Patricia Barraclough
Features & Posts
609 comments posted.
Re: Love Under Protection (12:25pm March 26, 2020):
I would hit the museums - American Museum of Natural History, National September 11 Memorial & Museum, Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, The Cloisters, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I would like to visit Central Park and the Bronx Zoo. If possible, it would be nice to see a good Broadway show.
Re: Tempest (1:16am March 25, 2020):
You have listed many books I had not heard of as well as several I have been interested in. I came to the romance genre late, in my 50's. My introduction was Julie Garwood's historical books. They tend to be my comfort reads. RANSOM is my favorite. THE WEDDING, THE BRIDE, THE SECRET, SAVING GRACE, and THE PRIZE have all been repeat reads over the years. Two of Kat Martin's historicals are also repeat reads. I have many books on my keeper shelf (more like a room) is full of books I loved and really would love to read again. Time is just not my friend. There are so many new books out there to explore. Even self- isolating isn't helping me get more read.
Re: The Operator (1:04am March 14, 2020):
We had a party line for several years when I was a child. I will plead guilty to listening in a bit a few times when I picked up the phone to make a call and someone was already on the line.
Re: You Had Me at Wolf (1:36am February 28, 2020):
Part of what I like is the ability to become something entirely different from their human selves. I like their certainty when they meet their fated mate. Wouldn't it be nice as a human to be so certain about a relationship when you meet someone?
Re: An Inconvenient Duke (11:52pm February 26, 2020):
In historical romance I want a window into the time period with details as accurate as possible without it turning into a history lecture. I want strong heroes who are honorable and susceptible to a woman who knows her own mind and is willing to take risks for those she cares about.
Re: Calling on Quinn (10:20pm February 25, 2020):
I like salty and sweet. Your box of salted caramels would not be safe here. I have not replaced mine because I just can't resist them. I will mx salty pretzels and something sweet - caramels maybe. Quinn and the Blackhart series to come sound like good reads.
Re: A SEAL Always Wins (4:17pm February 24, 2020):
Holly, you have the perfect background for doing both historical and contemporary stories about Texas. With a hero or heroine in uniform exhibits a sense of duty and heroism not usually found in civilian life. They have pledged themselves to protect and defend, following a code that has them doing just that. Some tend to live hard not figuring they have a future, but when they find the right person to share their life with, they make devoted, supportive spouses. I have my military hero and wouldn't trade him for anyone.
Re: In Search of Truth (1:59pm February 24, 2020):
I forgot to ask, is this the end of the series, or will there be more books.
Re: In Search of Truth (1:58pm February 24, 2020):
P - Persistent - If there is something I really want, I will plan and work for it, pretty much as long as it takes to get there. In high school, I heard President Kennedy talk about and establish the Peace Corps. I decided right then it was something I was going to do. It took years - finishing high school and then getting my degree in college, but 3 weeks after graduation from college I left for Peace Corps training. Those 3 years were a wonderful experience. More recently, we had been planning to travel to Alaska, a bucket list trip. # years ago I had started planning the trip when I developed a detached retina. That wiped out the summer with surgeries, etc. The following Spring I resumed planning and was diagnosed with an autoimmune-neurological disease. That took much to adjust to and figure out where I went from there. This past Spring, I resumed planning our trip. My treatments had stabilized my symptoms and before things got worse, I decided we were going. We spent 2 1/2 months on the road and had a fantastic trip. I am now looking at another bucket list trip next year to Ireland, Scotland, and England if I can figure out how to get my weekly treatments while overseas. It takes a suitcase to carry everything for the treatments, but if I can get enough week's worth, I can make it work. Even when I end up with a walker or wheelchair, I will still keep going.
Re: Veiled in Smoke (3:45am February 20, 2020):
Chicago is in the top 3 cities I want to visit in the US. My niece is moving there next month, so hopefully we will be able to finally get there. Thank you so much for giving these sites to visit to discover the history of the fire. They are the types of things we look for when we travel. Veiled In Smoke sounds like a good book.
Re: The Solid Grounds Coffee Company (2:09am February 14, 2020):
I would love to share a cup with my mother. I was overseas in the Peace Corps for 3 years, and made it home only 3 weeks before she died unexpectedly of cancer that had just been diagnosed. She was only 47. We had become best friends before I left and I still miss her dearly even though it has been decades since she passed. I would like to share with her her children's and grandchildren's weddings, none of which she was able to attend. She never got to meet her grandchildren or great grandchildren. Coffee wouldn't be long enough but I would give anything to be able to do it and let her know how much we love and miss her.
Re: Beach Haven (2:00am February 14, 2020):
This sounds like such a delightful read. I love the ditzy fairy reference. I can relate. For a romantic vacation, I would like to spend a couple months traveling around Ireland, Scotland, and England. We can work on tracing our ancestors, explore the history and beautiful countryside. We could relax and take out time to just be and enjoy. I am trying to figure out how to do that next year. We too a 2 1/2 month trip in our RV from TN to Alaska and back. It was wonderful and we actually relaxed and had a great time. I just might try these biscuits. We love crab and cheese, so these should be good.
Re: The Winter Companion (1:11am February 13, 2020):
I love cookies. Molasses/ginger snaps cookies are favorites. An all time favorite I haven't made in a long time are "The Worlds Best Cookie." They were called such by a friend's mom who made them for us when I was visiting during college (over 5 decades ago) and they are quite good. They are large cookies that are a combination of chocolate chip and oatmeal cookies. With raisins, walnuts, chocolate chips, and oatmeal addd to the dough, they are a filling and delicious snack. I usually don't worry about how long cookies will keep, because they are gone within a few days. I do keep them in an airtight container and I would think they would freeze pretty well.
Re: Highland Sword (12:57pm February 13, 2020):
I used to bee pretty good at both. The past few years, we have been so busy we seem to be eating on the run, with no schedule, or time to cook. Too many nights we just give up and grab a bowl of cereal. We relish the times we can fix a nice meal. I love scones, but have not had any with molasses, which I love. I am hoping I get a chance to make these tomorrow so we can have them Valentine Day morning.
Re: Storm from the East (12:28pm February 13, 2020):
I think some cooked down apples , like a chunky applesauce, with a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar would be a good topping. Over it all, a large dollop of whipped cream would finish it nicely.
Re: Fair Weather Enemies (1:46am February 12, 2020):
I like having a window into a different time and place. I prefer books that are factually accurate not just stories that could be set just about anywhere or anytime. It is interesting to see how society functioned differently and how the rules of society differed in different time periods.
Re: Forbidden Promises (1:02am February 11, 2020):
Thank you for the recipe. I enjoy a Beauty and the Beast, wounded hero (or heroine) type of story.
Re: Once Upon a Sunset (12:57pm February 11, 2020):
When we want a special, romantic dinner, we usually go for surf and turf. A nice steak and a lobster tail, baked potato, nice salad, and cheesecake for dessert. Add a nice wine and coffee and I am happy.
Re: Forever Strong (1:49am February 10, 2020):
We never enjoy fighting the crowds at restaurants on Valentine's Day. We prefer to stay home and prepare a special dinner, usually surf and turf, with nice wine and whatever special dessert we decide to make.
Re: Defending Zara (1:39am February 10, 2020):
That is a very hard question. It is a toss up between Heath Bars and Rolos with HeatheBars having the lead.
Re: Wicked Cowboy Wolf (5:46am February 2, 2020):
Shifters are my favorites in the paranormal world. I am not really sure why. Having the ability to call on a hidden part of yourself to help in a situation may be a part of it. A hidden strength and alter ego to deal with difficult situations is something we could all use.
Re: Lucky Chance Cowboy (5:17am January 31, 2020):
I guess my favorite pop culture dog would be the first one I remember, Rin Tin Tin. That was the first dog I remember. We never really had a dog for a pet when I was a child. Since I married, we have had 10 dogs and fostered many litters for the local animal shelter.
Re: Cold Nose, Warm Heart (4:41am January 31, 2020):
We have had LOTS of pets of all sorts: dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, snakes, rodents of various types, chickens, etc. By far, dogs are our favorites. We have had about a dozen and fostered many litters for the local animal shelter. Of all the dogs we have had, our favorite was our black lab mix and next would be our beagle mix. If we were to get another, it would be a lab, likely with a beagle playmate. But that will be after our current dog is no longer with us.
Re: Whiteout (3:06am January 31, 2020):
I grew up on the Canadian border, so am used to snow and cold. I have been stranded in blizzards several times and have no desire to repeat the experience any time soon. If by being stranded, you mean inside, I would make sure there was a sufficient fuel supply for heat, food, and a well stocked library. If outside, I would be desperately be trying to make a snow shelter and would hopefully have some means to keep warm - sleeping bag, warm clothing, a heat source of some type (even a candle). A supply of food and some hope of being rescued would certainly be desirable. If none of the above were possible, I would expect to be found as a popsicle some time in the future.
Re: Inherent Truth (12:38pm January 27, 2020):
I love series and it is so hard to pick a favorite. In historical romance, Elizabeth Hoyt's Maiden Lane series and Jennifer Blake's Masters at Arms series are favorites. In romantic suspense, Katie Ruggle's series set in the Rockies and auto buys.
Re: Secret Mountain Hideout (1:26am January 25, 2020):
Characters, plot, and setting are all important. They have to work well together for there to be a good story. You can have good characters, but if they don't fit in the setting or the plot does not suit them, the story won't work. The same is true for plot and setting. The characters need to fit them or the story will be lacking.
Re: Malfunction (12:26pm January 23, 2020):
The original 3 Star Wars movies are favorites. The Lord of The Rings trilogy was fascinating and incredible to watch. I enjoyed Asimov's I, ROBOT and FOUNDATION series.
Re: A Cowboy Never Quits (2:42am January 3, 2020):
We lived in Colorado Springs for 3 years and it was the best assignment my husband had in his Air Force career. I actually love the weather. I grew up in northern New York on the Canadian border. The cold, snow, ice, dirty slushy mess on the warmish days and in Spring were what I disliked the most. In Colorado, we would get a couple feet of snow and a week later it had evaporated and was 70 degrees. You can also hit a blizzard in the mountains in July and drive out of it as you go lower in altitude. Anyway, it was our first exposure to the real West and we explored as much of the area as we could. There is a different attitude - a bit more respect and courtesy, care for the land and their animals, they work hard and rodeos prove they play hard. People are more open. They tend to be what they are and you can take it or leave it. A bit of honesty few aren't used to much any more. We travel out West whenever we can. We miss it.
Re: Pathfinder (12:30pm January 2, 2020):
There is something special about the West. Back then it was a chance for a fresh start. Where you could prove the type of person you were, or wanted to be, without the preconceived view of you from your past. Hard work counted for something. The opportunity to build something for yourself and your family was there. Even women could build a life that often was not available to them in the Eastern part if the nation. There were many dangers from the land, the weather, and the evil people wanting to take whatever they could get. We lived in Colorado for several years and there is still the feel of independence, working hard, and a certain respect for others and the land. The western romances give us an opportunity to step back and get the feel of being there during that time period.
Re: The One for You (12:24pm January 1, 2020):
My resolutions for this year are the same as always. To try and get my house in order and start to down size. (Hopeless) Get more exercise and start doing yoga again. (Possible) Travel more - maybe we will get to Ireland and Scotland this year. (Very likely) Read more (Definitely) Try not to stay up so late on the computer (Maybe)
Re: Risk It All (12:11pm December 31, 2019):
Mountains, most definitely. I grew up in the Adirondack Mountains of NY, lived in Northern Maine in those mountains, then the Rockies in Colorado, and now live in the foot hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We lived in Colorado Springs, CO for 3 years and loved every minute. Best assignment my husband had during his AF career. We would have loved to stay longer or retire there, but it didn't work out. We go back out West to the Rockies whenever we can. I love that you have set your series in that area. It makes them more enjoyable for me.
Re: A Wedding in December (12:13pm December 7, 2019):
Mountain lodges in winter are wonderful. We have been snowed in to our own houses multiple times. When we lived in Colorado, we made sure we had a wood stove so we could keep the house heated. We are in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in TN now, but again we made certain to have a wood stove. Our power went out frequently when we first moved here so the stove came in handy for heating and cooking. We had oil lamps which work well for reading and normal daily things. There is something comforting about deep snow and the silence it brings. It brings out the child in us all. We just can't resist going out to play in it. I miss the snowy winters of the Northern New York Adirondack Mountains where I grew up.
Re: Wish Upon a Cowboy (2:46am November 29, 2019):
Ranching is hard work and has to be something you love. It requires lots of dedication and a willingness to take a few chances. It is hard to imagine how devastating it would be to have an honest mistake put something you love in jeopardy. Dyslexia is insidious. It is getting easier to be diagnosed and try to make accommodations for it, but it isn't something that can be cured. Our daughter wasn't diagnosed until she was in 6th grade and back then there was little that could be done. She still has issues. Harper has to be a strong woman to have survived prison and still be willing and able to fight for the life she wants. WISH UPON A COWBOY sounds like a story that has just what I like: strong characters and a well developed story.
Re: The Goddess Gets Her Guy (12:59pm November 23, 2019):
I love the sound of this book. Thank you for the excerpt. Also, thank you so much for presenting us with a couple that have a few years on them. Being over 50 doesn't mean that your life stops and companionship and love are no longer a factor in your life. There is a market of us women of a certain age who appreciate stories we can more realistically relate to. Thank you for the giveaway. Also thank you for your time in the Red Cross. We volunteer with the RC and have for years. We do Disaster and Service To The Armed Forces, including No Vet Dies Alone. Your line of work was so necessary, especially in big disasters.
Re: Virgin River (12:38pm November 23, 2019):
First, I am disappointed the series is on Netflix which we do not get. There are many good contemporary book series that would make good movie series/TV series. I would like to go back a bit and have them do The Maiden Lane series by Elizabeth Hoyt set in 1700 England.
Re: Wolf Rebel (9:08pm November 21, 2019):
Fellow Disney lover here. I go back much further than you do, but so does the program. Initially Peter Pan was my favorite. I used to make up stories of our nightly adventures to tell my younger siblings. Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite. I am sure the library may have something to do with it, but it is also my favorite story trope. Little Mermaid and Tarzan are favorites, especially for the music. We have been lucky enough to have taken our family to Disney many times over the years, but only because we never had to pay for it. The first time we went was 3 weeks after they opened right after we got engaged. We had friends who worked or were retired from Disney World. They used to b able to bring in 3 people a day with park hopper passes. Their rules have since changed and our friends have passed away. Our daughter does have a couple of friends who work there so she and her family are covered. There are several new areas opened up - Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Pandora – The World of Avatar. It has been several years since we have been, so hopefully we can make it soon. We will also have to be defectors and hit the Harry Potter worlds at that other place.
Re: Puppy Christmas (1:44am November 17, 2019):
I just finished LONGING FOR A COWBOY CHRISTMAS and loved it. This selection of Christmas books you are giving away sound enjoyable and would likely land in my Christmas bookcase to reread every year. For Christmas, Santa should bring me safe travels for our children and their families who will be traveling here for the holidays and enjoyable times together.
Re: The Reluctant Rake (1:24am October 31, 2019):
I enjoy historical fiction and the many time periods it covers. It is difficult to pick just one to stay in. I would like to be able to visit them all and stay for a short time to experience them. The one I wouldn't mind remaining in would be the late 1800's. Society was changing, inventions were making life a bit easier and interesting for many, women were beginning to gain a bit more independence and control over their lives. I would like to spend my time in the American West. It was still a bit untamed with possibilities for adventure were everywhere while a more settled life was possible in the cities and towns. Thank you for sharing excerpts from these two stories. They both sound enjoyable.
Re: Always Look Twice (1:43am October 11, 2019):
Microwave nachos are definitely a thing. I started making them over 35 years ago for a quick lunch - just chips and cheese with a sliced apple on the side. Now we throw olives, peppers, meat, etc. on the chips, cover with cheese and zap.
Re: A Christmas Home (1:12am October 11, 2019):
I will definitely be trying Aromatic Beef Stew. Beef stew is a favorite and adding a variation to the usual stew. They are all interesting and sound good. I will likely try all of them at some time.
Re: Always Look Twice (1:02am October 11, 2019):
Fall is my favorite season. I love the change to cool crisp days and all the fresh produce that ripens in the Fall.
Re: Always Look Twice (1:00am October 11, 2019):
Our family loves mac and cheese. This is an interesting variation. I like recipes I can play with and this one is open to all sorts of add ins if I feel like it.
Re: Once Upon a Cowboy Christmas (1:19am October 10, 2019):
Thank so much for sharing . I love stews and often make them during winter, I will be giving this recipe a try come winter. There is something special about those who grow up in the open country. They learn a sense of honor, to love the land, hard work and responsibility at an early age. If you want someone capable and caring, go find yourself a cowboy.
Re: Heiress Gone Wild (2:40am October 3, 2019):
I do beef stew, a chicken in cream sauce recipe, and a beef Bar-B-Q in my crockpot. Heiress Gone Wild sounds like it will be another one of your enjoyable books.
Re: Capturing the Heart of a Rock Star (12:44pm September 11, 2019):
I have lived around the country and small town America is where I belong. I enjoy large metropolitan areas for what they have to offer, but the pace of life in small towns is much more compatible to my style. I can always visit the city for what it offers. I believe most people deserve a second chance. It may not work out, but it is worth trying. As for the bad boy image, many aren't really that bad if you look deeply enough. Makes them all the more worth the second look.
Re: How to Cross a Marquess (12:14pm August 29, 2019):
I like enemy to lovers story lines. The realization that they have both changed and can actually be friends is always enjoyable.
Re: Moon Water (11:04pm August 23, 2019):
I grew up in the Adirondack Mountains of northern New York and share your love of the mountains and what they have to offer the soul. We have lived in the Rocky Mountains and now live along the Blue Ridge Mountains in NE TN. Nature and our elders have much to offer and teach each of us. We need to be more open and listen to them.
Re: Unbreak Me (10:47pm August 20, 2019):
LJ is a special man indeed. He knows the way to show the woman he is interested in just what kind of a man he is. So often romance is considered in terms of the physical. That does not show you what type of person he is and what is n his heart.
Re: The Time for Murder is Meow (12:46pm August 12, 2019):
I think we would be a good match. My life is chaotic and I often need a good read to help me chill. A good mystery which is a bit on the light side - in gory intensity, not suspense - with a touch of romance is often just what I need. We have had several cats over the years. Our daughters each had their cat growing up. One is in between cats at the moment. The other has 4 inside cats and about 6 outside cats.
Re: The Book Charmer (1:43am August 9, 2019):
The Book Charmer sounds like a delightful read. I was the children's librarian in a small county library. One of the things I enjoyed most was finding the right book for a person. I worked the desk, ordered the romance books in addition to the children's selections, and for a while delivered books to shut-ins. I have always been pretty good at figuring out what book someone would enjoy and it is rewarding when they tell me how much they enjoyed a book. A few don't initially trust the recommendation, but why would you suggest a book if you didn't thin they would enjoy it.
Re: On the Market (2:32am August 7, 2019):
Books are a favorite gift for me to give. I have 4 on the table right now that will be gifts. I have put gift baskets together for silent auctions for several groups. I usually start with a book or several and build the items in the basket around the book's theme. It is great fun to do.
Re: Love at First Bark (8:50pm July 30, 2019):
Dogs can be such an important part of our lives. We have had about 10 dogs over the last 40 years not counting the litters we fostered for the animal shelter. (I will never take a liter of 9 terriers and their mom again. Longest 6 weeks we ever had. They are the yappiest little things. They did all get adopted out.) We are currently down to just two, both our son's, but they have been with us their entire 10 and 7 years. Both are pit bulls and like all our other dogs, rescues. When we are ready to get our own dog again, it will likely be a lab and or a beagle. They were our favorite dogs and both plus one other made it to 17 years old. In the meantime, we will keep our son's dogs until he is ready to move them to his new house and hope they get along with his new wife's 2 dogs. If not, they are ours a bit longer. I will have to be happy with visiting and volunteering at the animal shelter. "Disabled" dogs present their own special challenges (one of our son's has a broken back) but they can make the extra care so worth it. They just need to find that special person who is waiting out there for them.
Re: A SEAL Never Quits (8:31pm July 30, 2019):
There is definitely a special bond within military units. My husband was in the Air Force and "we" reluctantly retired after 24 years. It is a special way of life and not everyone is suited for it. The FB111 was a special airplane and the people that flew it special crews. There were only two bases where they were stationed and a small group of people on the 2 man crews. It has been over 30 years since we left the active 111 family and the planes are no longer in the inventory. The crews still get together every 2 years and it is like it has only been a short time since seeing each other. The reunion is in 2 weeks and we are looking forward to it. Small specialized units build an especially close relationship among the members. It sounds like you have done a good job of depicting that. I look forward to reading this series.
Re: Last Chance Rodeo (6:35pm July 30, 2019):
What a wonderful post. We came through your territory just a few weeks ago. We were on the homeward swing of a 2 1/2 month trip to Alaska. We came through Browning the Friday the Rodeo started. I wanted to stop, but was outvoted. We haven't been to a rodeo in years. I looked up pow wows later and discovered there was one in conjunction with the rodeo. I am so disappointed we missed both and the town's museum. I am not sure when I will be able to travel that way again, but that would be the perfect weekend. We were introduced to rodeos and western life when we lived in Colorado Springs over 30 years ago. For this Yankee it was a wonderful new world to explore. Last Chance Rodeo sounds like an excellent read. I always look forward to traveling back out West, even if it is in the pages of a book. I hope the release is a big success.
Re: Fast Lane (9:41pm July 26, 2019):
What diverse sub-genres you write. People involved in the racing and custom car business are a breed apart. Marty Calhoun and his children sound like special people. I hope you are able to give them all their own stories soon.
Re: The Sweetest Things (8:54pm July 26, 2019):
My mother's family would attend midnight mass together every Christmas. Not a big deal, except she is one of 9 children and my aunts and uncles all had large families. We are talking 50+ people attending together. Afterwards we went to my grandparents house for brunch. I have no idea how we all managed to fit into the house, but we managed and had a great time. 20 adults and 40 to 50 children can certainly make for a festive time.
Re: American Duchess (12:38pm April 18, 2019):
We live about an hour from the Biltmore, the Vanderbilt home, in Asheville, NC and have visited it several times. We visited the mansions in Newport, RI. It is very obvious that their life styles and priorities were very different from the rest of us. Their wealth allowed them to be patrons of the arts, even if was to enhance their mansions in competition with one another. It is sad the number of mansions that were razed during and after the depression. So much art was lost. Marrying off daughters to gain a noble title in the family was just another form of competition among them. It is really sad that their children, mostly daughters, were considered commodities to be used to advance the family's position and influence. Even more sad is the predatory actions of British royalty on the hunt for a rich American girl to solve their financial problems. To be married for just your family's money and not for yourself must have been crushing for most of them. How very sad for Consuelo to have such a mercenary mother.
Re: Foul Play on Words (6:58pm April 9, 2019):
Humor is a necessary element in any book I read. Maybe not in non- fiction, but it can help, too. Everyday people can have rather chaotic lives (our family can attest to that) and there are times it is hard to believe what is happening. At times, a suspension of disbelief has helped many of us get through the day. Keep writing books that are fun and quirky.
Re: A Shot of Murder (6:44pm April 9, 2019):
Very interesting post. I hope your books contain the same sense of humor and snarky attitude this post did. We live in Tennessee. The home of Mountain Dew and Jack Daniels.I was a librarian for years at a small county library. The books most stolen here have to do with witch craft (for private collections) and books like Harry Potter and those on evolution ( censorship by theft). We replaced Harry Potter Book One 10 times and had many complaints about indoctrinating the children in Satan's ways. They also complained about graphic novels. How dare we put graphic things on the shelves for young people. Of course they had no idea what graphic novels were. Anyway, my favorite whiskey is Bushmill's Irish Whiskey. I love to fix Irish coffee. A SHOT OF MURDER sounds good, but I do prefer my whiskey without the added ingredient found in theirs.
Re: Death Blow (6:13pm April 9, 2019):
I do believe we would be a good match. I grew up reading mysteries and suspense. I still enjoy a good, tense suspense to keep me up at night and keep me wondering how it will turn out. Good character development is important to me for both major and minor characters. It makes the story a richer experience.
Re: A Phoenix Is Forever (12:28pm March 29, 2019):
I did not discover romance until my 50's. I would sneak a look at the blurbs and the stories sounded interesting, but the bodice ripper covers put me off. I finally found a printing of Julie Garwood's historical romances with covers featuring lovely fabrics and jeweled broaches. I loved them and never looked back. I still don't like the bodice ripper type covers, only now half naked men seem to be the vogue. There are many well written romances out there, but the stigma of the genre remains. When I was the children's librarian at the county library, everyone else who worked there definitely DID NOT read romance, so I got the job of ordering. They all read J. D. Robb, Iris Johansen, Lisa Gardner, and several other authors who write romantic suspense. The misconception of what are really romance books and their quality is wide spread. People don't realize how much research good authors put in to suspense and historical romance among others. Off book topic, thank you for serving as a Red Cross nurse. I am a R.C. disaster volunteer and a R. C. Service to the Armed Forces volunteer. I have called on our nurses many times to help clients with ordering replacement medications and devices. I actually had to call one tonight for a family of 6 who had a house fire. It is so helpful to have them to take care of that part of a call. Thank you for the giveaway. Have a great Spring. It will eventually get to New Hampshire.
Re: A Lord Apart (2:10am March 27, 2019):
Family histories can be fascinating. I am so lucky it became a passion of one of my brothers. He has done extensive research and is even teaching classes. Too bad I don't live closely enough to attend them. He has discovered our roots go back to the original french settlers in Canada. There were women dowered by the king sent over to marry and help establish permanent settlements to counter English encroachment. These women were called the King's Daughters (filles du roi). There were about 800 of them sent over from 1663 and 1673. There are 20 of these women in the different branches of our family tree on both sides of the family. On my father's side, There is an Irish family which came to Canada during the Potato Famine. Parts of both sides of the family eventually settled in Northern New York. My brother keeps unearthing interesting details and stories of our ancestors.
Re: The Summer Cottage (1:42am March 27, 2019):
What a nice excerpt. My family had an old camp on a small lake in the N. Y. Adirondack Mountains. It wasn't much, but we couldn't wait until we got up there. There is just something magical about a place like it and Creaky Cottage. We didn't have the "rules" but the effect and idea was the same. I went there year round, having fought the snow storms which were not as bad as lake effect snow, but still not not fun. There was ice skating and ice fishing on the lake, and hikes in the snow through the woods. This is a book I will enjoy and am looking forward to reading.
Re: In Her Sights (7:19pm March 25, 2019):
I live Kathy Ruggle's books. I am currently working on the K-9 Unit series and look forward to this new series. We lived in Colorado for 3 years and she definitely has the feel of the area in her books. It is a wonderful place and we miss it. She was definitely My best "new author" find a year or so ago.
Re: Taming Her Mate (1:13am March 24, 2019):
Shifter stories give an author the opportunity to add extra elements to the story they would not be ablate if the characters were just ordinary people. Being able to blend characteristics of the shifter animal with those of a strong hero or heroine as well as evil villains makes for exciting stories.
Re: It's Getting Scot in Here (1:25am February 28, 2019):
Highland romances are what attracted me to the genre and I do love them. This sounds like it will be an good series. Amelia-Rose and Nial are two strong characters. Their contest of wills on their way to their HEA should be most enjoyable. Thank you for the giveaway.
Re: Let Me Love You (12:53pm February 28, 2019):
I enjoy series that revolve around the same place, events, or agency. Having a variety of authors doing the series adds a nice variety of voices and styles. I hope your part of Tennessee didn't get flooded. We still have one Red Cross shelter open here for those who can't get back into their homes.
Re: Just Once (11:57pm January 19, 2019):
I think we would be a nice match. This story, JUST ONCE, intrigues me. It sounds like a heart breaking situation. Knowing families dealing with brain injuries and forms of dementia, things can and do change so unexpectedly. My free time is spent with family or on the phone with them. In addition, I volunteer and spend time with other volunteers discussing programs, problems, and helping new volunteers to the different programs. I always keep a box of tissues handy when I read or watch movies. I cry easily, even at happy parts. I was lucky to find my true and forever love. We will celebrate our 47th anniversary this year. I have heard of the books you listed as recent reads but have not yet read them. After checking them out, BEFORE WE WERE YOURS will be one of the next books I read. I have not seen or read THE NOTEBOOK. Actually I don't think I have seen any of the movies based on his books. After reading more about the movie and the book, I think I will have to read/see it.
