Showing posts with label wild rose press. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wild rose press. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Book Review Tuesday: Rough Waters by Maggie Toussaint #bookreview



Book Review for: Rough Waters
Written by: Maggie Toussaint
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 978-1-62830-430-5
Avail in print and in ebook

5 Stars

Nail biting Romantic Suspense!

Maggie Toussaint pens a taunt romantic suspense with "Rough Waters." Rock MacKenzie arrives in Mossy Bog intent on finding one thing – the missing coins he discovered on a dive. He's convinced Jeanie Munro's ex-husband, Avery, might have taken them. Rock meets Jeanie with the intent of her leading him to Avery, but soon discovers Jeanie has no insights into her ex-husband's whereabouts. Rock learns he's attracted to Jeanie and feels bad when her house is burglarized.

Jeanie can't deny the attraction she feels for Rock, but her priority remains with her young children. In order to keep them safe, she sends them away and actively helps Rock seek the treasure he's looking or. Rock doesn't know what to make of his confusing clues, but when Jeanie's life is put in jeopardy, he's forced to come to terms with them in order to save her life.

Toussaint's writing is engaging, filled with several twists and turns leaving the reader anxious to find out what happens next. Rock is loyal, protective, and determined. Jeanie is a modern heroine. Not only is she gutsy and intitutive, but when it comes to her kids, she puts them first. Both the characters are strong, likable leads. The supporting cast embodies southern hospitality and there's no shortage of suspects.


"Rough Waters" is a romantic suspense novel with several main stream love scenes. It's the 3rd book in the Mossy Bog series. The book stands alone in the series and embraces several elements of heightened suspense as the previous books did. I would definitely recommend it. "Rough Waters" is a page turner!

Question for you: What's your favorite romantic suspense show on TV? 

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Goddess Fish Name Before the Mass: Review for Lord of Sherwood #booktour



Lord of Sherwood:  The Guardians of Sherwood Trilogy Book Three
by Laura Strickland

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

Curlew Champion, master archer, has always known his destiny.  With his cousin, Heron Scarlet, he will become a guardian of Sherwood Forest and further his people’s fight against Norman Tyranny.  But the third member of the triad is still to be revealed, the woman who will complete the magical circle and, perhaps, answer the longing in Curlew’s heart.

Anwyn Montfort has fled disgrace in Shrewsbury and come to Nottingham at her father’s bidding.  He wishes her to make a good marriage and settle down.  But the wildness that possesses her refuses to quiet.  She knows she’s been searching for something all her life, but not until she glimpses Curlew does her spirit begin to hope it has found its home.


Only the magic of Sherwood can bring them together, and only their union can complete the spell woven so long ago …

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Curlew bowed again. When the man reached Nottingham and inquired after an under-forester called Champion, he would know this meeting for a farce. But Curlew would be well away by then.

A small, wicked smile tugged at one corner of his mouth. He straightened from his bow just as the young woman’s cart reached him. Any well-behaved Saxon underling, as Curlew well knew, would avert his eyes respectfully as she passed. Instead, he lifted them to hers.

And, shockingly, she returned his stare, bold and unswerving as any lad. Nay, not like a lad though—for she was all woman, this one, her face brimming with character, interest, and mischief. A smile twitched her lips as their eyes met and held—it said many things: that she knew he had just spun a fabrication, that she applauded him for it, and that she found him just as fascinating to look upon as he found her.

His blood leaped at that look and he condemned himself silently. This, a well-bred Norman miss, was surely no proper object for his admiration. Only, she did not appear particularly well-bred nor well-disciplined. Who was she?

And would he ever see her again?

Curlew stood there with the blood drying on his hands as the small train lumbered past, grateful for his escape, and utterly scorched by her gaze.

Not until they were well past did he draw a deep breath and strive to shake off the spell that held him.

MY REVIEW:
Book Review for: Lord of Sherwood
Written by: Laura Strickland
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 978-1-62830-349-0
Avail in print and as an ebook

4 Stars

"Lord of Sherwood" is a story full of suspense, magic, and love. Curlew and Herron are waiting for the third member of their triad to appear in order to protect Sherwood's magical forest. The sheriff has called his old friend, Montefort, to become a Forester and enforce the King's laws. It is with this command the last member finally arrives – Montefort's daughter, Anwyn.

