com/#!/jamie.ungaro

Heart of Romance

Totally HOT Thursdays

Winner of the Heart of Romance contest

New Winner of Susan Schreyer's book

WINNER!!!!

Author Interview ELIZABETH MCKENNA

WINNER!

Author Interview SUSAN SCHREYER

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Happy birthday Robert Burns

Author interviews coming

Taking a new class

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CONTEST

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Want to pormote your work?

HAPPY NEW YEAR

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MERRY CHRISTMAS

Totally HOT Thursday

Christmas gift ideas- part 2

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Christmas gift ideas- PART 1

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The Fall of Rain

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Romance Countdown To 2012

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Interview with Author, BETH TRISSEL

I WON!

INTERVIEW with Author, Pat McDermott

UPDATE on NaNoWriMo

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Happy Halloween

I attended my first writers conference!

TOTALLY HOT THURSDAYS

HOT DAMN DESIGNS *sale*

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Was war paint worn in battle in Scotland?

Novellas Need Love Too! contest

I received good news!

INTERVIEW with Author Kerri Nelson!

Heart of Romance has won another award!

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New Jersey RWA Conference

NJRW's Put Your Heart in a Book ConferenceEmpower Your Muse!

October 21-22, 2011Renaissance Woodbridge HotelIselin, NJ

Our Featured Speakers

Keynote speaker — Suzanne Brockmann

Luncheon speaker — Rachel Gibson

Special Presentation speaker — Victoria Alexander*

Along with a Half-day pre-conference with Brenda Novak

Here is a partial list of agents and editors scheduled to attend:

Agents

Editors

And, here is the list of our workshop presenters:

Pre-conference Workshop

Emotion: The Heart of the Novel, with Brenda Novak (Friday, Oct. 21, from 9 AM to 12 PM) - $30.00

Donations Requested

WINNER!

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INTERVIEW with Author Laura Kaye

WINNERS of Kim Killion books

INTERVIEW with Author Kim Killion

WRITING CONTEST

FRIDAY 56

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HOT DAMN DESIGNS sale

NJRW's Put Your Heart in a Book Conference
Empower Your Muse!

October 21-22, 2011
Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel
Iselin, NJ