Re: A Bound Heart (10:34pm January 19, 2019):
How wonderful that you have family history to draw upon for inspiration for your books. Situations changed so rapidly for people in the past. Much faster than they tend to do today, and there was so little recourse to rectify the situations. We are planning a trip cross country to Alaska and back. It will be the third summer we have planned the trip. Medical issues bumped us out the past two years. We have our fingers crossed it won't happen again. We have a few short trips planned for March to Williamsburg, VA, and to Charleston, SC in April. We are going to conferences in both places. Both are only 5 to 7 hours from home. Next year we hope to go to Scotland, Ireland, and England.
Re: Texas Legacy (2:26am January 17, 2019):
I am getting the stories I have wanted for side characters. Linda Broday had women hiding in a canyon in her Men Of Legend series. She has now started a new series that will give some of these women their HEA. Their situations are so dire because their families have committed them to an asylum even though there is nothing really wrong with them. They have escaped and must hide like outlaws to keep from being sent back. I look forward to new Lorraine Heath western set books. I have enjoyed her books for many years.
Re: The Conspiracy (2:13am January 17, 2019):
I have enjoyed Kat Martin books since discovering the historical many years ago. I have really enjoyed the suspense books since that sub-genre was my first love. I have a shelf of keepers from all the types of books she writes. This one sounds like another good addition to her body of work.
Re: Night Of The Flood (12:28pm January 3, 2019):
Some of my favorite traditions we don’t do anymore. It is a matter of time and place. I mentioned one on an earlier post this week about Santa and Christmas Eve visit to Read ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. The on I really miss is one we had when I was a child. My mother’s family went to midnight mass together, then went to my grandparents’ for brunch afterwards. I still can’t figure out how we all fit into their house. She was one of 9 children and I had over 60 cousins. It was total chaos with that many children, but in a good way. We would get home after 2 am and somehow Santa had come. We would open our presents and then go to bed. I realize now how smart that was. We could all sleep in after such a late night. If one of us woke up early, the gifts were open and we could play with them without waiting for anyone else. Christmas day we would go to my Dad’s parents and have Christmas dinner. He was one of 7 siblings, but there were only 10 grandchildren on that side of the family, 6 from my family. Much time has gone by. The grandparents are gone, my dad and all his siblings are gone, my mother, many of her siblings are gone, and even some of the cousins are gone. We have moved all over the country and have children and grandchildren of our own. I would have liked to do it with our family, but all the children usually do not get to our house until after Christmas. We do have our Christmas dinner together , just not on Christmas day. I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas.
Re: Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish (12:53pm December 12, 2018):
I love Christmas stories and have a bookcase of keepers. I try to reread many each year, but find so many good new ones every year, it is hard to keep up. Christmas Moon by Elizabeth Lane is a favorite. I also have many anthologies which are big favorites. I do believe that 'TIS THE SEASON will be joining them. I love the general feeling of happiness, camaraderie, and helpfulness. The outpouring of generosity and helpfulness is reassuring. It gives me hope that the feelings will extend past the holidays and make a better future for us all.
Re: Decoy Date (12:15pm December 12, 2018):
I totally understand the "disaster area" type of working. I don't write, but when I am working on projects or organizing things, it usually looks like a tornado hit. You can't sort things and organize them without spreading them out all over. I always end up making a much bigger mess before things are the way they should be. I firmly believe the end result is worth the mess.
Re: You Had Me at Cowboy (12:33pm December 4, 2018):
Being the responsible one has many drawbacks and sometimes few of the perks. I can understand Mason's reluctance to open himself to being hurt. Tessa is just "doing her job," but is opening herself and Mason to heartbreak. How is she going to handle the backlash when he finds out the truth? Can she convince him that her feelings aren't the same as they were when she decided on her plan? YOU HAD ME AT COWBOY sounds like an enjoyable read.
Re: Earl to the Rescue (1:03am November 28, 2018):
Gwendeline sounds like a sweet young woman, one who definitely feels like she is being thrown in amongst the wolves. The excerpt gives enough information to make me wonder just what has been said about her and what her situations is. Also, how are the Earl and his mother involved. Excellent hook.
Re: My Forever Home (12:50pm November 27, 2018):
Love your sunroom. Sadly (from) the first thing that struck me was the lack of clutter. Sadly it is something I am struggling with. My daughter had a Maine Coon cat and he was gorgeous. They are wonderful cats. We have had rescue pets for over 40 years. We have fostered litters for our local animal shelter and kept a puppy from both the first and the last litter.Not counting the many puppies in litters, we have had about a dozen dogs over the years. We are down to 2 rescues now. We have had cats, rabbits, and a ball python who were all rescues. We did rescue and rehabilitation for a bit. Finding the right home for animals is so important. They bring people together and add so much to your life. MY FOREVER HOME sounds like it will be a good story with people I will be glad I met.
Re: Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses (1:44am November 1, 2018):
I am glad you listened to your friend. It is true that they often see things you don't. We can follow these insights to see where they take us. It is nice to see what talents we can discover and develop.
Re: Cowboy Christmas Jubilee (1:27am November 1, 2018):
This story sounds like it incorporates some of my favorite story elements. The small towns in their own way become characters in the stories. The West is a special place which gives certain characteristics to the people who are born and live there. Thirdly, Christmas. There is just something special about that time of the year. It gives a certain air that promises more and that things will be better.
Re: Wolf Rising (1:10am November 1, 2018):
Good excerpt. It leads into how confusing and dangerous such a shift in one's life can be. Attraction to another is enough to contend with. Having a total change in your being and life is another thing all together.
Re: Wild On My Mind (10:11pm October 3, 2018):
Well run zoos are a joy to visit and good education for the whole family. They are becoming more important every day. Loss of habitat, poaching, interbreeding are all threats to many species. Good breeding programs and management of zoo populations may be the last hope of many species.
Re: A Billionaire Wolf for Christmas (12:15pm October 1, 2018):
The instances I can think of all involve our children. Our oldest daughter was just in kindergarten at the time and our other daughter was a baby. We had talked about swimming lessons and I said I would pick her up for lessons when they started. She thought that meant it started the next day and did not get on the school bus to come home. The bus came, the stop was across the street form the house, but she didn't come to the house. I called a few neighbors to see if she had gone home with their children. No luck. I called the school and she wasn't there. They called back to say the teacher had taken her out to the bus. I called the security police (we lived on an Air Force base) to let them know and have them look for her in case she got off at a different bus stop. I also had them contact the city police. It was mid-January and about 10 degrees. I called my husband, but he was at work in a place he couldn't leave. I didn't dare leave the house in case she came home. After what seemed like an eternity but was likely only 30 to 45 minutes or so, I got a phone call from a man at a local garage. It seems she had tried to walk home and they found her in the snowbank outside their shop. She was so cold and frightened, they couldn't understand what she said until she warmed up a little. A Sgt. from the base had been there when they found her and helped out. He brought her home (I never got the chance to say no, she wasn't supposed to get in cars with strangers). It was such a relief to have her back. You want to hug them because you are happy and punish them for what they did. This was back in 1978 or '79. Concern was there, but if it happened in today's world, I would be in full panic mode. What was really sad, was she walked right by my grandmother's (her great grandmother's) house and didn't realize it. It was just a block from the school.
Re: More Than a Phoenix (12:52pm September 28, 2018):
You certainly took a winding road to your romance writing career. Even with librarians, romance doesn't get the respect it deserves. I was the children's librarian in a small county library. I ordered the romance books. No one else would admit to reading romance. Oddly enough, they read Nora Roberts, J. D. Rob, Diana Gabaldon, and many more who are romance authors. As with anything else, there are good and not so good practitioners of the trade. It has always been case of finding the good ones and spreading the word.
Re: Rocky Mountain Cowboy Christmas (1:01am September 26, 2018):
I have no doubt this will be a wonderful book. I fell in love with your writing style and vulnerable characters in your Search and Rescue Series. Camille and Steve are so very different and so very right for each other.
Re: Mistletoe in Texas (12:43pm September 26, 2018):
Strong women can be intimidating. When they find the man who isn't intimidated, understands and appreciates them, they are both in for a promising future.
Re: How the Earl Entices (11:56pm September 13, 2018):
Every society has its rules and restrictions. If you lived in them, you needed to know what they were so you could obey them and know how to get around them. Even today there are a few rules still left that need to be worked around. I enjoy reading the historicals of any era, partly to discover the societal rules and to see how they will be broken.
Re: Cowboy Charm School (12:07pm September 6, 2018):
When I was looking at colleges and trying to decide what to study, I was considering archeology. (It wasn't really an option for financial reasons, but I was interested.) My dad told me it was a stupid choice because everything had already been found. I look at all that has been discovered since 1964 (my that was long ago) and do wish I had been involved in some of it. There is still so much more out there.
Re: Last Chance Cowboys: The Rancher (2:46am March 30, 2018):
They work hard at a job which is really a way of life they love. It isn't an easy life, but the rewards are more than financial. It isn't a way of life for everyone, but for those it does fit, it is the best there is. It is the kind of job that involves the whole family.
Re: Flight of the White Wolf (2:32am March 30, 2018):
I am not afraid to fly, but there have been times I have been concerned. Anymore, it depends on the mood I am in when I get on the plane.
Re: Real Earls Break the Rules (8:58pm November 27, 2016):
I don't like any one type of heroine. It all depends on the story which one will fit best. Of the ones you listed, the Bluestocking would be my favorite. A lady down on her luck is another favorite.
Re: A Promise of Fire (10:20pm August 14, 2016):
A couple of years ago I read Impatient with Desire: The Lost Journal of Tamsen Donner by Gabrielle Burton. It is a fictionalized look at the Donner Party trip through her eyes and journal entries. She was someone I would have been friends with. Had we lived back then, I would have joined this character I came to know, and traveled west with her. My heart broke for her as the party became snowbound and their world crumbled around them. Knowing what was going to happen, I put the book aside for several weeks. I was not ready to say goodbye to a friend. I cried my way through the last two chapters.
Re: Viking Warrior Rising (9:49pm August 14, 2016):
First, congratulations on your nominations. What an honor. Like the Olympics, just to be good enough to compete is a win. A medal or award is frosting on the cake. I am glad to see you venture in a slightly differently direction for your books. It is always interesting to experience the worlds and characters authors create for their stories. There aren't that many paranormal books that deal with the Norse myths, Gods, Vikings and Valkyries. I will be looking for VIKING WARRIOR RISING and those that follow.
Re: Every Time with a Highlander (9:09pm August 14, 2016):
It has been so long since we have not had total chaos ruling our lives, I have no idea what unstructured time is, other than anything can and will happen. A perfect weekend would be one where the phone didn't ring with someone needing something or sick and in the hospital (our life lately in both cases). We would have a quick breakfast and head into the mountains to go hiking. Nothing strenuous, just easy and enjoyable. We go to church on Saturday evenings, so we would stop for dinner at a favorite restaurant before going to church. In the evening, we could watch one of the many DVD's I keep getting and never have time to watch. For a change my husband won't fall asleep before 9. We are also of an age. On Sunday, my husband gets up early and fixes breakfast (the way most Sunday's start). We have a relaxed breakfast and watch the Sunday morning news and commentary programs. We would go for a walk in the afternoon. At some point in the afternoon, we would call our children to see how their week went and what the plans are for the upcoming week. Sunday afternoon we would grill something for dinner and relax out on the porch. If there is nothing exciting on TV, we would spend the evening reading. Time to ourselves is something we have not been able to manage lately. We are hoping for some the end of Sept. Maybe we can run away.
Re: May the Best Man Win (12:58pm August 5, 2016):
Enemies to friends is always a fun story line. These two seem to be well matched. Good luck with the series. I am so glad your humor comes out in the book.
Re: Gone Too Deep (12:50pm August 5, 2016):
They are all wonderful reasons to care for someone. There is a solidity about him, a reliability, an honesty. What more could anyone want in someone they love.
Re: A Scandalous Adventure (12:45pm August 5, 2016):
You can tell we are women of a certain age. I didn't have the luxury of going to the movies that often, but I remember the features and routine well. My husband did indeed spend his Saturdays much like you did and enjoyed every minute of it. He was a popcorn person, however. I love adventure movies. A good Western, a jungle adventure, or Knights in shining armor all suit me just fine.
Re: Grilling the Subject (12:24pm August 5, 2016):
7 cup salad is easy to make and easy to double & triple if you wish. It is a fruit salad, but not overly sweet like so many are. You use one cup of each go the 7 ingredients: sour cream, cottage cheese, shredded or flaked coconut, mini marshmallows, well drained crushed pineapple, fruit cocktail (no juice), and chopped pecans. Mix together all ingredients and refrigerate. Is better after sitting a day or so. I am going to try your pudding recipe.
Re: His Prairie Sweetheart (11:47pm August 4, 2016):
John Wayne would be a favorite over Clint Eastwood. However, Tom Selleck beats out both of them. I have enjoyed westerns both on TV and in books. Can't beat a good cowboy hero.
Re: Trouble Walks In (11:31pm August 4, 2016):
I really like the sound of TROUBLE WALKS IN. It will be in my TBR Mountain before long. Right now I am trying to catch up on a few mail order bride books. I also have Diana Gabaldon’s DRAGONFLY IN AMBER on my shelf. I usually read the book before watching the movie, but couldn't find my copy. I bought another one and will bring it on vacation to relax and read. I haven't had much time to read this summer and need to sort through my books to see what I will read first.
Re: The California Gold Rush Romance Collection (2:00am July 26, 2016):
We have had pets for the last 40+ years. First it was a dog, then a cat, then various rodents. Over the years, we have had a large number and variety of pets. All important to one or more family members. Currently we are down to 3 dogs, a peacock, and a ball python. The snake and the peacock are mine. The dogs are our son's, but they adore my husband. They all have their moments, but we love them anyway.
Re: Fire Danger (1:48am July 26, 2016):
I like that you are writing about different creatures than we usually see in paranormal stories. There is such a great store of beings in folklore that you will not run out of ideas any time soon.
Re: Almost Like Being in Love (10:37pm July 1, 2016):
For me it would be the mountains. Both my husband and I love the mountains. We grew up in New York's Adirondack Mountains with a view of Vermont's Green Mountains and New Hampshire's White Mountains. When we first got married we lived in northern Maine near their mountains. We lived in Colorado Springs with Pike's Peak the view from our deck. We now live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is in our blood and we love mountains. That being said, we have had some wonderful times on the coast. We are not sandy beach sun lovers. We love the rocky coasts of the Northeast and Northwest. There is a rugged beauty to it. It has that in common with the mountains which is probably why we like it.
Re: Miss Darcy's New Companion (10:23pm July 1, 2016):
Pride and Prejudice is my favorite of Miss Austen's books. The covers reflect a feeling of the period. The cover for Miss Darcy's New Companion is my favorite.
Re: Bride of a Distant Isle (8:44pm March 29, 2016):
Meant to mention that the BRIDE OF A DISTANT ISLE sounds like it will be a good, dramatic read. Best wishes for a successful release.
Re: Bride of a Distant Isle (8:43pm March 29, 2016):
I enjoy a good gothic romance every so often. I have a box of old ones I can dig into when the mood strikes. Du Maurier's REBECCA is a favorite. I enjoyed Victoria Holt's books and got Mary Stewart's books, but haven't read many. There is just something about an innocent, young woman in a questionable situation, a "hero" that you really aren't too sure about, and kind of a spooky, sometimes supernatural element. Great reading on a dark and stormy night.
Re: Wanting More (5:56pm March 29, 2016):
Happy Birthday! I know where you are coming from. I,too, was asked for my ID well into my 30"s. Savor it. There are many times I wish that youthful look was still present. At almost twice your age, I have learned to enjoy every stage and do it on my terms. I was always the odd one and finally decided I was good with it. I enjoy who I am and if they can't appreciate it, it is their problem. That doesn't mean I have an in-your-face attitude. It is just more of a live-and-let-live point of view. We would all be better off if we learned to appreciate what is special about each other. Enjoy your sons and rowdy rescue dogs. The time with your family when they are young is so short. The dust bunnies aren't going anywhere. They will grow and reproduce without your help. Beating them back on occasion is enough for now. You are fortunate to have the job you do. Indulging my inner Peter Pan and vivid imagination was always something I wanted to do.
Re: An Amish Market (12:47pm February 29, 2016):
Silent auctions are common in our part of the country. Several organizations I work with and volunteer for have them several times a year to raise funds. Our church usually has a silent auction during their Fall Festival, as do many of the other churches in the area.
Re: An Amish Market (12:43pm February 29, 2016):
I am so sorry you have been fighting such terrible health problems. You are so lucky to have a truly special man to help you through the days and nights. For me it is important to have someone who is honorable and has a sense of humor. It helps a lot when you have the same interests. We will have been married 44 years in June, and I couldn't have picked a much better soul mate. It is so important that a couple love and understand each other. It makes the rough spots in life easier to get through, and makes the good times so much better.
Re: Montana Wild (10:37pm January 20, 2016):
I have done it. I joined the Peace Corps fresh out of college. I had never been far from home, I attended college in my home town and student taught about 5 hours away. As a sheltered girl in a small, dura, Northeastl town, I went to San Francisco for training and then to the other side of the world for three years. It was an incredible experience. When I returned, I married a high school friend who was in the Air Force. We never were stationed overseas, but we had some wonderful assignments. From northern Maine then New York, we went to Colorado, then Sacramento, CA, and then Washington, DC. We have been lucky enough to experience many different locales. I appreciate what the big cities have to offer, but I need to be out in the country. We now live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I still enjoy visiting the cities and do it often. However, my favorite trips are out in nature, the West being a favorite place to explore. We have been to Montana and it is spectacular. Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana have been our favorite trips.
Re: Taken by the Highlander (2:08am December 30, 2015):
I had to look up the Stonehaven Fireball event. It seems like a wonderful way to ring in the new year. We generally don't do much of anything. My husband gets up early for work and doesn't stay up late. I usually watch the ball drop in Times Square on TV, then go to bed. This year, we are both working on a fund raiser New Year's Eve party for our local Honor Flight group. I still may ring it in without my husband. He said we are going in separate vehicles and he will likely leave early. He gets up at 4 to 4:30AM for work and going to bed early is a hard habit to break. Soon he will be retiring and hopefully his sleep schedule will change.
Re: First Time With A Highlander (10:53pm October 15, 2015):
I have "attended" some of the release parties on Facebook, but not had the pleasure of attending one in person. It must be a great feeling to have your work out there for us to enjoy. Try not to second guess yourself too much after the book comes out. There is very little in life we don't feel we could have done differently or improved. I have never been disappointed with any of your books. I am sure this one will be just as satisfying.
Re: Forever His Texas Bride (10:12pm October 15, 2015):
It is unfortunate that some people concentrate on differences and set themselves above others based on those differences. Past experiences with the "others" may have been bad, but one must not judge all by those few. Prejudice and hate are ugly things and should not be tolerated. I am really looking forward to Brett's story. I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in the series and know this one will be as good. Thanks for the peek into the story.
Re: Royal Flush (11:09pm September 7, 2015):
We haven't been to Las Vegas since 1983. It certainly isn't the same place now. Back the, Circus Circus was the only place to bring children and had only a circus act in the center of the casino. None of the big, showy casinos were there. If you weren't interested in gambling or cheap buffets, there wasn't much for you to do. We hope to go back some time soon to take in all that has been developed since.
Re: The Girl in the Glass (10:57pm September 7, 2015):
The will the-won't they works for several books, but after a time, you begin to wonder if they really are interested in each other. I think some would become of the question and might give up on the series. For me, as long as the stories are interesting, I'll keep reading.
Re: The Good Neighbor (10:51pm September 7, 2015):
I think the most important part is to not feel guilty for taking that special time for myself. I enjoy working in my gardens, something I haven't had much of a chance to do this year due to injuries, and I have missed it. Working in the garden is pleasing for me and the results are something others can enjoy.
Re: A Geek Girl's Guide to Murder (10:41pm September 7, 2015):
I attended my first Ren Faire south of Nashville. Their facility is great and we had a wonderful time. My first loves, however are Celtic Festivals/Highland Games. We attend several each year. Another favorite are Native American POW WOWs. We enjoy both so very much.
Re: A Lady's Secret Weapon (1:52am October 20, 2013):
I like a touch of intrigue and danger in the books I read. Humor is also a favorite. Every once in a while, I like something that is light and humorous, but most of my reading has the suspense and danger elements.
Re: The Outlaw Knight (9:56pm September 29, 2013):
Thank you for the interesting post. The Medieval era was such a time of upheaval and shifting loyalties/rules. I have always appreciated the research you put into your books and the details you include. I look forward to reading THE OUTLAW KNIGHT. Best wishes for a successful release.
Re: Written in the Stars (3:56pm August 28, 2013):
Sherrill and Patricia, I believe that that one look, one date can be all it takes. I met my now husband our junior year in high school. We sat near each other in chemistry and bumped into each other throughout school. His father died that year and his family moved when school finished. We wrote two or three times a year, but that is all. No dating, nothing more than casual friends in school. Seven years later, he is in the Air Force stationed at the same base in CA as my cousin's husband. I stopped by on my way home in NY State for a months break after 2 1/2 years in the Peace Corps before going back to finish the third year. My cousin invited him over for dinner, he took us all out to dinner the next night, and came by to say good-bye when I left. He stopped by my family's home for a couple hours on his way to his new assignment. Five months later, he shows up in the village in the Philippines where I am assigned and proposes. We never did date before that. I made him wait for an answer until I got home a few months later and the wedding was delayed for almost a year because he was sent to Vietnam. However, I don't think there was ever any doubt in our minds after seeing each other the first time in seven years that we were meant for each other. 42 years later we are still going strong and looking forward to many more happy years together.
Re: Love Him or Leave Him (3:23pm August 28, 2013):
In a way it is a shame that the naive, nice, trusting heroine is looked down upon. Don't get me wrong, I like the strong, snarky, self-confident heroines, but not everyone can be that way. Naive shouldn't equate with weak and unworthy and doesn't mean she won't stand up for herself when necessary. There is lots of room for a variety of heroines,so lets enjoy them all.
Best wishes for a successful release of LOVE HIM OR LEAVE HIM.
Re: Once Upon A Tartan (11:53pm August 15, 2013):
My best skill would be my imagination. Unfortunately my ability to stay on task and finish on time are sorely lacking. I have a tendency to take much longer to say what needs to be said. If I were a lawyer, my summations would probably put everyone to sleep.
Thanks for the insight into the similarities between writing and being a lawyer. You made some good points. I have a few of your books and look forward to reading ONCE UPON A TARTAN. I hope the release is going well.
Re: Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir (4:06pm July 23, 2013):
Lucky you! My dream is to own a little cottage in Ireland. I've never been there, but it is our ancestral home and I have been anxious to visit. Our next big trip will be to Ireland and Scotland. Maybe I'll be lucky enough to find such a place in our family's county. I hope you and your husband get to go over soon to spend some time in the cottage. I hope too you get a chance to spend some quality writing time there with or without your husband. Away time can be good for both of you. Good luck with the Irish Getaway and your writing. Bless your husband for being such an understanding and supportive guy.
Re: Lady Vivian Defies A Duke (12:18pm May 24, 2013):
I do love series. It is nice to revisit those friends you made in earlier books. There have been so many series I have enjoyed, it is hard to remember. The most recent I finished was Jennifer Blake's Masters At Arms. It did a great job of portraying the setting, 1840's New Orleans, to the point that if you were even a little familiar with NOLA, you knew right where they were standing in some of the scenes. She also did a nice job of following up on characters in previous books.
Re: Detour to Dusk (10:45pm April 28, 2013):
Nice to see a story that treats vampires as more predatory species and less cuddly friends. Interesting premise of early origins and the means taken to survive. Should be an interesting and intense read.
Re: Her Knight's Quest (12:45pm March 15, 2013):
There have been a few stories I have read that concentrate on only the hero and heroine and do very little development of secondary characters. These books were always meant to be stand alone books and the difficulties facing the main characters was as major a focus as the couple's relationship. These were short books and it worked well for the type of story they were. That being said, I like books that are rich in place and characters. Good secondary characters make a book/story richer. They make you want to spend more time with them and find out more about them. I like series both for the opportunity to learn more about secondary characters I have come to like and to follow up with characters who have already had their story told.
Keep letting them speak to you and lead your story on. It will help make your books richer experiences for all of us.
Re: The Geek Girl And The Scandous Earl (12:00pm March 15, 2013):
Congratulations, Gina. The fact that the story pretty much sold itself is something to be proud of. I enjoy time travel books and this one sounds like a lot of fun. I look forward to reading it and seeing just what happens to your Geek Girl and her Earl. Best of luck with your writing career.
Re: The Mistress Memoirs (1:32am February 20, 2013):
Long separations that result in misunderstandings, acts of necessity for survival, and heartfelt reunions are always good for a story. This interview raises some questions. Why did he have to leave the country for such a long time? How come he doesn't know what his brothers have been up to? How come he was away looking for his enemy when that individual was obviously around at home to step into our heroes place when he left?
It seems there is only one way to find the answer to these questions, read the book. Sounds like it will be fun with a bit of danger thrown in.
Re: Once Again A Bride (5:08pm February 7, 2013):
I was more of an earth child than anything else, but my husband to be was interested in antiques. We went to auctions and junk shops before we got married and have never stopped. It was a good way at the time to get good furniture cheaply. My how times have changed. We were a military family and lived primarily in base housing. We were furnishing a victorian era house we hoped to some day own. We are now retired and have spent the last 20 years renovating the 1898 victorian farm house we found. We may be done some day. The house was in terrible shape, but sound. The wonderful thing is all our furniture fits the feel of the house as do the family pieces we have. My personal favorite is a spindle platform cradle that I got from my paternal grandparents. Our grandchildren are the 6th generation of our family to use it. My favorite from my husband's side of the family are two paintings in gilded frames of flocks of sheep and a lovely and delicate dressing table and chair. All came from auctions his mother attended when he was in high school. Oh, for the days when you could get a victorian oval, walnut side table for about $20. Our bedroom set is a carved oak Eastlake style bed and matching dresser with mirror, both in perfect condition. Price $80.
I look forward to reading ONCE AGAIN A BRIDE.
Re: Lady Eve's Indiscretion (4:46pm February 7, 2013):
I too was in love with horses as a girl. I got a figurine on my 16th birthday cake and that was it. It is just as well. I have since discovered that I am not really a horse person. I am much more suited to reading about them. Our second daughter is and was a pretty good rider until she was thrown and it messed up her hip. They have an old stallion, but he is just living out his time at pasture.
You are so right about your dreams. You may not be able to get exactly what you want, but you'll never know unless you try. Take that first step and keep trying. You may discover something else along the way. No one ever said your dreams had to unfold in a straight line.
Re: The Autumn Bride (11:29pm January 31, 2013):
I do not currently belong to a reading group. I sometimes analyze the books I am reading, but most of the time, I read for enjoyment. If I really enjoy a book, I do tend to look at just why it was so good. ]I worked at a small rural county library for several years. One of the best parts of the job was being able to talk with patrons about books and make suggestions for their next book or author. We would sometimes compare notes on a book and I always tried to see what they thought of it. That is one of the things I miss the most about the job. It was nice being able to order books for different collections. I was the children's librarian, but also the only one that would admit to reading romance, so I had a lot of input into what was being ordered. I have heard wonderful things about THE AUTUMN BRIDE and look forward to reading it.
Re: Waltz With A Stranger (1:52am December 21, 2012):
One of the fictional families I have enjoyed has bee Stephanie Laurens' Cynster Family. This extended family has given me many enjoyable reads.
Going in another direction, I enjoyed TV's THE WALTONS, a very different type of family indeed.
Re: Deliver Me From Temptation (1:42am December 21, 2012):
Great excerpt. I am still sampling the paranormal genre, and this is one I definitely want to read. I hope it does well for you.
Re: Taming the Outback (1:11pm November 25, 2012):
Feisty is a good word. Yes I like feisty heroines, but not those who are overly pushy and too sure of themselves. I like them to retain a certain amount of vulnerability.
Re: Holiday in Crimson (12:18pm November 25, 2012):
Our first Christmas after getting married is one we'll never forget. It was during the Vietnam war and my husband was on a B-52 crew on Guam. I was there, but leaving for his mom's with him scheduled to leave and be home by Christmas. We were just getting ready to head out for dinner then have him take me to the airport, when his pilot's wife showed up informing him all crews were being recalled and restricted to the base. No dinner and a quick good-bye. We did a quick gift exchange before he left - pearls for me and the sales slip for a canoe for him. They started bombing Hanoi the next day. His mom and I waited and worried as B-52's were being shot down. Wonderful man that he is, he called every time to assure us it wasn't him. We did get to celebrate Christmas when he got home in January. MY best Christmas/birthday present ever.
Re: Going To The Bad (10:21pm August 4, 2012):
Loosing those we love is part of life and it is often has a major impact on our lives. Hate to say it, but he had to go some time. Using that passing at the perfect time for your characters growth and development adds much to the story. He will be missed, but even that is important to the story and her growth. I hope GOING TO THE BAD does well for you.