Anwyn is a spirited young woman and Montefort is too lenient with her. After a brief meeting in the forest, Curlew haunts Anwyn's thoughts. When her father arranges Anwyn's marriage to the brute, Havers, Anwyn takes matters into her own hands. She runs away to Sherwood and into Curlew's arms. Now that the triad is together, can they keep Sherwood safe from the sheriff and his men?

Strickland's writing style is easy to read and engages the reader. Being a historical, Strickland's word choices don't slow down the reader and still capture an air of authenticity. What I loved is how Strickland's creativity and imagination shines in this original take on Sherwood Forest and the Robin Hood tales.

Indeed, the characters are a treat. Curlew embodies the nobility of his great grandfather, Robin Hood. Anwyn's inner conflict pits her against the past and her desire for a happy future. Sherwood comes alive, capturing a deep element of natural spirituality that the residents embrace. If anything, it seemed like the challenges the characters faced were too easy for them.

"Lord of Sherwood" is a historical romance with several tasteful love scenes. This is book three in the series, but reads well as a stand alone. "Lord of Sherwood" will warm your heart and keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next.  I highly recommend this book.

THE GIVEAWAY:

Laura will be awarding a $10 give certificate to The Wild Rose Press and a hand-crafted bookmark to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour, and a hand-crafted bookmark to a randomly drawn host.

GO HERE TO ENTER THE RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:  http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e434229/ Enter to win a $10 The Wild Rose Press GC and handcrafted bookmark! A Rafflecopter Giveaway

Follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: 


AUTHOR Bio and Links:


Born and raised in Western New York, Laura Strickland has pursued lifelong interests in lore, legend, magic and music, all reflected in her writing. Though her imagination frequently takes her to far off places, she is usually happiest at home not far from Lake Ontario with her husband and her "fur" child, a rescue dog. Author of Scottish romance Devil Black as well as The Guardians of Sherwood Trilogy consisting of Daughter of Sherwood, Champion of Sherwood and Lord of Sherwood, she is currently working on the second book of a new Steampunk romance series.

Links:


Facebook:


Goodreads:

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Book Review Tuesday: Daughter of Sherwood #bookreview



Book Review for: Daughter of Sherwood
Written by: Laura Strickland
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 978-1-617-9186
Avail: as an ebook and in print

4 Stars

A suspenseful story

Strickland pens a story full of action, adventure, and romance with "Daughter of Sherwood." Wren is the daughter of the legendary Robin Hood and Marion. When both parents die, she goes to live with Lil at Nottingham Castle as a scullery maid. When the triad that protects the forest is broken, Wren, now a young woman, must assume her role in the next one.

Wren is hesitant to leave her home and move to the forest, but she must, as Lambert, the Sheriff's enforcer, is on the hunt for her after a slight. Wren soon learns the other members of the triad are Sparrow Little and Martin Scarlet, two very different men who are in competition for her affections.

Wren must draw on all her courage, strength, and endurance to assume her new role all while sorting out her conflicting feelings for the two men. When Sherwood's very existence is threatened by Lambert, can Wren inspire those she leads like her father did?

Strickland's use of accents is well done, making the story easy to understand and it doesn't slow down the reading. The plot engages the reader, keeping them turning the pages.

Wren, Sparrow, and Martin prove interesting characters. Wren struggles with her identity and her role in Sherwood, which includes choosing a man to wed – Sparrow or Martin. Sparrow is quiet, yet honorable to a fault. Martin is loud and too quick to rush into action.

The story contains several tasteful mainstream love scenes. The historical background gives way to an intriguing story. Strickland does a great job giving life to Sherwood Forest, making the setting its own unique character full of life, challenges, and magic.


While a part of a series, you don't have to read the other books in the series to understand the dynamic and back story of this one. I would definitely read other books in the series. "Daughter of Sherwood" will leave you wanting more.

Question for you: What's your favorite Robin Hood movie?  

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Super Book Blast for: Summertime Dream by Babette James #superbookblast #goddessfish



BLURB:

The Fourth of July is over, but for these summer lovers the fireworks have just begun.

An unexpected inheritance brings business consultant Christopher Gordon from Los Angeles to quaint Falk’s Bend. He’s carved a week from his demanding schedule to list his great-grandparents’ house for sale and explore his roots. However, disturbing family secrets and the sweet temptation of writer Margie Olsson derail his plans, challenging him to seize the elusive dream missing from his hectic life — love.

A recent brush with death shook Margie’s life, but not her dreams and she’s ready to move forward. Only, standing up to her loving, over-protective family isn’t easy. Helping Christopher explore the derelict mansion and unravel his grandmother’s mysterious past should be a harmless fun taste of independence. But when her experimental summer fling ignites into unexpected love, how can her small town dreams work with his big city life?


