Category Archives: The Wild Rose Press

March 21, 2023 · 12:18 am

An interview with #writer STELLA GRAE

I’ve got a brand new-to-me- author and WRP sistah here today for a visit and an interview. I’m so excited to introduce you all to STELLA GRAE. Let’s get to know her a bit and then take a glance at her new WILD ROSE PRESS book JUST CALL ME CONFIDENCE releasing March 22, 2023

Stella…take it away.

Stella –The Writer

1. What drives you to write?

For me, writing has always been cathartic. I write when something bothers me, upsets me, or when I’m trying to process something. So, writing has become almost this extension of my personality. And, I just love creating an alternate reality where I might want to live…for a just little while at least.

2. What genre(s) of Romance do your write, and why?

I write erotic romance, which I had never thought I’d do. When I first began writing, romance writing was at the bottom of the list. Honestly, I was very frustrated with my lack of success in other areas, so I thought, “Why not?” and the words, plot, characters—everything flowed really well. I’m very fascinated with sexuality. I will often look at people and wonder how they are sexually. I know…it’s odd, but for me, erotica is as much about the psychology as the sex.

3. What genre(s) of Romance do you read, and why?

I prefer romance with a dark twist. I have read and enjoyed Pepper Winters writing. I love that the characters are allowed to evolve and triumph out of dark, gritty situations.

4. What’s your writing schedule? Do you write every day?

I do not write every day unless I have a work-in-progress that is pulling me to it. Some weeks that means I may write every day, but usually I devote part of a weekend to writing. Since I teach, I do a lot of writing during the summer and on breaks.

5. Give us a glimpse of the surroundings where you write. Separate room? In the kitchen? At the dining room table?

I have devoted a corner nook in my bedroom as my writing space. The gorgeous old table that my family used when I was a kid is my desk. It’s a little cluttered, but I am essentially an organized person. I love the table because I can see the indentations in the wood that spark a lot of memories. It’s a very comfortable place for me to be mentally as well as physically.

6. 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 really like quiet. I am bothered by background noise, so I do writing in the early morning or late at night.

7. Do you listen to music while you write, and if so, what kind? If not, why not?

No! I honestly don’t know how people do that. I might be able to do some classical music, but usually silence is best. Now, I can be inspired to write by a song, but that’s it.

8. How did you come up with the plotline/idea for your current WIP?

So, this will be an interesting answer because most authors pull some part of themselves into a work, even if it’s just their own personal fantasies. Just Call Me Confidence and its sequel, which I’m working on right now, were both born of a failed relationship. I was lonely in the relationship, but didn’t want to do anything stupid, so I created characters and situations that were based a little on reality, but twisted them to create the kind of relationship that I actually had wished I had. The relationship fizzled, but the plot sizzled, as they say.

9. Which comes first for you – character or plot? And why?

I’d have to say that the plot comes first, but the character and his or her conflicts will come a close second. I often think about real people and their stories—why something is the way it is, or how it could be—and can flesh out a story pretty quickly. The characters have to be spot on though for a story to click, and that’s why, for me, character development really drives that plot.

10. What 3 words describe you, the writer?

Intelligent, determined, and passionate.

