Alyson Widen
Features & Posts
1346 comments posted.
Re: Destiny's Surrender (12:34pm April 8, 2020):
I've been reading novels, magazines, and Suduko.
Re: Burn For Me (11:52pm April 2, 2020):
As an avid reader, I miss being able to flip through the
books at the bookstores to see how the middle is, before
buying.
Re: Tempest (11:48pm March 25, 2020):
Romance novels and cozy mysteries are books that help me
relax.
Re: Love Under Protection (11:41pm March 25, 2020):
The last time I was in New York, I stayed at the Grand
Hotel which is a great place for people watching and to see
Grand Central Station. It's normally a busy bustling
place.
Re: The Operator (12:02pm March 12, 2020):
We had a party line when I was growing up, so because it
was a shared line, of course, you could listen to other
conversations. When my dad became a Volunteer Fireman, we
got a private line and a special ring, so you knew it was
the fire department calling.
Re: You Had Me at Wolf (11:55pm February 29, 2020):
This reminds me of "You had me at Hello." Shifters are a
special breed and have leaders who won't take "No," for an
answer.
Re: An Inconvenient Duke (11:52pm February 29, 2020):
I enjoy historical romances and learn about how things
operated in another period of time. I like learning about
fashion and what was expected of family members and what
one could do to have a beau.
Re: Sweet On You (11:50pm February 29, 2020):
I've been to Grand Central Station and it's a good place to
people watch.
Re: Beach Haven (12:59pm February 14, 2020):
Cape Cod again would be my idea of a romantic vacation.
It's relaxing watching the sunset over the dunes.
Re: The Solid Grounds Coffee Company (12:57pm February 14, 2020):
Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind would be an
interesting dinner companion. He's outspoken and you never
know what tidbit is going to come out of his mouth.
Re: Lady Hotspur (12:56pm February 14, 2020):
My favorite dessert is anything with frosting on it. The
cake is a vehicle to hold the frosting, especially butter
cream frosting.
Re: Storm from the East (12:53pm February 14, 2020):
I would chose peaches, pears or apricots to add on top of
my war cake.
Re: Fair Weather Enemies (12:52pm February 14, 2020):
Historical Romance takes me back to a time when women had
more obligations and customs. The men had a lot of
freedom. And I like learning how they get along with their
family and friends.
Re: Highland Sword (12:12pm February 14, 2020):
I'm good at both and love when someone else cooks for me.
Re: The Winter Companion (12:10pm February 14, 2020):
My favorite cookie to make is a cut out sugar cookie. I
remember learning how to tint frosting and add doo-dads to
the rolled out cookies after baking with grandma.
Re: Once Upon a Sunset (12:05pm February 14, 2020):
My favorite romantic dinner is Pot Roast with homemade
bread to soak up every drop of the gravy.
Re: Forbidden Promises (12:03pm February 14, 2020):
My favorite romantic trope is Second Chance Lovers.
Re: Defending Zara (12:01pm February 14, 2020):
My favorite chocolate is a Heath Bar and next is Three
Musketeers. Really, any kind of chocolate speaks my
language.
Re: Forever Strong (11:56pm February 13, 2020):
Chocolate and a good book and wishing a Happy Valentine's
Day to mom and my adult age kids.
Re: Lucky Chance Cowboy (11:58pm January 31, 2020):
I remember we had to go to bed when young after Lassie
lifted her paw in the air at the end of the show. We kids
wished she didn't do that so we could stay up later.
Re: Wicked Cowboy Wolf (11:52pm January 31, 2020):
I like the cowboy part the most.
Re: Cold Nose, Warm Heart (12:58pm January 30, 2020):
Our first dog was a bluetick hound who liked to go
hunting although, he mainly chased rabbits instead of
helping retrieve birds from the hut. The next dog was a
border collie who herded us and the cat. The cat was a
regal Maine Coon who we outfitted with a small dress and
bonnet and wheeled him around the yard in a wheelbarrow.
Re: Whiteout (12:53pm January 30, 2020):
If I were to be stranded in Antarctica, I'd get out my Girl
Scout common sense and figure out how to create a shelter.
It would be difficult if food, water and shelter were not
easily accessible. I would probably have a thick book and
keep rereading it.
Re: Secret Mountain Hideout (12:49pm January 30, 2020):
The characters interest me most i books, plus the flaws and
what can be done to compromise or resolve a problem
altogether.
Re: Inherent Truth (12:47pm January 30, 2020):
I like the series of mysteries by Les Roberts. They take
place in the suburbs around Cleveland, Ohio, and have a
bumbling private eye named Milan Jacovich who solves the
mysteries. Three of the mysteries are Collision Bend,
Whiskey Island and The Irish Sports Pages.
Re: Malfunction (12:35pm January 30, 2020):
Star Wars, Harry Potter and Hugo are favorite Sci-Fi or
fantasy worlds that I know.
Re: Murder at the Arts and Crafts Festival (12:38pm January 18, 2020):
Arts & Crafts Festivals are like eye candy to me. I always
find new ideas and something to buy usually made of fabric.
Seeing the goods displayed proudly and watching the craft
people at work are experiences I cherish.
Re: A Cowboy Never Quits (1:06am January 4, 2020):
Cowboys are so manly and work well with animals and can
sense their needs. They may not be in touch with their
emotions, but will do anything to keep their livestock on
schedule and fed.
Re: Pathfinder (12:52pm January 4, 2020):
Sounds like the Wild, Wild West where arguments are settled
now by both sexes. Looks like a sassy read.
Re: The One for You (2:25pm December 31, 2019):
Losing weight is the same resolution I make. Yet the
only time that worked was with a deadline of my
daughter's summer wedding. I went on a strict high
protein and green veggie diet. With the support of
acupuncture and Chinese herbs for weight loss, lost 50
pounds in 6 months which have slowly crept back. Healthy
eating and moderate exercise are my goals for this year.
Re: Risk It All (1:57pm December 31, 2019):
I would go for a walk by water probably on the boardwalk
at the Shaker Nature Center. Water is soothing,
mesmerizing and refuels me not matter what kind of day it
is. Deer, chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, geese and other
birds are in their natural habitat there. One time I saw
a weasel. I've seen beavers build their dams, too.
Re: Puppy Christmas (11:32pm November 19, 2019):
I'd like the things and ideas in the song, "Santa Baby."
Re: Puppy Christmas (6:53am November 18, 2019):
Christmas holds the promise of connecting with traditions
and getting together with friends and family and
reminiscing about shared experiences.
Re: Longing for a Cowboy Christmas (2:27am November 16, 2019):
My favorite holiday tradition is singing and humming
Christmas Carols. White Christmas, the song and movie,
reminds me of singing around the piano and harmonizing
all the verses. One year, we didn't have any snow and
played marbles with the plastic sleds. That's the year,
I changed the words of White Christmas to I'm Dreaming of
a Green Christmas for a poem and an "A." Snow came after
we were back in school hoping for "snow days" to make
forts and throw snowballs and skate outside on the
flooded basketball court by the fire station. We warmed
our toes on the warmth from a fire in a big steel can and
went into the fire station for hot cocoa.
Re: Puppy Christmas (1:50am November 16, 2019):
I have room on my bookshelf for a few more books, so that
is what's on my holiday list. The warmth of the season
and caring that goes with it also make my day this time
of year with family and friends showing up with well
wishes and good cheer. Plus the food is especially
plentiful and full of tradition in the season of eating
from Labor Day through the New Year and into the Sweets
of Valentine's Day.
Re: Protect the Prince (2:24pm July 15, 2019):
Protect the Prince looks like a book with plenty of action
and a strong female lead who knows her way around and with
a sword.
Re: How to Write a Romance (2:18pm July 15, 2019):
I like the Romance genre where love wins all the time.
Well, it may take awhile to get there, but ultimately most
of the questions are answered and you're not left hanging,
wondering whether they'll end up HEA.
Re: Cold Aim (5:31pm July 5, 2019):
I do love a good police procedural since it shows how the
hard work is done and sometimes solves the crime.
Re: Bloodsucking Lawyer (3:18pm June 19, 2019):
I've heard that lawyers are sharks, but this one's out for
blood.
Re: The Conspiracy (2:28pm January 15, 2019):
I love the phrase his mouth curled. And I hope it was a
smile and not a sneer.
Re: Night Of The Flood (11:46pm January 2, 2019):
My tree for 2 years has been a crochet white tree with
mini lights and is about 6 inches tall. Tradition for
our family are stockings first with a tangerine in the
toe, a small box of cereal, a bit of chocolate, a candy
cane and a small gift. This would buy another hour of
sleep before we had to get up, have breakfast, then open
gifts and visit two sets of grandparents.
Re: Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish (8:43pm December 12, 2018):
Traditions make the holidays sparkle and you get to learn
other's traditions and see if you want to incorporate parts
of them in yours. Historical fiction is one of my favorite
genres. I like learning about the "old" traditions and the
way things were way back then.
Re: Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish (8:43pm December 12, 2018):
Traditions make the holidays sparkle and you get to learn
other's traditions and see if you want to incorporate parts
of them in yours. Historical fiction is one of my favorite
genres. I like learning about the "old" traditions and the
way things were way back then.
Re: Decoy Date (8:04pm December 11, 2018):
Thanks for sharing your writing routines. Fake
relationships is always an intriguing premise for a book;
there's a lot of wiggle room for things to happen and
expectations not to be met exactly.
Re: You Had Me at Cowboy (12:04pm December 4, 2018):
Cowboys and people who ride horses are fun to read about in
books. I knew a guy who liked to barrel race and that was
exciting.
Re: Earl to the Rescue (11:28pm November 28, 2018):
Earls, lords and royalty are very appealing in historical
fiction.
Re: My Forever Home (9:05pm November 27, 2018):
Thank you for showing us your writing spot surrounded by
things you love. I like that your book, My Forever Home,
has pet therapy as a mainstay in it. Pets tend to calm
people in hospitals, nursing homes and homes in general.
I know they lower BP and help with conversation and ease
loneliness.
Re: Distant Memory (9:13am November 16, 2018):
This book seems to have an interesting premise. It starts
off with drama and keeps the action high.
Re: The Silent Wife (11:27pm November 14, 2018):
This looks like a fun read with a letter opening up old
wounds and secrets better left undiscovered.
Re: Never Let Me Fall (8:27am November 9, 2018):
The story appears to be eerily mysterious and filled with
non-stop action.
Re: First Earl I See Tonight (12:21pm November 3, 2018):
The excerpt made me laugh as a Lord conveniently and slowly
took off her hat which loosened her hair. And then, (gasp)
kissed her. The story lets the imagination go and the lips
curl up and eyes crinkle.
Re: Mistletoe Kisses (12:16pm November 3, 2018):
All 5 suggestions are good. I especially like #4: take 15
minutes to quick clean your Hot Spot, then it's not so
difficult to have a surface that's clean.
Re: Wolf Rising (12:03pm November 3, 2018):
Swat and PTSD are both things I am interested in.
Re: Cowboy Christmas Jubilee (11:44pm October 30, 2018):
My oldest daughter is starting traditions for the holidays
in her new home in Texas. Her son will be a year and a
half in December and likes to run and take things apart.
Re: Cowboy Christmas Jubilee (11:44pm October 30, 2018):
My oldest daughter is starting traditions for the holidays
in her new home in Texas. Her son will be a year and a
half in December and likes to run and take things apart.
Re: Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses (11:42pm October 30, 2018):
I am one of those readers who loves to read with a hot
chocolate or in bed.
Re: A Brand New Ending (12:00pm October 27, 2018):
Second chance romance has a lot of redeeming qualities and
I root for the underdog.
Re: Just This Once (12:42pm October 17, 2018):
Looks like a sassy read.
Re: Couldn't Ask for More (11:49pm October 11, 2018):
The story looks like a sassy read. I like the fake part
and wonder how that will turn out.
Re: Couldn't Ask for More (11:48pm October 11, 2018):
I like the concept of fake engagement which may turn out to
be not so fake as time goes along. Looks like a sassy
read.
Re: Wild On My Mind (12:24pm October 2, 2018):
Second chance romance gets me every time. I root for the
underdog and somehow they get it together and shape up.
Looks like a fun read and I do love animals only not close
up unless they're pets.
Re: Never Expected You (11:59pm September 29, 2018):
Books with dogs or cats are heartwarming and hold a special
place on my bookshelf. Many of the first chapter books
that I read had animals in them like the classic Lad, A Dog
by Albert Payson Terhune.
Re: Don't Touch My Petunia (11:56pm September 29, 2018):
Second chance romances have me rooting for the underdog and
I like seeing how the romance turns out. My mom had
Japanese Emperor Tulips which were showy red ones with huge
blossoms and they grew easily and stayed closer to the
ground. We passed them on the way to the back door.
Re: What Happens in Vegas (11:50pm September 29, 2018):
Oh yes. San Francisco is fine with those warm breezes off
the ocean, the beaches, people watching and those cable
cars that you can hang onto as they climb hills and then
ring a bell to get off. It makes a colorful setting for
books.
Re: More Than a Phoenix (1:23am September 29, 2018):
Romance novels are one of my favorite genres along with
cozy mysteries which has romance, of course. I like to
see what entanglements the couple gets into and then how
long it takes to get straightened out. Reading romances
is better than watching RV because you get to fill in the
blanks and read between the covers and maybe know what
lines are going to come out of the main characters mouths
before uttered.
Re: Mistletoe in Texas (1:19am September 29, 2018):
I new a barrel racer which is riding around barrel real
fast on a pony, so cowboy stories are endearing to me.
Re: A Billionaire Wolf for Christmas (1:17am September 29, 2018):
This is a different kind of book for me although I do love
State Parks and have spent many days camping with my family
while young.
Re: Rocky Mountain Cowboy Christmas (6:40am September 27, 2018):
I like how the excerpt starts with a variation of "It
can't possibly get worse." And then the punchline at the
end of the excerpt about a guy looking lost in the
feminine hygiene aisle (which guys tend to skip) and
asking for her help; they haven't a clue unless they
bring an empty package to match up what's on the shelf.
Looks like a funny story with plenty of groans.
Re: Unleashed (6:33am September 27, 2018):
The Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia are breath-taking
and so expansive. I can see why you included them in
your setting for the story Unleashed. We had relatives
who lived in a sea captain's stone home which was hidden
in the trees and the driveway to reach the door was a 10
minute drive uphill.
Re: Mistletoe in Texas (6:28am September 27, 2018):
Flawed characters make stories more real because nobody's
perfect, there's always something a little off. It gives
the characters a chance to redeem themselves. Plus in
your story the second chance romance has a way of working
out, because the couple keep running into each other and
not on purpose, kindof like natural selection.
Re: How the Earl Entices (11:56pm September 16, 2018):
I didn't know about no underwear, but knew of private
theater boxes where anything goes back in the Regency
Period. Thanks for the updates to history.
Re: The Lacemaker (9:28pm January 13, 2018):
I wear a long skirt, an apron and mob cap while serving tea
at a Victorian Tea that benefits the Historical Museum.
Re: Ready for Wild (9:15pm October 31, 2017):
Happy day after All Hallow's Eve which a neighbor down the
street used to celebrate and scare us, plus the house was
set back far in the woods. Your snippet of the novel makes
it sound lively and just what we need to distract ourselves
from scary times like Halloween.
Re: Highland Flame (10:15pm September 26, 2017):
Love the accents, the settings, the atmosphere in Scottish
books. Plus historical fiction is one of my favorite
genres.
Re: The Amish Christmas Candle (10:13pm September 26, 2017):
Chocolate Pudding Cake should do the trick.
Re: Chime and Punishment (3:58pm August 8, 2017):
Stories which have to do with clocks make me think of time
and how I always want more time. This story sounds sweet
what with the whole town trying to raise money for a good
cause.
Re: On Her Majesty's Frightfully Secret Service (3:55pm August 8, 2017):
Spies and a British accent is my kind of cozy mystery.
Re: The Lost Vampire (3:52pm August 8, 2017):
As a writer, I find anytime there's a conflict, the action
picks up whether it's inside the character's head or with
his circle of friends, family and acquaintances. It is
what makes the story move along.
Re: The Sweetest Burn (11:12pm July 30, 2017):
Thanks for sharing your writing process. I love hearing
how writers do their craft.
Re: Wind River Rancher (1:59pm December 30, 2016):
I enjoy reading about people down on their luck and
suffering and how they pull themselves out of the downward
spiral. PTSD is not so uncommon, but the isolation and
feelings of hopelessness, keep them from getting the help
they need and can use.
Re: Sleigh Bells Ring (1:55pm December 24, 2016):
The sweetness and kindness come out in these Christmas
tales that warm the heart.
Re: Restoring Christmas (5:20pm November 22, 2016):
I had to look up shiplap to figure out that it's a rough-
sawn pine re-purposed for remodeling like in HGTV fixer-
uppers. Owning older homes is always opening a Pandora's
Box, you never know what you'll find behind the walls and
under the floorboards. We found hardwood under linoleum
in 2 homes and hired a quality refinisher who made those
oak floors as smooth as butter with a lot of sanding and
coats of polyurethane. The floors ended up being good
for sliding in socks for my kids. The knob and tube
wiring was replaced in one home and we pretty much had it
all rewired as long as the kitchen walls were apart.
Good luck on your remodel and it's refreshing to learn
about others up for the challenge of a home with age
attached.
Re: Hold Your Breath (4:54pm November 22, 2016):
Thanks for choosing me for this book about the Search &
Rescue Brotherhood.
Re: Always With You (11:48am October 4, 2016):
Oh, in relationships and characters, I love the back and
forth of shall I, must I, maybe not (this time) with all
that baggage attached to the bad boy, unless there are
redeeming qualities.
Re: Hold Your Breath (11:44am October 4, 2016):
I would ask where the author gets ideas from and which
comes first - storyline, setting or characters and their
coinciding dilemmas?
Re: Broken Ground (2:49pm May 10, 2016):
Until I joined a Writers Group for 5 years, I didn't know
about POV and voice. As a voracious reader, I've learned
more about the structure of writing and tone and have
delved into poetry. Your book is in touch with what is
gong on now with immigration and the fear of deportation.
Re: Flash of Fire (2:45pm May 10, 2016):
My true love is reading along with poetry. I belong to 2
poetry workshops and we make poems more readable along with
losing a few words and creating titles.
Re: The Seduction of Kinley Foster (2:29pm May 10, 2016):
This book sounds fun and saucy. I remember going to a
Nursing Conference and our table was falling off chairs
laughing so hard. One of the ladies was explaining how she
had parties with special toys and other items for enhanced
pleasure.
Re: Bride of a Distant Isle (5:47pm March 30, 2016):
Gothic is dark and has people dressed in somber colors and
seem to travel with a cloud of doom following them.
Re: 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake (8:26pm July 8, 2015):
I hope to find gift cards and money. By downsizing, I'm
going through papers and things and sorting gradually
sorting it all out.
Re: The Curiosity Keeper (8:17pm July 8, 2015):
I started with Georgette Heyer and then progressed to more.
Historical fiction takes you on a trip to the past along
with the customs and strictness of being proper and being a
lady. I love to see how the women are tempted by the men
who are usually rascals or rakes.
Re: Merger of the Heart (8:13pm July 8, 2015):
Just having peace and quiet is enough. Plus planning a
date takes some work, like putting it on the schedule and
when the kids were young - having a sitter or relative
watch and play with the kids. It's nice to have a grown-up
night every now and then.
Re: Butter Off Dead (8:09pm July 8, 2015):
I collect bells like my grandma on my Dad's side of the
family. One from the bicentennial year is cherished along
with a cowbell from Switzerland which has the edelweiss
flower painted on.
Re: A Sword for His Lady (8:05pm July 8, 2015):
Isabel of course should win. However, she can't make it
too easy or it's no fun. I like a bit of sass in my female
heroes.
Re: Countess by Coincidence (8:03pm July 8, 2015):
I enjoy books about princesses, heiresses, brides, everyday
people, nurses, mysteries especially the cozy ones with
recipes.
Re: Justified (5:26pm June 22, 2015):
I can picture you digging into a half watermelon with
your spoon. It sounds like a group eating contest. What
did you do with the seeds? I remember once trying to
pour what we though was ketchup on a hot dog but it
turned out to be fruit punch in a bottle. And feeding
the ducks stale bread torn into little pieces.
Re: At the Spy's Pleasure (3:01pm May 30, 2015):
I love second chances and enjoy reading about the redeeming
qualities to make up for what the characters blew the first
go around. Third chances can be interesting, but it's hard
to tell if the person is really going to head in the right
direction.
Re: The Ultimate Betrayal (2:59pm May 30, 2015):
This series seems like a TV show with all the relationships
going up and down plus the betrayals, lies and the making
ups.
Re: Across the Line (4:51pm August 16, 2014):
Reminds me of the snappy dialogue in Draft Day. I like a good
sport or having a sporting chance at a book.
Re: Poison (4:18pm August 16, 2014):
I like when stories have something concrete to anchor them
like your stars and such. Looks like a unique read.
Re: One Night of Sin (4:25pm August 10, 2014):
I don't think the characters always make sense in a romance.
It's the quirkiness and off-beat that keeps my interest the
most.
Re: The Highlander's Bride Trouble (4:16pm August 10, 2014):
I love the recumbent bike at the gym and go four miles 3 to 4
times a week. It's easier on the knees and back to go
recumbent biking. Congratulations on sticking to an exercise
routine. For your book, you had me at Highlander with all
those plaid clan kilts.
Re: Strand of Deception (4:13pm August 10, 2014):
What if you had to write your way out of a dilemma? What if
you couldn't pick up your pen from the paper and had to
write continuously for 5 minutes like I did in a creative
writing class. It makes you want each word to count,
because you can't "correct" as you go, but your fingers itch
to make the changes.
Re: The Water Fight Professional (4:11pm August 10, 2014):
Great cover and I've been in many water balloon tosses. When
you prepare a container of filled water balloons, keep them in
the shade or they may explode on their own.
Re: The Incredible Charlotte Sycamore (4:09pm August 10, 2014):
Looks like a fun romp through the British countryside with
characters I want to know and maybe trust. Secret passages
and hiding places make me want to turn the page faster to keep
up with the action.
Re: One Bite Per Night (4:07pm August 10, 2014):
I haven't seen any of these vampire movies, but vampires and
zombies are getting more popular.
Re: Two Week Seduction (4:04pm August 10, 2014):
Women like quizes, but the opposite sex can't stand them as a
rule. You made me laugh with the tipping cows choice.
Re: The Counterfeit Lady (4:01pm August 10, 2014):
I like reading about bookstores and delving into them to find
finds. Back then, there weren't many occupations open to
women, so a bookstore owner as a woman was rare.
Re: Secrets and Sins: Chayot (3:59pm August 10, 2014):
Scenes on the beach or by windswept cliffs like in Wuthering
Heights.
Re: Flame (3:49pm August 10, 2014):
Looks like a riveting book. I like reading when characters
have flaws and ways they overcome or make amends with others
they have offended intentionally or not.
Re: Nine Years Gone (6:05pm July 31, 2014):
Deadlines work for me to get something down on paper. Kids,
of which I have my 5, don't stay little for long and as they
age, the questions they ask get harder. Having a change of
clothes for the kids and wearing washable clothes yourself
helps keep you prepared. However, once my toddler girl fell
into a neighbor's toilet because the seat was up. I didn't
have a change of socks.
Re: Ready to Wed (5:58pm July 31, 2014):
Usually there's too much input on a name for the cat from
all the prime or immediate relations. Jerold or Jerry had a
few including Percival, but I have no idea where that came
from. The dog thought any word that began with a "B" meant
we were talking about him, go he'd give us this quizzical
look since his name was Barney or Barnels.
Re: Betrayed (5:53pm July 31, 2014):
Sounds like there are sparks flying with the characters love
interests plus the heroine's conscious makes her second guess
her actions.
Re: Two Week Seduction (5:51pm July 31, 2014):
I'm still smiling reading about your escapades with the
Fitbit and it's visit with water in the toilet. Did you
know a lot of people drop their cell phones in the toilet?
My son took a shower with his because it was water
resistant. They gave him another when he brought the box in
that said water resistant and because he was still a teen.
Re: Catnapped! (5:47pm July 31, 2014):
Cats intrigue me, but I haven't yet come across a six toed
one. Cozies are a genre that makes me smile and are ones I
reach for when the weather turns colder because they warm me.
Re: Breathing Room (5:40pm July 31, 2014):
Girl, you had me at the isolated island. Looks like a
riveting read.
Re: So I Married a Werewolf (5:39pm July 31, 2014):
I enjoy reading about bloggers and yours is the first that's
also a dog trainer. Spice and sass keep me turning the pages
to get to the good parts.
Re: Night Child (5:36pm July 31, 2014):
I'm more of an avid reader, but do like to read series books.
Although they may not be in any real order.
Re: The Tenth Chamber (5:35pm July 31, 2014):
So true, the grit and grunge work involved with writing has a
lot of prep time to get you lined up and ready for the words
to flow.
Re: Her Secret, His Surprise (5:30pm July 31, 2014):
Sometimes the closest of friends can feel that you need a
call without you saying anything. It's like telepathy or
intuition is at work. A BFF ears are golden, because you
can sound things out and they may look at you funny, but
they give a good listen to whatever's on your mind. At
first I read Entangled Bliss as Entangled Mess and had to go
back and check. Looks like a lively read.
Re: Crimson Heart (1:50pm June 29, 2014):
I like how you fold what's happening nowadays into the
characters of your stories. You had me at highlander and I am
wanting to know what plaids are associated with specific
clans.
Re: Once Upon A Kiss (1:39pm June 29, 2014):
You can learn a lot about the inner workings of a family by
sitting at a table and seeing who is allowed to say what and
which topics are out of bounds.
Re: Huckleberry Summer (1:38pm June 29, 2014):
You made me smile while reminding me of the joys and
exasperating times of raising five kids including a set of
twins.
Re: Annie's Stories (1:35pm June 29, 2014):
One of my friends is president of the National Association
of Black Storytellers and she always has a tale that goes
along with her personality dramatic and to the point. I
like hearing stories both from the initial storyteller and
secondhand. You never know what additional "facts" creep in
and reinforce the gist of the story.
Re: The Blonde (1:31pm June 29, 2014):
When I was in a writers group, they said not to hurry through
a sex scene - that is was meant to be savored and enjoyed.
Re: Eyes Closed Tight (7:05pm March 14, 2014):
You're ride along sounds like it raised your sights. Boy
that must have been some night. Thrillers, police
procedurals and the workings of both the good guys and bad
make lively reads.
Re: Mustang Sassy (6:57pm March 14, 2014):
I broke up with my brother's friend, which had him peeling
out of the driveway leaving tire tracks on the road. Then,
of course, he kept visiting my oldest brother, so it sure was
awkward for quite awhile.
Re: How Sweet The Sound (6:54pm March 14, 2014):
Spring is hiding, but I saw a few bright flowers that were
mysteriously caught on a log in a brook at the Nature Center
today. At first, I thought they were crocus, but then one
looked like a white aster. I can't wait for the bluets to
come up in my front lawn - hate to cut the grass and their
heads off. My favorite hopeful character is Anne Frank and
her patch of sky and the birds she watched fly freely.
Re: Lip Reading (6:45pm March 14, 2014):
My first Writer's Group had me worried about how my words
would be perceived. In the class, I learned "show don't
tell." Thanks for your insights about writing the story and
not giving everything away right away.
Re: A Perfect Distraction (5:25pm March 14, 2014):
I think creative minds operate best with a bit of clutter.
Yet they know where the important pieces of information and
stuff is. My most productive time is when I have a lot going
on and time is getting close.
Re: The Mapmaker's Daughter (5:23pm March 14, 2014):
I don't think women deny their history, because they find
strength in those who have gone before and made a
difference.
Stepping onto the path of those who bravely walked on new
trails gives me goosebumps. I like reading about the
history of how traditions started in many cultures and what
we hold onto today.
Re: Donna of the Dead (5:07pm March 14, 2014):
I read many genres of books including YA. Finding oneself is
the basis of many YA books along with the ways they sabotage
themselves and find how to get out of trouble. The
characters are seeking to learn more about how to get along
and when to rebel.
Re: Sapphires Are an Earl's Best Friend (5:04pm March 14, 2014):
Secondary characters have a way of making the primary ones
have something to anchor them to earth. They have a the
wherewithal to be the ones to bounce the ideas off of and see
what and where that lands you.
Re: Anointed (5:02pm March 14, 2014):
My superpower would be going through solid objects to be near
the people who need help the most. I'm a good listener and
like overhearing conversations. It makes my writing spicier.
Re: What The Groom Wants (5:00pm March 14, 2014):
I like number 5 and love taking quizzes especially ones where
you can check the answers.
Re: Mustang Sassy (4:59pm March 14, 2014):
I like an old John Denver CD. Country Roads...Take Me Home.
Re: Safe in the Tycoon's Arms (4:57pm March 14, 2014):
The latest new thing I tried in February was a class in Qi
Gong and Tai Chi on Wednesdays which I keep going to. I've
been on a health journey since November and have lost 38
pounds since starting a diet in December.
Re: The Rebel Pirate (4:52pm March 14, 2014):
Georgette Heyer was the first romance author that I couldn't
get enough of.
Re: The Prosecutor (4:51pm March 14, 2014):
Beam me up. Your prosecutor has the gift of a good tongue
and a body to match. Thanks for creating a smart guy who
uses his brain for good.
Re: Searching for Beautiful (4:49pm March 14, 2014):
I would tell my teen self to quit stressing over looks,
because we grow into ourselves and things tend to settle down
as we age. Acne isn't something that usually lasts forever.
Re: Degree of Risk (4:43pm March 14, 2014):
I enjoy reading about Seals and the risks they take both in
war and relationships.
Re: The Bride Insists (4:42pm March 14, 2014):
Rogues and black sheep abound in the stories I read in
Historical Romances and Military Romances. It never seems to
be too late for the "black sheep" there's always someone who
can tame them and wrestle with their minds.
Re: Dating, Dining, and Desperation (4:38pm March 14, 2014):
I grew up in what you can call a small town of 13,000 where
they celebrate on the square for a Strawberry Festival and I
serve strawberry shortcakes, and there's a Victorian Tea to
help the Bedford Historical Museum on the Square coming up
in May. I'll be dressed as a maid with a mop cap and
serving tea to many tables. I love reading about small
towns and the characters that reside in them.
Re: Shadowed By Grace (4:35pm March 14, 2014):
I think everybody has a favorite spot to read and mine is in
bed, unwinding from the day. I like a book that has a draw
that keeps pulling me in to turn the pages fast to find out
what's really going on. I also like listening to the chats
on www.booktrib.com and they have good contests where I win
one just about every week.
Re: Risk Taker (6:39pm February 25, 2014):
It seems like the meeting was no accident, maybe more like
fate. A military theme with a pilot in particular has a lot
of risk, power and drama going for it. Looks like a
thoroughly intense read.
Re: Baden-Powell's Beads: Aksum (6:37pm February 25, 2014):
It looks like a lot of experience went into compiling this
book in a series. I love reading mysteries where there are
many sneaky things thrown in to get you off track. I like to
work the many options and see what's right when it comes down
to the wire.
Re: Breakaway Hearts (6:34pm February 25, 2014):
Well, I was looking forward to the Ice Dancing and Ice
Skating and they were amazing to watch on TV. The Half Pike
Snowboarding was thrilling and my breath caught as a few took
spills and tried again. To read about athletes at their peak
performance trying to reach a goal is thrilling.
Re: A Perfect Distraction (6:27pm February 25, 2014):
My favorite flower is freesia, which fragrances an entire
room with the blooms. It's more of a springtime flower from
a bulb and comes in white, yellow or purple delicate
flowers. I don't tend to celebrate Valentine's Day, except
when off a diet the chocolate M&M's around any holiday are
scrumptious and fresh with fun colors.
Re: Miss Molly Robbins Designs A Seduction (6:07pm February 25, 2014):
Looks seductive and entrancing and brings Molly up in the
world.
Re: What The Groom Wants (6:04pm February 25, 2014):
On the desk or table.
Re: The MacGregor's Lady (6:02pm February 25, 2014):
You got me at Scottish. The kilts, plaids, clans and brogue
all make me want to turn the pages.
Re: A Minute on the Lips (6:00pm February 25, 2014):
Sean Connery in the early James Bond series makes me swoon.
Re: Lord of Swords (5:54pm February 25, 2014):
HEA (Happily Ever After) books have a broad appeal to romance
readers just starting out. It gets them ready to broaden
their views and try other genres if only to compare, contrast
and admire the HEA's. I support the library with it's
continuous Friend's book sale.
Re: High-Heeled Wonder (5:50pm February 25, 2014):
Your checklist sounds like fun. I want to sleuth with your
vice detective and find the fashion details which you
sprinkle through the story.
Re: Once In A Lifetime (5:43pm February 25, 2014):
Most guys hate when their lady cries, but Ben has some
sensitivity, which I like but find lacking in most
relationships.
Re: Lord of the Sea (5:42pm February 25, 2014):
I like to find my heroes have qualities that are less than
perfect. The flaws bring them down to earth and off the
pedestals.
Re: The Tycoon's Socialite Bride (5:40pm February 25, 2014):
Realistic romance suits me fine.
Re: The Cowboy's Mail Order Bride (5:39pm February 25, 2014):
A story that hinges on a letter gone amiss is one I want to
read. I love tales taming cowboys and all that entails. Is
being a mail order bride the ultimate blind date?
Re: Oath of the Brotherhood (5:36pm February 25, 2014):
Thanks for imagining a new "What if?" With Ireland as a
backdrop, I bet you'll be turning over new rocks, graves and
changing history - if that's possible. It reminds me of a
kids asking, "How come?"
Re: Country Heaven (5:33pm February 25, 2014):
Singers can twang upon your heartstrings and make you misty-
eyed. Music reaches deep inside and makes the world seem
different in a good way. Your story looks like it has oomph.
Re: Mint Juleps and Justice (5:30pm February 25, 2014):
Books that revolve around food make my mouth water and I get
out more cookbooks. It's a different part of your life when
a loved one is gone. I hope you had time for a sweet
goodbye.
Re: Full Measures (5:28pm February 25, 2014):
Military families learn to wait a lot and read between the
lines of what's said and not said in messages sent home. It
must be agony when someone is missing or dies and then the
hopes reside on a different level. It's an added layer to
stories and I like reading about the discipline and
regimentation for both families and their kids.
Re: Bound to be Dirty (5:24pm February 25, 2014):
Well, BDSM seems to be hot now what with Fifty Shades of Grey
and other spinoffs. A little goes a long ways for me to
read.
Re: Between the Sheets (5:22pm February 25, 2014):
Great titles and reminds me of an anthology with a bed that
was the focus for 3 different centuries. It appears you had
many discussions over getting the details right in your story
and to make seamless transitions between the lines.
Re: The Trouble With Honor (5:19pm February 25, 2014):
Julia, you matched a seductress to a name that she is going
to have a hard time living up to. I'll bet she gets her man
along with a few more wins at the card games.
Re: The Temptation of Laura (5:17pm February 25, 2014):
I've been to Bath and it still draws people to visit and
check out the countryside and its people. I do enjoy a good
read with history as a focus along with characters who are
fully developed residing in the old times and ways.
Re: Hot Rock (5:14pm February 25, 2014):
Bad boy, glam and being tough on the outside, but having a
touch of softness and tenderness at times is my idea of a
hero.