~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT: 

Margie laughed. “Of course, in my dreams it was a bit less rundown.”


“I’d imagine so. Interested in buying?”

“Oh, if only I could, I would in an instant. I’m sure the property alone is worth far more than I can afford.  It’s a huge piece of land. And the repairs and restoration...” Longing swelled. She sighed. Someone else would buy and live in her dream home.

Quiet fell between them for a while. Bees buzzed in the clover. Birds sang, chirped, and flitted. A hummingbird whizzed past. Two more ducks joined the first amid quiet bickering quacks. Dandelion fluff drifted by on an unfelt breeze.

A truck rattled down the lane, breaking the moment.

“Suppose we ought to head back...” Christopher turned, so close their arms brushed, but instead of retreating, he hesitated. Their eyes locked. Where dismay and frustration had filled his green eyes, want simmered. The heavy air electrified.

You need a change.

On a surge of bewildering crazy courage, she stretched up and kissed him. The brief brush of lips to lips left her shaken and her heart pounding, like she had  just come up for air.

His eyes widened in his serious, craggy face.

No, oh, no. Blowing out an unsteady breath, she pressed a hand to her stomach. She’d carried her day’s adventure one impetuous step too far. Her heroines were the daring part of her. She’d never even kissed on a first date before, and this wasn’t even a date.

Before the apology fluttering in her mind could break free, he cupped her cheek and touched his mouth down on hers.

GIVEAWAY

Babette will award a $10 Amazon GC to two (2) randomly drawn commenters during the tour, and a $10 Amazon GC to one (1) randomly drawn host.
Followw Babette on tour and leave a comment. the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. :) The tour dates can be found here: 



AUTHOR Bio and Links:


Babette James writes sweetly scorching contemporary romance and loves reading nail-biting tales with a satisfying happily ever after. When not dreaming up stories, she enjoys playing with new bread recipes and dabbling with paints. A teacher, she loves encouraging new readers and writers as they discover their growing abilities. Her class cheers when it’s time for their spelling test! Born in New Jersey and raised in Southern California, she’s had a life-long love of the desert and going down the shore. Babette now lives in New Jersey with her wonderfully patient husband and extremely spoiled cats.

Summertime Dream on Amazon.com Kindle: http://amzn.com/B00HJDS3E6

Summertime Dream on all other Amazon venues: http://viewbook.at/SummertimeDream

Website: http://babettejames.com/

 Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/ltvyP

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BabetteJames

Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/babette.james

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BabetteJamesAuthor

Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.com/e/B007KDJWV8

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/118275338266952747490

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/babettejames

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/babettejames/

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Untangle My Heart - Virtual Super Book Blast from Goddess Fish Promotions #superbookblast





BLURB FOR UNTANGLE MY HEART by Maria K. Alexander:

When her marriage ended in tragedy, Kate DiFrancesco rebuilt her life, but has never gotten over the pain of what she lost. Seeking the help of an ex-lover ignites feelings she’s promised never to have again. She’ll need to untangle herself from dangers in her past in order to break the hard shell around her heart.

Edward Weston has a lot to prove, both to his stuffy upper-crust British family, and to  himself. Working alongside Kate, a woman he had a casual relationship with, stirs unexpected feelings. Helping her family makes him realize what he's missing. For the first time, he wants more than a one-night stand.

When Kate is threatened, Edward must overcome feeling unworthy to protect the woman he loves and fight for the family he never thought he’d have.


ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:


“Good morning,” he said. “Ready to go?”

“I’m all set.” She swung her laptop bag over one shoulder and grabbed the handle of her suitcase with her opposite hand.

“I’ll take that,” Edward said, reaching for the suitcase.

“I have it,” she snapped and held firmly onto the handle. His old-fashioned ways sometimes annoyed her and today was one of those days. Why was he always trying to be nice to her? It would be easier to maintain her distance if he wasn’t so damned considerate. Damned British manners. “I don’t need your help.”

He raised an eyebrow at her outburst but let go of his hold on the suitcase. “Fine. I see someone didn’t get her coffee this morning.”

“Wrong. I had two cups.” And a restless night of sleep with alternating dreams of Edward and Lucas. Frustrated from tossing and turning all night, she’d gotten up at four and started baking.