Stella –The Gal

  1. Tell us one unusual thing about yourself – not related to writing! I love to work with my hands, especially on home improvement projects. I’ve tiled a bathroom, put in flooring, installed crown molding. I even have my own saws, levels, and such.
  2. Who was your first love and what age were you? I was young—maybe first grade—and I had a crush on this boy named Greg. I just thought he was wonderful, but he only had eyes for someone else. I can’t remember why I liked him, but I do remember that by middle school I had a mild obsession with Rick Springfield.
  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…. I think I would relive the day that I was with my grandmother, brother, and other family on a train trip to the West. We were going across the Continental Divide and it was just magic—the scenery, the people I loved—I just could live that feeling of majesty over and over. It was very humbling to know, in a moment, how blessed you are.
  4. What’s one thing you love about your significant other? I absolutely love that my significant other gets me and my writing. He isn’t jealous of the time I put in to it and really lifts me up. He’s so encouraging!
  5. If you had to give up one necessary-can’t-live-without-it item, what would it be? Pencil and paper—I’d go crazy if I couldn’t write things down.
  6. What three words describe you, the person? Intelligent, kind, and independent. (Peggy here – loves those descriptions!)
  7. If you could sing a song with Jimmy Fallon, what would it be?  “Tide Is High” by Blondie. It’s a fun, feel-good song that Jimmy would like and I love Debbie Harry’s voice—she sings in my range, so I’d sound somewhat decent.
  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? There are so many great characters, but I think I’d hang out with Edward from The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. While it’s geared toward kids, that story has one wise bunny! He makes the best of any situation and keeps himself open for love, even if it’s fleeting. I like to hike and cook, so I imagine that Edward and I would do both because he likes that independent, vagabond life. I could make some cowboy beans over a fire, build a little shanty, and we’d philosophize under the stars.

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

  1. Favorite sound I love nature sounds—birds singing, leaves blowing in the wind, little animals scurrying. It’s so peaceful and humbling.
  2. Least favorite sound Loud talkers. I cannot stand loud talkers.
  3. Best song ever written Well, I’m going to pick something suggestive because I write erotica, right? So, a song that’s always in my line up is “Physical” by that late, great Olivia Newton John. I fell in love with the Xanadu soundtrack and “Physical” is just a perfect combination of seductive lyrics and music.
  4. Worst song ever written I’d say I’ve always disliked the Carpenters—“Rainy Day and Mondays.” Her voice is like nails on a chalkboard to me.
  5. Favorite actor and actress George Clooney is my favorite actor; he’s always very natural, and easy on the eyes. My favorite actress is Kate Winslet. I loved her in Revolutionary Road. She seems very genuine, and I love that she embraces her age—bravo!
  6. Who would you want to be for 1 day and why? ( It can be anyone living or dead) I think I’d like to be Queen Elizabeth. Can you imagine the secrets she took to her grave and the things she’s seen? I could take that information and write some great stories.  Plus, a castle, a carriage, corgis, and servants—yes, please!
  7. What turns you on? A great vocabulary and a kind heart.
  8. What turns you off? A person who is narrow minded and unkind or rude.
  9. Give me the worst 5 words ever heard on a first date ( here’s mine: “Is that your real hair?”) You have a stripper’s body.
  10. What’s your version of a perfect day? My perfect day begins with a snowy morning in a cabin, freshly brewed coffee, and a day completely dedicated to writing. I’d see some sun later for a quick hike, then a nice fire—and more writing!

And now, here’s a little about Stella’s book:

Jenna Craig is a 40-year-old freshly-minted “hot momma” looking for a little love in her post-divorce life. After a night out with her cougar tribe, she wonders whether she’s still got “it”—the double-takes from the college clowns at the bar quickly put her doubts to rest. Though she may be alone, she knows she’ll never be lonely.

Jenna’s newfound confidence is buoyed by some swim club eye candy: Travis the lifeguard. Hot trysts in the locker room leave her wondering if she might want something more. When her naughty, new boy toy introduces her to his friend, Collin, Jenna is engulfed with waves of emotion that she thought she might never feel again. With two younger men vying for her heart, will she choose the perfect guy for right now, or the man who could give her another shot at love?

The experienced Ms. Craig is certain of one thing: She better bring the confidence to pull off the choice of her desire.

“I’m glad we’re friends, and that you think nothing of racing to my house to help me with my man woes, and my panties. But you know what I appreciate most?”

“You appreciate my sarcastic, brutally honest, down-home wit?”

“No, the fact that you don’t judge me or what I do, or don’t do. You’ve never said you think I’m acting like a whore.”

Fielding hugs me and doesn’t let go. Patting me on my back she responds, “I’ll never stoop to calling you a whore because you’re simply acting like a woman with a man’s morals.”

