Snippet Sunday: 99 cent sweet contemporary romance: A Polish Heart #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my sweet contemporary romance, perfect for the Easter season, A Polish Heart. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

This snippet:      Darrin asked Sofia to dinner, but...

*****

A small sliver of fear knotted in his shoulder. He picked up the phone.

"Hello, Darrin," Sofia said.

There was an awkward pause, "So, what's up?"

"My father wants to meet you."

"Oh."

"He's very old fashioned. I'll understand if you don't want to have
dinner."

****

This snippet has been modified to fit the 8 sentence limit. 

"A Polish Heart" is a sweet contemporary romance.  Darrin Riverton, an architect from the United States is assigned to a challenging project which requires a trip to Poland. Sofia Buraczynski is assigned as his translator and his first sight of her heats his blood.

With Sofia as his guide, Darrin discovers Poland and many new things about himself, as well. When a chance is presented for him to remain in Poland, will he leave behind family and all that is familiar to follow his heart? 

****

Reviews for A Polish Heart:

5 Stars, Reader Lady, Amazon Reviewers
"This is an excellent read!"

5 Stars, Tara Manderino, Amazon Reviews
"A totally enjoyable read."

5 Stars, Diane Craver, Amazon Reviews
"A wonderful and fascinating read."

BUY LINKS: 
Amazon:
http://amzn.com/B007AS29AO

Barnes and Nobles:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-polish-heart-stephanie-burkhart/1111503774?ean=2940033247875

Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/164429

Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-polish-heart

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

New Story Release: 99 cent contemporary romance: Arrow Through The Heart #newbookrelease

Welcome my new release: Arrow Through the Heart.  It's a short story, approx 12K (words) published with Victory Tales Press. It's available for 99 cents - a great deal!

BLURB: Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: When I think of summer, I think of being outdoors, so I wanted a major of the setting to be outdoors. I wanted Ella to be a strong heroine, one who was very self-confident, and I thought being an althete would give her that.  She's modeled after Maria Sharipova. I wanted my hero to be down-to-earth and very easy-going.  Logan really embodies that. 

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about 6 weeks to write the story.  

#3: Why set the story in New Hampshire?

STEPHANIE: I come from the area so I'm familiar with it.  I did do some research about the lake and some on tennis. I always have fun researching.  Anyhoo... New England is a place where summer is a very distinctive season and I thought it was the best place for the story. 

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: There's plenty of suspense and romance. Logan is a special kind of hero - just perfect for Ella. 

#5: How long have you been writing short stories for Victory Tales Press?

STEPHANIE: Since 2010 or 2011. My first story was "Christmas in Bayeux."  I like to travel to international locations in my short stories.  It's a nice escape and travel, especially around Christmas time. 

Reviews:

5 Stars, Maggie Toussaint, Amazon Reviewer: "A sweet novella about falling in love."

5 Stars, Reader Forever, Amazon Reviewer: "This is a well-written fast-paced novella that I read in a couple of hours. I love the idea of setting the story around a tennis tournament since we never miss tennis shows on TV. The characters are nicely developed and there is enough suspense to keep you hooked. Recommended read."

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous stories with Victory Tales Press include: Christmas in Bayeux, Gifts, Feast of Candles, and Mr. Christmas Elf.   Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

Arrow Through the Heart is avail from Victory Tales Press as ebook.

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON: http://amzn.com/B00TJH0UT6

BARNES & NOBLE: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/arrow-through-the-heart-stephanie-burkhart/1121218765?ean=2940046574821

SMASHWORDS: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/518986

KOBO: 
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/arrow-through-the-heart-1

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

On Writing: Writing a Romantic Heroine #writingtips

When it comes to romance, it’s about two people, the hero and heroine’s perspective that takes the reader on the journey. So why is the heroine’s point of view important?

A majority of romance genre readers are women and women usually identify with a feminine point of view. Don’t get me wrong, men also read romance. So what makes a romantic heroine appealing to both sets of readers?

It all comes down to the qualities she embodies. It’s a tricky balance finding the right qualities to give your heroine, but the one a writer really has to nail is: Does she respect herself?

Self-respect means the world to the reader and appeals to not only women but men, too. What qualities embody self-respect? Is she clever or witty? Does she fall for every little lie she’s told? Is she independent? Self-supporting? Mature? Or does she easily walk into traps? Is she helpless or inconsistent?

Modern heroines should strive to be witty, clever, and self-supporting. But modern heroines are “too” perfect, aren’t they? Especially when it comes to weight and physical attractiveness.