“I made biscotti if you’d like some.” She handed him a white bakery bag, hoping her offering of food would compensate for her irritable mood.

He opened the bag and pulled one out. “Are they safe to eat or did you use arsenic instead of sugar?”

Rather than dignify him with an answer, she leaned forward and took a bite. It was still warm and the chocolate chips melted in her mouth. Edward’s gaze studied her mouth as she chewed and for a minute Kate thought he may take a nibble out of her.

“Perfectly safe. I swear,” she said after swallowing.

He popped the other half in his mouth. “Not bad.”

“Not bad, my ass,” Kate said.

“That’s pretty fine, too.”



GIVEAWAY:
Maria will award a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Visit this Rafflecopter link:  http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d514c76/

 The more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: 


AUTHOR BIO AND LINKS:



A romantic at heart, Maria K. Alexander spent hours as a young girl getting lost in and wishing to be one of the heroines in the stories she read. Books gave her the ability to go to another world where she loved meeting new characters, learning about their problems, and watching them fall in love.

Maria blogs and shares her writing journey with her critique partners at: http://thevioletfemmes.com.

When not writing, Maria loves to read, bake, downhill ski, visit the beach, and watch romantic comedies. Maria lives in New Jersey with her husband and children, and writes in her “spare” time between juggling a full-time job and her kids’ busy schedules.

 You can keep in touch with her at: http://mariakalexander.com.

Web Links

Website: http://mariakalexander.com

The Violet Femmes Blog: http://thevioletfemmes.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MKAlexander1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maria-K-Alexander-Author/201236689917319

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/mariakalexander

Amazon Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B00GVKRLOG

Wednesday, October 17, 2012


Book Review for: Across the Winds of Time
Written by: Bess McBride
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 1-60154-970-9
Avail: print/ebook
4 Stars

McBride pens an intriguing tale of love that resonates through time with "Across the Winds of Time." Molly Hamilton discovers an old Victorian house in Lilliam, Iowa and buys it. Upon inspecting the property she encounters one of the previous owners, Darius Ferguson. Dare she believe he's from 1880? Is he a ghost or a man? And why does she feel so strongly about him?

Set in the present day, Molly is driven by an unknown force to Lilliam, Iowa where she falls in love with an old Victorian house and buys it. To her surprise, a very handsome man, Darius Ferguson steps out of the winds of time. Their attraction is immediate, their love powerful. However, trying to get Darius to fit into the modern world is a challenge. As Molly uncovers secrets, there's a new set of questions. Does Molly belong to the future or the past? Will the winds of love bring Molly and Darius together or keep them apart?




McBride's writing style is easy to read. She paints lovely visuals of the setting with an easy brush, using a good economy of words.

The characters in the story shine. Molly is driven by that unknown force (love). She's sweet, kind, and caring. Darius is loyal, honorable, and noble. His speech is more old fashioned, Molly's more modern. Both characters have their quirks and nuances which make them so very human.

The paranormal ability that allows Darius and Molly to travel through time isn't clearly defined and its left for the reader to come up to their own conclusions. Did the power of love truly direct the winds of time? Was there a more naturalistic force at work? If anything, I would have preferred to have this element a bit more defined.

The story is sweet with Molly and Darius exchanging kisses and meaningful embraces. The romance in "Across the Winds of Time," promises to tug on the reader's heartstrings. I highly recommend this book.


Author Bess McBride's Giveaway:Bess will be giving away the winner's choice of a backlist eBook to one commenter at every stop, and a $25 Amazon gift card to one random commenter during the tour.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Goddess Fish Blog Tour Stop for Across the Winds of Time by Bess McBride




Across the Winds of Time
by Bess McBride

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

While on a genealogical research journey through the Midwest, Molly Hamilton impulsively buys a 100-year-old Victorian house in the middle of a cornfield, and falls in love with the house’s owner...the original owner, that is. Can he be a ghost? The handsome, intriguing attorney certainly feels solid—and somehow her soul knows she has always loved him.

Darius Ferguson has no idea how he has come to present-day Iowa. The last thing he knew, the year was 1880, and he had just buried his fiancée, who happens to look exactly like Molly. He cannot separate the two women in his heart—to him, they are one.

In spite of being drawn to him, Molly thinks Darius is unhinged. Darius wonders if he has joined his fiancée in purgatory. If time travel is possible, will love be enough to build a future together?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:
“How did you get in here?” I choked out. “Who are you?”

Darius stole a sideways glance over his shoulder to meet my eyes—or to see that indeed I did not have a gun aimed at him—before turning his face away.