Re: Town In A Strawberry Swirl (4:45pm February 16, 2014):
I enjoy learning about small towns and their quirks and
inhabitants. History seems to run deeper there plus there's
always something hidden in the past to uncover.
Re: Once Upon a Masquerade (4:42pm February 16, 2014):
I like heroes of all types even the clueless ones, which
didn't make it on your list.
Re: Deep in My Heart (4:39pm February 16, 2014):
Where are those small forest creatures when you have a big
cleaning job to do. Please send them over when they're
through with you and your place.
Re: What The Groom Wants (4:37pm February 16, 2014):
Please have Gregory get his comeuppance and work on redeeming
himself. The grovelling has got to be out of character, yet
authentic. No fake stuff here.
Re: Much Ado About Jack (4:35pm February 16, 2014):
Shakespeare would fit in and love the relationships, mores
and morals which befitted the Regency period.
Re: The Bitches of Brooklyn (3:12pm November 22, 2013):
I have a skirt that is the size I'd like to be and haven't
gotten down into that region yet. It's canvas but is a dark
turquoise color with buttons down the front. I'm hoping to
get into it this coming year and have put a few things in
place to accomplish this aim including eating healthy more
often, portion control, food diary and walking more while
wearing a pedometer.
Re: Switch Hitter (3:09pm November 22, 2013):
You brought a smile to my face with comparing men to breakfast
food. What a way to start a day!
Re: Lies that Bind (3:08pm November 22, 2013):
My dreams would include fixing up my house. I used to laugh
about a DIY saying that if you go in any room in a house,
there's always something needing to be done or fixed.
Re: Norse Jewel (3:06pm November 22, 2013):
My first turkey kindof carved itself because it was so well
done. Er...I mean overdone. My mom's tradition was
dropping the turkey on the floor while trying to get it out
of the pan. The pets were happy about that and I can recall
the cat hopping in the roaster and then lifting his paws one
at a time to lick and then putting them back down and having
to start licking again. When they invented turkey lifters -
large forks or small pitchforks for turkeys, we got mom a
pair and knew the screams and special words weren't going to
come out of her mouth anymore, at least not for the turkey
drop.
Re: Once A Seal (8:53pm November 15, 2013):
When I was married, on my honeymoon, my husband said, "No," to
the things I wanted to get like pottery (probably impractical
to carry much pottery on an airplane.) Because I was late to
the airport, the luggage arrived a day late, so I never heard
the end of it.
Re: Dangerous Connections (8:51pm November 15, 2013):
Looks like a riveting read, I can't wait to turn the pages and
see where it takes me.
Re: Texas Tango (8:50pm November 15, 2013):
Mavericks and cowboys, yep sign me up for a rodeo or a horse
ride.
Re: Shenandoah Crossings (8:49pm November 15, 2013):
I like Historical Fiction, so would probably pick the
Victorian or Regency time. My siblings tried to run away when
small and mom caught up with them as they were going to cross
the tracks with the railroad lights flashing and a train was
'acoming.
Re: Have You Any Rogues? (8:47pm November 15, 2013):
Women by intuition know more often than men the signs of an
affair. I don't have any rogues yet, but you have the start
of a grown-up nursery rhyme.
Re: Bulletproof (8:42pm November 14, 2013):
I like the sense of being on the edge of danger that the
military entails plus finding in some their softness and
vulnerability especially when it comes to the fairer sex.
Re: The Namesake (8:40pm November 14, 2013):
As a devourer of books, I think this is one which will
resonate with the reader long after the book is read. As a
parent and a writer of poems, I've also found it's easier to
help other people with their problems including forgiveness
than it is to do the hard work on yourself.
Re: Course of Action (7:14pm November 11, 2013):
I listened to the interview Sara Reyes did with Lindsay
McKenna posted on Nov 4,2013 on the Fresh Fiction Blog.
Stories about Seals hold a special intrigue and I can't keep
my hands off of them.
Re: Sent from Heaven (7:03pm November 11, 2013):
Your series is one I want to read. Congratulations on keeping
at your writing and finding a spot for those thoughts that
keep circulating and percolating through the mind.
Re: Bikers and Pearls (6:56pm November 11, 2013):
Readers and writers are inquisitive by nature. And so stories
naturally evolve over shared experiences and one sees life
enriched with another perspective. Storytellers tend to make
good listeners.
Re: The Secret Life of Miss Anna Marsh (6:51pm November 11, 2013):
This looks like a rollicking good time with a lady spy and the
properness expected of most during the Regency era.
Re: A Cowboy for Christmas (1:09pm November 9, 2013):
Singing carols around the piano and getting a tangerine in the
bottom of the stocking are traditions for my family.
Re: Scion of the Sun (1:07pm November 9, 2013):
Looks like YA rubbed off on you in a good way. It's fun to
revisit the time and angst of youth and letting the
imagination run wild with new worlds and situations.
Re: What the Bride Wore (1:06pm November 9, 2013):
Counting down or up to the time when things have to happen
is a way of managing time and creating some order to your
life. I find that setting the clock 10 minutes early helps
a bit plus trying to get to a spot 10 minutes early which
means I'll be there right on time or 5 minutes late.
There's an arc to aging with forgetting both a blessing and
a curse. What matters the most is what you'll pay more
attention to. Chunking the tasks down to smaller parts
gives you a sense of order and accomplishment when you've
done part of it. Your Regency story is appealing and I love
learning about the social skills, place in society and the
decor of the time.
Re: Promise Me Texas (12:57pm November 9, 2013):
What an exciting pivotal moment to start with a train wreck
and end up with a new man. Running away from the life you
were destined for and gathering the pieces leaves the reader
with a lot of tension that's only bound to increase as the
chase is on and the lies pile up. Looks like a thrilling
read with twists you don't see coming.
Re: In for a Penny (12:21pm November 9, 2013):
Sounds like a spunky bunch of gals who know a thing or two
about how to fix things in their circle. Looks like they've
got a lot of work to do in figuring out how to carve out a
place where folding money is a shiny object that is dying to
make it back into the granny pockets or purse.
Re: Upon a Winter's Night (12:17pm November 9, 2013):
My favorite part of the holidays is getting together with
family and friends, the food (of course), singing carols
around the piano and smelling bayberry candles and the woodsy
smell of fresh pine in wreaths and evergreen trees.
Re: A Cadence Creek Christmas (12:14pm November 9, 2013):
The holidays and wedding make a perfect backdrop for a story.
Now that cold weather is hovering, I want to curl up with a
good book, like this one, and warm up for the season.
Re: How To Handle A Highlander (12:13pm November 9, 2013):
As soon as I see something Scottish or Irish in the title, I
get excited and hope the plaids of the clans interweave
through the story.
Re: Daughter Of The God-King (12:10pm November 9, 2013):
I always learn more from historical fiction and mysteries.
Basing locations on facts of time, place and world events
offers the reader a chance to experience life as if one was
going back in time. It's a nice escape that I look forward
to with my hands ready to turn the pages and feel the
characters come to life.
Re: Secret Sister (12:07pm November 9, 2013):
Reading a story is not a static thing, but can be a moving
experience with imagining the "what if's?" and then plugging
in your own conclusions. Many stories are not all neatly
wrapped in the end, but whet your appetite for more of the
same and offer a glimpse into a different way of life.
Re: Born Wild (12:22pm November 1, 2013):
The trust one catches me every time. Looks like the rules
that are common sense rule, yet taking a few chances makes
life a lot more interesting.
Re: Once a Rake (8:25pm October 31, 2013):
I like learning about how people ate, moved about and lived in
the Regency period. The clothes and the rules that people
followed back then seemed very strict.
Re: The Christmas Cookie Collection (8:19pm October 31, 2013):
I've made a version of these but I'll try adding cocoa the
next time. Thanks for the recipe and I can't wait to put my
fingers in the centers of the cookies and hold your book in my
hands.
Re: Hunter's Moon (8:17pm October 31, 2013):
Zombies and wizards sound good to me.
Re: The Wishing Thread (8:15pm October 31, 2013):
Doll clothes knit by my grandma Mary kept my dolls dressed.
She also taught me how to knit and I made my size booties for
a first project. My sister and I have a photo with dotted
Swiss dresses and black velvet sash that my mom made one
holiday.
Re: The Circle Of Thirteen (8:11pm October 31, 2013):
Flashbacks help stories make sense in that they are grounding
moments. To know each of the 13 women and how they
contributed to history, the backstories tell the tale. I like
reading stories that have history woven throughout.
Re: Norse Jewel (8:06pm October 31, 2013):
A twist is tantalizing and makes me work harder to figure out
where the plot is heading. I like surprises - the good kind.
Re: Never Underestimate a Caffarelli (8:05pm October 31, 2013):
Being in a wheelchair would slow me down, but I'd figure out
ways to get around the barriers and know my friends would
support me in this and other endeavors.
Re: A Perfect Distraction (8:00pm October 31, 2013):
You had me at hockey. My sons both played when young and it
was always a thrill to root for them and the goals and hat-
tricks. It's a sport where you have to be in great shape
and have "legs" and be sneaky and quick turns on a dime. I
want to read a Perfect Distraction this winter - a perfect
cold weather book.
Re: Because Of Audrey (7:56pm October 31, 2013):
Dressing up is always fun. I went to a Bonnie and Clyde party
in Washington DC and everybody dressed for it. Renting a
flapper dress and twirling my beads, I felt very ladylike and
like dancing plus we drank our drinks from teacups.
Re: The Wicked Wallflower (7:54pm October 31, 2013):
Of course, I had crushes which ended up being just dreamy. I
saw the Perks of Being A Wallflower movie and it showed the
shy character getting some guts and breaking out of the mold.
Re: A Midsummer Bride (7:51pm October 31, 2013):
Something out of the ordinary seems like better than the same
old stuff. Your book looks like it's fun to fall into and I
may have to review my chemistry notes to keep up with all the
experiments.
Re: Milkshakes, Mermainds, and Murder (7:32pm October 31, 2013):
I had celebrity sitings in the 70's when Sea World was first
opened in Orlando, Florida, and Florence Henderson, Charles
Nelson Reilly and Monty Hall stayed at our hotel. I got their
autographs on a napkin somewhere.
Re: The Holiday Serenade (7:30pm October 31, 2013):
Good premise and the closet would be full of giggles, because
I've got to hand it to you - singing is one of those things
that melt my heart.
Re: Cinderella Screwed Me Over (7:28pm October 31, 2013):
This book looks like a fun read and I'd pick it up to see
what's between the covers.
Re: The Sweetest Hallelujah (7:24pm October 31, 2013):
I think it's fun that you have specific seasons when you write
one way, but I can't separate the seasons from my writing.
Congratulations on getting your Sweetest Hallelujah out of the
boxes and onto shelves and in the hands of readers.
Re: Murder At Hatfield House (7:19pm October 31, 2013):
Victorian times fascinate me. I enjoy learning from all sorts
of historical novels and the romance is a plus between all the
morals and expectations of the times.
Re: Christmas Quilt (7:17pm October 31, 2013):
This past spring, I went to a quilt show where each of the
various sized quilts had a story to tell. Reading about the
Amish and learning more about their traditions with cooking,
religion and sewing is enticing. I can't wait to feel what's
threaded through the fabric of your story.
Re: The Butterfly Sister (7:14pm October 31, 2013):
I read more mysteries in the fall and winter. The book cover
is intriguing and a suitcase holds a lot more than luggage.
Re: A Lady's Secret Weapon (7:11pm October 31, 2013):
Danger, delight and humor combine to make the best books. I
do love historical romances and learn a lot about the period
from them.
Re: Behind the Shattered Glass (7:03pm October 31, 2013):
I'd rather be the master or mistress and not a servant. The
art of running a household involved many people, all
necessary.
Re: Bare Knuckle (7:01pm October 31, 2013):
Looks like a good series written by a pair who know their
magnetic guys and can't help but have escapades with women.
Re: Run The Risk (6:53pm October 31, 2013):
You had me at hunk. The ripped abs on your cover belong to a
guy sure of himself, but attracts trouble with a capital "T".
Re: The Sum Of All Kisses (6:49pm October 31, 2013):
Julia Quinn's main character slowly warms up to kisses and
then the relationship gets going. Sounds like a sizzling
drama anchored in romance.
Re: Plague Ship (6:45pm October 31, 2013):
The Plague gives me the creeps. The author's medical
background only adds to the accuracy and drama as he knows
what's truthful and where the truth has been stretched to the
limits. I bet this book is a page-turner extaordinaire.
Re: Death Of A Schoolgirl (6:42pm October 31, 2013):
The book reminds me of Masterpiece Theater on PBS. I want to
sift through the pages and discover what happened to the girl
and if there was any cover-up.
Re: Her Accidental Boyfriend (6:39pm October 31, 2013):
My kids have surprised me at times, but it wasn't an accident.
Well, it was more of a plan rather than something that
happened by chance.
Re: The Children of the Mist (6:29pm October 31, 2013):
It would be frightening to awaken with power at my fingertips.
Instead of my usual day.
Re: Lord of Swords (6:27pm October 31, 2013):
Swords in Medieval times kept the peace and were a symbol of
honor and strength. Being knighted by royalty is pretty
special and one of my distant relatives received that touch.
I like historical fiction and the "Knight Room" at the
Cleveland Museum of Art where there are shields, swords and
armoured knights on armoured horses is filled with scenes
and the sense of the past come to life. The tapestries on
the wall also look elegant and portray clashes between
enemies and also idyllic scenes.
Re: Marry Me, Cowboy (6:12pm October 31, 2013):
Pink is a rare thing for my former husband to wear, although
it brings out the pink in his cheeks. I think the color
choices for men have broadened and more of them are wearing
colors previously reserved for women.
Re: Snowbound With The Soldier (6:10pm October 31, 2013):
My friend gave me an extra pair of tickets to see "The
Delivery Man" on Tuesday as a sneak preview. That way my
girlfriend's 90 year old mom and her daughter could come. We
laughed a lot in the full theater and were glad we got there
early.
Re: Jude (6:08pm October 31, 2013):
Selling yourself to the devil means a life out of your hands.
Saving his brother offers a contrast to the life he chose and
a chance to redeem himself and straighten up his ways.
Re: Paige Rewritten (6:05pm October 31, 2013):
The cold puts a lively step in your feet because it keeps you
moving. Your book looks like it's a good one for any weather.
Re: Secrets Of A Scandalous Marriage (6:03pm October 31, 2013):
I love that you were being asked for more stories when just
getting published. This shows there's a need and a demand for
what you are writing. I love historical fiction and this one
has title that tickles me to open the book and flip through
the pages and savor what's to come.
Re: The Patterer (6:00pm October 31, 2013):
Your characters sound like they do zany things and love
attention from a passing audience.
Re: One Night in the Spa (5:59pm October 31, 2013):
Do they call the older competitors part of the Master's
division like in swimming. Good luck in this fast-paced sport
that gives you a real workout. I last played racquetball in
college with younger knees.
Re: Love and Other Games (5:56pm October 31, 2013):
Picking apples, trying to hold onto a lot of pumpkins and
carving the best one, singing carols and sharing the warmth
of food with friends and family are things I like to do now
that it's cooler. Watching the leaves change colors and
going on walks and snappy smell of fires lit in the
fireplace make me get out the winter clothes and changeover
my closets.
Re: Bite Me, Your Grace (5:51pm October 31, 2013):
The Addams Family is probably the mildest which is my speed.
Re: Newton Neighbors (5:48pm October 31, 2013):
Chaos seems to follow me as I'm a creative person and can
usually find whatever I need. Organizing is something like a
foreign language to me.
Re: My Lady Quicksilver (5:46pm October 31, 2013):
Lying takes a lot of work to keep it going and to keep it
straight. Once a lie is told, it seems to gain momentum and
gets embellished with more to prove your point again and
again. Sometimes, if you're good at reading body language,
you can figure out when the lies are starting to come out.
the truth may be hard to admit, but it's hard to deny.
Re: Single Dad's Christmas Miracle (5:41pm October 31, 2013):
Christmas stories and holiday ones put a smile on my face.
It's a special time of year where traditions are made and kept
according to what works for your family.
Re: The Volatile Amazon (5:40pm October 31, 2013):
Stories bring "talks" down to the level of those small ears
that want an answer to the question, "Why?" I think it's
through stories that family history comes to life and can be
anchored in the way the world worked back then.
Re: The Training (5:37pm October 31, 2013):
The rules are meant to be for one person's advantage. But it
sure is fun to see what happens when the rules are broken and
usually the submissive person doesn't change, yet compromises
a lot.
Re: The Seduction of Lady Phoebe (5:35pm October 31, 2013):
Secondary characters help the main ones shine and also give
them someone to bounce ideas off.
Re: Long Shot (5:34pm October 31, 2013):
Kilts are intriguing form the pin that holds it together and
the plaids of the clan. I went to a multi-cultural meeting
where it was all explained including the "purse" and the
bagpipes.
Re: How To Date A Dragon (7:32pm September 27, 2013):
How to Date a Dragon looks like a sizzling page turner. I'm
glad you passed on a book to someone who needed a lift. I
like to share books with friends and I match the book to the
person and the mood they find themselves in.
Re: A Line Throught Chevington (7:29pm September 27, 2013):
You seem to find inspiration everywhere. I do like hearing
war stories and what became of the people who suffered loss,
hardship and their moments of joy and happiness.
Re: The Outlaw Knight (7:28pm September 27, 2013):
Family feuds even from long ago still intrigue me with their
passion and sense of inheritance.
Re: Shades Of Mercy (1:01pm September 11, 2013):
For the author, staying true to your characters gives you
the anchors on which to build a whole story and even
sequels. But occasionally, it's fun to go out of character
as long as there's a good reason or a point you want to
illustrate. Historical fiction is one of my favorite
genres. Native American Indians have customs and culture
that is intriguing and especially their land rights and
wrongs. I enjoy reading about Blackfeet Indians along with
other tribes and their reverence for nature and the land
where many feet have passed.
Re: A Perfect Distraction (12:43pm September 11, 2013):
Hockey makes my heart beat faster and both my sons played
when young. I read about one hockey player who claims he
travels light and just takes a toothbrush on trips. You
must still be glowing having met Scott Stevens, a hero with
heart, like a lot of hockey players. Books about sports do
hold my interest and yours looks like an intensely hot read.
Re: Honeymoon To Die For (12:38pm September 11, 2013):
First off, it's the title, then I check the front cover,
followed by reading the blurb and what's on the back cover.
Then, I open the book to the middle and read at random and see
if it holds my interest and if so, put the book in my cart and
have a run off comparing the books I found that day.
Re: The Sweetest Hallelujah (2:06pm August 3, 2013):
It sounds good with opposites having to work out their
differences to get along somehow. I'm reading a book,
Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All by Allan Gurganus,
where a woman goes full circle being cared for by her maid
and then setting her free. It's quite a long book filled
with stories "remembered" from Civil War time and shows how
the relationships grew and changed over the years.
Re: Tall, Dark, And Vampire (2:00pm August 3, 2013):
Bloodlust and family are the best ones, I believe, since they
both pull at the heart and the envy is something that drives
desire wild.
Re: Jaguar Fever (1:46pm August 3, 2013):
Shapeshifters make my hair stand up on my back as I try to
hold onto my inner screams and avoid looking for trouble.
They seem to find situations that I can't imagine being in,
yet it grips me to turn the pages fast and find out how they
get out of the dilemmas.
Re: Plain Fear: Forgiven (1:44pm August 3, 2013):
I like reading about both good and bad guys, but the bad boys
reformed interest me most. And if they have some redeeming
quality, it's even better.
Re: Death Al Dente (1:42pm August 3, 2013):
I have lived near my hometown all my life and think
everything is smaller now, except for the number of people
which has gone up. Not realizing our town was 13,000 I
loved the small town vibes and the friendly feel. If I
moved back, I would explore all my old places and see what's
new plus check out the woods across the street from my old
house which includes a creek and a long hill.
Re: Complete Me (8:53pm July 25, 2013):
Thanks for writing books I want to read. It's kindof like
breathing to hear how you write with intuition and sass.
Re: Reckless (8:52pm July 25, 2013):
Stuntmen make the action wilder and more realistic in movies,
so in a book, they take on the hard stuff and make it look
easy with a few bumps on occasion.
Re: Rugged Hearts (8:51pm July 25, 2013):
A good friend of mine has been a big influence in the
shortened time she moved on this earth. She was unbiased and
taught me tolerance and how to collect sunsets, which take up
no space except in the mind.
Re: Moonlight (8:49pm July 25, 2013):
Shifters are more my speed rather than the raw needs of
vampires.
Re: The Outcast Prince (8:48pm July 25, 2013):
Paranormal is a genre that grows on you. It took me several
decades to switch my mindset to accept the imagination of
shapeshifter authors.
Re: Nora Roberts Land (8:53pm July 23, 2013):
I like the premise and think that you have garnered a set of
readers who already like romance and give them more of what
they like.
Re: An Open Heart (8:52pm July 23, 2013):
I like learning how to shape the intention and focus of the
main character. Thanks for clearing up how to make the reader
half-believe something that is a stretch of the truth by
having the MC (Main Character) accept it and go with the flow.
Re: Raspberries and Vinegar (8:53pm July 22, 2013):
I love going to farmer's markets and making chili and great
fresh salads from the freshest of local produce hand-picked
out by me. I first tasted raw sweet corn when Farmer Jones
said you can tell how fresh it is by tasting it before you
buy.
Re: Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir (8:52pm July 22, 2013):
I like how you followed your heart plus didn't take the "No's"
and get upset by buying a house on another continent.
Re: Magic Rises (8:52pm July 17, 2013):
You have a lot going on with those shapeshifters.
Re: Rancher to the Rescue (8:51pm July 17, 2013):
He can make good breakfasts and fish sticks.
Re: Charm and Consequence (6:48pm July 15, 2013):
People who are organized strike me as odd, because it's
fascinating to me to have a place for everything. I am
organized about eating.
Re: Emeralds of the Alhambra (4:42pm July 14, 2013):
Historical fiction holds a lot of richness in the settings. I
like learning about life from long ago and the traditions and
mores held upright then. I bet emeralds may be more than just
gems.
Re: Merger to Marriage (10:42pm July 13, 2013):
I like surprises, so an author doesn't have to be
predictable. Both the scene where Lucy stuffs her face
along with Vivian at the chocolate assembly line and the
grape stomping where she has a food fight with grapes and
eventually gets dunked into the wine vat are favorites of
mine.
Re: Masquerade (10:29pm July 13, 2013):
Bad girls are forever trying to prove themselves to others.
They seek approval, but lack the savvy to be appropriate
unless something is in it for themselves. They are driven
to do the wrong thing because that is what they know best
and because of their flaws, we are drawn to them like honey
beckons flies.
Re: Jungle Fire (6:26pm July 12, 2013):
I love a small town for cozy mysteries, but anyplace that
involves a beach or culture different from the norm intrigues
me.
Re: The Rogue Steals A Bride (6:24pm July 12, 2013):
Historical romance takes a lot of research to keep the details
accurate. I love romances no matter what the setting or
century.
Re: If The Shoe Fits (6:22pm July 12, 2013):
I feel that "something" when men can't admit to feelings of
being flawed or vulnerable and the acts of forgiveness we all
want them to participate. The two hardest words to say is
"I'm sorry."
Re: Ignited (6:20pm July 12, 2013):
PTSD has been in the news more nowadays and also the
difficulty veterans have accessing service for mental issues.
Your books are right on trend and thanks for highlighting an
issue many troops face abroad and at home.
Re: Pennsylvania Patchwork (11:09pm July 10, 2013):
I like to read about the Amish and had cousins who attended
an auction where the townspeople let the Amish have the
goods cheaper. There's good cooking in Amish country with
buttery rich breads and baked goods at the Farmer's Markets.
The food is delightful at the Der Dutchman Restaurant in
Ohio with the date pudding that I still dream about.
Re: Pieces Of The Heart (11:03pm July 10, 2013):
What a beautiful quilt in pine and earth colors. One of my
friends told me about quilts from the underground railroad
which were used as signals as to safe houses. I went to a
huge quilt show with another friend and we saw all kinds and
sizes of quilts hand or machine quilted. Such care is taken
making quilts from scraps or new material in different
shades.
Re: Guardian (10:45pm July 9, 2013):
Yep. Second chances are what I hope for especially if the
first ones don't work. It just sounds and seems more gracious
and mannerly.
Re: My First - Jason & Katie (8:51pm July 8, 2013):
I love stories of more than one writer. I went to a romance
author's book signing a decade ago and the two authors each
took a century to follow the bed and action therein or there
upon. It was called Once Upon a Pillow by Christina Dodd and
Connie Brockway.
Re: Love's Peril (8:45pm July 8, 2013):
I want to know about the ruined countess in Love's Peril. Was
there cheating involved with the card game? Is that a sure
bet?
Re: The Medic's Homecoming (8:43pm July 8, 2013):
I don't really like zombies, but during my daughter's bridal
shower dinner out, a zombie parade passed by. She knew a few
of the people with zombie makeup and ragged clothes on and it
was fun to talk to them.
Re: Exposed (5:47pm July 5, 2013):
Thank you for picking me for the Scorched Advanced Readers
Copy. I like books that are hot off the presses (pun).
Re: Prince of Secrets (5:35pm July 5, 2013):
Girl, you sure are prolific. I guess, you'll have a good two
months to try to keep up with appearances and stay organized.
Something has to give when you're so busy, so I'm wondering if
it's housework or fun in general?
Re: Final Sentence (5:32pm July 5, 2013):
Nathan Filian, Bradley Cooper, Steve Carell are all funny and
can be serious, too. I love books that have recipes in the
back, like romantic mysteries and, of course, cookbooks.
Re: It Happened One Midnight (5:30pm July 5, 2013):
You are leading us on and we readers know to not be fooled
with ultimatums and that famous word, "Not." Of course, he'll
pursue her, and we'll hear a whole lot more squeaks, maybe
even louder.
Re: Paradise Valley (5:27pm July 5, 2013):
The West as a setting makes my heart palpitate. I can't wait
to see how wild your West is along with the cowboys and
wranglers who populate the vast territory.
Re: Breathe Again (5:23pm July 5, 2013):
As a medical professional, I like TV scenes that are close to
real life, you know, the plausible ones. I can sniff out when
the actors are just saying words and don't know what they
mean.
Re: Winning a Bride (5:20pm July 5, 2013):
More words are great, so an expanded novella suits me fine. I
do look forward to love scenes, it's the reader's reward for
romance fiction.
Re: All Out of Love (8:53pm July 1, 2013):
Variety is the spice that makes dishes better. So, of course,
the quiz shows me as an avid reader. I used to read by
flashlight as a child, because we had to turn the lights out
at night.
Re: Exposed (4:54pm June 30, 2013):
Crime scenes are quite intriguing whether ransacked conditions
or posed bodies. Looks like a good gripping read.
Re: Luck of the Dragon (4:53pm June 30, 2013):
Congrats on birthing your first novel. Banter usually makes
me giggle and I like overhearing conversations to steal for my
own manuscripts.
Re: Smoking Hot (4:51pm June 30, 2013):
An angel on my shoulder would be a cherub with arrows making
dreams a reality. Erotic Romances seem to be hot this year
and last.
Re: Wish You Were Here (4:46pm June 30, 2013):
I read by flashlight growing up, because we had to turn out
the lights at a certain time of night. Riding my bike and
having a basket that held a lot of books if you packed them
in right, my hunger for reading started as a youngun' Mom
read chapter books, like Little Women and Little Men, to me
and 3 siblings at night with our doors open.
Re: Masters of The Cats: Collaring The Saber-Tooth (4:43pm June 30, 2013):
I find that my bed is where I do most of my reading. Usually
I'm never without a book for those spare moments when it fills
in the time nicely, plus books in hand are the best for me,
because I like to use bookmarks.
Re: Flirting with Disaster (8:54pm June 10, 2013):
The title sounds interesting and fatal flaws are excrutiating.
Re: The Firebird (5:23pm June 8, 2013):
At first it was the dog stories, Lad a Dog, and Anne of Green
Gables and Little Women. Now, I read a range of genres and
like romantic suspense and comedy.
Re: Tainted Angel (5:21pm June 8, 2013):
I'm intrigued by spy stories and like it when they aren't too
predictable.
Re: Lord of the Hunt (5:19pm June 8, 2013):
Yep. I love to follow characters in a series and see how they
grow and what dilemmas they get into. Secrets are fine as
long as they aren't damaging to the person they concern.
Re: The Seven-Day Target (8:51pm May 1, 2013):
Romantic suspense is my favorite genre, especially if it has
strong women and food or some other twist.
Re: Father By Choice (8:50pm May 1, 2013):
Having kids in the story makes it feel more lie real life.
It's a good way to introduce characters that tug on your
heart.
Re: Read Humane Rescue My Heart (8:48pm May 1, 2013):
Great picks and story. My daughter got her cats over the
years from the pound.
Re: Identity Crisis (4:53pm March 29, 2013):
A good forgery is hard for laypeople to tell from a fake.
And even some experts argue about what's expected from an
artist, so sometimes the field is murky. I believe that if
an artist signs a forgery, they're complicit in a crime and
make the art world poorer for their lack in judgment.
Re: A Shot Of Sultry (4:45pm March 29, 2013):
I think the thought counts as points in the long run, but
what counts more is the person who stands behind the gift
when they give it to you. My most romantic gift was a trip
to Cancun, Mexico, for our honeymoon. The hotel had 5 pools
outside and Casablanca restaurant which was superb.
Re: Hot Ticket (4:42pm March 29, 2013):
Erotic fiction seems to be having a rise and I think the
resurgence has to do with Fifty Shades of Grey having so much
buzz.
Re: Revenge On Route 66 (4:40pm March 29, 2013):
I was surprised to learn James Bond's birthday is Nov 11.
You'd think that it would have either the 07 as the month as
in July or have 7 as the day of the month he was born or when
he became part of Her Majesty's Secret Service.
Re: Beautiful Bastard (4:50pm March 24, 2013):
Bookstores are tantalizing for me and I look for books in
stores I frequent besides the regular places like the B&N and
Mac's Backs where I go to a poetry workshop once a month.
Another place I browse books is at Half-Price Books and
garage sales.
Re: Scorched (4:47pm March 24, 2013):
I like escapist fiction and all sorts of other kinds.
Romance is a broad category and when it involves food or
spying, it gets my attention. SXSW is more of a happening
with a focus on the arts including music and books. I've
heard about the fashions worn by those who want to be seen.
Re: Wait Until Dark (4:43pm March 24, 2013):
I was in a Writer's Group where one guy wrote horror fiction.
On page two after listing various details about the weapons,
everybody except the main character and his gang were mowed
down. We told him to do a little bit more character
development before the killing.
Re: Nickeled-And-Dimed To Death (4:39pm March 24, 2013):
Love the premise of your book along with Gossip Central where
you hope the gossip about those close to you is the good
kind.
Re: Lord of the Keep (4:38pm March 24, 2013):
Keep on writing great books and enjoy the cover with the
strength of the Lord's gaze and the peregrine falcon or eagle
at his shoulder.
Re: The Forsaken (4:36pm March 24, 2013):
My mom had an out of body experience, but was brought back to
earth by unseen hands when she almost died. She talked about
a tunnel and a white light.
Re: Silence Of The Llamas (9:52pm February 28, 2013):
I agree that a phrase or a certain word can trigger a whole slew of others to follow, so a journal comes in mighty handy. There are a few Llama farms in Ohio and they sure are a gently animal prized for their coats that can be spun into yarn.
Re: Jake (9:50pm February 28, 2013):
Yep. Cowboys look mighty fine and all that hard work ripples in their physique. The Conways seem able to reach down-to-earth and sweep their favorite gals off their feet.
Re: The Marriage Bargain (9:48pm February 28, 2013):
I think crossing genres is fine, but I'm not so sure if the bookstores know where to put them since they are in more than one category.
Re: The Chieftain (9:46pm February 28, 2013):
I like that your hero and heroine knew each other in the past since they know more about how each other ticks and what tics each off. Expect more buttons to be pushed in relationships that go way back.
Re: Hot Ticket (9:45pm February 28, 2013):
A good friend can overlook what some people call faults and find the good stuff to boost up instead.
Re: Cowboy Tough (9:44pm February 28, 2013):
Cowboys make me stand at attention and whistle, but mine sounds more like a tea kettle than a real whistle.
Re: Wait Until Dark (9:43pm February 28, 2013):
I like reading about your escape and the layers in your writing. It makes sense to Have the characters move around a place or setting and to have a cuase or point that the MC (Main Character) wants to make or the rest of the crew.
Re: A SEAL's Seduction (10:39am February 19, 2013):
I went to a book signing with 2 romance authors who each took a bed and followed it through separate centuries in Once Upon a Pillow. The cover for one of their books had too many hands on the guy and got by the graphic designer and gave us all a laugh. Now I look for extras on the covers. I do not think covers over the book cover are necessary. I like picking up books and try to figure out the clues in the cover and if they match the story between the pages.
Re: The Boss?s Fake Fiance (10:34am February 19, 2013):
I like stories with a twist because the unexpected has an element of surprise and that can delight or disgust.
Re: The Eldritch Conspiracy (10:32am February 19, 2013):
At times the books are better than the movies, because they take more liberties to show the action in the scenes in the movies rather than letting them unfold over time.
Re: Wildcat (2:54pm February 17, 2013):
I would say, "You've got my stallion and I want him back. Are
you just going to stand there with your mouth open catching
flies or are we gonna have a discussion?"
Re: A Howl For A Highlander (2:52pm February 17, 2013):
I would find a den to nest in and start setting up house and
claim my territory and see who crosses the threshold because
of my magnetic qualities to attract and track the Alpha Wolf
or the Alpha in whatever form he takes.
Re: Murder Hooks a Mermaid (2:10pm February 17, 2013):
I want to go back to Nemacolin Woodlands in Pennsylvania near
Falling Water and tour the caves, have a massage and go wading
in the pool that has a swim up bar. It's funny that you don't
have to leave the water to get a cool drink.
Re: Undercover Wolf (4:41pm January 27, 2013):
You go the gamut, girl. I read Merle's Door: Lessons From a Free-Thinking Dog last month and it reminds me of how pets are intuitive. Romantic suspense with pets playing a key role is pretty crafty.
Re: Falling for her Fiance (4:37pm January 27, 2013):
Tall, sensitive, cute and huggable would be on my list for fine guy. Humor gets you through just about anything, but sometimes it isn't until years later, that you can look back and learn and maybe laugh at "What was I thinking?"
Re: Real Men Don\'t Break Hearts (4:35pm January 27, 2013):
Sounds like you pluck people from everyday life and toss them in the mix for you characters. When I'm asked where I get ideas for my poems and writings, I say everywhere. I especially like to overhear conversations and tuck them away for someday to use to jazz up my dialogue.
Re: Blue Ice (4:25pm January 27, 2013):
You leave me smiling for more with all the talk about ice.
Somebody wrote a book about Out on Thin Ice which makes me wonder about the opposite Thick Ice. Are your investigators icy and quietly letting the talk flow from the suspects?
Re: Murder for the Halibut (4:20pm January 27, 2013):
Fun list. I like how you pump it up and the positives you're already focussing on.
