Category Archives: Candy Hearts

February 13, 2016 · 10:19 am

My Sexy Valentine #128

mysexySat

Readers, please visit  Author Central where we’ll be sharing even more from our authors besides Saturday’s snippets. We’d love to have each and every one of you there as we’re starting new things this month with fun and prizes along the way.

This week’s theme is My Sexy Valentine and this theme needs no explanation…show us the most romantic, the most frustrating or the most exhilarating sexy Valentine’s Day ever between two lovers…or maybe even between frenemies.

Share your story’s  most fabulous moments with some very sexy, hot characters in a love that’s destined to last forever, please share them with us…share all those sexy moments that you have between your characters even if your story doesn’t exactly fit the theme this week…remember every relationship is important!

Sexy can be anything, such as romantic moments like walks on the beach, a home cooked meal or even in another galaxy. It could be two lovers here on Earth dreaming about the day where they go on a magical vacation to another planet. Or staying right here at one of those wonderful places we can find in our own world.

Readers want to see those characters, the ones who can’t get enough of each other as well as ones who are fighting their way back to being part of the world once again. These are the types of characters they can’t forget, the one they want to take home and keep forever. Readers love the kisses, the looks or touch of each and every one of our characters.

Sexy has nothing to do with looks or status or even wealth. It doesn’t demand perfection and it isn’t pretentious but it does make us want to read those books.

We know that everyone has their own idea of sexy and we all love sexy!

Valentine’s day is tomorrow and my new release 3 WISHES takes place on that wonderful day devoted to love. My heroine, Chloe, isn’t oo sure about the availability status of the guy she’s just met, but she does know she wants to spend Valentine’s day – which also happens to be her 30th birthday – with him, preferably naked and horizontal. Here’s a little sumthin‘ sumthin‘ of their interaction:

His grin spread, and I swear my girlie parts quivered.

Quivered.

When he came toward me, eating up the floor with his long stride, a hot bead of awareness burst from somewhere deep, deep down inside me.

When he was within smelling distance—and have I mentioned how amazing he smelled—he stopped, his gaze lasered on my face.

“Your eyes are stunning,” he said, his voice soft, almost reverential.

“Says the man with the exact same eyes,” I spit out before thinking.

Heat flew up my face, and I couldn’t do anything to stop it. I heard his swift inhalation, and I swear my knees went wobbly.

3 WISHES perf5.000x8.000.indd

Valentine’s Day is chocolatier Chloe San Valentino’s favorite day of the year. Not only is it the busiest day in her candy shop, Caramelle de Chloe, but it’s also her birthday. Chloe’s got a birthday wish list for the perfect man she pulls out every year: he’d fall in love with her in a heartbeat, he’d be someone who cares about people, and he’d have one blue eye and one green eye, just like her. So far, Chloe’s fantasy man hasn’t materialized, despite the matchmaking efforts of her big, close-knit Italian family. But this year for her big 3-0 birthday, she just might get her three wishes.

Available from:  Amazon//   The Wild Rose Press //Nook//

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Filed under 3 Wishes, Author, Candy Hearts, Contemporary Romance, love, My Sexy Saturday, Romance, Romance Books, Strong Women, The Wild Rose Press, WIld Rose Press AUthor

February 11, 2016 · 10:07 am

A visit with Candy Hearts author C.J. Fosdick

Today, for my final CandyHearts installment, I’m introducing you to author C.J.Fosdick. CJ was nice enough to agree to be interviewed by me and suffer through my long list of questions! Stick around because after the interview she’s got alittle sumthin’ sumthin; for your from her Candy Hearts release, HOT STUFF.

Here’s C.J.

CJ – The Writer 

cj fosdick

  1. What drives you to write? Perspiration, Inspiration and Deadlines! When I’m not hit by holidays and other distractions, I “drive” with my laptop. With an empty nest and horse barn now, I hope to become a writing tornado, mobilized by readers who loved my debut novel and can’t wait for the sequel! Deadlines are also a good fire starter. Working with WR editors between assignments from a local magazine always brings the deadline deal home!
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do your write, and why? Historicals so far. I may have a reincarnated soul; I’ve always been curious about the past and there’s never a shortage of stories to research about any era. All costume dramas—and even living history sites—grab and inspire me. We can learn so much from the resourceful lives and crisis’s our ancestors faced. But stopping at one genre is like eating only potatoes at every meal. I also love writing romantic comedy and suspense. ALL my books will have some history/mystery/romance and a thread of humor in them—multi genres to be sure.
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do you read, and why? Reading historicals is like armchair time travel. International settings, colorful dramas, rich dialects always make me think about our ancestors, how resourceful and tough they were with a lot less than we have, and how their values relate to us today. As a teen, I read a lot of mysteries and suspense and later became a fan of Robin Cook, Anne Rice and Sue Grafton’s books. I also loved romances by the late Kathleen Woodiwiss. Today I’ll read romantic suspense and contemporary romance if it isn’t too dark and serious.
  1. What’s your writing schedule? Do you write every day? In small undisciplined ways, yes. Every email, tweet, newsletter or Facebook post is an exercise in writing. When I’m rolling with my new novel, I am in another writing zone entirely. I can write for 8 hours without moving much more than my fingers. I might even skip eating if the hubster didn’t fix me snacks and protein drinks.
  1. Give us a glimpse of the surroundings where you write. I write on my laptop in a far corner of the living room by large windows with an outside view on two sides. My comfy upholstered wing rocker has been in the family for nearly 50 years. It’s been recovered twice. Once, after I was shocked to learn my children referred to it as “the booger chair.” Let your imagination run!
  1. Are you the kind of writer who needs total quiet to compose, or are you able to filter out the typical sounds of the day and use your tunnelvision? I concentrate better with few distractions, and hate phone interruptions. We live in a super-insulated house surrounded by acres of woods so we don’t even hear wind or rain.
  1. Do you listen to music while you write, and if so, what kind? I love a background of instrumental easy listening, Enya, or light classical with the volume low. There are also some great movie soundtracks that curry memories…and envy. I can especially imagine my sweeping historicals with that kind of visualization, someday. Grin.
  1. How did you come up with the plotline/idea for your current WIP? I fell in love with Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series a few years ago. Her unique time-travel historic theme has to resound with history buffs, and the robust romance of two very strong characters is a multi-genre feast. Her writing is well-researched, intelligent and often lyrical. Time-travel is a great way to compare civilizations and provide instant conflict. I became more of a Gabaldon fan after meeting Diana twice at Historical Writer Conferences, and found her very accessible. She was touched when I put her in my novel’s dedication. She even offered to read for me when I developed laryngitis at the Denver Conference last June.
  1. Which comes first for you – character or plot? And why? Depends on the romance. With a historical or mystery, plot becomes naturally paramount. With a contemporary, a strong character has to carry the story. Strong characters, however, seem to take over my plots and sometimes even wake me up at night with their conversations. (I keep a notepad and pen at my bedside.)
  1. What 3 words describe you, the writer? Curious, Creative, Capricious.

 

CJ – The Person 

 Tell us one unusual thing about yourself – not related to writing! I am passionate about horses and most animals. We had horses for years that my daughters competed with and over 15 summers, I gave riding lessons to 60 kids. We even took in rescue horses, dogs, cats, and trained two wild Mustangs. I’m currently training dozens of wild deer with a bell and cracked corn. Can’t get enough pictures and videos of them at our feeding stations twenty feet from our kitchen window!

  1. Who was your first love and what age were you? The neighborhood paper boy. Both of us were 15.
  2. If you could relive one day, which one would it be? Think GROUNDHOG DAY, the movie for this one – you’ll have to live it over and over and… I usually look forward to the celebration of every new day. It would be fun, however, to take my best day writing and live that over and over—if it didn’t produce the same manuscript.
  3. Do you like a guy in boxers, briefs, or commando? I’ll take a tall, trim, thoughtful guy any day, in any of the three.
  4. If you had to give up one necessary-can’t-live-without-it beauty item, what would it be? I can do without the “dewy” look! Mascara makes my eyes water.
  5. What three words describe you, the person? Fun, Emotional, Creative.
  6. If you could sing a song with Jimmy Fallon, what would it be? “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” (No really, this IS an old song from a classic Fred Astaire movie!)
  7. If you could hang out with any literary character from any book penned at any time line, who would it be, why, and what would you do together? Scarlett O’Hara and we would sow field oats instead of cotton and redecorate Tara after the Civil War—after convincing Rhett Butler to pay for it all.

 

Bonus round–I love the Actor’s Studio show on Bravo, so this is my version of it:

  1. Favorite sound? Babies laughing or birds chirping. Same thing?
  2. Least favorite sound? Whiny, jabboring people—of all ages.
  3. Best song every written — A tie: John Lennon’s “Imagine” or Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You.”
  4. Worst song ever written — Was “Ninety-nine Bottles of Beer on the Wall” even written down?
  5. Favorite actor and actress—Right now it is Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe from the Starz Outlander series. But Aiden Turner gives Sam competition in the wonderful PBS series, Poldark.
  6. Who would you want to be for 1 day and why? ( It can be anyone living or dead) I’d love to be Diana G. to get tips on how an international best-selling author (26 million books) balances fame, family and…gets anywhere on time.
  7. What turns you on? Besides a great review, a movie or book with a great love scene.
  8. What turns you off? Negative, unkind, sarcastic people.
  9. Give me the worst 5 words ever heard on a first date—Want to meet my mother?
  10. What’s your version of a perfect day? Riding bareback on my late white Arabian on a sandy beach with turquoise water, followed by a spa massage package and a seafood dinner at a seaside café with either Aidan or Sam! All with the blessing of my dear hubby. Oh wait, that was my laughing-gas-fantasy when I got a root canal!

Anything Else?: I knew when Rhonda announced the premise for the Candy Heart line, I HAD to have the slogan, “Hot Stuff” to play with the double meaning. This was where character and plot coincide. The rookie cop who comes to investigate a simple theft (hot stuff), turns out to be pretty hot himself, in the eyes of a klutzy, single slogan writer with a brother who has Asperger’s and a penchant for “collecting” neighborhood lawn statuary. I have a couple friends with autistic sons who handle the syndrome with amazing grace and a balance of humor. Inspiration for my heroine and her cookie-bribing grandmother.