“It is I, Molly. The same man you met two weeks ago. The same man you loved over a hundred years ago.”

“You’re nuts!” I spit out. “You’re not here. I’m just imagining things.” My knees were aching, and I shifted awkwardly in the tub to dive under the water again, keeping my neck twisted to watch him. I couldn’t stay in the bathtub all night. I felt so vulnerable—even if this was a hallucination...or a fantasy.

“So, since you’re not really here, you wouldn’t mind keeping your face turned away, so I can get out of the tub, would you?” My heart pounded, the rhythm matching the pounding in my head from smacking it on the edge of the tub. “Please?” I couldn’t keep the quiver from my voice.

“Certainly. It is not proper for me to be standing here at any rate. I simply came upstairs to see if you were here, and there you were—in my tub—a vision of bubbles and curly brown ringlets.”

I pressed a hand to my damp ponytail. A sudden warmth in the pit of my stomach contradicted the cold grip in my chest.

“Go away,” I pleaded. “I may want to daydream about you, but I don’t know that I want to actually see you.”

“As you wish, Molly.” He threw another quick glance over his shoulder, and his mouth curved into an embarrassed smile before he moved away.

I watched him disappear and panicked.

“Wait,” I shrieked. “Wait!”

“Yes, dear?” He backed up to the edge of the door again, still keeping his face averted.

“Wait for me downstairs. Don’t go yet. I’ll be right there.”

Darius inclined his head slightly to the side where I saw his profile, and I could have sighed when a single golden-brown curl fell forward in his face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~


AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Bess McBride made her first serious writing attempt when she was 14. She shut herself up in her bedroom one summer while obsessively working on a time travel/pirate novel set in the beloved Caribbean of her youth, but she wasn't able to hammer it out on a manual typewriter (oh yeah, she's that old) before it was time to go back to school. The draft of that novel has long since disappeared, but the story is still simmering within, and she will finish the adventure one day soon.

Bess was born in Aruba to American parents and lived in Venezuela until her family returned to the United States when she was 12. She couldn't fight the global travel bug within and joined the U.S. Air Force at 18 to "see the world." After 21 wonderful and fulfilling years traveling the world and gaining one beautiful daughter, she pursued her dream of finally getting a college education. With a license in mental health therapy, she worked with veterans and continues to work on behalf of veterans. She writes romantic suspense, contemporary, light paranormal/fantasy and time travel romances and currently has eight novels published. She can be contacted through her web site at http://www.bessmcbride.com.

GIVEAWAY: Bess will be giving away a $25 Amazon gift card to one random commenter during the tour. Drop a line here and let her know what you think of the excerpt.

I'd love to know: if you could travel through time, what time period/nation would you go? What historical person would you like to meet?

The more you comment on the tour, the better your chances of winning. Tour dates for "Across the Winds of Time" can be found here: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2012/08/book-blast-across-winds-of-time-by-bess.html

Find Bess at:

Links:
www.bessmcbride.com
http://willtravelforromance.blogspot.com/

Friday, June 17, 2011

Welcome Guest Author - Mariposa Cruz


STEPH: I don't know much about Howl. Can you tell me a little about it?

MARIPOSA: Personally I’m drawn to stories about people with real problems even those who live in alternate realities. As a single mother, Kate worries about raising her daughter and making ends meet. Then the fragile balance of her life is thrown into upheaval after a shapeshifter attack.

STEPH: Where did the inspiration for the story come from?

MARIPOSA: Growing up I loved watching monster movies on Saturday afternoons and I wanted to tell those stories from a woman’s perspective. I started writing Howl shortly after we moved to Reno from Northern California. I missed my California family and friends and my initial loneliness surfaced in both Kate and Jack in different ways.

STEPH: You know I grew up watching "Creature Double Feature" with all the monsters as a little girl in the 1970's too!

Where is the story set? How important was that to the story?

MARIPOSA: Howl is set in Haven, California, a fictional town based on some of my favorite towns in Mendocino County. The mysterious beauty of the area makes it a perfect setting for the supernatural.

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

MARIPOSA: I worked on Howl in between other stories and freelance writing projects so it’s tough for me to estimate the actual writing time.

STEPH: Cast the movie! Who are Kate and Jack?

MARIPOSA: Cameron Diaz’s wide-set blue eyes remind me of Kate. Gerard Butler with his intensity
would make a perfect Jack.

STEPH: What do you hope resonates with readers after they finish reading?