Re: Fallen Angel (2:09pm January 24, 2013):
I'm thankful for family traditions especially the ones that end up turning out good.
Re: The Seventh Victim (2:08pm January 24, 2013):
I agree that the setting is a character with dimensions and personality. It gives a mantle on which action takes place and offers a landscape for escape or for chase scenes.
Re: The Ravenous Dead (2:05pm January 24, 2013):
I'm grateful for another chance to try walking in a group in a marathon coming up in May. Mostly, I'm thankful for friends and family who stick by me in my endeavers and love me even when I'm not perfect.
Re: A Taste Of Ice (2:04pm January 24, 2013):
White Clover Creek has one of those down home names that can fool you into looking up the place when you're near other towns in Colorado. Love the ice on the cover as it reminds me of the icycles dangling from my gutters waiting for someone to walk by when the weather breaks.
Re: Gabriel's Inferno (2:01pm January 24, 2013):
Oh, yes. You know how to write the sex or almost sex scenes. Breathing heavy and pauses, what more can a reader want?
Re: The Officer Breaks The Rules (1:59pm January 24, 2013):
It's greatt when friends turn into something more, but friends are fine to share your ups and those downs. If you can be friends there's always the chance that it'll become something more depending on timing and availability.
Re: Waking Up With A Rake (4:49pm January 12, 2013):
Rakes already sound like they have quite a history and it's not good, but that's what is so tantanlizing. I prefer stories with heroines and or heroes to those without. Please keep writing more good stuff.
Re: Thrill Ride (4:46pm January 12, 2013):
I like the covers and what's between them in this series of books with eye candy on the front. Romantic suspense is a genre that I can't keep my hands off of.
Re: Birthright (4:45pm January 12, 2013):
I just found out why my parents maintained part of the Buckeye Trail for 30 years, because it was part of the 165 acre farm my dad's family grew up on. There's also a road and a mill by the canal named after them. My mom's family used to be buggy-stripers so that's where her artistic ability comes from - she paints and writes articles for the newspaper. I would reinvent myself as a researcher for medicine to help more people.
Re: Live And Let Love (4:23pm December 28, 2012):
Spies as women is a twist I like a lot, because it's so unexpected to almost everyone. You are so sneaky and I'm going to love finding the clues you sprinkle throughout the pages.
Re: Renegade (8:57pm December 24, 2012):
Polar Express book was made into a mighty fine movie. I remeber my kids gathered around Mrs. Claus reading about a reindeer while the staff at that jewelry store beamed and covered counters with sheets and piled trays of homemade cookies to decorate and take home some goodies.
Re: The Bridegroom Wore Plaid (5:49pm December 9, 2012):
I think they used perfume, potpourri and pomanders to cover up the smells in homes back then. Also lavendar essential oil on a handerchief made for a dainty way of creating a bit of aura to offset the upleasant odors.
Re: Rancher's Son (5:46pm December 9, 2012):
Cowboys sure are sexy and this is the first I heard of cattle drives down in Florida.
Re: Wanting Sex Again (5:45pm December 9, 2012):
Oh, the dilemmas and thrills of being a woman. Your story looks like it has a lot of "Oomph" in it.
Re: Holiday Buzz (2:22pm December 5, 2012):
Food and mysteries are my favorite kind of book to sink my teeth into. Thanks for the recipes and the lively imagination you can't put to rest.
Re: Too Close For Comfort (2:21pm December 5, 2012):
Well, I shot BB guns at targets with supervision at Boy Scout Camp. We took turns and had to lay on belly, squint while looking through a tiny opening (site) and hold breath hoping for the best. Most of us hit the target after a bit of practice. I haven't tried anything new lately, but am reading about new things to do.
Re: She Can Tell (6:38pm December 3, 2012):
Stories with animals are heart-warming and remind me of the pets of my past. I can remember reading "Lad, A Dog" in elementary school.
Re: Mistletoe, Merriment, and Murder (11:53am December 1, 2012):
Your mysteries look like they're pretty funny. I do love a good mystery on a cold night.
Re: A Christmas Bride / Christmas Beau (8:45pm November 30, 2012):
Christmas stories always lift my spirits higher even when they're already up.
Re: Christmas Confidential (8:41pm November 30, 2012):
Stringing popcorn and cranberries on nylon thread and hanging it on the tree before the holidays and then afterwards putting the garland out for the birds and animals to have their treat is a fond memory.
Re: How I Came To Sparkle Again (8:39pm November 30, 2012):
Well, being a lady, I go by landmarks when giving directions.
Re: Double Time (8:38pm November 30, 2012):
Music is fine with me as long as there's no screaming and it helps to be able to figure out the words. Right now I like pop and music related to movies.
Re: Heart Of A Texan (8:37pm November 30, 2012):
I saw True Grit as an Advanced Sneak Preview and was amazed at how good cowboys and the wild west looked. Cowboys are usually hard workers who have long days working up a sweat and trying to manage making a ranch or farm work out.
Re: Unmasked (8:37pm November 26, 2012):
The pouf where my belly used to be flat before kids is something I'd like to tone, but food keeps calling my name and I answer especially around the holidays.
Re: Unforgettable (8:34pm November 26, 2012):
Your scenes in the book remind me of movies I've seen where things don't work out the way you expect, but somehow it doesn't matter in the long run. Since what you end up getting is a version that's better anyways. Meeting up with people is all about timing and the stages you are going through at the moment. At times, it kindof grows on you, the person you become and the person in front of you, that you decide is worthy of friendship and all that goes along with it.
Re: Wolfishly Yours (8:29pm November 26, 2012):
Wolves seem to be more popular nowadays both the real ones and those imagined to be transformable with both human and animal characteristics. I've written twice this year about keeping the wolves in Wyoming on the endangered species list.
Re: Untamed (8:26pm November 26, 2012):
Usually I'm making a list and checking it against my budget and dreaming of gifts for each person and the wrapping to go with. I also start wondering what happened to the tape and scissors.
Re: The Prince's Gamble (8:07pm November 26, 2012):
What a giving spirit this holiday season for those truly in need.
Re: Holiday in Crimson (1:55pm November 25, 2012):
Usually Santa doesn't get into so much trouble. My favorite Christmas memory was the time mom decided our dinner would be at a park. We had New England Boiled Dinner in an empty Metropark and ate quickly with gloves on and you could see your breath. Food always tastes better outside.
Re: The Clue Is In The Pudding (1:52pm November 25, 2012):
Mysteries and food make the mysterious comfort food for the spirit and soul. I love when recipes are included in books and ones that revolve around food, cooking and eating. It makes them tastier. Looks like another winner indeed.
Re: Taming the Outback (1:50pm November 25, 2012):
Feistiness makes me want to try out some of the same techniques on people I know.
Re: Rogue Rider (6:50pm November 19, 2012):
Redeeming qualities is what makes characters more human. Overcoming troubles in unusual ways makes me turn the pages faster.
Re: Playing at Love (6:47pm November 19, 2012):
My favorite sport to watch is baseball. A quarterback I like is Brian Sipes who was called the Cardiac Kid because he could make a play at the last minute and it worked.
Re: Refuge (6:09pm November 18, 2012):
Living in a free country gives you the opportunity to move beyond tradition and adopt new practices that work for you, your friends and your family. I like that the rigidity of some countries doesn't have a big stake here.
Re: Renegade (6:07pm November 18, 2012):
Georgette Heyer was my introduction to historical romance.
First impressions stay with you a long time, so I feel like there's pressure to make them good.
Re: Christmas On Mimosa Lane (5:55pm November 18, 2012):
One of my twins had a Tinker Bell Wand and she thought it gave her extra special powers. Thanks for writing a delightful holiday story infused with light and hope.
Re: The Hoard (5:52pm November 18, 2012):
You are so right about October being the month when the macabre, zombies and witches stir up mischief. I once knew a writer who in his story had all sorts of weapons which he used on the first three pages and then there were hardly any characters left. In the writers group we asked for more character development to make us care more about the people involved.
Re: Enslaved (5:48pm November 18, 2012):
The hero being damaged is fine as long as he has some softening of his hard edges and shows he cares at times.
Re: Heart of Danger (5:47pm November 18, 2012):
I haven't read collapse of the world books, but remember from a conference how to prepare for a disaster.
Re: What The Cat Saw (5:46pm November 18, 2012):
Cats know when you want company, curl up beside you and release their loud purr.
Re: The Twelve Clues Of Christmas (5:44pm November 18, 2012):
As a child, I remember when we got sleds and it didn't snow, so we played marbles and made other games with the plastic sleds.
Re: The Fangover (5:42pm November 18, 2012):
If a song is mentioned in a story and I know what the tune is, it stays with me, creating a mood for awhile.
Re: Texas Wide Open (5:39pm November 18, 2012):
Cowboys, ranches and trouble. What's not to like?
Re: How To Tame A Willful Wife (5:34pm November 18, 2012):
Yep, I'm one of those dreamy lovers and I believe that taming is part of the chemistry between two destined for love.
Re: A Wedding In Apple Grove (5:32pm November 18, 2012):
Your story sounds cozy, comfy and sweet and I want to curl up in a loveseat and page through to find all the good stuff. I like the idea of a know-it-all who keeps track of everyone in town since this is what happens in small towns.
Re: Ashes Of Twilight (5:30pm November 18, 2012):
You have a way with words and I like knowing how you get from concept to creating a cohesive line of words to make a story that makes sense.
Re: The Bracelet (5:28pm November 18, 2012):
Evocative. Reminds me of a time in a short story/poetry class thawt we were each give a paper bag with an object in it. Min was a button and I had to incorporate that in a piced of writing. It seems to be easier to write when you can look at something concrete instead of reaching around for the wisps and making them appear to be real.
Re: Let It Sew (5:25pm November 18, 2012):
Great cover and I enjoy reading about book clubs, sewing clubs and most especially food in stories. This looks like a lively read.
Re: Death In The Floating City (3:39pm November 5, 2012):
I love reading and have broadened my repertoire to include categories I skipped years ago.
Re: Conspiracy Of Angels (3:38pm November 5, 2012):
I think male characters create scenes and expect the actions to talk for their relationships like in the strong, stoic types. Men prefer to do rather than talk unless forced to give a reply and have it dragged out of them.
Re: Resurrected (3:36pm November 5, 2012):
Strong heroines are what it took to make it in pioneer times, war and I can see some of the traits in my friends now.
Re: The Snow White Christmas Cookie (3:34pm November 5, 2012):
Mysteries with food as an addition appeal to my senses and tastes. I like the way you get away with killing people off in your stories.
Re: Down for the Count (7:18pm November 1, 2012):
Dares are pretty sneaky and risky, so I don't particularly like dares. Challenges are more my speed because it takes finesse and going out of my comfort level to reach for what it takes to get going onto another rung of the ladder of success. Your story has a visceral element that captures the inner turmoils the characters are involved with. Thanks for making the condition of the gut so clear.
Re: Midnight Exposure (7:14pm November 1, 2012):
Strength of character in romance and mysteries are revealed as trouble commences. I can identify with a strong female having to shape her future while surrounded by family and friends or even in isolation she becomes resilient.
Re: The Warrior (7:11pm November 1, 2012):
Castles, legends and men who wear kilts all are worth looking at and I enjoy stories with a Scottish or Irish flair. The accents are fun to figure out, too.
Re: Iced Chiffon (4:12pm October 28, 2012):
Oh, do I love cozy mysteries especially ones revolving around food and maybe have a feature recipe in the back.
Re: Kissed By A Vampire (4:11pm October 28, 2012):
The contrast in your characters is striking. The mix looks different and good.
Re: One Night with a Hero (11:29am October 27, 2012):
Military heroes have those uniforms and such discipline that they tend to find someone more bendable to speak to their spirit.
Re: Lady Louisa's Christmas Knight (8:48pm October 26, 2012):
I like Christmas stories that remind me of traditions that I keep and ones I'd like to incorporate like the Cafeteria Plan for Celebrating.
Re: Mistletoe Cowboy (8:47pm October 26, 2012):
I like when series continue and when there's some reality in the setting for anchoring. Your bookcover looks mighty fine indeed.
Re: Blood Therapy (9:49pm October 25, 2012):
Vampires kindof grow on you.
Re: Tempting the Best Man (9:48pm October 25, 2012):
Oh, yes please, the alpha male is strong, sexy and appealing.
Re: Losing Control (9:48pm October 25, 2012):
I like series books especially the ones by Les Roberts where a detective solves myseries and is named Milan.
Re: Abigail And Mistletoe (10:00am October 25, 2012):
The concept of a makeup artist making a difference in someone scarred is heartwarming. I like the confidence in which you write stories.
Re: Night Thief (9:57am October 25, 2012):
It's fine to anchor paranormal with history. I like learning about both and the setting holds sway with creating a world in the imagination peopling it with characters that move back and forth in and out of reality.
Re: Escape (4:44pm October 21, 2012):
More people are interested in genealogy and how their family's roots interconnect. I watched a PBS show on Native American Indians and how the Long Walk affects their bloodlines. They were warned to not marry within their same clan and as time went on relaized how a recessive gene gave them kids with XP.
Re: Miss Lavigne's Little White Lie (7:21pm October 19, 2012):
First impressions don't always work, but they give you something to take away or build on. Once I told a person that I tolerated her and that sure didn't go over well.
Re: Rev It Up (7:20pm October 19, 2012):
Writing outside the genres leaves the readers guessing and isn't predictable. Breaking or bending the rules makes me take notice and ask the 5 reporters' questions: Why, who, what, when, where? And then the one that writers want to know: How?
Re: In The Barrister's Bed (4:20pm October 19, 2012):
Sure, lawyers can be sexy and powerful.
Re: Shattered Silence (3:37pm October 19, 2012):
Looking good is a great quality along with the uniform and badge. I like learning more about cowboys and how they wrassle around with their emotions and with members of the opposite sex.
Re: Born To Be Wild (3:35pm October 19, 2012):
I galloped once back to the stall when a horse was spooked by a pet lop-eared rabbit. Hanging onto the reins and staying seated was tough as I grit my teeth and hoped for the best. I still have a healthy respect for large animals.
Re: Tall, Dark, and Divine (3:32pm October 19, 2012):
Tall and dark conjures up my idea of a perfect guy. The rest is just gravy for the mashed potatoes. I like your different take on the gods and seeing how someone gets knocked off their pedestal.
Re: Death, Taxes, and a Sequined Clutch (3:29pm October 19, 2012):
I'd like to think it's all fair, but know it's not. Revenge tends to trip you up and doesn't make you feel very satisfied. Even though you ask, maybe telling someone how you really feel can hurt feelings and break off friendships. As time goes on, you find how much to reveal and how far you can encourage or "push" the friend out of a comfort zone.
Re: Sultry With A Twist (3:25pm October 19, 2012):
Having twins after one Lamaze class made the others in the class think I was an expert. Yet having twins does make you better at being efficient because there's no way you can divide yourself in half and give complete attention to each. I figured out how to do everything for one and then turn to the other instead of hopping back and forth. It's amazing all the sex questions I got, too and if they were "planned." I like reading romance for all the scenes, romantic and otherwise. Your book looks like it has plenty to hold the reader's interest.
Re: Run The Risk (3:27pm October 14, 2012):
That male protagonist has always been the one to straddle the line between danger and safety. I like to see what it takes to get him out of troubles.
Re: The Shadowy Horses (3:24pm October 14, 2012):
Dialect adds richness to the story. I remember on Johnny Carson Show one guest could tell which london suburb the person was from by the way he talked with accents and the slang of the town.
Re: Against His Will (3:07pm October 14, 2012):
It makes the story more interesting, since the contrast intrigues me and keeps me turning the pages.
Re: Lady X's Cowboy (3:06pm October 14, 2012):
I started reading romance in high school, but got more into it in college and beyond. It's a great escape akin to going on a mini-vacation. I do not hide my books and always have one with me.
Re: Shattered Silence (3:03pm October 14, 2012):
Looks like a good western series and the uniforms always bring me to attention.
Re: The Hallowed Ones (4:22pm October 7, 2012):
I enjoy reading about the culture of the Amish, but would not open my door to just any old stranger.
Re: Wild Encounter (4:21pm October 7, 2012):
Well, as a former Girl Scout, I have honed a few survivor skilss, but mainly I would find shelter, food and water.
This sounds like an exciting read.
Re: Contract For Marriage (8:34pm October 5, 2012):
Sounds intense and the pressure on parents to protect their kids of all ages and sizes never grows old.
Re: The Ruins Of Lace (8:33pm October 5, 2012):
Anything used for smuggling is quite mysterious and interesting. The dog angle would be a twist since there are dog sniffers for drugs and that is ironic.
Re: Savage Hunger (8:31pm October 5, 2012):
The Amazon is a fascinating place to read about, but the bugs would scare me. My sister sleeptalked and that was unsettling for me when we shared a room growing up since she'd answer and not remember anything. She was always worried about the pulls on the shades and cords on lamps. I had trouble convincing her they weren't snakes.
Re: Dark Light Of Day (9:18pm October 2, 2012):
I like the different levels of magic and that the powers are waxing or waning like the moon. Does it follow the moon cycles and is a full moon when powers intensify?
Re: Until My Soul Gets It Right (9:30pm October 1, 2012):
As a book club member, the perks include getting more of the behind the scenes action and background. Some book clubs are more social than the actual discussion of books and everybody brings something to the conversation whether they've read the whole book or not. This looks like a fun series and a unique concept.
Re: The Christmas Star (9:26pm October 1, 2012):
I think that writers who have broad interests have a better chance of cross-genre writing. And writers tend to ask the hard questions and always want to know more and dig deeper. Shallow and hollow don't fit my idea of a great novelist. Getting a book to production does take a team of people to at least sound out your wants to see if they can stand up in the waters.
Re: A Lady And Her Magic (1:45pm September 29, 2012):
My first love was mor of a high school crush when my eyes finally came off books and looked around.
Re: Deadly Little Lies (1:43pm September 29, 2012):
Romance, mystery and a bit of food seem to be in most of the books I'm reading nowadays.
Re: Resurrection Express (1:41pm September 29, 2012):
Thanks for sharing how you got started and kept going with writing.
Re: Renegade (1:38pm September 29, 2012):
I'm not really a pruner, but when I think a friend can use a book, I part with one that is suitable.
Re: Secrets Of A Wedding Night (1:36pm September 29, 2012):
Thanks for informing us about faro and I do enjoy a smart hero who is soft around the edges.
Re: Enemies at the Altar (5:54pm September 26, 2012):
Love and hate are strong emeotions at opposite ends of a seesaw or teeter totter. Hating someone isn't a pretty site and ususally reflects upon yourself.
Re: Where There's A Will (5:49pm September 26, 2012):
I do love a romantic romp and a half an angel is a unique concept. Looks like a fun read.
Re: Charming Blue (5:48pm September 26, 2012):
Revising books to readers' reviews would mean nothing would get written. It's enough to have editors and a few chosen readers help make books more readable. You can not please everyone and have a cohesive story as the result. Go with your gut and write what's inside.
Re: Got Game? (5:45pm September 26, 2012):
Female athletes have had my attention ever since Title IX was passed into law in 1970. I think it's taken awhile for broadcast TV to recognize the contributions and give more attention to women in sports. I love watching the Olympics and seeing the determination on the faces of girls of all ages.
Re: Seduction's Shift (5:41pm September 26, 2012):
Interesting concept for shapeshifters with panthers as their alter ego.
Re: Boyfriend From Hell (5:35pm September 26, 2012):
It takes a creative imagination to build a new world in which her characters live and thrive.
Re: A Home For Nobody's Princess (5:34pm September 26, 2012):
Home is wherever you're the most comfortable and can be yourself. I agree that people make the difference and if someone really makes the effort, you can see it in their eyes and manners.
Re: Diary of a Vampire Stripper (5:32pm September 26, 2012):
A creepy girl may find a regular person something that takes her breath away. Looks like a gripping read.
Re: Chasing a Dream (7:42pm September 13, 2012):
Hearing, "No," makes me want to do the opposite, so I understand.
Re: One Wrong Move (7:37pm September 13, 2012):
Great story and snappy dialogue. I want to turn the pages fast and get to the good stuff.
Re: Twin Passions (7:36pm September 13, 2012):
I like romances that are set in other countries. It gives me more of a sense of their culture and traditions.
Re: Pitch Perfect (3:18pm September 10, 2012):
I pick up a lot overlistening to conversations that happen to be near me when I'm around others. Having a writer's imagination, I try to fill in the blanks as the talk goes along. In a Writers' Workshop, I finally learned how to write dialogue when paired up with then professor for an exercise. She was fascinated with how far I can go with an idea. The exercise was kindof like the old parlor game, Telephone, where what you start out saying is nowhere near where it ends up after passing through a few people. We took turns adding to a scene and she said, "You have that stream of conscious thing down." And asked, "How do I do it?" Seeing as I don't do anything and let it flow, I said that it's a natural thing.
Re: Magic Gone Wild (2:38pm September 8, 2012):
Testing magic sounds like great fun.
Re: Death Where The Bad Rocks Live (2:36pm September 8, 2012):
Looks like you're steeped in police procedurals and have the background to mine.
Re: Lucky Break (2:32pm September 8, 2012):
Small towns offer a setting whereby neighbors know one another and each other's business. I like the camaraderie and the ease most smalls have that's lacking in bigger towns.
Re: Death on a Longship (2:31pm September 8, 2012):
Things to do with boats are fascinating to me although I love to keep both feet firmly on the ground.
Re: Every Breath She Takes (2:29pm September 8, 2012):
Romantic mysteries are some of my favorites. Even the breathing part makes me catch my breath and worry about what type of breathing shows up in this story - breathless, shallow, deep or gasping.
Re: Return To Willow Lake (2:26pm September 8, 2012):
I agree that being by water is indeed refreshing and rejuvenating. You get energy from the water and transform it into creative passions. Getting in the "Zone" by water's edge isn't difficult. You just have to show up and let the ripples flow through you. Whenever my spirit needs refueling I find water of some kind and get renewed and go forward.
Re: Treacherous Toys (2:22pm September 8, 2012):
This book has wide stretches of the imagination that inspire the reader to dabble in many genres. I like the pet psychic dynamic.
Re: A Cup Full Of Midnight (2:20pm September 8, 2012):
Setting a place in a book with toches of reality lets the mind see what's the same and what's different and go between the contrasts and follow the parallels to the end. Sounds like a meaty read.
Re: A Place Beyond Courage (2:17pm September 8, 2012):
Medival scenes and the action of doing your duty with granting wishes and wenches seems like it takes a trip into another realm.
Re: In Rides Trouble (2:15pm September 8, 2012):
A retired SEAL who manages to overhaul motorcycles and possible relationships sounds like there's a lot to work with.
Re: Temptation In A Kilt (2:14pm September 8, 2012):
Kilts and misbehavior by men, what's wrong with this picture? Or more likely what's right and intriguing?
Re: When You Give A Duke A Diamond (2:12pm September 8, 2012):
Weak heroines don't hold up for long at least until they get a backbone.
Re: Primal Possession (4:53pm August 19, 2012):
A strong heroine makes for a better story no matter the genre.
Re: Hearse And Buggy (4:52pm August 19, 2012):
I enjoy reading about the Amish and know in Ohio, a large number reside. My Uncle used to go to auctions where the Amish got their merchandise a little cheaper since the neighbors were fair for such hard workers.
Re: Allergic To Death (4:48pm August 19, 2012):
Mysteries with food are my favorite and if recipes are included it's even better.
Re: Desire The Night (4:47pm August 19, 2012):
My first bit of poetry was on love and when i tried writing, it was a mystery.
Re: The Shadow of You (4:24pm July 22, 2012):
Reincarnation and living in a different time with a partner leaves quite a vivid image in my mind.
Re: Scotsmen Prefer Blondes (12:28pm July 21, 2012):
Scots and their land seem so mysterious and I like learning about traditions, plaids, food and dialect of those who speak with a brogue.
Re: Jesse (7:19pm July 20, 2012):
I like your blog and links to romance blogs and found plenty to check out. Cowboys melt my heart with all their hardworking and nonchalant rippling of ripped abs and arm muscles since they're always working out.
Re: Luscious (6:56pm July 20, 2012):
I love romance with a touch of cooking and enjoy recipes related to the story as they make my mouth water.
Re: The Officer Says I DO (6:55pm July 20, 2012):
S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym that is supposed to make you get things done. Specific, Measureable, Action-oriented, Relevant and Timely.
Re: Sacrifice of Passion (6:52pm July 20, 2012):
Derek being a forensic scientist makes me interested in this story.
Re: Beef Stolen-Off (1:28pm July 18, 2012):
I'm sitting for my first grandson who's three months old and when he goes past mirrors, the smile he flashes is broad. We play peek-a-boo with turning around and refinding him in the mirror.
Re: Four Sisters, All Queens (1:33pm July 15, 2012):
I liked learning about Sanchia of Germany and how she was the weakest and hated the weather.
Re: Gwen's Ghost (6:46pm July 12, 2012):
It sounds like you two figured out the way to write a duet anthology without sweating all the tiny details. Having an overall arc and keeping each chapter in one POV or voice seems to help a lot. I bet it was intriguing what you came up with to finish the book.
Re: Dark Crossings (6:43pm July 12, 2012):
Oh, but those cakes, pies and bread are delicious. I understand about shunning when the people don't toe the line including the Amish.
Re: The Reluctant Matchmaker (4:21pm July 10, 2012):
How creative to request a date by height. I know that relationships can get around fine without throwing a difference in height in the situation.
Re: One Breath Away (8:21pm July 9, 2012):
I love mysteries and have progressed from the beginners of Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys which got my toes wet. Then there were the classics like Poe to the ones like Les Roberts 13 series of PI with Milan Jacovich. I've even tried my hand at writing mysteries and will get back to the manuscript this summer.
Re: Lord Of Fire And Ice (5:22pm July 7, 2012):
I like to stretch my imagination with out of the ordinary stories with strong characters like here.
Re: Deep Autumn Heat (5:20pm July 7, 2012):
Trying to run again and facing a hill right away, of course. I ended up doing more of a jog-walk.
Re: It Begins with a Kiss (8:17pm July 5, 2012):
Last Chance Academy sounds like there's no hope except for this like everyone else has given up on the students with an air of indifference. Looks like a good intense read.
Re: The Wrangler (6:51pm July 5, 2012):
Interesting premise gives you a lot to think about and to see how it would feel to be in your characters' shoes.
Re: Lord Of Fire And Ice (6:49pm July 5, 2012):
I think historical romances have a lot to teach besides love.
Re: My Lady Mage (7:32pm July 3, 2012):
I like the way you natch the names to the work the men do.
Re: It Begins with a Kiss (7:31pm July 3, 2012):
Like the background info and I love romantic suspense especially if there's some eating involved.
Re: The Princess and the Outlaw (8:54pm July 2, 2012):
I read as an escape and because I love books of all kinds.
Re: First Do No Evil (4:16pm July 1, 2012):
Sizzling hot is fine with me. Really like the playfulness between male and female characters and who has the power in the relationship.
Re: Lady Amelia's Mess And A Half (8:00pm June 29, 2012):
Wuthering Heights has star-crossed lovers that get under your skin with all that brooding and pacing.
Re: Wicked Nights (7:58pm June 29, 2012):
Milan Jacovich is a private eye in Les Roberts mystery novels like The Irish Sports Pages.
Re: Invitation To Scandal (8:53pm June 27, 2012):
I would like to be an interviewer like Charlie Rose or someone who asks the hard questions and then watches how long it takes to avoid answering the ones everyone wants to know.
Re: Lessons in Loving A Laird (8:51pm June 27, 2012):
Some guy got fresh way too fast and I sent him on his way and lost his number.
Re: Into The Darkest Corner (5:50pm June 25, 2012):
I belong to 2 book groups. The one at the library meets monthly and I was a week early last time. We read and discuss the novels and decide if they are worthy of recommendation for friends or which group would they most appeal to. The other book group meets sporadically and books are decided amongst the members who show up.
Re: Starlight (5:46pm June 25, 2012):
It describes Alex and the relationship he has with Polly.
Re: The Most Improper Miss Sophie Valentine (4:53pm June 24, 2012):
Mixing it up a bit keeps all of us on our toes and opens the eyes to new possibilities. I like changes mostly when they're good and I appreciate the ones that hppen to my favorite characters and friends.
Re: Sins Of The Angels (4:51pm June 24, 2012):
Fun list and I'm not at all surprised.
Re: Honorable Rancher (6:10pm June 21, 2012):
Books are a form of escape that the reader "buys" into. As an avid reader, I always have a book or two with me in case there's spare time.
Re: Her Forbidden Hero (6:49pm June 19, 2012):
A man in uniform looks mighty nice and gets my attention.
Re: The Casanova Code (8:51pm June 18, 2012):
Crafty and a good premise. Looks like a fun and lively read. A sense of humor would be my top item.
Re: A Fatal Fleece (4:54pm June 17, 2012):
Looks like fun. I just picked up a few knitting stories this week.
Re: Grill Me, Baby (4:53pm June 17, 2012):
Burgers evoke memories of my dads vertical grill with grill baskets on the side to hold the burgers. S'more's over the campfire along with scary stories remind me of camp.
Re: No Ordinary Sheriff (4:51pm June 17, 2012):
Cowboy romances suit me fine.
Re: Undead And Unstable (8:53pm June 15, 2012):
Readers are what all authors desire. I love reading my favorite authors, what tips they have and what makes their craft work for them. Great cover.
Re: Kiale Dream (9:47pm June 14, 2012):
Of course the ending will be a romance mixed in with some trouble and shenanigans. Like the description of eyes.
Re: Cursed (9:45pm June 14, 2012):
Rituals have a place in history and tradition. You know more about what's expected behavior-wise.
Re: The Wild Wood Enquiry (9:44pm June 14, 2012):
The Round Ringford looks over fields and sometimes horses wait at the fence for fallen apples or an occasional Polo mint. I had fun finding the answer on Amazon skim-reading chapters in the book. Looks like a delightful cozy mystery and I want to see the setting.
Re: Soul Bound (4:12pm June 10, 2012):
Change is a redeeming quality I'm always looking for in characters I meet on the pages and in daily living. I like being surprised by how deep one reaches inside to understand and knnow the truth, since it finds a way out usually.
Re: Skeleton Women (4:09pm June 10, 2012):
I like reading about how women overcome hard circumstances and are resilient.
Re: Copycat Killing (4:07pm June 10, 2012):
I have likes, but not crushes.
Re: Chase Me (4:03pm June 10, 2012):
I like mystery heros who are underdogs and get the girl like Les Roberts books with Milo Jakovitch.
Re: Chosen Ones (4:00pm June 10, 2012):
I didn't know about the word dystopian until a few years ago. I think bending the usual patterns of human behavior and coming up with new ones to take the place is pretty interesting.
Re: Life After (3:59pm June 10, 2012):
What a way to start a book. Catastrophes get my attention fast and don't let it go.
Re: About Last Night (3:57pm June 10, 2012):
I like the clash of the classes and the reference to junk food to travel with. This looks like a read that will hold the readers' interest all the way through.
Re: Joy Ride (3:56pm June 10, 2012):
As another avid reader, I have a wide array of books with some read and many TBR (To Be Read). I remember reading by flashlight as a child, because lights had to be out. My toughest time was on a backpacking trip and my 8 books were weighing me down, so got distributed to everyone else's packs.
Re: Diamonds Are Truly Forever (6:41pm June 4, 2012):
Well, there are white lies where you're protecting others and then there's the green ones which ar real stretches of truth. I can bluff at cards, so is that the same as lying?
Re: Home For The Summer (6:40pm June 4, 2012):
We spent our summers on picnics and camping and telling scary ghost stories around the campfire.
Re: Finding Her Son (3:12pm June 2, 2012):
The perfect man is sweet, approachable and a little mysterious.
Re: Tangle Of Need (3:10pm June 2, 2012):
I've followed series to see what happens to the main characters next. I like the way the eyes on the cover are piercing and the swirl of artwork looks like fabric in a pattern I want to have.
Re: Seeker Of Shadows (3:06pm June 2, 2012):
I remember the bookmobile coming every summer to a nearby school and the books beakoning to be read. Only when mslead by the cover or the blurb, so I get upset and choose to skim the book rather than read for pleasure.
Re: Entice (3:03pm June 2, 2012):
The cover tickles my fancy fantasy and I want to leaf through the pages and see what hops out.
Re: Big Sky Country (3:02pm June 2, 2012):
Slade is more exciting because he has hidden talents that just gotta come out.
Re: Her Highness, The Traitor (3:00pm June 2, 2012):
sounds like a good read through the history reimagined with intrigue and asking more questions than it can possibly answer leaving the reader begging for more.
Re: More Than A Stranger (2:58pm June 2, 2012):
By all means go without regrets and see how it adds up outside your mind. See for yourself and show others the vision coming to life in all dimensions, moods, scenes and colors. Happy travels to you.
Re: All Spell Breaks Loose (12:25pm June 2, 2012):
Having an exit strategy reminds me of a hospital stay. As soon as you enter, they are looking for how long you'll stay, where you're going when you leave and what you need to take home.
Re: A Gentleman Says "I Do" (12:22pm June 2, 2012):
A rake and revenge sounds good to me.
Re: The Taming Of A Scottish Princess (12:20pm June 2, 2012):
I like a vulnerable hero who knows how to seduce and does it well.
Re: Where There's Smoke (8:53pm May 29, 2012):
I've gradually become a reader of stranger than fiction, paranormals and other imagination stretchers. The cover is hot.
Re: The Rebel Rancher (8:51pm May 29, 2012):
I love letters and have a thing for cowboys. I know your luck will change and keep writing.
Re: The Homesteader's Sweetheart (8:50pm May 29, 2012):
I can't remember any names for the books about single dads, but I've read several. It's fine to have a dad character who has redeeming qualities along with being single.
Re: Final Sail (9:43pm May 21, 2012):
Funny premise. I bet you pass the white glove and thoroughness test. Are you bonded?
Re: The Reason Is You (9:42pm May 21, 2012):
Teasing makes me smile and I can't wait to see this tale. I think teasing is one way to flirt without being too negative.
Re: A Wild Night's Bride (9:31pm May 18, 2012):
Yes please, bring on the debauchery and let more tales begin.
Re: Night Walker (9:29pm May 18, 2012):
An accent is intriguing and so is figuring out where someone is from according to their dialect. I remember on the Johnny Carson Tonight Show one guy could tell what county in England the person was from by the way they talked.
Re: The Courtesan's Lover (9:21pm May 18, 2012):
Sounds like an inviting read with Francesca F.
Re: Deadly Secrets, Loving Lies (9:19pm May 18, 2012):
I'm uncertain, but Hugh in the robot fighting movie looked pretty good.
Re: Sins of the Empress (5:41pm May 15, 2012):
I like historical fiction and uncovering characters which stay mostly true to voice. The tangents they go off on and the secrets revealed through close friends, allies and diaries makes for lively entertainment and opens topics for discussion.
Re: The Wedding Beat (5:39pm May 15, 2012):
I believe the best vows come from personalizing the standard vows and including the heartfelt parts and the ones you can agree to uphold. I like variations on the standard because they shake things up a bit.
Re: A Wild Night's Bride (5:37pm May 15, 2012):
The storyline has parts where you'll be nodding yes in agreement with the assessment in the conflict between a devil and the temptress. I like it.
