Excellent Review for CORN MAZE

Diana from Night Owl Romance gave Corn Maze a score of 4 out of 5 which translates as "A Page Turner"!

Here's a snippet of her review:

I really enjoyed this story. This is my second time reviewing a Deb Logan book and I love the way she writes such creative stories for young adults...For anyone who has children, or for anyone who wants to read stories from a good storyteller, I would definitely recommend a Deb Logan story. I look forward to reading future works of hers.

Read the entire review here.

Buy CORN MAZE here.

Great Review for ANGELIC VOICES

Wilga Hill Boomerang of Cocktail Reviews awarded 4 Champagne Flutes to Angelic Voices!

Here's a snippet of her review:

A fun YA that explores the way the teenage mind works. I cringed upon realising I’ve entertained similar thoughts as a youngster myself.

*LOL*

Yes indeed, Wilga! The cringe factor is part of the reason I titled this story as I did…Deanne and Susie might have angelic voices, but their thoughts and actions are anything BUT heavenly.

Read Wiga's complete review here.

Buy Angelic Voices here.

Back to School was Never This Romantic

All in Good Time

Take one shy schoolteacher with a secret, and one WWII vet in the midst of a scandalous divorce and put them together in the romantic setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains...then watch the fireworks!

When Philadelphian Elizabeth Temple arrives in a small, Southern town to teach first grade in 1948, she hopes to slide unnoticed into a spinster’s existence, believing herself unfit for any companion. She doesn’t count on falling for handsome Jake Ryan, a World War II veteran tainted by a scandalous divorce now struggling to raise his young son alone. Despite an undeniable chemistry, the road to romance is strewn with roadblocks and detours. Between the personal secret that has a devastating grip on Elizabeth, and Jake’s temperamental, soon-to-be-ex-wife, what looks like a ‘sure thing’ could easily slip away.

Now available at The Wild Rose Press and Amazon.com.

Book Signings Galore!

Wow.....now with my first three book signings behind me, I can look back and reflect! My first signing was in Abilene, Texas at The West Texas Book and Music Festival on September 29th and what a ball I had meeting my online critique partner and wonderful romance novelist, Rita Thedford! I love this woman! We had the honor of signing our books along with 100 other Texas authors! And guess who showed up? Mine and Rita's very talented cover artist, Mrs. Tamra Westberry! We were so blessed to have her there! Thank you, Tam!

My second book signing was held at Borders Books in Mesquite, Texas on October 13. What a dream come true! I was signing books along with a handful of some of the hottest names in romance! Thank you Borders and Fresh Fiction for the beautiful roses and the cake! All of you made my day so special! I was the new girl on the block, the very pregnant new girl on the block and everyone made me feel so welcome! A big thank you to the fabulous Jade Lee (this woman writes the most luscious, hottest romances......wooooo!) for all your tips! Family and friends showed up for my big day and new faces, asking where I get my inspiration! Wow! And for you writers out there, here is a big tip.......give out something free cause I made book thongs and they were a huge hit! I even sold two books only because the person wanted the book thong! I hope they enjoy my book as much as they enjoy my beaded thongs....snicker!

My third book signing was the annual Buns and Roses Tea for Literacy held at the Radisson Hotel in Richardson, Texas on October 14th! What a grand time we all had, autographing books with a slew of fabulous romance authors, all for a great cause! I hosted a table of nine readers and enjoyed a lovely afternoon of tea and pastries!

Please check out my web site at www.alishapaige.com and see my book signing pics under Photo Album!

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Writing and Reading!

Reviews........Eeeeeeeeek!

There are so many different stages that a newly published author goes through. There's the OMG.......I just received my first contract stage! And then there's the OMG......I received my first edits stage! The third stage is OMG......I'm actually holding a print copy of my book! It's surreal.....really! And then there are the dreaded reviews! Will anyone like what I've written? What if they hate it? What if my editor is the only person on earth who thought my book was worth reading or worse.....what if she was just low on manuscripts and decided to make my year? Waahhh! We as writers go through a myriad of nightmarish thoughts!

I tried not to think about it. I sent my book off to a dozen review houses and shuddered. "Fear not!" I told myself. That was that. When I received that first review, it was I think the point where I actually realized that maybe my mother wasn't lying about my book. Maybe it really is good! I decided that right then and there, I loved this reviewer! What a wonderful person! Her heart must overflow with goodness! Surely she did this out of the goodness of her own heart....not wanting to hurt my feelings. Then I realized that this woman will never meet me. Well, probably not, but maybe one day. I don't even know her last name. She knows nothing about me. This is her job and she must have been telling the truth. Right? I hoped so.

Then a few weeks later, I got my second review and to my amazement, it was good too! I started to seriously become convinced that I was a good writer. Then a third and a fourth rolled in! The pressure of opening those emails! Eeeeeeeeeeek! And they were all good! One reviewer even recommended my book to other readers as a "must read"! She mentioned that she would one day buy the book, so I mailed her a copy! I love this woman! Thank you for reviewing my book, you kind soul! I was silly about it all. I was convinced that these people were angels sent from heaven, sprinkling happy review dust into my email Inbox!

Then one reviewer really blew my mind when she nominated me for an award! Okay, that does it! I'm convinced! I don't suck as a writer. Sure, I have good days and bad days, but from now on, I will believe in my writing. Onward!

For me, those reviews really cemented the fact that I am a writer and not only that, but I'm a published author with something special to offer my readers. Now, if I can only come down off Cloud 9 long enough to give them something else!

Didn't want to see the end of summer?

~ Lynette Rees ~

Okay, the nights are drawing in [depending on which part of the world you live] and you might well dread the onset of winter.

Well, if you wish to relive those hazy, crazy days of summer, then you can!

My book, It Happened One Summer, is now available in paperback:

Here are a couple of recent reviews:

This is a very thrilling read, especially when I imagined Sandy’s stalker could be at a dinner party with her. That idea was creepy enough to give me goose bumps! Sandy and Matt seemed like an improbable couple at first, what with the way they met, but as the story progresses his compassion for her and the stalker situation is obvious. He cares, and it shows. In turn, it makes the reader care. I wanted Sandy to be safe, and I wanted Matt to protect her. I won’t say how this turns out, but I can practically guarantee readers will keep turning pages long after dark on this one. I know I did, and it was worth losing sleep over!

~ Carly, Fallen Angel Reviews 4 Angels

It Happened One Summer is a fascinating read that immediately draws in the reader. The characters of Matt and Sandy are really genuine in all their emotions. This reader could practically feel all the feelings that were vibrant in the pages. With some touches of envy, hatred, and disloyalty this gripping story blends great creativity. Ms. Rees instills characters that leave a lasting impression with wonderful dialogue that enhances the story. The secondary characters are a welcome addition to the storyline. Ms. Rees knows how to hook the reader and fascinate in this compelling page-turner. It Happened One Summer is a phenomenal read that should not be missed.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Linda L. The Romance Studio

Avenue Of Dreams by Anne Whitfield

Fancy reading a hot little short story?