Re: Creating Fate (5:26pm July 23, 2012):
I know just what you mean about the separation. Military families find out early on. My husband was shipped out 5 weeks after we got married. I discovered I was pregnant a month or so later, and lost the baby 3 months after that. Hard when you barely feel married and he is in Vietnam. There were more separations over the years, but that first one was the hardest. When B-52s started bombing Hanoi and getting shot down, I was in Florida with his mom and our 4 month old daughter. With no way to find out if he was OK, we sat and waited. That day, and everyday afterwards during that time, he would call to tell us he was OK and not on one of the crews lost. It showed just how considerate he was and made me love him more. You are so right about the control issue. When they are gone, you are mom and dad, and the schedule is built around you and the kids. You find out just how capable you are and can run things your way. When they come back, there is that readjustment period where he is reintegrated into everyones lives and schedules. It is now time to make decisions as a couple and not a "single" parent. Not easy and lots of couples don't survive it. The longer and more frequent, the more difficult the task. If you work at it, it will make you a stronger couple. You learn to appreciate each other and relish the time together.
Re: Honorable Rancher (10:52pm June 20, 2012):
As the oldest of 6 children born rather close together, books were the one thing I could escape to. II made up and told bedtime stories to my siblings. For myself, I read Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys for starters. On Saturdays, I would go to the library and spend most of the day. Most of the books I read there were nonfiction - science, history, archeology, etc. I have always like suspense and historical fiction. I discovered romances in my 50's. I still read the others, but the historical romances and romantic suspense are my favorites. Books can take me anywhere and give me experiences vicariously that I would never have the opportunity to have. I always have at least one book going and am lost if I don't have anything to read.
Re: Grill Me, Baby (12:23pm June 17, 2012):
My paternal grandmother made poached eggs on toast whenever I stayed overnight with them. I loved it there, but it never tasted as good anywhere else. My maternal grandmother made the best rice pudding I have ever had. No one in the family seems to have the recipe, so I have been buying cookbooks from the 30's and 40's to try and find it. I have found a couple of good possibilities. There were the filled cookies my paternal grandmother made at Christmas that I loved. Luckily, she gave me the recipe and they turn out just like hers. At Christmas my mom made a cake roll with walnuts. cherries and dates in it. She died unexpectedly and my stepmother threw out all her recipes (as well as all our baby and family pictures). Several family members have given me what they think the recipe is, but they aren't the same. For a family meal, my favorite was always a chuck pot roast with onions, potatoes, carrots, and gravy. I make it for our family whenever I can. Thanks for sending us down memory lane.
Re: The Wedding Beat (1:43am May 14, 2012):
THE WEDDING BEAT sounds like it will be an enjoyable read. Perfect for Spring and Summer. I don't know that I ever really had any wedding dreams. I was too busy working my way through college for that. Then I went overseas for 3 years and pushed it to the back of my mind. My husband took me by surprise when he proposed. We discussed our wedding and planned it the way we wanted.Everythng wame off a z
Re: Under Fire (12:22pm May 14, 2012):
Sorry I didn't see this sooner. I love THE MILITARY WIFE. It is so true. My DH was in the Air Force for 24 years. During Vietnam, we did not have the community support the families have now. Even with that support, it is a difficult role and not for everyone. We loved it, most of the time. You make friends unlike any you will ever make on the outside. There is a common bond and understanding that it is difficult for an civilian to understand. We just met up with friends we hadn't seen in nearly 30 years and it was truly like it was only yesterday that we had last seen them. I hope UNDER FIRE does well. Best of luck with your writting career.
Re: Tempting the Best Man (6:11pm May 4, 2012):
As long as Ya books stay YA appropriate there isn't a problem. I was a children's librarian and had to be very careful about what i put in the YA collection. Admittedly I live in an overly conservative area, they kept stealing our Harry Potter books and Twilight didn't fair much better, but there is still a line that should not be crossed. A student or parent should feel confident a YA book at the library will be "safe and appropriate." If they want to heat things up, they can check out something from the adult section. They do and parents approve. It is a matter of "truth in labeling" more than anything else.
Re: Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (5:57pm May 4, 2012):
First let me say that your cover artist does lovely covers for you. All have been wonderful. I was in a no win situation years ago with my family. My mother had died and my dad remarried a real nutcase. I got married 3 weeks before my dad and my husband shipped out to Vietnam 5 weeks after our wedding. Shortly after he left I discovered I was pregnant. My siblings were calling me daily telling me of all the terrible things the stepmother was doing (all true), them my dad would call complaining my siblings were interfering with his marriage, and my stepmother would call and complain about all of them. I tried my best to get them all to see the other's point of view and understand. Nothing worked. After a year of this, I finally threw up my hand and gave up. You can't make people grow up or understand. I told them I still loved them all and wasn't going to take sides. Deal with it yourselves. They weren't happy with me, but they all eventually got over it. I am the oldest sibling and the "problem solver." Sometimes you can't solve a problem. It has to take care of itself.
Re: The Proposal (5:39pm May 4, 2012):
This will be a series I will enjoy. Wounded heroes make the best kind. There is so much room for love, healing, and growth for the characters involved. I will be looking for it. Good luck with the release of THE PROPOSAL. I hope it does well for you.
Re: Darkest Caress (5:31pm May 4, 2012):
That really would have been a goose bump moment. I have felt a very close connection to Native American sites we have visited. Both NAtive American and Celtic music touch my soul. Family lore says there are both Native American and Celtic blood lines our past. I hadn't considered a DNA test to find out for sure what our background is. This does sound like an interesting world you have created. Will keep my eyes open for this series when I go book shopping.
Re: Vigilare (1:31am April 7, 2012):
I wouldn't want to see a female lead be tough in a mean way or one that put down others. I am reading a book now with a heroine with a big chip in her shoulder. It is almost too much. If anyone tries to help or even be nice to her, she jumps down their throat. She is pushing the limit, but of course part of the story is her discovering she doesn't have to be on the defensive all the time. I think women have been held back for so long they seem to be bursting out now. Being the quiet, little woman waiting to be saved is an image we will no longer accept. The reality is that it wasn't true very often in history and isn't true now. There are many capable women out there and men have been threatened by them. Looking at women in leadership roles and the response to them is an indication. If they take an action a male would, they are pushy. If they are assertive, they are bitches. If they are introspective or compassionate, they are hormonal. Only secure men can accept women as equals and it doesn't look like there are enough of those around. thanks for an interesting post.
Re: In Search of Lucy (11:20pm March 31, 2012):
I love road trips. I like to read about them too, but taking them is best. I am the one in our family that plans our trips. You never know what you will see or who you will meet along the way. We never get lost. Those little detours when we are trying to find where we were headed are bonus tours. We have found some awesome things this way. One time driving through Iowa, we got tired of the flat (we have taken that route several times), so I told my husband to take the next exit and turn right. We ended up in Canada, then back to the US at St. Paul, and on down to Omaha which was our original destination. We had planned to go to S. Dakota. Flexibility is always a good thing.
Re: Stud (12:58pm February 9, 2012):
The Harry Potter movies did a very good job of faithfully bring the books to life. The worse job done was when Hallmark took Julie Garwood's Clayborne series and made it into Rose Hill. Except for the opening scene and the names of the characters, NOTHING was the same. They took 3 good books and turned them into a cliche filled piece. People may have liked it, but if they knew the books, the were disappointed. It took me 3 years to get a copy of the tape, and I wanted to burn it after watching it.
Re: Banshee Charmer (8:59pm January 23, 2012):
Tall, dark and handsome is always good, however, like you to me humor is a necessary element. Life and the situations the characters in the books find themselves in are serious enough. A bit of humor helps keep them sane.
Re: Amazon Heat (8:51pm January 23, 2012):
Anthologies are a favorite. Novellas are the perfect length for a quick read. I have read them of vartying lengths. I don't mind short ones (60 pages or so) as long as the characters and plot are developed and handled well. AMAZON HEAT sounds good. I hope its release is going well.
Re: Made For Marriage (8:48pm January 17, 2012):
Great post and excellent advice for those who are trying to get their work published. Not bering in "the Business" I won't be any help. I think you pretty much covered all the bases. The only other thing I have read from other authors, is to enter as many contests as you can and whatever else you can do so you can get your work out there and seen. Thanks for an interesting post.
Re: Hot Rain (10:12pm January 4, 2012):
I am old enough that on-line dating wasn't a factor or an option. I have a nephew who met his wife online. They corresponded for a while, finally met, and married. They have a teenaged daughter and what appears to be a solid marriage, so I know it can work. However, I do know several people who have not had good experiences with online dating. Some of them would not have done well even if the relationship had developed the old fashioned way.
As long as the individuals are cautious and honest, it is as good a way as any to meet someone. People can lie about who they are in person just as well as on line. How many times have you heard "he/she wasn't the person I thought he/she was."
I will be looking for HOT RAIN. I love a good romantic suspense.
Re: Sleight Of Paw (8:27pm December 18, 2011):
I, too, hate to have my picture taken. My soon to be hjusband took a picture of me - I was up on the porch and he was standing on the ground. I have a great "up my nose" shot. Better yet, I'm cross-eyed.
Re: The King's Mistress (8:06pm December 18, 2011):
I am a bit late, but I did want to thank you for your informative ost. I was familiar with the traditions from the Celts on, but not the a=earlier ones. I have enjoyed your books. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a great 2012.
Re: Wild Thing (11:02pm December 5, 2011):
The whole opposites thing is used often in books. As different as we are on the outside, deep down we all want the same thing - to be safe, loved, and respected. Thanks for an interesting post.
Re: Hushed (10:00pm December 5, 2011):
I prefer stories where the romance is a part of the story but not what is necessarily what drives the plot. I like intrigue and more going on. Straight relationship stories with not much else going on other than sex are not at all interesting to me. Most of all, it must be well written, have interesting characters, and an intriguing plot.
Re: Genie Knows Best (2:42pm November 10, 2011):
Judi, I have your Mer trilogy and loved it. Humor is so very necessary in life and there is just too little of it. A story can have serious elements, but told tongue-in-cheek and with humor thrown in, it is all the more enjoyable. I look forward to this Genie series and whatever you come up with next.
Best of luck with the release of GENIE KNOWS BEST.
Re: Attracted to Fire (12:28pm October 18, 2011):
What a great gift pack. My grandson loves hot stuff. Serve the jalepno honey spread mixed with cream cheese on toast or crackers. We have visited :a few places in Texas, but to go bac, for more. Ther is so much to se.w
Re: Against The Storm (12:01pm October 18, 2011):
How lucky for all of us that publishers finally saw the light and picked you up. It is a difficult business to be in. The image of an author sitting at their desk in a book lined study collecting royalty checks is true for very few, I have enjoyed your book for many years and look forward to reading yje AGAINST series,
Re: Too Hot To Touch (10:35pm August 3, 2011):
It has been so long ago I can't remember. The first one I can remember was a fellow student in college. He told me our different religions would preclude a relationship. We were always good friends, but it never developed into anything.
Re: Notorious (1:50am July 29, 2011):
It would definitely be to travel. I can't get enough of traveling and seeing what countries, cultures and Mother Nature have to offer. It isn't fair that men should have all the fun and experiences. Luckily my husband also likes to travel. Unfortunately in our "old age" we are slowing down a bit. We'll just have to take it a bit easier and take longer to see everything.
Re: The Dark Enquiry (7:47pm June 26, 2011):
I have heard before that the image of the Victorians was a bit off the mark. Your excellent post confirms what I have heard and more. I think in most eras there have always been at least a small part of society that doesn't quite fit the mold. In the case of the Victorians, the mold is not what we thought.
Re: Forced to Kill (1:29am June 4, 2011):
Thank you for a very interesting and informative post. Many people don't realize the research and preparation that goes into writing good fiction. It is a necessity to give the books the feel of authenticity. You are correct in putting in enough to give an accurate picture of what is going on without the information dump that could go along with it. I love audio books. My husband doesn't have much time to read, so it has become the best way we can share the reading experience and both "read" a book. Thanks for the giveaway.
Re: The Gin & Chowder Club (11:21pm May 30, 2011):
It tears me up to read books or watch movies that have these heartbreaking scenes in them. That being said, they make for memorable stories that we love in spite of the heartbreak. Thanks for a post that reminded me of some of my favorite movies.
Re: Deadly Promises (2:50pm May 16, 2011):
Have enjoyed several books with SEALs as main characters. Suzanne Brockmann's series comes to mind first. Yes they are special. A story with a SEAL as the hero is bound to be good. SEAL and hero are pretty much interchangeable words.
Re: Wickedly Charming (2:16pm May 16, 2011):
What a wonderfully different approach. I am so glad Deb Werksman recognized a good, if different, thing when she saw it. This totally different approach to fairy tale characters with all too human adult problems should make for enjoyable reading. Best of luck with the release of WICKEDLY CHARMING and with UTTERLY CHARMING this Fall.
Re: Hidden Embers (8:08pm April 22, 2011):
Fall is my favorite season. There is just something about the crisp air, the fall colors, the smell of leaves and smoke in the air. That being said, I do love Spring. I am still amazed by the number of different greens this time of year. New grass, new leaves, plants coming up, dark evergreens all make for a wonderful Spring patchwork when I look out my window.
Re: Laird of Darkness (11:30pm March 23, 2011):
Cookie cutter heroines do get boring. There should be variety because that is what there is in life. Realistically, not all women conformed to or met the standards that were expected of them in any time period. Having someone outside the mold gives the author many more possibilities for the directions the story may take.
Re: Breaking the Rules (12:43pm February 13, 2011):
I have heard of the VELVET GLOVE, but have never ordered it. I had only heard of champagne before my daughter went to college. She added 3 more to my vocabulary. I am sure if I showed her or my son the list (he works at a bar) they would know them. I'll stick with a glass of wine and maybe an Irish Coffee after dinner.
Re: The Color of Heaven (1:30pm February 9, 2011):
What a generous offer. Thank you for the download. It is a shame the publishing industry pigeonholes authors and has a hard time seeing a different side of them. I've never understood the logic of having an author change their name when writing in a different genre. They claim it is not to confuse the reader. If I like the way an author writes in one genre, there is a good chance I will like their writing in another. We aren't always aware of different pen names and are missing out on something we might enjoy. I am glad you finally got THE COLOR OF HEAVEN published.
Re: Society's Most Disreputable Gentleman (12:39pm February 9, 2011):
I think the appeal of the bad boy is a bit like that of the cute little boy caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He throws you that smile that you just can't resist. You know he is a devil, but he is still a sweetheart inside. As he gets older, it just takes the special person to find that "sweetness" and make him realize it is time to settle down with "the one." There is a big difference between the Bad Boy and a bad person. The Bad Boy in romances is rarely a bad person. He may be a bit misguided, rude, arrogant, and need a good swift kick in the butt, however he isn't evil.
Re: Deadly Ties (10:10pm February 7, 2011):
Domestic abuse is something many people don't understand. I have known several such relationships, both physically and emotionally abusive. Two in emotionally abusive relationships had families that were supportive and helped them get out. I think they are almost harder to recognize than the physically abusive. In one, the husband was a teacher, well liked and well respected. Many who knew him didn't believe what the wife said. Too many women feel they have no options. They have either been threatened or convinced they are so worthless no one else would ever want them. Sorry, it is a soapbox I have been on many, many times. I look forward to reading DEADLY TIES.
Re: These Things Hidden (11:13am February 6, 2011):
A good mother tries to raise her children as the individuals they are, encouraging them to dream and to follow those dreams. I too was one of 6 children (the oldest) and had a mom who often worked outside the home and still managed to be there for us and have dinner on the table for family dinners every night. One of my favorite memories is sitting out on our lawn one night, bundled up in blankets and sleeping bags. We lived out in the country with little or no light pollution (this was MANY years ago before yard security lights) and the stars in the sky were incredible. We had hot chocolate and watched a lunar eclipse. It was an awe inspiring experience. It may have been a school night, but she felt this experience was more important than an early bed time. Unfortunately, she died of cancer at 47 and never got to see more than one child married and none of her grandchildren. A great loss for us all. She would have been a wonderful grandmother. Thanks for bringing back good memories.
Re: Mercy Kill (7:30pm January 10, 2011):
I don't really think it empowers me. It certainly makes me think about the situation and how the characters deal with it. However, often it just illustrates how easily we can be victimized and how powerless many of us are to defend or protect ourselves. Not a very comforting thought. Seeing the characters handle the situation and "win" is reassuring.
Re: The Fire In Ember (7:21pm January 10, 2011):
I love them. Don't need princesses per se, but your last paragraph highlights exactly what those princess stories have added for us to draw from when we let our imaginations wander. Westerns and Medievals are favorites. This sounds like one I will enjoy.
Re: I Dream of Genies (7:00pm January 10, 2011):
Another delightful series. I have your mer series and can't wait to get the genie series and read it. It is delightful to have the wit and humor you inject into the stories. Good luck with the release.
Re: Wolf Fever (9:45pm December 15, 2010):
Lots of hot tea with lemon and honey, hot steamy showers, and lots of bed rest. I usually take Tylenol and stay warm too. Don't forget the chicken noodle soup. Haven't had a bad case of the flue since 1976 and hope I don't get it that badly again. I had a 1 and a 2 year old and my husband was out of town. I had to have my aunt come and stay with me for three days. I've never been that sick before or since. I didn't need that much help when I had my babies.
Hope you have a great Holiday Season.
Re: It Happened On Maple Street (8:57pm December 15, 2010):
Good grief, you just proved you are human. It shouldn't be too big a deal to anyone.
Re: Motor City Witch (7:52pm November 26, 2010):
When you think of it, the "rust belt" traits you listed do lend themselves to the urban fantasy genre. With the influx of paranormal inhabitants, both good and bad, a revival could be instigated and supported. Sounds like a good series.
Re: The Christmas Clock (2:13am November 15, 2010):
Sounds like a book I need to read. My dear mother-in-law also suffered from this terrible disease and it broke our hearts. She was robbed of time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. We lost the gift of her presence. Her two sisters also died from it. Every time my husband has a "senior moment", which do come more frequently, he gets worried. I am glad you were able to finally find the elements to pull the story together. Have a wonderful Holiday Season.
Re: The 4th Victim (2:04am November 15, 2010):
Sounds like a wonderful weekend. Hopefully, some year I'll be able to make it.
Re: Holiday Affair (8:38am November 2, 2010):
I used to try to do the super Christmas thing, but no more. I was actually rather successful with the great decorations and baking for a while. Moving into an 1898 house that needed to be totally gutted and renovated, cured that. We are still working on the house and tripping over boxes. It is kind of hard to decorate when you can't find the decorations and don't have any room for a tree. I look forward to being able to decorate and bake again, but it will be in a much more relaxed way.
Re: Simply Irresistible (8:01pm October 29, 2010):
My kind of story. I like the premise of the series and the first couple is a favorite pairing. I look forwar to reading SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE.
Re: An Accidental Seduction (9:42pm October 28, 2010):
We can never have too many heroes. A pony is as goosd as any. When we were kids, our neighbor's collie mix spent aq lot of time at our house with us kids. It was very protective of us. One day when the youngest was crawling towards a stack of rocks near our patio. The dog placed himself between the baby and the rocks not letting her anywhere near them. My favorite fictional hero is Nathaniel from LAST OF THE MOHICANS - the movie. He is everything I look for i n a hero - brave, honorable, a man of his word. thanks for an interesting post.
Re: Mr. Darcy's Obsession (9:08pm October 28, 2010):
As you said, a common point of interest in a book will unite any two strangers. it is an easy jump off point for conversation. Thanks for an interesting post.
Re: Crossing the Lion (8:22pm October 24, 2010):
It takes a lot of discipline to make yourself stay on task. I am not writing, but I have a major project I am working on. It is not going any where as fast as it should. A big part of the problem is my distractability. There is always something else I seem to need or want to be doing.
Re: A Darcy Christmas (10:01pm October 22, 2010):
I have been fascinated by the number of Darcy inspired books that have come out lately. This sounds like it will be a good one. Little Women was a great family story. The girls are older, but you still see growth and the relationships.
Re: Twilight Hunger (12:56pm October 21, 2010):
Have read several of your books and now have quite a few on my TBR shelf. I'll have to check the reading order. The list will also help me fill in the blanks so I can look for the books I don't have. I prefer to read books in order if I can. Thanks for the interesting post.
Re: The Making of a Gentleman (9:36pm October 20, 2010):
I always enjoy when a place or past time I am familiar with is featured in a story. It gives a personal connection to the story and characters. I also like books that touch on topics I am unfamiliar with. What a great way to learn a bit about something new.
Re: Captive Spirit (9:00pm October 19, 2010):
Have been hearing about CAPTIVE SPIRIT the past few months. I have been interested in books set in this time period. Stories of early cultures and peoples in the Americas give us a feel for what came before and how the native cultures developed over the centuries.
Re: Grave Witch (12:23pm October 17, 2010):
Very interesting approach. The Grim Reaper was my first thought, but then I remembered TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL and their angel of death was a pretty nice looking guy. Kindly and benign and not the smirky type. He wouldn't work well in you books, a bit too chaste.
Re: Highland Hellcat (12:14pm October 17, 2010):
I used to drink only tea, but after our son was born, coffee became a necessity. I still enjoy tea and also have a full cabinet of it. I keep several varieties of decaf for my daughters. Neither one can handle caffeine. I also make sure I have a rich cocoa mix for my oldest daughter. She is picky about her hot chocolate and always makes it with warm milk.
Re: Silver Serenade (8:53pm October 14, 2010):
Tyrone is a perfectly awful villain. No redeeming traits are evident. Can a bad guy be too bad? One of the villains that was memorable for me was Magua in Last Of The Mohicans. Thinking of the movie, he came across as a vicious, heartless and cruel man. He did have a reason for being bitter, but he went a bit further than necessary. His detachment from the feelings of others is frightening.
Re: The Secret History Of The Pink Carnation (11:42pm October 12, 2010):
Great post. Most interesting. "History as it should have been." It does add something to historical fiction. I have the first two books in the series and look forward to reading them all.
Re: Sazerac Seduction (5:40pm October 10, 2010):
I had known him since high school, but hadn't seen him in 7 years. We had kept in touch with a few letters a year. I met him again at an Air Force base where I was visiting a cousin. He has a great smile and striking blue eyes. He has always been polite and considerate. This is most evident when he is dealing with his elders. He respects their years and their experience. After his father died he became the man of the house at 17. He tried to lessen his mom's burdens when he could. She once told me she loved coming home from a long, tiring day at work and smelling fresh bread baking. He became a great cook back then. We may be getting on in years, but thinking about him always brings a smile to my lips.
Re: Two Lethal Lies (1:23pm October 10, 2010):
Interesting site. I don't watch enough movies to know who the current actors are. looking at those listed, I know few of the younger ones. I think it is more valid for the author to cast their books. They know what they saw in the characters as they wrote them. It would give us more of an insight as to who the character is supposed to be. Our castings are just our impressions of who these characters could be. I guess in a way that does give the author some feedback about their descriptions and development of their characters.
Re: The 2nd Lie (10:03pm October 8, 2010):
The fight against Domestic Abuse is most important. The number of men, women, and children who die each year from it can not be tolerated. If you know someone who is in an abusive situation, encourage them to get help. It isn't easy and it takes time, but better to try than let something happen to them. If you suspect abuse, report it to the authorities.
Re: Lord Lightning (9:14pm October 7, 2010):
Congratulations on you book. I hope the release goes well. I have a friend that is interested in astrology and reads her and her husband's charts. She doesn't usually do readings for others, but has offered. I haven't yet taken her up on it.
Re: Friday Mornings At Nine (5:36pm October 5, 2010):
What if can be a dangerous game to play. Unless our current situation is really a disaster, why want something different. I am content in my marriage of 38 years. I am sure the path would have been different with someone else, but the path I took had some wonderful surprises and still does. I don't think any relationship doesn't have a few bumps in the road, but unless they are major wrecks, it's OK.
As for romantic films, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE and LAST OF THE MOHICANS are perfect for me.
The 60's and 70's had some great songs. The first one that comes to mind for me is TIME IN A BOTTLE. It says so much about the relationship. I love it.
Re: The Spy Who Saved Christmas (12:20pm October 5, 2010):
My hobbies are reading, gardening, crafts, sewing, traveling, history,a little bit of everything. Writing, playing piano, and painting are things I wish I could do. They take talent which I have discovered I don't have. I can still appreciate the results of those with talent. I have checked your back list and there are several books there I plan to read. I Read the Intrigues and can't believe I have missed yours. Will fix that soon.
Re: Building Magic (9:08am October 3, 2010):
They say variety is the spice of life. Your spicey pancakes seem to be proving that.
Re: Dark Road To Darjeeling (9:04am October 3, 2010):
Actually, I try to bring the book with me. Whenever we travel, I try to select books that pertain to the places we are going. For example, we were going to Northern Maine and staying at a ski liogde in the Fall. I had been reading Janet Chapman's Highlander books which take place in that general vacinity. I had just gotten the fourth book, so I took all four, reread the first three (to my husband while he was driving) and then read the fourth to him. It was kind of neat to be where the story was taking place. On our trips out West, I have historical westerns to read and non-fiction on the pioneers, Lewis and Clark, the texas Rangers, mail order brides, whatever seems most appropriate for the trip. So many books are coming out with recipies, it is easy to celebrate finishing the book by making some of them.
Re: The Spurned Viscountess (12:58pm October 1, 2010):
I've always loved Gothic Romances. Victoria Holt has always been a favorite. I have a box of old gothics I picked up at book sales and yard sales. Every once in a while, when the mood strikes, I'll pull one out and read it.
Re: Sinful in Satin (12:56pm October 1, 2010):
I've always been a vivid dreamer. I am usually myself in the dreams. When I was younger, there were a couple of dreams that repeated everyonce in a while. Dreaming of flying was one that I had frequently in my youth. Guess I'm too grounded any more. I haven't been getting enough sleep lately, and even though I know I'm dreaming, I'm not remembering them as much as usual. What am I missing?
Re: When Wicked Craves (1:06pm September 29, 2010):
I haven't tried many paranormals. I've been sampling the different types, but haven't tried your style yet. It is amazing the different worlds and characters you can create.
Re: Until Emie (10:59pm September 28, 2010):
I'm pretty much into the individual himself. Professors can be sexy - Indiana Jones comes to mind - both in and out of the classroom. Any man is sexy when he is out there spending time with his children, holding his baby. Sexy is an inner thing that shows through their actions. A body building hunk isn't sexy if he isn't a nice person inside.
Re: The Bride's Necklace (10:48pm September 28, 2010):
I have never been a fan of clutch covers. It is what kept me from buying romances all those years. One day I found Julie Garwood's books with covers that had jeweled broaches on a fabric background. Similar to your necklace covers above. I just checked my shelf and realized none of your covers are clutch covers. Part of what attracted me to them I'm sure. I have MIDNIGHT RIDER and the first two of the necklace books. I really need more time to work on my TBR mountain. I like the covers for your new series. I like not being able to see the eyes. I like that they aren't bare chested and in danger of loosing their pants. I really don't get the appeal of those covers. Keep writing your wonderful books.
Re: One Touch of Scandal (11:58pm September 26, 2010):
My Goodie List is a lot shorter than my To Do List. I think anything is shorter than my To Do List. My first treat would be to just goof off for the day, hop in the car with my DH and take a drive in the country somewhere we haven't been before. Another treat would be to go tho the book store. I should really just browse though since a major part of my To Do List is sorting through all the books in my house. (I'm finding books I never even heard of let alone remember getting.)
Great cause to support. We have two rescue cats.
Re: The Echo of Violence (1:22pm September 25, 2010):
It is sad that recent events provide so much material for suspense novels. The world has always been a dangerous place, but not on the scale it seems to be now. Sadly, it is even becoming harder to tell who the good guys are.
Re: Love Me (5:36pm September 24, 2010):
I want the covers to reflect the characters. If the heroine is rounded or full figured and they use an anorexic chic, it is really irritating. You don't have to be a size 0 to be pretty. I like both types of covers if they are tastefully done. Is it me, but are the pant getting lower? Some of these guys better not sneeze or the cover goes to x-rated real quickly. I like something to be left to the imagination.
I prefer real books to e-books. Of course I don't have an E-reader. I still like the feel of paper and substance a book gives.
Re: Venom (12:09pm September 23, 2010):
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is by far the best thing Disney ever did, or for that matter just about anyone else. I have the Broadway soundtrack and play it constantly. The richness of the voices makes it much better than the one from the movie. My other favorite movies are LAST OF THE MOHICANS, INDIANA JONES AND THE RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, and INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE. All three have driving non- stop action and good, strong characters with intense relationships. The play between Indy and his Dad is great. On TV, I like BONES and the two NCIC shows. Zoe Archer's new series is intriguing. It must be the Indiana Jones thing on the cover of WARRIOR. I really haven't read much in the paranormal and urban fantasy fields. Most TV shows in that vein haven't appealed. I think I spook too easily.