Re: Pretty Amy (7:18pm May 11, 2012):
Looks like a good read and I love it when a few lines of music set the mood for the chapter, especially if I recognize it and can hum along reading. I think music makes you feel more.
Re: Under Fire (7:13pm May 11, 2012):
Nothing like good time and I applaud you for synchronicity.
The military makes sacrifices that only gets solemn attention it seems when there's trouble or when they die. I like a man in uniform and know they can have long distance relationships if they desire.
Re: Kiss Of The Goblin Prince (7:11pm May 11, 2012):
The cover has great lighting and a ripped body to go with it. Wings makes me think of ethereal spirits that can get around better than being stuck on the ground.
Re: Karma (6:54pm May 9, 2012):
I look for a bit of levity because laughing makes troubles samller and humor is fun.
Re: Hannah's Joy (8:43pm May 7, 2012):
Hannah's Joy sounds like it would explain some of the differences in religion between the Amish and Mennonites. I remember being on a trip to Washington DC for Cherry Blossom time and the teenage Mennonites that came along were a bit wild and enjoyed the beds with built-in vibrators.
Re: Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (8:19pm May 6, 2012):
Sure, I've had "tough" choices and almost wrote "touch" choices, because if I'm not touched in some way, the relationship is going nowhere. Confronting difficult events in the light of day makes them seem larger than normal, but at night, there's something about want to smoothe things out that gets to me. It sure is hard to rest when you or someone else is all riled up.
Re: Tempting the Best Man (8:13pm May 6, 2012):
Yep. Great title. Makes you want to pick up the book and leaf through it to find the good juicy parts.
Re: Darkest Caress (8:11pm May 6, 2012):
Connections we don't expect to find are fun discoveries in our family trees. A lot of times when studying and doing research, what's in the books turns out to have relevance to our own history and makes us richer in knowledge. As a lifelong learner, I devour background information and have grown to love history and the how-to-do-it with writing parts of stories.
Re: The Proposal (8:06pm May 6, 2012):
I'm glad you found an editor who lets you "talk" or your characters to talk amongst themselves. It must have been difficult to wait for the atmosphere to bend and the story lines to be all right with the world. I like the part of convalescence and anyone with family and friends knows how much support it takes to get better and get along with living.
Re: Royal Street (8:01pm May 6, 2012):
I don't know about dating a pirate, but he would sure bear watching. I'll bet he's coniving and used to getting his way, so it's a livley read on the high seas.
Re: Beauty and The Best (8:51pm April 30, 2012):
The only "embarrassing" moment is when my water broke early while pregnant and I christened the new carpeting at work.
Re: Beauty and The Best (8:49pm April 30, 2012):
Love the range of your characters and the awkward and fun situations that they attract somehow.
Re: Somebody To Love (9:40pm April 29, 2012):
Starting over is never easy, but each New Year's many make the point of trying to improve a bad habit. I never had to go someplace temporarily, but find strength and ability to clear my head going for long walks along trails. Being near water also has the power to rejuvenate whether natural like at the parks or manmade like the fountains at the mall.
Re: Homefront Hero (9:35pm April 29, 2012):
I like a reluctant hero because he holds something back and seems more human.
Re: A Lady's Revenge (9:33pm April 29, 2012):
Spies intrigue me with the double life they lead and the stuff they want to keep hidden away. It seems like there's always a reason for revenge and to make right a horrible wrong to a family no matter how they're related. Right now there's a TV show called Revenge which is trying to get back at a family and has a whole bunch of double crossers.
Re: Enraptured (9:29pm April 29, 2012):
My concentrations off track and I can't think of any, since I prefer to think of heroes of the male persuasion.
Re: The Vampire Shrink (9:24pm April 29, 2012):
Well, I haven't had so much of a ghostly experience, but can occasionally read people especially for their health situations. I think if you listen hard enough, there's plenty of extrasensory intuition to go around.
Re: Under His Protection (9:21pm April 29, 2012):
Alpha heroes are the best, but I do like a little bit of the softer side. Thanks for clearing up what a beta hero is, because I thought beta just meant a test to try out electronics to see if it works and to iron out the bugs. The only way they're too much to handle is if they won't ever listen in books and in real life.
Re: Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire (4:45pm April 22, 2012):
I think the next gen in romance will be where the woman has a strong job and the man has to relocate and get a new job to follow his woman.
Re: No Dress Required (3:26pm April 21, 2012):
I like both ways connected and stand by itself and mostly I just love to read. Love the quote with ..."Do you need some service, Ma'am?"
Re: Clobbered By Camembert (7:13pm April 20, 2012):
I once attended a conference at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas and was amazed at the bathrooms which had a painting above every toilet and had gold fixtures. The ironic part was a room for Gamblers Anonymous right in the hotel, so pretty close to the action, right? A lively discussion at our table had the others jealous since we kept cracking up over talk about parties with romance toys. Going back to your conference, it helps to have a calendar with the hours so you know which panels overlap and can sometimes go between them.
Re: Untouched (7:07pm April 20, 2012):
3,6,8,10 get my vote and you had me laughing right away. I like the part about reading people and checking for BS.
Re: One Month To Become A Mum (9:27pm April 19, 2012):
I'm not used to seeing medical romances as I see more medical thrillers. However medical romances are fine and I see they make great TV shows.
Re: The Zen Man (3:31pm April 17, 2012):
Columbo always makes me laugh asking, "I have one more question," before he leaves the room. Also Milan Jocevick in Les Roberts 13 mysteries as a Polish PI who always gets backed into trouble and almost runs out of money consistently.
Re: The Fallen Woman of Vil?gos (6:56pm April 16, 2012):
Well, more than one person can resonate with you and you feel like you've always known them. It doesn't happen too often, but when it does, everything seems to click in place and there are less disagreements.
Re: A Plain Death (4:37pm April 15, 2012):
I believe that when under pressure, the brain kicks into action and you're the most creative because there's nothing else you can truly depend on. I'm glad you had the urge to get on paper those thoughts and truned them into a gripping story.
Re: Duty And Desire (4:35pm April 15, 2012):
I like the idea of coincidence and seeing a setting in real life, so mirroring real life intrigues me. Of course, so does a world that has a smidgen of possibility from some authors who stretch the imagination.
Re: Cursed (7:09pm April 13, 2012):
I like how you stayed on your plan to be a writer and kept writing down scenes your characters played. Looks like a good read and I sure like Romance.
Re: The Wolf Who Loved Me (7:07pm April 12, 2012):
Secrets can wear you out if there's too many and you keep running into people who would change their mind if they only knew. I'm used to keeping secrets as a member of the healthcare field. In fact, people tell me things they've never told anyone before since my ears are ready to listen especially if they want to unload an earfull. This story sounds juicy and I like hearing about tagteams and anthologies, too.
Re: Mariana (7:02pm April 12, 2012):
To rework is fine as long as you know there's another version out there which may be tricky if you are in a book club discussion. It helps to know which version is in use.
Re: Illicit Intuitions (8:50pm April 10, 2012):
I'm not on pinterest, but have done boards on sites where you gather fashions and lipstick and nailpolish for a complete look like on Polyvore.com
My favorite kind of day includes going on a walk and having something decadent to eat because of working off the calories beforehand (at least that's what I tell myself).
Re: The Devil and Miss Jones (8:34pm April 9, 2012):
The title's pretty sassy and I look at that part first, then the cover, followed by the inner blurbs. Finally I peek in the middle of the story and see if it's got some strength. If it passes the tests, I've got a new book for my TBR (To Be Read) pile.
Re: One Hot Cowboy Wedding (8:32pm April 9, 2012):
You got me at cowboy and all the rest is just a big rodeo where someone's going to fall hard on their bum and fall for the girl without fail.
Re: Trouble Me (8:30pm April 9, 2012):
Sounds pretty lively. The title is intriguing because it can be taken both ways: like the girl is trouble and needs to bother him or the guy wants to be bothered.
Re: Vigilare (5:24pm April 7, 2012):
I like strong characters, so a heroine can be tough or not.
Re: Lessons After Dark (8:17pm April 6, 2012):
Love the logic in curses not applying to you since you already graduated college. Looks like a good read with magic and all.
Re: Wasteland (6:45pm April 5, 2012):
Thanks for the tip on where you come up with stories. I find that mine happen when it's difficult to write down, so I try to keep a few key phrases in mind until I get to paper for writing it down. Your story sounds like it's got a whole setting with a lot going on.
Re: Wedded In Scandal (8:53pm April 4, 2012):
Sounds realistic with all the nerves and delights going on at prom. I hope to get my hands on this one soon.
Re: Woodrose Mountain (8:51pm April 4, 2012):
It sounds like what's in the news nowadays. I like stories where there's conflict and bouncing back to a new kind of daily living. Looks to be a good read with a big hook at the beginning that gets the reader's attention.
Re: Lessons in Loving A Laird (4:53pm April 1, 2012):
Like the list. Don't have facebook.
Re: A Light On The Veranda (4:09pm March 31, 2012):
Setting gives the structure on which the scenes play our. It helps set the history in the readers mind by offering anchors to hang onto.
Re: True Highland Spirit (4:08pm March 31, 2012):
I like my main characters to be flawed and to struggle with resolving problems that come up. I also love the conversations overheard, definitely wanting to be heard and those you keep silent in your head. A good accent like Irish or Scottish helps, too.
Re: In Search of Lucy (4:05pm March 31, 2012):
Car rides means you have a captive audience. Being in close proximity may yield conversations you wouldn't otherwise have to "fill the air" and the open expanse of time.
Re: Wildest Dreams (6:27pm March 29, 2012):
Stories which have Native American Indians offer a glimpse into a way of life I'd like to get to know better. I like learning about their customs and traditions, the medicine man and how natural cures are passed down. Great cover depicting the West and the setting where conflicts may be settled and love traces a trail of wanting to return to the old days.
Re: The Chase (6:23pm March 29, 2012):
Yep. I love Castle, too, and the predicaments they get into and the great storylines. The characters are well developed and I can't wait to learn more about them in my favorite TV show and in books that are in the mysterious/thriller line.
Re: Sanctuary Cove (6:21pm March 29, 2012):
I like small town settings where the people know each other inside and out. Looks like a good read.
Re: Vicki's Key (8:50pm March 27, 2012):
Love the conversation and it's one I've had before. Celtic people, talk and symbols remind me of a retreat I went on where we made runes from clay and looked at books on celtic knots. I enjoy reading books with characters that have a brogue for their language is uplifting and exotically foreign.
Re: The Wings Of Morning (8:40pm March 26, 2012):
Amish books hold my interest, because I've been through a few towns where they reside. Also I know in small towns, the people at auctions tend to let things go cheaper for the Amish because of being neighborly and showing concern for hardworkers.
Re: Assassins In Love (5:15pm March 24, 2012):
I like settings which are well rounded, so as long as the romance is sprinkled throughout, you've got me.
Re: Against The Night (8:14pm March 23, 2012):
Gone With The Wind and Meet Me In St. Loise are two of my favorites of movies coming from books.
Re: The Needle In The Blood (7:53pm March 23, 2012):
There's a Tapestry Museum in Washington D.C. that has many fabric pieces on display rich in history. I like reading the descriptions and coming up with a few of my own. There's a lot of symbols and traditions in tapestry which reflects the time is was made, the fabrics available and the functionality of the piece.
Re: A Seal In Wolf's Clothing (7:48pm March 23, 2012):
You turn up the heat with your covers and titles.
Re: Neil's Fire (7:47pm March 23, 2012):
Tell me about yourself is another buzz phrase that's definitely overused. I prefer to reveal and share a bit at a time in conversation rather than the 20 questions approach.
Re: Oracle's Moon (7:44pm March 23, 2012):
My writing process is to always have a notebook with me for random thoughts and phrases that I find clever. Then I expand on the notes unless writing while stopped at a light. I find that being in the car or reading the classics yields more thoughts and moods I want to capture.
Re: Sticks and Stones (7:35pm March 23, 2012):
I think the team concept would be tricky and could work as long as each one lifted their part. It seems a mammoth job to organize and come to some agreements. I know a few authors who like to write anthologies with an underlying theme.
Re: The Underside Of Joy (7:32pm March 23, 2012):
Love your getaway cabin in the woods as a quiet place to write and meditate.
Re: Cassie's Grand Plan (7:31pm March 23, 2012):
I have a neighborly town which has block parties and trails for bikes and walkers. The parks are gems of land saved by relatives from being developed into a freeway years ago. You can walk a lot here.
Re: Sex, Lies and Contracts (3:07pm March 23, 2012):
I like heros that get into predicaments and have to utilize their intuitive side to resolve the issues.
Re: Under The Covers (9:43pm March 15, 2012):
With and empty nest, I'm writing more and churning out poems at 2 poetry workshops monthly. I find that friends and hobbies take up the slack along with phone calls for health and lending a good listen.
Re: Rule Of Three (9:35pm March 15, 2012):
I think with three there would be more posturing and the alpha male instinct would always be trying to compete. I think there would be battles and incivility towards each other sparking debates on overdrive.
Re: His Duty to Protect (9:32pm March 15, 2012):
Great cover background and foreground. I do like a man in uniform especially when off duty.
Re: Secret Confessions of Lady H ? Book 1 (9:30pm March 15, 2012):
I like serial books and getting a hint of the book in a daily blog is what I receive from DearReader.com. Keeping the characters straight is helped by being able to go back and read the previous entry or a short synopsis of the scene.
Re: Hellsbane (9:26pm March 15, 2012):
The radio is on NPR in the car and I mix it up a bit with oldies and CD's. Multitasking is the key to parenting, but for concentrating on studying, it seems from studies that doesn't keep you focused.
Re: The Forbidden Claim (8:53pm March 12, 2012):
I need a few extra minutes in order to be on time. It helps to not wear a watch, too, because it's a race to get to places on time.
Re: Sketch a Falling Star (8:52pm March 12, 2012):
It's amazing how you get attached to characters while writing and they invade your daily life at the least expected times. I keep a notebook handy for these creative moments. I guess you get in the "zone".
Re: Texas Pride (9:43pm March 8, 2012):
Reading romance hasn't changed any relationship of mine, but has given me ideas and offered situations that I could fancy.
Re: Fever (5:05pm March 7, 2012):
He looks at you and says, "OK".
She stares at him and waits for more response which rarely happens.
He means it as a compliment for everything, dinner, looks, calendar, whatever.
She just waits for what he's supposed to intuitively know like a mind-reader and gets upset when the telepathy isn't working then.
Re: Sweet Enemy (3:20pm March 6, 2012):
Your book and characters sound like an aphrodisiac.
Re: Dire Needs (2:42pm March 5, 2012):
I like both, but really love folowing characters in series.
Re: Obsidian (1:21pm March 3, 2012):
Playful and sweet what a great combo for a "storybook" cover.
Re: Racing The Devil (1:20pm March 3, 2012):
You do have a strong protagonist as a main character and he seems halfway human with multiple dimensions.
Re: The Rodeo Man's Daughter (5:49pm March 1, 2012):
Reunions are filled with memories and some good even. It's fun to contrast what was with what is now. It would be great to be a few pounds lighter and not think I'm heavy.
Re: Miss Hillary Schools a Scoundrel (5:47pm February 29, 2012):
Did kids get kicked out of school back then or were they expected to not interact or ask questions? I know kids nowadays can get "feisty and testy." I wonder what punishments besides writing on a tablet the teacher handed out.
Re: A Sliver Of Shadow (5:44pm February 29, 2012):
I think instant love and falling in love are the same thing. There's this glint in the eyes and smile creasing the lips that is a surefire sign of interst and more.
Re: Clobbered By Camembert (4:27pm February 26, 2012):
Looks delightful and because it's words in a story, maybe not so fattening yet mouth-watering. I love books where food is interwoven as an integral part of the story. Kudos.
Re: Donovan's Bed (4:25pm February 26, 2012):
You made me laugh with the details of the newspaper blab. It's got to be a funny story to read with lines like that to follow.
Re: The Legacy Of Eden (5:21pm February 25, 2012):
Imagination gives us the opportunity to broaden horizons and learn something new to us that's different than our usual world.
Re: The Rogue Pirate's Bride (5:19pm February 25, 2012):
I read romance because it's fun and lively and couldn't we all use a little romance in our everyday lives? I like the drama and intrigue in your stories.
Re: Courting His Favorite Nurse (6:56pm February 22, 2012):
I've not been on a hot air balloon ride, but have seen them at festivals and in the air they are quite colorful. I know they have a truck chasing them to a pre-arranged landing spot if their guesstimates are good enough. It's up in the air the exact location and depends on weather conditions in the winds aloft, the skill of the navigator and GPS for locating and pinpointing.
Re: King of Darkness (6:52pm February 22, 2012):
Vampire books, movies and TV shows are awfully popular nowadays. I prefer caffeine of the green tea sort or chocolate.
Re: The Night Is Mine (1:52pm February 16, 2012):
I've had many moments, but the most telling of all was at the age of 8 drew a picture of what I wanted to be when I grew up. Yep, I became a nurse and am always helping people with health questions and practice alternative medicine with Therapeutic Touch and Reiki.
Re: Ride With Me (5:43pm February 15, 2012):
Exotic foods are nature's aphrodisiacs and when tryng out a new restaurant tend to pick something new on the menu. I do have a fave place and order my usual when there.
Re: Secrets of the Knight (5:41pm February 15, 2012):
I like romance with a touch of food like Louisa Edwards book, I'm All Steamy. Food and books go well together.
Re: The One (5:39pm February 15, 2012):
I think it's tough to have all that reality hyped up when most women just want to understand what's going on in their own life better.
Re: A Fitting End (5:07pm February 11, 2012):
My hook would be a ghost or a secret passage or drawer that has kin hunting for it. I think a reading of a will would also start things off with a fight.
Re: A Scandalous Countess (5:05pm February 11, 2012):
I also started with Georgette Heyer and then progressed on. Thanks for the period history lesson and keep writing books I want to read. I love learning about the customs of the times and those who break with tradition.
Re: Stud (5:58pm February 8, 2012):
Movies tend to only hit the highlights of the book and then sensationalize others. I think they call it taking liberties which sounds more like a navy term.
Re: Darkest Highlander (8:47pm February 7, 2012):
Magic puts a twist that's more interesting with HEA (Happily Ever After). It throws a touch of whimsey and begs you to leave the real world and talk a walk on the wild side.
Re: The Duchess Diaries (8:43pm February 7, 2012):
Love how the situation changes and not for the better. You do know exactly how to tantalize your readers.
Re: Far from Here (5:20pm February 4, 2012):
One of my kids had a twin who tended to speak for her, so she turned to art to express herself. Her art is whimsical.
I write poetry and have been known to pursue needlearts.
Re: The Stubborn Dead (6:17pm February 3, 2012):
Mostly I collect books and memories of sunsets since the setting sun takes up no room.
Re: Touch Me (6:15pm February 3, 2012):
My favorite theme in romance has food interwoven throughout and possibly recipes to keep the comforting feelings going. My hero tends to have a few bad habits offset by being nice at intervals.
Re: Chosen By Sin (6:12pm February 3, 2012):
I like romantic suspense especially when food plays a big role.
Re: One Book In The Grave (6:10pm February 3, 2012):
I visit author's websites to learn more about their writing process, tips, recipes, FAQ, blog, but mainly for the books.
Contests where you have to answer questions by reading the website and excerpts are fun.
Re: Alpha Instinct (6:07pm February 3, 2012):
romance is fine and I like readiong about world's that are inhabited by creatures not completely of this world.
Re: The Lord Of Illusion (6:05pm February 3, 2012):
Healing is what I try to do in my everyday life with chance encounters. Being connected or grounded to earth helps, too. To get refreshed and refueled,I go to places with running water like lakes, brooks, streams and even the mall with fountains.
Re: Double Dare (4:54pm January 29, 2012):
I like a hard-working hero who is mighty sexy.
Re: Rosi's Castle (4:53pm January 29, 2012):
Great thoughts can stand repeating like "No man is an island". Liked reading your take on community and sharing.
Re: Double Dare (8:53pm January 27, 2012):
Lumberjacks, firemen and air force men are looking good in uniform or not.
Re: Fever (8:41pm January 25, 2012):
Great interview with a savvy writer. Goal setting is tricky for me because I am too high. But breaking it down into small chunks is more doable and halfway achievable. It must be nice to cross tasks off your lists.
Re: Amazon Heat (7:23pm January 24, 2012):
Novellas remind me of the stories in the Reader's Digest - easy to read and palatable.
Re: Falling For The Fireman (7:22pm January 24, 2012):
Fireman romances have all the right ingredients and extra heat and heroics. My dad was a fireman and had his share of rescues and saving people from drowning as a lifeguard.
Re: Banshee Charmer (4:53pm January 22, 2012):
A sense of humor is pretty good to offset the toughness of the hero.
Re: Dreamers (1:31pm January 21, 2012):
Most writers are dreamers with a healthy imagination. I'm a kind person willing to give a listen to hear what the others have to say. My friends call me an old soul.
Re: The Fallen Queen (5:06pm January 20, 2012):
Fallen angels are more intriguing.
Re: Sex, Lies and Surveillance (3:06pm January 19, 2012):
My favorite spy is one who is pretty sneaky while looking good and unassuming.
Re: Lure of Song and Magic (3:05pm January 19, 2012):
I believe in some sort of magic and when in a room of healers can feel the power of intention and trust the honesty in their minions.
Re: Dylan (8:16pm January 17, 2012):
Yep. I like cowboys in stories and in person. I dated a guy who was into barrel racing (going with a pony around a barrel) and watched several polo matches. Thanks for writing about a cowboy I want to meet.
Re: Scrumptious (8:13pm January 17, 2012):
At the age of 8 (third grade) I drew a picture of a nurse as what I wanted to be when I grew up. First Aid in Girl Scouts and being accepted into nursing school got me on the path to my dream.
Re: Made For Marriage (8:10pm January 17, 2012):
Avoiding the slush pile entails knowing what genre your agent and publisher dwells in. It also needs to be written with an eye to editing.
Re: Sins Of The Highlander (6:56pm January 13, 2012):
Flaws, humor and and unwillingness to makeup for awhile are all important to me in a hero. I do like kilts on men, women and children.
Re: Risking Trust (6:55pm January 13, 2012):
Mysteries, thrillers, suspense and romance get me in the zone. Especially books by Joseph Finder and Louisa Edwards.
Re: Hushed (4:57pm January 11, 2012):
The first time I heard about word goals was with museconference and the NaNoWriMo (November writing contest where you write a novel in one month). The other time was my first Writers Group where the guy sitting next to me had 10,000 words while I had 2 paragraphs, the beginnings of 2 stories. I started to sweat, but a fellow colleague asked me, "Yeah 10,000 words, but are they any good?" My goal is to made time to write weekly.
Re: The Viking's Sacrifice (4:51pm January 11, 2012):
I think the reason you had so much trouble picking a name for your hero is that one is supposed to live up to a name. Common ones don't get me excited unless they're whispered in a love scene.
Re: Pretty Persuasion (4:49pm January 11, 2012):
I don't rate stories, but do recommend ones I like and do not recommend those which leave me in the cold.
Re: Bride By Mistake (4:47pm January 11, 2012):
An arranged marriage seems without so much merit nowadays at least in this culture. MofC stories however ar fun to read and follow the blodlines and the money.
Re: The More the Terrier (2:59pm January 7, 2012):
I have high hopes for 2012 across a lot of fields. Family and friends are my focus for support in my causes and passions.
Re: Power Play (2:40pm January 7, 2012):
Attraction is all about balance and if someone can complete your sentences with an regularity. Thanks for your tips and writing good books that whet the appetite for more juicy tidbits.
Re: Sweet Reward (4:28pm January 5, 2012):
Finding the way out of rough times is what we all do in real life. Thanks for a lively story with characters I can care about.
Re: A Promise Of Safekeeping (4:26pm January 5, 2012):
Books right now in the romance or mystery persuasions.
Re: Demon Crossings (4:26pm January 5, 2012):
A PI that's a go-between worlds, now that's original.
Re: The Duke is Mine (1:18pm January 4, 2012):
I like Les Roberts series of mysteries with a gumshoe detective who goes through rich settings while solving crimes and dipping in romance.
Re: A Demon Does It Better (1:16pm January 4, 2012):
I certainly would consider an animal, yet a friendly one would be best for companionship and listening. Native American Indians consider animals as their kindred spirits and are mindful of their habitat and treatment.
Re: Hot Rain (1:14pm January 4, 2012):
One of my twins met her current squeeze via the internet. It's one way of using technology to your advantage and the wave of the future as more people get on board. I've been thinking about it for myself and am cautiously optimistic.
Re: The Angel Of Blythe Hall (7:48pm December 30, 2011):
Singing around the piano is one of my favorite highlights for the holidays and times when someone else plays.
Re: The Nine Lives Of Christmas (1:52pm December 29, 2011):
I'm catching up on my TBR (To Be Read) stack and eyeing some of my favorite decorating books and magazines.
Re: Finding Felicity (1:50pm December 29, 2011):
Slowing down makes me reflect on how my friends and family support me and my endeavors. Around the holidays and when out on the trails of many parks, I feel blessed and refueled ready to reface the world.
Re: Lover's Leap (1:40pm December 29, 2011):
Healing is romantic and a place to go to soothe and repair past hurts is a wonderful setting for a story.
Re: Mozart's Last Aria (2:57pm December 27, 2011):
Thanks for giving a new way of seeing Mozart in his flaws and successes.
Re: The Last Slayer (2:56pm December 27, 2011):
Secondary characters offer a way to think out loud and sound off ideas of the main characters before acting on them. A fool keeps everything to himself and fools himself into believing his thoughts are the only ones available.
Re: Wedded In Scandal (12:50pm December 22, 2011):
I see the connection in your routine and how you walked backwards through your morning to get to it. You made me laugh as I recognized my habits are ingrained, too.
Re: Come Back To Me (4:48pm December 21, 2011):
While taking a creative writing course, I penned an acrostic poem. The first letter in each line was bold and spelled out the acrostic. It's hard to match the word to the specified letter to make sense with each line.
Re: Lady Seductress's Ball (5:03pm December 19, 2011):
I made cookies this week using a box of lemon cake mix, grated lemon peel, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Drop by rounded teaspoon onto a cookie sheet and top each with a pecan. They smell heavenly when baking and people will think you've fussed. Bake at 350 for 8 minutes. Keep a close watch on them. Take them out when they are pale yellow and don't appear done yet, because I had an extra crispy cookie at 9 minutes. Have fun with these Lemon Pecan Cookies.
Re: Sleight Of Paw (4:19pm December 18, 2011):
Well, I prefer to have pictures taken only with warning since my glasses are Transistions and if in bright sunlight, they are tinted dark. Plus it gives me a chance to turn sideways and strike a pose. I agree that action shots are usually the best, but you do look good by that fence where your lower body remains a mystery. Just remembered for sitting at dinner what's on the top half should be where the attention goes other than watching faces to see if they get your drift.
Re: A Christmas Journey Home (5:22pm December 17, 2011):
I find that voracious readers make the best writers, since they've digested so many words and tend to venture into new territory.
Re: How To Worship A Goddess (5:15pm December 17, 2011):
My two sons played youth hockey and still have all their parts and looked like Michelin men or linebackers with the amount of safety equipment worn. We have plenty of books on hockey players and one had a quote that he travelled light and only packed a toothbrush and no suitcase. I'd like to get my hands on your story and see another version of hockey.
Re: The King's Mistress (5:03pm December 17, 2011):
I love the tradition of mistletoe and other remembrances of holidays from years gone by. Positioning an unsuspecting person under mistletoe is kindof funny to watch both the nudging and the outcome. Love the amount of historical information on your website and of course the Scottish brogue and unique clothing.
Re: Wild Thing (1:40pm December 10, 2011):
Opposites attract pretty much because of the other person being able to do and think about doing things you can't. Unpredictablity occurs because opposites have different intentions and motivations for the actions they pursue.
Re: The Cowboy's Pride (1:37pm December 10, 2011):
Thanks for the list. Babies add more time to get ready for going outside of home. They also add more reality to the lifestyle of the characters in the story.
Re: Shield of Fire (1:34pm December 10, 2011):
Books come to mind in a sport or theme with cars or computer games. My boys who are older now still love those winter hats with the snow flaps or nordic ones.
Re: Mistletoe and Margaritas (1:31pm December 10, 2011):
Give me the change of seasons. I can not imagine not having the senses missing out on leaves, snow, spring bulbs and the 4 seasons in general.
Re: Dreaming Of The Wolf (8:18pm December 8, 2011):
Like the simplicity of the "Throw-Together Meal". Nope, wouldn't eat with a werewolf or any kind of wolf. Wolf Run at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is as close as I want to get to a pack of timberwolves. Their coloring is so rugged with shades of gray, silver and dusky brown.
Re: Hellsbane (8:52pm December 7, 2011):
I combine various traditions and like the carols and the cookies.
Re: Hushed (8:51pm December 7, 2011):
I pine for the best type of romance, the one where you fall deep and fast for the grin covering the face and the sense of humor accompanying it.
Re: Acquainted with the Night (2:35pm December 4, 2011):
Those scientific facts must be in your blood. Your research seems like you had a fine time weaving genetics into the story. I love medical mysteries so thanks for keeping a pulse on the genre.
Re: Busted in Bollywood (2:27pm December 4, 2011):
My favorite finger food is guacamole or homemade salsa to use as dips for tortilla chips. My stomach's growling and I'm going to make your Aloo Tikki recipe. I'l bet the story is spicy, too.
Re: Beyond The Darkness (2:22pm December 4, 2011):
It's amazing who wants to appear in stories as you write them I find that characters appear because you need to bounce ideas off someone else who has a different view. Having everything perfect and all lined up doesn't make for much contrast so the flaws and situations make the story and sometimes you can predict how it will end good or bad.
Re: Hot Zone (8:53pm December 2, 2011):
Family and friends are the best wishes even outside of the holiday season for no one knows you better. And the care and sharing are somthing that warms the heart.
Re: Hunter Of Shadows (8:51pm December 2, 2011):
Sure I do love secrets and good surprises. This looks almost too hot to handle.
Re: She Can Run (7:48pm November 29, 2011):
Romance with a little mystery gets me to turn the pages faster because I want to see how it turns out. Mixing genres is something that's happening more now and that's fine to have a book straddle more than one fence.
Re: Miss Darcy Falls in Love (6:14pm November 28, 2011):
You paint a good picture with words. I can see the differences in characters with your sketches and how they may react in scenes. Whenever authors have descriptions of the players in the front of the book, I thank them for helping me keep everything straighter plus I can refer back to the list, if need be.
Re: Learning To Trust (3:46pm November 27, 2011):
I agree that flaws make more interesting characters. Your settings sound intriguing, too.
Re: A Crimson Warning (4:20pm November 26, 2011):
I'm thankful for a lot of shelves holding my collection of books. And for family and friends who support and love me and I love them back.
Re: Waking Up Dead (4:18pm November 26, 2011):
Dr. Norman Cousins has a book, The Anatomy of an Illness, in which he laughed his way to health and moved beyond a wheelchair. I do know the power of laughs and enjoy watching funny movies especially Lucille Ball and the convey belt at the candy factory. I'm glad you're on the mend.
Re: The Spy Who Left Me (8:19pm November 25, 2011):
I'm going to hit my TBR (To Be Read) books and pick a mystery and a romance to start. Had Thanksgiving at Mom's and brought the veggies X 3.
Re: Under The Moon (4:53pm November 21, 2011):
Pets make stories richer and more human. I love the way they interpret changes in routine and have premonitions that warn of impending danger. I love to see then antics they get in and how they find ways to escape.
Re: White Dawn (4:45pm November 21, 2011):
I discovered from my kids that I like to not have to wait for people, but sometimes there's no hurrying to be had that works. Being prepared for most emergencies is another since I'm sometimes the only medical person available on the sidelines. It's almost a given how savvy kids are with websites and navigating around tech products. They don't seem to hesitate to pick up the newest technology and make it personalized the way they like.
Re: The Return Of The Stranger (4:52pm November 20, 2011):
Looking at a classic in a new way appeals to me and many other readers. I like the brooding dark handsome hero along with the lady who gets stronger in her confidence over a period of time and experiences.
Re: Knight of Runes (8:43pm November 16, 2011):
Time travel and runes what a fascinating premise. I love that it's in Mesopotamia which is also a small town in Ohio.
Re: Because Of You (8:41pm November 16, 2011):
India sounds so exotic and a war story is like having the pulse of the world right in your hand. It looks like an intriguing read.
Re: Until There Was You (8:38pm November 16, 2011):
Sweet story of second chance going better than expected. Thanks for showing all aspects of prom for those who go and those who pine for what they didn't get.
Re: The Highlander's Heart (8:36pm November 16, 2011):
I guess you know how to create the tortured hero and I do love a highland fling.
Re: Shadowlander (4:52pm November 13, 2011):
Leslie Carron in Gigi has always been a favorite of mine with her perkiness and French accent.
Re: Guardian Agent (4:51pm November 13, 2011):
Novellas are fine as long as they're less expensive than a full-size novel. I don't have an e-reader, so a serial novella with weekly or daily updates would be fun along with a scavenger hunt.
Re: Genie Knows Best (3:24pm November 10, 2011):
Well, it would be nice to meet a Genie kindof like having your way all the time is fine by me. It's a good fantasy and sounds like your book would be fun all the way.
Re: The Last Rising (3:46pm November 9, 2011):
The aunt in Anne of Green Gables was a tough and cold lady who softened over time caring and raising a strong-willed teen girl who amongst other scenes dyed her young hair green and grew up to become the spunk that she loved very much indeed.
Re: Risking Trust (3:42pm November 9, 2011):
Perfection leaves something to be desired since it's just too perfect. I like a few flaws in my characters since they are more human, believable and can use their motivations, beliefs and values to choose which path to saunter on.
Re: Tall, Dark And Cowboy (12:02pm November 8, 2011):
I don't know about starting over, but each day seems to start out all right and then something saboutages my plan. Sometimes it's me.
Re: Embrace The Highland Warrior (3:13pm November 6, 2011):
Noises at night seem to be worse than in the day. As the dark seeps in, my sense of freedom vanishes while listening carefully to mysterious clicks, squeaks and thuds as the bewitching hours pass.
Re: The Virtuoso (3:08pm November 6, 2011):
Music lessons can have a benfit no one sees while practicing the scales and skills of the art. Having an appreciation for music engages the senses in a evocative game which can move to a better mood.
Re: North of Need (3:04pm November 6, 2011):
The Greek God as a hero strikes me as one of strength and mystery. Can he possibly live up to all those myths?
Re: Engaged in Sin (2:41pm November 5, 2011):
Love the sass in the title and the tongues which wag because of the suggestion. Hope your story lives up to all the implications as I'm under no illusion that you have what it takes.
Re: Liver Let Die (2:39pm November 5, 2011):
Names mean a lot and usually help me envison a part of the characters' personalities. It's not hard to live up to a name like Red.
Re: Always a Temptress (8:49pm November 4, 2011):
Les Roberts mysteries are my favorites since a lot of them are about the nearby Ohio cities and involve a Slovenian detective.
Re: Darn Good Cowboy Christmas (8:47pm November 4, 2011):
I'd like to whisper I've been a good girl. I like the old -fashioned song, Santa Baby, which just about covers everything necessary to live in style.