Check out my latest release, Avenue Of Dreams!

Blurb
Molly Daniels is summer holidaying in a small town in the country to recover from a broken marriage. She’s hurt, disillusioned and unsure of her future. She last thing she is looking for is a man.
Sebastian Lord is the town’s most eligible bachelor, a title he hates. Having given up on a successful career in the city he now owns a small farm and is content to hide away there, away from the real world that has hurt him in the past. Since his fiancé was killed four years ago, he’s refused to enter the dating game again.
They’re an unlikely pair, but Seb’s wayward dog has a habit of bringing them together. They give into their attraction and share a hot summer together, but can they let go of the past enough to embrace a future together?
Purchase for $3
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=592&zenid=8ceefcd9b7142848a9436ee97baadd52

Regards, Anne.~

http://www.annewhitfield.com

Historical & Contemporary author

Delicious Darkness is Available Now

Delicious Darkness is Available Now.

Purchase

5 Angels - Fallen Angels Reviews. Reviewer Bella says,

"I thoroughly enjoyed Delicious Darkness. The psychic connection that Audra and Dorian had before they’d even met was fascinating. And once they did meet? Their physical and emotional bonding was electric, with sex so intense; the words fairly sizzled as I read them."

4 Hearts - The Romance Studio. Annie says,

"Delicious Darkness is a short story with intense spiritual and metaphysical overtones, and a high concentration of sizzling sensuality... The ending will gratify readers with its promise of hope. Author KyAnn Waters definitely has proven to be a writer to keep an eye on in future.

5 Roses - Sensual Reads and Reviews. Dakota says,

"Delicious Darkness is a very sexy read. KyAnn Waters draws the reader in from the first page and keeps you scrolling as fast as your eyes can take it in. This story was wonderful, and very, very hot."

5 flutes - Cocktail Reviews. Nutty Nana says,

"A white hot read with characters that meld together nicely, Delicious Darkness is a tale of lust, longing, and magical powers."

Blurb: A fugitive from a dark dimension, Dorian Hunt seeks a total bonding. Like a vampire needs blood or a werewolf needs the moon, Dorian needs to anchor himself to a woman of white light in order to survive. Without the mating, within one lunar cycle his might and magic would cease to protect him.
Audra Quinn has always been afraid of the dark. As an empath, she knows when Dorian enters her small metaphysical bookstore, he is the man who can help her realize her true potential as a woman of white light.

Bounty hunters from his dimension are lurking in the shadows, waiting for their opportunity to capture him, dead or alive. Dorian knows he will be easier to manage dead. Will Dorian have the strength to defend, or does it take the magic of a woman of white light to annihilate the evil darkness?

May the force be with you

This has been a great year for me. My first book came out from The Wild Rose Press, more were contracted, and opportunity knocked at my door. What’s been part of my learning curve is to decide which opportunities to take. For introverts, opportunities can be scary things indeed.

There were festivals, near and far. I attended some in a booksigning capacity. I spoke at local organizations, at local writers’ groups, at regional conferences. There were blogs, interviews, press releases, and so many more opportunities to chose from.

What’s a newbie author to do? Especially an introvert like me.

First, take a deep breath. No one is making you do any of this stuff. You won’t get a bad grade if you skip something or if you say no.

That’s actually the hardest part, saying no.

Practice saying it with me right now: NO. You are not required to drive to an outdoor literary festival 4 hours away, pay $30 for the privilege of being there, and sit in the August heat all day hoping to make book sales to perfect strangers. You are not required to send press releases about your latest book to every newspaper within 100 miles.

In fact, you’re not required to do anything. But you will. You will do crazy things to make sales. You’ll do it in the name of networking, to help a friend, or just because it appeals to you.

That’s actually the key to happy promotion, in my opinion. Do the no-brainer stuff first, the stuff that’s easy or that you enjoy. Then chose something outside your comfort zone and do that. A little later, try something else. Keep track of how much time and effort these activities take. You’ll need that feedback for your next book.

Recently, I was asked to do the same talk two weeks in a row to different groups. I was highly stressed for the first talk but it went over great. I didn’t even sweat the second talk, until that morning when I wanted to look over my notes, and I couldn’t find them. My brain froze. Honest.

I could barely remember my name, much less my topic, which was “Ways to get started in writing.” I had a full fledged panic attack, then I realized what I was doing. I was all worked up about a talk I could do in my sleep. A few more deep breaths, and my brain unfroze. Then I remembered where I’d stashed the notes - in the tote with my books to sell. Duh. I gave the talk and I didn’t glance at my notes once.

Why? Because I believed in myself. Same as you believe in yourself. When you’re called upon to step outside your comfort zone, take that deep breath. Close your eyes and become fearless like Luke Skywalker in Star Wars.

May the force be with you in all your promotional and writing events!
Maggie Toussaint
No Second Chance, electronic release 12/28/07 from The Wild Rose Press
http://www.maggietoussaint.com/
cross-posted at www.sweeterromanticnotions.com/blog

Finally, This Season review

Finally, This Season has been reviewed by The Long and The Short of It Reviews and has gotten a 5-Book Rating! Here's what they had to say:

"Finally, This Season will beguile romance fans from the very first line. This short, historic romance is an absolute delight.

The old world sense combines with that hint of formality that marked the life of the gentry of old. We follow this story from Central Park to ballroom. Yet, comfortably familiar though the setting is, the unexpected spontaneity of the story bubbles through.

The tone of the dialogue enhances this, by offering a certain level of lightheartedness. The dialogue even gives a hint of history, through word choice and sentence structure. I can do no better than to offer a short excerpt:

"For you it seems a small payment, but for me...ah, it is a most treasured gift." He turned toward the path and held out his arm. "Shall we?"

The quality of the main characters is undeniable, the conflict realistic, the lovely Miss Alexandra Parkington, practical. This is the classic romance.

Five books to Ms. Leone and a thank-you for this most engaging of reads."

Woo Hoo! I am thrilled!!

~Sarita Leone
Sarita Leone

It's Here! It's Here!

My author copies of The Space Between arrived in the mail today.

My book is shiny. It's petite yet not flimsy. The paper inside is bright, with easy to read type. If you look closely at the braided grass on the shark tooth necklace, you can't tell I drew the grass myself. Can you?

If you're in the mood for a plane crash, a hurricane, a crazy used car salesman and a bit of kissin', order it from Amazon.com or Amazon.ca today.

If you're in the Newmarket or Toronto area and you want me to sign your book, I'll throw in a shark tooth necklace for free.

Humpty Dumpty's Wall

Recently I hit a huge wall. It smacked me hard. I didn't get a concussion, but instead faced major reconstructive surgery. No plastic surgeon could assist me. I had to perform the operation.

What happened? It's a long sad story, but deserves telling...

I had a perfectly wonderful and exciting plot for a new book. The hero and heroine were perfectly suited and their goals were totally opposite. Getting them together would be a roller coaster ride of emotions. I dove into the novel and churned out the pages. They flowed seamlessly until I hit page 156 and that brick wall.