HOT STUFF

Blurb:

hot stuff

Hot Stuff takes on double meaning when klutzy Kate is faced with rookie cop Dallas looking for a stolen lawn statue. In her quiet, crime-free Wisconsin village, Kate has her hands full writing slogans for candy hearts and keeping her kleptomaniac brother with Asperger’s Syndrome inside the law. Even her grandmother’s famous snickerdoodle cookies can’t ameliorate the crime when a stolen lawn statue turns out to be a drug dispenser. Will Kate rise above her concern of what Dallas’s uniform represents and admit the charming Texas rookie is the man of her dreams?

Excerpt

“Over the years, we’ve learned some lawn décor Evan brought home belonged to that category you call a 10-99…er…some might call it this.” He finally smiled when I pulled a handful of candy hearts from my pocket and singled out the one that read Hot Stuff.

“Billington knows about all this?”

“Certainly. Our neighbors are aware of this, too. When something goes missing, they usually show up here first to see if it’s planted in his garden. If they can identify it, we simply have a custody exchange, then mollify my brother with a trip to a local garden shop for some kind of a replacement.” I popped a candy heart into my mouth and offered him one after flicking a strand of cat fur off the KissMe heart.

He screwed up his face, clearing his throat. “Valentine candy in July?”

“I won a six-month supply after writing new imprints for the company. The candy has a long shelf life,” I added.

He declined my offer.

“Bite Me.”

“Ma’am?”

“That was one of my slogans. The candy boss wanted something modern. You Know was another one. Kids today can’t get through a sentence without sprinkling it with ‘you know’.”

He studied me with a lopsided grin. “Why didn’t Billington tell me all this?”

“I don’t think he knows I write slogans and ads.”

He pulled on his ear. “I mean about your brother stealing yard ornaments.”

“Oh well, I suspect Evan’s fancy may be an inside joke at the precinct.”

Buy Links:   The WIld Rose Press   Amazon

 

AUTHOR BIO:

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, CJ Fosdick has freelanced for over 30 years, writing stories and articles for local and national publications. She has stories published in three anthologies, including Minnesota’s Blossoms & Blizzards. Her debut novel is The Accidental Wife published in 2015. She pursues her novel dreams on a wooded country hilltop in Rochester, MN, with husband, family, and a menagerie of wild and domestic animals. Follow her on…

Fin CJ Here:  Website //Newsletter // Twitter // Facebook // Goodreads //

 

 

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February 10, 2016 · 9:45 am

The final Candy Hearts Books are here!

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Oh. My. Goodness! Today is the last day of new releases for the Candy Hearts Romance Series! I can’t believe we’ve releases all 40  into the reading-sphere. I’m pleased to introduce you to today’s authors: Veronica Lynch, C.J. Fosdick, Beverly Breton and Tamrie Foxtail and their Candy Hearts books FOR KEEPS, HOT STUFF, I’M SURE, and ALL MINE. And don’t forget – you’ve got one final chance at winning a KINDLE FIRE, courtesy of THE WILD ROSE PRESS. Details are at the end of this blog. Here are your final CH books!

FOR KEEPS by Veronica Lynch

Blurb

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Meghan Muldoon is at a crossroads: struggling to balance the demands of a high stress vocation as an advocate for victims of violence and her feelings for Keenan Rossi, a man who wants to make their relationship permanent.

On Valentine’s Day, a series of routine crises force Meg to question staying in a profession which fulfills her both professionally and spiritually–or devoting the rest of her life to the one person who completes her.

Which one is For Keeps?

Excerpt:

He quirked one heavy brow and grinned. “There’s a half bottle of wine left from dinner the other night. Would you like a glass?”

Meg loved the cool sensation of crisp sheets against her skin as much as the feel of him naked and ready between her thighs. “Better not. I’m on first call tonight.”

That response cast an unfortunate pall over the festivities.

“You take call too damn often,” he muttered. “If you’d quit that job and marry me, like I’ve asked at least a million times, we could—”

Here we go again. She resisted the urge to yawn as he recited from the first chapter of the book Whose Job is More Important, a title they’d revisited more than once after taking the next step in their once strictly professional relationship.

Ignoring the thorny topic of holy wedlock, again, Meg focused on one of the lesser conflicts that too often reared its ugly head. “I’ve told you before, Keenan. Call is taken on a rotating basis among the staff. Tonight is my turn.”

He rose up on one elbow to glower at her, using what she termed his bad cop persona. “Let me remind you of your position at that zoo known as Crime Victim Services. You are the boss. And bosses shouldn’t take call on any night of the week.”

Per usual, her significant other of little over a year insisted on having the last word. As much as she wanted an end to the discussion—so that they could get on with the entertainment portion of the evening—she wasn’t about to give in and have him think he’d won.

“You take call. On a fairly regular basis.”

“Not as regularly as you.”

That put her neck up enough to snipe back. “Two nights ago, that wasn’t me sitting alone in a darkened movie theater while Tom Cruise felt his need for speed?”

“Now, Meghan…”

Buy Links: The WIld Rose Press    Amazon

Bio:veronica

Veronica Lynch spent her professional life working with and advocating for women in need. She spends her time in Western New York, enjoying her family and hobbies.About Veronica:

FInd Veronica here: Website 

Read my review of  For Keeps Here

 

HOT STUFF by C.J. Fosdick

Blurb

hot stuff

Hot Stuff takes on double meaning when klutzy Kate is faced with rookie cop Dallas looking for a stolen lawn statue. In her quiet, crime-free Wisconsin village, Kate has her hands full writing slogans for candy hearts and keeping her kleptomaniac brother with Asperger’s Syndrome inside the law. Even her grandmother’s famous Snickerdoodle cookies can’t ameliorate the crime when a stolen lawn statue turns out to be a drug dispenser. Will Kate rise above her concern of what Dallas’s uniform represents and admit the charming Texas rookie is the man of her dreams?

EXCERPT:

“Over the years, we’ve learned some lawn décor Evan brought home belonged to that category you call a 10-99…er…some might call it this.” He finally smiled when I pulled a handful of candy hearts from my pocket and singled out the one that read Hot Stuff.

“Billington knows about all this?”

“Certainly. Our neighbors are aware of this, too. When something goes missing, they usually show up here first to see if it’s planted in his garden. If they can identify it, we simply have a custody exchange, then mollify my brother with a trip to a local garden shop for some kind of a replacement.” I popped a candy heart into my mouth and offered him one after flicking a strand of cat fur off the KissMe heart.

He screwed up his face, clearing his throat. “Valentine candy in July?”

“I won a six-month supply after writing new imprints for the company. The candy has a long shelf life,” I added.

He declined my offer.

   “Bite Me.”

“Ma’am?”

“That was one of my slogans. The candy boss wanted something modern. You Know was another one. Kids today can’t get through a sentence without sprinkling it with ‘you know’.”

He studied me with a lopsided grin. “Why didn’t Billington tell me all this?”

“I don’t think he knows I write slogans and ads.”

He pulled on his ear. “I mean about your brother stealing yard ornaments.”

“Oh well, I suspect Evan’s fancy may be an inside joke at the precinct.”

Buy Links:   Amazon   WILD ROSE PRESS

About C.J.cj fosdick

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, CJ Fosdick has freelanced for over 30 years, writing stories and articles for local and national publications. She has stories published in three anthologies, including Minnesota’s Blossoms & Blizzards. Her debut novel, The Accidental Wife published in 2015, evolved from an award-winning short story. She pursues her novel dreams on a wooded country hilltop in Rochester, MN, with husband, family, and a menagerie of wild and domestic animals.

Find C.J. Here: Website

 

I’M SURE by Beverly Breton

Blurb

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During the day, Megan surrounds herself with water lilies and goldfish in the ponds she creates. At night, memories of her lying ex-boyfriend are a reminder she can never again trust a man.

Jason embraces his career as paramedic firefighter, even though ugly experience declares his profession a greedy mistress. During quiet nights at the station, he wonders if this bachelor existence is all he’ll ever know.

Then Jason meets Megan and sparks fly, chased by flashes of anger when Jason, battling a raging apartment fire, stands up Megan on their first date. Is St. Valentine powerful enough to bring these two strong-willed people together?

Excerpt:

Jason reaches over the table and takes my hand in his.

Much as I try scrubbing at the dirt, my nails are almost never 100% clean, and I’ve got a long scratch across my knuckles. And anyhow, in the middle of a work day, that’s part of who I am.

He turns my hand palm up and runs his finger across the calluses.

My heart skitters a beat at the feel of his hands cradling mine. His touch exudes caring. Imagining him tending a person in distress is easy.

Need I say it? I like the feel of him touching me. The world is charmingly in order right here, right now. But what is he doing? “Is something wrong with my hand?”

“Every time I see you, you’re in the water. And you’re the odd duck. I was just seeing”—he turns his head to examine my palm, his carved cheeks in profile—“if there’s a web between your fingers…”

Bemusement laces his tone. “Like a Labrador retriever?” I retort, stifling the urge to flex my fingers; I don’t want him to let my hand go.

He laughs and releases my hand. “My favorite animal. But a dog? No. That’s not what you bring to mind.”

His grin is so open, so easy, I decide to divulge something I’ve never told anyone. “I did wish for scales when I was younger. I thought it would be cool to be a mermaid.”

Buy Links   Amazon   The WIld Rose press

About Beverly:bev betton

Beverly Breton is an eternal fan of the happy ending, and a sucker for any book that grabs the reader through characterization and emotion. A career non-fiction writer and editor, Beverly has written articles and personal essays for newspapers and magazines across the country, and has taught college writing at the undergraduate and graduate level. She now writes romantic short stories, and has garnered such awards as Night Owl Reviews Top Pick and You Gotta Read Reviews highest rating You Gotta ReadFive Stars. She is also a professional floral designer, and her garden nursery experience and love of plants is fondly woven into her latest short story I’m Sure featuring a pond garden designer and the emergency responder who falls for this fiery-haired near-mermaid when he discovers her up to her thighs in water one February morning.
FInd Beverly here: Website

Read me review of I’M SURE here:

ALL MINE by Tamrie Foxtail

Blurb:

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For nearly a decade, Maggie has put the needs of her younger siblings ahead of her own. Now she’s willing to accept a marriage without passion in order to protect her brother, but fate has a wicked sense of humor. On the eve of her wedding, Maggie meets the man of her dreams.

When Shamus loses a bet, the penalty is a blind date. Shamus is prepared to endure a long, boring night; the last thing he expects is to find the woman who can bring his heart back to life.

But Maggie is keeping secrets–and her engagement is only one of them.

Excerpt:

“And we are thirty seconds from the New Year,” the TV announced.

Shamus stood in front of Maggie, drawing her to her feet.