Re: A Maverick For Christmas (5:02pm October 31, 2011):
Yep, my friends have a way of nudging me in the right direction when my whine grows old. They're there for the happy times, too.
Re: Romancing The Countess (4:57pm October 31, 2011):
A newborn and a book, you do have it together getting things done. It still makes me laugh when people call and ask if I was busy after twins.
Re: Radiant Desire (4:54pm October 31, 2011):
Of course Brad is an Alpha male, yet he met his match with a strong lioness.
Re: Enchanted Destiny (4:53pm October 31, 2011):
Like the exotic lady with the multipatterned skirt swirling on your cover.
Re: His Last Duchess (8:37pm October 27, 2011):
What a neat companion for your every mood in writing is the dog. It must keep you motivated to exercise between pages.
Re: Ecstasy Untamed (1:10pm October 26, 2011):
I tend to avoid horror movies, but thrillers are OK as long as I can turn away at the real scary parts or look between fingers on my covered eyes. There is an increase in scary movies now that Halloween is near so I guess it goes with the territory.
Re: If You Hear Her (2:32pm October 25, 2011):
I watched a group of Zombies dancing on Saturday and then they went biking around the block a few times. It stopped traffic and was well-organized. Nobody screamed even though the make-up was creepy. Your trilogy sounds like it has a lot of action and is tempting.
Re: Entice Me (2:29pm October 25, 2011):
I've had a few relatives find "Their Match" on match.com, but have not taken the plunge myself. Luck and circulating have a lot more to do with my patterns.
Re: Flawless (2:38pm October 23, 2011):
Bad boys can be redeemed, but they have to want it also.
Re: Dire Threads (2:36pm October 23, 2011):
We went as the usual ghosts, hobos, baseball players. One year my sister was sick, so my Dad donned her small Little Red Riding Hood Cape and went Trick or Treating for her. I think he was the tallest kid and the biggest one out there.
Re: Haunting Embrace (2:34pm October 23, 2011):
I like heroes that are strong and it's fun to watch them go back in time, too.
Re: The Comforts Of Home (6:21pm October 21, 2011):
Love the teaser and the town of Harmony.
Re: Utterly Charming (12:44pm October 19, 2011):
I find it a stretch to believe lawyers make the best romantic heroines, but they do have a lot to argue about, so I guess it's true. My favorite fairy tale is Cinderella and the catty relationship between the sisters.
Re: Attracted to Fire (12:38pm October 19, 2011):
The West, spicy food and a bunch of hunks in a book - I want to come to that ranch.
Re: Queeen of the Sylphs (6:57pm October 14, 2011):
Most villains have qualities that I despise. In fact, they delve into the 3 D's: Disappointed, Disgusted and Dismayed -more often than not.
Re: The Rose Garden (8:52pm October 12, 2011):
A supporting cast makes all the difference so the reader knows more about feelings and the main characters have something to "sound out" their bright and not-so-bright ideas and plans with.
Re: Unleashed (8:41pm October 11, 2011):
Something in the cat family gets my vote. I love how they slink around and plan for play or prey.
Re: Chosen By Fate (1:49pm October 9, 2011):
I like books that stick to one genre and ones that overlap. Romance always makes them sweeten the pace.
Re: The Goblin King (5:50pm October 7, 2011):
Mostly I'm inspired by overheard conversations, so you need to watch your words around me, because I may hold onto them for awhile and fit them in dialogue between characters.
Re: Wilder (5:48pm October 7, 2011):
A certified hunter, what will you think of next. At one time, I thought certified meant crazy, but now I know that it means you've tested and taken extra courses to be proficient in your field.
Re: Baer Truth (3:48pm October 5, 2011):
I like ranches and cowboys/cowgirls where it's more of a Dude or Dudette ranch. There just seems to be plenty of wide open spaces and the hay which goes with farming and I love when cityfolk become countrified.
Re: Roommates (3:45pm October 5, 2011):
I like the first name Broderick and Merrit, but Merrit could be one of those names that's either female or male.
Re: Chaos Tryst (4:23pm October 2, 2011):
My "bad" date was the day of 3 dates. One went off fine. But number 2 met number 3 at the door, since one liked being early (didn't know). It was all rather confusing.
Re: Studenstein (6:27pm September 30, 2011):
Simplicity I can understand. You have complicated characters that are multi-dimensional.
Re: The Norse King's Daughter (6:01pm September 29, 2011):
I always have several books in my TBR pile, so don't get into any slumps. In fact, books are in all my rooms and I take one with me just in case there's a few moments to read.
Re: The Seduction of Sophie Seacrest (7:50pm September 26, 2011):
William Hurt is my favorite brooding hero along with the gentlemen in The Englishman.
Re: Jennifer's Garden (3:34pm September 25, 2011):
Wow. You touch on important concepts that are universally felt by women in their "middle" years.
Re: Secrets Of The Wolves (3:33pm September 25, 2011):
I like reading about wolves, their heirarchy or order in packs and the way they manage their territory.
Re: Once Upon A Groom (4:47pm September 22, 2011):
Yes, the princess mode is pretty strong for girls unless they're into tomboy stuff. I made a princess cake for my girls that had blue frosting, turrets make from sugar cones and chocolate kisses for decoration. Their lips and tongue turned blue and six months later, we were still cleaning up the confetti from a sweeping game with feather dusters.
Re: Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star (3:23pm September 21, 2011):
I love when music is incorporated into writing or a TV series. I like learning about the roots of the music that influenced that period in time or your selections.
Re: Murder By Mocha (5:34pm September 20, 2011):
Love the recipes on your website and that they're easy. I always reach for chocolate.
Re: The Rake And The Recluse (3:37pm September 18, 2011):
Well you do let the imagination run wild and those pics are artful entertaining.
Re: The Last Rising (1:46pm September 17, 2011):
Heavy breathing on the neck is nice and can lead up to more intense reactions.
Re: To Sketch A Thief (1:45pm September 17, 2011):
Names sometimes tell me a bit about the character. I associate certain names with specific people so my bias may get in the way of the story.
Re: The Dragon And The Pearl (9:13pm September 14, 2011):
In Gone With the Wind, Scarlet O'Hara made a gown out of drapery and was very resourceful as she flounced her ruffles and stared down Rhett Butler not giving up an inch of her regality.
Re: Out in Blue (1:57pm September 13, 2011):
The wings on angels are so ethereal and the way they glide and hover is amazing. Wings get my vote and I like the way they work out issues.
Re: Little Black Dress (1:52pm September 12, 2011):
I recently bought a LBD and feel great in it. This story has a lot of essence to it.
Re: No Proper Lady (1:40pm September 12, 2011):
This seems like a book of other worlds colliding in history. I'll bet it makes an unusual read.
Re: Stone Cold Seduction (1:38pm September 12, 2011):
All the moments build on one another. I love your philosophy of yoga to take a moment and be in the moment as you go through the day.
Re: Kindling The Moon (4:08pm September 10, 2011):
The reference to Word-A-Day got me giggling and the rest really bends the mind. You have twists I never thought of.
Funny.
Re: Wings of Fire (5:35pm September 9, 2011):
I'm always excited to hear where author's stories come form, their inspiration and work habits. Some ideas take awhile to grow as you mull over the "What if's."
Re: Lord and Lady Spy (1:20pm September 8, 2011):
William Hurt always plays characters that have depth. Right now, Helen Mirren is a great villain/spy in The Debt.
Re: Deep Disclosure (8:52pm September 7, 2011):
I think I delve into all three, but the present is what you make of it. The past is behind, but has a way of snaeking in to remind me of my past actions good or bad or middling. The future is wide open, but needs a bit of structure if you want to aim for a goal or level higher than where you're at. The steps toward the future are unknown yet becoming closer everyday you do something positive for your endeavors. The future is what you make of it.
Re: Serendipity (4:38pm September 6, 2011):
I'd probably pick the mixture because a hero isn't always one way or another but a blend of unexpected pleasure or disappointment. I do like the Alpha male though.
Re: Bel Air (4:32pm September 6, 2011):
My favorite ice cream is Party Cake and a close runner-up is Edy's French Silk along with Butter Pecan.
Re: Deadly Descent (4:30pm September 6, 2011):
Yep. I've heard of the elite squad which makes it their business to get in and out of dangerous situations fast.
Re: The Wedding Affair (4:28pm September 6, 2011):
I like the scale of your pretend house. It's been a lifetime that I've been viewing them at various homes and fairs. The minature furniture and families designed to reside there are a fine art. I was given a pair of brass candlesticks which would have looked good in the tiniest of spaces. I have a home that belongs in books since it's a Tudor with the original windows and wrought iron details.
Re: Sweet Justice (3:58pm September 3, 2011):
The thriller stories written by Joseph Finder sure have enough scary villains. I just saw The Debt starring Helen Mirren and it was plenty scary, too. I jumped just hearing a door closing.
Re: Lady Of The English (8:23pm September 2, 2011):
I enjoy reading historical romance fiction. The two ladies seem like they took different approaches for empowering their lives. The change of power and the compromises and negotiations that incur give this story some powerful stuff to hang onto.
Re: Diaries Of An Urban Panther (5:26pm August 31, 2011):
I avoid horror movies and saw a sneak peak of the thriller, The Debt, last night starring Helen Mirren. If I saw a beast, I'd probably use the self defense lessons from a class in the 70's to protect myself.
Re: Claim Of Innocence (4:21pm August 30, 2011):
I fear the email that says I won the lotto which I didn't enter. So just go ahead and delete it and don't even dream about it. It's just a fishing expedition for your identity.
Re: Redeeming The Rogue (4:11pm August 30, 2011):
Love the name in your title, but not sure if all rogues are really redeeming. I guess it's something to aim high for. When a book ends, I look forward to the next in line of a series or hope the author will let the characters, main, secondary or distant walk on the page of future book. They might be a best friend or enemy.
Re: Blood of the Demon (5:50pm August 28, 2011):
Alpha heroes get my vote. They're just so manly and determined to get their way no matter what. Well, practically no matter what, because they do make deals and have to bend the rules a bit in their favor to reach a prize.
Re: Ward Against Death (3:42pm August 27, 2011):
Writing and personal shopping would be part of my dream job. I enjoy finding bargains and creating outfits that work for every occasion.
Re: The Things We Cherished (5:44pm August 26, 2011):
The war stories and Holocost can not be told too often. When we keep the stories alive and share our own history of how it affects us, it puts a human touch on terrible tragedies. Those on both sides of the aisles are affected whether they were the guards or the victims. Memory has a way of softening over time, but some of these details were full of hatred and anger.
Re: Secrets: Desires Unleased (9:37pm August 25, 2011):
Gerald, the cat, used his claws and threw Gainsburgers down from on top of the refrigerator. He and Barney,the dog, had a real feast while we were on vacation. We kept finding bits of that food behind doors and all over the house. I called them "Partners in Crime."
Re: Lucky Girl (5:11pm August 24, 2011):
Of course, first dates are awkward since there's so much anticipation and expectations. Mine was with a friend of my brother's and when we stopped dating, he left a black trail on the road from the tires squealing since he was in such a hurry to leave.
Re: Red's Hot Cowboy (5:09pm August 24, 2011):
Cowboys have that male thing about them and look good in boots.
Re: The Bone House (12:55pm August 22, 2011):
I get attached to well-developed characters. While being in a Writers Group for 5 years, one fellow wrote horror and by the time you turned page 2 practically everybody was killed. We told him to spend some more time on his people, but he still managed to kill them off quickly and instead went into the tools and skills of the hit-man business in extreme detail.
Re: The Edge Of Grace (1:13pm August 21, 2011):
I love that you recognize the distractions and fit them into your writing day.
Re: Fall From Pride (1:35pm August 20, 2011):
In Ohio there's plenty of Amish on farms without electricity. My cousins live near Coshocton and let the amish bid first on tools and equipment at auctions and just may let it go for a lower price than usual. My mom has wooden kitchen chairs made by the Amish and they're sturdy with a nice line to the design.
Re: Love Me Twice (7:22pm August 19, 2011):
I can move with the beat and choreographed a dance for a grade in gym at school. Taking ballroom dance lessons helped, too and so did Modern Dance in college.
Re: The Orphan Sister (1:34pm August 17, 2011):
My childhood summers consist of a never-ending supply of camping trips. Some were spent at Tamsin Lake Park where each of the sections had a different animal name like Deer Lick. The latrines had every kind of insect and moths galore, so it wasn't anywhere you wanted to spend much time in. The lake had slides with a hose to keep it wet and platform docks to jump and dive off. There were even teeter-totters tricky to balance without being bumped off.
Re: Deadly Obsession (12:17pm August 16, 2011):
Everyday heroes are the ones who take the time to really care when they run into you. And those who share a little piece of themselves especially the mistakes and how they got past or through them. It is the little things that count.
Re: The Vampire Next Door (5:16pm August 15, 2011):
Fun. Love the oversensitive part.
Re: Spycatcher (10:25am August 11, 2011):
I like learning about background in the roots of writing for an author. As another voracious reader, it's the books that talk to me first and I try really hard to listen.
Re: The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter (9:34pm August 10, 2011):
Happy endings are fine, but I want something different or that makes me think and question for some of the stories. I don't like everything to be so predictable.
Re: Only Mine (3:44pm August 9, 2011):
Wow, one book after the other. Girl you sure are prolific. I'd have to have a lot of outlines to keep everything straight with three books coming out in 3 months.
Humor makes the reading go quickly and is good exercise, too.
Re: Making Waves (9:40pm August 8, 2011):
Blake Lively from Gossip Girl would be fine in movies. Fun cast and dreaming of characters. Enjoyed reading your blog.
Re: Midnight Fear (1:46pm August 7, 2011):
Great job finishing your book. I enjoy books which delve into agents and the trouble they get into.
Re: Dead Man's Switch (2:45pm August 6, 2011):
That hamster wheel keeps going around and I can't get off very fast. I remember having a hamster, a gerbil and a mouse all at different times. They loved the wheel and exercised mostly at night when I was trying to sleep. For a break I go for walks and like being near water for that clears the mind and helps me think better.
Re: Pleating for Mercy (1:28pm August 5, 2011):
My luxury pastime is reading, finding beautiful herbal teas, foot soaks and going for walks in the park. I find the sound of water is especially rejuvenating whether in nature or the fountains at the mall.
Re: The Lady Of The Storm (8:38pm August 4, 2011):
You paint scenes with words, too. I like how you included all the senses in your vision of the magical mountain.
Re: Too Hot To Touch (3:05pm August 3, 2011):
My first crush was someone who made me blush and kissed my neck (first kiss) while I was bending over at my locker in high school.
Re: Lie for Me (8:24pm August 2, 2011):
Lying sets a rotten standard that only gets worse. I tend to be blunt so lying isn't a big part of my livelihood since it's so hard to remember what you've said to whom, when, where and exactly why you needed to stretch the truth to begin with. Who are you protecting the most with lies - yourself or the ones you are pulling one over on?
Re: Catch 22 (8:21pm August 2, 2011):
Looking out for one another in these tough times is the only way to make it. Networking within many channels is where people learn about jobs relevant to their niche and others they may have some interest in.
Re: The Full Moon Bride (6:10pm August 1, 2011):
I'm fascinated about learning of cultures that are exotic or so much different from traditional western values.
Re: The Marked Son (4:20pm July 31, 2011):
How to create a character is a way of taking something from everyday living and tweaking it a bit. Partly because many people get mad if they see themselves in the book portrayed with a quality they choose to not see or believe. I think imaginination adds layers and interest.
Re: What A Goddess Wants (7:16pm July 28, 2011):
A goddess wants it all plus plenty of admiration and body contact on her terms.
Re: The Genesis Key (1:07pm July 27, 2011):
The research you sifted through to make this book is amazing. It's some of what we wondered about years ago come to life.
Re: A Gentleman Never Tells (12:06pm July 25, 2011):
I went to a romance writers book signing and they talked about a cover that got away before printing. There was something about the hands being too many or in the wrong place. It was pretty funny.
Re: Hold Me (1:19pm July 24, 2011):
True love is a letting go of what's known to hug something new and to hold onto what's important in a friendly relationship. I've found that those close to one another do feel heartbreak when something tragic happens. It affects their very soul and wreaks havoc with their body making them vulnerable to attacks on the immune system. It's like the fights gone out of them and they're left with little support until they find roots again and can grow.
Re: Undead And Undermined (7:41pm July 22, 2011):
Undead books are fine as long as you know it's the genre before reading the book. Vampires seem to have an extreme fascination now, so they are the topic of many movies and books. I don't want to meet a vampire or his cohorts in real life.
Re: Touch If You Dare (11:28am July 21, 2011):
The cover spells out everything and tells it all. Thanks for the easy on the eyes look and the list of 10 which makes me giggle.
Re: The Language Of The Sea (5:31pm July 20, 2011):
I like looking for seals on Pier 39 in California and around the Cape in New England. They look so playful and I'm sure a story with seals as a mainstay would be good.
Re: In The Heat Of The Bite (1:43pm July 19, 2011):
I like stories that have secondary and even deeper characters and ones that continue using these secondaries as the main characters. A well-rounded book keeps my attention on the action in the scenes.
Re: Night Walker (4:51pm July 18, 2011):
Living forever would be great, but only if my friends and family can be part of that, too.
Re: Magnificent Passage (4:16pm July 17, 2011):
Bodice rippers sounds so sexy. And Native American Indians are intriguing, so steeped in history that I want to know more.
Re: The What If Guy (5:09pm July 16, 2011):
I love What if's because they make me think of options and I like to keep my options open. Real love has oomph to it and stays around for awhile as long as there are things to work on and work out between two people.
Re: A Spark of Death (4:27pm July 15, 2011):
Love the short character sketches. This looks like a well-developed read.
Re: When One Night Isn't Enough (9:38pm July 14, 2011):
The internet is very enticing when emails are gathering and the mind is set loose on a mission to do anything but the pressing goal of the moment. Life goes on around you while you do your almost best to reach the word count of the day squeezed into a chunk of time. The distractions at home are numerous so maybe it helps to get fresh perspective going offsite to clear out the noise and interruptions and carry on with your words. Setting small goals that are achievable helps you cross another task off your list. The internet can be freeing, but only if you have or take the upper hand.
Re: The Crepe Makers' Bond (7:50pm July 13, 2011):
If you tell yourself often enough what you are, you come to believe it. If someone else tells you, it seems to hold an infinite amount of weight and you may carry this assessment good or bad for a long time. It's called the self fulfilling prophecy and is part of Psych 101. I try to tell myself the good stuff since that's what I want to hear the most.
Re: Just One Season In London (4:55pm July 11, 2011):
I hope the one season has a ball or important dance because you never know who will be mingling. Sophie has a plan and is determined to fulfill most or all of it. I can't wait to see what turns out her way and what she does about the parts that do not.
Re: Luck of the Devil (4:53pm July 11, 2011):
It almost sounds like ghostwriting. Fanfiction is what authors want to hear from their readers and it sure is easier to write about a topic than to create on your own. Love reading comments from both readers and writers.
Re: Runestone (4:59pm July 9, 2011):
A sense of humor is one of the most important qualities as to if a friendship or relationship will be there for the long haul. Unexpected kindness is also something I love.
Re: The Doctor Takes A Princess (5:09pm July 8, 2011):
Pacing, singing songs especially calming for me, rocking and going for a wlak outside or a drive in the car.
Re: Loved By A Warrior (4:02pm July 6, 2011):
Myths and legends are stories rift with superstitions while curses are a way of tripping up another person by verbally claiming something will or won't happen in the future. It reminds me of the old saying, "Curses, foiled again."
Re: Shadow Of A Quarter Moon (4:47pm July 5, 2011):
Historical novels fascinate me by going back in time and seeing how the people spent their days, the food and morals which were followed or not.
Re: Break Out (4:44pm July 5, 2011):
Crossing genres is OK, but the booksellers have a hard time filing it on the shelves because it may need to be in more than one spot.
Re: Never Cry Wolf (2:54pm July 2, 2011):
What about his barking doesn't work at getting the right kind of attention. And being around women puts him on alert that there may be food in the works.
Re: Wild and Unruly (9:38pm June 30, 2011):
I don't think time travel is possible, but it's kindof a modern concept with some superstitions. I like stories that have the flavor of going back in time like A Conneticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.
Re: Night Veil (7:58pm June 27, 2011):
Superman is my favorite superhero because I like how he makes a game of flirting and changes in a phone booth.
Re: The Dark Enquiry (4:44pm June 26, 2011):
Love your take on the Victorians as you have a vivid imagination. When morals differ from the day it makes for interesting fodder.
Re: Burning Skies (10:09am June 25, 2011):
Wing control and a wingman reminds me of hockey and the special communication that goes on between the players when they know where the puck will be. I love your "cheat sheet."
Re: Missing Persons (10:07am June 25, 2011):
Your book sounds like it has a lot of gripping action in it. I love your asides and think that anyone giving excuses has a lot to hide somewhere.
Re: City Of Promise (8:03pm June 23, 2011):
I'm going through my TBR (To Be Read) stack and picking up some more Chic Lits and Mysteries to round out the shelves. A book is with me at all times, because you never know when you'll have to wait and I like to be prepared.
Re: A Ghost of a Chance (1:58pm June 22, 2011):
The first time I met someone who was a psychic was at a library talk on Babylonian times. She was convinced that the dead were talking through her and had the jewelry to prove it. I wasn't totally convinced as a teen, but some people do have extraordinary powers of intuition. As a practicing member of Alternative Medicine, I have been able to read pepolpe across the room when concentrating and letting the signs and symptoms tell me how they are.
Re: Silver Girl (1:40pm June 21, 2011):
I agree, Nantucket is a step away from the ordinary. Being near the water and the shake shingled homes with vistas overlooking the ocean is my kind of vacation. I have fond memories of the beaches, walks, a bird which somehow flew down the chimney of our rented place and the picnics. A walk by moonlight was the highlight of our trip. I can still taste the fresh catch and we took mussels from the rocks and steamed them. Jellyfish were out in force and that was creepy around the legs worrying about what would happen if one really connected. The breeze and the sound of waves were comforting and helped us have a relaxing family time. I wish to go back soon to this different way of living in Falmouth and learn the Indian lore again and peek in the shops for bargains and eyefuls.
Re: Demons Prefer Blondes (6:26pm June 20, 2011):
Romance can be something that is aimed for, but I like the spontaneous kind where you find someone looking back at your gaze and locking in.
Re: Under a Desert Sky (4:43pm June 18, 2011):
Passions have cycles of intensity and I like both the up and the down times. HEA (Happily Ever After) endings don't always finish completely and of course not perfectly. But some semblance of compromise that works for both parties is what I find happens like ordering Chinese - one from column A and one from column B. When both get something they want the sparks fly and energy ignites.
Re: Virgin (8:52pm June 17, 2011):
Gee this sounds real convoluted and with cats too. What fun.
Re: The Lost Summer Of Louisa May Alcott (12:47pm June 15, 2011):
Mom read Little Women and Little Men at night to us, so they are part of my soul. I still enjoy reading her stories and others about her life and times.
Re: Louisa And The Missing Heiress (12:45pm June 15, 2011):
Like the sidekick angle, since it's good to have a sounding or a resounding board to bounce ideas of the times. Just like every comedian has a straight man or invites audience to react, so in fiction and regular life it's helpful to have another ear to listen, anchor and let you soar. Thank you for creating a beautiful storyline that continues Louisa's spirit.
Re: Darkfire Kiss (6:53pm June 14, 2011):
When I like a story, I want to see more so spin-offs in a series are good. I also like it to be a stand-alone if possible or to give a few lines in the beginning so I can catch up to speed with who belongs to whom and what's their line and angle in the story.
Re: Money Shot (6:51pm June 14, 2011):
Yep, I agree we do know our on flaws, but sometimes overlook or avoid going anywhere near them. It's so much easier to go with the easier stuff instead of working on the issues inside. The more you're balking the bigger the gap between what you will and won't do. Settings on the other hand give structure to a piece and offer a way to anchor the imagination in real life lived and a slice of time. Flaws make a story more interesting because they usually trip somebody up and then they have to get out of a situation by using all their abilities and may borrow a few with the support of a friend or paid accomplice.
Re: Hard Bitten (6:40pm June 14, 2011):
Historical fiction strikes my fancy now that the heat is on outside. Romantic fiction and Chic Lit are other faves of mine. I'm always checking out the books at the Friends of the Library sale and pick up a few a week. You could call me a voracious reader because I have a healthy appetite for books and always have one in my bag.
Re: When Tony Met Adam (1:57pm June 13, 2011):
The military always raised my pulse up a notch. Congratulations on the movie version of your novel dwelling on Navy Seals and their ensuing relationship troubles and solutions.
Re: Blood Of The Wicked (1:54pm June 13, 2011):
I believe that some people can sense the future or your tendencies to intersect in certain categories that some call witchcraft or psychic. Practicing alternative Medicine like Reiki II and Therapeutic Touch has given me the ability to occasionally read people across the room. The first time it happened gave me goosebumps.
Re: Heart of the Highland Wolf (7:32pm June 8, 2011):
Gee, I think werewolves are scary enough, but they have to come from somewhere. Why not the Highlands and show off those kilts and kneesox.
Re: The Darkest Sin (3:16pm June 7, 2011):
I just might take another canal boat cruise near Stratford-On-Avon and enjoy the beautifully kept gardens in postage stamp size yards.
Re: The Soldier (3:11pm June 7, 2011):
I check out classy guys in stories and otherwise, but like the ones who have many sides better than the ones condensed into a book. I try to identify with certain types and qualities in a character like cherry-picking the cafeteria plan.
Re: The Girl Who Disappeared Twice (3:07pm June 7, 2011):
Girl, your stories seem so close to the action, because you have the eyes and ears of intimate players in your hand.
Re: Forced to Kill (3:05pm June 7, 2011):
Special Forces intrigue me with their no-sweat bravery, bravado and extreme focus to get the job done. High risk stakes combined with the chase keeps me wanting more pages to turn.
Re: Cover of Darkness (3:01pm June 7, 2011):
An yone in a military uniform gets my attention. I love reading about the secret elite who take care of missions and watch each others backs.
Re: Dead Of Wynter (2:58pm June 7, 2011):
Chilling, the hair raised on my neck with this flash fiction.
Re: Frostbound (2:54pm June 7, 2011):
Gee you have a lot going on in that scene. I'll bet the rest of the story will take you on more trips with strings attached.
Re: The Gin & Chowder Club (3:37pm May 31, 2011):
Conflicts in love remind me of regular life and I enjoy reading about the intentions and actions in the stories of romance.
Re: Ashes Of The Earth (5:14pm May 21, 2011):
I can't een begin to go down that road. By paying attention to what we are generate in our own lives, we can begin to see how we are all connected together in this world and possible ways to keep civilized.
Re: Wickedly Charming (5:10pm May 21, 2011):
You made me laugh at the accuracy part. Too much research plopped in a book makes me think more of a travel guide or encyclopedia, so I like when it's woven in seamlessly and given in threads to anchor the setting. I think many stories are crossing genres.
Re: Grimoire (5:02pm May 21, 2011):
Secondary characters add another layer to the story and give insight into the values and beliefs being shown or voiced by the main characters. They usually are the ones to ground a piece.
Re: Awaken The Highland Warrior (4:56pm May 21, 2011):
Characters are lived in the mind of the author first and then marched out in flesh to see where they'll go and what they could possibly do about the predicaments and events they find themselves in.
Re: SEALed Forever (4:50pm May 21, 2011):
When someone trains as hard as Seals and other elite forms of the military, their social skills may be focussed on the fighting rather than the emotions associated with relationships. They do have their "brothers" backs and will do what it takes to make the mission work. Sounds like a gripping read.
Re: Hit List (4:46pm May 21, 2011):
Your targets sound so important and are enticing to grab hold of your books and get to the juicy parts of espionage and all the trouble that goes with it.
Re: The Goodbye Quilt (1:40pm May 12, 2011):
I gave her my presence, spices from Penzi's, and several plants from annual plant sale including a black viola, a red coleus and lavendar.
Re: Already Home (4:28pm May 11, 2011):
I stopped counting when I reached 500 cookbooks. I used to cross-reference main dish recipes or sugar cookies and then pick somthing from each of 4 cookbooks. Now, I take shortcuts. The recipes on your website look good and have a lot of ethnic or regional qualities.
Re: A Family Affair (3:02pm May 9, 2011):
I agree that relationships are a complex entity. At times predictible and others impossibly unpredictible, so as you can see that's life.
Re: Blood Oath (3:00pm May 9, 2011):
I'm fascinated with the field of vampires and other creatures of the frightening dark. It takes a creative mind to lay down the setting for this mischief to take place.
Re: Dragon Bound (2:59pm May 9, 2011):
I can understand just getting by and the boundaries of friendship turning into more. Looks like a good read.
Re: The Hat (2:57pm May 9, 2011):
My mother is still a cheerleader in my life and my siblings. She is a superb event planner and connects to people through stories written for the local news, the historical society, a hiking club and, of course, her kids and grands. She fed me soup yesterday on Mother's Day and there's nothing like having food from home.
Re: Hit List (6:38pm May 1, 2011):
I love to hear authors talk about the art of writing and how they plan a typical writing day. You know how to keep producing the wonders in your series.
Re: Heart of Deception (6:23pm May 1, 2011):
Putting on a hat makes you feel different. I love hats especially the vintage ones. And a bit of lace has me over the top in a veil attached to a great hat.
Re: Bastian (6:21pm May 1, 2011):
It helps to be friends first before love, but love at first sight does happen, too. I think you can grow into a loving relationship after finding causes in common and getting to know a person better. It's the knowing somebody day to day that increases the chance you may resonate and walk together.
Re: Snowball in Hell (11:26am April 25, 2011):
Historical fiction entices me to read more and to know history better and see if the settings hold up.
Re: Rock Hard (11:23am April 25, 2011):
I love it when a couple tosses the conversation around. It's rather playful.
Re: The Shadow Guard (11:22am April 25, 2011):
Darcy of the tall and smoldering looks would be fine for a hero to walk out in real life.
Re: Haunting Desire (11:20am April 25, 2011):
Yep, that cover has miles of gazing ahead.
Re: The Alchemy of Desire (11:19am April 25, 2011):
I prefer the "bad boy" with redeeming qualities that soften the affection the the effect.
Re: Song Of The Silk Road (8:33pm April 20, 2011):
Your story sounds exotic and I enjoy learning about cultures completely different from mine. The setting makes me wistful to travel and get a taste of the Orient along with the quieting of the soul as tradional customs take over to create structure in every day.
Re: A Marriage of Inconvenience (8:30pm April 20, 2011):
I'm not a control freak except when it comes to food which I partake of at least 3 times a day plus snacks. Well, that's a big plus.
Re: The Beauty Chorus (8:27pm April 20, 2011):
Old times do make the heart grow fonder as in "Remember when..." and then someone fills in the blank. I'm rather fond of doing line edits for someone else's work while keeping it in the voice and tone of the writer. It sure helps to know the overall arc you want to convey so there's a circling around the wagon train that helps it not go downhill. Great subject matter in your book and love the cover. Way to go girl!
Re: Tangled Threads (8:23pm April 20, 2011):
Castle is the best show for 4 seasons worth of RV viewing. I enjoy watching Nathan Fillian's crooked smile make an appearance. The show's got a romance angle that appeals to me.
Re: It Happened On Maple Street (8:19pm April 20, 2011):
I passed on information last week and will follow-up with my friend to see if she can have some safe place to call home. I looked up the local phone number and gave her a page printed off the internet.
Re: Cowboy Fever (8:12pm April 20, 2011):
Your book sounds good and I like how you incorporate animals to help give kids with challenging abilities confidence while mastering the art of riding horses.
Re: Mimosas, Mischief, and Murder (8:16pm April 1, 2011):
When you move, stuff seems to multiply and you end up shaking your head figuring out where to put it all.
Re: The Return Of Black Douglas (8:15pm April 1, 2011):
I'm glad you explained the difference between the two, because I thought they were the same. Thanks for clearing up another mystery and for writing books I want to read.
Re: Texas Blue (9:41am March 28, 2011):
A writer can't help but write to explain those things swirling around in the mind and make some order out of them or not. Thanks for the tips.
Re: Yukon Wedding (9:38am March 28, 2011):
Well, I've had one of those hollowed out books that someone else butchered, but forgot which one. So it was no help with my huge collection of books.
Re: A Lot Like Love (12:51pm March 25, 2011):
Night and books are a good pair and so is reading just about anytime.
Re: Laird of Darkness (12:50pm March 25, 2011):
More heroines are coming to light. And the setting of Scotland always makes me dreamy.
Re: Sink or Swim (12:48pm March 25, 2011):
When a show morphs into real life problems, it seems like the reader becomes more of a close observer. This book has guts and verve along with the need to turn the pages faster to check on where the stalker is pulling the puppet strings on next. Don't keep me in suspense much longer, because I need to know more.
Re: Hummingbird Lake (12:19pm March 22, 2011):
If I'm on an email list for the author, I look at the book carefully and see if it "speaks" to me.
Re: Highland Heat (8:49pm March 21, 2011):
Clans, lairds, brogues, Oh My! Sounds like pages I want to turn to see what happens.
Re: Angel Sister (4:43pm March 20, 2011):
As I grow older, I understand more about the world my parents and relatives were living in . Their values and worries are a product of the times and I love hearing the stories and reasons why they did things like that.
Re: An Unlikely Countess (3:56pm March 19, 2011):
I don't believe it's necessary to love your place in society, rather it behooves you to be aiming for a goal or some higher level to reach in mind, body and soul.
Re: Tyler (8:23pm March 17, 2011):
The Irish weave magic in your books and keep me looking for more romance and that's no blarney.
Re: It Happened One Bite (11:35pm March 16, 2011):
Slang thrown around by witches and romance to boot, what could be better than sitting around a water cooler or stirring up a pot of troubles.
Re: So Close The Hand Of Death (11:33pm March 16, 2011):
I think starting from a bad place makes sense, because there's got to be something good coming out of it. Right?
Re: Dead on Delivery (11:32pm March 16, 2011):
Your real-life cruising in the neighborhood for setting made me laugh. I can just imagine people peeking behind their curtains to see what that strange car is doing at all hours.
Re: It Happened One Bite (8:47pm March 14, 2011):
It sounds like a witchy read and I'm not sure which one is more diabolical.
Re: A Taste of Seduction (5:22pm March 12, 2011):
Creating a hero is more of less a mind game. Thanks for sharing how you came up with yours.
Re: Angel's Rest (5:21pm March 12, 2011):
You made me do the giggle smile. I've heard of being all new again with certain cultures and how it's a sticking point for certain families and religions.
Re: What I Did For A Duke (12:32pm March 10, 2011):
Love the banter between your characters. I feel as if I'm eavesdropping on a private conversation.
Re: Taste Me (12:10pm March 10, 2011):
I have too many to list, but Dan Chaon's Await Your Reply and most chic lits get my eyes focused on the pages.
Re: Beaglemania (12:28pm March 8, 2011):
I grew up with a part beagle dog who loved to chase the animals in the backyard and protect the entire perimeter of the yard. Doggie tales interest me, so thanks for writing an adventure with paws.
Re: Against the Law (12:23pm March 8, 2011):
Love your trifecta series. It's like a triple play in baseball or a hat trick in hockey, well worth the investment in characters and time to read.