I found myself forcing pages, writing too much introspection, dragging the manuscript along. I finally stopped, stepped back, and held my head in horror. I would never finish this manuscript!

What did I do?

I gave myself a break from writing. The timing was perfect. My RWA chapter conference was approaching and I had volunteered to help out with stuffing goody bags, attending a booksigning, and picking up an editor at the airport. For a week I didn't even think about those pages impaled on that impassable wall. I enjoyed the conference, made new friends, sold some books, and attended lots of workshops.

At some point during that fabulous weekend, the answer to my problem came to me like a bright light from a dark void. I had started the story at the wrong point. I needed to write what I had considered the backstory. Everything fell into place. I have the new beginning outlined and I'm ready to start pounding the keyboard once again. I know the story will be much stronger now.

If you ever find yourself at a loss for words, if you are struggling to get from one point to the next, step back and take a look at your beginning. Starting the story in the right place is crucial to the success of your manuscript.

Thanks for reading!

FOXFIRE, Romantic Suspense
HIT AND RUN, Romantic Suspense

Listen to my Interview!

Hi Fellow Roses and Friends!

Recently I had the privelege of being interviewed by Yvonne Perry who owns/operates Write On! Creative Writing Services and Writer's in the Sky Blog, Newsletter and Podcast.

To listen to the interview, click here!

Until later remember....when the going gets tough, the tough get on their knees.

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!"

Cowboy Up

Lest we forget summer's heat so soon, here's a poem I wrote in the summer of 2006. It has a Yellow Rose feel to it, follwing TWRP's garden pattern, so thought I'd share. Enjoy!

Plum juice runs down
My arms between us as
We share a giggle and
A bite—another nibble
On my neck below my ear,
Your breath sticky, plum forgotten.
Near the kitchen sink but not
Exactly over it, the fight
We had earlier forgotten,
You explore what
Brought us together on
Our pre-date so many
Years ago, when
You kissed me
And I returned it,
Un-shy and hungry,
Lips tongue and hands
Where they had no business going
On a man I barely knew.
And I stopped you at my panties
Only because my period was due
Not because I was modest.

Here we are,
Years, houses and baby
From where we began,
Yet your lips opening
And tongue loving mine
Shivers my knees,
Makes me damp beneath.
I grasp the edge of the sink behind,
You lean into my flesh,
Hands on my tush.
Dog's been out, She's asleep—
Let's go, cowboy. . .


Kelly McCrady author site

Coiled Revenge is Now Available

I'm so excited, Coiled Revenge is out.

Coiled Revenge is a sexy read about Tony, the detective who thinks he can save his town but is he really the cause of the problems? Marissa isn't taking junk from anyone. She is ready to defend herself, but must rely on Tony when everything falls apart for her.

Marissa hadn’t seen him yet. His eyes roved over her body, studying every detail. Her golden skin shone in the sun, making Tony want to caress her arms. She was still as beautiful as she had been the day they met. The fear of losing her forever brought pain to his chest. Regret over his past mistakes snaked through his mind. How had he ever been so stupid?

“Tony.” Marissa waved as she turned towards him. Smiling, he moved through the tables and chairs. Seizing the moment, he lowered his head to kiss her before she had a chance to turn away. Her shoulders stiffened when his lips brushed hers, but he wouldn’t apologize. He would never apologize for kissing her.

Buy Coiled Revenge today and immerse yourself into Tony and Marissa's world.

A winter's tale

Remember, remember the fifth of November
Of gunpowder, treason and plot
Of intrigue and romance and ambition
At King James' court

And Guy Fawkes and Catesby and others
For theirs is a tale of woe
Captured in Ripples in the Water
A twist in a tale of old

Michelle Chambers- Ripples in the Water
Available from: http://www.thewildrosepress.com
http://www.amazon.com

Dressage Cowboy; a horse-lovers read

I am pleased to announce that, mere days after the release of my first WildRose Press story: ( Dressage Cowboy ) I have somehow fought my way through the googlepuzzle and managed to get back into the blogosphere.
I had successfully signed up ages ago... and leapt back aboard to announce the new release only to find myself tossed overboard. So, a few days late but nonetheless excited:
For horse enthusiasts out there, (or even those who just find that muscular cowboy appealing) may I present "Dressage Cowboy." This short story takes place in a very short span of time; but for any of you that have trotted around the warm-up ring waiting for your class to be called, you understand how interminable that time can be. It can be so much more pleasurable to have, shall we say, a handsome diversion to soothe those competition jitters away.
This is the very first in what I hope will be a 'Horse-lovers series.' The stories will feature many different activities from the riding - and carriage driving - worlds. From reining to three-day eventing, driving that carriage on a marathon course or executing a shoulder-in, this series will put all sorts of different breeds- and all sorts of different people- in the 'show-ring.' I would love feedback on it: if you read it, please do jump in and email me if you have any comments! Drivenwizard1 at yahoo.com (fix that 'at," & no spaces.)
There is nothing like the chink of spurs as that rough-n-ready fellow marches over to give you the good-old-boys' standard greeting...

The Pirate and The Pussycat... officially released!

Well, it's been a long time coming, but my first book has finally been released. YIPPEE! THE PIRATE AND THE PUSSYCAT (a Scarlet Rosette for Halloween) is available now from The Wild Rose Press.


I LOVE the folks over at The Wild Rose Press aka TWRP, they are without a doubt, the most professional e-publisher I've ever had the pleasure of dealing with. I'm not knocking the other e-pubs, mind you, I'm simply saying personally *I* have had the most satisfying experience both buying from and selling to these folks. And I HAVE to add how much I ADORE my editor, Jennifer. I'd mention her last name, but I think she may have a side job as a ninja and will hurt me if I give out too much info (psst, look at the about us page on TWRP and you might find her, hee hee!) Oh, and thanks to Rae Monet who made that sexy cover. She's so talented!

I had a wonderful writer named Shelby Reed give me a fantastic review on The Pirate and the Pussycat and I have to share it with you because it made me giddy that this ultra-talented author gave me such praise. Here 'tis:

"The Pirate and the Pussycat is a definite keeper for this reader! Paisley Scott’s characters bring humor,unexpected plot twists and unbelievable heat to every page…and did I mention the heat? The sheer sexual chemistry between the hero and heroine will knock your socks off! Kudos to this talented, up-and-coming author. I can’t wait for her next release." —Shelby Reed

Raise your hand if you heard me SQUEEEEE into the next county. Wasn't that an awesome thing to say? And from someone who is thisclose to being a legend in the romantica field?? OMG I feel lightheaded.

Okay... let me get down to business. Without further ado... I give you a tiny sampling of the book (hey, it's a rosette... 17 pages long. There's only so much I can post, y'know?). Please let me know what you think! WARNING: The excerpt is for an erotic story, therefore it is R-rated in description.