“Twenty seconds!”

His dark blue eyes appeared almost indigo in the soft light of the bar.

“Ten seconds!”

“Nine…eight…”

He cupped her face in his hands.

“Five…four…”

I can’t kiss him. I’m engaged.

As the old year closed and the new one began, Shamus touched his lips to hers. The noise surrounding them faded.

The warmth of his callused hands framed her face. His rum and coke flavored kiss began with a tenderness that stole the breath from her lungs. As his kiss grew in intensity, the warm swirls that had danced in her blood all night grew as well, reaching a lava hot stage within seconds.

When Maggie was fifteen, her mother told her about the first time she kissed Maggie’s father. “Once in your life,” her mother said, “there’s a kiss that shatters everything you thought you knew and changes the direction of your life.”

She understood now. Maggie pressed her fingers to her lips in a fruitless attempt to hold onto the sweetest kiss of her life. Tears strangled her heart at the realization that it was also the most bitter, since it could only mean farewell.

Buy Links:  The WIld Rose Press   Amazon

About Tamrie:

I’m married to real-life romance hero who, despite being a master in martial arts and having nearly thirty years in law enforcement, insists that my mind is a very scary place. I’m a mother and grandmother and I thank my own mother for giving me a love of reading. I have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I lived in the Pacific Northwest and on the Gulf Coast before following my husband to Oklahoma.

 

Don’t forget to enter the WILD ROSE PRESS RAFFLECOPTER for a chance to win a KINDLE FIRE. CLink on the “http://link below

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February 9, 2016 · 9:40 am

A Visit with Candy Hearts author Nancy Fraser

Today I’ve got Wild Rose Press and Candy Hearts author NANCY FRASER visiting. Her new CH release ONLY YOURS released yesterday and it’s a goodie. Stick around after her interview to read a little sumthin’ sumthin’ from it. Guaranteed you’ll head over to WRP to buy it!!

Here’s Nancy

nancy

Nancy, The Writer 

 

  1. What drives you to write? The short answer: I’m not good a much else (creatively at least). I don’t knit or play an instrument. I’m lucky if I can draw a straight line with a ruler. So, writing it is. Also, it might have something to do with my love of all things books.
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do your write, and why?I write in multiple genres. Only Yours is my twenty-fourth book and among those I’ve done historical (post-Civil War), erotic romance, vintage romance, 1920’s historical, and even a time travel/paranormal. I know a lot of publishers say you should concentrate on one genre to build your brand. However, I find bouncing between the different styles keeps my writing fresh and introduces me to all types of readers.
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do you read, and why? LOL. At the moment I’m doing something I’ve never done before, reading across multiple genres one after the other. I’m almost done with the entire Candy Hearts series and have enjoyed everything from sweet to steamy, aliens, magical creatures and everything in between. When NOT reading an entire series, I’m usually drawn to unusual historical time periods (such as the 20s, 30s and 40s).
  1. What’s your writing schedule? Do you write every day? I wish. I have a “schedule” that has me writing every week day and editing on the weekend. However, I’m also within 20 minutes driving distance of both sons and five grandchildren, so my well-crafted schedule might be pretty but not as accurate as I’d like.
  1. Give us a glimpse of the surroundings where you write. Separate room? In the kitchen? At the dining room table? From when I first started writing back in the early 90s and up until 2014, I’d always stolen some space in another room in my home. When I retired from working in the outside world at the end of 2013, I promised myself I’d create an office. So, I moved to a larger condo and used the extra bedroom to make myself a dedicated writing space and I love it.
  1. Are you the kind of writer who needs total quiet to compose, or are you able to filter out the typical sounds of the day and use your tunnel vision? When I’m writing a scene/chapter, I prefer to do it in solitude. I can create notes, either long hand or on the computer, with company around. When my grandchildren are visiting (sometimes overnight), the only writing I seem to get done is social media and the occasional story I write with them.
  1. Do you listen to music while you write, and if so, what kind? If not, why not? No, not really. If I happen to sit down at the computer with the radio playing, it’s usually on a classic rock station. However, I don’t go to the trouble of playing dedicated music.
  1. How did you come up with the plotline/idea for your current WIP? My Candy Hearts book was actually taken from real life and based on my late cousin, Wanda. The idea of being almost engaged to your college sweetheart but then being overtly attracted to his older brother came directly from her life.
  1. Which comes first for you – character or plot? And why? The plot. Then, I mold the characters to fit. Of course, being headstrong, they don’t always go along with what I want, but I’m adaptable.
  1. What 3 words describes you, the writer? Persistent, flexible and award-winning (although this last one might be considered two words).

Nancy, The Person 

  1. Tell us one unusual thing about yourself – not related to writing! Back in my early twenties (ages and ages ago), I used to drive stock cars and compete in the Powder Puff Derby.
  2. Who was your first love and what age were you? I was a late bloomer. I didn’t really have a crush on any boy until I was in my teens. Before that, boys were just a nuisance. My first crush was Jake Miller in eighth grade.
  3. If you could relive one day, which one would it be? Think GROUNDHOG DAY, the movie for this one – you’ll have to live it over and over and…. July 27, 1996 – the day the late and wonderful Katy Duffy called me and said she’d like to buy my book. (Okay, I know I should have said something to do with family but … hey … you only get ONE first sale.
  4. Do you like a guy in boxers, briefs, or commando? Silk boxes during breakfast. Commando before and, hopefully, after.
  5. If you had to give up one necessary-can’t-live-without-it beauty item, what would it be? At my age … a good moisturizer.
  6. What three words describes you, the person? Nurturing, compassionate, crazy.
  7. If you could sing a song with Jimmy Fallon, what would it be? This is, quite possibly, the hardest interview question I’ve ever had to answer. I have a list of favorites a mile long but I’d probably go with the one I’ve sung more often in the past two years than any other. Rubber Ducky.
  8. If you could hang out with any literary character from any book penned at any time line, who would it by, why, and what would you do together? This might be the easiest question I’ve ever had. Damian Sutter from Elizabeth Lowell’s Silhouette romance, Chain Lightning. I have lusted after that man for decades and the book itself was what made me want to write romance. What would we do? LOL … use your most vivid and naughty imagination and we’d do it along the Great Barrier Reef.

 

Bonus round

I love the Actor’s Studio show on Bravo, so this is my version of it:

  1. Favorite sound – my youngest grandson’s laughter (he is hysterical)
  2. Least favorite sound – any of my grandchildren crying
  3. Best song every written – How Great Thou Art
  4. Worst song ever written – Too many to name, but anything with vulgar lyrics (I can’t understand how it’s even considered music)
  5. Favorite actor and actress – Dean Cain (serious underrated) and Sandra Bullock
  6. Who would you want to be for 1 day and why? ( It can be anyone living or dead) – Nora Roberts on payday for obvious financial reasons
  7. What turns you on? – a well-written book read by a naked hunky man
  8. What turns you off? – a book with copious mistakes AND songs with vulgar lyrics
  9. Give me the worst 5 words ever heard on a first date ( here’s mine: “Is that your real hair?”) You’re paying the bill, right? (Peggy here: OUCH!!)
  10. What’s your version of a perfect day? – Sleep uninterrupted by family or bodily functions until 9am, Starbucks delivered to my door, write from 9 until 4 (with plenty of breaks for life-sustaining coffee), dinner with my family, play and story time with my grandchildren, and bed by 11pm. Oh, an all of social media done by the promo fairy for one full day.

About Nancy:

Like most authors, Nancy Fraser began writing at an early age, usually on the walls and with crayons or, heaven forbid, permanent markers. Her love of writing often made her the English teacher’s pet, which, of course, resulted in a whole lot of teasing. Still, it was worth it.

Published in multiple genres, Nancy currently writes for four publishers. She has published twenty-two books in both full-length and novella format. Nancy will release her 25th book in 2016. She is currently working on her next Rock and Roll novella and two new erotic romance novellas.

When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people.

Find Nancy here: Website // Blog // Twitter // Facebook // Goodreads // Amazon

And now, as promised: here’s a snippet ofperf5.000x8.000.indd, available now at: AMAZON //THE WILD ROSE PRESS 

Everyone expects Rebecca Winston to marry her high school/college sweetheart, Garrett Langley. The problem is, the flame’s gone out on their romance. They’re still best of friends, but only friends. When Garrett’s father has a heart attack, his older brother Wyatt (an L.A. attorney) returns home for the first time in years. The attraction between Rebecca and Wyatt is immediate.

Can Rebecca expect her family and, especially, Garrett to understand that her desires have changed and turned toward Wyatt?

Can Wyatt get past the feeling that he’s poaching his younger brother’s girl?

Excerpt:

Wyatt pressed down on the accelerator, pushing the sports car a little harder, skirting the legal speed limit for the boulevard leading to her parents’ home. The purr of the finely tuned engine echoed through the tight confines of the car, setting her pulse on a complementary rhythm. Soft jazz played in the background, its melodic tones sinking into her senses, ratcheting up her heartrate yet another notch.

Before she realized it, he’d pulled the car to stop in her parents’ driveway.

“Home sweet home,” he said. “Or, at least I assume you still live with your parents. I guess I should have asked.”

She bit back an outright laugh in favor of a more ladylike chuckle. “Yes, I do still live at home. According to my mother, it’s the proper thing to do.”

Wyatt hopped out and came around the back of the car to open her door. Her mother would have been proud of how she’d waited for his assistance. Usually, she opened her own door before Garrett could get there.

“Would you like to come in and say hello?”

“I’d better not. I’ve been given an order to relay to the cook. I wouldn’t want Christina to have to wait for her supper.” He took hold of her elbow, as he had in the hospital. “I’ll see you to the door.”

Another round of sparks shot up her arm. She pulled away and took two steps forward. “It’s not necessary.”

He caught hold of her wrist and turned her to face him. His dark gaze flared. “Thank you for coming to see Pops. He obviously adores you.”

“It was my pleasure.”

She was about to pull from his grasp when he tightened his grip, stopping her in her tracks. “My brother’s a lucky man.”

Her cheeks flooded with warmth. “Thank you.” He smiled and her heart did a little flip inside her chest.

His deep voice softened to a mere whisper. He released her wrist. “You’re welcome, Re…becc…a.”

She swallowed, smiled and dashed to the porch. By the time she turned back toward the drive, Wyatt had already climbed into the car and cranked the engine. The way he’d said her name, drawn out and distinct, had reminded her of a cat unfurling its lazy body in front of a raging fire.

And her with no extinguisher in sight.