Get your copy here: AMAZON

Stella Grae is an unassuming English professor, copyeditor, and copywriter living in Lexington, Kentucky. She’s the author of the short story “Power Play” that was originally published in the website erotica journal Oysters and Chocolate. In her spare time she enjoys sipping on bourbon, nibbling cheesy grits, and philosophizing about love and sex in her blog, “Bone Up,” which can be found on her website: stellagraeerotica.weebly.com…along with other sexy tidbits.  This is her first erotica novel.

You can connect with Stella here:

Website: https://stellagraeerotica.weebly.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sgraeerotica/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SGraeErotica

AllAuthor: https://stellagraeerotica.allauthor.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/159637845-stella-grae

Email: stellagrae@proton.me

Amazon Central Author Page:

www.amazon.com/author/stellagraeerotica

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January 8, 2023 · 12:50 am

A Visit the author Norm Harris; #audiobooks #suspense

So it’s rare when I have a gentleman visit this blog. I’ve had a few – all of them Wild Rose Press authors, and today that trend continues. Fellow Rose Author, Norm Harris consented to an interview and after it he’s telling us about the process by which he had two of his books made into audiobook offerings.

Here’s the interview first… Norm, take it away.

Norm, The Writer…

1. What drives you to write?

When I get an idea for a story I want to put it down in words shortly after.

2. What genre(s) do you write, and why?

The genres are, women’s fiction, military, thriller, suspense, legal, organized crime, science fiction-time travel, paranormal, and espionage. Why, because I am a veteran, have a legal background, read far too many Ian Fleming books, and have seen every James Bond movie many times.

3. What genre(s) do you read, and why?

Unfortunately, I do not have time to read.

4. What’s your writing schedule? Do you write every day?

The last time I wrote was the summer before last. From the beginning of April until the end of August, I wrote three novels. Then it was every day.

5. Give us a glimpse of the surroundings where you write. Separate room? In the kitchen? At the dining room table?

I have a septate room with a large Tv/monitor. I sit in a deeply padded recliner and try not to fall asleep. I bring up Word and have the keyboard on my lap and type away.

6. 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?

Because all of my books are derivatives of the stories told in rock music songs I often have music going on.

7. Do you listen to music while you write, and if so, what kind? If not, why not?

Every novel I create is based on the theme of several rock songs.  Brandy and Some Velvet Morning were for the Navy/legal thriller Fruit of the Poisonous Tree, End of the Innocence was one of the base song inspirations for the organized crime legal thriller Arid Sea, Sympathy for the Devil for the espionage paranormal thriller The Girl Who Knew Death. To name a few. I using will mention the song somewhere in the novel, but not always.

8. How did you come up with the plotline/idea for your current book?

For my current audiobook, The Girl Who Knew Death, the plot developed, in part, as a travel log of my experiences in Cario, Moscow, and Paris. I simply retold the setting. I liked the Tv series Lucifer and the song Sympathy for the Devil, the films Meet Joe Black and Death Takes a Holiday. And I got lucky. For the audio I got one of the Lucifer cast members to narrate it for me.

9. Which comes first for you – character or plot? And why?

Because my books are the Spider Green Mystery Thriller Series the character comes first. I come up with a plot and put my protagonist into the plot.

10. What 3 words describe you, the writer?

Creative, funny, and smart.

Norm, The Person

  1. Tell us one unusual thing about yourself – not related to writing!

It would be my dry and warped sense of humor. I am a regular comedy act at work every day.

  1. Who was your first love and what age were you?

I do not recall. I am going to guess my mom on the day I was born?

  1. 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….

Perhaps the day my son K-K graduated from law school;. He worked so hard over the years to achieve it. On that day he was so happy and proud of himself it is not a day to forget.

  1. What’s one thing you love about your significant other?

I don’t have one of those. But I am not opposed to finding one.

  1. If you had to give up one necessary-can’t-live-without-it item, what would it be?

The race car I have owned for the past thirty years.

  1.  If you could sing a song with Jimmy Fallon, what would it be?

You are so Beautiful.

  1. If you could hang out with any literary character from any book penned at any timeline, who would it be, why, and what would you do together?

Ian Fleming inspired my books. My protagonist Faydra Green is the female James Bond. I would ask Ian to review one of my books and I would discuss writing with him while sipping martinis…shaken, not stirred; Three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet, shake it over ice, add a thin slice of lemon peel.