Good luck with the release of VENOM.
Re: For the King's Favor (12:31pm September 23, 2010):
I very much appreciate your attention to detail and accuracy. I choose historical fiction to read because I want to learn something about the time and people as well as have a story to read. The details are important. Part of the reason I read historicals is to learn something. If the author can't take the time to make sure he or she is correct in the details, there will be a lot of misinformed people out there.
Re: Petals From The Sky (11:33pm September 20, 2010):
It is interesting how cultural perspective affects the way a life choice is seen. A certain life style may be accepted and admired in one culture, but considered inappropriate in others. Your books sound most interesting.
Re: Feline Fatale (12:52pm September 17, 2010):
We didn't have any pets when I was a kid, except for a cat who adopted us and stayed there for 15+ years. My married life has been another matter. We have had just about everything. Dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, snakes, turtles, chickens, ducks have all made an appearance at one time or another. We have done animal rescue and rehab, usually with baby birds, rabbits and one squirrel. We did foster care for the local animal shelter, keeping young puppies until they were old enough to adopt out. We have also taken care of older dogs who were traumatized. We have a 14 year old lab from our first foster litter and a10 year old terrier from out last foster litter. All of the dogs we have had over the years have been rescue dogs. At present, between my daughter's house and ours, we have: 9 dog ( i have 3 plus one showed up on our porch yesterday and won't leave. he makes 10) ,20 +- cats (strays keep having litters in her barn. I have 2.), 2 horses, 7 llamas. 2 sheep, 4 goats, i pig, a rabbit, ducks, chickens and 2 frogs. At my house in addition to the cats and dogs, I have a ball python and 6 peacocks. I have gotten very good about saying no to any more, although the little dog that showed up yesterday is a real sweetheart.
Good luck with all your series. I'll be looking for them.
Re: Burning Up (10:17am September 15, 2010):
I am a late comer to the genre. I didn't pick up and read a romance until well into my 40's. I will say that the covers were the biggest drawback. Those bodice-ripper covers didn't appeal, still don't. I found Julie Garwood's THE PRIZE at a thrift store. It had a cover with a jeweled broach and swath of fabric on the cover. I took it home and devoured it. I bought every book she had out, at that time just historicals. I started getting historicals and even broke down and suffered through "those" covers to read some good authors. I am now a confirmed romance reader. I still prefer historical romance, but like the romantic suspense, paranormals, and contemporary.
Re: Rebel (10:07am September 15, 2010):
Claire, I have enjoyed you historicals for years. This is quite a switch for you. It sounds like you had fun with it. Always good to stretch yourself creatively. I haven't yet read any of the fallen angel books that are out there and only one or two of the apocalyptic time books. I have one series on my shelf now waiting for the last book before I start it. I prefer to read a series in "one sitting" rather than stretch it out waiting for the next book. You get much more out of the story arc and characters that way IMHO. I like the sound of you world and story line. Your knights in shining armor and damsels in distress have just changed appearance a bit. I am certain they will be great.
Re: Just One Taste (2:47pm September 13, 2010):
I would love to attend a readers conference, but no luck yet. There are some 5 to 7 hours away, but no luck getting to one yet. Maybe some day soon.
Re: Warrior (2:07pm September 11, 2010):
I got a box of wonderful books yesterday and will be starting one of them today. THE COUNTESS AND THE KING by Susan Holloway Scott is one I have been looking forward to plus a blog I follow will be having a discussion of it next week. Don't think I can read that fast. I don't have an ereader yet either. I am fighting it. I have won several ebooks and am not sure what to do. I don't want to sit at the computer to read them. Like you I enjoy the paper format and seeing those books on the shelf bring back good memories. I am also terribly un-tech savvy. I haven't figured out all I can do on my computer or net book yet. Why add one more gadget that will be under used.
Re: Stolen Son (10:55pm September 10, 2010):
True heroes struggle every day to face life's challenges the best they can. They refuse to give up even when they know the odds are against them. It is much more difficult to maintain your courage over an extended period of time dealing with personal and family difficulties than it is to react in the short term to a dangerous situation. The warrior who will rescue the maiden from the bad guy is no more or less heroic than the man who will will marry the one he loves and struggle to provide her and their family a good life.
Re: Desperate Deeds (9:50pm September 8, 2010):
You can not be old enough to have watched Mission Impossible, I Spy, and Man From Uncle when they first came out. You must have been in preschool. I watched them in High School and College. They were favorites. I never missed a show and had crushes of one sort or another on them all. Now I am seeing a pattern. From REBECCA to Victoria Holt, Phyllis Whitney, and Mary Sterwart, then on to Helen MacInnes. Then I moved on to the many wonderful suspense authors out there today. I want suspense, danger, the heart pounding action of the chase and evading the bad guys. The slow deliberate work of figuring out what the bad guys are up to and working to foil them and bring them to justice. I do want the romance and HEA, but I like the relationship to build slowly and make rational and intellectual sense as well as romantic sense.
Re: Warrior (9:11pm September 6, 2010):
Zoe, you had me at the cover. I didn't even have to read the blurb to know I wanted this book. The covers for the rest of this series are awesome. I am a history, travel, suspense and high adventure lover. A touch of paranormal is a bonus. I am an Indiana Jones fan and this book cover certainly taps into that. No accident I'm sure. This is a series I will definitely be getting.
Re: Royal Blood (10:45pm September 4, 2010):
I love books with a sense of humor. We all take things much too seriously and things are serious enough in the real world. You can have a serious story but include wit and humor. I have not yet read either of the series but the ROYAL SPYNESS books sound like some I will enjoy.
I always thought I should become an author. All those research trips I'd just have to take to Scotland, Ireland, Bali, Hawaii....and they would be tax deductible. Unfortunately at some point I'd have to actually have to produce a book. Minor problem.
Re: From The Dead (10:30pm September 4, 2010):
My paternal grandmother was quits the woman. She held the family together through the Depression. She met my grandfather when they were both working at the mill. She used scraps from there to make quilts for her children's beds (I still have 2 or 3 of them). They weren't fancy quilts, just squares, but they did the job. She always had a garden and canned her own vegetables. She survived my grandfather by about 8 years. She stayed in her own house and lived alone until the end. She did all her own house work, yard work, and kept the vegetable garden. I can't ever remember her being sick. She was having an irregular heart beat so they put her in the hospital for tests. The tests were fine and they were going to send her home for Christmas. She was standing in the hall talking to the nurse when she fell into the nurses arms, dead. It was actually a good way for her to go. She led an active, healthy life and didn't have to suffer as an invalid and lose her independence.
Re: Thrilled to Death (12:55pm September 3, 2010):
I agree. A good crime novel has suspense, intrigue and real characters. I read many types of books and enjoy coming across the good ones, no matter what genre they are from.
Re: Atlantis Betrayed (4:31pm August 31, 2010):
Good luck with the move. It will be an exciting adventure. Take advantage of every opportunity that you can while there. As for de-stressing, try to keep things simple. We were career Air Force, but weren't lucky enough to have an overseas assignment. I always moved too much stuff. That being said, leave things that are important to you - antiques, etc- here either with someone you trust or in good, safe storage. You are better off having a huge yard sale (too much trouble for me when trying to move) or contacting a local charity that can use you stuff. We always give our household stuff to Catholic Charities which has a transitional housing program open to anyone who needs help. Housing in Japan is small and you won't need much. The bonus to that is you can furnish your place there with local items and them bring them home with you.
The key is to simplify. Bring as little as you need, take advantage of the local culture in both decorating and travel, and enjoy yourself. Getting rid of stuff on this end that can be easily replaced when you get back is a very freeing experience. It is that much less you have to worry about. As long as the major things like passports, shots, and travel arrangements are in place, things will be fine.
Re: Guarding Grace (6:43pm August 30, 2010):
That is certainly an interesting topic for discussion. A vampire wanting a Cialis moment? Can the little blue pill increase blood pressure and redirect what isn't there? A transfusion of fluids prior to a night of romance could help. It seems you can pretty much make up your own rules for your paranormal world. It is fiction, unless you have a vampire hiding in your basement, and anything is possible, you just have to write it. The paranormal/urban fantasy field has expanded so greatly in the past few years. The variety of creatures, worlds, and situations is amazing. It seems no matter what type of story you want it is out there. I'm still sampling what is out there trying to see what I like best.
Re: Dark Warrior Untamed (10:01pm August 27, 2010):
The first romances I ever read were Julie Garwood's historicals. Her highland warriors were men of honor: brave, tender, someone you can trust with your life. She always gave them a heroine who would give them a run for their money : )
Re: Deadly Fear (10:44pm August 26, 2010):
Getting into a killer's mind isn't a pleasant thought. I'm not sure I want to know how they think. Of course, it makes the story that much better if you know what they are thinking and why, and what the twisted logic is for what they do. I think the most frightening thing is they are human and something any of us has the potential of being. When we read paranormals, I don't think it is as hard to see into the monster's mind and follow his or her thoughts. They are "other" and not us, so in a way we don't have to be as afraid of them because we can't become them.
Thanks for an interesting post.
Re: Bond With Me (10:01pm August 25, 2010):
The cover raises all kinds of questions. It is certainly intriguing. Russia has always projected a "dark" image. It is foreign, remote, cold and powerful. The Alphas are usually depicted the same way. I am very curious about your book and will be looking for it. depicted
Re: Assassin's Heart (5:09pm August 24, 2010):
We could certainly be given second or third or however many chances at life. No great knowledge of previous lives on my part, but there are times when I feel a closeness to a place or event that is a familiarity I can't explain. Why not? There are many unexplained phenomenon. I have had dreams and premonitions of things that have happened (the first one was on my 5th birthday). I have felt and heard things as they happened. Can't explain it and don't really want to. I think many of us have these same abilities when we are young, but we don't develop them either because we don't realize we have them or because our family doesn't want to believe they exist. In my case, I was punished for relating my dream and upsetting my family. I had seen my young uncle who was in Korea killed in my dream and knew he was dead. They got the telegram that afternoon. If it isn't acceptable, you bury it and try to ignore it. It is still there, but not as well developed as it could have been.
I love the sound of both of these books. I look forward to reading them.
Re: Don't Cry (10:04pm August 23, 2010):
My TBr pile is a mountain. I buy books when I find them. When we went to Florida in June, I came home with 100 new books. I didn't realize I had so many until someone asked. It is hard to resist when you go to a flea market or thrift store and there are so many you like. I have over 40 bookcases in my house, most double stacked and 30 to 40 boxes still to be unpacked - no room on the shelves. I try to read and pass the books along, but I have many keeper authors and books. I also collect old books.
Re: Seduced by the Wolf (9:49pm August 23, 2010):
You did a good job of keeping it G- rated. Not everyone has a mind that wanders into R territory, even when innuendo might send them there. I haven't read many werewolf books. This sounds interesting. Good luck with the release of SEDUCED BY THE WOLF and the December release of WOLF FEVER.
Re: Nemesis (10:14pm August 21, 2010):
In the summer, I read lots of Harlequin Intrigues and Historicals or the comparable Silhouette books. Our schedule is chaotic. I don't have time to sit around and get serious about substantive books. That is OK. I have some authors in these series I enjoy. Once the cooler weather settles in, that will be the perfect time to curl up with something warm to drink and a good, serious book.
Re: Whisper Kiss (9:50pm August 21, 2010):
I think the trait would be the ability to breath fire. Many other "creatures" have the other traits, but none that I know of breath fire.
As far as what pulls me into a story, it is well drawn characters and a well developed and executed story.
This sounds like a good series. I look froward to reading it.
Re: The Star Necklace (9:28pm August 18, 2010):
What is in the air over there? A blush worthy trip : ) No nude story. Have been mooned a few times - usually teen boys. When I was in the Peace Corps, I was riding in a horse drawn taxi type vehicle. We passed a young man standing on the side of the road waving his "wares" at the passing carriage. Thanks for the smile. Read this to my husband. He got a kick out of the kilt antics. Thank Heaven he doesn't go commando when he wears his. After this story though, I'll keep a better watch on him : )
Re: Hero (7:13pm August 18, 2010):
I just heard about this book yesterday. I have not read any of this series. Actually, I haven't read any Science Fiction in quite a few years. After reading the description of this book and the excerpt, I need to remedy that.
Reviews can be hard. I remember getting very upset over evaluations of volunteer activities. You need to realize that not everything is someone's cup of tea and they don't care for a particular style or genre. Take it for what it is worth. I read reviews to help make selections for myself and for book order recommendations for a library. I always read as many as I can because there is usually one that will pan the book and someone who feels it is the best books ever written. Toss out the high and low and see what the general consensus is.
Best of luck with the release of Hero.
Re: Rule's Bride (11:35pm August 16, 2010):
Series are a favorite, for many of the reasons you mentioned. What I don't like is waiting month or a year for the next book in a series to come out. I usually wait until they are all out before even starting the series. Your release schedule for The Raines Brothers books is perfect. Have enjoyed your books for years. I look forward to this new series.
Re: Roast Mortem (10:44pm August 14, 2010):
Firefighters are everyone's heroes. Where I grew up they did pancake breakfasts with fresh maple syrup to raise money. Pancake breakfasts at home are always special. Now that the kids are grown and gone, we don't have them very often. May have to whip up a batch tomorrow.
Re: Mission of Hope (10:31pm August 14, 2010):
Sounds like a good story. A disaster brings out the best and worst in man. We don't know what we are capable of until we are put to the test. Best of luck with the release of MISSION OF HOPE.
Re: Hell, Yeah (10:56am August 12, 2010):
Travis, who are you? Why are you in Mingus and how did you manage to land in Cathy's back yard. Sounds like a fun series. Will be checking it out once I dig through some of my TBR pile. Of course I'll have to read I LOVE THIS BAR first. Need to do things in order. Wouldn't want to miss out on anything.
Re: A Highland Duchess (10:44am August 12, 2010):
I love hearing the different processes and paths authors use to get their books on paper (or computer). The number that decided to be authors when they were just children is fascinating. I enjoy your books and would hate to think I would have missed those stories if you had failed to follow your dream. Heres hoping those characters and stories continue to develop for you.
Re: The 1st Wife (10:26pm August 9, 2010):
Not this week, but my old boss was one of those people. When she hired me, she outlined what needed to be done and then opened the door to let me do whatever else I could. Working in a small library is exciting, frustrating, and in this case was wonderful. I got to know and work with some great people. I got to develop and implement new programs. We had an eight year run where she took the library from one that had about 20 patrons a day and no out reach to one with 150+ patrons most days and many in house and outreach programs. Our library was known in the region for doing much with a small budget. It was because of the dedication of the employees. She retired and things changed as they tend to. Small town politics kicked in. The vision for the library took a 180 degree shift. It is now a building with books and no soul. My programs were cut 2 weeks after she left. I was relieved of my job. Both of which my old boss later told me she expected. It was nice to be able to spread my wings and see what we could do. I am finding much of my self-image was tied to that job. I am now trying to redirect my energy. There are a lot of projects to get caught up on. My old boss calls every few weeks to talk and see how things are going. She now lives 8 hours away. We all need friends that encourage us to be everything we are capable of. We all need that pep talk every once in a while.
Re: The Quick and the Thread (2:17am August 8, 2010):
Unfortunately, most people don't realize how much effort goes into setting up for a signing or an expo event. Having done displays and booths at events, it is discouraging to either be ignored or have no people show up. Hope you have more of the good experiences than the bad.
Re: Such A Pretty Face (9:00pm August 5, 2010):
Wow, that last paragraph throws a lot out there. I can't wait to see how it all fits together. Loosing a large amount of weight won't solve your problems. You are still you and unless you deal with the factors that resulted in the weight gain, you will have problems of some sort. The weight can still come back, it will just take a while.
Re: The Smuggler And The Society Bride (11:49pm August 4, 2010):
I guess I like to see the characters overcome hardship and roadblocks to get to their HEA. I want more than just a relationship story. I want a bit of intrigue and suspense. Throw in a bit of danger and a misunderstanding or two to spice things up. Have enjoyed your books and look forward to reading this one.
Re: The Goddess of Fried Okra (9:58pm August 3, 2010):
My last boss was a friend and a boss. She hired me and let me develop programs and spread my wings. It was nice having someone believe in me and let me put my ideas into action. Not many are like that. When she retired, I found out just how lucky I had been.
Re: Veil Of Night (8:53pm July 31, 2010):
What a wonderful time. Thanks for keeping us posted.
Re: Monster in Miniature (8:39pm July 31, 2010):
I cruise the shelves at stores and libraries lookingnat all the books. I will read just about anything. It just needs to sound like a good story with good characters. At the library where I worked, we shelved fiction by the authors name. Since all genres are mixed, people are exposed to everything. It helps them discover authors they may otherwise not try.
Cozy mysteries are becoming more popular. A good thing.
Re: The Ark (12:03pm July 30, 2010):
Anymore, it seems no matter how much you stretch your imagination, reality either follows you or is there to greet you.
Re: Barely A Lady (9:00pm July 28, 2010):
OK, since we have opened the door to cartoons, my favorite villian is Gaston from BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. He is handsome, the women in town are all drooling after him, and the men admire him. He is a self important, braggart who will do anything, no matterr how vile, to get what he wants. He is the type that hides how evil he is well. Good post.
Re: Knight Of Passion (12:48pm July 24, 2010):
I have your first two books in this series. I've just been waiting for this one before I start. Once I start reading a series, I have no patience to wait for the next book. So, most of the time, I'll wait for them all to be out before reading them. It keeps the continuing characters and the story arc fresh in my mind. Congratulations on the awards your books have already garnered and best of luck with the ones you have been nominated for. Best of all, are the readers response to your books. I have heard nothing but wonderful things about them. It has made it hard waiting for book 3. I believe your next series will involve Highlanders. I hope so. My very first romances were Julie Garwood's medieval and Highlander books. Those settings are my favorites. Readers shouldn't stress about your heroines. They should know you would only give the hero the best he deserves : )
Re: The Tutor (1:20pm July 22, 2010):
Now I'm curious. He may be the Tutor, but if they are so great together, is she really going to marry her "dry as toast" fiance? What a waste.
Re: Tomb With A View (3:34pm July 20, 2010):
I don't tell ghost stories, but we do have several that live with us in this house. Everyone except my husband has experienced them. I'll have to check out this series. I haven't read much in the paranormal field. There is so much out there, it is a matter of finding what appeals to my tastes.
Re: Moonshine (3:24pm July 20, 2010):
You are so right. Good characters can not exist in a vacuum. They need more that the villain to make their personality come across. Friends or sidekicks bring out the different sides of their personality and tell the reader who this character really is. Like the excerpt. We all need friends like this.
Re: Ice Cold (9:10pm July 18, 2010):
I am so jealous. I was planning to at least be at the signing this year, but the flood took care of that. I have non-refundable reservations in Nashville for RWA which of course had to be moved to Orlando. I just heard of RWA last year before the conference and was excited to find it would be only 5 hours from home. Maybe some year I'll make it. There are a few authors whose sites I visit regularly (Emily Bryan for one) that I wanted to meet. With the number of authors there I am sure I would be able to at least see many of the authors I admire. I'll think of you while I sit around doing nothing in Nashville, wishing I were there. I've invited my daughter and grandchildren to come and join me. That means a week of sitting around the pool which is not something I usually do.
Have a great time.
Re: Suck It, Wonder Woman! (9:47pm July 17, 2010):
Interesting how very different crowds can be. A little scary some times, but they aren't always what they seem. We ended up among a group of bikers one day. A bit intimidating until we realized a couple of them were retired military like us and many were baby boomer professionals. Sounds like it was interesting among the geeks.
Re: Revenge for Old Times' Sake (12:15pm July 17, 2010):
If you are a people watcher, you will rarely get bored. If they want a private conversation, they shouldn't be carrying it on in a public place for everyone to hear.
Re: Fortunate Harbor (12:32pm July 15, 2010):
Friends are important. We don't realize just how much until we loose them or are too far away to be with them much. When you live in a place where you are considered an outsider and excluded, the friendships, even casual ones, you once took for granted take on a very different import. Treasure your friends, hopefully you'll never know how much you will miss them.
Re: Murder in the Abstract (12:45pm July 14, 2010):
I think the bad boy brings out the mothering instincts in most women. We should know better, but once he throws you that dimpled smile, you think he can't be all bad. We can change him, give him what he needs to settle down and behave himself. Right. We will never learn or give up hope. Sounds good.
Re: To Conquer a Highlander (10:01pm July 13, 2010):
I collect books and bookmarks among other things. I have way too many books. I have collected old books since finding my first one (an 1865 book on being a housewife and mother) when I was in High School. I have a mini-library in my house, well not so mini. I have over 40 bookcases and 30 to 40 boxes of books. I of course have my keeper books. The "regular" books I read and then send them on their way. The problem is, I am finding books faster than I can read them. I also sew and am staying as far away from fabric stores as I can. Not enough time to sew. Most of what I have sewn in the past few years have been costumes or regalia for pow- wows. I am hoping that our house will be finished soon (an 18 year remodeling project) so I can get into my sewing room to finish some old projects and start some new ones. A highland outfit for me is next. My husband finally got his tartan kilt, etc. I have the scarf, so I need a skirt, blouse, etc to go with it. Civil War outfits are next.
I love the sound of TO CONQUER A HIGHLANDER. My kind of story. It will probably find its way onto my keeper bookcases with all the other Highlanders.
Re: Ice Cold (7:50pm July 13, 2010):
Had to look up the Dugway Incident before commenting. It is hard to believe that intelligent people would even consider open air testing using the methods and quantities they did.
What scares me? The dark, heights, and spiders. All of which I have learned to deal with. Just don't make me deal them when I am overtired. At that point, a noise will wipe me out.
Even though I can be easily creeped out, I love a good suspense. Your books always deliver.
Re: The 1st Wife (12:43pm July 10, 2010):
I think it would be hard not to have a part of you or what you know show up in your books. It is natural. The old saying, Write what you know, would certainly reflect that. I am watching for your books. Best of luck with the rest of the series.
Re: The Wild Irish Sea (9:53pm July 8, 2010):
The cottage on the Irish coast is a dream of mine. I know it idealized, but I could certainly handle it. I have my own hero to take along, so we are all set. Sounds like a great story. I like the romances I read to have mystery and suspense. It makes them that much better. Congratulations on the book and good luck with the release.
Re: Crush On You (3:18pm July 6, 2010):
I do like friends to lovers stories. As you said, they already know each other so well. It sounds like I will enjoy Clare and Gil's story.
My husband and I were casual friends for a year in high school and wrote each other a couple of times a year for 7 years after that. We weren't close friends who knew everything about each other, just friends. When we saw each other briefly after 7 years, he came half way around the world 4 months later to propose. A shock, yes, but not an upsetting one. I think knowing someone outside a romantic relationship builds a firmer foundation for that relationship. I think it is true that you should like someone as well as love them.
Re: Home is Where the Bark is (2:31pm July 5, 2010):
We have had many pets over the years. We currently have 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 snake, and 7 peacocks (3 are chicks just a week old). Olivia, is a 14 year old lab mix. She is such a sweetheart. I'm afraid she won't be around too much longer. She will be sorely missed. We have an 8 year old terrier mutt that is an absolute nut. She has that annoying terrier yap and bounced all over the place. She is a goofy, funny, wonderful little dog.
Re: Unchained (2:22pm July 5, 2010):
You certainly can't pick your relatives or often how you get along with them. Family is dictated by more than just birth. There are those who become family and are treated as such. I accept people for whom and what they are. None of us is perfect and we can't expect it of anyone else. My favorite family tradition was getting together for Christmas midnight mass, then going to one set of grandparents for brunch afterwards. We would then go home and open our presents and go back to bed. Christmas Day, we would go to the other grandparents' house. We all live too far away to maintain that tradition and our children don't live close enough to do it. It is unfortunate because it was such an important extended family time. I like the sound of your series. RAVENOUS is on my TBR Mountain. Hopefully I can read the two books together.
Re: A Cutthroat Business (7:14pm July 3, 2010):
I always did wonder about realtors who met strange people in empty houses, sometimes at night. Perfect setting for an unhappy ending. The books sound like fun, I am enjoying (needing) books with a sense of humor. Best of luck with both of your series.
Re: Dark Embers (5:38pm July 3, 2010):
No rasl favorites. However, the are a few I am not fond of like zombies and demons. It depends on the story and the character development whether or not I like a particular character.
Re: Her Sheik Protector (8:40am July 2, 2010):
First lines really do help set a story up. Julie Garwood is an author who has great first lines in her books. "They meant to kill him." Honor's Slendour "But for the gerace of God and an untied shoelace, she would have died with the others that day." Come The Spring "Bad things always happen during the night." Ransom "Donald MacAlister didn't die easy." The Wedding
Re: The Fire Lord's Lover (12:30pm July 1, 2010):
Interesting post. I love little tid-bits.
Re: Rapture Untamed (8:25pm June 29, 2010):
I love series. I love stand alone books, too, but series allow for greater character and plot development. I like to know what happens to characters after a book ends. This allows us to follow them for a longer time and if they are not the main characters in the next book at least be able to check in and see what they are up to. Following a series can be a problem. Finding and reading book 2 or 4 before you realize it is a series or having to wait so long for the next book in the series. Some of the series I have enjoyed: Julie Kenner's demon hunting soccer mom, Janet Chapman's Highlanders, Karen Moning's Highlanders, Christine Feehan's Drake Sisters, to name a few.
Re: The Master & the Muses (1:15pm June 29, 2010):
The physical "beauty" of the character isn't high on the list. It is the inner character that is most important. In a heroine or hero, I look for an honorable and honest individual. They don't have to be perfect and may have to grow greatly during the story, but in the end they are a good person. In the end, they should do what is right for the greater good, not just for their own self interest. They can have a variety of character flaws, but basic goodness and honor must be present.
Re: Fatal Affair (4:08pm June 27, 2010):
He must have a good heart. It may be buried in a cynical shell, but that is OK. He must be reliable, have a sense of humor (though not be funny). He must have an ingrained sense of honor and morality. Someone who is full of himself and doesn't respect others is an automatic turn-off.
Re: Dark Flame (1:46pm June 27, 2010):
Welcome, Becky. What an exciting time for you. You couldn't have a much better place to find out how things work. It should be fun and an interesting time for you. Best of all, you get to meet authors and read books. What more could we ask for?
Re: Hidden Wives (9:39pm June 26, 2010):
I haven't had time to read for a while until recently. I'm on my second book this week. They have been OK, but they are not grabbing me. I have a terrific TBR shelf, but haven't hit it yet. Partly because I don't really have time to get wrapped up in a book that I just can't put down. Another part of it, is I have been looking forward to reading these books and don't want to be disappointed. The last book I read that grabbed me was IMPATIENT WITH DESIRE by Gabrielle Burton. It is about the Donner party. Not light summer reading, although reading about people caught in the snow may appeal to some who are suffering in this heat. The main character, Tamsen Donner, became a friend and if I had met her in the 1846, I would have gone with them on their trek to California . I didn't want to finish the book. This is historical fiction. I knew how it would end. Somehow, I felt I could keep them alive a little longer if I didn't finish the book. It was like loosing a good friend. It was such a good book. I want to find another that draws me in. There are some good prospects on that shelf, I just need to take the leap and try one.
Re: Sworn To Protect (11:11pm June 25, 2010):
Sound like great books. I like the books I read to have strong heroines. Mystery, suspense, and intrigue are all important too. Sounds like your books fill the bill.
Re: The Devil She Knows (8:40pm June 22, 2010):
It truly depends on the hero. With some, their identity is tied to a place, as in your examples. With others, their personalities and sense of purpose is so strong they are bigger than a place. No matter where they find themselves, they will take over and do what needs to be done. Either one works, it all depends on the story and the character.
Re: Summer Sanctuary (9:40pm June 21, 2010):
Go For It! Every year I would put out displays for Banned Book Week and people would be very surprised at the books on the list I posted. The books I pulled for the display spent most of the time checked out. I worked in a small county library in rural TN - a rather conservative area. The first Harry Potter book was replaced over 8 times the first year or two. Some were checked out and kept and some were taken so no one could read it. With each Potter book I would have people come to the desk to complain about our carrying the book. Of course none of them had actually read it. They were just repeating what was being said in their church. Before I lost my job, they were complaining about all the vampire and paranormal books. Censorship by theft was a big problem. We had 3 books on Darwin, but didn't realize they were missing until someone tried to check them out. I checked the records and none had ever been checked out. Chances are they were taken as soon as they were put out. I talked to my children's groups about censorship all the time. I had three children from a conservative family in my group. They were among the ones not allowed to read Harry Potter - evil, magic, wizards, dragons. Their cousins were allowed to read them and watch the movies. They were surprise at the books on the banned list. The son who was in 6th grade made the best comment I had heard in a long time. He said, "Our parents can tell us what to read, but they don't have the right to tell anyone else what they can read." Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and tastes. Those are no one else's business. That applies to everyone. So if your tastes go to christian fiction, enjoy. There are some very good authors in that genre. However, if someone else prefers romance or paranormal, that is also their right and you shouldn't be giving them a hard time. I r
Re: Smooth Talking Stranger (8:30pm June 20, 2010):
As usual, our children and their families came over and we grilled and ate on the porch. We got back from vacation last week, so we went over some the the things (books) we brought back. Was a nice relaxed afternoon. Afraid I can't think of any books primarily about dads in a crucial role. I know I have read them, but at the moment I am drawing a blank. (must be because all those dishes are waiting for me and the kitchen needs to be cleaned up.) Hope everyone had a great Father's Day.