I hoped you enjoyed this interview with Nancy – I certainly did! You can view all the book covers of the CANDY HEARTS novellas ( yup, all 40 of ’em) here

 

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February 8, 2016 · 10:07 am

Final Week of CandyHearts releases…

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It’s the final week of the Wild Rose Press Candy Hearts Romance series. Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to authors Barbara Burke, Nancy Fraser,  Doreen Alsen, and, well, me,  and our releases today NOT2NIGHT,  ONLY YOURS, OohLaLa, and 3 WISHES. And remember to enter the Wild Rose Press RAFFLECOPTER at the end of this blog for a chance to win a Kindle Fire.

NOT2NIGHT by Barbara Burke

Blurb:

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When ARP warden Molly sees a light shining through the darkness of London on a cold winter’s night in the middle of the blitz she’s infuriated with the careless American who struck it. Doesn’t he know there’s a war on?

Guy’s just trying to find his way through a maze of unlit streets. He’s very sorry and Molly reluctantly forgives him. When he accompanies her on her nightly rounds the two learn about each other, themselves and whether it’s really possible to fall in love in only one night – especially when there’s no guarantee of tomorrow.

Excerpt:

They stood silently. Slowly her hand came out of her pocket to rest on the top of his arm. The other one reached up to gently touch his cheek. He could see the glint of her eyes, those impossible brown eyes, as she gazed up at him gravely.

“Are you going to kiss me?” Her cool British voice gave him no inclination of how she felt.

“Is that what you want?” Guy wasn’t sure what he would do if the answer was no.

She didn’t reply, and he took that for her answer. Quickly he undid the clasp on her helmet and pulled it away, letting it drop to the ground without a thought. Free of its weight, she tilted her face up, her lips dark and full in the black night, and settled more deeply into his grasp.

It was invitation enough.

He bent his head toward her.

Her lips were soft and cold. Willing, but tentative. Her arms circled his neck, and he pulled her to him more tightly, body to body despite the thick winter clothing they both wore.

The night suddenly got a lot warmer.

The kiss didn’t last long. It was too sweet to be sustained, and they were too new to the sensation to change it into something more. As soon as Guy sensed Molly withdrawing, he broke it off.

But he didn’t release her. And she made no move to pull away.

“Was that a mistake?” he asked.

“No.” Molly sounded quite sure, and Guy’s heart soared. But then she continued, “However, repeating it might be.”

Buy Links   Amazon    The Wild Rose Press

About Barbara

Barbara Burke

Barbara Burke’s peripatetic life means she’s lived everywhere from a suburban house in a small town to a funky apartment in a big city, and from an architecturally designed estate deep in the forest to a cedar shack on the edge of the ocean. Everywhere she’s gone she’s been accompanied by her husband, her animals and her books. For the last fifteen years she’s worked as a freelance journalist and has won several awards. She was a fan of Jane Austen long before that lady was discovered by revisionists and zombie lovers and thinks Georgette Heyer was one of the great writers of the twentieth century. She lives by the philosophy that one should never turn down the opportunity to get on a plane no matter where it’s going, but deep down inside wishes she could travel everywhere by train.

 

Find Barbara here: Facebook

ONLY YOURS by Nancy Fraser

Blurb:perf5.000x8.000.indd

Everyone expects Rebecca Winston to marry her high school/college sweetheart, Garrett Langley. The problem is, the flame’s gone out on their romance. They’re still best of friends, but only friends. When Garrett’s father has a heart attack, his older brother Wyatt (an L.A. attorney) returns home for the first time in years. The attraction between Rebecca and Wyatt is immediate.

Can Rebecca expect her family and, especially, Garrett to understand that her desires have changed and turned toward Wyatt?

Can Wyatt get past the feeling that he’s poaching his younger brother’s girl?

Excerpt:

Wyatt pressed down on the accelerator, pushing the sports car a little harder, skirting the legal speed limit for the boulevard leading to her parents’ home. The purr of the finely tuned engine echoed through the tight confines of the car, setting her pulse on a complementary rhythm. Soft jazz played in the background, its melodic tones sinking into her senses, ratcheting up her heartrate yet another notch.

Before she realized it, he’d pulled the car to stop in her parents’ driveway.

“Home sweet home,” he said. “Or, at least I assume you still live with your parents. I guess I should have asked.”

She bit back an outright laugh in favor of a more ladylike chuckle. “Yes, I do still live at home. According to my mother, it’s the proper thing to do.”

Wyatt hopped out and came around the back of the car to open her door. Her mother would have been proud of how she’d waited for his assistance. Usually, she opened her own door before Garrett could get there.

“Would you like to come in and say hello?”

“I’d better not. I’ve been given an order to relay to the cook. I wouldn’t want Christina to have to wait for her supper.” He took hold of her elbow, as he had in the hospital. “I’ll see you to the door.”

Another round of sparks shot up her arm. She pulled away and took two steps forward. “It’s not necessary.”

He caught hold of her wrist and turned her to face him. His dark gaze flared. “Thank you for coming to see Pops. He obviously adores you.”

“It was my pleasure.”

She was about to pull from his grasp when he tightened his grip, stopping her in her tracks. “My brother’s a lucky man.”

Her cheeks flooded with warmth. “Thank you.” He smiled and her heart did a little flip inside her chest.

His deep voice softened to a mere whisper. He released her wrist. “You’re welcome, Re…becc…a.”

She swallowed, smiled and dashed to the porch. By the time she turned back toward the drive, Wyatt had already climbed into the car and cranked the engine. The way he’d said her name, drawn out and distinct, had reminded her of a cat unfurling its lazy body in front of a raging fire.

And her with no extinguisher in sight.

Buy Links   Amazon    Wild Rose Press

About Nancy:

nancy

Like most authors, Nancy Fraser began writing at an early age, usually on the walls and with crayons or, heaven forbid, permanent markers. Her love of writing often made her the English teacher’s pet, which, of course, resulted in a whole lot of teasing. Still, it was worth it.

Published in multiple genres, Nancy currently writes for four publishers. She has published twenty-two books in both full-length and novella format. Nancy will release her 25th book in 2016. She is currently working on her next Rock and Roll novella and two new erotic romance novellas.

When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people.

Find Nancy here: Website // Blog // Twitter // Facebook // Goodreads // Amazon

Ooh La La by Doreen Alsen

Blurb:perf5.000x8.000.indd

Aspiring choreographer and dance teacher, Simon West is walking along the hall in the college where he teaches when he gets knocked over by klutzy, two left feet, accounting professor Veronica Cooke. Simon wants to get to know the beautiful woman who ran him down, but how will she react when she finds out his alter-ego is a super sexy cowboy at an upscale exotic dancing male revue and that he makes ends meet by taking off his clothes?

Excerpt:

Her eyes were a dreamy shade of blue, the greenish blue of a calm sea. Her nose was small and straight in the middle of an oval face. Pretty. Very pretty.

“Yes,” she said. “I came to apologize for running you over. Unfortunately I’m Queen of the Klutzes.”

“Okay.” He held out a hand for her to shake.

“Simon West. How did you know where to find me?”

She smiled and nodded at the Barrett University Dance T-shirt he wore. “I went to the Dance Department office and asked. I’m Veronica Cooke. I hope I didn’t hurt you.”

“You didn’t. Hurt me, that is.” Since when did he babble? Since now, he guessed. He had a hard time thinking around her. He wanted to reach out and touch her cheek to see if her skin was as soft and smooth as it looked.

“Well, good. You’re a wonderful dancer. I wish I had that talent.” She glanced at her watch. “I’ve got to get to my office hours. It was nice to meet you.” She turned to leave.

He didn’t want her to. He found he very much wanted her to stay. Here. With him. “Um, do you have time to get coffee later?” He wasn’t dancing at Hardbody that night.

“I might. When?”

“Around four?”

“Four sounds great. Where?”

“Sammy’s?”

“Okay. I’ll see you then.” She gave him one last smile and left.

He indulged himself and watched her trundle down the hall. “I think I need to get to know you better, Veronica Cooke.”

Buy Links  Amazon    WIld Rose Press

About Doreen:

doreen

Doreen has wanted to be a writer her whole life but took a detour into being an opera singer and choral conductor. She realized that maybe she should spend more time writing when creating the back stories was more fun than actually singing them. Plus her romance lovin’ heart couldn’t take all the dead bodies littering the stage at the end of the performance. She is still an active conductor and is regularly found waving her arms around in front of singers.

Find Doreen here: Website

 

 

3 WISHES by Peggy Jaeger ( that’s me!!)

perf5.000x8.000.inddBlurb:

Valentine’s Day is chocolatier Chloe San Valentino’s favorite day of the year. Not only is it the busiest day in her candy shop, Caramelle de Chloe, but it’s also her birthday. Chloe’s got a birthday wish list for the perfect man she pulls out every year: he’d fall in love with her in a heartbeat, he’d be someone who cares about people, and he’d have one blue eye and one green eye, just like her. So far, Chloe’s fantasy man hasn’t materialized, despite the matchmaking efforts of her big, close-knit Italian family. But this year for her big 3-0 birthday, she just might get her three wishes.

Excerpt    

At about five minutes of ten I was almost ready to turn the Closed sign on the door when it opened. I heard Janie’s breath hitch and turned from where I was sweeping up. Staying open late is always a risk, with the thought thieves will invade at the end of the day.

If the guy standing at the door glancing around the shop was a thief, then Dio mio, I wanted to be robbed.

About six foot, his hair was the color of a deer’s pelt, with autumnal golds and browns shot together in a glorious patchwork that grazed the collar of his jacket and curled a little at the ends. He wore a faded brown bomber jacket over a shirt I couldn’t see, but he had shoulders almost as wide as my doorway. A pair of well-worn jeans covered his mile long legs, and the fabric on the stress points at his knees was practically white.

“We’re about to close,” I heard myself say. “Can I help you?”

It was at that moment he looked over at me.

His face could have been sculpted by Da Vinci or Michelangelo. A broad, smooth, forehead housed naturally arched eyebrows I knew some of my gay guy friends would have paid a fortune to have on their own faces. His cheeks were carved from marble, high, smooth and deep. And his mouth, mother-of-God, his mouth. Full, thick beautiful lips sat perfectly over a chin with a dent you could shove a button into and have it stay put.

“Sorry,” he said, those fabulous lips pulling up a little shyly at the corners. “I got stuck at work and couldn’t get here until now. I’ll be quick. Promise.”