MARIPOSA: I hope that readers believe that they can reach their own HEA even if it means traveling
dark roads to get there.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

MARIPOSA: Not yet, but the Nook is definitely on my wish list!

STEPH: What's your writing space like?

MARIPOSA: I have two “writing spots”. I do most of my writing in my bedroom with a mug of tea at my elbow while my cat snoozes at the foot of my bed. Sometimes during lunch I’ll write in the car with a view of Mt. Rose.

STEPH: What summer movie are you looking forward to?

MARIPOSA: I can hardly wait for the final Harry Potter movie, though it will be bittersweet to see the series end.

STEPH: Any advice for aspiring writers?

MARIPOSA: Set reasonable writing goals for yourself and stay consistent. Even if it feels like all you’re doing is collecting rejections, you are far ahead of the folks who have all their stories in mind and nothing on paper.


Here’s a blurb:
As if Kate Owens doesn't have enough problems as a struggling single mom and paralegal, a brutal animal attack outside her office plunges her into turmoil. At work, she is attracted to her rescuer, Jack Walker, an attorney wary of commitment. Every morning after the attack she awakes drenched in blood beside the body of a mangled stray. Kate's days become a battle to maintain control while her nights are a disturbing blur of dreams. Will Kate's nightly madness harm her young daughter? Lone wolf attorney, Jack Walker understands the reason for his paralegal's exhaustion and haunted demeanor. Jack has pursued the beast since law school graduation and he knows the creature's relentless thirst for revenge.

Can Jack save Kate from her attacker and her own savage nature?

Here’s some reviews

4 Books from The Long and Short Reviews

“I love a good werewolf/vampire/ shape-shifter story and this one doesn’t disappoint. Ms. Cruz spins a story that kept me right in my seat throughout. The characters are rich with detail and I felt like I was a part of the tale, right alongside them. The secondary characters really enhanced the story as well. But more than that, the abundance of characters helped me see the group as more as a family.”

Bitten by Books

“I will definitely be looking out for more stories from this author.”


Howl is available at The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/-p-3921.html
I feature author interviews and other writing-related musings at my blog http://mariposacruz.blogspot.com

Friday, May 6, 2011

Welcome Guest Author - Mona Risk

Author Mona Risk


Hi all, I just want to welcome Author Mona Risk to the blog. I've read several of Mona's stories, including her latest, Prescription in Russian. I absolutely LOVED this heartwarming story. It's a true testiment to the healing power of love. Mona's here to share her memories of mother's day and talk about her novel.

Enjoy!
Steph

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

Mother’s Day will be different and sad without my mother who left us last September. Still it’s a time to celebrate the special attentions all mothers receive on that day. I always smile with a happy feeling when I open my grandchildren’s cards or arrange in a vase my children’s flowers.

I will never forget my mother’s squeal after she read the last page of my first manuscript and came to me with open-arms saying: Bravo, I’m proud of you.

Two of my books Rx FOR TRUST and RX IN RUSSIAN have a mother among the characters. For this special secondary character I borrowed the expressions and reactions of both my mother and mother-in-law, two strong women who never shied of talking their minds and taking action to help others. They both made a difference in their communities.

With a pinch in my heart, I recall our conversations and the stories they told me. I treasure the compliments they gave me, and wish I paid more attention to the advice, orders or critiques they showered me with when we didn’t agreed. Willy-nilly I am walking in their shoes now when I try to advise my daughter on how to raise her kids, cook my recipes or dress the right way—my way.

Mona's Mom

The mothers in my books are a tribute of love to both my mother and my mother-in-law who unfortunately never had a chance to read these two books.

Rx FOR TRUST was dedicated to Mom and I made sure she was able to read the dedication:
This book is dedicated to my mother who has been a mentor, a friend and a shining example of
courage and perseverance.

To celebrate Mother’s Day, here are the blurb and an excerpt—an exchange between the hero and his meddling mother—from my recent release, Rx IN RUSSIAN, about .

A Blurb from my latest book, Rx IN RUSSIAN
Fyodor Vassilov is a Russian widower, surgeon and officer. Duty demands he provide a mother to his four little boys and marry a woman who loves children and a big family.


Jillian Burton is an American pediatrician on a mission to improve medical conditions in Belarus.
She blames herself and her ex-husband for their son’s death, and has lost her illusions about men and marriage.

When they work together for six months in his hospital, their fascination with one another shocks them both. Can attraction and love overcome guilt, duty, and a clash of cultures?