~hugs all around,
Paisley
THE PIRATE AND THE PUSSYCAT (a Scarlet Rosette for Halloween)
-coming September 26, 2007 from The Wild Rose Press.

Paisley Scott
http://www.paisleyscott.com
http://www.myspace.com/paisleyscott
http://www.bebo.com/PaisleyScott
====================================

BLURB:
Not in a million years would anyone have guessed it was Cecilia Thomas, high school science teacher, beneath the tight-fitting cat woman costume. But when a sexy swashbuckler captures her at the Halloween Ball, Celia soon discovers the treasure waiting for her in a pirate's bed.

** WARNING: The excerpt is for an erotic story, therefore it is R-rated in description. **

EXCERPT:
"Ahoy there!" a voice boomed from above.

Looking up, Celia spotted a man dressed like a pirate captain -- or at least the sort of pirate captain she’d always fantasized about. A white, ruffled shirt open to his waist adorned his muscular chest. His pants were tight and black, leaving little to the imagination. The bright red silk sash tied around his waist only accentuated his manly bulge. A pair of high boots cuffed at the top rounded out his outfit.

He slid down the ropes and drew his cutlass as he approached. "What business have you aboard my ship, wench?"

Wearing a bandana around his head and a Zorro-type mask across his eyes, his face was a mystery. His voice was smooth, like perfectly aged brandy, and his body was to-die-for. His tanned forearms, visible through the lightweight shirt, were strong and sinewy, the dark hair covering them lightened to a golden shade by the sun. Her gaze wandered across the scarlet sash at his waist and lingered a moment, appreciating the way his upper torso slimmed, then flared at his legs. Damn, he had nice thighs. Encased in the tight-fitting pants, the muscles bunched and relaxed with each movement. Her mind wandered, conjuring images of how his body would look without clothes. Her breath caught. He would be magnificent.

"What’s the matter? Cat got your tongue, kitty?" he asked, trailing the blunt side of his cutlass against her bare arm.

She shivered as the cool steel slid across her skin. The feel of it was dangerous and alluring at the same time.

This is role-playing, Celia. You can do this. "S-sir, I need passage on your ship."

"Women are not allowed." His amber gaze raked her from head to toe.

She cleared her throat, exorcising the nervousness. "But sir, I have already stowed away." She indicated their surroundings. "The next port isn’t for miles. Please. As a gentleman, you must help me."

He sheathed his sword. "Madam, I assure you I am no gentleman." His eyes darkened rakishly. He straightened and held out a hand. "Pray, what number have you?"

"Seven." She gave him the slip of paper.

"Ah yes. Lucky number seven." A dark eyebrow arched thoughtfully above his mask as he glanced at the note. "This guarantees you safe passage upon my vessel." He slipped the paper into his pocket. "Come now, wench, before the crew sees you."

Celia followed him below the deck and into a lavishly decorated cabin. There was a huge round bed situated against the back of the make-believe ship. A night scene embellished the windows behind the bed, complete with a full moon reflected against the inky darkness of the night sea. It was so realistic. So far, she was loving this game.

He leaned down to her. "What are you called?" His voice was low and husky against her ear.

Shivers ran up her spine. It was hard to stay focused.

His warm breath blew across her skin, caressing her. "Y-you may call me Kitty."

"Kitty," he purred, a small grin lifting his mouth. "I am Captain Rolfe." He closed the doors behind them and turned the heavy iron key in the lock. Withdrawing the key, he handed it to her. "Keep this safe." He sauntered over to the small bar against the side wall. "Would you like a drink? Wine? Rum? Brandy?"

Yo ho ho and a bottle of..."Rum, please?" She slipped the key into her boot.

He glanced over his shoulder. "Whatever you want...Kitty."

A thrill skipped down her spine. From the gleam in his topaz eyes, to the glint of white teeth against his tanned skin, the man absolutely oozed sexiness. A pirate hadn’t looked so yummy since Johnny Depp sailed the Caribbean.

Drinks in hand, he walked to her. "Did I mention I, too, am a seven?" He raised his glass and clinked it against hers in a toast.

"Oh?" She took a long pull of the rum, welcoming the warmth as it tumbled down her throat. "What a lucky coincidence."

Above his mask, a dark eyebrow arched. "And do you know what our having matching numbers means, lovely Kitty?"

The endearment caressed her skin, fluttered down her tummy and pooled hotly between her thighs. Good God, what was he doing to her? She shook her head. "Not exactly." It was getting hard to breathe in the suddenly small room.

"Allow me to explain. As the female, you are basically in charge of our...time together. You have the key. You set the pace. You are in charge of everything. The rules are yours to make..." A slow, wicked grin curved his lips. "...or break."

"What do you mean, our time together?" She wasn’t scared, but more intrigued by the idea of how this might play out. Titillated, her breasts grew heavy, pressing against the tight latex of her costume. "Do you mean…sex?"

He reached out and trailed his thumb along her jaw. "You are in charge. Whatever you desire."

Her senses ignited at his touch while his velvet voice curled around her like a living thing, vibrating through her. "Yes." She rubbed her cheek against his hand.

"Yes what?"

"Yes to the sex part." She licked her lips and planted an open-mouth kiss against the palm of his hand. "That is what I desire, sir." She let her gloves drop to the floor. He pulled her to him and kissed her hard and deep.His tongue swirled in her mouth, mating hotly with hers. Firm, strong hands slid up her naked midriff to settle on her breasts.

The five inches of added height from her boots made kissing him absolutely perfect. She arched against his hand, hoping the costume would magically evaporate so his fingers could explore more. And those sexy lips. He even tasted tropical, like coconut and Captain Morgan rum.

She unbuttoned the last two buttons on his shirt and pushed it open completely, leaving it gaping in front. Her lips began a slow journey down the side of his jaw, down his neck and across his chest. She blazed a trail of hot kisses across his hard, bronze chest and the washboard abs of his stomach. He was delicious and rock-solid.Sliding her hands down to the sash still knotted at his waist, she fumbled blindly until she got it untied. Next, she unlaced the cotton pants and dipped her fingers inside to explore what lay within.

Catching his shallow groan in her mouth, she smiled to herself as her fingers wound around his turgid length.He was hot and hard, yet smooth and silky. She squeezed slightly, and he groaned again. God, this was going to be good.

Pulling back, Celia ordered, "Take off your pants."

Again, the brow rose. "Just my pants?"

She ran the tip of her nail over her still-tingling lips."For now."

He hooked both thumbs into his waistband and pushed the material down past his knees, finally kicking them and his boots aside. The black briefs he wore were trimmed in red and displayed a skull and crossbones on the fly.

Celia closed the short distance between them and rubbed his crotch. She purred, "Permission to hoist the Jolly Roger, Captain Rolfe."

His sharp intake of breath was all the answer she needed.

Does True Love Exist?

As readers and writers of romance, we deal with love all the time.
I'm on a friend's "quote du jour" list and this offering made me think. What's your take?

"What do you believe is true even though you cannot prove it?"