Re: Wicked Seduction (12:21pm March 8, 2011):
Possessed is not crazy, it's being compelled to tune in to the artistic expression that most people ignore. The imagination can be a wondering thing, but sometimes the things we dream about are frightening to even put down on paper.
Re: Treasure Me (12:17pm March 8, 2011):
Scottish characters seem to have a little extra something encompassing charm and a lilt in their dialogue. I do like to read about cultures and countries different from mine with the music, the neighborhood and of course, the food.
Re: Night Shadows (12:13pm March 8, 2011):
Acronyms are new words to me, but I've seen them used in catchy phrases like at seminars. Fear stops many form doing what they think they can't possibly do, but if they look at it from other angles, the scene gets less scary.
Re: A Lady's Wish (12:09pm March 8, 2011):
It sounds classy and I like reading novellas because they go so fast and I can keep the characters straight.
Re: Seducing The Governess (11:49am March 8, 2011):
Historical fiction tickles my fancy. I started with Georgette Heyer and never looked back while imbibing in this genre. What if's always intrigue me and there are plenty of books out that let you choose the ending raather than having it done for you, but I like both ways: the given and the DIY. Playing a scene in different ways helps you get into the characters head, possibly figuring out motivation and definitely intention. Great blog question.
Re: Staying At Daisy's (4:30pm March 7, 2011):
Your book cover is simple, yet intriguing especially with the dachshound. I like how your heroine simply couldn't steer clear of the sportsman who had no problem with arrogance. It reminds me of several people that have crossed my path, too.
Re: Animal Magnetism (4:14pm March 6, 2011):
A man in uniform makes me look at least twice. You never know who you'll meet when out and about in weekly activities of restoring your supplies and checking the hardware store for things to fix or fix up.
Re: Scandal of the Year (4:03pm March 6, 2011):
Hey Laura,
My creative writing professor says to tell him something new. It can be a retelling of an old tale, but with something else brought to the table like another person, setting or time.
Re: Operation Forbidden (11:16pm February 27, 2011):
Gems and danger, a perfect combination I look forward to reading and learning more about your background in stones.
Re: His, Unexpectedly (11:14pm February 27, 2011):
Enjoy reading about road trips and how people are thrown together over the journey and uncover secrets about each other.
Re: A Light at Winter's End (11:11pm February 27, 2011):
Enjoy reading the interview and Julia London's books.
Re: Love Script (11:09pm February 27, 2011):
Vampires are still in, so thanks for adding to the list.
Re: His Daughter... Their Child (11:05pm February 27, 2011):
I like how you took a common experience and turned it into the backdrop for a book. This past summer was a big high school reunion and the number who attended is growing smaller each year. The layers of living matrixed onto what you know happened in school makes for much talk.
Re: Faking It (11:02pm February 27, 2011):
Thanks for making me hit the dictionary twice; once for rhetoric and the other for dictionery which, of course, I changed to the right spelling. Your love of words is certainly apparent. I love the eloquence of flowery speech and long words do not bother me except to want to have a dictionary nearby.
Re: Beneath The Night Tree (10:54pm February 27, 2011):
My first "love" was more or less a secret. He never knew how smitten I was to this day.
Re: Outcast Mine (10:51pm February 27, 2011):
Leaving a comfort zone helps you grow perspective and gets you out of the same vanilla life. Collaborating is a fine art and in a writers group, I learned how to do dialogue finally. No two people have the same thing in mind, so as complexity increases the nuances become more obvious.
Re: RiverTime (10:46pm February 27, 2011):
I love reading to escape and go into the territories that I'm not used to while learning new history. I'm never without a book.
Re: Lucky Stiff (10:40pm February 27, 2011):
When a long term relationship disintegrates, the need to have someone listen to your anguish is great. So, why not create the ears you need and attach them to a dream or imaginery person. It gives such relief to kids that I'm sure for older kids or adults, it's a similiar feeling.
Re: Dangerous Secrets (10:30pm February 27, 2011):
Decisions are not easy to make unless they involve food. they seem so finite and you have difficulty going back to the beginning and starting over, so I can see how a choice made long ago can still affect the present day.
Re: The Mistress' House (10:19pm February 27, 2011):
A threesome twice has got to be good as long as the characters keep their distinction and voice. I'm sure they all want to step over the boundaries and meddle to place the object of their affections within sight.
Re: Society's Most Disreputable Gentleman (10:14pm February 27, 2011):
Rakes and bad boys hold a bond of fascination. I wonder how they can turn the charm on and off and get away practically with murder and other dastardly deeds.
Re: These Things Hidden (10:10pm February 27, 2011):
A good mother is present for her children, but less hovering as they grow up. My mom read stories at night to 4 kids and we all love the art of reading. Little women and Lilttle Men are grat as chapter books read over time in a series at night we were all mezmerized.
Re: Deadly Ties (10:04pm February 27, 2011):
Girl, you really get in there and raise the questions digging deep. Searching the pages for conflicts and finding a few solutions keeps me turning the pages to see how this set of characters goes about getting into and out of troubles. It looks like a good read and the pages would go fast.
Re: Assault with a Deadly Glue Gun (10:00pm February 27, 2011):
Romance makes the mystery all the better. Love the book trailer and how crafty you are to mix hobbies within your novel. I remember a huge table at the Ritz where my friend had a birthday party for her 10 year old. We had to ask for a tablecloth to protect the table from her hot glue gun and it only reached across a bit of that table.
Re: Bitten in the Bayou (2:58pm February 20, 2011):
You've Got Mail and When Harry Met Sally.
Re: Storm Of Reckoning (2:51pm February 19, 2011):
Your blogs a hoot of fun or should I say, it makes you "paws" and think what would this animal do from his point of view. Your book sounds fun with all that thinking out loud and cutting to the crap amongst sinister simmering evil.
Re: Love Me If You Dare (8:14pm February 14, 2011):
Valentine's Day and the days leading up to it make me grateful for the loves of my family and friends. I pass on hugs and good wishes and this year sent email Valentine's from katespade.com which were real cute.
Re: Midnight Caller (10:38pm February 13, 2011):
Like the positioning of opposites, because when everything's the same it's too vanilla and predictable. With this combo of opposites, compliments might happen and so might battles with the inevitable making up possibly in creative ways.
Re: Breaking the Rules (9:42pm February 13, 2011):
I'll be having some cranberry juice spiked with a lemon to help me pucker up for a reason. Your drink list made me envious and read like good chapters for a hot treat in fiction.
Re: True Colors (9:38pm February 13, 2011):
I agree that Castle invites the writer, Nathan Fillian, to fill the space between the lines like reenacting the crime scene. I like the psychic ability reading a person's past to fill in the reasons for the resulting behavior and the heavy weight of baggage lugged around for years.
Re: The Color of Heaven (11:24pm February 9, 2011):
I've heard the concept of near-death experiences, but haven't yet had the occasion happen to me. Each person who describes their ultimate yo-yo journey followed by an earth-bound return, looks to the receiver of the story to see how much they are believing or un-believing this strange aspect of being between worlds.
Re: The Mysterious Lady Law (8:41pm February 4, 2011):
I want to think it's an equal opportunity thing to cross paths and embody the opposite sex at least in writing. I'll leave it to the imagination, because that's what writers do. Stories help shape communication and understanding about relationships if you look at motivations, intentions and just human nature in general.
Re: Everyone Loves A Hero (11:13pm February 2, 2011):
As a nurse, there's plenty of heroic moments in the hospital and beyond. There was a patron at the library who had an episode where I gave first aid until the paramedics arrived. The library tech person did the right thing by immediately calling 911. He was so grateful that I helped, yet to me, this is what I'd expect someone in the medical field to do.
Re: The Irish Princess (8:09pm February 1, 2011):
Yep, research certainly pays off with leaps off the page. A redhead as an Irish princess sounds like competition for someone's desire.
Re: Haunting Jasmine (5:39pm January 31, 2011):
Whenever I'm in an older home, I think of the characters that have walked through before and made changes or as some people call it mistakes. If walls could talk, I bet they've overheard plenty of things somebody doesn't want repeated in mixed company.
Re: Burning Darkness (5:37pm January 31, 2011):
An unforgiveable act is doing something out of character with no explanation. Also if the MC (main character) dies right away, it leaves me with a bad feeling and I bet the MC isn't doing too well either.
Re: Wild Man Creek (3:39pm January 29, 2011):
It's like a trifecta a triple play or trio of good reads. I like the Virgin River series and just the name itself makes me giggle.
Re: The Werewolf Upstairs (1:22pm January 29, 2011):
I enjoy hearing about stories that are historical and have a hint of truth. Listening to a good storyteller is like losing track of time and being transported to a new arena, a new destination on life's journey if you can only imagine...
Re: Immortal Champion (8:37pm January 27, 2011):
I read romance to get a little love back in my life making me feel more of a well-rounded person.
Re: Mercy Blade (11:58am January 26, 2011):
I love hearing stories in other media where the interviewee brings the book to life and stays in character as if it's in the setting imagined in the story and with all the other characters revolving around the conflict.
Re: Stroke of Midnight (11:55am January 26, 2011):
A bit of humor teases in a romance and keeps me wondering when the next tidbit will be revealed. This sounds like a book that's almost too hot to handle.
Re: The Paris Secret (11:43am January 26, 2011):
My favorite librarian is a bookseller at Appletree Books in Cleveland Hts, OH, who recommended a kids book, Catch Me and Kiss Me and Say It Again, that became dog-earred from reading it so often. I can still recall the non-sensical British humor and the way my kids liked the rhymes and beats.
Re: Ten Ruby Trick (11:37am January 26, 2011):
George Clooney is one of my favs, because he always gets a crowd on board with his plans like the movie Oceans 11 and Up In The Air which is about firing people.
Re: Dreams' Dark Kiss (11:34am January 26, 2011):
The muses in my life are my family who keep needing me for various emergencies and I get to reteach customs and likewise they teach me more about a different generation and what's hot now.
Re: Eternal Prey (11:30am January 26, 2011):
I love the handsome heroes with a bit of softness around the hard. They can't be bad all the time and need at least one redeeming factor. It helps for a spontaneous occasional romantic gesture, too.
Re: Yours For The Taking (11:46pm January 25, 2011):
My perfect day includes eating a filling breakfast, going on a walk preferably by water, reading a good book and writing more. A massage would be nice...
Re: At Hidden Falls (11:44pm January 25, 2011):
Mom read to her 4 kids at night one chapter by chapter at a time with Little Women. Because lights had to go out when parents said, we read by flashlight. I never lost my love of reading and in fact it's voracious. A book is always in my bag just in case.
Re: The Fire In Ember (2:50pm January 22, 2011):
Historical fiction has more content than princess stories, but I do like to mingle my royalty with the setting.
Re: Mercy Kill (2:48pm January 22, 2011):
The darker side fascinates me, draws me into a web and scares me a lot. I like reading about it to a degree, but sure wouldn't want to live even part of it.
Re: Night Promises (2:46pm January 22, 2011):
Well, I don't know what I'd do meeting a vampire. I'd probably try to redirect traffic away from me since maybe I'm not his type. Anybody who gets too close, vampire or not, runs the risk of blocking the space you need around you and getting in the way of letting chi flow smoothly.
Re: Deadly Heat (2:43pm January 22, 2011):
Love that you call yourself "fairly innocent" but I don't know what's fair about that. I love my romances to have some humor and food in them, especially good recipes that I can whip up.
Re: Wicked Seduction (1:48pm January 18, 2011):
A deadline is a promise to finish, but that's not always kept since life throws a few detours along the way.
Re: Kiss At Your Own Risk (1:46pm January 18, 2011):
I agree about taking the long road, since the short road is too fast, unless you have to get to a destination right away or to meet somebody. On the long way around, there's more to see and experience and savor.
Re: Nocturne (1:44pm January 18, 2011):
I do believe in miracles and in love at first sight, since the love part happened to me.
Re: Pleasure Me (1:43pm January 18, 2011):
Actually, you gave me an idea for a title: Twists and Titles.
Re: Real Wifeys (1:39pm January 18, 2011):
I like that you won't be pinned down and labeled into a forever slot. Good luck in navigating your way around different genres and creating stories woven around things outside of the routine.
Re: Stay Tuned For Murder (1:37pm January 18, 2011):
Thanks for the tips. I thought preparation for being interviewed means having a cheat sheet composed of points you want to make similiar to a politician only more gracious.
Re: Highborn (1:31pm January 18, 2011):
I know all about outlining, but prefer to just write the story simple. When I stop to outline, I lose my thought line and then have to use tricks to get it back, like when you lose anything, you have to go backwards to figure where you put it. I know, some people swear by it and love the structure and the destinations and endings likely to be reached.
Re: Dreams' Dark Kiss (1:29pm January 18, 2011):
Wow, I didn't know you were pushed into reading comics, I thought it was something to naturally gravitate toward when young and on Sundays. Writing your way out of trouble is a way to learn more about the inside self. Thanks for sharing your zigzagged path.
Re: Fatal Justice (8:52pm January 7, 2011):
Girl, the line you picked sure sounds scary. I want to flip the pages to see what was attached to that dead head.
Re: Senseless (8:51pm January 7, 2011):
Songs tend to "get" to me, too. I like plenty of oldies because I think of where I was when I first heard them. I also like to hear what I call "my song" like the ones from first dates and other interesting experiences. Coldplay, Duffy and Nickelback are some of the tunes I listen to.
Re: Deadly Identity (4:45pm January 5, 2011):
Tips make my day. Thanks for offering yours into the ring and setting goals to aspire to, deviate from and grow.
Re: Master Of Smoke (4:43pm January 5, 2011):
Fun reading about your wildness in thinking and the results that are mind-breaking for the reader. I love when the psche enters into the equation for characters and how they're suppposed to react and then go right ahead and do something different. You keep us on our toes.
Re: Real Vampires Have More To Love (4:40pm January 5, 2011):
You do know how to stretch the imagination to include things that I used to think were just for kids. But not anymore, vampires are mainstream now and even hot.
Re: Against The Wind (4:38pm January 5, 2011):
A trilogy lets you develop the characters more as the reader grows more attached to their intentions and actions.
Re: I Dream of Genies (4:36pm January 5, 2011):
Love the premise. You have quite some imagination to dream of genies and the art of magic. The book sounds enticing.
Re: Cowboys Never Cry (7:31pm December 30, 2010):
Thanks for helping me see more blurry. When a character acts out of expectations, everybody notices and react to the not towing the line drawn already in the circles around him. I like a cowboy to be manly yet have sensitivity and to surprise me with the soft and subtle ways he has deep down.
Re: Deadly Identity (7:26pm December 30, 2010):
Your tips sound good for keeping at the writing bug. I did Julie Cameron's The Artist Way at Barnes and Noble years ago in a group which included writing "morning pages" of 3 pages a day. Also plan for weekly little field trips out of the ordinary to wake up the senses.
Re: Red Ink (7:32pm December 28, 2010):
Write what you know works for memoir, but lacks the integrity for historical fiction and fantasy. I like to make up words especially in poetry so they're almost a word, but stretch the imagination. Great titles and realistic book covers.
Re: Precious and Fragile Things (7:36pm December 27, 2010):
I like the premise and the promise in your book, it sounds like a real page turner.
Re: The Winter Sea (7:34pm December 27, 2010):
History already happened and many of the facts can be checked whereas in a novel, it's more of a compilation of fiction with a few facts thrown in for a measure. The facts give the reader something to anchor to depend on as the scenes change and the characters show their inner thoughts in their actions more.
Re: The Viking's Captive (7:30pm December 27, 2010):
Rereading the classics around the holidays always gives me a smile inside and out.
Re: Murder In Plain Sight (7:29pm December 27, 2010):
The Amish lifestyle is intriguing since they tend to keep to their own kind except for auctions and working their handcrafted magic. Like Quakers, they have strong family traditions along with support from religion and neighbors.
Re: The Irish Warrior (7:27pm December 27, 2010):
You conjure up images that are surely hot. I sense that you get the reader involved fast and keep the pages turning in this playing with words. I do like "I'm beginning to feel a bit reckles," since what follows has got to be good.
Re: Double Cross (7:24pm December 27, 2010):
What fun working on the psyche and seeing what good comes of it or not.
Re: Dark Angel, The Chosen, Soulmate (7:19pm December 27, 2010):
I would plan on making a list real long to take advantage of the authors who I already like that have certain books only on readers.
Re: Pay Up (7:10pm December 27, 2010):
I like my heroine to have backbone or develop it and show what steps she's finally taking to work out a problem.
Re: Haunted Honeymoon (7:09pm December 27, 2010):
It got even colder around dusk when I went on a walk with my daughter who's flying into where the snow hit hard on the East coast tomorrow. For a book anything cozy like a mystery or something where food has a starring role would be fine with hot chocolate to warm the soul and toes.
Re: Wolf Fever (12:11pm December 17, 2010):
For people, I'm pretty set with the BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast), but for wolves, it would be something light for the flu.
Re: Like Clockwork (12:08pm December 17, 2010):
Boy does this have a lot of stuff in it. I didn't know about the term steampunk before.
Re: Icecapade (12:07pm December 17, 2010):
Your first line, "We're working on a murder together," could be misinterpreted if overheard by anyone who didn't know you. I love mysteries for the subtle clues in the who could have possibly done it and how.
Re: The Heir (12:03pm December 17, 2010):
This looks like a book with plenty of action and I want to step in and be mingling with the characters. About the fear of the dark, it's something I outgrew years ago.
Re: It Happened On Maple Street (12:23pm December 13, 2010):
True love is sweet and grows on you. I believe that love is only as strong as the people make it work out. Anyone who says love is simple has got to be kidding.
Re: The Ghost Hunter (12:17pm December 13, 2010):
I love the regency period and Georgette Heyer's romances.
Re: The Spy Who Saved Christmas (12:14pm December 13, 2010):
I love mysteries and when they're combined with food, I savor them more.
Re: All She Wants for Christmas (2:59pm December 8, 2010):
I thought my hometown was small, but at 13,000 people it kept the flavor of a small town with a village square and Main Street of Broadway. I like reading about small towns too and how everybody knows stuff practically right away.
Re: Rajmund (2:44pm December 8, 2010):
The book sounds appealing with the appearance of the territorial Lord Vampire along with the clashes with opinions which can not possibly match his. It's the struggle between power and the softening of views of the heart. I agree that complicated men are more fascinating.
Re: Beneath The Thirteen Moons (2:37pm December 8, 2010):
Oops, I stepped out for a minute and didn't proof my own writing. You can see where I meant "so" and wrote "os".
Re: Beneath The Thirteen Moons (2:35pm December 8, 2010):
Opposites attract because there's some virtue or skill missing that you admire in another and yearn to have for yourself or if not, to be near someone who inhabits that thing you wish for. It makes for great conversations when there's os much ground in the middle to cover. It makes for an interesting read with all those conflicts and a few intersections where the main characters find something in common.
Re: Jane Slayre (4:26pm December 5, 2010):
Oops, I misspelled Pillsbury.
Re: Jane Slayre (4:25pm December 5, 2010):
Pilssbury Best of the Bake-Off Cookies and Bars is the cookbook I've used the most for the holidays. The most requested recipe is for Rocky Road Fudge Bars from there along with Butterballs. Another book that was read by Mrs. Claus to my kids was Prancer. Other favorites include the classic Little Women, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Polar Express, The Nutcracker. I like this trio of books by Jan Brett: The Wild Christmas Reindeer, The Mitten, The Twelve Days of Christmas. Carl's Christmas (has a black dog in it) by Alexander Day. I Spy Christmas which is a lap book along with The Jolly Christmas Postman (has envelopes to open and letters to share).
Re: Twins Under His Tree (2:55pm December 5, 2010):
I'm always fascinated by stories from the front and what's going on back at the homestead. Having a set of twins myself, I know about the roller coaster in their first year of life. Then as they age, the questions get better.
Re: Royal Blood (2:51pm December 5, 2010):
The perfect gift is one that's available if people make time to be around you. Their presence is enough to satisfy me. I have a friend who gave gifts sporadically year-round without paying attention to birthdays or holidays. I think she made exceptions for births and weddings, since they are not so prevalent. Thinking long about the person in mind, yields the most chance they may appreciate your choices.
Re: Sparks (2:47pm December 5, 2010):
Sparky was the name of my first dog, a blue-tick hound who loved hunting. We used to collect salamanders at the Nature Center, but they have a short life and we released them after a few minutes of tickling our hands.
Re: Outrageously Yours (2:19pm December 1, 2010):
I like books with characters who mind their shape. Rowing or crew as some call it is a sport that takes precision, discipline and practice like all sports. Most don't know that the legs are the chief power source there. Looks like a good read.
Re: Second Chances (6:39pm November 30, 2010):
Love the title, the idea and the simplicity of another chance. It's what kids of all ages desire the most along with attention, of course.
Re: No Way Out (3:39pm November 29, 2010):
Besides being part of the tornado corridor and good for storm chasers, I learned Kansas City has a great art museum.
Re: Gemini Night (4:36pm November 27, 2010):
Love your ideas about getting rid of a fave character. It gets me to thinking about my own mystery writings.
Re: Holiday Sparks (12:05pm November 26, 2010):
romance novels are great escapes from the everyday living. Pumpkin pie is the best and homemade apple pie runs a close second if the crust is good.
Re: Motor City Witch (12:03pm November 26, 2010):
Motor City has cars and sports like Hockey, so what's not to like?
Re: Angel in My Arms (12:18pm November 23, 2010):
Why not include more feminine spies, since a husband/sife team made news with their spying on the side.
Re: Her Kind of Hero (12:16pm November 23, 2010):
My longest love was a chance meeting at a popular watering hole frequented by yuppies. I looked for room on my calendar planner, back when everybody carried a hard copy around, then didn't look back by making more and more time for him.
Re: Dating Mr. December (12:14pm November 23, 2010):
I get inspired to do a good job by the people around me and learning more about my crafts of nursing and writing.
Re: The 4th Victim (6:41pm November 19, 2010):
It seems like you had a great time talking with other authors and sharing the writerly stuff. I always find that the Q&A peroid is when I learn the most current things that help in my writing and understanding where the authors are coming from and a little of their technique.
Re: The Christmas Clock (6:39pm November 19, 2010):
Christmas Clock sounds delightful. I can't wait to get my hands on it.
Re: Somewhere Along the Way (6:37pm November 19, 2010):
Talent can appear with practice and perseverance. We all can write, but not everybody makes a cohesive story with all three parts - beginning, middle and an end. I think that's why I like mysteries, since the ending can be left up in the air.
Re: Swift Justice (6:34pm November 19, 2010):
The holidays are a long time in coming as anticipation builds closer to the dates. I tend to shop at the last minute and wrap gifts while at the person's house who's receiving them I come armed with paper and sometimes tape, but forget the scissors and end up folding back a lot of paper. Sometimes I buy gifts and forget where I put them and have to go to the next plan which is dashing out and getting something easy.
Re: Miracle Baby (6:30pm November 19, 2010):
My fairy tale hero is the character in the next book I read. I'm always projecting and falling for characters.
Re: The Taming Of The Wolf (6:28pm November 19, 2010):
I also like #5 about redecorating because the furniture gets scratched. I call that antiquing or looking lived-in.
Re: Honky Tonk Christmas (6:26pm November 19, 2010):
Country music reminds me of those times that were good for love, lousy for relationships and hopeful for the future. You have quite a sexy cover on the front of the book. I like his cowboy hat tipped and casual attitude.
Re: Falling Home (1:55pm November 12, 2010):
It's quite all right to do geeky things like Sudoko which I learned as a judge my first time working the elections. It keeps the mind sharp. You certainly observed a lot of uncivilized behavior at school growing up and to me. That just gives you more of a reason to write about those characters who made life trying and to find creative ways to get over the angst.
Re: Deadly Intent (10:30pm November 11, 2010):
Les Roberts who taught a screenwriting course that I took years ago has 13 mysteries mostly set in Cleveland with a detective, Milan Jacovich.
Re: The Forever Queen (10:27pm November 11, 2010):
Royalty stories and traditons make for lively stories of the privileged. It looks like a good read.
Re: Casting About (5:40pm November 9, 2010):
Some of the wildest imaginations have penned the best writings. I enjoy a good turn on the words of others and sometimes even I can make myself laugh with the antics of the characters in my own tales.
Re: While Galileo Preys (5:38pm November 9, 2010):
Action moves the story and snappy dialogue is easiest to follow.
Re: While Galileo Preys (5:36pm November 9, 2010):
Coincidences are always amazing it's as if fate and wishes collide to make a new reality.
Re: The Devil She Knows (12:31pm November 6, 2010):
Stonehenge and a place with similiar connotations called Avebury in England are two of my favorites because of the way the weather being threatening added to the mysterious rings of sotnes there. I also ejhoy being around Serpent Mounds in Ohio which were burial grounds for Native Americans.
Re: No One Lives Twice (11:39am November 5, 2010):
My humor is more of the giggle or a bit of the sarcastic type. I find in writing humor is the glue that holds onto connections for seemingly opposite types.
Re: Holiday Grind (11:29am November 5, 2010):
Pumpkin Pie and Butterball Cookies that melt in your mouth are the foods I grew up with and have for the holidays. Love books with food showcased in them and recipes, too.
Re: The Snow Globe (8:32pm November 3, 2010):
Moments are memories shared together with friends and family. Homemade gifts are the best and sometimes simply being present is enough.
Re: Holiday Affair (3:36pm November 1, 2010):
Well, I used to be up half the night after working the 3-11 PM shift wrapping presents while everyone else slept soundly. I've cut down on the baking and cards a lot, but still enjoy a good cookie exchange. Our family tradition includes Santa Claus soup which is either cream of mushroom or cream of celery so Santa could warm up a bit along with the hot chocolate. Sometimes there were ashes in the shape of footprints by the fireplace along with the stockings with a tangerine at the toe, individual cereals, chocolates and candy canes to tap before breakfast. After breakfast which came all too soon was the present opening time. Holiday stories make me feel warm and cozy.
Re: Pinned for Murder (5:22pm October 29, 2010):
Thanks for the explanation and writing the stuff I want to read with characters I get attached to. If characters didn't change, it would be tedious. So here's to the growth and development of more sides to the main cahracters and a new crop of minor ones.
Re: An Accidental Seduction (5:19pm October 29, 2010):
My favorite heroes are everyday ones who are sensitive yet strong and handsome, of course. I think Rhett Butler in Gone With The Wind gets my vote for solid brashness and ruthless business sense.
Re: Mr. Darcy's Obsession (5:17pm October 29, 2010):
I enjoy reading about Jane Austen, her life and times. Also my daughter, when in HS had to write a story from the point of view of one of her characters and that showcased the customs and morals of the day and how rigid they were.
Re: Simply Irresistible (5:13pm October 29, 2010):
Sweet contrast between sisters and the usual conflicts in families. Looks like a good read.
Re: Beautiful Darkness (4:38pm October 25, 2010):
Vampires are popular now, although they used to give me the creeps. Imaginative and creative, there's no end to what a vampire or supernatural being can do. It seems like they're always finding loose ends and reweaving a web of deceit to trap their victims.
Re: Catching Moondrops (4:35pm October 25, 2010):
Fireflies in December seems like fun to me, but can they survive the cold of the Midwest? We're having a lull in the fall weather with 70's and sunshine now. Fireflies gives me back fond memories of capturing and putting them in Mom's Tupperware and, of course, holes were poked in the top so they could breathe.
Re: Dangerous To Know (3:31pm October 25, 2010):
I used to have a French Normandy home with a turret and French doors, so setting and architecture is key to have structure to put your characters in and up against as a backdrop. You chose a great period of time to promote.
Re: You're All I Need (8:46pm October 24, 2010):
Having goals in writing and other nearly daily activities gives you something to aim for rather than being totally spontaneous which doesn't get you real far in the long run.
Re: Crossing the Lion (4:42pm October 23, 2010):
I admire your control like a captain with a destination and destiny in mind while on a voyage. It seems like you have a plan for most of your excuses and don't go off on odd tangents. A pad to keep track of all those things you're itching to do makes a lot of sense to me. I'll give it a go.
Re: A Darcy Christmas (1:50pm October 22, 2010):
Anne of Green Gables and Avonlea almost had the pages worn out, Mom read them first out loud to four children at night in the hall, two kids per bedroom. Then, I had a go at them with daylight fading and nighttime flashlights pulled out to keep reading with the lights out. Thanks for including children as an essential part of your stories, making them richer relatively speaking.
Re: Twilight Hunger (1:46pm October 22, 2010):
The life of a writer is making more than enough revisions to 80/20% satisfy editors. I'm glad you had other books in the works that suited the publisher's fancy. No one sees the exactly the same things in a book or a reading, it's all open to interpretation and discussion. Vampires are all the rage and now even more since Halloween is soon. I know you'll keep plugging away, afterall, writing is in your blood.
Re: Captive Spirit (8:49pm October 20, 2010):
The Serpant Indian Mounds in Ohio fascinate me along with most tidbits about Native Americans. I also learned about the Indians displace in Falmouth, Massachusetts, while staying in Cape Cod and enjoying the coast and digging for mussels. We also had a bat that flew down the chimney and had to open up every window and door to allow for escape.
Re: The Making of a Gentleman (8:40pm October 20, 2010):
I love reading a wide variety of books. They can be about new hobbies and cultural concepts, too. The memory of practicing piano and recitals comes back to me, too, along with the butterflies and sweat from worry about hitting the wrong or a new note. The pedal effect on the sound when playing piano evokes more moods. I do love hearing and learning more about the Regency time period and all their customs and costumes.
Re: Pursuit of Justice (8:08pm October 18, 2010):
Characters with flaws that figure out unusual ways to get out of trouble get my attention and make me a faster page-turner. I tend to think up situations that are most unlikely and then go backwards to see how they got there.
Re: Grave Witch (10:53am October 16, 2010):
Death is more of a concept to me rather than a character although at times, the dead do talk "from the grave" or from the underground they fell into.
Re: Highland Hellcat (10:52am October 16, 2010):
All kinds of herbal and green teas have benefits I like to share including antioxidants, setting mood and pick-me-up.
Re: Silver Serenade (6:01pm October 14, 2010):
Hey thanks for showing us what a typical villain is at least in writing. I find the more despicable, the more I search for some glimmer of decency.
Re: Backstage Pass (7:03pm October 13, 2010):
I have no control over the cats or cads in my life. I wouldn't even know where to begin since sometimes I have to give them a lot of space to brood. Is band mates a European, Australian or Canadian term, Eh?
Re: The Secret History Of The Pink Carnation (4:04pm October 12, 2010):
I have a smile on my face from your travels on the tube in grad school. How do you stay upright when the train is lurching? I tend to take a few people down with me, making a soft cushion for my landing. Historical fiction is usually true to the period in dress, traditions and customs.
Re: Sloane Hall (8:33pm October 11, 2010):
Of course. Still it helps to have more than one viewpoint, but not to headhop on each page. I like when a chapter has one viewpoint or at least one side of the family's viewpoint.
Re: Sazerac Seduction (3:33pm October 10, 2010):
My dream man exists in my brain only, because there's such a long list. Instead, I settle for a good conversation and a few like hobbies which may also be passions.
Re: Two Lethal Lies (3:31pm October 10, 2010):
What fun being casting directior for pretend and using real people. As a voracious reader I never thought about the movie crossover thing, except hearing how a select few bestsellers are optioned for movies.
Re: Seducing The Duchess (5:51pm October 8, 2010):
As a teen, romance novels were an introduction to HEA. Now, they're a quick read and historical ones are rich in setting. I like a good romance every now and again. They seem so fresh.
Re: Lord Lightning (5:46pm October 8, 2010):
Astrology has a lot of clues as to the tendencies of people born under a certain sign. I'm fascinated by when different planets cross paths influencing behavior and the tides with the moon.
Re: The 2nd Lie (5:43pm October 8, 2010):
What a disaster. I figure something was trying to tell you to pay attention to your surroundings and prepare for the unexpected. I hope you're on the mend and that your hand isn't going to predict the weather like a barometer for storms.
Re: Friday Mornings At Nine (8:09pm October 5, 2010):
Being a good listener, I'm always receiving secrets and have to hold onto them a long time since they come with "strings attached". I like the movie Love Story and the wintry scenes as spring held a promise of a date for joining two families together.
Re: Runes (8:06pm October 5, 2010):
Runes is something I don't know much about, but discovered at a retreat in Canada where we made clay replicas with symbols on them. I do like a man with ABS and rippling ones would be a sight to watch and see.
Re: The Spy Who Saved Christmas (8:45pm October 4, 2010):
My hobbies include reading, writing fiction, poetry, sewing and home projects and singing. I checked out your website and the art was enjoyable with unique color schemes.
Re: Building Magic (3:28pm October 3, 2010):
I never thought of finished writing as a form of food. Of course,I,too reward myself with treats and food seems to be just about the fastest.
Re: Dark Road To Darjeeling (3:26pm October 3, 2010):
I always carry books and cherish those few moments in between when nothing but the words are calling.
Re: Sinful in Satin (3:25pm October 3, 2010):
I'm sure there are nights of dreams, but I do not recall anything except for a feeling like falling. I know dreams are where you rehash the day and try out different endings with various scenes and mix-up the people, too.
Re: When Wicked Craves (4:31pm September 29, 2010):
Our street is the guinea pig for a traffic calmer which funnels everyone down to one lane going down the middle of the road for one house. It's 2 half circles that supposedly make people slow since there's quite a few kids here. Everybody has to take turns and be mannerly. A culdesac would be quiet except for all that turning around and shining headlights through the front windows. In any neighborhood there's always someone mysterious. I'd hate for it to be bad.
Re: The Bride's Necklace (7:09pm September 28, 2010):
The cover compels me to open the book, read the first page, skip to the middle and decide if I'll continue on this path. Your covers have the setting in the background and the guy bigger than life. I like.
Re: Until Emie (12:14pm September 28, 2010):
Yep. The uniform factor gets to me every time. I like the clean-cut image and a nice haircut even across the back of the neck. I remember being on the train from Newark, NJ to NY and the guys looked proper and didn't break a sweat although the heat never shut off on the train and it sure was hot.
Re: One Touch of Scandal (2:47pm September 26, 2010):
Chocolate always works for me and I always have some in the pantry. I look for the dessert menu first when going out to eat.
Re: The Echo of Violence (1:39pm September 25, 2010):
i agree that ideas are everywhere and as my writers group says "Torn from the headlines," is the place to mine for current topics. I especially like cold cases where others have tried before to solve a crime and failed.
Re: Secrets Volume 29 Indulge Your Fantasies (3:56pm September 24, 2010):
Scotland always gets my nod as a place of interest for a setting because of the plaids, the clans and the brogues (how they roll their "R's".
Re: For the King's Favor (3:54pm September 24, 2010):
Having people you know in your writing is tricky, because they seem to only want to pay attention to their assets, yet it's the conflicts and struggles that move the plot along with some kindof action. I do like historical fiction.
Re: Venom (3:52pm September 24, 2010):
Tame ones seem like they're made for kids like most of Disney's movies. The various Madeleine L'Engle stories are favorites because my kids read them and also I had an entire Fifth grade giving me a summary of the books they read.
Re: Love Me (3:49pm September 24, 2010):
A couple is most attractive to me, but those ripped Abs are something else that would be nice to hug or hold.
Re: Captured by Desire (4:32pm September 19, 2010):
Commoners, by their very name, are easy to resonate with for you see them in everyday life. I like the underdogs, because I need someone to root for to make it over the obstacles and reach the distant prize.