A modern heroine’s weight can be a challenge to portray, but it doesn’t have to be. Realistically, I can tell you it can be a struggle to keep the weight down. Heck, I’m struggling to get the weight down after I had my last child and that was 8 years ago! To write a realistic heroine, not only does she have to be self-supporting and independent, but she’s got to be convincingly attractive. So what does that mean?

The heroine does her best to take care of her body and her mind. It’s all right if she’s not a model. She has to possess self-respect and do her best to take care of herself. She also has to have those inner qualities that will make her attractive to the hero. Does she have a temper or is she even-tempered? Is she kind? Compassionate? These are qualities that the hero appreciates. She doesn’t have to be perfect, just realistic.

Question: What qualities do you look for/or want in a romantic heroine?

Author Bio: Stephanie Burkhart is a 911 dispatcher for LAPD. She writes steampunk, paranormal and contemporary romance. She writes children's books with 4RV Publishing. She lives in Castaic, CA and is a den leader for her son's cub scout pack. Her latest novel is Book 3 in the Windsor Diaries steampunk series, “A Lady Never Lies.”

BLURB:

Jocelyn Dunkirk is not your typical Victorian lady. She dresses in leather, wears goggles and is not afraid to get a little grease under her fingernails. Gentlemen avoid her like a dirty rivet.

Richard Windsor, the Prince of Wales, travels through time to claim Jocelyn's heart, but if it isn't one challenge, it's another. He determines to be a constant, steady presence in her life, hoping to prove he'd make a worthy husband.

Jocelyn's facing a bucket full of problems. The Prime Minister wants her to assist in ending a coal strike before it cripples the nation while her father attempts to recover from a serious injury. Will Jocelyn's dedication to her country and family ruin the one chance she has at love? 

EXCERPT:

She swatted her hand next to her head like she was swatting a fly. Love could flitter away from her heart like a hummingbird for all she cared. Who needed it? Love hurt.

A knock rapped on the door, but before she could voice a reply, Richard walked in. He crossed the room, raw concern splayed over his face and he knelt before her. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"You look annoyed."

"A lady never cusses," she replied.

His lips tipped in amusement. "What else does a lady never do?"

"They never wear the same dress twice."

He pulled up a chair and sat in front of her. "I believe that."

"And a lady never lies," she said.

He slid his hand over hers and laced their fingers together. A sweet jolt pulsed up her arm and she smiled despite herself.

"So what's bothering you?" he asked.

REVIEWS:

"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue Review

This is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites

"A wonderful book."

BUY LINKS FOR A LADY NEVER LIES:

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK:

http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/the-windsor-diaries-book-three-a-lady-never-lies-epub/

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-aladyneverlies-1547037-343.html

BARNES & NOBLE (NOOK)

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-lady-never-lies-stephanie-burkhart/1119712149?ean=2940149360352

AMAZON (KINDLE:)

http://amzn.com/B00KX6FD12

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:

http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee

PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Now Available an ebook: 1st Flag of New Hampshire, middle school fiction #newebook

Now available as an Ebook for 4.99: First Flag of New Hampshire.  It's a children's middle school fiction book, grades 5-9.

BLURB: It’s the start of the school year, and Alyssa has to take American Studies for college prep. She’s paired with classmate Miguel De Soto to find the first flag of New Hampshire, but the flag has only flown four times in New Hampshire’s past. Can Alyssa and Miguel track the flag through history before time is up?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: I wanted to write a mystery story involving two young sleuths so I took a page out of my own background and routed the setting in Manchester, New Hampshire.  Aly and Miguel are honor students taking an honors class "American Studies."  It's through this class they're exposed to "American/State" mysteries.  The first book is Flag Flag of New Hampshire. 

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took between 4-6 weeks.   

#3: Why set the story in New Hampshire?

STEPHANIE: I come from the area so I'm familiar with it.  I did some research and discovered New Hampshire has a rich colonial history that was fun to tap into.  

#4: What makes this book special? Did you pick the illustrator? 

STEPHANIE: There's plenty of mystery.  It will appeal to a wide, young middle school audience. No, 4RV picked the illustrator. I think Ginger Nelson did a fanstastic job capturing Aly, Miguel and appeal of autumn. 

#5: How long have you been writing for 4RV Publishing.

STEPHANIE: Since 2010. My 1st children's book was "The Giving Meadow," and just recently, "Brady's Lost Blanket" was published. 