Re: The Lies We Told (10:21pm June 18, 2010):
This sounds like a good story line. Liked the video. You are right, movie videos are much easier to put together. The characters and story are already there in pictures, you just need to pick and choose what you want. With your book video, you must go through the casting process and make the pictures that highlight your story. Some videos miss the mark. Yours is nicely done. Good luck with this book. Your books are popular at our library.
Re: Stolen Son (9:49pm June 18, 2010):
The inciting incident isn't necessary for all stories, but it can make a big difference in one. It doesn't guarantee a great story, but a major event/transition point sets things up for a good writer or director to make a really good one. You have mentioned three of my favorite stories. A major event can totally change your priorities and take a closer look at your life. Good post.
Re: Dragon Unmasked (8:31pm June 16, 2010):
I am suffering a reading drought right now. I was reading about 3 books a week when I was working. I lost my job in February and ended up spending more time on the computer. The author and book blogs I visited for my job were mine to explore as long as I wanted. I discovered more sites and spent more time on the computer. Now I have little time left for reading. We just went on vacation for two weeks and I brought a bag of books as usual plus books on CD. I read only a few pages and listened to most of the book. I also bought books (100 of them, I counted today). You can take the librarian out of the library, but you can't take the library out of the librarian, or her house. I'm trying to set more time aside for reading. I enjoy it so much. I read just about everything and enjoy most of it.
Re: Hidden Wives (7:54pm June 13, 2010):
This story has a setting of interest. Few stories deal with this topic. A secretive abd closed society that keeps outsiders away. I am looking forward to reading HIDDEN WIVES.
Re: Seducing the Knight (7:44pm June 13, 2010):
Sounds great. This is one my favorite time periods. Using a different setting for the story makes it even more appealing.
Re: The 1st Wife (10:25am June 9, 2010):
I also grew up in a small town. I have lived in both small towns an big cities. There is so much good about both ways of life. I like the pace of life in the small towns, but the cities have so much to offer. We lived in suburban DC for 5 years. We took advantage of it when we were there and our kids were the perfect age. We go back now to take in what we missed because it wouldn't appeal to the kids or what is new since we left. I like the sound of your new series. Best of luck with it.
Re: Ancient Whispers (7:37pm May 31, 2010):
First of all, congratulations on your win and debut novel. It certainly took stamina to hang in there and face the public critiques and voting.
I was always very shy. Even in college I managed to get out of the public speaking course required for all teachers. I paid for that. I joined the Peace Corps and found myself in a very public position overseas. Working with classes and workshops for teachers was no problem. However, within a few months of arriving on assignment I was introduced to the entire town and led to podium to give a speech. I discovered that day that your knees really to shake and knock. If I had not had the podium to hold on to, I would have not been able to stand. I really don't think I have ever been so nervous. I survived and public speaking doesn't bother me anymore.
Re: Blown Away (8:04pm May 30, 2010):
I tend to wait until the whole trilogy is out before I sit down to read them. For a three or four book series this works. This way the characters and story arc are fresh and I don't loose any of the thread of the plots and sub-plots running through the books. I am waiting for the rest of Stephanie Laurens BLACK COBRA 4 book series to come out so I can sit down and read them.
Re: Dead in the Family (1:35pm May 29, 2010):
I haven't had time to think about my summer reading yet. I have HAUNTING BEAUTY by Erin Quinn on the shelf and the sequel HAUNTING WARRIOR sounds really good. Also Leanna Renee Hieber's second book , THE DARKLY LUMINOUS FIGHT FOR PERSEPHONE PARKER, is out. I really liked her first book, THE STRANGELY BEAUTIFUL TALE OF MISS PERCY PARKER, and will probably reread it before reading Book 2. Donna Grant's FORBIDDEN HIGHLANDER, is another historical paranormal I'll probably pick up. A contemporary I don't yet have is STRANGE NEIGHBORS by Ashlyn Chase. It sounds like it will be fun. I have got to get my hands on Judi Fennell's Mer Trilogy. It sounds really good. Those should keep me busy : )
Re: The Journey Home (1:12pm May 29, 2010):
I know just what you mean. We always think we'll have more time than we do. My step mother threw away all my mother's recipes in one of her crazy rages and none of my siblings had gotten any of mom's recipes before she died (at 47, of course we had more time). I've gotten a few of mom's recipes from my aunts, but they just aren't the same. I've purchased dozens of old cookbooks trying to find recipes that match some of my grandmothers' dishes. I've come to the conclusion that it is more than the ingredients that count. There is something personal that gets added to the mix and there is no way to duplicate that.
Re: Die Twice (10:16pm May 28, 2010):
This is a series I'll have to check out. Always looking for new suspense authors.
Re: His At Night (10:04pm May 25, 2010):
You have hit the reason I read and love historicals. My favorite authors are those who include the very little details you mentioned. I want to know the little details of everyday life for all levels of society. Ken Follett's PILLARS OF THE EARTH and WORLD WITHOUT END cover two time periods. They deal with everyday life, politics, the church, medicine, commerce, the plague, apprenticeship, building bridges and churches, the list goes on. It is well researched and full of details. Both were wonderful books and a treat for someone who loves those little details. I'll be checking out your books. Thanks for the interesting information in this post.
Re: Band Of Angels (3:14pm May 25, 2010):
Bolting, I love the term. My husband was an Air Force brat and then in the Air Force himself. I was from a family where all the relative lived in the same town and nobody left. I bolted first chance I got. First Peace Corps training across the country in San Francisco (as far from Upstate New York in so many ways as you could get) for training and then to the Philippines for 3 years. I travel all over the country every opportunity I had. At the end of my tour, I had a three month trip planned from Singapore, to Indonesia & Bali, Malaysia, Thailand, India, then through the Middle East. I made it as far as Bali, then back to Singapore before getting new my Mother was dying and I flew home. Would love to do that trip, but I am almost 40 years older, and it wouldn't be the same. I married an Air Force man figuring my travels would continue. Two years after our wedding, he was transfered to my home town where we spend the next 7 years. Not part of my plan. Wr had 3 more good assignments - Colorado, Sacramento, CA and Washington DC. We retired to Tennessee Which was half way between our families. Sounded good at the time, but it is 12 hours to one and 15 hours to the other. We are kind of stuck, can't afford to move. We do however travel whenever we can. We took advantage of all the places we lived, seeing as much of the country as we could. We are now either revisiting places we liked or exploring new places. We are finally going to the Everglades and Key West in a few weeks. Just in time for the oil spill and hurricane. I can be packed and ready to go at a moments notice and am more than willing to do so. My DH will probably retire in a couple years (if the house is paid off), then look out. We are bolting for Scotland, Ireland, England on our first trip and then where ever else we might feel like going.
Re: Sex And The Single Earl (5:50pm May 21, 2010):
Small towns are great. Yes everyone knows your business, but that can be a good thing. People are less likely to misbehave if they think people they know will find out about it. Of course, there is not a whole lot of privacy and gossips can make more of something than it is. I'd still rather have that than the impersonal treatment in a really large city.
Re: The White Shadow Saga (5:35pm May 21, 2010):
You brought out some very good points for the aspiring author. Self- publishing may be the "short-cut" to getting published, but it isn't the easiest way to be successful. The job is only half finished. Good advice for anyone who is promoting a product or business.
Re: Lover's Knot (5:21pm May 21, 2010):
Amazing how clear things can become in that half light state when our consciousness is half in the dream world and half awakened.
Re: On Folly Beach (3:02am May 19, 2010):
I am so sorry you lost your Grandmother. You were lucky to have had her in your life for so long. I too come from a large family. It is wonderful and chaotic when everyone gets together. A few have started compiling family histories and photos. We are all spread out today, that we are missing a very important part of family life. When I grew up, my great grandmother, all 4 of my grandparents, my Mother's 8 siblings and Dad's 6 siblings, plus the multitude of cousins all lived in the same area. Add to that a large number of great aunts & uncles and some second cousins, and we were quite a crowd. There was always someone around (we averaged 15 cousins at our house most weekends) and you got to know the generations and hear the family stories. We do not live close to any family and my children and grandchildren barely know any of their relatives. We have tried, but it has been a long time since everyone could travel to a family get together. It is really a loss that can't be replaced. There is the feeling of being a part of something and truly belonging.
Re: Web Of Lies (10:21pm May 17, 2010):
Urban fantasy gives an author a lot of leeway to do pretty much what they want. You get to create your own world and the rules for that world. And as you said, you get to throw in action, magic, drama and romance. Pretty cool. Can't beat that for a good job to have.
I read almost everything but horror and extreme erotica. I like a good suspense novel. I love historical romance and historical fiction. I like intrigue, suspense, strong characters and a well developed plot.
Re: A Thread So Thin (7:20pm May 16, 2010):
I had imaginary friends, they inhabited the stories I made up and told my siblings when I was a child. They are still there in the stories i make up in my mind today. Haven't made it to paper yet. Maybe one day
Re: Silent Truth (3:15pm May 15, 2010):
Oh man, I wish I could go. It sounds like a terrific time. We already have 3 trips planned for the rest of this year. Maybe next year. You have some great authors lined up.
Re: Small Change (3:08pm May 15, 2010):
We all need our friends to help us make it through life. sometimes it is for little things. Sometimes it is for major challenges. And sometimes it for the major disasters that befall us. It is great to know they will be there for us.
Re: Getting In (12:04pm May 14, 2010):
My daughter has worked in college admissions for a little over 10 years now. First at a state university and now at a community college. Oddly enough the community college is a more mature and professional place. Knowing some of her experiences, I am sure no matter what you have in your book isn't far from the truth. In addition, I remember our trips looking for colleges when she was a senior. I'm sure I'm in there too. This sounds like a book she would appreciate.
Re: Silent Truth (8:41pm May 11, 2010):
Sounds like a good suspense. The choices needed to be made when a life is in danger are difficult. Who knows what choice we would make if faced with it. I have WHISPERED LIES waiting to be read. I look forward to reading which sounds like a great series.
Re: A Thread So Thin (9:12pm May 8, 2010):
I will read just about anything, except erotica. The YA genre has certainly boomed lately. Not only is the market flooded with YA books, but the quality of the writing is for the most part very good. Yes, they are YA stories not adult books, but many of them are still good reads. I read for a lot of different reasons and enjoy many type of books. YA has a place in the market and on my reading list. I think those authors that are writing YA as well as adult won't "defect" to the YA camp leaving their adult readers stranded. Just like authors who write in a variety of adult genre and do well in all of them, these authors can add YA to their body of work and still keep up with their adult works.
Re: The Jaguar Prince (11:48pm May 7, 2010):
Cute. But it is true. You do get the sounds of nature. Of course it is mating season for our peacocks right now. They are really noisy and I can't hope they would fly away. They don't bother me anymore, but I'm not sure about the neighbors. My son is threatening them with being Mother's Day dinner. Then their noise sets off the neighbors' dogs and ours join in. The cows in the pasture join in and on some days (nights) the donkey down the road joins in. I don't even want to know what type of shifters are waiting out there.
Re: Rumor Has It (11:46pm May 6, 2010):
Sounds like a fun read. I have lived in small town most of my life, do now. It is so true that little goes unnoticed. That has its advantages, but also its drawbacks. Rumors do get started and for some unknown reason are really hard to stop. Good luck with the release of the book. Cute cover.
Re: In Shelter Cove (11:56pm May 4, 2010):
In any genre, I like heroes who are tortured. They have been falsely accused, had a great loss, are struggling to do what is right. Something is trying to crush their spirit. They are strong individuals that are fighting to prove themselves or are ignoring falsehoods that are trying to destroy them.
Re: His Border Bride (11:46pm May 3, 2010):
My favorite hero is also a Highlander. It is Brodick Buchanon from RANSOM by Julie Garwood. All of her heroes are wonderful, but he and Gillian, the heroine , are special. He is a bit of a rogue, but has a vera good heart.
Re: Think Twice (10:29pm May 2, 2010):
No books I would say to avoid. I didn't get to read much in April, only 3 or 4 books. Finished BREAKING DAWN by Stephenie Meyer. It took a few unexpected turns, but was good. I read two books in a series by Carla Neggers and will definitely be reading the last one. I read THE WIDOW and THE ANGEL. Next up is THE MIST.
Re: Blood Of The Demon (8:59am April 30, 2010):
I am still in the sampling stage of reading paranormal. There is such a wide variety of sub-genre and directions the books are taking it is rather exciting. You can take you pick, dark and creepy, light and fun, or a blend of the two. With the variety of story lines out there anyone should be able to find something they like. The quality of authors is encouraging. There are some not so good books out there, but for the most part, no matter what you are looking for you will find it written well. Rather than leave a class of books you enjoyed, look around and try some new authors and new story lines. Tired of vampires, there are witches, genies, angels, mermen (and women), ghosts, demons, fairies, the list goes on. This field is one of the most dynamic in the business at the moment.
Re: The Fallen (8:41am April 30, 2010):
So many readers consider characters a reflection of the authors. I would hate to think what that says about some authors when you consider some of the books and characters out there. I love a good suspense and your books have characters very much tied into today's critical issues.
Re: Just Like Me, Only Better (10:17pm April 27, 2010):
Lets face it, the image of authors, at least with people I know, is that you are successful and financially secure once that book gets published and sales are made. You can just keep pumping out more books and filling your bank account. No problem. Lets face it, unless you are familiar with the publishing business, you have no clue what it really is like. Most people, even aspiring authors, think you write your book and in a few months it is on the shelf, you have people lined up buying it and waiting for you to sign it, and the money starts rolling in. They don't realize how many years it can take to get something published and how much of the book's sale price they will really get as profit. I guess all those adjectives you listed apply for good reason.
Re: A Thread So Thin (9:56pm April 27, 2010):
I joined the Peace Corps and was to leave a month after graduating from college. A week or so before I was scheduled to leave, Our old 4-H agent (and one of my references for the Peace Corps) offered me my dream job - develop 5 outdoor classrooms, write the curriculums, and run the program for a school district on Long Island. I went with the Peace Corps because I had already made a commitment and had some training. The other job would have been fantastic, but with budget cuts, who knows how long I would have had it. I met some wonderful people and had some fantastic experiences. I made the right choice.
Re: The Teaberry Strangler (10:36pm April 25, 2010):
There are a few authors and series from other authors that I just have to have - Karen Moning, Janet Chapman, Julie Garwood, Christina Dodd, among others. There are, however many other authors whose books I search out and read at the library. That was one of the things I loved about working at the library. You knew when books were coming out (and often got it first) and I could introduce authors to people. We discovered Laura Childs about 3 years ago and have made sure all her books are on the shelf.
Re: Rule's Bride (11:06pm April 23, 2010):
Love your books, Kat. The first of yours that I read were PERFECT SIN and WICKED PROMISE. I still have more of yours on my TBR shelf. I think what I like most about your heroes is that they are not always the nicest people. Their goodness comes out in the story, but it takes a while for it to work its way to the surface. No pretty boy nice guys so far in what I've read. Your characters are always complex and the plots have many twists and turns. This series sounds good. I'll definitely be looking for it.
Re: Beautiful People (10:40pm April 21, 2010):
Very funny. I do like your sense of humor. I like dry wit and the sense of the ridiculous. Having a character who is clueless and innocently making comments which can readily be taken in a way other than they were meant is funny. She/he usually doesn't have a clue what they said, or they only realize it after it has been said. Funny for everyone else, but embarrassing for the individual. Been there, done that. Call me clueless : )
Re: Maid for the Millionaire (10:13pm April 20, 2010):
We should all celebrate those milestones of our lives. The more spectacular the better. As you get older, each milestone is even more important. I think people forget to just celebrate life and all the little things that make it worth living. Those milestones become times for us to look where we have been and where we are going. Then we can decide it the path we are taking is what we want, or if we need a little detour or a whole new direction. Enjoy writing your books for us to enjoy.
Re: Silent Truth (9:34pm April 19, 2010):
My passion has changed over the years. Other than my family, my passion has always been working with children. I've always done something with them in some capacity. Until recently I was a children's librarian which allowed me to combine with my other passion, books. I am suffering from children withdrawal at the moment, but at least I am surrounded by books. I am working with my grandson and am trying to work out something with his homeschool group so I can teach and introduce them to new books. May be a little problem there, I think my daughter is afraid to expose them to me. I am probably too liberal and open for them.
Re: Building Iphone Apps With Html, CSS, And Javascript (12:56pm April 18, 2010):
My whole house is a book stash : ) There have been a few times lately when I have felt I needed to read a particular book because I really should write a review and I wasn't in the mood for it. I keep looking at the shelves of books with others calling my name. I have a bunch of books waiting for me now but I am reading BREAKING DAWN by Stephenie Meyer because I really want to finish the Twilight series. I am enjoying it, but am worrying about what I'll read next. I have a feeling no mater what I choose, I'll be wishing I were reading something else. I wish I could read one book a day. I hoped to gi
Re: The Firefighter's Secret Baby (10:27pm April 16, 2010):
I have been waiting for this books since reading the excerpt last year during your DARK LEGACY lead up blogs. I haven't read the rest of your Atlanta Heroes series, but by the sound of things I'd better remedy that. Good luck with the release.
Re: The Mage In Black (11:22pm April 12, 2010):
I lived in the library when I was a kid all the way though college. I've always either had access to a library, or had my own at home. I am the oldest of 6 and the library was my way to get some peace and quiet. I lived for Nancy Drew (my aunt had the complete collection from when she was younger) and other mysteries. My other love was science and archeology. My daughter and her son are both dyslexic, so it has been frustrating trying to get them to love books. Audio books have been a godsend for him in particular. I've gotten him the Hardy Boy sets that have the book on CD and the book so he can follow along.
Re: Big Bad Wolf (11:21pm April 11, 2010):
I like reading series, but I can't imagine why they would present the story out of order. It really confuses things way to much. As you said, if you are constantly trying to figure out who is who or what happened to someone it detracts from the story. I have no problem with reworking a story, but put it in order within the series. You want us to follow your series, don't make us need a map and directions.
Re: If I Were Your Woman (10:24pm April 9, 2010):
These topics need to be dealt with. Those people that must deal with these problems still have lives and still deserve a happily ever after. Keep writing away tackling those touchy topics.
Re: Reunion (11:18pm April 8, 2010):
Lindsay, Have enjoyed your books for years. Have not read any of the Nocturne's though. I have only read paranormals the past year or so. The WARRIORS FOR THE LIGHT series sounds like something I would enjoy. Will have to search out the first 3 and keep an eye out for the new one. That necklace is truly spectacular. I'm heading to the internet to find out more about it. Would prefer to go to Peru to see it : ) Good luck with the release of the rest of the series.
Re: My Own Personal Soap Opera (9:27am April 7, 2010):
Loved the post. Humor really is relative. What we find humorous varies so much from person to person. I have never gotten the male "locker room" humor. To me it is just not funny. Crude, often, but to me not funny. Slapstick humor makes me groan more than laugh. I like farce, situational humor. Your books sound like fun reads and these days we all need those.
Re: On Shadow Beach (9:05am April 7, 2010):
The "bodice ripper" covers never appealed. I don't mind couples, but lets keep their clothes on. Landscape covers like yours are good, as are covers that have items that pertain to the story. I don't know why, but I like the current trend of not showing full heads/faces. I think it is the eyes say much about a person and I still like to create what the characters look like in my head.
Re: Just Fooling Around (7:39pm April 5, 2010):
Our son-in-law is a postal carrier. They showed up to sort mail at 6:30 or 7AM as usual. The postmaster told them they would have to watch a 30 minute training film before being able to start sorting for the day. Amid much grumbling, the film started as all post office training films do. A couple of minutes into the film, their post master's face popped onto the picture with a big smile and "April Fools, get to work and have a good day."
Re: Lake Magic (1:20pm April 5, 2010):
Last month I finished listening to ELDEST by Paolini I'm not working anymore, so my drive time for audio books is gone. I read SINFUL SURRENDER by new author Beverly Kendall. It is historical romance. I enjoyed it. A good first book. Personal preference, but this is a relationship book and I prefer books that have more than the relationship as the driving plot line. THE ANGEL by Carla Neggers. Good suspense. It is the second book in a series. It stands alone, but I liked the other characters and am almost finished with book one, THE WIDOW. I will definitely be reading book 3, THE MIST. I may not be working, but I certainly am not getting much reading done.
Re: The Darcy Cousins (1:04pm April 5, 2010):
Monica, look at what you wrote - "now that you have created them, they will go their own way, and you can't do a thing to stop them." That statement is a perfect description of a child and they are yours. What it sounds like, is if you would listen to them in the first place, you would save yourself a lot of work and rewriting. I have to smile when authors say they were trying to write a story a certain way but their characters would not let them. Maybe they are real on some other plane of existence and writers are just channeling them. (Don't know where that thought came from. With what is being written out there, that is a scary thought.)
Re: A Certain Wolfish Charm (12:48pm April 1, 2010):
The book sounds like fun. I hadn't heard of those drinks before my daughter went to college and came home to tell me about them. Zombies were the thing when I was in college, back in the Dark Ages. I have seen a few reviews for A CERTAIN WOLFISH CHARM and they have been good. I can't imagine trying to craft a story with a cowriter, but it have obviously worked for you. I look forward to reading this book. Good luck with the next one.
Re: Flirting With Forever (8:32pm March 29, 2010):
I love time travel books. I have gotten very behind in my reading. SEDUCING MR DARCY is still on my TBR pile as are all of Diana Gabaldon's books. FLIRTING WITH FOREVER and TUMBLING THROUGH TIME are on my To Buy List. They all sound like fun in addition to being good stories.
Re: Big Girl (9:00pm March 22, 2010):
The first adult novel I read was an historical, LYDIA BAILEY by Kenneth Roberts. I think Victoria Holt was next. The first real romance author I read, was Julie Garwood.
Re: Something About You (8:40pm March 22, 2010):
Sounds like a good story. what made you decide to make it a humorous thriller? Murder usually is not a humorous situation. I like a snarky relationship between the protagonists of a story. It adds a bit of spice.
Re: Do They Know I'm Running? (8:27pm March 22, 2010):
Music is a very good image to use and relate to for fiction. The colors, flow and character of music lend themselves to the movement of a story.
Re: The Highlander's Sword (8:24pm March 22, 2010):
The Scottish Highlands and men in kilts - that right there is the start to a good story. Have seen reviews of this book and it sounds like one I want to read.
Re: Forget Me Not (8:21pm March 22, 2010):
Whimsey is good. People need to not take themselves too seriously once in a while.
Re: The Stolen Crown (8:19pm March 22, 2010):
Have heard many good things about this book. I expect accurate historic details in the historical fiction I read. Susan, it is obvious you take your research seriously. That will make the book that much better.
Re: SEALed with a Ring (3:20am March 15, 2010):
I have seen this book on may sites. all I've read about it sounds good. It sounds like the kind of book to pick up when you need to escape into a modern, alpha military hero romance. Don't we all need one of those every once in a while.
Re: The You I Never Knew (2:28am March 15, 2010):
I prefer to laugh. I like serious books, but tear jerkers give me a headache. If you want to cry, try Karen Kingsbury's OCEANS APART. Susan Elizabeth Phillips' WHAT I DID FOR LOVE has many smiles, but is in the end a serious book in its own way.
Re: The Stolen Crown (2:22am March 15, 2010):
I have started reading more historical fiction lately. I've read historical romance for years and have always preferred those that were accurate in their historical and daily life details. Historical fiction promises that and more. I've heard of this book on several other sites and look forward to reading it.
Re: Plaster And Poison (1:16am March 5, 2010):
How great for you and your story that this name was there and popped out at you. Not only that, but his death was a murder. As you said, it is enough to give you chills. I hope you do find out more details about him.
Re: Truly, Madly (10:49pm March 3, 2010):
I believe it can happen. It was sort of love at second sight for us. We went to high school together for a year or so, then didn't see each other for 7 years. He was one of many friends whose fathers were stationed at the nearby Air Base. I wrote to several of them once or twice a year after graduation. I say him briefly after 7 years while stopping to visit my cousin . He showed up 5 month later and proposed. No dating, we just realized we were right for each other when we first met again.
Re: Lake Magic (12:58pm March 3, 2010):
Sounds like a good book. I usually wait until the whole series is out . I'll don't like waiting for the next book in a series to come out. Good luck with the release.
Re: Seeing Red (1:14am March 1, 2010):
February was not the best of months. My commute wasn't that long, so I am still working on ELDEST by Paolini - 2 more discs to go (there are 20). I lost my job mid-month so my drive time has dried up. I have a very large pile of audio books. Will have to set up a time and place to listen to them in the house. Finished PERCY JACKSON AND THE LIGHTENING THEF. I am working on MOST LIKELY TO DIE by Lisa Jackson, Beverly Barton and Wendi Corsi Staub and started then put down ANGEL by Carla Neggers. I'll pick it back up when I finish MOST LIKELY which has been good. I'm in the mood for an historical romance, so I'll be checking my TBR pile for one.
Re: The Mane Squeeze (1:03am March 1, 2010):
I was a children's librarian until a week or so ago. I found myself reading junior, middle school and YA books just to keep current with what was out there. I also did deliveries to seniors, so was checking out authors they might like. Then I was in charge of the library book club so was reading and selecting books for that. Now I am going to be able to attack my TBR pile and read something for me. Not that I didn't enjoy the kids books. I'm actually working on three series I started in both J and YA. I'm currently reading MOST LIKELY TO DIE by Lisa Jackson, Beverly Barton and Wendi Corsi Staub. Next will be an historical romance.
Re: Cowboy Trouble (2:23am February 28, 2010):
I love the sound of your story. I like serious, but lately a sense of humor has been needed. Independent, sassy, and funny are a good break from work, a bad economy, and now unemployment. Funny you should mention a heroine with a disability. There are a few books out there with them, but not many. Catherine Anderson has one confined to a wheelchair in PHANTOM WALTZ, but off hand, I can't think of any others. There are many books with scarred and injured heroes, but one gets the impression that a woman can't be desirable if she is likewise afflicted. You can be smart, sassy, capable, have a sense of humor, and be sexy even if you need a cane to walk or have other problems.
Re: The Texan's Happily-Ever-After (8:49pm February 25, 2010):
Karen, Glad you are back to dealing with real issues. It is important to bring these things and how to deal with them to light. Date rape is something that is still not taken seriously by many law enforcement officials. That said, you deal with 3 issues in this book. It sounds like a good read. I look forward to it.
Re: Easter Promises (12:49pm February 25, 2010):
I'll have to get this book for my daughter. She will enjoy it. We are pretty careful with our animals, the are all doomed to non-reproductive lives when they join the family whether they are, dogs, cats, sheep, goats, or llamas. My passion is reading. Hard to choose just one topic. It really depends on my mood.
Re: The Cowboy From Christmas Past (10:30pm February 23, 2010):
Like anthologies. They are good for a quick read and sampling authors. I like your aunt's way of dealing with snakes. It is what we'd do. Like the sound of COWBOY FROM THE PAST.
Re: Take Me If You Dare (9:59pm February 23, 2010):
Great evaluation of the movies and actors. I am not a big movie goer and have not seen any of the ones nominated. I will probably watch part of the Oscars just out of curiosity.
Re: Fantasy in Death (9:52pm February 23, 2010):
Can't believe there have been 30 books in this series. I don't know how she does it, producing so many books under both her names.
Re: Kayla's Daddy (9:06pm February 18, 2010):
I guess you have to listen to the voices in your head. If a book needs to be written, you'd better do it. Sounds like it will be a good series.
Re: Lights, Camera...Kiss The Boss (8:54pm February 18, 2010):
Why not have an environmental/nature based romance. The genre has been approached from just about every other direction. Keep those ideas coming. Good luck with the release.
Re: Accidentally Demonic (8:47pm February 18, 2010):
Sounds like fun. I like my paranormal with a sense of humor.
Re: Viking in Love (1:11am February 4, 2010):
Sounds like great fun. Wouldn't have thought of the Dixie Chicks as a Viking inspiration, but why not. The story line certainly works. I've read a few viking stories over the years and their portrayal of the Vikings was evenly split. They were either presented as blood thirsty invaders or intelligent, caring explorers. I'll be checking out your Viking books, especially Viking In Love.