Re: Return To Paradise (5:54pm September 17, 2010):
You're so very right about characters taking you in a direction you never dreamed. At times, it feels as though the story writes itself with my fingers trying to keep up.
When readers keep wanting more stories along the same line, you have an audience with requests to fill, so keep on writing and give them the good and bad news.
Re: Just One Taste (2:11pm September 16, 2010):
Congratulations on making friends with your e-reader. I tend to go to events in town like booksignings put on by indie bookstore or the library. Listening to the authors read their own print and tell about how they chose that direction helps me understand more about the craft and art of writing.
Re: Burning Up (2:06pm September 16, 2010):
I find that romance strikes a chord where those relationship issues and joys come out to play and mix it up a bit. I started with the books by Georgette Heyer.
Re: Rebel (2:04pm September 16, 2010):
The supernatural can scare me, so I tend to pick other books up first.
Re: Uptown (2:03pm September 16, 2010):
I do not believe stories have to have a color, but some do anyways usually to make a point about race or ethnicity.
Re: Feline Fatale (2:01pm September 16, 2010):
I love reading about animals especially dogs and cats. Right now I'm reading a fantasy about a wolf in shich they talk and it shows the hierarchy with the Alpha at the top.
Re: Warrior (1:34pm September 11, 2010):
My best fan moment was at a booksigning where they thought I was a Romance writer and were surprised that I just happened to drop in at a favorite indie bookstore, Joseph-Beth Booksellers. Some other happy events are hearing authors read passages from their books with feeling and explaining how they got to the points on the page with research and crafting the novel.
Re: Stolen Son (12:30pm September 10, 2010):
Heroes come from the inside out, since it's their quality of core values that shows. Thanks for the tips on strong heroes.
Re: Desperate Deeds (11:32pm September 9, 2010):
Just saying romance makes me all dreamy and adding suspense to it ups the intensity several notches. I like a good mystery anyday.
Re: Warrior (3:23pm September 6, 2010):
Girl, I like the hot romance part. I can just see the sparks fly as they crash into each other, sometimes on purpose and not mistake.
Re: Royal Blood (2:31pm September 4, 2010):
Write what you can imagine happening at a certain place in time is the essence of fiction writing. Your research sounds thorough and helps anchor the setting in history common to the period. Congratulations on your writing and tips for beginners and old-timers who need to remember what it's like to touch words and make them real.
Re: From The Dead (2:27pm September 4, 2010):
Inspiration from thsoe who've overcome tough obstacles makes me thankful and amazed at all the good in my life.
Re: Dark Deception (6:14pm September 2, 2010):
Thanks for keeping on going after the first rejection, not everyone has the same opinion, taste or outlook. Comparing a manuscript to driving takes me down the road of curves, sharp turns and ultimate destinations. I tend to get lost easily and add extra drive-by time to give breathing space.
Re: Thrilled to Death (6:09pm September 2, 2010):
Crime stories can be so close to the truth that it takes my breath away turning the pages and scaring myself half to death.
Re: Atlantis Betrayed (6:56pm August 31, 2010):
Congratulations on your book and the Big Move. It's finally time to toss or pass on all those things you were saving for someday so you won't have to look at them again.
Re: Guarding Grace (6:25pm August 30, 2010):
Vampires are super popular now and gives me the chills. They are monsters too close to humans, but don't keep me up at night.
Re: Dark Warrior Untamed (8:21pm August 27, 2010):
Your rationalizations for staying connected to your manuscript are close to the heart. When you're in the flow, the book seems to be words flying out of your fingers onto a page and sometimes amaze even yourself. The emotional attachment to others is what keeps me turning the pages to see who's going to do what and if it's out of character and unpredictable, how far can you go?
Re: Deadly Fear (6:26pm August 26, 2010):
I like reading about monsters but can't imagine meeting one in real life, because I believe, at least for me, it would go badly. The danger is what intrigues me and makes turning the pages a breathless endeavor.
Re: Bond With Me (8:55pm August 25, 2010):
Russia reminds me of Barishnikov(ballet) and Dr. Zhivago (movie.) They all seem so foreign and intriguing.
Re: Amelia Island's Velvet Undertow (9:33pm August 19, 2010):
I've learned that women use 6000 words a day while men use 2000. So no wonder they have difficulty understanding us. Also men want to solve problems and offer solutions while women just want to be heard. By hearing ourselves think outloud, we may come to a decision. Ladies have to train their men as to what is their idea of romance. It still makes me laugh to know my sister-in-law received a fire extinguisher for a birthday gift. Bookmarking a passage in a book or leaving it open sounds like a good plan without being pushy.
Re: Hero (8:21pm August 18, 2010):
Checking out books for me is more than just reading the reviews, although they can be tantalizing. I give a look at the beginning, crack open the middle and if I can stand it, peek at the almost ending.
Re: Rule's Bride (8:47pm August 16, 2010):
I love seeries books, but sometimes read them out of order. That sounds funny.
Re: Roast Mortem (4:07pm August 15, 2010):
I have a pint of blueberries begging to be put into a stack of pancakes. I used to call it travelling food because of ordering it as a prep for a trip at the first restaurant stop of the day. Great website and trailers.
Re: Hell, Yeah (1:59pm August 11, 2010):
Love to read interviews, sounds like porch neighbors getting into each others business.
Re: A Highland Duchess (9:22pm August 10, 2010):
Persevering,you knew all along about the need and desire to write. The craft only works when you immerse yourself in it. Not so much magic, but sometimes the words seem to fly from your fingers and write themselves and evolve.
Re: The 1st Wife (1:29pm August 9, 2010):
News of more than one marriage at a time has been on the increase. Your book can shed some truth lights on this intriguing bad boy habit.
Re: Such A Pretty Face (7:05pm August 5, 2010):
I agree about people wanting change and then in the process don't like so much where it gets them. However sometimes even I'm surprised.
Re: The Smuggler And The Society Bride (9:44pm August 4, 2010):
Passion gets me every time. I love reading about all that good news.
Re: The Goddess of Fried Okra (11:28am August 3, 2010):
When I learned first about reincarnation was at a the public library. The lady who spoke insisted she was from Babylonian time and had the jewelry to prove it. I'm still a bit skeptical, but the solid evidence was pretty strong backed up by references to books on that time.
Re: The Unexpected Son (8:25pm August 2, 2010):
Indian writing is hot right now. Last year one in my writers group had words which explained some of the culture in a familial context and we couldn't wait to get more.
Re: Veil Of Night (3:01pm July 31, 2010):
RWA sounds like the place to be if you're at all romantic or like to mingle around romance. It's great to let loose a little at a gathering of like-minds.
Re: Monster in Miniature (2:17pm July 30, 2010):
Books can have their faces in many categories and at times, I can't figure out which is the lead genre. Like crosstraining, it's a good thing to get out of your comfort zone and attempt a little something different.
Re: The Ark (6:40pm July 29, 2010):
Stories have a way of arcing or arching into the future. I get goosebumps thinking how close some predictions come.
Re: Barely A Lady (6:36pm July 29, 2010):
Villains give you someplace to throw your anger and find more ways to be disgusted with their actions. I do enjoy reading about a despicable hero.
Re: Knight Of Passion (2:44pm July 23, 2010):
I like my heroes strong, handsome and able.
Re: Love and Scandal (6:46pm July 22, 2010):
I love a good historical romance. Thanks for the info on affairs of the heart.
Re: Moonshine (2:09pm July 20, 2010):
Sidekick is a sweet name for a buddy who you can depend on for clothes, advice and may march alongside you.
Re: Tomb With A View (3:33pm July 19, 2010):
I believe in ghosts when eerie things are happening or there's too much coincidence for it to be anything else. I knew a family who celebrated All Hallows Eve instead of Halloween and I'm certain that their home had extrasensory happenings as it was set back from the road and no one would go near.
Re: Ice Cold (2:36pm July 18, 2010):
Tess Gerritsen did a booksigning at Joseph Beth Booksellers in Legacy Village, Lyndhurst, Ohio and kept us mesmerized with a focus on forensics and medical know-how.
Re: Suck It, Wonder Woman! (2:59pm July 17, 2010):
I didn't know guys stood in line except for drinks or women.
Re: Revenge for Old Times' Sake (2:57pm July 17, 2010):
I enjoyed the "There's a man in my bed." It reminds me of the time my grandma was in assisted living and a guy would wander into her room and lay down on her bed. She'd call up my mom and complain there's a man in my bed. I think it gave her something to talk about, but the guy was confused and misplaced his bed and his room, so there was really nothing going on.
Re: Fortunate Harbor (1:59pm July 15, 2010):
Friendships have a way of growing up with you and also you grow out of a few. When you start one, you never know which way it will evolve. I know that people who have known me in various decades of my life only know what I've revealed at the time, the rest is heresay.
Re: Murder in the Abstract (12:45pm July 14, 2010):
There's something about bad "boys" which draws me like a magnet in stories. However in real life, I let them find their own headlines.
Re: Ice Cold (12:45pm July 13, 2010):
Thanks for reminding me of true accounts which hold lots of mystery and intrigue. I love your medical take matrixed over the storylines.
Re: To Conquer a Highlander (8:54pm July 12, 2010):
I am a book collector and am rarely seen without one in my bag.
Re: The 1st Wife (2:26pm July 9, 2010):
When I need to know something for sure, I go on a walk and try to be near water. Both restore a sense of wonder and inspiration and I find that my peotry reflects back what is in the present and what I put in place to surround myself.
Re: Money, Honey (8:15pm July 7, 2010):
Money honey sounds sweet to me. I don't know about twists on genres. Is that a crossover between categories?
Re: Crush On You (4:00pm July 6, 2010):
I enjoy stories where the characters grow instead of staying flat. The sense of aliveness keeps me turning the page to see what's happening in the future. I do love when there's a future in the works.
Re: Dark Embers (11:27am July 3, 2010):
What a great interview. You've showed me a way to make my characters more vibrant.
Re: A Cutthroat Business (11:26am July 3, 2010):
What ifs always fascinate me. I want to delve into them and solve the mysteries or at least imagine a new journey.
Re: Her Sheik Protector (8:04pm July 1, 2010):
When I get home, I'll check out some first lines. Usually it's a good idea to have some action in the first line or paragraph to draw the reader in.
Re: The Fire Lord's Lover (4:39pm June 30, 2010):
I'd start with the gloves and then from the top going down. Undressing sounds very layered, but sexy.
Re: The Master & the Muses (8:33pm June 28, 2010):
Flaws make heroes seem not so perfect like in real life. I like mine to be tough and rough on the outside, yet have a heart and show compassion at irregular intervals.
Re: Dark Flame (1:49pm June 27, 2010):
An intern can be invaluable to mentor. I always learn more from people I teach. Hearing authors read passages from books and about their "book life" keeps me coming back for more.
Re: Hidden Wives (4:57pm June 26, 2010):
I love I'm All Steamy by Louisa Edwards, because it has a lot to do with food and spunk. I don't get into slumps, since I have withdrawel symptoms if books aren't nearby.
Re: Sworn To Protect (4:55pm June 26, 2010):
I like having different heroines and not always the same old role. The freshness is something that makes me turn the pages quicker to see what fix she gets in and out of.
Re: Fatal Affair (10:34am June 24, 2010):
A tough exterior with insides that show a bit of compassion is what I'm looking for in a hero. Also, I'm amazed anytime the words I'm sorry escape from men's mouths, because "Love means never saying your sorry" a quote from the movie Love Story. But if that were true, a lot of ladies would be unhappy since we need to hear that occasionally. So a guy with a heart under a tough shell is my idea of a hero to wrangle with at least in a book.
Re: Tempting a Proper Lady (7:44pm June 23, 2010):
I believe romance novels are popular with women because they can live out a fantasy or a "what if _____." And then fill in the blank with just about anything you can imagine, but the novel gives you something to get the mind going down a sweet valley where there will be trying times and obstacles, but somehow the relationship manages to come out OK with hardly any scratches.
Re: The Devil She Knows (12:59pm June 22, 2010):
A traveler is more mysterious, but I like to know where a guy hangs his hat. Where there are roots to anchor, I'm more inclined to become attached myself since the setting plays more of an important role and is almost a character itself.
Re: Summer Sanctuary (2:38pm June 21, 2010):
The Giver was a strange book that as parents we had to sign off for our teens required reading. It did raise a number of questions. A Wrinkle in Time and the silly poetry in A Light in the Attic were some of the twins favorites. Flowers for Algernon was required reading in the 60's and was evocative and sad. I don't know what all the fuss is about, since banned books compell kids to get their hands on them since there's something exciting about reading illicit or underground books.
Re: Smooth Talking Stranger (2:47pm June 20, 2010):
My dad is gone as of last year, so I'll remember all the helpful parts and the hikes he liked to lead family and friends on.
Re: The Lies We Told (6:34pm June 18, 2010):
Evocative trailer makes you think of your own family secrets and who might tell and break the pact made long ago. I love the glimpse of the two girls peeking between their fingers, like no one can tell.
Re: Stolen Son (12:15pm June 17, 2010):
Without challenges or conflicts, reading wouldn't be a page turning event.
Re: Dragon Unmasked (8:48pm June 16, 2010):
My reading drops off only when there's too many other things to do. I carry a book around with me just about everywhere.
Re: Death Threads (1:22pm June 14, 2010):
Sewing is such a great topic for a series besides all the great food, quilting and knitting ones. They all seem to involve solving a mystery about someone inadvertently or deliberately being killed. Good luck with a nother one in the fabric and tapestry of good reading.
Re: Crush On You (11:59am June 10, 2010):
I was in favorite business casual clothes when I met my SO who was talking to my girlfriend when I came back from another room.
Re: The 1st Wife (9:39am June 9, 2010):
Small towns feel neighborly, because you know or get to know everybody's business. I grew up in a town of 13,000 and it didn't seem that big.
Re: Desire Me (11:44am June 8, 2010):
The scavenger hunts from my teens and before were fun, knocking on doors, asking for random small items, and crossing them off the list and racing back home. I remember sending my kids on similar missions and the looks on their faces told a lot about the effort they put in the competition. Thanks for reminding me of those times.
Re: Guardian (3:52pm June 7, 2010):
I like feisty sassy women, they make everyday life quite an occasion with spunk. Thanks for taking us through your travelog on settings that have possiblities and vistas of imagination.
Re: Blown Away (3:06pm June 6, 2010):
I read plenty on my own. Yet like to read for book discussions sponsored by the library.
Re: The Making Of A Duchess (10:12am June 3, 2010):
I do love historical romance. At a Winking Lizard in the 70's, each table had a phone where you could contact the number at another table. You chose who to contact, but the fabrications still make me giggle.
Re: I Love This Bar (10:10am June 3, 2010):
I would think, pinch me but not too hard. Is this for real? I like the part about her heart. It raced. I like the pacing in the exciting parts, the sentences are short as the action flies.
Re: Blown Away (2:53pm May 30, 2010):
Three-ways in a triology intrigue me. I love the continuity in a series.
Re: Die Twice (5:06pm May 29, 2010):
I thought once would do it, but Die Twice is an intriguing title that I would pick up.
Re: His At Night (4:03pm May 25, 2010):
History goes down so much easier when it's the background for a romance.
Re: Band Of Angels (7:04pm May 24, 2010):
I never knew research could be a new name for bolting. I thought it was an escape from the everyday and in a hurry to get someplace more promising. thnaks for sharing your ventures and wanderings relabelled as searching for research again.
Re: Lover's Knot (11:34am May 22, 2010):
Research is the backbone of any piece of fiction set historical in a place and time. Without a frame to anchor a story, it can go anywhere, but eventually you have to choose and allow the reader to follow.
Re: The White Shadow Saga (6:16pm May 20, 2010):
The three P's of Professionalism, Persistence and Passion are for every writer, not just fiction.
Re: Sex And The Single Earl (6:14pm May 20, 2010):
Small towns is where it's at, because the people know each other and their business. Developing characters, the connections are easier to make, since somehere along the way they cross paths.
Re: Web Of Lies (7:32pm May 17, 2010):
Web Of Lies has a great title, I know a few who practice this deceit. Power in the female form has been repressed for years. Thanks for making a noticeable difference.
Re: A Thread So Thin (2:49pm May 16, 2010):
Although I didn't have an imaginery friend, my imagination took off on adventures anyways to make regular life more interesting. My best friend is one who wants to hear my news of the day and in turn, I hear hers. It's a comfort thing.
Re: Haunting Warrior (10:50pm May 12, 2010):
I'm glad time travel isn't real, but if I could be around kings and knights and other royalty, I might pick up a few ideas about chivalry and loyalty to a sovereign country.
Re: Silent Truth (10:48pm May 12, 2010):
WITSEC frightens me to even think about, so there's no way I'd step up for that duty.
Re: A Thread So Thin (2:16pm May 8, 2010):
Reading a plethora of books, occasionally YA books are in the mix. They remind me of youthful notions and how people aren't pigeon-holed in their thinking quite yet. They're still in formation.
Re: The Jaguar Prince (8:53pm May 7, 2010):
Now that it's spring even the birds get up early and sing about it. Then I get up and hunt for them out my windows.
Re: Touching Darkness (7:25pm May 5, 2010):
The best thing about my job is helping people take care of themselves. The worst is the hours are irregular and I like balance in my life.
Re: In Shelter Cove (7:21pm May 5, 2010):
Oops, I meant what instead of wheat in my comments otherwise it seems like cooking up trouble.
Re: In Shelter Cove (7:19pm May 5, 2010):
I like guys who have a masculine edge and know wheat they're after. A gentleman who speaks the truth most of the time instead of stretching it gets my vote of a decent civilized person. However when they're rough around the edges, the contrasts and conflicts increase and so does the pace of the story and action they revolve in and around. Like a bull in a china cabinet, the differences make for lively debates.
Re: Think Twice (4:54pm May 2, 2010):
Cozies are a favorite of mine.
Re: Chasing Perfect (12:48pm April 28, 2010):
I'm a city girl, but like taking walks at the nature center. My growing up town I thought was small, because it had the neighborly effect. But it had 13,000 people.
Re: Just Like Me, Only Better (4:32pm April 27, 2010):
It always makes me laugh when wishes for what to do when grownup is asked of a child. When I see it match up to what they're doing towards making their dreams come true, then I really believe along with them. To write is a solitary endeavor, but after words are in hand, that's when the editing begins. It's hard to rewrite without outside intervention (other people telling what they think you mean to make it more readable).
Re: A Thread So Thin (7:06pm April 26, 2010):
Second guessing yourself takes a lot of energy away from your present day. Reliving the past is like Ground Hog's Day, the movie, in an ever circling loop.
Re: The Teaberry Strangler (1:36pm April 25, 2010):
When I find a "new" to me author with a series, I can't wait to follow the main or secondary characters on through their living or backwards in time. I also read book reviews and write a few of my own and decide what sounds good in the genres I love. As the years go by, I'm increasing the boundaries and going into fields that did not interest me before.
Re: Rule's Bride (3:00pm April 23, 2010):
Three bride stories in a row, count me in.
Re: In For A Penny (2:59pm April 23, 2010):
A tough critique is humbling, yet it's one person's opinion. If everybody else notices the same confusion, then maybe it needs to be reworked. Afterall, most writing makes some point clearer or conveys a feeling or mood. As a writer, you know what you want to say, but not everybody is coming from your corner. I welcome critiques in order to learn more and make my written thoughts a bit more understandable.
Re: Beautiful People (8:10pm April 21, 2010):
Love the playful arguing and the give and oh so heavy taking that covers the dilemmas. My mouth hurts from smiling so hard.
Re: Silent Truth (8:42pm April 19, 2010):
I'm passionalte about my friends and family. Listening and encouraging to take care of each other is my purpose.
Re: Building Iphone Apps With Html, CSS, And Javascript (4:36pm April 18, 2010):
I give books a good try by reading the first page and cracking open the middle and skimming a page.
Re: Demonkeepers (6:00pm April 14, 2010):
They all sound amazing, but Lucius, being the underdog gets my heart beating faster.
Re: The Mage In Black (1:18pm April 12, 2010):
Growing up, I read whole sections of the library and knew when a new book was on the shelf. As a teen I became fascinated by authors who talked about the books they wrote and research for writing their stories.
Re: My Own Personal Soap Opera (4:56pm April 9, 2010):
I took a screenwriting course where everybody was so serious. A good belly laugh always gets me every time and it's a form of exercise. I like when characters play and stumble.
Re: If I Were Your Woman (4:38pm April 9, 2010):
I tend to remain extremely calm while asking the hard questions on touchy subjects. You know I like to find out where the mind is at and the reasons behind the behavior in real life and with characters in books.
Re: On Shadow Beach (7:27pm April 6, 2010):
First I pick a book by it's title, then the cover and finally I skim a few pages at the beginning and flip to the middle and see where it takes me. If the book passes "The Test", I carry it away.
Re: The Darcy Cousins (6:36pm April 5, 2010):
It's kindof creepy to think that someone you create as character takes on a life that unrolls and unravels as time and settings go by. You have a chance to direct traffic and change direction, but I'll bet you'd rather see where the plots heading before cutting them off mid-sentence.
Re: Just Fooling Around (7:24pm April 2, 2010):
When we were kids we switched around the white sugar and salt, but gave our actions away with all the giggling and big eyes not looking at the shaker or sugar bowl.
Re: An Earl to Enchant (11:21am March 31, 2010):
How about Columbo with his "...and I just one more question," as he turns when you think he's leaving the room and can predict without fail this line's gonna happen.
Re: Flirting With Forever (1:09pm March 29, 2010):
Thanks for letting readers in on choosing your covers. I never knew how much work went into picking the match for the writing. The last ones were all gorgeous and the shoes to die for.
Re: Almost Home (4:17pm March 24, 2010):
At home I like hardbacks, but when on the go, like the light weight of paperbacks. As a teen, I took a lot of books on my first backpack trip. After about an hour, my shoulders were groaning and those hard books got farmed out to everybody else, so we could get on with the hike. I've never forgotten the trip or how "heavy" books can be.
Re: On The Steamy Side (3:57pm March 23, 2010):
Nicholas Spark's A Walk To Remember had kids back at high school. I can't wait to get my hands on this new book of yours and see what spunky business those characters are up to.
Re: The Highlander's Sword (1:58pm March 19, 2010):
Happy Luck of the Irish to You and may you find that elusive celtic charm.
Re: Something About You (1:56pm March 19, 2010):
The TV shows Castle, Monk, The Odd Couple were instances where opposites attract. I love the conflicts and discussions (arguments). The resolutions are a bit of a win for everyone.
Re: Do They Know I'm Running? (5:20pm March 18, 2010):
Thanks for inviting us in to how you get those creative characters moving. Music to convey a mood gets me in line with the characters I want to create and the dialogue that's key to moving the action.
Re: Forget Me Not (8:21pm March 16, 2010):
Yep. We all need a bit of whimsy and goofiness now and again. I especially like art is this style.
Re: The Stolen Crown (8:19pm March 16, 2010):
Historical fiction is one of my favorites. It keeps my imagination going. I remember an author with the last name of Holt who wrote in this genre and I kept the books because they were so good.
Re: The You I Never Knew (3:17pm March 14, 2010):
Laughing feels a whole lot better than crying, but sometimes it so hard that my eyes water as my belly rolls.
Re: Naked Edge (5:13pm March 13, 2010):
WOW. To have survivied the fall and come out OK took some work. Thanks for using the first person POV and applying your slip to the novel.
Re: Montana Magic (11:04am March 12, 2010):
It Could Always Be Worse is the name of a kids book and coming from this POV, imagining the worst is where the creative juices flow for both the writer and reader. If everything was vanilla, it would be a very plain world indeed.
Re: One Good Dog (12:37pm March 8, 2010):
I was the costume advisor for Sylvia,a community play with a dog as one of the main characters. It was all in good fun what with going to the park and the barking and heading over to the boy dog named Bowser who was merely implied and not seen. Oh, by the way, it was a person on all fours, as the dog. I enjoy learning from another's point of view, including cat and dog buddies.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (10:59am March 8, 2010):
I'm spellbound listening to stories told by family, friends and especially their relatives, because that's where you learn more about them and the foundations for thinking as individuals influenced by groups who don't always remain anonymous. And, in the retelling of the same stories, facts become richer, embroidered and embellished to suit the ears of the listener and to build up a sense of facts to prove the case by the teller.
Re: SEALed with a Ring (8:26pm March 5, 2010):
Hey I took a set of ballroom dancing lessons with my husband at the time and he had lead and left feet. We had to pass a test to pay more money to take further lessons and of course, we passed with a lot of sweat. I fall back on those steps while watching all the ballroom dance steps on TV. It made me confident to try it for myself and put the lessons to good use.
Re: Truly, Madly (2:17pm March 3, 2010):
Love has a spark that can happen at first sight, but generally develops over time. One is attracted to a person more than another, yet it's hard to pin down. It's kindof like when you catch someone's eye and hold the glance a bit longer, because you like what you see and desire to know more.
Re: Lake Magic (8:38pm March 2, 2010):
I dreamed of being a nurse at age 8 with a picture and merit badges in Scouts. Then after so much time riding buses, the writing began on the bouncy ride home. Diaries and writing the sadness out used to be my creative outlet. After a long hiatus, now belong to Cleveland State University Writers Group (free)and 2 poetry groups, my writing gets closer to readable. People are out there to help you with your craft.
Re: Seeing Red (1:51pm February 28, 2010):
I have an audio mystery to listen to on my next big trip. I just keep going through my stack of books, picking the ones with the best first pages.
Re: The Mane Squeeze (5:04pm February 27, 2010):
I just read whenever I have a free spell or to relax. I, too, am thrilled finding new authors and stretching the genres.
Re: Cowboy Trouble (11:21am February 27, 2010):
Great how you changed gears and went with your heart, even though there are no guarantees in writing. Setting a goal of pages per day like Julie Cameron's The Artists Way, following a favorite author and taking apart the story structure, you can see the craft. I'm glad you stuck with it and marched with your passions.
Re: The Texan's Happily-Ever-After (8:50pm February 25, 2010):
I like twists on themes and surprises like the ones in the movie Shutter Island, which after leaving a sneak preview last week, everybody was still discussing the ending. The conflict is what I'm most interested in along with problem solving and seeing where critical thoughts are happening.
Re: The Betrayal Of The Blood Lily (4:59pm February 20, 2010):
I don't really go anywhere, except in my mind and that doesn't cost much besides a bit of time. Usually grabbing a book is all it takes and I've got a few tomes going already. Yesterday I wrote a poem about sunsets that was workshopped by 20 and received 8 handwritten suggestions.
Re: Chick with a Charm (5:50pm February 19, 2010):
I have a soft spot for both, although I cross the street when faced with any of the dogs that have jaws that lock. They all seem to have personalities close to their owners and sometimes the same mannerisms in body language. The longer one is around a cat or dog the easier it is to read their mood. We had a dog that had a vocabulary of 50 words including old and new sock (these had a knot in them whereby we played tug-of-war with the dog ferociously defending his spot. Both dogs and cats are good listeners and rarely voice an opinion of your discussion. Oh, another thing is they reduce blood pressure and can calm you down in a matter of minutes by their presence and especially when stroking their fur. I like to discover the special spot where they love to be scratched. I remember times when the cat would purr and weave between my legs especially after a long trip. The dog would go bananas doing his own stroking machine with my hand in one place and the dog going back and forth. Looking for treats and when hungry you can always tell when pets want attention, they are intense with focus and won't leave you alone until satisfied that their needs are met. It reminds me of a few friends, I've met.
Re: Kayla's Daddy (1:45pm February 18, 2010):
I enjoy hearing where ideas come from. Sometimes a conversation overheard is enough to set the mind racing and stewing.
Re: Promise Me Tonight (2:54pm February 12, 2010):
The Professor is first with his smart brain and all that stuff he wants to explain. The Charmer runs a close second because I never get tired of hearing sweet nothings. He's overflowing with romance to sway my mind his way. The powers of persuasion are a force to be reckoned with in his hands.
Re: Raining Cat Sitters And Dogs (1:30pm February 10, 2010):
I can't think of anything I like more than writing, except chocolate. Thanks for the tips and enjoyed your Kitty Litter blog.
Re: Tragedy At Two (2:01pm February 9, 2010):
I enjoy reading detective stories and helping to solve problems. I like guessing and piling up the clues.
Re: Island Of The Swans (12:34pm February 8, 2010):
As a writer, I soak up tips and other shortcuts. Making sense from stories I always look for the point(s) being made.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (3:32pm February 7, 2010):
The fact that anthologies are based on a theme and you get different viewpoints interests me. I like to discover different authors teamed up with my favorites and check out their style of writing.
Re: Triumph in Arms (1:45pm February 6, 2010):
Romance novels and fairy tails stretch the truth into an imagined world. It's not supposed to be exactly real because the element of embellishing would be gone along with all the shimmering glitter.
Re: Viking in Love (5:12pm February 4, 2010):
I like your Cajun Cowboy series, but I'll jump ship and try some Vikings for a change. Discovering a new author is like getting a present that keeps on giving.
Re: The Phoenix Charm (3:45pm February 3, 2010):
I've read a few books on celtic designs and they're quite intricate, almost a lost art.
Re: Catch Of A Lifetime (3:55pm February 2, 2010):
You made me smile with "your punny." Thanks for spicing things up around here.
Re: Drive Time (4:22pm February 1, 2010):
My cousin asked that question of me when I guessed she was pregnant over the phone. I could hear the change in her voice. I didn't divulge the secret until she told everybody herself. As a nurse, mediator and a good listener, I've heard a big share of secrets. I only tell when it's dangerous to keep quiet. Love the blog and still enjoy the book Prime Time.
Re: The Secret Of Joy (11:04am January 28, 2010):
Secrets have a way of coming out when you least expect them.
Re: Hold On Tight (1:14pm January 26, 2010):
I look up words when trying to make them when challenged in Scrabble. In writing, usually I go with the intention of the sentence and figure out the meaning in context. I like the challenge of rare words and guessing. For kids, when learning to read, if they reach 3 fingers of unknown words on the page, they are beyond their comprehension and need assistance of a dictionary or live person.
Re: The Secret Agent's Surprises (9:57am January 25, 2010):
I love writing and likewise reading, too. I find myself helping with poetry and manuscripts when friends have questions about readability and flow by asking my own questions and line editing and rearranging sentences while staying in the voice of the writer.
Re: Down By The River (2:05pm January 24, 2010):
I like reading series, but like to have a cheat sheet for the characters in the front of the book in order to keep them straight. Sometimes I read them out of order, yet like continuity.
Re: Maya's Gold (8:53pm January 22, 2010):
Write from the heart what you're passionate about and your story will appeal to your senses. It takes time to learn how to structure and craft writing into some semblance of order. Great tips. My writers group would be proud of you.
Re: Dead Head (12:56pm January 21, 2010):
Go ahead, red is a favorite for dress-up days and wearing it is a real perk.
Re: Succubi Like It Hot (6:31pm January 20, 2010):
Camping on a roadtrip to West Virginia and shooting the rapids of the Yogiheny River was one I'll never forget during my college years.
Re: Love Story (6:28pm January 20, 2010):
I remember seeing the movie made from the book on a snowy night and couldn't wait to go ice skating with my date. It was so romantic. Erich Segal had special insight and a magic touch in translating feelings for men and women.
Re: Getting Lucky (1:21pm January 19, 2010):
I love series and there are no cons I can see with following characters through all sorts of dilemmas and resolutions.
Re: A Bolt From The Blue (1:19pm January 19, 2010):
I can picture you surrounded by bottles and recycling, using them around the home. Ideas can usually be recycled into projects you hadn't thought of before.
Re: Forbidden Falls (1:12pm January 17, 2010):
Techie is a name I got with my first computer class, outside of work, in 2004. They thought I knew a lot, but a demonstration and experts at hand for questions are key. I have a PC and a cell phone and upgrading to a smartphone this week and will go to the store for tips and direction. I tend to write on any paper available, edit and then save a copy in Word on the computer.
Re: The Keepers Of Sulbreth (3:34pm January 15, 2010):
I like when the title and cover syncronize with what's inside the book. Character names help conjure up a mood where I throw a lot of weight on place historical setting. I enjoy imagining how the characters got their names and if they are suitable.
Re: Forget Me Not (11:46am January 14, 2010):
You do find inner strength when tested, but it helps to have a few moments when things are going smoothly. Here's hoping that your ship's come in.
Re: Sleep No More (8:50pm January 12, 2010):
My brother sleepwalked into a neighbor's tent one time and asked a stranger to move over.
Re: Sleep No More (8:46pm January 12, 2010):
I've known sleep talkers and my sister was one. She thought a lamp cord was a snake and took awhile to convince that it wasn't anything bad. My sister never awakened, but carried on a conversation she never remembered. Oh, the powers of sleep. I've also known people who fall out of bed and stay asleep. Hopefully, they land on a rug.
Re: Come Hell Or High Water (1:55pm January 10, 2010):
My perfect day is when everything falls into place effortlessly along with some sunshine to warm and brighten. Writing for a spell and then to top it off, reading in bed one of many books I've got going.
Re: Not My Daughter (3:59pm January 8, 2010):
The thing about research is to check the source and depend more heavily on the ones you've used in the past. The imagination has no boundaries and is not bound by restrictions. There's a believablity factor involved and running it past your gut and sounding it out amongst experts helps, too.
Re: My Dearest Mr. Darcy (7:18pm January 7, 2010):
When Lucy told Desi Arnaz that she was going to have a baby while he was conducting his orchestra. Then when Lucille Ball had her first baby on the TV show and everybody was rooting for her and saying "Ahhh." But Desi said, "I, yi, yi," and went back to leading the band with a grin on his face.
Re: Come Hell Or High Water (8:14pm January 6, 2010):
Mistakes aren't so great. They're more eye-opening than anything else. Thanks for the blog. I especially like the horizontal part and the one more thing..."There's a problem" reminds me of the "Oh, and I have one more question" like Columbo on TV right before he left the room where he was interrogating a suspect.
Re: Shattered (3:55pm January 2, 2010):
You're so right about writing goals. When written down, they'e got a better chance of happening - the precontemplative stage. My list is always longer than possible to achieve, but a girl can dream.
Re: Angel Lane (1:42pm December 30, 2009):
A New Year for dreaming and hoping that chocolate has it's own food group. I thnk it's easier to live one day at a time and to adjust your horizons in line with what you're putting in place each day. Here's to your future endeavors, may they be tasty and soul-satisfying.
Re: Breakfast In Bed (7:26pm December 28, 2009):
I enjoy how the couple completed each other's thoughts and made sure that no parts were left out of the story. when you sit back and watch, a lot can be revealed if you keep your mouth closed.
Re: Twenties Girl (4:06pm December 26, 2009):
Anywhere is exotic if you put your mind to it. I like learning about different settings and cultural traditions especially in this holiday season.
Re: Searching For Pemberley (8:36pm December 22, 2009):
I enjoy reading about various aspects of JA's time and characters' lives going forward from the end of her stories.
Re: Paraworld Zero (2:58pm December 21, 2009):
My dad was a fireman and I know how you feel about your life up in flames. I love reading about interview and the preparation beforehand so you can ask intelligent questions and also the ones no one else will ask, but people want to know anyways.