Reviews:

5 Stars, Amazon Customer, Amazon Review:  The story was fast paced, fresh, and I learned a lot about the first flag of New Hampshire.

4 Stars, Cheryl C. Malandrinos, Amazon Reviewer: Stephanie Burkhart makes history fun in this engaging middle school/young adult story.


Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow and Brady's Lost Blanket.   Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

First Flag of New Hampshire is now available as ebook.

EBOOK BUY LINKS:

AMAZON: http://amzn.com/B00UW2R71Q

BARNES & NOBLE: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/first-flag-of-new-hampshire-stephanie-burkhart/1109218791?ean=9780983801832

KOBO: 
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/the-first-flag-of-new-hampshire

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

New Release: Brady's Lost Blanket, children's book #newbookrelease

Welcome my new release: Brady's Lost Blanket from 4RV Publishing. Illustrator Bridget McKenna's drawing are whimiscal and heartfelt and a perfect compliment for the story.

BLURB:Brady is a sensitive young boy who takes his blankie wherever he goes. After traveling with his parents to visit his new cousin, Brady accidently leaves his blanket behind. Can Brady learn to get by without his blankie?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: One of my husband's relatives mentioned their grandchild had a blankie and was having a hard time without it.  I drew on my own childhood memories of having a blankie.  I think letting go of the blankie is the first step in growing up.

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about a week to write the story. I have to thank 4RV Publishing for publishing Brady's Lost Blanket.  It took about 2 weeks back and forth with the editing.

#3: Did you pick the illustrator?

STEPHANIE: No, I did not.  4RV Publishing selected the illustrator.  I think Bridget McKenna did a great job with the illustrations.  They have a very whimsical feel and compliment the story well. 

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: Brady's Lost Blanket has a message for all young children who become attached to "something" (be it a blanket or something else) because they want to feel secure. It's okay to let go of our "security" nets and move forward.  It maybe a little scary at first, but once you go without it, you learn you can live without it. 

#5: How long have you been writing children's books?

STEPHANIE: About 5 years now. My first children's book, "The Giving Meadow" was published with 4RV Publishing in 2010. It has a great message about sharing and caring for young children as well as telling about Caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. It's perfect for Easter as it helps young children understand Jesus' story.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

BRADY'S LOST BLANKET is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Bradys-Lost-Blanket-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310040/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1423445945&sr=8-8&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

BARNES & NOBLE:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bradys-lost-blanket-stephanie-burkhart/1121138037?ean=9781940310046

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

Snippet Sunday: 99 cent contemporary romance: A Polish Heart #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my sweet contemporary romance, perfect for the Easter season, A Polish Heart. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

This snippet:      Darrin makes an observation.

*****

As soon as they left the office, Mr. Dracek struck up a very animated conversation with Sofia. She replied when appropriate, but her voice was more measured. Darrin was curious as to what Dracek was talking to her about. He seemed almost familiar with her and the tone of his voice was protective.

Could he be her boyfriend?

The thought was like a punch in the gut. Mr. Dracek opened his office door and Darrin reached out, gently touching her elbow. "Are you all right?"

****

This snippet has been modified to fit the 8 sentence limit. 

"A Polish Heart" is a sweet contemporary romance.  Darrin Riverton, an architect from the United States is assigned to a challenging project which requires a trip to Poland. Sofia Buraczynski is assigned as his translator and his first sight of her heats his blood.

With Sofia as his guide, Darrin discovers Poland and many new things about himself, as well. When a chance is presented for him to remain in Poland, will he leave behind family and all that is familiar to follow his heart? 

****

Reviews for A Polish Heart:

5 Stars, Reader Lady, Amazon Reviewers
"This is an excellent read!"

5 Stars, Tara Manderino, Amazon Reviews
"A totally enjoyable read."

5 Stars, Diane Craver, Amazon Reviews
"A wonderful and fascinating read."

BUY LINKS: 
Amazon:
http://amzn.com/B007AS29AO

Barnes and Nobles:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-polish-heart-stephanie-burkhart/1111503774?ean=2940033247875

Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/164429

Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-polish-heart

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Book Review: The Death Cure by James Dashner #bookreview

Book Review for: The Death Cure

 Written by: James Dashner

 DelaCorte Press

 ISBN: 978-0-385-73878-1

 Avail in print and as an ebook

4 Stars

Dashner crafts an action packed ending to “The Maze Runner” series with “The Death Cure.” The killzone trials are done and Thomas is reunited with Teresa and his friends in WICKED’s headquarters. Only now, due to Teresa’s betrayal and WICKED’s secrets, Thomas is not very trusting. Dare he get his memories back so as to understand WICKED’s true purpose?