So here’s the thing: the guy was gorgeous. But even if he’d looked like a frog with raw antipasto smothering his face, I would have dropped to my knees when he opened his mouth. Warm honey, a shot of raw whiskey, and a little hot puff of smoke wafted from his mouth like a fine and rare brandy being decanted.

Buy Links:  Amazon   Wild Rose Press

About Peggy:

booksigngirl

Peggy Jaeger is a contemporary romance author who writes about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can’t live without them.

Her current titles, available now, include SKATER’S WALTZ and THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME, and FIRST IMPRESSIONS books 1, 2 and 3 in her 6-book The MacQuire Women Series, published by The Wild Rose Press.

Tying into her love of families, her children’s book, THE KINDNESS TALES, was illustrated by her artist mother-in-law.

Peggy holds a master’s degree in Nursing Administration and first found publication with several articles she authored on Alzheimer’s Disease during her time running an Alzheimer’s in-patient care unit during the 1990s.

FInd Peggy here: website // twitter // facebook //goodreads // pinterest

Enter the Wild Rose Press RAFFLECOPTE for a chance to win a Kindle fire. Clink on the http://link

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February 5, 2016 · 10:06 am

A visit with Candy Hearts author Beverly Breton

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Today, I’ve got a nice little post from Candy Hearts author Beverly Breton, author of I’M SURE. Did you know in addition to being a published author, she’s a floral designer? I didn’t either, but don’t you think being a floral designer gives you some exceptional insight into one of the busiest flower buying days of the year, Valentine’s Day, which just so happens to be the themes of all the Candy Hearts books? I do! Let’s listen to Bev, oh, and don’t forget to enter the RAFFLECOPTER for a KINDLE FIRE at the end of this blog, donated by THE WILD ROSE PRESS.

here’s Beverly:

Smiles and Warm Hearts are what I write about, and what I hope readers find in my light sweet contemporary romances. I’m also a floral designer, and since floral design is about smiles and warm hearts, too, to be a romance writer and a floral designer feel s like two sides of the same coin. Love and flowers–pure magic, both of them!

Valentine’s Day is for flowers and romantic notes so most of the Valentine’s orders for flowers that we send out aren’t particularly memorable. More memorable are real-life romantic heroes when romance isn’t on the national calendar. Like the man who always picks up a long-stemmed rose to give to his date every time he takes a woman out for the first time. Or the high school senior boy who sent a hand-tied bouquet to the high school senior girl on the day he was asking her to the prom!

Surrounded by blooms is a pretty fantastic way to spend a day. Nonetheless, the profession can be physically grueling, and not for the faint-hearted. Flowers are leading players in life’s biggest events. I’ve helped people who are bubbling with the joy of an impending wedding along with those sobbing with grief over the loss of a loved one. And sometimes, on holidays like Valentine’s Day, I find myself in uncharted–and uncomfortable–territory.

One anguished male customer implored that I inform him how many roses he needed to send to have his apology accepted? Needless to say, there’s no floral design class for that. And the obvious question that popped into my head was: what on earth did you do? But my writer’s imagination was already winging, and I realized I did not want to know! I might want to stop talking to him if I did. So we perused arrangement photos and possibilities for quite some time, and he finally decided to go traditional–two dozen long-stem red roses arranged in a giant crystal vase. I hope the flowers did their job for him…I think.

Megan in my Candy Hearts romance I’m Sure designs ponds and water gardens. She spends her days around lily pads and water iris. Her job is not all glamour either; the first time firefighter Jason lays eyes on her, she’s up to her knees and elbows in mud. But that doesn’t stop Jason from recognizing the fiery-haired water sprite in front of him—the woman he’s been waiting for his whole life. A water hose, a lunch, a fire, a stroke, a few conversation hearts, and one long-stemmed lavender rose later, and Megan and Jason are ready for Valentine’s Day, together. I hope you’ll read my story and find out how they get there, discovering some smiles along the way, and warm hearts at the finish.

Here’s to love and magic every day of the year!

I’M SURE

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Blurb
During the day, Megan surrounds herself with water lilies and goldfish in the ponds she creates. At night, memories of her lying ex-boyfriend are a reminder she can never again trust a man.

Jason embraces his career as paramedic firefighter, even though ugly experience declares his profession a greedy mistress. During quiet nights at the station, he wonders if this bachelor existence is all he’ll ever know.

Then Jason meets Megan and sparks fly, chased by flashes of anger when Jason, battling a raging apartment fire, stands up Megan on their first date. Is St. Valentine powerful enough to bring these two strong-willed people together?

Excerpt

Jason reaches over the table and takes my hand in his.

Much as I try scrubbing at the dirt, my nails are almost never 100% clean, and I’ve got a long scratch across my knuckles. And anyhow, in the middle of a work day, that’s part of who I am.

He turns my hand palm up and runs his finger across the calluses.

My heart skitters a beat at the feel of his hands cradling mine. His touch exudes caring. Imagining him tending a person in distress is easy.

Need I say it? I like the feel of him touching me. The world is charmingly in order right here, right now. But what is he doing? “Is something wrong with my hand?”

“Every time I see you, you’re in the water. And you’re the odd duck. I was just seeing”—he turns his head to examine my palm, his carved cheeks in profile—“if there’s a web between your fingers…”

Bemusement laces his tone. “Like a Labrador retriever?” I retort, stifling the urge to flex my fingers; I don’t want him to let my hand go.

He laughs and releases my hand. “My favorite animal. But a dog? No. That’s not what you bring to mind.”

His grin is so open, so easy, I decide to divulge something I’ve never told anyone. “I did wish for scales when I was younger. I thought it would be cool to be a mermaid.” He takes me in for a beat, his gaze deep.

“I can see that.”

His voice is low and velvety. I draw in a ragged breath.

Buy Links:
amazon     The Wild Rose Press

About Bev:

bev betton

Beverly Breton is an eternal fan of the happy ending, and a sucker for any book that grabs the reader through characterization and emotion. A career non-fiction writer and editor, Beverly has written articles and personal essays for newspapers and magazines across the country, and has taught college writing at the undergraduate and graduate level. She now writes romantic short stories, and has garnered such awards as Night Owl Reviews Top Pick and You Gotta Read Reviews highest rating You Gotta ReadFive Stars. She is also a professional floral designer, and her garden nursery experience and love of plants is fondly woven into her latest short story I’m Sure featuring a pond garden designer and the emergency responder who falls for this fiery-haired near-mermaid when he discovers her up to her thighs in water one February morning.

Find Bev Here:

Website/ Amazon Author Page / Goodreads

Enter to win A Kindle Fire from The Wild rose Press. Click on the “Http://link… to enter

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February 4, 2016 · 9:52 am

A visit with Heidi Kneale author of Marry Me…

Today I am so pleased to introduce you to another new author to me, WRP and Candy Hearts Romance author Heidi Kneale. Heidi’s CHR book, MARRY ME just hit the new release block and it’s a goodie! After you read her interview, stick around for a little sumthin’ sumthin’ from the book.

Here’s Heidi:

heidikneale-small

Heidi: The Writer

  1. What drives you to write? Possibly the need to be able to change the world. I want to be able to explore the possibilities of human choice, and what happens when we choose for the better. That, and I can’t not write. Drives me nuts, sometimes. A character or a plotline natters on in the corner of my brain and won’t leave me alone until I get it out.
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do your write, and why? Anything but contemporary. Also I tend to stay on the sweeter side of spicy. I’m more interested in the emotional and psychological impact of love. I’m especially fond of blending genres–Fantasy Romance, Historical Romance, Science Fiction Romance. Fantasy Historical Romance…
  1. What genre(s) of Romance do you read, and why? I’ll read nearly anything, but confess a strong preference for Regency Romance.
  1. What’s your writing schedule? Do you write every day? Nearly every day. I’ve got a Day Job and some volunteer work. Sometimes between those two I find my day eaten up with no time to write. But I do have one day scheduled that’s ONLY for writing. Nobody touches my Tuesdays unless it’s an emergency. Also, I’ve booked out the hour between 5:45-6:45am to write every weekday morning. I belong to a Write Club. We meet once a fortnight at a central library and we spend three hours (or so) just writing. Not talking, not being distracted, but writing. We all find this highly motivational.
  1. Give us a glimpse of the surroundings where you write. Separate room? In the kitchen? At the dining room table? I’ll write nearly anywhere I can get a comfy seat. My office is a terrible mess, so until I get it cleaned up, I can’t write much in there. Instead, I’ll retreat to the lounge or the theater or prop myself up in bed. I’ve sat in the car and on a padded pew in a church.
  1. Are you the kind of writer who needs total quiet to compose, or are you able to filter out the typical sounds of the day and use your tunnelvision? I prefer quietude. Sometimes I can filter out ambient sounds, but if music’s involved, I get lost.
  1. Do you listen to music while you write, and if so, what kind? If not, why not? Absolutely no music whatsoever. None. It distracts me. I’m a musician in another life and it’s too easy to be absorbed by the music and taken off-track. This is why early-early morning and a Tuesday (when the kids are at school) are ideal writing times for me. If I’m not “writing”, but daydreaming about writing, sometimes I’ll hum an earworm that’s suitable to a particular character. But when it comes time to write, it must be relatively silent. When we built our house, we put in solid, sound-resistant doors to my office so I could shut out the household noise.
  1. How did you come up with the plotline/idea for your current WIP? I’ve developed the skill for writing to order. When my editor told me about the call for subs for the Candy Hearts Romance series, I did a bit of research into candy hearts. I feared it would be Contemporary only. However candy hearts are 150 years old. Awesome. Let’s write an historical. I spent an hour brainstorming, then pitched the idea to her. She wondered if I was going off-brand, and I thought, why not throw magic in? So I did. It seemed like a whackadoodle idea, but she loved it. Apparently, so do my readers.
  2.  Which comes first for you – character or plot? And why? I find I am more successful when the plot comes first. With a plot, the characters have a goal, so their motivations are in that direction. When I come up with a character first, I have trouble getting them motivated.
  1. What 3 words describes you, the writer? Complex, far-sighted, creative.