This was the question posed to scientists, futurists and other creative thinkers by John Brockman, a literary agent and publisher of Edge, a Web site devoted to science. The question is different each year, this one was from 2005.

David Buss
Psychologist, University of Texas; author, "The Evolution of Desire" :

True love.

I've spent two decades of my professional life studying human mating. In that time, I've documented phenomena ranging from what men and women desire in a mate to the most diabolical forms of sexual treachery. I've discovered the astonishingly creative ways in which men and women deceive and manipulate each other. I've studied mate poachers, obsessed stalkers, sexual predators and spouse murderers. But throughout this exploration of the dark dimensions of human mating, I've remained unwavering in my belief in true love.

While love is common, true love is rare, and I believe that few people are fortunate enough to experience it. The roads of regular love are well traveled and their markers are well understood by many - the mesmerizing attraction, the ideational obsession, the sexual afterglow, profound self-sacrifice and the desire to combine DNA. But true love takes its own course through uncharted territory. It knows no fences, has no barriers or boundaries. It's difficult to define, eludes modern measurement and seems scientifically woolly. But I know true love exists. I just can't prove it.

What was your first story?

~ Lynette Rees ~

Last year at my first book launch, I told the guests how my English teacher used to read my stories out to the class. I was about fourteen at the time. I wrote other stories before those of course, but they were my most memorable ones. Probably because the girls in my class used to beg me to read out the endings if the teacher hadn't got that far before the bell rang.

One story in particular stands out in my mind. It was about a newly-wed couple. What the young bride hadn't realised was that her husband was a serial killer who chopped his last wife up into bits and disposed of her body in a baling machine, so all her body parts were embedded in bales of hay!

Now where I got that story from, I haven't a clue! At that time, I loved magazines like 'Loving' and 'Love Affair' which I read at night under the covers by torchlight when my parents thought I was asleep. Those stories were written in the first person and seemed very true to life.

I'd penned the story about the young bride in the first person, as if I was that woman [not a fourteen-year -old school girl.] Maybe that's what my teacher liked about my stories, I don't know. I can't remember the ending but I know the bride would have come out of it okay. I wouldn't have allowed any harm to come to her. As for that evil hubby of hers -- I guess he's still rotting behind bars!

Today, I'm just as gruesome as ever. Although I write romance, I love throwing in the odd dead body and a bit of organised crime. And guess what? I adore TV programmes like 'The Sopranos' and films like 'The Godfather'. No surprises there.

It's only now in retrospect I realise I've been a story teller most of my life.

So, the question is, what was your first story, the one that sticks in your mind?

Freedom's Touch

A few days ago I read all of the Celtic Brooch stories that have been released so far. What a series! My story, Freedom's Touch, is the second story in the series and really, I'm so pleased to be part of such a talented group of writers. I loved writing my story and I love reading the other contributions. I look forward to each new release.

This Saturday morning I thought I'd share a small excerpt of my story, Freedom's Touch. It takes place during the Civil War, when women struggled on the homefront while their men decided the nation's destiny. I hope you enjoy it. :)

~Sarita Leone
http://saritaleone.blogspot.com/
www.saritaleone.com

Weary, that’s what I am. Plain weary. This whole
affair has gone on for so long, with so much heartbreak.
Even when I try and do all I can to further our cause there
always seems to be a blockade to go around…or over…or
under. Why oh why can’t everyone see this slavery issue for
what it is? Why can’t we simply let people live as they were
intended to live without having to go through all of this
misery? Damn, I’m so tired of it all! Just so…

At the sound of the approaching horse, Kay turned
and opened the door. Had Captain Conrad forgotten to
tell her something? Surely not another maudlin
warning…

Stepping out onto the porch, she noticed, as she had
earlier, the scent of a few early rose blooms that wafted
upward on the night air and surrounded her with their
sweet fragrance. A distant grandmother’s transplant, the
roses grew in abundance beside the front porch and along
the back wall of the garden, in the side cutting garden
and near the barn. Their fragrance masked the odor of the
privy, as well. Apparently a snippet of a rose bush grew in
profusion when planted in rich, sweet soil!

Crossing her arms over her bosom, she waited for the
men to make themselves known to her a second time. She
saw only one large black mass in the darkness and
thought Mr. Parker must wait at the end of the lane,
assumed that the Captain had one last word or two to
exchange with her.

The voice that came to her from the gloom wasn’t the
one she expected. It was, instead, the voice she heard
night after night in her dreams.

“Why, you’d think it was an ordinary occasion for you
to receive visitors after dark, the way you’re standing
there in your night dress.”

“Marsh—is that really you?”

The figure swung off his mount, secured the animal
to the hitching post and took the steps two at a time.

“Of course it’s me, Katy-did. Did you expect someone
else?” His teasing tone made her heart skip a beat, as did
the familiar nickname—no one else called her Katy-did
but Marsh. The sound of it on his lips stole her breath
away.

Throwing her arms around him, she lifted her face to
his and smiled. He felt solid in her arms, the living
embodiment of her endless imaginings. Pressing herself to
him, she opened her mouth to speak but didn’t manage to
utter a sound. Marsh’s mouth met hers with a hunger
that took them both by surprise. Their lips touched, their
tongues explored and their bodies heated as all the
repressed desires rose to the surface in the beat of their
hearts. Kay met his touch without restraint, her tongue
swirling around his in the age-old dance of love that
required no lessons.

The thin cotton nightdress provided no buffer
between her body and the regulation uniform Marsh was
wearing. His arousal was evident, insistent against her
body as her hips ground into his.

I don’t know what you’re doing here, my darling man,
but I’m not going to let you go until we’ve dropped these
barriers between us. So often I wonder if I’ll ever see you
again. Why waste what precious time we have on social
protocol? It’s ridiculous, and I won’t stand for it, not
another second. In this world, a second may have to
sustain us for a lifetime. And more importantly, you feel so
completely enchanting…

The Sweetheart Tree

Hi all. Thought I'd put up my new trailer. I'm getting better at these. This one almost looks professional.

Coming Soon! 2 Rosettes - Cathy's Angel & Choices!

Wow! Is all I can say about the cover artists at TWRP!

I've received the covers for my two Rosettes already and they are so beautiful and fit the stories perfectly! Below are the blurbs and the covers...WOW!

Best-selling novelist and songwriter Camie Rogers has penned numerous accounts of the secret love she holds in her heart. Country-Music Superstar Kip Allen has changed from the shy, humble boy, to the epitome of “star.” Can the two rediscover each other after one night of his Home is where the Heart is Tour? Find out in Choices....coming Soon! from The Wild Rose Press!

Single mom Cathy Johnson is tired of running her life alone…what she needs is a well-trained angel to help out. Jared Soileau gave up the dream of having a family when he discovered he is sterile. Can a confirmed bachelor and the mother of four find love amid normal daily chaos? Find out in Cathy's Angel coming Soon! from The Wild Rose Press!