Thomas now understands the devastation the sun flares have done to the Earth. He comprehends now the release of the virus called “The Flare” has destroyed humanity. Ultimately, he has a choice – find a cure to the Flare or save humanity’s immunes to start all over again.

Dashner’s writing is crisp, sharp, and engaging. Thomas is a true hero, striving to do the right thing in the face of adversity. The supporting cast embodies friendship, loyalty, and a fierce conviction in their beliefs.

While the ending resolves the series in a satisfactory conclusion, I was a little disappointed in the resolution between Thomas and Teresa, as I feel it was sacrificed for the sake of an action packed ending.

“The Death Cure” is a dystopian futuristic young adult novel. I would recommend it for 11 years on up. “The Death Cure” will leave you breathless.

Question:  Did you see "the Maze Runner" movie?  

Snippet Sunday: 99 cent contemporary romance: A Polish Heart #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my sweet contemporary romance, perfect for the Easter season, A Polish Heart. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

This snippet:       Darrin reacts to  Mr. Czyinski's offer.

*****

"Sofia, I…I don't know what to say. Thank him for me, I guess, but—"

She paused and arched an eyebrow, "But what?"

"Well, I certainly understand family commitments and I respect them. I would want you to spend time with me this weekend because you wanted to, not because you felt obligated."

She took a quick breath as surprise danced in her expressive chocolate brown eyes and her face softened. "We'll talk later."

Darrin nodded andSofia addressed Mr. Czyinski. 

****

This snippet has been modified to fit the 8 sentence limit. 

"A Polish Heart" is a sweet contemporary romance.  Darrin Riverton, an architect from the United States is assigned to a challenging project which requires a trip to Poland. Sofia Buraczynski is assigned as his translator and his first sight of her heats his blood.

With Sofia as his guide, Darrin discovers Poland and many new things about himself, as well. When a chance is presented for him to remain in Poland, will he leave behind family and all that is familiar to follow his heart? 

****

Reviews for A Polish Heart:

5 Stars, Reader Lady, Amazon Reviewers
"This is an excellent read!"

5 Stars, Tara Manderino, Amazon Reviews
"A totally enjoyable read."

5 Stars, Diane Craver, Amazon Reviews
"A wonderful and fascinating read."

BUY LINKS: 
Amazon:
http://amzn.com/B007AS29AO

Barnes and Nobles:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-polish-heart-stephanie-burkhart/1111503774?ean=2940033247875

Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/164429

Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-polish-heart

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

New Release: Brady's Lost Blanket, children's book #newbookrelease

Welcome my new release: Brady's Lost Blanket from 4RV Publishing. Illustrator Bridget McKenna's drawing are whimiscal and heartfelt and a perfect compliment for the story.

BLURB:Brady is a sensitive young boy who takes his blankie wherever he goes. After traveling with his parents to visit his new cousin, Brady accidently leaves his blanket behind. Can Brady learn to get by without his blankie?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: One of my husband's relatives mentioned their grandchild had a blankie and was having a hard time without it.  I drew on my own childhood memories of having a blankie.  I think letting go of the blankie is the first step in growing up.

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about a week to write the story. I have to thank 4RV Publishing for publishing Brady's Lost Blanket.  It took about 2 weeks back and forth with the editing.

#3: Did you pick the illustrator?

STEPHANIE: No, I did not.  4RV Publishing selected the illustrator.  I think Bridget McKenna did a great job with the illustrations.  They have a very whimsical feel and compliment the story well.

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: Brady's Lost Blanket has a message for all young children who become attached to "something" (be it a blanket or something else) because they want to feel secure. It's okay to let go of our "security" nets and move forward.  It maybe a little scary at first, but once you go without it, you learn you can live without it.

#5: How long have you been writing children's books?

STEPHANIE: About 5 years now. My first children's book, "The Giving Meadow" was published with 4RV Publishing in 2010. It has a great message about sharing and caring for young children as well as telling about Caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. It's perfect for Easter as it helps young children understand Jesus' story.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

BRADY'S LOST BLANKET is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Bradys-Lost-Blanket-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310040/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1423445945&sr=8-8&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

BARNES & NOBLE:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bradys-lost-blanket-stephanie-burkhart/1121138037?ean=9781940310046

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****