Heidi: The Person 

  1. Tell us one unusual thing about yourself – not related to writing! I’m also an astronomer and citizen scientist. Most people find this odd, as my bachelor degree is an arts degree. (My forthcoming masters degree is in Astronomy.)
  2. Who was your first love and what age were you? Puppy love or solid I’ll-never-forget-you? First puppy love? I fell in love with Jeff when I was three years old. We moved when I was five, so he faded from my heart. First forever love? I fell in love with Paul when I was twelve. He was never interested in me in that way, alas, but we remained good friends. As I watch how well he treats his wife and children, I take joy in the fact that I did choose well.
  3. If you could relive one day, which one would it be? Think GROUNDHOG DAY, the movie for this one – you’ll have to live it over and over and…. When I was a teenager I belonged to an orchestra. Every summer we’d go on tour. I remember one particular day when we had a really good day. I can’t remember what we did in the morning, but we had a concert in the afternoon which I found rather enjoyable, and we all got together for dinner that night. I wish I could remember details. All I remember is that from start to finish it was a really good day. I would live that over and over. 
  4. Do you like a guy in boxers, briefs, or commando? Boxers.
  5. If you had to give up one necessary-can’t-live-without-it beauty item, what would it be? Tough call. I have two can’t-live-without products: a good lip balm and a good conditioner. But if I had to choose one, I’ll cry as I give up my conditioner. Ain’t nobody touching my lip balm.
  6. What three words describes you, the person? Curious, polymath, spiritual 
  7. If you could sing a song with Jimmy Fallon, what would it be? Heck, we could sing anything and have a great time! Actually, I’d write a comedic duet just for him and me. Maybe something along the lines of “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…”
  8. If you could hang out with any literary character from any book penned at any time line, who would it by, why, and what would you do together? In my inventory I have a Fantasy trilogy with a demi-god as the main character. I’d choose him. He’s powerful, he’s got a sense of humor and doesn’t take himself too seriously. He’s excellent company when he’s in a good mood. What would we do? Why, just hang out. He’s got an extensive repertoire of funny jokes.

Bonus round

I love the Actor’s Studio show on Bravo, so this is my version of it:

  1. Favorite sound Full choir singing. 
  2. Least favorite sound Martian call-to-arms during invasion: https://youtu.be/w1hURW6Vxqs
  3. Best song every written Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.
  4. Worst song ever written My mind has blanked out so many bad songs…
  5. Favorite actor and actress Actress? Can’t say I have one. Actor: Richard Armitage forever.
  6. Who would you want to be for 1 day and why? ( It can be anyone living or dead) Honestly? No idea.
  7. What turns you on? Smart people with good senses of humour. That, and Richard Armitage.
  8. What turns you off? Stupid people who don’t know when to shut up.
  9. Give me the worst 5 words ever heard on a first date ( here’s mine: “Is that your real hair?”) “You aren’t fun, are you?”
  10. What’s your version of a perfect day? Getting everything done I wanted to get done. I mean, EVERYTHING.

Peggy here: Heidi it has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you! I feel as if I have a brand new literary friend for life! Cheers. And now, dear readers, here’s that little sumthin’ sumthin” I promised you: A sneak peak at MARRY ME

MARRY ME ( A Candy Hearts Romance)

Blurb:

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In 1905 New York City, affluent Millie Moore wants to be outspoken like the suffragettes she admires. She also wants to rid herself of an annoying and controlling suitor. For a well-brought up young lady whose mother fears her impending spinsterhood, speaking her mind is an uphill battle.

When Raymond Wilson sees Millie at a rally, it’s love at first sight. Not wanting his stutter to ruin his chances, he enchants a little candy heart to do his talking for him.

For Millie, Raymond is a breath of fresh air. And maybe, just maybe, someone she could love. But for her social-climbing suitor Guy Elliot, he’s a threat to his plans. And Raymond isn’t the only one who knows something about magic. Now the ante has been upped and Millie is the prize…

Excerpt:

A giggle rose up inside Millie. “Do you always carry around candy?”

“A g-g-ood uncle is a-a-a-always p-prepared.”

Raymond patted down his pockets. His hand rested over his heart for a moment. A coy little smile played his lips. Then he reached into another pocket and brought out a rumpled white bag from Smith’s. He pulled out a heart.

“I—I been s-s-aving th-th-these in c-c-ase I f-found you ag-g-gain.” From the inside of his jacket he produced a pencil. He wrote a tiny message on the heart before he gave it to her.

“Eat me!” it squeaked.

How adorable.

Her laughter bubbled up unrestrained. “Is it safe?”

He nodded.

She looked at the heart, hesitated, and then held it up to his lips. “You first.”

He opened his mouth and accepted the heart from her delicate fingers. He sucked on it and closed his eyes in delight. “Mmmm…” He leaned back against the iron railing and gave himself over to the joys of a little conversation heart.

Millie let out a breath. “Are you teasing me?”

He lifted a single eyelid. “Yep.”

Extracting another heart, he wrote, “Sweet Lips.”

He held it up for her. “Y-your t-turn.”

 

Buy Links: The Wild Rose Press // Barnes&Noble // Amazon // Kobo

About Heidi:

Heidi Kneale is an Australian author of moderate repute best known for her escapist fiction–especially Fantasy and Romance. She lives in Western Australia, near the ocean. Like most humans, she has a family. She also associates with the World’s Most Boring Cat. When not writing novels, she composes music and stares at the stars.

 

FInd Heidi Here:

Website//   Blog // Facebook//  Twitter // Goodreads // Amazon 

 

 

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February 3, 2016 · 9:49 am

Candy Hearts releases today…

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We’re coming into the home stretch with our CANDY HEARTS ROMANCES! Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Today, I want to introduce you to Laura Strickland, Cait Jarrod,  Angela Hayes, and Brandy Wilson and their CandyHearts additions: ASK ME, FIND ME, GOT LOVE?  and I LOVE YOU. And don’t forget to enter the WILD ROSE PRESS RAFFLECOPTER for a chance to win a KINDLE FIRE. Details below.

ASK ME by Laura Strickland

BLURB:

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Alone on Valentine’s Day, Leo Rankin attends the library’s Blind Date With a Book event hoping for something he can take to bed with him that night, and finds himself competing against Gerri Webb for the last remaining book. Wild child Gerri is not his usual type. Yet he feels an immediate, sizzling attraction and agrees to share the book and its accompanying bag of candy hearts.

The whole idea of a Blind Date With a Book is to go off genre, so Gerri doesn’t mind when their flirty conversation suggests they unwrap each other rather than the mystery book. When a candy heart advises, “Ask Me,” she asks Leo back to her apartment. She never expects button-down Leo to hit all her buttons, but by the next morning she fears her heart’s in danger. Can one night spent off genre translate to real life?

EXCERPT:

“Be a gentleman,” the black-haired woman told Leo, “and let me have the book.” She already had her library card out, clutched in her other hand.

“Why don’t you share it?” the clerk suggested impishly. “See what happens.”

The black-haired woman laughed a bit nervously. Before Leo could speak, the clerk snatched the library card from her hand and wanded the book. “There you go. Oh, and every book comes with a little bag of candy hearts. Have a happy Valentine’s Day.”

Leo frowned and snatched the small, red bag the clerk pushed across the counter at him. Elsewhere in the building, lights dimmed. They had little choice but to leave.

Yet the woman still clutched her side of the book.

“Who gets to take it home?” she asked.

Leo smiled suddenly. “Pretty ridiculous to be negotiating over an unknown book for company tonight, isn’t it?”

“Pitiful,” she agreed.

Leo hesitated, impulse nibbling at him once again. He could suggest they get a coffee or a drink together. Sure, she was a far cry from the kind of woman he usually dated, almost diametrically opposed. But it beat being alone, right?

She gave him a provocative look. “Maybe the candy hearts hold the answer to who gets the book first.” She dug into the small, red bag in his hand to draw forth a single heart, and Leo saw her fingernails were painted black. She opened her palm with the heart on it, words facing upward.

Ask Me, Leo read.

Well, then. He drew a breath. “Want to go somewhere for coffee?”

Read me review of ASK ME here

Buy links:

Amazon      Wild Rose press

Author bio:

laura strikland

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 romances Devil Black and His Wicked Highland Ways as well as The Guardians of Sherwood Trilogy consisting of Daughter of Sherwood, Champion of Sherwood and Lord of Sherwood, she has also published two Steampunk romances, Dead Handsome: a Buffalo Steampunk Adventure and Off Kilter: a Buffalo Steampunk Adventure as well as two Christmas novellas: The Tenth Suitor and Mrs. Claus and the Viking Ship. Her Lobster Cove Historical Romance, The White Gull, is the prequel to her new release, Forged By Love, a Lobster Cove novella. Ask Me is her first Romantic Comedy.

Find Laura Here:  Web site:

FIND ME by Cait Jarrod

Blurb:

find me

In Heather Ridge, Virginia, myth has it the lucky recipients of the two FIND ME candy hearts distributed each year are soul mates.

Too afraid of seeing her one-time trusted friend, good-hearted Lyse Haynes refuses to go to her high school class reunion. But when she receives a second invitation containing the elusive candy heart, she takes an overdue vacation to pursue the dream of finally finding her soul mate.Ice cream creator Cooper Schmidt plans to take his product nationwide. His marketing team proposes the perfect destination for his next store. Unfortunately, it belongs to the father of the woman he’s harbored feelings for since high school. He uses her belief in myths and mails her the candy heart to entice her to Heather Ridge, in hopes she will convince her father to sell.

Ice cream creator Cooper Schmidt plans to take his product nationwide. His marketing team proposes the perfect destination for his next store. Unfortunately, it belongs to the father of the woman he’s harbored feelings for since high school. He uses her belief in myths and mails her the candy heart to entice her to Heather Ridge, in hopes she will convince her father to sell.There’s just one problem. After ten years, his old feelings tumble forward, stronger than ever, and Lyse has

There’s just one problem. After ten years, his old feelings tumble forward, stronger than ever, and Lyse has a decision to make—discover who has the candy heart companion or follow her heart.

Excerpt:

“Legend has it, there are two FIND ME candies produced each year. When two people lucky enough to receive them see each other, they know they found their soul mates.”

“Phfts.” Coop chuckled. “Good one.”

Rill ignored him. What he said was intriguing. She always considered legends, myths, and superstitions as truths. “Shush,” she said out of the corner of her mouth and focused on the storeowner. “Go on.”

“The thing is, most times finding the other person is hard. People don’t know where to search. They check under flashy exteriors, smug attitudes, and never see the person’s soul.”

“Come on,” Coop growled. “You’re not gonna trust what he’s dishing out, are you? How can manufacturers produce two candies, send them out worldwide, and expect the two people who receive them to find each other?”

Odd, he didn’t get uptight about any of Rill’s other stories. Today, his forehead pulled down, and his lips flattened.

“It’s a myth,” she said.

“Yeah, which you believe.” He spoke with a combination of concern and disgust.