“Mona Risk writes heroes with heart, heroines with spunk in stories and settings that are simply unforgettable!" -- Roxanne St. Claire, Killer Curves, NY Bestseller.
“Risk's writing is crisp and easy to read, engaging the reader on the first page. What makes "Prescription in Russian" shine is the rich characterization… The story is sophisticated for romance readers and the love scene is tasteful, evoking a rich, sensual chemistry that Jillian and Fyodor share. Prescription in Russian is a lush, international contemporary romance you can't put down.”--Stephanie Burkhart


Excerpt:

Fyodor, make up your mind.”
“About what?”

“Which one do you prefer? Sofia or Jillian? They are both pretty, educated, and kind. Which one do you want to marry?”
He exhaled his exasperation. “Mama, I can’t choose a wife the way I decide between a blue shirt and a green one.”


“I understand. But you can’t continue to procrastinate. The children need a mother.”

“I know, but right now, they have a wonderful babushka.” He bent and kissed her forehead. “Give me time, Mama.”

“You have had plenty of time so far. We have visited Sofia and her mother twice. Soon I will have to reciprocate the invitation. The girl adores you. She loves children and wants a big family. She’s been very caring toward the boys.”

Fyodor couldn’t help rolling his eyes. Sofia had made it obvious enough she wanted to marry him, and she’d overwhelmed his sons with attention, compliments, and advice. His independent Andrei had already declared he didn’t like to be cuddled like a baby.

“I’m not sure Sofia is the right one for me or the kids.”

“I see.” She gave him a long look and sighed. “It’s the American doctor you like. She is a foreigner but a good woman. I like her too.”

“Mama, please, don’t—”
“Do something for God’s love.”

Easier said than done. His body throbbed from the passion of their kiss, but how could he ignore Jillian’s subsequent stiffness and withdrawal? After two months at Solidarity Hospital, she was still an enigma. “She will be leaving in four months.” A simple answer that didn’t explain the real problem but should stop this frustrating conversation with his mother.

“So what?” Mama’s narrowed eyes should have warned him. “Tell her you are interested. Tell her you want to get married. You met Elena and married her in two months.”

Nothing would distract his mother from her favorite goal: to see him married. Not even the painful memories.

A grumble escaped him. As if anyone could ever compare his helpless and fragile Elena to the independent, self-sufficient American doctor who traveled the world on her own.

BABIES IN THE BARGAIN winner of 2009 Best Romance Novel at Preditors & Editors and winner of 2009 Best Contemporary Romance at Readers Favorite.

Rx FOR TRUST, winner of 2010 Best Contemporary Romance at Readers Favorite and 2011 EPICON.

Rx IN RUSSIAN just released by TWRP.
Mona’s books are all available at amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_9?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=mona+risk&sprefix=mona+risk

http://www.monarisk.com
http://www.monarisk.blogspot.com

Friday, April 23, 2010

Welcome Guest Author - Celia Yeary


Celia Yeary is a friend of mine from the Book Spa Friends Group who enjoys writing westerns. Celia lives in Texas and she's here today to talk about her book, "Texas Blue." Welcome Celia!

BLURB FOR TEXAS BLUE:

When Buck Cameron finally found Marilee Weston and her young daughter, he believed the pretty, young woman did not fit the character description he was given. The County Judge back home said she was not fit to raise the child, who he claimed was his. Now Buck faced a dilemma. Should he disobey orders and rescue both of them from isolation? He would, because there wasn’t enough money in the world to exchange for a child. All he had to do was convince Marilee of his good intentions—she and her daughter would safe be with him in Nacogdoches.

Rejected and abandoned by her father, Marilee Weston let the pain of betrayal make her strong. Now, she needed a way out of the forest, where she had lived for five years. But the towering pines and fear of the unknown imprisoned her, and loneliness and heartbreak suffocated her. How could she find a new life for herself and young daughter? She couldn’t. Not without help. But would this alluring stranger free her, or prove to be even more dangerous?