IMW, check out my debut single-title novel The Inheritance, available NOW! from The Wild Rose Press!

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!"

I Second the Notion -- 3 Cheers for TWRP!

I too am pleased and excited to be associated with The Wild Rose Press!

My novel, The Inheritance was well recieved, well edited and well presented by the staff of TWRP and now, I have 2 short stories accepted also!

Watch for Choices and Cathy's Angel coming soon!

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!"

Three cheers for The Wild Rose Press!

A year ago, I left my old publisher. I won't mention the name here as I don't want to get sued but let's just say the parting was amicable. I wanted to leave and I suspect after all the fuss I made, they were glad to see the back of me.

You see, I knew they weren't serving my needs as an author. There was a distinct lack of communication from them, plus I was expected to pay a set-up fee for the privilege of publication. I got to thinking I deserved better as an author. So as soon as I was released, I sought a new publisher.

Following my experience with that publisher, I had certain expectations I wanted to see fulfilled from my new publisher. The first one, I wanted good communication. The second, they would respect me as an author, so I could keep my particular Welsh voice and British spellings. The third requirement was that they would spell my name correctly, the last publisher hadn't even managed to do that.

I had heard about The Wild Rose Press from somewhere, I can't remember where it was now, probably an online writers' group or something, and thought I would give them a go.

I was delighted when It Happened One Summer and Return to Winter were accepted for publication.

I have to say that The Wild Rose Press has exceeded my expectations as a publisher. Communication is fantastic. If I send an e-mail to one of my editors or anyone else on staff, it's answered within a reasonable amount of time. Unlike my old publisher where I tried to contact three members of staff one week on an urgent matter and not one of them replied!

I have been treated so well as an author by everyone. Today, I sent off the contract for my third book, Watching You, for publication next year. I was just as thrilled to get this one accepted as I was last year with the other two.

My romantic suspense editor, Ally Robertson, has gone above and beyond the call of duty as an editor. She's inspired and encouraged me and Watching You is dedicated to her.

The Wild Rose Press is an exceptional publisher in my eyes.

Three cheers for The Wild Rose Press!!!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Angela Perry, our SEVEN OF CUPS contest winner!

Yay, Angela! I hope you enjoy the book!

Joanna K. Moore

For Love or Money now available!

The seventh novella in the popular Legacy of the Celtic Brooch series is Karen Duvall's For Love or Money and it's now available from The Wild Rose Press!

Claire Ballard has spent her adolescent and adult life caring for her alcoholic mother and Down Syndrome sister, when a car accident takes both of them away from her. Having seen herself only as a caregiver all her life, she's suddenly slapped in the face with a new reality. Her estranged father is killed soon after, and he's left her a beautiful family heirloom as well as a lot of money. Claire sees this heirloom as a sign, a charm that brings her good luck, and she makes changes to herself to reflect that good fortune. The duckling becomes the swan, but she soon learns that change comes from within herself, from something that was always there to begin with, beginning in her childhood. It just took a "trigger" to bring it out.

A Scottish crime family named Coine claim the brooch really belongs to them and they'll do whatever it takes to get it back. Liam Coine has his own agenda, part of which is to claim Claire as his own. Getting the brooch would just be an added bonus. Their families' feud makes for a fiery connection between Liam and Claire, but their attraction to each other fuels the flame even more. Will the brooch be responsible for getting Claire killed by the same family of criminals who murdered her father? Or will it reunite her with her childhood crush, Liam the classroom bully?

"Karen Duvall's FOR LOVE OR MONEY is a tantalizing blend of suspense and humor bathed in the golden glow of rediscovered love. I guarantee you'll read it from start to finish without pause." – Alice Sharpe, Harelquin Intrigue author

"With FOR LOVE OR MONEY, Karen Duvall takes readers on a fast-paced adventure full of excitement and romance." -- Cindi Myers, author of Marriage On Her Mind, (Harlequin, October 2007)

"A cool, sexy romance heightened by danger, mystery and a hint of mysticism involving a priceless Scottish heirloom, FOR LOVE OR MONEY pits a feisty redhead against an irresistible, modern-day highlander." – Cassie Miles, author of Navajo Echoes (Harlequin Intrigue, July 2007)

Read the first chapter of FOR LOVE OR MONEY on my website:
http://www.karen-duvall.com
http://www.karenduvall.blogspot.com

It's here! SEVEN OF CUPS is on sale NOW!

It's here! SEVEN OF CUPS is on sale NOW! AND, a fresh CONTEST!

Yes---SEVEN OF CUPS is on sale NOW in re-release ebook format at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/ ! The second novel in the Magical Mysterious Sisters series, this book features Selene's younger sister, Izzy, and her own experience with the magical, mysterious, romantic, and murderous happenings in Fort Bedford, Florida. You won't want to miss it! Here's what reviewers say about SEVEN OF CUPS:

"A year ago Izzy’s life-love Sean was murdered. He was the only man whom until then she had thought she could find happiness with. Now, finally, she’s begun seeing Brian intimately, despite the feud his grandmother still carries against Izzy’s family from decades earlier. Izzy’s sister Selene is a powerful witch who had joined forces with the man who later became her lover to combat the town’s serial killer menace last year, and in the process had come into her powers more fully.Izzy works as waitress at her sister’s restaurant and when a suave and handsome stranger arrives, radiating waves of trouble and recording notes constantly, Izzy’s instincts go on high alert. She denies the metaphysical and witch-like gifts her sister Selene possesses, but still she recognizes the danger presented by this new individual and determines to guard against him.

Seven of Cups aptly blends a suspenseful plot line and background from an earlier installment in the series with the paranormal element and steamy sensuality to create a page-turner, readers will find captivating. Joanna K. Moore has a fine gift with plotting and character development. In Seven of Cups her weaving of the plot themes is especially emphasized, and excellent. This is a good all-round read for readers looking for an excellent story with heat and passion, mystery and paranormal activities as well."

---4.5 Kisses from Two Lips Reviews

AND! To celebrate, we're having a SEVEN OF CUPS contest at my author blog, http://www.joannakmoore.blogspot.com/ ! Winner receives a FREE PDF COPY of SEVEN OF CUPS! What do you have to do? Simple. Pick a number between 0 and 50. Email it to jkmoorebooks@aol.com . The person closest to the winning number will be the winner! Winner will be announced at my blog on Monday, Sept. 3rd, 2007, so get your entry in asap! Good Luck to all entrants!

Meanwhile...I'd love to hear from readers of both THREE OF SWORDS and SEVEN OF CUPS. Email me at the above address, and let me know what you think of the Sisters!

Until next time,
Hugs,
Joanna K. Moore
www.myspace.com/joannakmoore
http://www.joannakmoore.blogspot.com/

GIVEAWAY!!!

I'm giving away another free, autographed copy of my romantic suspense novel, "Midnight Angel". If you haven't read or received a copy of my book yet, please sign up!

All you have to do to enter your name in the drawing is simply leave a comment to the contest blog post on my personal blog (www.betsy-ann.blogspot.com) and follow the instructions there!