“I think it’s lovely. I bet that’s how I’ll find my soul mate.”

Her comment got another, “Phft,” from Coop.

“I bet it will, little lady.” Rill put the tray back under the counter.

“Let’s go.” Coop grabbed her hand. “Thanks, Rill.”

“Anytime,” he chuckled. “One more thing.”

She pulled on Coop’s hand. He wouldn’t stop, so she yanked it. “Yeah?”

“The two people can only meet in Heather Ridge.”

“You’re kidding me.” Coop fumed, snatched her hand, and tugged her out of the store.

“What’s your problem?” Again, she jerked her hand away from his and stopped. “I think the story is great. It’s romantic. A dream.”

“You haven’t checked out its veracity.”

Leave it to brain boy to think science rules everything. “Sometimes there is no explanation.”

“I hear pigs fly. Do you think I should trust hearsay?”

Now, he was being mean. “Not nice.”

He smiled lopsidedly. “You’re right.” He pulled her into his arms, and she rested her head on his chest. Unlike with anyone else, she discarded the dispute and absorbed his comfort.

“Hey, Lyse!” Wally shouted from across the road. “Want some flowers for Friday? Come on, I’ll let you pick them out.”

No one ever bought her flowers. “Um…”

Coop gave her a tight squeeze and released her. “Have a great time,” he said and walked in the opposite direction of the florist. “See you around.”

Author of award-winning romantic suspense Band of Friends series, Cait Jarrod won Reader Choice Awards for best HEA (Happily Ever After), suspense, and Editor’s Choice.

Her heroes have been described as “every girl’s dreams,” the heroines as “strong, down-to-earth, and likable,” the secondary characters “hysterical.” The plots are “fast-paced, unpredictable and clever.”

Buy Links

Amazon      Wild Rose Press

About the Author:

cait jarrod

Author of award-winning romantic suspense Band of Friends series, Cait Jarrod won Reader Choice Awards for best HEA (Happily Ever After), suspense, and Editor’s Choice.

Her heroes have been described as “every girl’s dreams,” the heroines as “strong, down-to-earth, and likable,” the secondary characters “hysterical.” The plots are “fast-paced, unpredictable and clever.”

Stay in touch with Cait:

Blog/Newsletter/ Facebook/ Twitter

 

 

 

GOT LOVE? by Angela Hayes

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With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, gorse fairy, Flora Hawthorne is up to her neck in flowers, chocolate, and all things romance. She has no time for love, until she comes face to face with her own personal Cupid and the sparks fly!

Looking to settle down, Cupid Tharin Terize wants fairy Flora Hawthorne to be his valentine, not just for one night, but for the rest of time. Now, all he has to do is convince her.

EXCERPT

Tucking a few extra napkins in her coat pocket, Flora picked up her coffee, only to spin around and smash right into a cashmere-clad brick wall.

“Aw, snapdragons!” She exclaimed over a chorus of stunned gasps and excited squeals, the contents of her cup now soaking the shirt in front of her. Thinking quickly she dropped the near empty cup, pulled her scarf from around her neck, and used it to blot at the spreading coffee stain. “Sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s my fault, I was too close.”

Flora looked up. All rational thought fled her mind. This was no elf, fairy, or nymph in front of her. Oh, no, this was a cupid! Gorgeous beyond description with tempting chocolate eyes a fae-kin could get lost in for days, he had a neatly-trimmed beard that framed a perfect white smile and dark shoulder-length hair that accented a face obviously carved by The Mother, Cailleach Bheur herself.

“Wow, you are ripped under there, aren’t you?” She admired without thinking, only to blush when she realized what she’d said. The man was in possession of a clearly well-muscled chest and the requisite washboard abs that went with it. “Not that I’m trying to cop a feel or anything,” she confessed. “But that’s nice. Kudos on the hard work by the way.” Shaking her head, Flora mentally chided herself. This was not going well.

Read my review of GOT LOVE? here

BUY LINKS:

Wild Rose Press     Amazon

About Angela:

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A married mother of two, I split my time between bringing characters to life by computer, and yarn to life with needle and hook. You can find me at www.authorangelahayes.blogspot.com where I help connect readers and the authors they love.

 

Find Angela here: Facebook / Twitter  Pinterest/  Amazon / GoodReads

 

I Love You by Brandy Wilson

Blurb:

ilove you

Tate Campbell liked his life. Running his bar kept him busy and paid his bills, and a relationship with anyone wasn’t on the horizon. He sure wasn’t expecting a Valentine surprise, especially one who looked like a fallen angel—with a broken-down car.

Dace Robinson’s career as an ER doctor left little time for relationships. Valentine’s Day was just another day on the calendar, albeit one filled with annoying decorations and sad reminders she had no one special in her life.Until the night car trouble compelled her to seek help in a biker bar, and the handsome owner claimed Dace as his woman – she had no idea how sweet Valentine’s Day could be.

Excerpt:

“You’re a guy. You have to say us getting intimate wouldn’t be stupid, or you lose your membership card in the man club.” Pushing up against him was like being pressed against a wall; a really sexy wall with a seriously buff body and a mouth made for slow, sensuous kissing. He was implacable, immovable, and irritating—not to mention protective.

And hot. Completely and utterly hot.

“My membership card in the man club?” Gently he traced her lips with his index finger. “Hate to disappoint you, but I wouldn’t belong to any club that would have me as a member.”

“Quoting Groucho Marx isn’t furthering your cause.”

“And here I thought humor was an aphrodisiac.” He chuckled. “Dace, you kiss like an angel, and I’ve already told you I want to see you again. You’ve got my number, so the ball’s in your court.” He nudged his hardness against her hip, as he nodded at her erect nipples straining through her scrubs. “There’s attraction on both sides here, unless I need my eyes checked.”

He traced a finger across her collarbone, and down the neck of her scrubs into her cleavage, making her shudder. “Let go, babe. Just for a few minutes.”

She gaped at him, her mouth open. Thoughts whirled through her head, arousal and sheer lust fogging her brain.

To let go…just for a few minutes…

No patients, no nurses, no ringing cell phones, no decisions to make, no paperwork, no intercom pages…

She couldn’t help it; she nodded.

Buy Links:

Amazon    Wild Rose Press

ABout Brandy:

Brandy lives with her family – her husband and two spoiled furbabies – in the cold Midwest. When she isn’t reading, writing, editing, or connecting with fans on social media, she loves experimenting with nail art, making jewelry, and jumping on her hubby’s Harley for a ride. 

Win a KINDLE FIRE from the Wild Rose Press. Click on the http://link

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February 2, 2016 · 9:54 am

A visit with Candy Hearts author Angela Hayes

Today I get to talk to one of my favorite people and authors, my Candy Hearts sistah, Angela Hayes. Her CHR selection GOT LOVE? drops tomorrow, and it’s a goodie! Stick around until the end for an excerpt and you can read my review of this fun Valentine’s Day novella. Here’s Angela:

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1. What was the inspiration – aside from the candy hearts candies(!) for your book?

The idea for Got Love? actually grew from an idea for another short story I was trying to puzzle out, that features my main character, Flora’s, best friend Fia. From the beginning I wanted there to be a secret community of fae living among humans and with the Valentine’s theme, it seemed only natural to write about a cupid. Add in a florist and you’ve got the stereotypical Valentine’s bases covered.

Knowing Fia’s story wouldn’t work for the Candy Hearts series I put it on the back burner to write Flora’s and in the process have set up not only Fia’s story, but one for Flora’s other friend, Runa as well.

2. Love the title : GOT LOVE.  Is there a story behind your choice of that one?

When the call went out for Candy Hearts and we were told our titles needed to be found on one of the actual pieces of candy, I hit the net to find a list of choices. Boy, where there a bunch. Keeping in mind that I wanted to use a cupid, when I came across, Got Love?, I thought, what better title could there be! And when I kept visualizing him in a red-tshirt, with Got Love? written in white across his chest, I knew I had a keeper. Sadly, it’s too cold for my cupid, Tharin, to wear a t-shirt, but maybe in the next book.

3. Since the CH series are all novellas, was it harder to write this length than a full length novel? I ask because sometimes it’s hard to fit everything you want to say to serve the story in a certain lower word count.

Working a full-time job and raising tweens makes it hard for me to get any type of writing done lately. But with a rather quick deadline, trying my hand at a novella was right up my alley. Keeping the word count low actually worked in my favor, since I was able to write Got Love? in less than a year!

4. What special things/events/or presents do you give your Valentine(s) every year?

The hubby, kids, and I always celebrate with food. We either head out to eat, or fire up the grill.

5. Best Valentine’s gift (given to you) ever?

I’m going to say this year’s book release will the best gift ever. That’ll be hard to top!

GOT LOVE?

BLURB

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With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, gorse fairy, Flora Hawthorne is up to her neck in flowers, chocolate, and all things romance. She has no time for love, until she comes face to face with her own personal Cupid and the sparks fly!

Looking to settle down, Cupid Tharin Terize wants fairy Flora Hawthorne to be his valentine, not just for one night, but for the rest of time. Now, all he has to do is convince her.

EXCERPT

Tucking a few extra napkins in her coat pocket, Flora picked up her coffee, only to spin around and smash right into a cashmere-clad brick wall.

“Aw, snapdragons!” She exclaimed over a chorus of stunned gasps and excited squeals, the contents of her cup now soaking the shirt in front of her. Thinking quickly she dropped the near empty cup, pulled her scarf from around her neck, and used it to blot at the spreading coffee stain. “Sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s my fault, I was too close.”

Flora looked up. All rational thought fled her mind. This was no elf, fairy, or nymph in front of her. Oh, no, this was a cupid! Gorgeous beyond description with tempting chocolate eyes a fae-kin could get lost in for days, he had a neatly-trimmed beard that framed a perfect white smile and dark shoulder-length hair that accented a face obviously carved by The Mother, Cailleach Bheur herself.

“Wow, you are ripped under there, aren’t you?” She admired without thinking, only to blush when she realized what she’d said. The man was in possession of a clearly well-muscled chest and the requisite washboard abs that went with it. “Not that I’m trying to cop a feel or anything,” she confessed. “But that’s nice. Kudos on the hard work by the way.” Shaking her head, Flora mentally chided herself. This was not going well.

Buy Links

Amazon       Wild Rose Press

My Review of GOT LOVE?