Re: Mennonite Community Cookbook (4:18pm December 19, 2009):
Bite-size snowball cookies crumble deliciously when popped in the mouth and cover your clothes like it's snowing confectioner's sugar. Decorating sugar cookies, from a recipe with sour cream added, crowned with royal icing tinted various colors. Placing the silver balls and sprinkling with coarse colored sugar before the frosting dries takes time and makes for fond memories of my mom, grandma and kids around the table. We stored those cookies in tins and flat boxes with waxed paper in between the layers.
Re: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings (4:06pm December 19, 2009):
I think it's a tie, but I know Dumbledore better from the Harry Potter series and movies.
Re: Gentlemen Prefer Succubi (12:46pm December 18, 2009):
I like the idea of Angel Bark. I love chocolate and look forward to the holidays when plenty is laying around tempting me.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (8:23pm December 17, 2009):
You made me smile. I love sharing funny poems. Your writing has laugh appeal.
Re: The Beautiful Being (3:45pm December 17, 2009):
Inspiration to take writing stuffed in dresser drawers by a friend woke me up to my storing up words for someday. Something can be learned from the stories we tell once or repeatedly by noticing the reaction to the different versions and seeing if there's still an audience ready to listen.
Re: Wild Heart (11:28am December 14, 2009):
Writing isn't the hardest part of this industry. You're so right about loss of control, but hope for the best and keep taking steps in the right direction as if your dreams can and will come through. What you tell yourself often enough becomes part of you, so tell yourself good stuff.
Re: Remembering Ashby (4:51pm December 11, 2009):
Anything Scottish has my vote. I love reading about the interactions between the clans and the lilt in their brogues.
Re: The Killing Hands (4:41pm December 11, 2009):
This reminds me of the Pick Your Favorite Ending For A Book where 2 or 3 choices were offered and each headed in a different direction. Only thing, this is on a whole bigger scale. Great idea.
Re: Love in Translation (8:44pm December 10, 2009):
I've visited abroad for a 3 week, 8 country capital hop in 1970 and learned about many different cultures. The Passion Play in Oberammuegau Germany was amazing and only happens once a decade. We had English translations for the 4 hour play and paid attention to the gestures of the actors, drama in the sky and the birds flying about. I've gone back to England on a canal boat cruise where we worked the locks and mingled with the British.
Re: Sex Drive (12:49pm December 2, 2009):
I love following characters through series books. You've got my attention anytime there's "Rules."
Re: Knit The Season (5:08pm November 28, 2009):
I learned to knit in Home Ec in school. My gramma also knit clothes for dolls and made afghans and slippers. I picked up knitting again as an adult, making my dad a scarf and hat with a dark stripe over a pale blue background. During jury duty, my knitting stayed by the security people who wanted me to take the yarn off the needles. I refused to take apart all that hard work, and it was still there when I claimed it later.
Re: Take Me For A Ride (8:38pm November 25, 2009):
I remember the year that someone forgot to take out the gizzards. It was me and boy was I embarrassed.
Re: It Happened One Night (9:44am November 23, 2009):
Writing is a solitary expedition. Getting the story out fresh as it happens in the writer's head takes discipline and needs space for resounding ideas.
Re: The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening (9:33am November 23, 2009):
I don't like the ideas about smackdowns, but it sure makes fighting and taking sides more interesting. The power plays makes for exciting writing.
Re: Prime Evil (4:51pm November 22, 2009):
I'm always eager to write down those stories in my head, but when driving, I have to hold that thought for a bit. I mull it around and keep the essence.
Re: The Monuments Men (5:53pm November 20, 2009):
It gives me goosebumps to read about true service in action to "Save the Arts."
Re: The Splendor Falls (5:48pm November 20, 2009):
The name, Splendor Falls, makes it sound like it's a stupendous place. I enjoy the medical references, too.
Re: Dark Legacy (3:05pm November 18, 2009):
Seeing others respond because you listen with all your senses is one of the qualities of a shaman. You are inspiring many.
Re: The Accidental Werewolf (5:46pm November 17, 2009):
Listening to authors at booksignings and reading blogs has expanded my range of books. I used to never pick up science fiction or war, but now give them a try.
Re: The Sari Shop Widow (5:44pm November 17, 2009):
Pointing out great and weak areas in critiques is key to my Writers Group. Readers search for viewpoints outside the norm to better understand relationships. My first writing critique was embarassing, yet I stuck with it. The professor said he only read my mystery manuscript because it was a workshop. It remained a mystery to everybody because it was so distant and nobody could identify with it, except they were encouraging and wanted to know more. So, keep writing was the advice.
Re: Over My Dead Body (2:27pm November 16, 2009):
It's not a holiday unless we have Mom's stuffing, turkey and the works. I remember making cut-out sugar cookies with Grandma Mary first and then Mom. Snipping dates with scissors was one of the jobs she gave us. Decorating with royal frosting and colored sugar and tiny silver balls made cookies special.
Re: Prime Evil (2:22pm November 16, 2009):
NPR this past weekend compared the difference between werewolves and vampires. I liked learning about translucency with vampires and that they select their victims kindof like a list made for grocery shopping.
Re: Kill Zone (12:44pm November 14, 2009):
Nod agreement for this post. Fairy Godmother's are so ethereal, you'd think they were just in the imagination.
Re: Love You To Death (12:41pm November 14, 2009):
When first perousing a book, I take a few pages to see if the characters are ones I can identify with and then check the middle for continuity and interest. Then I put it in my must read now or later pile.
Re: Dead Pan (12:37pm November 14, 2009):
I love mysteries that have food at the top of the list. And the recipes are also a plus.
Re: Bunco Babes Gone Wild (6:07pm November 11, 2009):
I think it's funny when someone says, "Don't look." when that's the thing they can't help doing. A bikini is more revealing than undies in my book.
Re: Kindred In Death (12:32pm November 9, 2009):
I love series books and get attached to the characters pretty fast.
Re: The Princess Bride (11:51am November 9, 2009):
Sorry, I forgot to mention this line was from Charley's Aunt.
Re: The Princess Bride (11:49am November 9, 2009):
I have a favorite line from a book that was made into a play and Joel Grey spoke it at a theater in the round. The line is: "I'm from Brazil ... where the nuts come from!" It still gives me a silly grin.
Re: Wild Blue Under (11:44am November 9, 2009):
Birds fly and pigs have cute snouts, but I don't know about flying unless you add wings.
Re: One Lucky Cowboy (5:34pm November 6, 2009):
Hey thanks for keeping in character. Interviews told from the point of view of main characters help me glean a lot of background and further discovery of motivation, intention and sometimes revenge.
Re: Rainwater (5:30pm November 6, 2009):
Book trailers are also fun for seeing interactions of favorite characters and the artistic flair for the bookcover.
Re: Rainwater (5:28pm November 6, 2009):
I enjoy watching trailers and getting a peek at the upcoming movies. I have several old leather suitcases and plan on using them stacked as end tables or a low coffee table that can store more stuff.
Re: Captive Desires (1:48pm November 2, 2009):
My creative escape is writing and I took a Modern Dance course in college a while ago. More dancing on TV with Dancing With the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance and the yearly ballroom dance contests on PBS help give me the thrill of dance and none of the bruises and injuries. I don't know how they can get up to speed in such a short period of time.
Re: Haunted (4:31pm October 30, 2009):
Love watching Eastwick and learning what kind of trouble they brew up next. Samantha was unforgetable with that tiny nose twitch and Glenda from Wizard of Oz with her ethereal beauty while using her wand to grant wishes. I like the fairy godmothers in Cinderella who seemed more like good witches and had lots of mice helpers.
Re: Final Approach (4:26pm October 30, 2009):
I buy Halloween pencils and the kids look forward to getting them every year. Some tell me their plans for using the pencil. I figure this contributes to creativity. Occasionally I buy candy, but not my favorite kind of candy bar, because it's too tempting and calls me to open the cupboard and check out - how many, how big, calorie count, and my willpower slowly erodes away.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (10:54am October 23, 2009):
I like your play on words. Starving is in the eye of the beholder and many kids tall and short use it to describe not being served a meal and having to throw something edible together for themselves. I enjoyed reading a book by Frank McCourt called 'Tis, which has humor sprinkled throughout many difficulties and missteps. I think it was Little Women by Laura Ingalls Wilder where their family was kind and generous in neighborly sharing with those in need.
Re: Possess Me At Midnight (10:41am October 23, 2009):
I love following characters through series and seeing what kind of trouble they can get in and out of. I enjoy being surprised with the ingenuity getting around roadblocks and which direction they head into next. Turning the pages of books makes me care more deeply about the outcomes, as I get more involved with the action.
Re: Santa Honey (10:31am October 23, 2009):
The Border's nearby almost closed, but got a new lease deal for a short time. I'll be missing it next year, but there's an Indie bookstore kitty-corner that appeals to a lot of people and another box bookstore within a 3 mile radius. It's difficult to keep bookstores going, yet I'm an avid reader and miss each one that goes and the experienced helpful staff that leaves along with it. I love holding real copies of books in my hands. It just feels better and the mood is the thing I'm going after.
Re: The Accidental Family (12:17pm September 23, 2009):
I thoroughly understand how to squeeze in moments of attention to details in writing a few words in between caring for kids and a household. My hat's off to you.
Re: A Christmas Ball (1:33pm September 21, 2009):
My favorite holiday memory is singing carols around the piano and hearing people hum when they forgot the words as the songs progressed.
Re: What I Did For Love (11:42am September 19, 2009):
My preference is reading in bed. Not being interrupted is key, so my voracious reading habits follow me everywhere. I keep books with me for those spare minutes when a page or two can be devoured.
Re: Audrey's Door (4:16pm September 18, 2009):
Many people cringe reading about unpleasant subjects. I think it makes them feel vulnerable, yet glad it's not their own life. And then there's the others who can't find enough sensational news. You can not satisfy everyone even when fiction is too close to the truth.
Re: I Can Make You Love Me (2:56pm September 17, 2009):
Life imitates all that stuff going through your mind. What you surround yourself with becomes your truth. It's sad how many kidnappings are in the news. They pull at your heart to get them solved or figure out a motive, so the family can have tiny semblance of peace.
Re: Guardian (12:07pm September 16, 2009):
Reading this blog gave me a lesson in publishing and even more encouragement to write in my favorite genre. I feel as though I've taken a master class. Thanks for the insider's edge.
Re: Cleopatra's Daughter (8:15pm September 14, 2009):
The news has had a lot lately on the underwater city and bringing up a carved sphinx face. What an intriguing line you go after, descendants who's characters need to be explored and exposed to the light. I like how you keep the thread going.
Re: Table Manners (12:44pm September 7, 2009):
Labor Day is a funny name for a day where goofing off is key. However much I want, cleaning will always be there and books have a nightly rendevous with me.
Re: Highland Rebel (11:57pm September 3, 2009):
Anything to do with Scotland, brogues, kilts and those furry purse things has my vote for a good read. I've been getting lost in books for years.
Re: The Sari Shop Widow (2:19pm September 1, 2009):
I like how you finally started writing in your second half century. India and other cultures outside the USA give me a new set of morals; rules of the land, adhered to by expectation and anchored solidly by tradition.
Re: Red Hot Lies (11:24pm August 30, 2009):
I like both ways. First person seems to be more of a reportage and more personal like the reader knows pretty fast what's going on in the head of the main character in each paragraph.
Re: Dragons Prefer Blondes (10:59am August 29, 2009):
Whether in person or taped on TV or DVD, I'm intrigued by the interplay going on between interviewer and interviewee. Authors on Charlie Rose always reveal a glimpse of daily life that supports and nourishes their souls, making space for the self-contract of writing and honoring the time necessary to compose the craft.
Re: Haunting Beauty (12:28pm August 29, 2009):
I wouldn't know where to begin, so "Nope, can't change a thing because then everything else would change and perhaps me, too."
Re: The Treasures Of Venice (2:30pm August 27, 2009):
Having been to Venice in 1970, I love the setting for your book and will see what matches up from back in 1485. I'll bet the costumes are rich in sumptuousness, beading and brocade.
Re: In the Master's Bed (1:13am August 25, 2009):
Back to school means my son getting up in the morning and fitting homework in somewhere and someday. It entails following a routine and planning backwards to leave enough time for what's likely to happen in the future.
Re: The Fixer Upper (8:49pm August 23, 2009):
My friends look to see what I'm reading. If it's within their tastes, I recommend. I really try to fit the book to the reader.
Re: Tortured (10:11pm August 18, 2009):
Another example of the ingenuity of women and ability to step up and fill big shoes.
Re: Smash Cut (10:46pm August 16, 2009):
A few books are re-readers and I tend to pass them along to friends. I do have quite a supply, sometimes buying the same book twice because it looks so inviting. Then I nod and realize OK my eyes got bigger than my common sense. I have a few first editions and vintage books on one shelf in the built-in bookcases in the living room.
Re: Trust Me (5:18pm August 14, 2009):
I guess when the author wants to edit is different than all those previous edits requested by the editor and others. Like any artist is a piece ever really finished?
Re: Breaking Loose (10:45pm August 13, 2009):
I agree chocolate smoothes over everything even romance gone wrong.
Re: Chosen To Die (1:04pm August 11, 2009):
I love series and how you can follow characters revisiting old predicaments and dabbling, then plowing through new ones.
Re: Since the Surrender (11:02am August 10, 2009):
You know how to make the reader flip through the pages furiously trying to predict where the next taut tension will be. And then the hero leaves and my breath deflates until the next crisis.
Re: The Perfect Couple (2:04pm August 9, 2009):
My book group mainly does paperbacks. I'm sorry when the authors in the trenches don't have their contract renewed. Like anything in the artistic field, even when you thought you paid your dues, it's what's hot and fresh that the market is after.
Re: Bad Moon Rising (1:29pm August 8, 2009):
I've never been to a book signing where you get a number the night before to save a spot in line. However, I've seen bookstores take reservations for them. I've been to many booksignings and always learn something new and get a bookmark.
Re: Nothing But Scandal (11:25am August 7, 2009):
I always identify with the lady because I know more about women and their way of thinking, rationalizing and explaining.
Re: Bachelor CEO (1:16pm August 3, 2009):
I enjoyed working on The Artist's Way By Julie Cameron years ago for writer's block. Well, I didn't have a block, but the exercises and stories of field trips were fun. I have pen and paper available everywhere, so when the muse strikes, I'm prepared. Learning how others get their stories out helps me choose which process to borrow for my own. The key to writing is to write it down.
Re: It Happened One Night (11:39am July 31, 2009):
My kids used to hate when I got clothes for the family from thrift shops. Now, it's come full circle and they go on their own thrifting and call it vintage. My sister went to Plato's Closet in Florida for the first time on my recommendation and scored some finds including a $300 jeans for $12 for teen in college.
Re: Red, White & Dead (8:11pm July 30, 2009):
I like the head games with what you chose to include about yourself in your trilogy. Wow! A triple threat in a trilogy.
Re: Face Time (1:27pm July 28, 2009):
I borrow from all relationships to make up characters,so everythings an amalgamation. Nothing is off limits. I received Prime Time yesterday and the bold bookmarks are now placed halfway through. Hooked on the first 4 lines sometimes it's like thinking out loud.
Re: Seeing Red (10:56pm July 27, 2009):
I grew up in a small town of 13,000 where everyone knew everybody else's business. News travels fastest in small towns.
Re: The Plight Of The Darcy Brothers (11:35am July 24, 2009):
Your character descriptions paint a good picture of what restrictions and morals Victorians revolved around.
Re: The Diva Takes The Cake (1:18pm July 23, 2009):
Krista, I want to dive right in and start admiring the cake and figuring out the crime. I can't remember exactly what a pergola is.
Re: Earth Guys Are Easy (8:18pm July 15, 2009):
Yesterday by the Fantasticks.
Re: Mr. Perfect (10:58am July 12, 2009):
I flip through a few pages even with hyped books. A romance anthology that lives up to the acclaim is "Once Upon A Pillow" by Christina Dodd and Connie Brockway. It's a fun romp through the centuries with a solid bed in common.
Re: The Beach House (6:02pm July 11, 2009):
Listening to romance authors talk about their books and how they came to be, I got inspired to put pen to paper and create more triangles in relationships.
Re: Art Of Sensuality (11:23am July 10, 2009):
The first time I rubbed shoulders with Romance writers was at an indie bookstore and they thought I was one of them. I did become a writer after picking up more on how to structure daily pages. I learned that research backs up writing and anchors it to keep the pages turning.
Re: Object of Desire (9:14am July 9, 2009):
I like when the tension increases, for the words fly by, the pages flip fast until the reader has a breather and can't hardly wait for the next excitement.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (11:37am July 7, 2009):
Love hearing about your college antics. Reminds me of the guard,Shultz, on TV show Hogan's Heroes when he says, "I see nothing. I see nothing."
Re: Greedy Bones (10:07am July 7, 2009):
Thanks for sharing how your characters tell you the story if you are able to listen. Writing it down, an author feels challenged to get the whole story, while it's being revealed a piece at a time like some super puzzle.
Re: Loving a Lost Lord (12:43pm July 7, 2009):
I love following heroes and heroines through romps in history in settings that anchor time, place and the classes of cultural moral of the period. The past seems richer in detail than the present, because changes can happen only in the future, everything else is wishful thinking.
Re: The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society (11:19pm July 5, 2009):
I don't believe hype, yet read reviews and then read books and decide for myself whether the book had something worthy or not.
Re: Everywhere She Turns (7:51pm July 4, 2009):
It's tough yet a necessity to rein in spending and live more simply if you pursue creative endeavors like art, drama, writing, music and dance. Starving artists are wise to find other secondary jobs while spending time with their passions in off-hours. I call this time-stacking while others call it crosstraining. Even most athletes have more than one way to make a living, because their prime time peaks and switching taps into alternate means for keeping afloat and not sinking too low.
Re: Love At First Flight (11:44pm July 3, 2009):
Meeting on a plane sounds so romantic yet you have a captive audience.
Re: Wild Heart (11:14am June 29, 2009):
What a tender cover! I'm not sure if she's melting into him, he's holding her back or claiming her heart. Thanks for showing the timeline for pub, the waiting that goes on along with the decisions, edits and more. Switching editors must have been quite a nail-biter.
Re: Loving a Lost Lord (7:02pm June 27, 2009):
According to my writers group which has been meeting for 20 years before I came 3 years ago, there are mainly 2 plots. The first plot is going on a journey, the second plot is coming back from a trip. I believe a lot of stories are a good fit with variations of this criteria.
Re: Redemption (12:23pm June 26, 2009):
I know writers who take a thread and keep going with it. Throwing new settings, conflicts between characters and new people in the mix keeps it fresh.
Re: The Scot And I (1:07pm June 25, 2009):
I like the lower the damsel in distress from the ramparts of a castle. I do hope she can cross the moat before the guards are called. Mixing up genres is what keeps authors fresh.
Re: The Best Of Everything (9:01am June 24, 2009):
There's no end to financial advice in these rocky times. Thanks for adding your voice to the mix. Before joining finances together, it's wise to know what you have, what you want besides necessities and where you're going with a budget plan. The care in being honest and preparation and mostly maintenance that saves a lot of heartache.
Re: A Thread Of Truth (1:12pm June 21, 2009):
I find typos amusing. They make me smile broadly. Then I make a correct substitution and keep stepping.
Re: Dial Emmy For Murder (8:54am June 21, 2009):
The writing "process" used to be a mystery to me. Now I know more about the grit and guts involved. The teamwork in writing with more than one person I've heard about for a 3 section romance novel where each took a century and had one static object in common.
Re: Bought (5:54pm June 19, 2009):
I look and see if characters and scenes come from acquaintances or family of the author. Most authors use a compilation of people they know but change a few obvious aspects. Readers like to identify emotionally with relationships on the page. I believe there's a story everywhere if you observe and watch interactions. Interviewing mom was the way I got material for a acrostic poem in a chapbook from a creative writing course.
Re: Jump (12:29pm June 18, 2009):
I like discovering the layers in mysteries and trying to figure out where the distractions are sprinkled in .
Re: Last Resort: Marriage (11:11am June 17, 2009):
My favorite book to recommend is a nonfiction called The Anatomy of an Illness by Dr. Norman Cousins. A taciturn Dr. I worked with was excited about it and laughing your way to health caused the writer to get out of a wheelchair and function again. I can't count how many people I've told about this. Especially visual is watching old Groucho Marks and I Love Lucy movies to make one have belly laughs.
Re: From Friend To Father (12:40pm June 15, 2009):
I got hooked on Romance Novels as a teen. The conflicts in relationships and situations keep me turning the pages.
Re: Final Approach (2:55pm June 8, 2009):
Staying up too late is where I'm most guilty. Unable to stop in the middle of a gripping scene, I keep going and the time just escapes. I can't wait patiently while a good book beakons like the sweet smell emanating from a bread factory. It's basically simply irresistible.
Re: The Red Pony (8:09pm June 7, 2009):
Continued reading the entire young adult section of the liabrary then ventured into the adult. I remember my tastes back then did not include science fiction or horror. Horizons are limitless now and as a voracious reader, sometimes I've gone over the 50 book (or $500) limit at the liabrary. Shakespeare plays, Flowers For Algernon and Lord of the Rings were popular along with the classics.
Re: The Baby Bond (2:23pm June 3, 2009):
Conventions are fun, because there's so much going on and you get to be part of the action. I sympathize with your tootsies and look for something soft to stand on instead of cement. Indie bookstores are the best with personalized service and recommendations. I love when a handwritten review is on the shelf along with a few stars.
Re: A Bride For His Convenience (2:14pm June 3, 2009):
Passing away is never easy. You lose a person by inches and what remains are the miles of attitude and diffences made with giving of their own gifts, talents and skills along the way. You never know how many people are touched and changed with random or deliberate kindness.
Re: Lucky Streak (1:14pm June 2, 2009):
I'd like to think luck or lucky can happen to anybody if you put your mind to it.
Re: Lip Service (11:12pm June 1, 2009):
I want to go on a retreat and see what one of those Indian Sweat Rooms are like. Starting on my list of 20 wishes is like having a bucket list that's always full.
Re: Believe (11:58am May 31, 2009):
I love reading anthologies and seeing what are the threads or themes connecting them together.
Re: A Thread Of Truth (11:49am May 29, 2009):
I want more threads in my life. These books are on the right track. Keep me in stitches and continue spinning the yarns.
Re: Beneath Bone Lake (8:58am May 28, 2009):
Spiders are creepy and I hit them with my shoe. I have a special flyswatter for other insects and it has a dustpan so you don't have to get too close. To have an alligator take care of a body problem means that there's no bones leftover, quite a tidy package deal, right?
Re: Master Of Craving (12:23pm May 27, 2009):
By changing your perception, walking helps get the mind around problems and allows a chance for peace to come through. Go ahead and walk.
Re: A Little Light Magic (9:23pm May 26, 2009):
Hey I'm a middle kid and of course, the peacemaker. I'm always brokering deals to get people talking and agree on something.
Re: The Warrior (11:17am May 24, 2009):
Planning shopping attacks, I usually leave the list at home by mistake, so my shopping is search and hope to find. When back home, I discover the important thing still leftover on the list. However for books, I'm definitely an impulse buyer. For everything else, I shop the clearance areas first.
Re: The Accidental Lawman (5:42pm May 23, 2009):
Your book cover correlates with the insides. A touch of humor, too - I can't wait to find what he'll trip over next.
Re: Storm Glass (5:37pm May 23, 2009):
You must have been thrilled with your first fan mail. I love throwing my opinion into the mix adding to your list of admiring writers and fans.
Re: Saved By The Monarch (5:14pm May 23, 2009):
Meeting a person again after so many years it's amazing how much stays the same and the obvious and subtle differences. It's a lucky day indeed when dreams materialize and come true.
Re: Dragons Prefer Blondes (4:46pm May 23, 2009):
I'm a browser who reads anything especially if the first page is a grabber.
Re: Kissing The Man Next Door (1:37pm May 18, 2009):
It was troublesome enough to date my brother's friend who drove back and forth from St. Louis. When I broke up with him, the treads left from the tire marks announced his displeasure. It was hard to look him in the eye again and he went to my church, too. All in all, a little too close for comfort to date someone so familiar.
Re: Pretty in Plaid (5:22pm May 17, 2009):
I sail in at the last minute for many things, but not for food. I like being early enough for readings/book signings to get an aisle seat.
Re: Mistress (2:04pm May 16, 2009):
Too many characters and names difficult to cipher gives the idea of head-hopping its name.
If there are a lot of characters to keep track of, I love having a character sketch at the beginning of the book to keep them straight.
Re: Taking Flight (2:57pm May 15, 2009):
I agree second best never sits quite right. Reading just about every genre, I especially enjoy stories peopled with characters who have a few flaws and get by with determination and belief in their own capablility.
Re: The Infamous Rogue (12:18pm May 14, 2009):
Reunion romances sound like a good idea. To reacquaint main characters who've been through a lot with and without each other is a nice wish equivalent to a dream state. Sign me up, because wouldn't it be amazing to have a wish come true to life.
Re: A Trace Of Smoke (11:27pm May 13, 2009):
Berlin sounds so mysterious, probably because it's across the water in Europe. I remember listening to a chanteuse singing sultry tunes in a bank converted into a nightclub. Boy, could she hit the notes.
Re: 6 Killer Bodies (6:28pm May 12, 2009):
When I'm under too much pressure for a deadline, I clear the deck and concentrate for hours. Then, for relief, I take a walk. Being out in nature gives me new perspective and a welcome break. It's energizing and calming at the same time. It's easier to go back and do more after being around the sound of water like at a waterfall or mall with fountains.
Re: Let It Ride (4:55pm May 11, 2009):
I plan on finishing projects around the house and catching up on reading piles of books.
Re: With a Twist (3:41pm May 8, 2009):
Patience is a tricky virtue to learn, but having kids teaches both you and them these qualities.
Re: Under Her Skin (10:09am May 4, 2009):
Last month I went to Cottage Rose Tea Room in Chesterland, OH and it was scrumptuous. It was like stepping back where time stands still. Still picturing the server and people surrounding us, I was impressed with exquisite table settings even though each tea cup/saucer was different. I bet you remember the food along with the author.
Re: Comfort Food (3:55pm May 3, 2009):
I usually have more than one book going at a time, but not in the same genre, so there's less chance of confusing. When on the move, I carry light fiction that's easy to pick up and put down as needed for my everyday life and time constraints.
Re: Sunset Bay (12:15pm May 2, 2009):
Meeting authors at a book signing is something I put on my calendar. Having the author come to a book group is even better. You must be glowing.
Re: Fight Fire With Fire (1:31pm May 1, 2009):
Mapping out the outline of a book ahead of time keeps the threads of characters alive. I love how you incorporate flexibility and adapting into your stories. I like having a fallback plan, because I use it a lot.
Re: Wild Heat (11:45am April 30, 2009):
Romances are an after college thing for me. Yet enticing covers of books, would've had me flipping pages checking for juicy tidbits to see what I was missing.
Re: The Madness Of Lord Ian Mackenzie (3:50pm April 29, 2009):
Disarming pirates,Oh My!The vulnerability and strengths you show in your character with high functioning Asperger's strikes a chord and hits readers in the guts. Being different is fine, in fact it sure makes for more interesting reading.
Re: Heartbreak River (3:47pm April 27, 2009):
Music definitely has the power to set moods and enhance surroundings. I've found music I like keeps my energy level and concentration up. I can see how a line or two of music creates immediate bonding with the reader and anchors the time in the past as in retro and might just be a classic which comes around again in popularity.
Re: The Secret Mistress Arrangement (12:18pm April 22, 2009):
I love a hero who's sensitive and kind, but most of all a great listener who doesn't have hissy fits if he can't get his way. A sense of humor softens everything and offers relief from everyday disasters.
Re: Killer Keepsakes (11:12am April 21, 2009):
Oh, the things we solve while in the throes of sleep. If only life worked out as planned, but would that leave enough room or space for the unexpected. As a kid, I remember the cat insisted on attention by dropping bobby pins on the dresser until I got up and hid them again.
Re: Take Me Two Times (10:59am April 20, 2009):
Forgeries in the news fascinate me along with stories of questionable fakery vs reality in the art world. Passion and belief combine to yield heated debates and modern tech ways designed to reveal the truth. Count me as a lover of art and a collector with big eyes.
Re: The Promise (1:58pm April 19, 2009):
Reading is such a sweet escape. I read the entire children's and young adult section at my local liabrary and knew when a new book was on the shelf. With lights out at night, I used to read by flashlight and that makes eerie shadows with scary books.
Re: While My Sister Sleeps (3:01pm April 17, 2009):
I have to unearth the voice-activated tape recorder, because it's safer than writing longhand at traffic lights when driving. Writers are a special breed, twirling many plates to get the word out for their newest books and the ones still in the shadows.
Re: The Heir's Scandalous Affair (1:15pm April 14, 2009):
I like series books, but tend to join at the tail end of the series. I love when characters are described in the beginning of the book, so I can know their place in the family. It gives me a little bit more grasp in what's going on in the story. Otherwise, I feel like I'm behind in the race and can not run fast enough to catch up.
Re: Paradise Valley (6:35pm April 11, 2009):
I'm reading Burnt Toast by Terri Hatcher and it's a hoot and sounds just like her in Desperate Housewives.
Re: Rewriting Monday (12:43pm April 7, 2009):
I don't think I would change anything, because every moment hinges on the moment before. Like in It's a Wonderful Life, if Jimmy Stewart's character hadn't been around, the town would not have had a bank that carried people. In the end, your friends are all who have helped you along the way.
Re: Dragonbound (3:41pm April 6, 2009):
I believe you write because you have to get the stories out that have been sweeping around in your brain. You dust off a corner and find new grit to spiffy up.
Re: Lady Anne And The Howl In The Dark (2:40pm March 30, 2009):
I enjoy reading about how authors write under pseudonyms because in real life, they don't want to be known for that genre. It may be because of embarassment (job, family) or assumptions about gender. Travel out of one's comfort zone is always a risk, but you learn more about human nature and what new levels you can reach, achieve and take steps to strive for.
Re: Whisper of Warning (2:32pm March 30, 2009):
To see the word "page-turner" makes me laugh, since I used to think this was the person sitting on the bench next to the piano player. Flipping through pages of my favorite books, now I enjoy romance, historical or otherwise and am delving more into mysteries.
Re: Kiss Of Darkness (1:48pm March 27, 2009):
Free health screenings at Sno Med Expo helps vampires find all the blood they want. I never thought that maybe vampires were choosy and want the right type of blood like O positive, etc. Do they do it in the field by taste or smell?
Re: Lords Of Corruption (2:56pm March 26, 2009):
I'm never amazed at the brazen tales others tell, just the guts to look you in the eye as they say their piece. Then you may find out later, it was to pump you for information that they can tie into the story to make it more credible. I hate when that happens. You're accurate with the info you've researched, but another expert may be quick to disagree and thoroughly enjoy the prospect of the ensuing lively debate.
Re: Too Rich and Too Dead (2:20am March 25, 2009):
Great idea, travel for research and educational purposes (to be written off as tax expense for business), much to your delight and children's groans at times.
Re: Pursuit (12:48pm March 24, 2009):
Sass, spunk, and spirit, you sure know how to write 'em. I'll have to search for clues and red herrings.
Re: Evil In Carnations (3:18pm March 20, 2009):
I pay attention to those signs that say if you have back trouble, skip this ride. Furthermore, I hate the twirling rides where the G-forces smush you. Kiddie roller coasters are a whole lot tamer and fun with gentle dips and rises. I get a thrill watching the best coasters at Cedar Point and hearing all those screams. Be prepared for the next time you have a strain, sprain or backache with Arnica Gel a homeopathic med from Whole Foods. I keep it in my car for sprains and back strains for family and friends on sports teams.
Re: Sophie's Secret (6:06pm March 19, 2009):
I like books based on interviews and lifestyles. The founders of charities getting their stories told is great. I guess this is the way to "walk the talk."
Re: Would-Be Witch (4:37pm March 16, 2009):
I would go to France and see the street people and the high-faluting opera people putting on airs while mingling wearing gorgeous clothes in the 1920's.
Re: Intimate Beings (12:13pm March 13, 2009):
As a young adult, death was not in any picture I knew. I felt quite invincible, so a finality was out of the picture. In middle age, I was touched more by the subject with relatives and friends that I knew passing on to the other side. What really got me to thinking was the fact everyone has secrets they never reveal, sometimes even to themselves. The deep secrets go with them to their grave.
Re: Simple Wishes (1:50pm March 11, 2009):
Girl, you've got a lot going on in your story and somehow wrap it all up together. I love how you throw a wild thing in just to research and learn more about it. I find that my own writing takes me to spots different from the way I live, like moving through an adventure. I don't know what my pen will scribe next, but I'm willing to bet it will stretch the facts a whole lot to fill in for the parts that are fuzzy.
Re: Book of Sudoku (9:41am March 7, 2009):
I hate when that happens. The spine is a finicky thing when overbent upside down instead of using a bookmark and remembers the strain by giving up pages without your consent. Books fall open in puddles, when my arms are full and then get all crinkled drying and never look pristine again.
Re: Scandal (9:25am March 7, 2009):
Historicals give a sense of being back in a different time surrounded by a setting rather foreign to present day living. I like them, because of the traditions carried on in the culture that I contrast to nowadays. Learning about morals and values held dear at that time make me feel like I have seen a slice of history revolving around real people. It brings the past to life immersed in a timeline of expectation and anticipation.
Re: Safe By His Side (1:28pm March 5, 2009):
I always plan on doing exercise being gung-ho for a week, then it sinks in: this is a lifestyle change for the long haul. So, I try to carry on, but throw the towel in and gradually quit what plan I've mapped out and put other things "more important" in place. I can't find a bandaid big enough to cover my mistake in trying to change too many things at once. One step at a time, one week and then three is a more sensible speed. It takes at least 3 weeks to change a habit, good or bad. Having a buddy to walk with as you step off on a plan keeps you on track. The conversations of love/hate are the ways to weigh down with baggage in the consequences of action vs inaction. Build toward and on the positives and like magic, things become clearer. A whole lot of distractions move away while finding yourself back in the middle of a passionate path.
Re: Vexing The Viscount (11:55am February 13, 2009):
Whenever I see courtesan, I think of fans of devotion to being irresistable to the opposite sex. Attention in the way of gifts and elevation up the ladder of class is the aim. A courtesan is always looking to be the first chair like in band and orchestrates a whole lot of action behind the scenes to position self in the right location with the right jewel in place.
Re: Evil Without A Face (6:28pm January 29, 2009):
My kids are older now, but one chose to interact via email as a teen with someone who quit smoking and was in their 20's. Nothing happened but I sure cautioned against sharing info.
Re: Wicked Burn (4:52pm January 26, 2009):
Becoming a writer doesn't end with the final edit. Promotion lets people know you are producing a book specific to a niche or genre. Kindof like an expectation or launch due date. If you wait until the book's done, then your market takes longer to become warm.
Re: Whisper of Warning (5:57pm January 24, 2009):
Shock away. I like book surprises. More fuel for my voracious reading appetite that doesn't involve counting calories.
Re: Kissing Games Of The World (1:25pm December 30, 2008):
I love your characters showing up anytime. Mine usually come while driving and I need to hold that thought until a red light and fumble around for pen and paper. Talking on the cell phone on freeway ramps and characters dropping in make me nervous.
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