Thanks so much for playing! =)
DRAWING WILL BE HELD SEPTEMBER 7th!

Hidden Shadows - New book, New author

I'm new here to the Wild Rose and wanted to say hello to everyone and introduce myself. I'm Lauren Hope, I'm writing for the Crimson Line, and my first novel, Hidden Shadows is on it's way to being released! It's a tale of loves, lies, and murder that I hope you'll enjoy.

**With a failed marriage and bitter betrayal tucked in her suitcase of baggage, Jenna Gregor is admittedly cynical and pessimistic concerning men and the prospect of a lasting relationship. When Bennett Aston sweeps into her life like a sturdy gust of wind, she jumps to defend herself at every angle from his easy confidence, southern charm, and unnerving good looks.

But in the shadows of Jenna’s past lay deep secrets. And there, a mad woman lurks in the darkness, ready to ruin all Jenna holds dear. As life as Jenna knows it begins to unravel, she finds herself in a tangled web of lies, suspicion, and murder. She must look deep inside herself to find the courage for forgiveness, trust, and self-acceptance. Only then will she discover love, redemption, and ultimately, survival.

http://laurenhope-booknews.blogspot.com/

ANGELIC VOICES is Available NOW!

Come check it out! Deanne looks great on the Climbing Rose page.

Woot!!

I hope you'll enjoy getting to know Deanne. I'm seriously considering growing her up a few years and giving her a novel of her own.

Let me know what you think!

ANGELIC VOICES by Deb Logan

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press - Climbing Rose

Rating: Sweet

Length: Rosette

Price: $1.50

Genre: Contemporary YA

YouTube

See me on YouTube...LOL

http://www.youtube.com/user/miwidenhaag

Michelle Chambers-Ripples in the Water

Local girl; local news

Absolutely thrilled to have had my first interview. Fingers crossed it helps with sales.

Michelle Chambers- Ripples in the Water

Read an excerpt from Ripples in the Water:

The coach door having been thrown open now rattled hard in the wind. Its passenger, undaunted by the thought of any discomfort, battled the blustery weather.
“Davy, are you all right? What happened?” he called above the shriek of the storm.
“I'm fine, my lord,” Davy shot back. “Something spooked the horses.”
“What was it?”
“Some dead animal or other I think. It's still there in the middle of the carriageway.” He nodded towards the sprawled, black, mass.
Seizing the lighted wick the Earl of Hawkridge edged towards the shapeless form. “Be careful, my lord,” Davy yelled. He tightened his grip on Mistral’s reins.
The light parted the darkness, and revealed the still figure of a woman lying on the highway. Lord Hawkridge hastened forward, and dropped to his knees. Anxiously he felt for signs of life. A low moan escaped her lips. She was alive. Though barely, he thought. Oblivious to the rain lashing down on him he removed his cloak, and draped it over the faintly trembling body. She moaned again, and in one swift movement he‘d scooped her into his arms, and brushed past Davy’s stunned countenance.
“Jesus, Mary and Joseph,” Davy exclaimed. “It's a woman,” he said, concluding the obvious. “What’s she doing out here, in the middle of nowhere, and at this ungodly hour?” He hastened after Lord Hawkridge.
Lord Hawkridge placed the woman in the warmth of his carriage and stared down at the bruised face partially covered by dark tendrils of her hair. She was so slight he marvelled how she’d thus far survived the bitter weather.
“I do not know, Davy,” he said giving answer, though more to himself than his coachman. His hand instinctively recoiled from the woman’s hair as she moaned again, and turned her amber coloured gaze unexpectedly onto his. Something stirred deep within him. A feeling he’d long forgotten; a feeling he’d not experienced with anyone since Anne-Marie. Anne-Marie. Lord Hawkridge briefly closed his eyes. How long had it been, since her death?
Fear widened the woman’s eyes still further as recognition seemed to dawn in their depths. “No,” she screamed. “No.” She clawed frantically at the face above hers, her nails leaving their mark. Lunging past Lord Hawkridge she reached for the coach door eliciting an oath from him in his surprise.
“You little fool,” he ground out, and pulled her roughly back to him. “Would you kill yourself?” She struggled feverishly in his arms.
“Let me go,” she cried.
“Be still.” His terse command cut through her bewildered brain, shocking her into silence. Her defiance short-lived she sank wearily against his chest the tiniest of sobs rising in her throat.
“Let me be,” she pleaded softly. “Please…let me be.”

My Lab Partners story released today

I'm really excited that my short story via the Vintage Line has released today. I want to thank my wonderful editor, Anna, for her patience and hard work to see this come about. She provided valuable insight on the blurb for which I approved. May I give you that blurb? Okay.

Leroy Doyle, a college chemistry major and track star is on the verge of scholastic probation after flunking calculus. As he enters his sophomore year he can't afford the distractions of having a girl friend, but that changes once he meets Jody Stinson. A chemical engineering major and the smartest student in the sophomore class, she is beautiful, arrogant and not very happy about being forced into being his lab partner. But Leroy senses there is more to Jody than she portrays to the outside world. Her treatment of him only serves to fuel his interest and despite her barbed remarks, he strives to win her heart.

I thorougly enjoyed writing this story and like the characters.

Review for Words

I was delighted to see a review for "Words" from Long and Short Reviews:

This is an intriguing story by Terry Odell. It is told from the perspective of both the husband and the wife —- a pair of newlyweds. It is amazing to see what can be done in just six pages. Ms Odell is indeed a skillful storyteller.

You can read the rest here

It's especially pleasing, since this was the first piece of writing I ever published, and I'm grateful to The Wild Rose Press for getting me started.

Two New Stories Released Today!

It just doesn't get any better than this -- I have not one, but TWO new rosettes being released today! I'm so excited, I can keep it in!

Here are my new stories, released just this morning:

Pregnancy Cravings

Patrice would do anything for her pregnant friend, Cathy, even if "anything" includes running to the convenience store daily to indulge her cravings. On one excursion, Patrice meets Joey Sousa, the cashier at the store. Their attraction is undeniable, but awkward: he thinks she's pregnant, she thinks he's dating someone else. Will the misunderstandings keep them apart, or will their chance meeting give birth to happy ever after?

Magic

For fifteen years, seven friends have gathered for a vacation at Lake Wentworth, NH. This year is no different -- except this time, Cass Edwards has trouble looking at her best-friend-since-forever Ben Wilson as just a friend. Can two people in search of a future find it in a mutual past? Will love strengthen the bonds of their friendship or destroy them?

Thanks for letting me share my great news with you.