 

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Filed under Author, Candy Hearts, love, Romance, Romance Books, The Wild Rose Press, WIld Rose Press AUthor

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February 1, 2016 · 9:43 am

Week 5 of the Candy Hearts Romances

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Today I get to introduce you to  Debra Druzy, Heidi Kneale, J.C.McKenzie, and Annette Miller and their Candy Hearts Romances DARE ME, MARRY ME, BE MY LOVE, and WWW.CUPID. And remember: there’s a RAFFLECOPTER CONTEST from the WILD ROSE PRESS to win a KINDLE FIRE. Details are below.

DARE ME ( Debra Druzy)

Blurb:

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For wedding stylist Misty Morningside, mixing business with pleasure is a professional no-no. That is, until she runs into wedding photographer Adam Wright at a Valentine’s Day event. Dare they set aside business for one night of pleasure?

Excerpt:

“A girl could get used to this kind of TLC. Don’t spoil me or you’ll never get rid of me.” Misty licked the marinade from her lips.

“I have every intention of keeping you, Misty Morningside. Now that I have you, I’m not letting you go. Ever.” Hunger radiated from his gaze as if she were the next course.

Heat crept into her cheeks at his soulful secret that stole her breath. She dodged the last bite on the fork and swooped in for a first kiss but he stealthily avoided it.

“One more bite.” Adam fed Misty final morsel then dabbed her mouth with a white linen napkin.

He might be playing the role of a perfect alpha-gentleman, but beneath that proper tuxedo was the scrappy teenager notorious for cutting class to sneak onto the football field, under the bleachers with the flavor-of-the-week. She’d studied those smooth moves, watching bird’s-eye from the second story window of Scenic View High School, wishing she could be one of his many conquests. Now was her chance.

He held a fresh flute of champagne to her lips, but the mischievous twinkle in his whiskey eyes had her craving something else—something harder between her thighs.

“Ready for dessert?”

More than ready. She clenched her lips to keep from saying something that would come back to bite her in the end and nodded instead.

God, what am I thinking? Where’s my mantra? Drowning in champagne, so it seemed.

It was only fair to warn him her career came before everything, but she didn’t want to ruin the mood talking about work. Just because they were single, consenting adults didn’t mean this filly should break the stallion and make him her stud—not when her commitment to the family business left so little room for monkey business.

Then again…

If there ever was a perfect time to be fooling around, Valentine’s Day was it. Only a couple of hours remained, and by God, her libido deserved to go out with a bang. A great big mind-blowing she-bang. As much as she wanted to get her hands on the bridal boutique in the near future, she wanted Adam now.

Forget the mantra for one night. She’d be sure to screw on her head properly tomorrow.

Buy Links:

Amazon    WIld Rose Press

About the Author:

Debra Druzy by KMPNY-11Debra Druzy is a married, stay-at-home mom, writing romance in between running errands and doing household chores.

Find Debra here: Debra Druzy’s Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | TWRP | Amazon | Newsletter

 

MARRY ME by Heidi Kneale

Blurb:

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In 1905 New York City, affluent Millie Moore wants to be outspoken like the suffragettes she admires. She also wants to rid herself of an annoying and controlling suitor. For a well-brought up young lady whose mother fears her impending spinsterhood, speaking her mind is an uphill battle.

When Raymond Wilson sees Millie at a rally, it’s love at first sight. Not wanting his stutter to ruin his chances, he enchants a little candy heart to do his talking for him.

For Millie, Raymond is a breath of fresh air. And maybe, just maybe, someone she could love. But for her social-climbing suitor Guy Wilson, he’s a threat to his plans. And Raymond isn’t the only one who knows something about magic. Now the ante has been upped and Millie is the prize…

Excerpt:

A giggle rose up inside Millie. “Do you always carry around candy?”

“A g-g-ood uncle is a-a-a-always p-prepared.”

Raymond patted down his pockets. His hand rested over his heart for a moment. A coy little smile played his lips. Then he reached into another pocket and brought out a rumpled white bag from Smith’s. He pulled out a heart.

“I—I been s-s-aving th-th-these in c-c-ase I f-found you ag-g-gain.” From the inside of his jacket he produced a pencil. He wrote a tiny message on the heart before he gave it to her.

“Eat me!” it squeaked.

How adorable.

Her laughter bubbled up unrestrained. “Is it safe?”

He nodded.

She looked at the heart, hesitated, and then held it up to his lips. “You first.”

He opened his mouth and accepted the heart from her delicate fingers. He sucked on it and closed his eyes in delight. “Mmmm…” He leaned back against the iron railing and gave himself over to the joys of a little conversation heart.

Millie let out a breath. “Are you teasing me?”

He lifted a single eyelid. “Yep.”

Extracting another heart, he wrote, “Sweet Lips.”

He held it up for her. “Y-your t-turn.”

Buy Links:
Wild Rose Press    Amazon

About the Author:

heidikneale-small

Heidi Kneale is an Australian author of moderate repute best known for her escapist fiction–especially Fantasy and Romance. She lives in Western Australia, near the ocean. Like most humans, she’s got a family. She also associates with the World’s Most Boring Cat. When not writing novels, she composes music and stares at the stars.

You can find Heidi here:

Website/ Blog/ Facebook/  Twitter/

Goodreads/ Amazon/

 

BE MY LOVE, by J.C. McKenzie

Blurb:

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Broken-hearted and bitter, Brenna Jones plans to spend Valentine’s weekend at her parents’ cabin, reading romance novels and devouring heart-shaped candy. When her truck hits a snowdrift and plows into a bank—during a storm, no less—her plans take a drastic detour. Eric Buchanan, the playboy jerk from her past, comes to her aid. He’s her only option for reaching safety.

Eric can’t wait to escape his parents’ latest attempt to set him up. He’s given up on happiness, knowing he blew his chance at love a decade ago. When his snowmobile ride turns into a harrying escape from a blizzard, he discovers Brenna stranded in the storm. After he ensures her safety, he plans to explain the misunderstanding that tore them apart. Can a secluded cabin help Eric convince Brenna to be his love?

Excerpt:

Candlelight probably wasn’t a great idea. It wouldn’t exactly dampen the growing tension in the cabin, but at least it would distract her from the near-naked man a few feet away.

After searching a few drawers, she found the matches. She milled around, lighting candles and placing them in the kitchen and living room. The soft light flooded the room, adding shadows and the soft fragrance of vanilla. She didn’t use all of them. The candles and flashlight batteries needed to last. They might be holed up here for days.

Days.

Alone with Eric Buchanan in a candle-lit, secluded cabin.

Another deep breath.

She switched off the flashlight and turned to Eric. He sat in front of the fire, leaning back and supporting himself with his arms. The light from the roaring fire licked his chest and highlighted his well-defined abs.

As if he sensed the weight of her attention, he turned and his green gaze locked with hers. Images overtook her mind—their naked bodies entangled in the dancing light of the fire, his hard body pressed against hers, Eric leaning back wearing the same content expression he wore now as she straddled him.

A little devil popped up on her shoulder. You could have that.

Buy Links:

Amazon         The Wild Rose Press

About the Author:

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Born and raised on the Haida Gwaii, off the West Coast of Canada, J.C. McKenzie grew up in a pristine wilderness that inspired her to dream. She writes Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance.

Find J.C. Here:

J.C. McKenzie’s Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | TWRP | Amazon | Newsletter

 

 

 

 

WWW.CUPID by Annette Miller

Blurb:

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Allison McCall, supervisor in the Romance and Proposal Department of Cupid Corp., firmly believes rules are meant to be followed, yet her own love life is unfulfilling.

Preston Carlyle, Allison’s former boyfriend and one of her more creative agents, believes rules should be broken occasionally to give true love a chance. Only, he’s having a hard time convincing Allison and Cupid his techniques are working.

From the disastrous paperwork and the frequency of Allison’s visits to Cupid’s office on Preston’s behalf, she fears her position and his job are in jeopardy.
But when she finds out he’s requested a transfer to the Holiday Security Agency, Allison decides to prove she cares for him…even if it means breaking a few rules.

Excerpt:

“Come in, Preston, and shut the door.”

“Uh oh,” he said and the door closed with a quiet click. “Not even a please. What did I do this time?”

“This time?” Flinging open his file, she snatched the top paper off and shook it at him. “How about your recent trip to a major theme park? You were supposed to get the young man to propose during the fireworks show, but did you?”

Preston grinned. “Any rookie could have pulled that off. My idea was much better.”

Allison jumped to her feet and slammed her hands on her desk. “Your ‘much better idea’ just landed me in hot water with Cupid! I’m sick of being called on the carpet because you can’t follow the rules and do your job within the parameters of the file you’re given.”

“Come on, Allie. The fact he proposed while she was throwing up after getting off the roller coaster and she accepted, ought to count for something. Think of the great stories they’ll have to tell their kids.”

She narrowed her eyes. The fact he still insisted on calling her by her college nickname told her he’d never live up to become the agent she, and Cupid, she quickly added, wanted him to be.

“Their future relationship is not our department. Shape up or I swear I’ll ship you back down to Flowers and Poetry. As much as you complained about being there, do you really want to go back?”

He stared at her. “No, ma’am. But you wouldn’t do that to me, would you?”

“Yes, I would, in a heartbeat. We have to watch what we do and say these days. Cupid Corporation is merging with Aphrodite Enterprises. Any hiccup now could hinder the merger going through on time. You know how skittish Aphrodite can be. She’s already unsure she should go through with it. Now get your report written and in to me by the end of today. I’m still waiting for the ones from yesterday, too. And my name is Allison, not Allie. Please remember that next time.”

“Fine.” He gazed at her for a few moments. “You’ve changed, Allie, and I’m not sure it’s good for you.”

“I could say the same about you,” she said quietly.

Allison watched Preston leave, then sat, laid her head on her desk, and thumped her fist lightly against the stack of paperwork next to her. Why couldn’t he be the way he was in college? Why did he always have to do things his way? Why was the man so infuriating? She lifted her head before sitting back and smiled. And why did he have to look so adorable while he did it? If only he would follow the rules.

Sarah poked her head into Allison’s office. “So, not good?”

“No. We still on for lunch?”

“Of course.”

Buy Links:

Wild Rose Press      Amazon

About Annette:

I graduated from Mercy High in Baltimore, MD in 1981 and got married to an Air Force man in 1982. We have two amazing boys who have grown into amazing young men. We spent sixteen years in southern New Jersey, four of them at McGuire AFB and the rest in Hammonton. We currently live in Memphis, TN where science fiction, wrestling, and hockey take up what time the cat doesn’t.

Friend Annette Here:  Facebook

 

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