Re: Dangerous Highlander (7:15pm January 5, 2010):
This sounds like it will be a good series. A little magic, Druids and men in kilts. What more could we want?
Re: The Beautiful Being (1:36am December 17, 2009):
I have an acquaintance who finished her first book last spring. She was collecting rejection letters and getting rather upset. I don't think she realized how hard it is to get published. She is still upset she hasn't gotten any offers.
Re: Knit The Season (1:02am November 28, 2009):
We are just organizing a book club at our small library. The Friday Night Knitting Club sounds like a good candidate for one of our picks. Will enter for the book club "visit" if we do.
Re: Over My Dead Body (12:51pm November 28, 2009):
I nominate the library where I work. As with most small libraries, our funding is lacking. I do what I can to make the pennies stretch, but there are always more books than I have money for. I am the children's librarian, but help select and purchase for the whole library.
Re: A Father For Jesse (12:46pm November 28, 2009):
Free is good, especially this time of the year.
Re: Take Me For A Ride (9:58pm November 25, 2009):
When my sister first started cooking, she decided to make a cake. She saved back some of the batter, divided it into smaller bowls while the cake was baking, and added different food coloring to each bowl. When the cake cooled, she "frosted" it with a rainbow of raw cake batter. It was interesting. None of us knew what the frosting was until we ate it. The sad thing was she didn't believe us when we told her that wasn't the way it was done. Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving.
Re: Prime Evil (12:49pm November 22, 2009):
I have stories in my head but don't write them down. There are times when the plots change, or I revisit them and try them different ways. If I wrote them down, they might stay the same.
Re: The Monuments Men (12:51pm November 21, 2009):
Had heard of these people a year or so ago. It is truly sad when a culture's works are stolen, destroyed, or lost. These people did the world a service by making sure these great works are available to share for many, many years
Re: The Splendor Falls (11:22pm November 19, 2009):
Have not yet read it, but it certainly sounds like one I need to check out for our library. Will have to check on her other books too. She sounds really good.
Re: Dark Legacy (2:08am November 19, 2009):
Followed your blog tour and your posts before DARK LEGACY came out. like the plot premise. Look forward to the second book in the series.
Re: Men Of The Otherworld (2:06am November 19, 2009):
I vote for Charles.
Re: Over My Dead Body (1:25am November 17, 2009):
You are so right. I was lucky to have two very different grandmothers, but they were both good cooks and knew how to make due. There were 9 children in my Mom's family and 7 in my Dad's. I know things were tight many times. I'm the oldest of 6 and my Mom was a wonder at getting meals on the table. I love to cook and taught all our children early on how to cook. Now that they are grown and out of the house I don't cook much. My husband, also a good cook, gets home from work before I do, so most of the time he fixes dinner. I look forward to the holidays and all the cooking it entails. I remember all the wonderful family get-togethers. I can close my eyes now and smell Christmas dinner at my grandmother's. I really cherish those times and miss them.
Re: Prime Evil (1:15am November 17, 2009):
Nice article on the evolution of the vampire stories. It is interesting the many variations that are out there in the worlds built by authors.
Re: Dead Pan (11:27pm November 15, 2009):
Am glad to see your book will come out in large print. Our library is always looking for more series to put out for our patrons who need large print. Good luck with the releases.
Re: Kill Zone (1:20am November 14, 2009):
What a lovely post. You are so right about putting things off and waiting for the time to be right. I spent the time as a military wife putting things off. We retired because my husband had cancer and I was working full time for the first time. For one reason or another, things were delayed. I'm at the point now where I'm at the edge of it's too late. I have enjoyed most of what I've done, but exploring a few possibilities, like writing, were left behind. I think I'll aim for the Fairy Godmother slot. That really would be a great career.
Re: Love You To Death (2:21am November 13, 2009):
Appearances aren't everything. A nice body can hide a rotten soul. Nice looking helps, but it is the inner person that I am drawn to.
Re: Willoughby's Return (2:16am November 13, 2009):
You have certainly done your research which is good for us. Such detail makes the stories so much more real. I think I'd like a nice day dress and wrap. Ball gowns are lovely, but I'd like something more practical.
Re: Children of the Night (8:21pm November 11, 2009):
Never really read any vampire books until a few years ago. Have read some of Christine Feehan's and Maggie Shayne's books and the Twilight series. Enjoyed them all. Am sampling more paranormal books lately, so I'm sure I'll be "seeing" more vampires.
Re: Bunco Babes Gone Wild (7:47pm November 11, 2009):
Didn't take the quiz, but would think there would be a little of each Bunco Babe in us all with one being a bit more dominant. Good luck with the release of BUNCO BABES GONE WILD.
Re: Spinning Forward (8:33pm November 10, 2009):
You were wise to do what was right for you. As with anything, when it is time, it is time. Best of luck with your release. I wish you all the best on this and your future books.
Re: Wild Blue Under (12:52pm November 10, 2009):
I had no idea this book had such a sense of humor. It will be a nice change of pace. We all take ourselves much too seriously. These books will obviously not be what I had expected them to be. They'll be better. Good luck with the release of WILD BLUE UNDER!
Re: Kindred In Death (12:38pm November 10, 2009):
Holds are down a little at our library, but I don't think is is so much the price of the book as much as the fact that people seem to be really busy. We are a small library with a small budget. We get only one copy of a book. Usually some one will donate a second copy of the best sellers so the waiting time is reduced a little. I like series and will follow them as long as the characters and the plot line stay fresh.
Re: Rainwater (9:30pm November 7, 2009):
Lovely video. I'll have to check and make sure we got this one in at our library. I'm pretty sure you are a standing order, but I need to make sure. If we don't have it, you can be sure our patrons will let us know. I watch a lot of book videos and like them. There are some very good ones out there, and some that they should have forgotten about putting out. The best I've seen lately was for a western romance. I like yours: short, sweet and to the point. Amazing what you can do on short notice. Good luck with the releases on all your new books.
Re: One Lucky Cowboy (12:23pm November 6, 2009):
I know a book is great when I find myself laughing like a fool when I'm by myself. It is a joy to find one of those, they are just too rare. We all need more opportunities to laugh.
Re: The Wrong Side of Dead (12:10pm November 5, 2009):
Nice trailer. Too each his own as far as the marriage is concerned. There are a lot of odd marriages out there. This one could well be better than several I know of. Good luck with THE WRONG SIDE OF DEAD. Will be checking on your books for our library. We need some more suspense authors.
Re: Killjoy (11:58pm November 4, 2009):
There are lots of good villains (that doesn't sound right) out there. My "favorite" is Magua from LAST OF THE MOHICANS. He has his reasons for being nasty, but he is cold heartedly brutal.
Re: Captive Desires (11:54pm November 2, 2009):
So true. Anyone who participates in the arts and "performs" is a magician. Dancers, singers, potters, writers, painters, sculptors, to mention a few all change our lives and transport us with their work. Just think how dull our lives would be without them.
Re: Remembering Ashby (1:09am November 1, 2009):
What a powerful excerpt. The best part, and a great hook, you have no idea where this story is going next. Will certainly want to read this one.
Re: Haunted (1:51am October 31, 2009):
I'm only familiar with the witches in Practical Magic and Molly Weasley. The witches in Hocus Pocus were a lot of fun. Bette Midler outdid herself. Of course there are a lot of witches in the fiction out there right now. And we get to enjoy as many of them as we wish.
Re: Final Approach (1:45am October 31, 2009):
Funny, but I use the same tactics you do with the candy. If I bought early, the candy never made it to Halloween. I got stuff the kids like, but my husband wouldn't touch. Unfortunately, I have a sweet tooth and like almost anything. Never did the recycle thing unless the kids got home early. They would sort their own candy and give me what they didn't want. Good luck with your book. Hope it leads to a successful writing career.
Re: What The Duke Desires (2:29am October 30, 2009):
I enjoy family series. Family can be loosely defined. One of my favorite family series is Julie Garwood's Rose Trilogy (For the Roses, The Clayborne Brides, and Come the Spring). The are family in the strongest sense of the word, but none share the same parents We recently returned from an Air Force unit reunion. It is a relatively small group of people, and some of the best people We've ever known. We only see them every 2 years, but it always seems like just yesterday we were together. Family is what you make it, and a strong bond is one of the most important things.
Re: Mr. Darcy Vampyre (12:44pm October 29, 2009):
An interesting variation on a story. I like the traits you give your evil vampires. Well, like isn't exactly correct. The traits you give the story more body and variety. Interesting blog.
Re: The Pelican Brief (12:03pm October 28, 2009):
Unless there is a reason for a specific ethnicity for a role, I think open casting is a good practice. As long as you get the essence of the character from the performance it doesn't matter so much what they look like. I can think of some movies where they cast a name actor for a part because of his/her fame and they just didn't fit the part. It changes the feel of the story.
Re: Silver Silence (11:55pm October 27, 2009):
Have enjoyed your books. SILVER SILENCE sounds like it will be another great one. Can't wait to read it.
Re: My Unfair Lady (1:59am October 27, 2009):
Nice letter. Will be looking for your books. Love finding new authors.
Re: Fool Moon (9:36pm October 25, 2009):
While we were on vacation a few years ago, our son was attacked by a bear behind our house. We go home 2 days later about 2 in the morning. About 4AM our 3 dogs went crazy barking and trying to get through the front door and the window in our bedroom. We could hear something banging around outside, knocking the furniture off. I got up and turned the porch light on. Was the bear back? No, a cow had gotten out of the neighbor's pasture and was stuck on the porch trying to get off. Short night.
Re: Santa Honey (1:40am October 24, 2009):
You are right to be concerned. Some may look at the e-book as the savior to the business, but it is more likely going to speed the decline. It is much easier to distribute an ebook with the author getting nothing. I read of successful authors being dropped, being told to what to write, and in one case, a planned 10 book series was cut after books. It is disturbing to think of the publishing business collapsing. What would we do without our books? I certainly have no answers, but there has to be some way to stop the viral spread of pirated ebooks. In the publishing world, we need them to relax a little and realize that cutting back on what they offer will not reduce their losses or increase their sales.
Re: Possess Me At Midnight (11:39pm October 22, 2009):
Wonderful series, Shayla. You may get 100 different descriptions of what love is or how to tell if two people are in love, but we know it when we see or read it. It is just a little different for each person and you wonderful authors keep showing us in your books. Keep writing those strong stories and bringing your characters together.
Re: A Marquis To Marry (11:03pm October 15, 2009):
Sounds like a good trilogy. I enjoy historicals that have a family link and a link to real events. Will be looking for your Duke and Marquis and waiting for the Earl in April.
Re: Soulless (8:36pm October 13, 2009):
Steam punk makes me think of THE TIME MACHINE and 20,000 LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA, if my understanding of the genre is correct. Have heard about it a bit lately, but not read it.
Re: The Hunt (10:27pm October 12, 2009):
Sounds like you have a great start to your new career. It is so hard to have to start over. You have done well.
Re: The Promise (10:21pm October 12, 2009):
I want to read everything. When I find an author I like, I get all their books and try to start at the beggining of their works. I currently have boxes of books by authors (new and old friends) that I want to read. I know there are a lot of good writers out there I haven't found yet. I'll keep sampling all the authors and genres I can and know I'll find ones I like.
Re: A Hollywood Ending (10:12pm October 12, 2009):
Julie Gqarwood has always been a favorite. Have enjoyed Nora Roberts, Johanna Lindsay, Linda Lael Miller, Jo Putney, Patricia Rice, and many, many more. Hated to name any, because I knew I'd leave someone out.
Re: In Love with Losers (7:46pm October 9, 2009):
Keep up with your writing, LaToya. One needs to do what they love. If we can influence and inspire people for the better while we do it, the all the better.
Re: The Lute And The Liar (12:19pm October 9, 2009):
You are so right. The old saying "write what you know" really doesn't apply to what so many writers are doing today. The paranormal genre is only one example. Good research and/or a good imagination can fill in a lot of blanks and open a lot of doors for both author and reader. Good luck with your books.
Re: Out Of The Darkness (12:13pm October 9, 2009):
A big change for you. Am sure you are enjoying it. I used to wonder why authors wrote under a variety of names, but now understand. It can be confusing to pick up a book by a favorite authors and end up in an entirely different genre. Good luck.
Re: Can't Stand the Heat (10:24pm October 6, 2009):
A Christmas short story with Adam sounds like a wonderful way to put a little joy into the season.
Re: Love You To Death (10:59pm October 5, 2009):
Wow, you are one busy lady. This book sounds very good. Love a good suspense and yiu nprovide it.
Re: Demon Ex Machina (10:51pm October 5, 2009):
I have been waiting soooo long for DEMON EX MACHINA. It is waiting for me when we get home from vacation. Will we have to wait another year for the next book in the series? Look forward to your new series.
Re: Hex In High Heels (12:30pm October 3, 2009):
This book sounds like a fun romp! Don't know how I've missed this series, but it sounds like a lot of fun. I'll be looking for it.
Re: Angel Lane (2:36pm October 1, 2009):
Sounds like fun. I never throw anything out. Even if it doesn't look right, it can still taste good. You are going to eat it, not look at it. Look forward to reading your book. It sounds like an enjoyable read.
Re: A Dark Love (7:06pm September 30, 2009):
Does anyone ever listen when we tell them the guy is all wrong? Seldom. My daughter's first husband was such a case. We tried to hint and say something. He was verbally abusive. Even his mother told her not to marry him. We lost a small fortune when he cancelled the wedding a few weeks before it was scheduled. Hated to loose the money, but glad to loose him. Unfortunately, our daughter wouldn't give up and they got married by a justice of the peace 8 months later and then told us. It lasted about 2 years. The only good thing to come out of that marriage was our grandson. Good luck with your new book.
Re: Bluegrass Christmas (11:03pm September 29, 2009):
Quirky is good. It is good to recognize all parts of our personalities, even the ones we don't particularly want to claim. Sounds like a good Chriatmas story.
Re: Lucky Break (10:50pm September 29, 2009):
Love books with a sense of humor. We all need that, now more than ever. I've always liked the beauty and the beast type scenario. It doesn't lend itself to humor as well as some others, but I like it.
Re: Lakeshore Christmas (9:31pm September 27, 2009):
I know how you feel. I'm not a writer, I'm a librarian. I plan activities, prepare snacks, and print handouts. No one shows up. The publicity was fine, but no one shows up. Even local authors may only attract a few relatives. I do displays at local events and sit forever with few interested in finding out about the library and what it has to offer. I have gone to signings and wish more would be close by. We are on a trip to Texas and hope to come across a signing or 2 by the many authors there.
Re: The Accidental Family (10:29pm September 23, 2009):
Oh, the sleepless nights. It has been a long while, but I had 2 our of three that didn't believe in sleeping. Freddie isn't that bad. You'll learn to work around him and your daughter's schedule. Enjoy them while you can. My youngest is 26 and I can't believe it has been that long since he'd wake up at 3 AM and be good to go for the day.
Re: Oscar Wilde And The Dead Man's Smile (10:50pm September 22, 2009):
I work at a small county library. We have many patrons who like mysteries and I am always looking for new series to get for them. This one just might fill the bill. I'll have to get the first one, read it and have a few of the patrons try it. I've started many new to us series that way. Good luck with the books, they sound great.
Re: A Christmas Ball (1:00am September 22, 2009):
4. Fondest Christmas memory - The way we celebrated Christmas when I was a child. My Mother's family would all attend midnight mass together then go to my grandparents house for breakfast afterwards. Since my mom had 8 brothers and sisters and they all had 3 to 6 children, it was a great crowd. We would then go home and open our presents or sometimes wait until we got a little sleep first. On Christmas Day, we went to my Father's parents' house for Christmas dinner. My grandparents' house wasn't very big, but we managed to fit the 16 family members in. It was a lovely day and presents weren't the focus. The families were just too large to get gifts for everyone. We gave our grandparents gifts and our immediate family, but that was all. No one felt left out or cheated. Now all the families are scattered around the country and the grandparents as well as our parents are gone. Sadly there is no way to carry out that tradition anymore.
Re: What I Did For Love (9:07pm September 19, 2009):
No real rituals here. I read whenever and where ever I can. I have a book open at all meals. I read while we watch TV, unless it is something I don't want to miss, then I only read during commercials. I rarely get a chance to just sit back and do nothing but read unless it is late at night. Then I may end up reading until 2 or 3 in the morning and still have to get up for work in the morning. But it has to be a really good book for that to happen.
Re: Audrey's Door (7:19pm September 18, 2009):
Adults that try to over protect children are doing them no favors. We don't have to expose them to really awful things, but they should be aware that bad things do happen and be taught how to protect themselves. Teens tend to have a jaded view of things . They know the world isn't perfect and want to explore the possibilities. Too many adults have a tendency to put their head in the sand. Bad things won't go away if we ignore them.
Re: I Can Make You Love Me (12:31pm September 18, 2009):
Know of one case where a mother lost custody because she was a drug user and had her boyfriends with her while her 3 year old was in the room. The father petitioned to have her parental rights terminated and he won. The little girl was adopted by his older brother (the father was young). She was in a healthy family and happy. About 3 years later, the mother petitioned the court in another state to regain custody of her daughter. The old judge went by the outdated thought that a child belongs with the mother and reversed the earlier ruling over objections of the father, adoptive parents, and the doctor. The father, not wanting her to be subjected to the open sex, drug use and neglect, took her from his brothers house and disappeared until she was 18. Every once in a while he would call a family member to let everyone know they were OK. It was a heartbreaking situation and I still am not sure what the right course of action should have been. Everyone lost so much.
Re: Beast Warrior (12:00pm September 17, 2009):
What an interesting lesson on wolves and werewolves. Unfortunately, the wolf is still misunderstood and under attack. Our environment needs the predators to remain healthy.
Re: Treasure Of The Golden Cheetah (12:08pm September 9, 2009):
As in many of the examples you gave, people doing what needed to be done is what made them special. Being recognized for it made them larger than life. Live your life to the fullest, that will qualify you.
Re: Table Manners (1:54am September 8, 2009):
I'll be working in the yard. There is so much I haven't had time to do. Have started The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker and am loving it.
Re: Tears Of Pearl (11:22pm September 2, 2009):
Excellent post. There is so much out there to read and explore. I traveled alone while in the Peace Corps and on my trip home from my assignment. That was cut short after only 10 days. I managed Singapore, Indonesia and Bali before getting word my mother was dying. I had planned a 3 month trip (the length of time my passport was good) through Southeast Asia, India. and the Middle East. Hope to get there some day. Traveling on a shoe string like I was, I was very much on the economy. I stayed in $2 a night local establishments and ate at street vendors and local cafes. Traveling alone does have its draw backs and there were a few times I was concerned. However, in my three years in the PC and on my short trip, it was a great experience. You always run into others traveling like you are and you usually are not completely alone. I can relate to these ladies and do see how they could do what they did. People were always willing to share their country and culture with those who were truly interested. I will definitely bee looking for this series. I don't think our library has them, but since I do some of the ordering, I can take care of that, once we get some more book money. We are a very poorly funded library (less than one tenth the average national per capita funding).
Re: The Sari Shop Widow (11:26pm September 1, 2009):
Cultural traits add a wonderful dimension to a story. The same situation will play out very differently depending on the backgrounds of those involved. Good luck with your books. More power to you for starting writing at an "older age", and doing such a good job of it.
Re: Within Striking Distance (10:03pm August 31, 2009):
Cute and all too true. I'm not an author, but since discovering author sites on the web (for my job of course, I work at a library), I am suffering the same symptoms. I don't get much time at work to check out the sites, so every evening, here I sit for hours. I used to sit for hours in the evening reading. Now my TBR pile is growing and I'm trying to figure out how to read more and visit more sites. Who needs sleep?
Re: Red Hot Lies (8:59pm August 30, 2009):
In all honesty, I don't pay any attention to whether or not a book is written in first person. If a book is good it is good. I just did some checking and I think Daphne du Maurier's REBECCA is written in first person. It is one of my favorite books. It may be a little dated but still good. I just realized the book I am reading now is in first person. It is WOULD-BE WITCH by Kimberly Frost. It is a fun read and I'm enjoying it.
Re: Dragons Prefer Blondes (12:11pm August 29, 2009):
It is always interesting listening to authors talk about their craft and their books. Their approaches vary as do their thought processes. Often they reveal interesting details about the reason for a particular story or writing in a particular genre. People are interesting and authors are really interesting.
Re: Haunting Beauty (11:47am August 29, 2009):
The one thing I would change would be moving to where we are now. It is a nice area and the people are friendly, but our son has never fit in. He was in 4th grade when we moved here and was not accepted in the school. At such a formative time in his life, it made a difference and not for the best. He is 26 now and still a lost soul.
Re: The Treasures Of Venice (11:10pm August 27, 2009):
September has always been my favorite month. For some reason, I remember and celebrate our engagement, Sept. 25, as much or more than our wedding anniversary. I think I celebrate the season more so than a special day. In spring, I look forward to that time when the fields and trees are a wide range of fresh bright greens. In September, It is just the cool briskness, the smell of the leaves, the turning of the leaves, and bushels of apples. It is the perfect time to celebrate just being alive!
Re: Feels Like The First Time (8:44pm August 26, 2009):
The first costume that came to mind was Mother Goose. It was my nick name in High School, I always seemed to have a trail of little kids during activities. I'm now a children's librarian. I made a costume and just recently got the wig. Might wear it for Halloween at the library this year.
Re: Air Time (8:20pm August 26, 2009):
Congratulations on your new release. I'm sure it will do well. I met my husband in high school chemistry class. I'm sure I had other classes with him, but that is the only one I remember. He moved the end of that year and we wrote a few times every year. We were just friends (I was one of the guys and wrote to several of the guys who moved - their dads were stationed at the nearby Air Force base). After college, I went into the Peace Corps for 3 years and he joined the AF. When I came back to the States , I stopped at a base in CA to visit a cousin and recover from jet lag before heading home to NY. He was at that base and we met for dinner with my cousin and her husband. I returned to the Philippines to finish my Peace Corps stint. He showed up for the town fiesta 5 months later and asked me to marry him. We had never dated and only seen each other 5 times in 7 years. I couldn't think of a good reason to say no, so when I got back to the States, I said yes and we got married about 9 months later (a six month tour in Viet Nam got in the way). It was a good choice, we celebrated our 37th anniversary this past June, have three great children and a wonderful grandson. We were friends first and I think that is very important for marriage. Being "in love" but not friends isn't as sound a basis for a lasting marriage.
Re: In the Master's Bed (11:57pm August 24, 2009):
First of all, congratulations on your new book. I always had mixed feelings about back to school. As a student, I looked forward to it. As a parent I did too, but was sad to see those carefree days with the kids end. I enjoyed having them around.
Re: The Fixer Upper (11:19pm August 23, 2009):
I work at a library and there are still a lot of people out there who think romance works are "empty calories". Unfortunately a goodly number of those are my fellow employees. I am the only one who admits to reading romance. The other's claim they like suspense or something more literate. Most of what they read still falls in a romance category, but they don't realize it. My daughters gave me a hard time for a while about the romances I read. My son just rolls his eyes. I get books on CD and my DH and I both listen to them (we take turns since he drives more than I do). I've given him historical romance and romantic suspense. He was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the writing. I don't just read romance. I read and listen to everything except erotica and horror. We just finished Ken Follett's PILLARS OF THE EARTH and WORLD WITHOUT END (both fantastic!) and now he is listening to one by Brad Meltzer and I'm listening to RUMOR HAS IT by Tami Hoag. I'll listen to Meltzer's but Hoag's is a straight chic lit romance and I know my DH won't care for it. Yes some of it is escapism, but we all need that once in a while. Look at what people are watching on TV.
Re: Gordath Wood (10:25pm August 22, 2009):
You are not alone. I could substitute myself in your piece, except for reading at stop lights - there aren't any on my way to work. Besides I always have a book on tape going in my car. However, if I'm not the one driving, I'm reading. I eat with a book open. I cook with a book open. As far as having the characters invading my life, glad I'm not the only nut. While I'm reading the book, I'm thinking about it and the characters. When I'm done with it, they live on in continuing adventures. With really good books, I don't want to let them go. These two series sound very interesting. Who needs sleep anyway?
Re: Skykeepers (2:03am August 22, 2009):
I bought NIGHTKEEPERS and SKYKEEPERS tonight. Unfortunately the store I went to was out of DAWNKEEPERS. Can't wait to start this series. Will have to wait to see who I'd cast.
Re: To Tempt The Wolf (11:15pm August 20, 2009):
Good luck with your new book. What would I write? I like the beauty and the beast format. I think I'd write the story the reverse of what we usually get. The woman would be the beast and the man the beauty. I'd like to see how it would play out.
Re: Devil In My Bed (12:11pm August 20, 2009):
Fatherhood is so different for each man. The common thread of a good father is his truly caring for the child and his or her future. Your trilogy sounds delightful. I like the books I read to have a sense of humor.
Re: Tortured (10:42pm August 18, 2009):
Have seen many posts and heard many good things about this book. It is on my to buy list and I hope to get to it soon. The Dark Ages were a time (like too many others) when you did what you had to do to survive and prayed it would work. Congratulations on what sounds like a great read!
Re: Beloved Vampire (11:55pm August 17, 2009):
Vampires are very much the thing right now. I work at a small library and have requests for more series all the time. Haven't seen yours yet, but will have to check it out. Since the Anita Blake series is popular, yours should be also.
Re: Smash Cut (1:25am August 16, 2009):
I'm a re-reader, but it is hard. Haven't done it in a while because my TBR pile has gotten so large. Sometimes when I go back to favorite books, I'll read just the scenes I really liked. One good reason to re-read a good book: when a book really grabs us, we read through it in a day or too (if we are lucky and don't need sleep). I've found the second time I read a book I love, I pick up details I missed the first time in my rush to find out what happened. The book ends up being better the second time around. I'll also read a book, then listen to it in audio form. That often adds a different dimension to it. I enjoyed Nora Roberts' CIRCLE TRILOGY when I read it. The book on CD is excellently done and I enjoyed the books more listening to them.
Re: Red Seas Under Red Skies (11:52pm August 15, 2009):
Haven't heard of any "cons" in our area. However RWA will be 5 hours away next year. It is really tempting to clear my schedule, make reservations and sign up as a volunteer. My husband says "go for it" and I just might. I work at a library, it could be a job related trip.
Re: Trust Me (12:17pm August 15, 2009):
Had to laugh. Your blog is that of a parent. Did I do this enough? Should I have given the child a better name? I should have spent more time with him/her. I should have made sure they took piano lessons. Will the others like him/her? Are they ready for the cold, cruel world? Have that shot. What's done is done. Your baby is going to have to stand on his own two feet!
Re: Breaking Loose (10:48pm August 13, 2009):
I like romances because they afford escape from our humdrum lives. We can't go back in time and be with those highlanders, knights, pirates, cowboys, or whatever. We can't chase criminals or deal with vampires and shape shifters. We can certainly enjoy being there vicariously and get to meet wonderful characters while we're there. So to all you romance writers, thank you and keep up the good work!
Re: Whispers of the Dead (11:46pm August 12, 2009):
There are worse places to have your picture taken. We once rented a house out in the country directly across the street from a cemetery. We got a lot of smart remarks and dire warnings. An elderly relative had the best comment. "They'll be the quietest neighbors you'll ever have." They really were.
Re: Bad Moon Rising (11:13pm August 11, 2009):
Have had a few books signed, but all have been by local or regional authors. The advantage is you get time to visit and don't have to fight a crowd. I guess Cameron Judd, who is local, is the biggest author I've had sign books. We did have Joan Medlicott visit our library and she signed a few of the books on the shelf.
Re: The Perfect Couple (11:07pm August 11, 2009):
I am looking for The rest of Brenda's books this week to fill in our library's collection. I think it is a shame when an author has done well for a company that they are dropped. I understand the economic forces involved, but a successful track record should count for something.
Re: Since the Surrender (10:49pm August 11, 2009):
Wonderful excerpt. Sounds like an enjoyable book. Historicals are my preference.
Re: Chosen To Die (10:03pm August 11, 2009):
Your books are full of suspense and well written. I've introduced them to the patrons of our library and they have enjoyed them. Look forward to reading your new one.
Re: Nothing But Scandal (10:30pm August 10, 2009):
I sometimes identify with the heroine or another character. I remember the characters in a book I like, male or female, hero, heroine, or villain.