New Review of "Love of My Heart" by Bess McBride from The Long and Short of It Blogspot

I'm excited to post my new review of my debut novel, a Faery Rose, "Love of My Heart" by the Long and Short of It Blogspot http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/

Review: Love of My Heart

Love of My Heart by Bess McBride

Aggie has done what no mental health therapist should do. She's fallen in love with her mysterious client, Bill. Aggie has recently purchased an old Victorian house on a hillside overlooking Commencement Bay in Tacoma, Washington; where she finds an old photograph of a Victorian era couple and a love letter written in 1885. The letter speaks of another love that can never be'that of Louise, the daughter of a wealthy English family, and her Irish lover, William. Heartbroken, Aggie soon begins to dream of the forbidden love between Louise and William, but in her dreams, William's face mirrors that of her beloved, Bill.Bill is in love with Aggie, and he can't figure out how to get close to her. If only he hadn't entered her professional doors as a client. How is he going to fix this?

"Love of My Heart is a beautiful, romantic story with a mild supernatural bent. The two main human love interests are Aggie, a therapist who is attracted to her client and is torn between her needs as a woman and her profession's Code of Ethics, and Bill, who has secrets that he won't let out in therapy not the least of which is his own attraction to Aggie.

The secondary supernatural romantic plot centers on past lovers, Louise and William. Louise lived in the house that Aggie now owns and is instrumental in getting Aggie to listen to her heart by drawing Aggie into her dreams to re-live Louise's romance with William way back in the 1800's.

Due to the style of how the paragraphs of this book are presented, it was a bit jarring at times when it came to POV shifts or time shifts. If you can anticipate this style, then you will find it easier to enjoy the nuances of this romance story.

The author has a good handle on how it was to be a woman living at home back then; where daddy's word was law. Love was not enough to withstand the strictures of a prejudicial society and I was very frustrated and angry on Louise's behalf. Yet, I felt satisfied with the strengths she showed when she exercised the only options she was capable of for those times.

I found William O'Brien's love for Louise to be quite poignant and continued to be amazed at his steadfastness as I read the letters he wrote to Louise and in time, his old landlady. Best of all, was his yummy Irish brogue. I could well understand Louise's being attracted to a man with a sexy accent.

The best part of this story is that true love endures. The author gives the reader a HEA that ties up all the loose ends, even the supernatural. Interestingly enough, she wrote the course of Louise's and William's romance in a way that could mirror real life; decisions we make along the way affect our future in surprising ways.

I enjoyed reading about how a man and a woman from two diverse families, influenced and manipulated by the ghosts of the past, find love in the future. Ms. McBride has an incredible turn of mind."

Wish me luck on my next release, "A Sigh of Love," coming soon from The Wild Rose Press.

Bess McBride.
"Romances for the Shy Girl in All of Us"
http://www.bessmcbride.com/
www.myspace.com/bessmcbride
Love of My Heart available now from http://www.thewildrosepress.com/
A Sigh of Love coming soon from http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Twilight's Kiss given a top pick Rose by Romance Reader at Heart!

I'm so excited and thrilled to announce that TWILIGHT'S KISS has been given a top pick rose from Romance Reader at Heart, from reviewer Anita Hartsell! Thank you so much, Anita! ! This has really made my Sunday! I'm going to be on cloud nine for a very long time! :)

Here's a bit of her review, to read the review in its entirety click on the link below,

Romance Reader at Heart Reviews

A fascinating tale, TWILIGHT'S KISS is a wonderful romance that captivates as it spins its magical tale of love and destiny. Exciting vampire staking action and many surprises makes TWILIGHT'S KISS a book you can't put down. It also makes it easy to recommend this book to everyone that enjoys passion and excitement.

Anita Hartsell

Thank you again, Anita!

~Marly

Competition: What makes you think of summer?

Blurb:

When Sandy Perkins encounters an awkward customer, sparks fly. Making matters worse, the 'customer' later reveals himself to her as new boss, Matt Walker.

Can Matt heal the rift with Sandy to help thwart the evil stalker threatening her life? Will Sandy finally allow herself to fall in love again?

To win a PDF copy of It Happened One Summer, let me know what song makes you think of summer? Post at my blog to ensure your entry:

http://www.lynetterees.com/blog/

Good luck!

Which authors have influenced you?

To be a great writer you need to be a good reader. I'm often suspicious of the kind of folk who claim not to read but say they are good writers. I got to thinking, who has influenced my writing the most over the years?

Now, I can't just say it's any one particular author, more an amalgam of many.

The first author who made a huge impression on me as a child was Enid Blyton. I credit Ms. Blyton with being the person who made me the avid reader I am today. I enjoyed tales of The Famous Five and The Secret Seven, Six Bad Boys [and a book that probably wouldn't get published today, The Three Golliwogs.]

From Enid Blyton, I progressed to Irish author, Edna O'Brien. I was a tender seventeen years of age when I went to visit my Swedish penpal, Anna Enliden, in Jonkoping. The only English books they had in the house were by this author. I think Anna's mother must have been studying her texts years back in college. I was immediately hooked on Girl with Green Eyes and The Countrygirls. What I loved about both books is that there were written in the first person and were way ahead of their time. They were originally published in the 60s and probably the forerunner for Chick Lit as we know it today. O'Brien was scandalised in Ireland at the time and book burning parties took place by local priests. Even the author's own mother took a black marker pen to her books!

Fancy having such an impact on society!

Next, I progressed to the works of Jackie Collins. Okay her books are sexy and full of raunch, but so are Edna's to be honest with you. They're just not so in your face as Jackie's! Although Jackie's books have sex in them, I don't think there is that much and they're not that graphic, that's not why I read them anyhow. Believe it or not, it's her plot and characters that keep me on the edge of my seat turning page after page. It's hard to believe she's almost seventy years of age.

If there was one author I would love to be compared with, it is this lady. She is so ballsy. Sometimes I think she writes like a man. I love the way she brings in organised crime and villains to die for. She never writes at the computer, always in longhand.

I wouldn't be surprised if she carried on writing until her dying day!






Another influence of mine has been Rosamunde Pilcher. She of The Shell Seekers fame and Winter Solstice. I love the way she paints pictures with her words. I feel that I can see the surroundings she conjures up whether it's on the Cornish coast or the highlands of Scotland.

My most recent influence has been, Karen Rose. She writes mystery/suspense. I love the way she goes into the thoughts of her villains. I have tried this myself for my most recent novel and it's really brought the plot to life!

I think writing like this gave my novel a whole other dimension. I don't know as I write this, if the book will be accepted for publication, but I feel it's my best work yet.

Opening our minds to new styles of writing is good for us as authors. I watch The Richard and Judy bookclub and sometimes choose works by authors I have never heard of before and have been surprised to discover a new author whose work I might not have otherwise tried.

So, my question to you is: which authors have influenced you?

My 1st Climbing Rose!

My first Climbing Rose, Corn Maze, has been released!

Here's a quick blurb:

Twelve-year-old Hannah Barnes is just like all the other girls in her small Georgia town, except for one little detail. Hannah’s best friend—make that her only friend—is a ghost. When the annual Sweet Pea Festival arrives, Hannah discovers the secret to freeing Lilah from her earthly bondage. Hannah has a decision to make. Will she help Lilah move on, or will she hold on to her best friend?

Corn Maze is available here!