BIO:
Celia Yeary is a seventh-generation Texan, and her life revolves around family and friends—and writing. San Marcos has been her home for thirty-five years. She has written three romance novels for a small press, essays for Texas Co-op Power magazine, and several different topics for her weekly blog. She also writes women’s fiction and hopes a publisher comes along who likes these stories, too.
The author is a former science teacher, graduate of Texas Tech University and Texas State, mother of two, grandmother of three, and wife of a wonderful, supportive Texan. Celia and her husband enjoy traveling, and both are involved in their church, the community, and the university as retired faculty.

celiayeary@yahoo.com
www.celiayeary.com
www.celiayeary.blogspot.com


EXCERPT-TEXAS BLUE:

At this, he turned on the step to look up at her with his eyes narrowed. “And we had one hell of a night, didn’t we? Or maybe you didn’t. Now that I think on it, that didn’t make any impression on you. You know what it feels like, Marilee, to be made a fool? It hurts. Gut-level pain. Stupidly, I honestly thought you wanted me just like I wanted you. I’d fallen so in love with you, I firmly believed I could make you love me, too. Then what did you do? Slapped me right down from my lofty feelings.”

“Buck, I…”

“Don’t placate, me, Marilee. I got the message, loud and clear. Finally. You were right. I do have a thick skull. Takes me a while to see the real picture.”

His words struck deep, into her soul. Now, she realized how much he truly loved her, and she knew in her heart, he could overlook all of her shortcomings. He started to rise, and gently, she placed her hand on his arm to keep him in place.

“My darling,” she whispered. She felt his muscles tense. “Please forgive me. I am undoubtedly the most stupid woman on the face of the earth. Now, you have to answer this question.”

With a disbelieving look, he stared at her. She heard him breath slowly and deeply. Still as stone, he looked into her eyes and waited.

“I have six dollars saved. I have a daughter, soon to be five. I have a few clothes, but they’re all castoffs. That’s all that I have in this world. Except for one more thing. I have so much love for you, I will go anywhere with you, that is, if you still want me. And I…”

He cut her words off with a hard kiss, an open-mouthed, devouring kiss. He pulled her up, around the church, and between two Rose of Sharon bushes. He pushed her against the clapboard siding of the building, placed his hands flat on the wall, and pressed his body into hers.

“Damn, honey. You’ve about killed me.”

Texas Blue is available at Amazon for KINDLE: http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Blue-ebook/dp/B00365FIRG

Wild Rose Press: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/celia-yeary-m-366.html

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Tuesday's Book Shelf - What I'm Reading


TIES THAT BIND is by author Keena Kincaid and the book is published through "The Wild Rose Press." It's also available on ebook, but I have it in print. I enjoy reading romance, which this book is, and "The Wild Rose Press" has it listed in their Faery Line since it involves "light" magic.

So why am I reading this book? Because I loved the first book, Anam Cara by Keena. In that book, Bran ap Owen came to Carlisle looking for his soulmate, Liz. He had to make things right for them so they could finally be happy. His brother, Aeden, was tied into the "making things" right aspect. In that book, Aedan, and Liza's daughter, Tess, have a "first love" love affair, but are seperated when the book ends.

Ties that Bind is the sequel and tells Aedan and Tess's story. I've been looking forward to reading this book since it came out.

What I enjoyed about Anam Cara is that it's set in an historical setting, England in the 1160s during the time of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitane. Aeden and Bran are mistrals. There's a also a nice dose of "magic" laced into the storyline. The clan from Duncarouch (sp?) are Sidhe and have magical abilities. Both Bran and Aedan have magical ablities. Lace in a little of magic, a little history, and a compelling love story and I'm hooked.

In "Ties That Bind," Aedan is sent to Carlisle to solve a mystery and encounters Tess. The chemistry between them is undenable to everyone around them. They try to deny it themselves, but I doubt they won't get far. There's also intrigue as to who fathered "Daz," the boy that Aedan looks after.

Here's a blurb for the book:
Out of place in the Plantagenet court, minstrel AEDAN ap OWEN misuses his Sidhe gifts for the king's dark business. Sent north to investigate rumors of treason and dispatch the troublemakers, Aedan discovers someone is murdering monks and stealing saints’ relics. And all clues point to Carlisle.

TESS, LADY of BRIDSWELL, refuses to rekindle her relationship with Aedan. She knows his reputation as a secret stealer—and she has a secret that must be kept. But her resolve falters when her uncle promises her hand to a man she despises and Aedan hounds her steps.

A would-be king uses the stolen relics to amplify his power, wielding it like a weapon. Meeting the traitor's magic with magic will prevent war, but it will also destroy Aedan’s chance to show Tess he has at last mastered the temptation of the ancient wisdom. Can Aedan renounce his magic to win Tess' heart anew or will he choose magic over love?


You can find Keena on the web at: http://www.keenakincaid.com if you want to check her out.