Re: It Happened One Night (1:00am August 1, 2009):
Our son's puppy was too smart for her own good. She is a 7 month old pit bull and as sweet as can be. Unfortunately, she can open our storm doors. About 3 weeks ago, she got out while I was getting ready for work and was hit by a car. A woman came up and said she had called our vet and they were sending someone out to pick her up. It was animal control that came for her. It was obvious that her back was seriously injured and I asked him if he had a board or blanket so we could move her carefully. He said the damage was done and picked her up by the scruff of the neck and threw her into the back of the truck saying it was going to hurt. He got to the vet before I did and never told them she had an injured back. (sorry, I'm still very angry at how callous he was.) She was paralyzed and I was going to have her put down. My husband called our son at work and we decided it was his decision. He took her home and spent a rough few days nursing her. It just broke my heart. However, she has just amazed us all. She asked to go out early on, so we knew those nerves still worked. She started wagging her tail and pulling herself around. Our son made a wheelchair thing for her, but hopefully she won't need it. She is now standing and in the last day or so, you can see her muscles twitching in her right rear leg. She may not regain full use of her legs, but she is making amazing progress. Today she even managed to make it up a few stairs. It hasn't slowed her down much. She is as stubborn as our son. It has been an experience watching her progress. I don't think the vet is going to believe it. With a broken leg and a crushed vertebra it didn't look good. I am so glad the decision was my son's and that things are working out so well.
Re: Red, White & Dead (10:18pm July 30, 2009):
You really had to work to get those books out together. Why not write yourself into a character. Who else do you know better plus don't have to worry about complaining?
Re: Seduce Me (12:30pm July 30, 2009):
I agree with some of the other commenters, too many authors are throwing sex scenes into their books and leaving out the romance. I read a mystery a few month ago, and the main characters were at it by chapter three and they had just met. Sorry, there is no romance in that. Not only do the heroine and hero have to seduce each other, the author must seduce the reader into the story and the relationship. Some authors are forgetting that. The twelve steps you listed are very good. Some authors are barely getting past #2 before they hit #12. You make some very good points. Seduce Me should be very good.
Re: Face Time (11:09pm July 28, 2009):
It is hard not to be a mother to your kids, and even harder to keep a good balance. I've learned to keep my opinions to myself, most of the time. I try to be there for them when they need me, but to wait until they want my advice or help. I remember the rough years when I was a teen - I was much too outspoken for my parents. However, by the time I finished college, my mom and I were friends. I went overseas in the Peace Corps for 3 years right after graduation. I was so looking forward to the adult mother/daughter relationship. On my trip home, I got word my mom was dying. She died of cancer barely 3 weeks after I got home. That was 38 years ago and everyday I miss not being able to share things with her.
Re: Seeing Red (11:20pm July 27, 2009):
There is nothing like small town living. We have always lived just outside town. The town we live near now has 3 festivals a year that are a lot of fun. From May thru September, they have free music concerts on Main Street. Hundreds of people set up their chairs, bring picnic suppers, and enjoy the music and visiting with friends.
Re: Mackenzie's Legacy (9:47pm July 26, 2009):
Julie Garwood was the first romance writer I read. She has several historical books that are related. It would be interesting to see how the families fared and how the children of those unions grew and what their stories were. the history of those time periods would have effected them so very much.
Re: The Plight Of The Darcy Brothers (10:47pm July 24, 2009):
Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorite books. Jane Austen gives such a feel for the time period in her books. As you said, there was little women could do during that time other than looking for a husband then keeping the home fires burning one she got one. I'll have to think about the characters and who I'd like to see more of. Both your books sound delightful. When you love a book and the characters, you hate to see their story end. Four of the six of us who work at our small library are Jane Austen fans. I would love to win these books and share them. I hope you continue this series.
Re: The Diva Takes The Cake (10:33pm July 23, 2009):
Checked out the "Mystery Lover's Kitchen" site. Very nice. Looks like I will be getting lots of good ideas there. Your series sounds like fun. The covers are lovely. Mysteries with hints and recipes are very popular right now. Your books will be a nice addition.
Re: Waking Nightmare (10:29pm July 22, 2009):
When I have a bad day, I think about retiring. I have no benefits, so retire sort of means quit. I really like my job (children's librarian) but I plan programs and no one shows up. We have all tried everything we can think of to improve attendance, but so far no luck. I would really like to stay home and get this mess of a house straightened and work in my garden. We've been renovating since 1992 and have been moving boxes and furniture around forever. You kind of get used to the mess. If I stopped working, though, I would really miss the kids.
Re: Divorced, Desperate and Deceived (10:31pm July 21, 2009):
I love it! Someone else has days no one really believes. As you well know, some of this stuff you wouldn't make up because people would accuse you of going too far. We had a three day run once that involved a bear attacking our son in TN, us in CO spending 1 1/2 hours on the phone with officials in TN, getting into the Knoxville, TN airport at midnight about 20 minutes after the Florida Gators beat UT. Not bad unless you happen to be the only one on the plane wearing a Gator shirt with everyone else in UT orange. Then there was the cow stuck on our porch at 4 the next morning. Your books sound like fun. Need to keep one on hand for the next crisis.
Re: Bending The Rules (10:36pm July 20, 2009):
Afraid we are "sisters" in the way we handle things. The best come backs are always thought of too late. Depending on how tired I am, I can keep from getting weepy. Then again sometimes not. Writing is actually a great way to deal with this. As you said, there is always the delete key and you can put that great retort in hours later.
Re: Black Hills (9:45pm July 19, 2009):
You gals are having way too much fun. I so wish I was there. I want a Peaches too. She is so cute.
Re: Swimsuit (11:07pm July 17, 2009):
We never know when we meet someone, what the future will hold for us. Who would have guessed when you interviewed him so many years ago that he would achieve the writing success he has and you would be his co-writer. I love your little story about your tombstone. It is nice that you are doing what you like and being successful at it. That you are happy and enjoying it is a bonus.
Re: Bluegrass Blessings (11:17pm July 16, 2009):
Laughing and crying are both good. There has to be good plot and character development. The story has to mean something to me and cause me to care about the characters.
Re: Earth Guys Are Easy (11:31pm July 15, 2009):
TIME IN A BOTTLE is a favorite. It just says so much about the way you feel about the one you truly love. Congratulations on how well EARTH GUYS ARE EASY has done. Am glad you are enjoying your veggies. We forgot to put in yellow squash this year. Wait until your tomatoes come in. Boil them down and make sauce, then freeze. We always have more than we can deal with. Congratulations on the weight loss. Keep up the good work.
Re: In The Garden Of Sin (9:43pm July 14, 2009):
Amazing what people seriously believed in the not so distant past. Some if it makes you wonder. And on dark and stormy nights, you are not so sure they weren't right.
Re: By Hook Or By Crook (9:28pm July 14, 2009):
Book series with a common theme are very popular at our library. Most have had menus and recipes as part of the work. With the interest in needle work, this series should do well, and a little murder doesn't hurt.
Re: Mr. Perfect (11:12pm July 12, 2009):
Back again. I'm in the middle of Harry Potter week at my library and should have mentioned that series. All the Harry Potter books have been very good. They lived up to they hype and then some.
Re: Mr. Perfect (11:09pm July 12, 2009):
I read books that appeal to me. Sometimes the reviews, etc. will point me in the direction of a book, but I have discovered the hype or even the reputation of an author doesn't mean it will be a good book. The last book I picked up because of the reviews was Ken Follett's Pillars of the Earth and it's sequel World Without End. They were both better than I expected.
Re: The Beach House (10:49pm July 11, 2009):
Enjoy your RWA trip. I am so jealous. Jane Green sounds like a wonderful person. How wonderful for your daughter. As difficult as it is to get into college, anything that helps is welcome. Good luck to her in school.
Re: Art Of Sensuality (11:16pm July 10, 2009):
I so wish I could be attending the RWA Conference in DC. It is only 7 hours away. I work as a children's librarian in a small county library and this is not the time of year to take off. One day I'll get there. ENJOY!
Re: Object of Desire (9:28pm July 9, 2009):
Sounds like a good summer read. Now all I need is the time to do some reading. There is nothing like a challenge and a little bit of danger to put a little extra spark into a relationship. Sounds like you did a good job of including a lot oft\ that in this story. Good luck with the release.
Re: Dragons Prefer Blondes (10:19pm July 8, 2009):
It would probably be Superman. I have always wanted to fly. Had a crush on Peter Pan when I was a kid.
Re: Greedy Bones (10:57pm July 7, 2009):
Many authors have mentioned that their long term characters, locale seem to take on a life of their own.. Characters seem to dictate their stories. Hopefully, yours will continue to take you, and us, through their world.
Re: Loving a Lost Lord (11:35pm July 6, 2009):
Your stories hit just the right notes for me. Historicals allow you to, as you say, go over the top with certain plot elements. Modern communication and speed of travel, really spoil a lot of plot possibilities. Keep up the wonderful writing. A touch of magic, danger, romance and mischief make your books a delight.
Re: The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society (3:39pm July 5, 2009):
Don't feel bad, I work at a library and help do the ordering and I had never heard of THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO OEEL PIE SOCIETY. Admittedly I deal primarily with children's books, but I do some of the adult ordering. The Laurell K. Hamilton's Merry Gentry Fey series didn't do it for me. There is a good story line there, but I need more in a book than everyone running around with no clothes on, having multiple partner sex, occasionally being interrupted to fight the bad guys.
Re: Wild Heart (10:11pm July 4, 2009):
Those of us who do not write have no idea what goes on in the process to get a book published. Thanks for the insight.
Re: Everywhere She Turns (12:43pm July 4, 2009):
Intrigues are my favorite Harlequin series. I have quite a few of yours. I have been following The Colby Agency stories for years. I know they will always be good. We aren't really cutting back a lot. It is always the small businesses that get hurt and they can least afford it. We continue to patronize the businesses we always have. We have two reunions this year - our 45th High School reunion in August in Upstate New York (we haven't had one since our 15th) and an Air Force unit reunion in Ft. Worth, TX in October. They are both going to be more expensive than I would like, but they are important to us. We'll just have to economize on the trip best we can and hope gas doesn't go out of sight. The one advantage of our taking vacation time is our daughter gets to work more. She and my husband are part time clerks at the same post office. When we are gone, she gets more hours. She is young and has a family and can certainly use the extra money.
Re: Love At First Flight (12:08pm July 4, 2009):
It is refreshing to have a nice guy hero. The macho man bit has gotten a bit tiring. It is much better to find out your intended is not the right one before the wedding than after. Good luck with the book.
Re: Billionaire Prince, Pregnant Mistress (11:41pm July 2, 2009):
You are right. After a long day, a nice relaxing read is just what I need. Sometimes I want suspense, sometimes a little magic, and sometimes a bit of romance. Books are such great friends!
Re: A Stroke of Magic (9:31pm July 1, 2009):
Quirks give a person the personality and character. Some can be annoying - no matter what topic comes up, my son-in-law know all about it (usually not). some are endearing - one of my co-workers likes to buy little gifts for no reason.
Re: Happiness Key (10:45pm June 30, 2009):
The creative process - it can be surprising how it works. Never seems to be the same from author to author, and sometimes for the same author. Sounds like a good summer read.
Re: Loving a Lost Lord (11:30pm June 27, 2009):
I try to just immerse myself in the story, but like you I start thinking afterwards. There are just so many plot lines out there and just so much you can do with them, so there are bound to be moments of de ja vous. There is one really well known author who was my first romance author and still my favorite. One thing I noticed early on was she has the same 3 sex scenes in each of her books. The names and the place are different but that is all. I haven't had time to read her last couple of books, so I don't know if that is still the case. It really isn't a problem, just funny.
Re: Redemption (10:07pm June 26, 2009):
Congratulations on your books. We can't always follow the path we would like, but that doesn't mean the one we have to take will be so bad. I'm sure you will get the chance to explore those other books in time.
Re: The Scot And I (9:28pm June 25, 2009):
Your changing genres gradually probably was the best way to do it. Most fans can handle gradual change, but a big shift may be a bit more than they can take. If you wanted to, you could do what many authors have done and write in several genres (either under one name or several). I enjoy historicals with suspense and adding a touch of the paranormal is great. I will be looking for your books.
Re: The Best Of Everything (11:09pm June 24, 2009):
When we got married, my husband handed me the checkbook and 37 years later I still have it. He was in the Air Force and being sent overseas. He couldn't take care of the bills, so it was my job. I manage the finances, but it is really a joint affair. I know what we have and what we can afford. Neither of us makes any large purchases without consulting the other unless it is an emergency. Except I bought a house before he saw it. It was an emergency, kind of, sort of, well he did like it. Finances damage more marriages than a lot of other things. Your advice is very good. I hope it gets out there and people follow them. I'm making a copy for one of our patrons who is getting married soon.
Re: Seducing an Angel (11:17pm June 23, 2009):
Very good piece. Nice explanation of the differences between romance and love. Romance can be there, you can enjoy it and appreciate it, but it won't necessarily lead to love. A loving relationship will survive the occasional lack of romance because it goes much deeper. Have enjoyed your books and recommend them to our library patrons when they are looking for good "romance" books. I know they will get more than they expected.
Re: Pulling The Trigger (12:16pm June 23, 2009):
Intrigue is my favorite Harlequin line. The current blue cover with the fingerprints is my preference. Your Kansas City Finest series is one of my favorites. The Colby Agency books were good. Read the Thurlos. Always pick up a Debra Webb book. Have read a few of the 43 Light Street books. It is too late to think, I can think of stories, but not the title or authors. Let us just say, I haven't met an Intrigue I haven't liked.
Re: A Thread Of Truth (11:17pm June 21, 2009):
Rarely do I not finish a book I start. I have noticed lately that there are a lot more typos, misspellings, and grammatical errors. One book I read was so bad I took a red pen to it each time I read it. Very annoying. Poor story flow is another story. I'll still read the book, but not enjoy it as much. I might not pick up another book by that author. One thing I've noticed lately is authors falling down at the end. Several books have been suspenseful, good character development, and good plot. They author brings the story through the climax of the plot and then falls flat. It is almost like they finished the big chase scene and lost interest in finishing the story. It sort of spoils the whole story.
Re: The Dragon Earl (10:48pm June 21, 2009):
What a wonderful event. I would be in heaven. I love history which is one of the reasons I read historical romance. It is much more enjoyable learning about the smuggling problem along the English Coast by reading a romance than by listening to a dry lecture from a grouchy old man. I am going to check their website and see what the event is like. Would love to attend in England. Of course, I'm not a writer, but would love to sit there and listen.
Re: Queen Takes King (10:39pm June 21, 2009):
The Historical Society Conference looks like it was terrific. Something I could enjoy. Kind of scary that Gigi wrote the book before it happened. Shame on them for not having cake at the signing.
Re: Dial Emmy For Murder (11:07pm June 20, 2009):
I can't imagine co-writing a book that way. I know of several writing teams, but most are married couples. Long distance with someone with a different "voice" seems difficult, especially when your writing process and style are so different. The differences I'm sure lend a special flavor to the book.
Re: Bought (11:59pm June 19, 2009):
It's fiction folks. Of course, as you said, there are people that do use real people and situations in their writing. It would be easy to see and use a character trait in someone you know. But to make that person your character doesn't seem fair.
Re: Jump (12:00pm June 19, 2009):
I agree whole heartedly. If there are not good characters that we care about, no matter how much action you put in there, it isn't going to work. Loved Agatha Christie. She had wonderful characters and was great at plot development and suspense. JUMP sounds quirky and good.
Re: Last Resort: Marriage (11:29pm June 17, 2009):
All of Julie Garwood's books are on my keeper shelf. She has strong heroes and spunky ladies that give them a run for their money. The Wolf and The Dove by Woodiwiss is also a favorite. I guess I like strong women caught in bad situations who manage to survive and eventually conquer. The hero is often as much a victim of circumstance as the heroine and not always very much of a good guy.
Re: Beyond The Code Of Conduct (10:39pm June 16, 2009):
I agree fully. My husband has little time for reading. I have been bringing books on tape/CD home and sharing them with my husband for several years. I read just about everything. I started passing along books by Lisa Gardner, Sandra Brown, Julie Garwood, and Nora Roberts. He has enjoyed them all. However, he did ask me to warn him about sex scenes after he nearly drove off the road on his way home from work. Men just don't multi-task well.
Re: From Friend To Father (11:55pm June 15, 2009):
I read romances to relax, see a relationship grow, and yes the happily ever after. There are also a lot of excellent authors out there doing romantic suspense. I work at a county library and there are lots of romance readers. Some of the men have made snide comments about the romance books. Although I don't think any have used the word trash, it has been implied. Since a lot of these men read the little serial westerns, I decided to read one and compare their merits. It was good for a laugh. Relationship? What's that. Tall, dark, quiet, handsome cowboy rides into town. Goes directly to saloon. All eyes on him as he enters. Lovely lady "with a great pair of melons" (I choked) hits on him and they head upstairs for a good time. Not bad for 30 minutes in town. Bad guys abusing women. Outlaw compound outside of town. Local lawman is worthless. Hero rides out to single handedly defeat 15 or so bad guys and rescue women and children. He is captured, beaten and staked out. Beaten to a pulp, tied hand and foot, our hero gets free and takes out all the bad guys. Return to town a hero. Ride out of town with Miss Melons fondly watching him go wishing for one more great time in the sack. PLEASE!!! Those guys should know trash, they are reading it! This is not to say all westerns are trash because they are not. I read them too. But the male equivalent to the Harlequins in both action and western series generally have plots that equate to meaningless sex and lots of violence. There may be a plot thrown in, but it is weak. I usually recommend a good book written by a romance author that is in the genre they usually read. They usually really enjoy them. I've give my husband lots of audio books (he doesn't have much time to read and is his car a lot) and he has enjoyed most of them. He has asked me to warn him if there are any really sexy sce
Re: Final Approach (1:16am June 9, 2009):
Guilty big time for number 1. My husband will wake up at 2 or 3 and inform me I do have to go to work in the morning. 3 and 4 become one with the book and the characters. Yeah dumb but hard not to. 5-Don't have embarrass myself. I work in a library so we talk books all day. Yeah! 6- As long as I have a book, who cares how long I have to wait. 8-Sometimes I cast characters, but not too often. I was so upset with Tom Hanks being cast for The Da Vinci Code. Good actor, didn't fit the books description. 9-Yes I relate. 10-Just finished PILLARS OF THE EARTH. thought about the book and characters constantly while reading the book. It had a very good last line, but I didn't want it to end. I've started the sequel WORLD WITHOUT END and was initially upset because it was 200 years later and my friends weren't there.
Re: On Wings of the Morning (11:16pm June 7, 2009):
If all the book stores closed, I'd still have enough books to last me for the next co years or so. Am glad to hear I'm not the only one with "storage books". I'm trying not to save so many, but it is hard. I love old books and have a lot of them. I have 29 book cases full to overflowing and probably 40 boxes to sort through. I can't keep them all but don't want to get rid of any. There really isn't any more room for more bookshelves. My poor husband has run out of room to build any more. No more additions to the house either. I work at a library and that doesn't help. I just keep finding more authors I like.
Re: The Red Pony (11:00pm June 7, 2009):
Read THE OUTSIDERS. Not sure why, but never remember having to read many of the classics. Did read BRAVE NEW WORLD and 1984. Started WAR AND PEACE at least 4 times and never could get past page 100 or so.
Re: The Promise (11:42pm June 5, 2009):
Have been signed up for IMHO for a month or so now. Also on your website. Love historicals and yours are a nice change of pace . You can't let Peter languish in no man's land. I'm looking forward to your "fairy tale."
Re: How To Seduce A Texan (9:16pm June 4, 2009):
Humor is good. There certainly isn't enough of it in life. I love books that make you laugh. I feel like an idiot sitting by myself at 2 AM reading, unable to stop laughing. I've woken my husband a time or two. He just stands there, shakes his head, and goes back to bed. Laughter is good for the soul and for your health. If you think of it that way, you are doing a public service.
Re: The Baby Bond (11:07pm June 3, 2009):
What a wonderful event. Would love to go, but don't see it happening any time soon. I work in a small library. Wish I could convince them this would be a worth while expense. Won't happen, we don't have enough money for books. Am glad you enjoyed it. Good luck with your next book. I might see you at one of the future BEAs.
Re: Lucky Streak (10:39pm June 2, 2009):
He sounds much more forgiving than I would be if conned in a similar manner.
Re: Lip Service (11:22pm June 1, 2009):
Travel, Travel, Travel. I'd love to be able to spend 3 months or so in Ireland, Scotland and England. Then do the same in Southeast Asia. Then Greece, Turkey and vicinity. My first wish though would be to get my house squared away. We bought a victorian farm house in 1992. It needed to be gutted and redone plus we needed to repair the damage the previous owners had done in their hatchet job of remodeling/addition. Can't believe someone could make such a mess in less than a year. We are almost done, but it is taking forever and we are tired of fighting the mess. Our biggest problem is we (I) have too much stuff and I don't want to part with much of it. We have done most of the work ourselves and lived in the house the whole time. I love it, but want time to enjoy it. Last but not least, I like to be a writer. At the moment, I don't have the time and probably not the talent. But hey, these are wishes, so it counts.
Re: Believe (11:58pm May 31, 2009):
Love anthologies and prefer the ones with shorter stories. I actually prefer those with a variety of authors and centered on a single topic. I keep one in my car for those times I have to sit around and wait. Want something I can finish in a short time. Don't want to start a longer book I may not get back to any time soon. Just picked up an old favorite today.
Re: A Thread Of Truth (10:41pm May 29, 2009):
I'll have to check out these books. I work in a small county library and these sound like the type of books our ladies would like to read. It is so hard to keep up with everything that comes out. I love finding books I know our patrons will enjoy. Even better if they are right for our older patrons and are available in large print.
Re: Beneath Bone Lake (12:11pm May 29, 2009):
Spiders. Can't deal with them. I am getting better. I'm allergic to spider bites, so that is my excuse. Snakes are no problem - I like them (have a ball python and take it to classrooms). I did have to call a truce with spiders while I was in the Peace Corps. They were just too big to smash. In three years I only killed one. It was in the middle of the door to my room and wouldn't let me out. An aggressive poisonous one, it had its front legs raised and its fangs displayed. Smacked it good. The mosquito netting was really more to keep spiders from crawling into bed with me at night. I'd wake up in the morning and there would be one at eye level on the wall.
Re: Master Of Craving (11:55pm May 27, 2009):
Romance is still selling well. Your sword series sounds good. I'll have to look for it.
Re: A Little Light Magic (11:12pm May 26, 2009):
There is a lot to be said about birth order. I am the oldest of 6 and have 3 children. My husband is also an oldest - of 2. I tried not to have the birth order thing happen with our children, but no luck. My poor oldest one is way too much like her parents. Your book will be a big hit, I'm sure. Good luck and keep those good stories coming!
Re: The Accidental Lawman (6:19pm May 25, 2009):
First a question - do your books come in large print? We have a large group of readers at our library who love this type of story. Many however need large print. Too often I end up with the first book in a series in paperback or regular print then find the later books in large print. Then I'm in trouble because they all want to read the other books in the series. Sounds like an enjoyable read with a bit of a sense of humor - both high on my list of books to get.
Re: My Forbidden Desire (5:50pm May 25, 2009):
Never worried about it. I'm the one reading and enjoying the story. You, the writer, are the one stuck with figuring it out. Or , just write around the subject - no stories with pregnant or newborn werewolves. Avoidance being one policy. Then again, it is your story do with it what you will. Each author treats the paranormal lore in a slightly different manner.
Re: The Warrior (9:06pm May 24, 2009):
I do both. I plan when I can. Our son-in-law had surgery scheduled at Duke and we were going down for the week. Guess what - Fiddler On The Roof with Topol was in town. No question, we were going. Good thing we didn't buy tickets. Got half way there when our daughter called, in tears, to tell us the operation was postponed for a week. Rats! Selfish, I know, but I so wanted to go and it won't be showing anywhere else close. I plan what to do and get most of the time. However, I never pass up a good deal if one comes along. So far we haven't gone overboard and done something we can't afford.
Re: Dragons Prefer Blondes (12:00pm May 24, 2009):
I'm actually a little of both. There are some books I really should read for work- I work in a small county library in the children's section, but am also the only employee who will admit to reading romance. I read the kid's and YA stuff - and like it. Like the romance too and sample authors I don't yet know. That being said, I will sometimes walk by one of my many stacks, boxes, or shelves of books and grab one that fits the mood of the day to just sit down and read. No lists, just a feeling I really need to read this book before I put it on the shelf or see the movie (have not yet finished ANGELS AND DEMONS or even started HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE. And now I'm spending too much time on the computer to get much reading done!
Re: Saved By The Monarch (12:43pm May 22, 2009):
A day late again. I'm just not getting home from work early enough. Love the Intrigue line. It is my favorite of the Harlequins.
Re: Storm Glass (10:36pm May 21, 2009):
Glad to know emails get through, get read, and are appreciated. Have gotten a few from authors. It is a nice way to ask questions and give comments. Not everything needs to be in a public blog. Writing is a harder job than most people realize. Enjoy it and keep up the good work.
Re: Killer Cuts (11:05pm May 20, 2009):
Good grief! There are so many good books in this list, I truly don't know where to start. Any of them would be great. Thanks for the update on the releases.
Re: Moonburn (11:30pm May 19, 2009):
It sounds to me like it is on the border. I am glad you wrote a follow up. It is nice to end on a happily ever after note, but especially with the characters you are dealing with , that is not likely to be the case. If you like a character, you like to revisit them to see how they are doing.
Re: Kissing The Man Next Door (11:13pm May 18, 2009):
Never had a romance with a neighbor. It seems like the things that could cause real problems if it ended. If you parted as friends, it might be a little uncomfortable as you both move on with your lives and new loves. It it ended poorly, I would think one would have to move. There would be too many things that could cause problems with relationships that followed.
Re: Pretty in Plaid (11:13pm May 17, 2009):
Actually I fall into all three categories. I prefer to be early and sit and read while waiting. If that isn't possible, an on time arrival is a must. Then we all have the days where nothing goes right and late is what we are stuck with.
Re: Mistress (9:15pm May 16, 2009):
When will people learn to take gentle care of books? We have people bring books back after the FIRST checkout and they are destroyed. One boy brought back 2 ruined books - one had the spine broken and ripped and about 20 pages were out. Several people have brought their books in soaking wet. What really gets me is they get put out when you charge them for the damage. We can't afford to buy the book once, let alone replace it. I usually don't have too much trouble following characters, but I remember one book where I had to put everything on paper to keep the characters and their relationships straight. It won't keep me from reading the book, but it does make it less enjoyable.
Re: Taking Flight (1:13am May 16, 2009):
Since I read everything except horror and erotica, I'm always defending my choices to someone. the different genres are not for everyone. There isn't anything wrong with them, they just appeal to different tastes. It all depends what kind of a mood I'm in as to what book I'll decide to read.
Re: The Infamous Rogue (11:14pm May 14, 2009):
The reunion is a good plot line. The ability to revisit the past and try to correct mistakes or do what should have been done gives a story so many possibilities.
Re: A Trace Of Smoke (10:38pm May 13, 2009):
Sounds like an interesting look at a pivotal time in German history. We miss so many threads that come together to make the history we see.
Re: 6 Killer Bodies (10:52pm May 12, 2009):
Good list! We all know what we should do, but doing it is so hard. Your comments on deadlines are so true. Amazing how we get more done the last day or two before something is due than we do the weeks prior. Enjoy your rest.
Re: Let It Ride (12:03pm May 12, 2009):
Watched the two Medium shows tonight. Was afraid it wasn't coming back when they took so long to start it up again. I'll read a bit more and do yard work. I'll also catch up on the shows I didn't watch because they were on opposite my favorite shows.
Re: Dead And Gone (11:14pm May 9, 2009):
Agree with you about the Harry Potter audio books. Dale is wonderful. Another one that worked well was the audio version of Nora Roberts' Morigan's Cross trilogy. I read the books and about a year later listen to the audio version. I actually enjoyed the audio version more. There are a few other that match the characters well. However, in most cases, the movie or audio don't fit my picture of who the characters are. Tom Hanks in The Da Vinci Code just doesn't work. I like him as an actor, but my picture of that character was nowhere near Tom Hanks. I'm just starting Angels and Demons and am curious how his image will intrude into the story.
Re: With a Twist (11:34pm May 8, 2009):
Patience - a hard to nurture virtue. Harder for some than others. Read the With A Twist excerpt. Sounds like fun.
Re: Red Kiss (11:11pm May 7, 2009):
Wonderful excerpt. Am sure the rest of the book will be the same. Have a feeling it will go in a direction I don't expect.
Re: Bunco Babes Tell All (9:28pm May 6, 2009):
Never played and as Dawn said, I remember it being used in police terminology. Sounds interesting and fun. Good luck.
Re: Sea Lord (11:21pm May 5, 2009):
Sorry, kind of a PS. Sea Lord sounds like a really interesting book.
Re: Sea Lord (11:20pm May 5, 2009):
Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite. The variations can be endless. The "Beast" damaged and hurt and the "Beauty" who sees past the facade to the heart and soul underneath. Works if you are a prince or an auto mechanic/a princess or a waitress. Exotic locals and characters are nice, but real is OK too.
Re: Relentless (11:22pm May 4, 2009):
Relentless sounds like an interesting book. I don't usually read futuristic books, but if the story is good and well written the location/time frame don't matter.
Re: Comfort Food (4:30pm May 3, 2009):
Are you kidding. My life sounds like yours. I have one book going at work, 2 at home, and one on CD in my car (Pillars of the Earth - 32 CDs long- at the moment). That is the norm. I work at a small library and do some of the purchasing so my list of books I want to read before they go one the shelf (I wish) is getting longer. Then there are the 3 TBR shelves in the family room not to mention the 16 or so other bookcases in the house and the boxes of books not yet unloaded. Then 2 weeks ago, Harper Collins sent me 5 books to be read and review by May 1. They were YA and junior books, but still took all my reading time. They were really good, so now I have at least 2 more authors to read. By the time I finished, I was suffering withdrawal from my historical fiction. I really should get started on my Spring Cleaning, but I just got Deanna Raybourn's new book, Silent on the Moor, and it is calling my name.
Re: Sunset Bay (10:22pm May 2, 2009):
I am so glad I discovered several author sites and started following them. Comments from authors on the research they do for their stories, their community involvement, and work with other authors has been very interesting. Knowing the research background adds a richness to the story. Haven't met any authors, but that would certainly make me interested in their work.
Re: Fight Fire With Fire (12:21pm May 2, 2009):
Wow! What an excerpt. You really did an excellent job of writing those scenes. Can't wait to read the rest of the book. Nice job!
Re: Wild Heat (11:01pm April 30, 2009):
Hot shots are hard working individuals that risk their lives every time they go out. What better people to use a heroes of romances.
Re: The Madness Of Lord Ian Mackenzie (11:24pm April 29, 2009):
It takes me so long to get to my emails every night. Can't think of any heroes off hand, but I do prefer those that are a bit different. Perfect men don't exist except in fiction and I'd rather have those who are flawed and real.
Re: Enchanting the Beast (11:11pm April 28, 2009):
Never really thought about looking at people that way. Now I'll have a hard time not doing it. My husband would be a bear, our son a puma. The personality doesn't match, but I'd like to be a bird. I'll be looking at my coworkers in a different way tomorrow. Look forward to reading your books.
Re: Heartbreak River (9:12pm April 27, 2009):
Music is a big part of my life. I listen whenever I can. Certain songs bring back memories. Others express things just the right way. Good luck with your books.
Re: Rescue Me (10:22pm April 24, 2009):
Sounds like a series I'll have to look into. The type of stories I like. My wishes seem to take the form of travel. I'd really like to go to....... Have been able to make several of those trips. Now I'm wishing for a trip to Scotland and Ireland. I'll have to start working on making that one come true.
Re: Cleopatra's Perfume (9:48pm April 23, 2009):
An interesting piece of history I wasn't familiar with. Thanks.
Re: The Secret Mistress Arrangement (9:16pm April 22, 2009):
Someone who is understanding and kind (in his own way). Integrity is very important. Strength of character and purpose.
Re: Killer Keepsakes (10:11pm April 21, 2009):
If it works for you, who cares. My idea can come at any time - I never know. Unfortunately, if I don't write it down almost immediately there is a good chance I won't remember when I need it. For 2 days I've thought of something I need to search on the internet. Haven't written it down and when I sit down at the computer , can't for the life of me remember what it is. Look forward to checking out your books.
Re: Take Me Two Times (10:24pm April 20, 2009):
These books sound like a wild ride. You answered most of my questions above. Good luck on the next book.
Re: The Promise (10:02pm April 19, 2009):
Don't know what my first books were, but reading has always been very important to me. I'm the oldest of six - all very close in age. Every Saturday starting when I was in third grade or so, I'd walk into town as early as I could and spend the day at the library. I read mostly science books for a long time and added Nancy Drew. I spent a lot of time by myself at home and would read a good part of the time. The habit continued through high school and college. In the Peace Corps, volunteers were given library - a box of about 25 books. We' read what we liked and pass them around. Reading was a lifeline at some times - especially during rainy season. Today I read for work - I work in a small library. I try to keep up with both children's and adult books. It has been enjoyable finding new authors. However I now have more books on my TBR shelf than I'll ever be able to read. I read just about anything except horror and erotica. Still like suspense, romance, and nonfiction best.
Re: While My Sister Sleeps (10:16pm April 17, 2009):
People forget that writers must do much more that just write their books. They must "sell" it to their publisher, deal with cover issues, editors, and then the PR to reach the buying public. Your books are very good. You are a standing order at our library, usually with a waiting list started when the patrons know a new one is coming. Keep up the good work. We appreciate your communicating with "your public".
Re: Mastering The Marquess (11:35pm April 16, 2009):
As the oldest of 6, I always felt like the odd man out. My relationship with my middle sister wasn't all that great when we were younger, but we both have grown up and our good friends now. My baby sister was never really involved in the sibling rivalry thing - I was out of college and overseas by the time she was in 5th grade. Can actually relate to the sisters in Pride and Prejudice. They are all very different and that is the way it should be.
Re: The Texas Twins (10:24pm April 15, 2009):
How could we function without lists. My memory and organization have been scattered lately and lists have been a necessity. Of course I keep loosing/misplacing them which doesn't help. I think part of the appeal of a list is getting to check things off which makes you feel like something is getting done. Texas Twins sounds good. Will look for it.
Re: The Heir's Scandalous Affair (11:42pm April 14, 2009):
I like series, but it is frustrating when you find old books and can't find all the books in a series. I work in a library and we get donations all the time. I've discovered some good authors that way. However, someone gave us 8 books in a 12 book series and the last one is missing. The series came out in the 80's I think so it will be a challenge to find the rest. I'm in trouble because I started some of our patrons on the series. We've all enjoyed seeing how the characters grow and interconnect.
Re: Someone Like You (10:00pm April 13, 2009):
Series are a great idea. We enter a world, are introduced to great characters, and want to know more about all of them. One book is never enough to get to know everyone's story. Great series allow us to enjoy the characters and their world for a while. We still may hate to see them "leave", but at least have had a good long time with them.
Re: Paradise Valley (4:29pm April 12, 2009):
I still prefer reading to going to a movie. I enjoy movies and some need to be seen on the big screen (Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings). However most others I'd rather watch at home. Those I really like, I buy so I can watch them over and over and end up spending less than one trip to the theater. Right now I'm reading Silent In The Grace by Deanna Raybourn and Wild Indigo by Sandi Ault. Will be starting Julie Kenners Good Ghouls Do at work (my lunch reading). My TBR pile is getting way too high!
Re: The Accidental Human (4:19pm April 12, 2009):
Happy Easter and other Spring Holidays. The cover does matter to me. It was a long tim e before I picked up a romance novel because of the bodice ripper covers. The male versions out now that leave very little to the imagination aren't much better. I work at a small county library with a large church going, older lady patronage. I have to think of them when I put books on the shelf. If these guy's pants get any lower, there won't be anything left to the imagination. It isn't necessary. If the story is good and the author known, the book will sell. Putting a half naked man or woman on the cover won't make the story any better. I'm not a prude, I read these books. That said, I read the back cover or cover flap to see what the story is about - that is more important than the cover. If the story needs an overly sexy picture to sell it, maybe it isn't worth reading.
Re: Unseen (3:46pm April 10, 2009):
We all have our own birthdays, but our first daughter was born the day between my mother's and her mother's birthday - Nov. 7,8,9. Our son was born the end of Nov. as were my fraternal grandmother and my husband's mother- 25,28,30. Was going to say November was a busy month, but in reality February was. Which is odd, because our other daughter was born Feb. 15 (know when that happened - her dad came home from 3 months overseas). Only have one grandson. He is great, but I want granddaughters to do things with. Good luck with your "solo" career. It has gotten off to a good start.
Re: Last Gasp (10:13pm April 9, 2009):
I love suspense novels with a bit of romance thrown in. I remember when In Cold Blood came out. I lived in rural upstate N. Y. and couldn't sleep for days after reading it. I'm not so skittish now, but a really good thriller can still freak me out. Look forward to reading your book.
Re: 4 Bodies And A Funeral (11:20pm April 8, 2009):
As with most jobs, they sound more glamorous than they really are. People forget about the hours of drudge work involved to get the job done. If you love your job, it is easier to deal with.
Re: Rewriting Monday (10:52pm April 7, 2009):
About your books, I work at a small county library and your books are very popular - especially the westerns. It is great to find a new author, put their books on the shelf, and see them be appreciated. Keep up the good work and know that you are enjoyed in this little corner of TN.
Re: Rewriting Monday (10:45pm April 7, 2009):
I wish I had pursued a career. I like my life, but there were things I would have liked to do that didn't fit with the path taken. As a military wife with small children and a husband who could leave at any minute, I focused on making a stable home for the children and acting as both parents when necessary. I was a very good student and should have gone for my Masters. 37 years ago it wasn't as easy to find a program that you could study away from the college.
Re: Dragonbound (9:34pm April 6, 2009):
When a story finds you, write it. There is no reason you can't keep a pen in both worlds. If you are working on a story and another intrudes, make notes (mental or otherwise) on the second that is pestering you. You do a wonderful job with both your historicals and fantasy, why not keep them both. A trip back to Ragona is something your fans will enjoy looking forward to and it will be worth the wait. Consider it your Regency Career bonus - you get a trip to Fantasyland.
Re: Temptation Ridge (11:17pm April 4, 2009):
Yes, romances are sort of the sedative for those of us who could have better days. At times, we don't need to read about chaos and suspense - we have enough of our own. Something sweet, not necessarily simple, and satisfying - best of all it isn't fattening. What more could one want to sooth the soul when your 18 year old son walks into the bedroom at 3 AM asking "Who's going to take me to the hospital, I just cut my finger off?" Too bad I forgot a book that night. He's 26 now, I keep a book in the car just in case, but he's getting better at getting himself to the emergency room. I wasn't even home when the bear attacked him in the back yard (wish I had been, he didn't go to the hospital and should have). We do earn every grey hair, don't we.
Re: The Wine Seekers (11:53pm April 3, 2009):
I would think some of an author's characters would be what they wished they could be or do.
Re: A World I Never Made (11:45pm April 2, 2009):
You are so correct. Suspense with no great characters is rather flat. Both are needed for a good story. I work at a small county library and you are very popular with our suspense readers. We always make sure we have your current books on the shelf. Thanks for some great stroies.
Re: Red-Headed Stepchild (11:58pm April 1, 2009):
Glad to hear I wasn't the only one afraid of things that might go bump in the night. Afraid I'm still not over it and I'm quite a bit older than you are. Still can't watch horror movies. They would give me nightmares for weeks. I am getting better, but won't push my luck. Like your idea of dealing with your characters with a sense of humor. We all need more of that and it certainly doesn't hurt.
Re: The Inn at Eagle Point (10:02pm March 31, 2009):
The Chesapeake is a special area. Visited it a few times, but would love to go back now that the children are grown to really enjoy a relaxing trip. Look forward to your series, Sherryl.
Re: Lady Anne And The Howl In The Dark (10:57pm March 30, 2009):
Yes, yes, and yes. I grew up, and went to college in the same town, never traveled or got to do much different. Two weeks after graduation I left for the Peace Corps and spent 3 years on the other side of the world. Loved it. I'm always getting involved in one thing or another for either my job (children's librarian) or some other group. I'm constantly researching some new project or topic we'll be working on (cowboys, theater restoration, the arts, space, medieval life, pow wows, to name a few). It keeps life interesting. I love learning new stuff. Julie Garwood's were my first romance books. When she switched from historicals to modern suspense I was really upset. She is a great author and her FBI books are good. I just miss the historicals.
Re: Kiss Of Darkness (11:09pm March 27, 2009):
Cute idea for a blog. Enjoyed it. Had picked up one of your books to sample, but it is still on the TBR shelf. Will have to get to it soon and find the other ones. They sound good. Keep up the good work.
Re: Lords Of Corruption (12:07pm March 27, 2009):
Too true. What little traveling I was able to do on my way home from the Peace Corps in 1971 proved things were much the same as your experiences. You really can't make up some of the things that happen. I had three months planned, but got word my mother was dying and headed home after just two weeks (Sinapore, Indonesia,Bali). I can only imagine the wonderful and wierd experiences that awaited me in Southeast Asia, the Indian sub-continent, and the Middle East. I'd love to complete the trip someday, but I'm not 24 anymore and the world is a very different place.
Re: Night Life (12:53pm March 26, 2009):
A very informative piece. Had heard of Suzanne Simmons Guntrum's passing. Have read many of her books under most of her pen names. I was also looking forward to Night Hunter. She will be missed, especially by you, her friends and fellow writers.
Re: Too Rich and Too Dead (12:30pm March 26, 2009):
I am so jealous! I never got to travel as a child and have tried to make up for it in my adult life. My husband and I hit the road whenever we can. To bad I'm not a travel writer - couyld do so much more if someone else was paying for it. Sounds like a series that might go over well at the little library where I work. I'll check it out. Happy traveling.
Re: Pursuit (10:38pm March 25, 2009):
Have always enjoyed your books. Looks like you have 2 more winners.
Re: To Beguile A Beast (9:56pm March 23, 2009):
The variation on Beauty and the Beast story is one of my favorites. This one sounds like it will be an enjoyable read. Have enjoyed your books.
Re: Evil In Carnations (9:20pm March 20, 2009):
Glad to hear you are recovering. It is frightening just how fast our lives can change and we have absolutely no control over what happens. We don't appreciate how important our health is until something happens to it. As you well know, no one realizes how bad it can get until you are there. It puts a whole new perspective on what is important. Hope you continue to improve. Keep up the good writing.
Re: Sophie's Secret (9:09pm March 19, 2009):
Have read a couple of the past More Than Words. I love anthologies and the reason behind these is excellent. Everyone should buy one and support the causes. Keep up the good writing.
Re: A Knife Edge (11:21pm March 17, 2009):
The topics/situations Vin Cooper gets into seem to be serious enough. A sense of humor is necessary to survive. My husband is retired military. A lot of the guys I met when he was in were nice guys but being politically correct wasn't high on the list of their personality traits. In a time of crisis, brash and cynical some times work best. Life is serious enough, approaching it with a sense of humor is sometimes the only way to hang in there.
Re: Would-Be Witch (11:44pm March 16, 2009):
Probably the Scottish Highlands. The time period would be hard, they always seemed to be at war. Before the 1700's, since it would only be for a couple of weeks. The late 1800's to the first decade of the 1900's in just about anywhere would be interesting.
Re: The Deepest Cut (10:09pm March 13, 2009):
Good advise. Am going to copy it and give it to a friend who is trying to get her first book published. Rules for reading? If you have more than one book going at the same time (I usually have 3 or 4) make them different genres. It is way to easy to have plots and characters get confused. Right now I have a James Paterson, a western and a modern romance going plus a couple of children's books.
Re: Intimate Beings (11:06pm March 12, 2009):
Kelli Jo - What a thought provoking comment. It is sad to think that the history of a person, a family, a town, a relationship would just stop, as if it never existed. It may not be written down, but it should still be carried if only in someone's heart or memory. You would hope that in some way a person's life was touched enough to carry a part of "you" with it.
Re: Simple Wishes (8:54pm March 11, 2009):
Sounds like an interesting book. I agree with you on the specialness of handcrafted items. My husband and son are both woodworkers and blacksmiths. We have a wide variety of interests few of which obviously overlap. I can see how all of your elements can come together.
Re: 4 Bodies And A Funeral (9:51pm March 10, 2009):
Yes. When I left the Peace Corps and was taking time to travel home, I went to Indonesia. The train I took across the island arrived about midnight or so. The only way to get to town was by pedicab. Other than the lights at the station, there were none. I had no idea how far it was to town, what direction, or how much it should cost. It was pitch dark, no one knew where I was or was expecting me. When we got to the compound where I was staying and woke someone up to let me in, there was a problem. I didn't have change to pay the driver and he thought I was trying to cheat him. He didn't know enough english to understand what I was trying to explain. Luckily the owner of the place I was staying woke up enough to explain it him and take care of things. We (P. C. Volunteers) tended to stay in out of the way places, not tourist hotels. For $2 a night you didn't get much even in 1971. I am careful most of the time. Actually, I follow all the suggestions you had in your piece.
Re: Fury Calls (10:15pm March 9, 2009):
Read Holiday With a Vampire. Am curious to see what happens with the characters. Happy Birthday and keep up the good writing.
Re: Summer On Blossom Street (10:00pm March 8, 2009):
I get involved in most of the books I read, and usually relate to one character. Just finished Dakota Born, by Debbie Macomber. I can relate to the town and several of the characters. I usually relate to historical characters more than contemporary ones. Our whole family seems to have been born in the wrong century.
Re: Scandal (11:12pm March 7, 2009):
I love historicals. Most authors take time to research the time and place of their story and in a way turn it into a bit of a history lesson. In some cases, I've followed up with research about something mentioned in a romance. My first romance was Julie Garwood's The Prize. It was the first of many and a to read bookcase (actually several) that keeps getting more full.
Re: Book of Sudoku (11:05pm March 7, 2009):
I work in a small library and you wouldn't believe what happens to books. We had one returned with a piece of baloney in it for a bookmark. Books come back with split spines after only one use. I had one lady tell me the first thing she does with a new book is to open it and bend it back so the covers meet. I lost four teen books in one week. One girl brought 2 books in soaking wet with no explanation. A boy brought in two books with the spines broken and pages ripped out. What really hurt was it was the first time each book had been checked out. It is true they don't make books like they used to, but people need to be more careful. It is really sad that most people don't care and give you a hard time about replacing the book. Most don't realize how poorly funded most libraries are.
Re: Safe By His Side (9:43pm March 5, 2009):
I like both light paranormal and dark. It depends on my mood which I read at any time. Like you the love/hate is exercise. Dieting is a biggie too. Housework isn't so bad, I just don't get much time to do it. We've been renovating the victorian we live in for the last 16 years and there are boxes all over. I need a week or so to just lock myself in and dig into the mess.
Re: Fury Calls (10:02pm March 4, 2009):
Enjoyed Holiday With A Vampire. Look forward to reading more in The Calling Series. If an author isn't involved with his/her characters, it shows and the story suffers. The more involved, the better you know them and the more "realistic" the stories. Keep up the good writing.
Re: The Better To Hold You (9:38pm March 3, 2009):
I've been sharing books on tape/CD with my husband. Good writers are good writers no matter what the genre. Some are suspense novels, some "kids" books, some nonfiction, and of course romance. Except for almost driving off the road during a rather unexpected and detailed sex scene (guess I should have warned him), he has for the most part enjoyed all I've thrown his way. On one trip, I read four books in a series to him while we were driving (Janet Chapman). We happened to be visiting the area the stories took place. He finally caught on that I was skipping sections (too embarrassed to read them out loud). Sorry, if he wants the juicy parts, he'll have to read them himself.
Re: Bride By Command (10:02pm March 2, 2009):
Beauty and the Beast is my all time favorite. It reminds us to look beyond appearances and into the heart of everyone. Don't be too hasty to judge anyone.
Re: The C.O.O. Must Marry (9:51pm February 27, 2009):
Actually my long journey has been tied to my husband's. We were friends in high school and went our separate ways. I followed my dream of joining the Peace Corps and he ended up in the Air Force. Seven years since we had last seen each other, we met up again and got married. 38 years later our journey is going strong with lots of laughs, tears and happiness along the way. ( A successful marriage and family seem to be harder to come by every year.) We are looking forward to a longer journey still.
Re: Kisses Like A Devil (9:09pm February 26, 2009):
I really, really want to go to Ireland and Scotland - home of my ancestors. My husbands ancestors came from England, so we'd stop there. A far away place I'd like to return to is Bali. It is truly a place out of time (of course I was there 38 years ago.). More recently, we were in Wyoming and Montana. Would like to go back there and see what we didn't have time to visit. Some day - Chaco Canyon. Did I mention I love to travel and want to go everywhere and see everything. Just need to find a spare million or so.
Re: The Wine Seekers (9:58pm February 17, 2009):
Funny how so much of our life revolves around food. Special meals with family and friends. Those special places you find when you are traveling. We made a 250 mile detour on a trip to go back to a really good homemade ice cream parlor in Maine. We found a wonderful winery in central Tennessee. We can usually find a reason once a year to head that way and buy a case. We enjoy the trip and have at least 12 good meals with good wine, and even better company.
Re: Secret Fantasy (10:12pm February 14, 2009):
Yes, I tend to buy my own gifts, as does my husband. Not all the time, but the older we get, the less we need, so we get what we need/want after telling each other "guess what you're getting me."
Re: Millionaire's Secret Seduction (9:21pm February 12, 2009):
Fagin from the movie Oliver. He never was truly evil, just a flawed human. You couldn't approve of him, but he brought a smile to your face.
Re: The Concubine (9:10pm February 12, 2009):
Jade, thank you for hosting the blog contest. Look forward to reading "The Concubine."
Re: Bluegrass Courtship (8:42pm February 11, 2009):
Anyone who can survive a major renovation unscathed is doing well. Our Victorian farm house that we bought in 1992 needed a lot of work - as in rip everything out and start over. It really was/is a nice house, but it hadn't been taken care of and had had had a bad remodeling effort started. That did more damage than 100 years. We're still working on it and my husband and I are still talking to each other. We're almost done (have been saying that for years!) We still love and other and even love the house.
Re: The Man She Married (8:53pm February 10, 2009):
Thank you for the quotes. I use them at the library where I work. These will go up on my display tomorrow. Thanks and have a good Valentines Day.
Re: The Courtier's Secret (10:36pm February 9, 2009):
I agree with you 100%. A character is just that, a description. The plot is what brings them to life. Without a strong union of two quality elements, you have a mundane work. You seem to have picked a rich time period to work with.
Re: The Secret Life of Bees (6:00pm February 8, 2009):
I like to read the book first, but don't always get to do it. I do know it can be a great disappointment when they don't match well. Hallmark took Julie Garwood's For the Roses series and turned it into a movie - Rose Hill - and I have never been so furious in my life. Except for the opening scene and the name of the characters, NOTHING was the same. To say they butchered the books and used every western cliche in Hollywood would be an understatement. (Do I sound upset?) You expect a few differences, but not to loose the essence of the original story .
Re: Made To Be Broken (1:09pm February 7, 2009):
I finished Inkheart this week (I'm a children's librarian). I was impressed how rich the language is. Look forward to reading the other two. I just started Kim Lenox's "Night Falls Darkly." First of hers I've read and am finding it interesting. Have a long list of must reads. Robyn Carr and Carla Neggers have been on it for a while. Have a feeling they will be someone I'll have to tell my boss to put on the shelves. I love introducing our patrons to new authors. It is a small county library and there are a lot of authors for me to add. We have a lot of suspense and romance lovers.
Re: A Lie For A Lie (8:53pm February 6, 2009):
I can see why you like to return to "your town and characters". You spend a lot of time and effort to create them. Who would want to leave them after just one story. As a reader,it is enjoyable to revisit your characters. We hate to leave them after one story and thank you for keeping them around.
Re: The Temptation Of The Night Jasmine (10:08pm February 5, 2009):
I've always liked the strong silent type. They do what needs to be done, suffer in silence, and can take what life throws at them.
Re: The Secret Agent's Surprises (10:24pm February 4, 2009):
You've done well. Nothing is better than being able to use your talents doing something you really enjoy. The bonus is being able to make a living of it. We can't all be so lucky. You are in a field with some other really great people and as you said, you've been lucky enough to meet some of them. I wish you much future success and enjoyment.
Re: A Desirable Husband (8:56pm February 3, 2009):
I've read several of your books over the years. I always have Regency books on hand. They make a pleasant read and a nice break from serial killers, vampires and oversexed couples. I enjoy many different genres and historicals are a big part of it.
Re: The Diary of Cozette (10:43pm February 2, 2009):
I like characters with quiet dignity and strength. The are not the flashy heros, they are the ones who struggle, live and conquer their situation.
Re: The Magic Knot (8:41pm January 30, 2009):
I prefer the rural setting. It sort of gives more magical leeway to the plot. Cities give a more gritty hard feeling to a story. Lets face it, misty moors, cobbled villages, shadowed forests and flowered meadows are wonderful settings for romance and magic - no matter what the year.
Re: Evil Without A Face (7:38pm January 29, 2009):
Home computer supervision is important, but there are other ways kids can get on line. They can find friends who are not supervised and go to internet cafes. Most public libraries have computers with internet access. At the small library where I work, you must be 18 to access sites such as Facebook and MySpace. Our firewall also makes an over ride necessary for sites with "adult" content. It is not perfect, but it is a start. Some parents don't want the controls. Some have even come in with their children, gotten the over ride, and then turned the computer over to their child and left. They see the "fun" aspect of the chatrooms, etc. and don't want to hear about the dangers. Before the firewalls were installed, we did have one 13 or 14 year old who was conversing with a man and trying to set up a meeting. We can't stop the over 18 set, but we have tried to explain to some of the young women the chances they are taking, but they don't want to hear it. We can have them get off sites that are visually offensive, but the written word is another matter. We don't want to become the internet use police, but the lack of common sense by some users is scary.
Re: Darkness Unknown (8:03pm January 28, 2009):
Another new series to explore! I work in a small county library and it is hard keeping up with all my favorite authors. There are so many of you out there that are good. I enjoy finding new authors and introducing them to our patrons. I look forward to reading your Paladin books.
Re: Thread of Fear (4:10pm January 24, 2009):
I work at a small county library. We do have a book club use our meeting room. I, however, participate in sort of an running book club with our patrons. We share books we've read, suggest what others may like, and patrons suggest new authors they'd like us to get. I get to pick up new authors and introduce them to patrons. It's a lot of fun and since there is no meeting time we are including a lot of people that would never join a "real" reading group. We've all discovered some good new books. I like being able to talk with people with a wide variety of tastes in books. Through us they are sharing with people they've never met. It's great fun. I love my job!
Re: Thread of Fear (8:58pm January 21, 2009):
Nancy Drew was a favorite. In high school I found Mary O'Hara' trilogy MY FRIEND FLICKA, THUNDERHEAD, and GREEN GRASS OF WYOMING. I spent a lot of time reading books on archeology and scientific discoveries and exploration.
Re: Ringing In Murder (8:22pm January 20, 2009):
We have just "discovered" you at our small county library. We did order your christmas book in 2007 and some time this year my boss discovered your series. It is hard in a library as small as ours (with a small budget) to add new authors, but you are definitely one. Everyone who has checked one of your books out has enjoyed the read. We are slowly adding to our collection and hope to have them all soon. Keep up the good writing!
Re: Talk Me Down (8:40pm January 19, 2009):
I agree with you on the historicals. Yes there are pirates, highwaymen and forced marriages, but in the current context, there isn't much romantic about them.
Re: Heart Of Courage (12:44pm January 12, 2009):
Have read your historicals in the past and really enjoyed them. You do a very good job of setting the tone for the period in which the story happens. Your characters are rich and wonderful to get to know. They are "real" and I find myself invested in the turmoil of their lives. I find myself going back to my favorite books just to read certain scenes. Keep up the good writing.
Re: Out of This World Lover (7:46pm January 11, 2009):
Yes, I have a large collection of anthologies and am always picking up more. Most are really good stories. I can pick one up and start a story late and still finish it at a reasonable hour rather than stay up late trying to read just one more chapter.
Re: Smoke Screen (4:38pm January 11, 2009):
Yes, there are authors I just have to have. Julie Garwood was the very first romance author I ever read and I had to have all her books. Got a little upset when she left her historicals to do modern FBI, but couldn't stay mad long. Janet Chapman, Karen Moning, Kathy Reichs, Julia Spencer-Fleming, Julie Kenner, and a few series from Catherine Coulter and Nora Roberts are also keepers. There are lots of other authors that are must have's, but I'm forcing myself not to hold on to them. I work at a small county library, so I have access to all the books I need, plus I do a lot of the purchasing, so if I find a new author, I just make sure to order them and look for all the backlist titles. There are still backlists of so many authors I'm trying to work my way through. Then of course there are the authors I'm just now discovering. There are still boxes of books here at the house that must be read before they go to the library. As the saying goes "So many books, so little tome."
Re: The Vorkosigan Companion (8:24pm January 1, 2009):
Love to read and generally have a book at work, one at home, a book on CD in the car, and a children's book all going at the same time. I'm always looking for new authors and new books by old favorites. There is just never enough time to read all the great books out there!
Re: Kissing Games Of The World (10:46pm December 30, 2008):
Enjoyed your description of having your characters find you and give you their story. They are obviously doing a good job. Keep up the good work and keep your "door"(?) open for your next story.
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