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

  1. Favorite sound

Cha-ching!

  1. Least favorite sound

When the garbage truck backs up beep beep beep.

  1. Best song ever written

Go Your Own Way    Fleetwood Mac and Dirty Paws …Of Monsters and Men and Brady…Looking Glass and Sympathy for the Devil…Stones is the best song ever. 

  1. Worst song ever written

It’s so bad I don’t know it.

  1. Favorite actor and actress

Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper. And John Wayne.

  1. Who would you want to be for 1 day and why? ( It can be anyone living or dead)

Biden so I could straighten out some of the things he has screwed up.

  1. What turns you on?

Snickerdoodles

  1. What turns you off?

Idiot drivers

  1. Give me the worst 5 words ever heard on a first date ( here’s mine: “Is that your real hair?”)

“Pick me up at the halfway house.”

  1. What’s your version of a perfect day?

A day when I make it start to finish without a problem occurring.

Audiobook production:

The production of the audiobooks were easier and faster than writing the novels they were produced from. I self-produced Deception Pass and The Girl Who Knew Death using ACX and the Audible/Amazon option. The process included first choosing a contract/royalty option with ADX. Next, a short excerpt is submitted for auditions. Once the auditions are received a narrator is selected. A contract between the producer and narrator is agreed and signed. The narrator’s fees have been agreed upon. I chose a royalty split and an hourly fee for narration. The narrating fee is hourly. It is arrived at by dividing 9,300 into the total manuscript words. If the narrator is charging $100 per hour then the resulting narration fee is the result.

The narrator next delivers a 15-minute sample. When approved, the production begins. When finished, I review the total audio and if satisfied I sign off and the narrator is paid. Amazon and Audible review and approve the audio for sale. Both create a web sales site. Because my e-books and paperbacks had Amazon sales pages the audio was added.

This is a very simple process. One that is much faster than the creation of a novel.

Buy links: amazon

Audible:

Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/norm.harris.3386  

Norm comes from a family of authors and publishers. In 1830 Great grandfather, several times removed, Martin Harris published the first printing of “Book of Mormon.” Later Norm’s son K-K wrote “Drones-Proposed Standards of Liability”, published by the Santa Clara High Technology Law Journal.

With writing and publishing in his veins, Norm created a fictional Spider Green Mystery Thriller Series in both print and audio-book versions. Norm Harris’ first novel debuted on an Amazon bestseller list over ten years ago. It was a one-and-done, but he returned to writing two years ago with a plan to publish the mystery/thriller of days gone by.

Except for time spent in military service, he is a second-generation Seattleite (that’s what they call those who dwell in the shadow of Mt. Rainier), with his legal beagle son, K-K, and five giant tropical fish. Norm’s stories spring from his memories of people who he has met and the places he has visited as he traveled the world. Diversity, inclusion, and equality are foremost in each story.

“Fay is an admirable, tough, brilliant protagonist.” said one reviewer. Said another, “Lt Commander Faydra Green … is a “take no prisoners” protagonist…” While Norm’s agent suggested protagonist Faydra Green reminded her of James Bond.

Thank you for listening and reading and if you enjoyed the stories please consider leaving a review!

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March 24, 2020 · 12:00 am

#coping during #covid19 The #NewNormal , part 1

As we get into the second week of our self-isolation and social distancing practices, I thought I’d ask a few of my author friends for tips on how they are coping. After all, most writers already are experts at self isolating. We spend the better part of our days alone, in our writing caves.
I sent out the call to my writing peeps, and, as always, they didn’t disappoint. In fact, I got so many responses, I decided to do a two-parter for this post, today, and this Thursday, so stay tuned and checked back on Thursday!
Here are a few ways we are all attempting to get through this trying time!
First, me. If you know me you know I love to cook and bake. Well, my husband has been having a  real eating feast for the past 13 days from my baking attempts. I’ve made a series of muffins that are almost gone on a daily basis! Click on the video link to see my latest endeavor:

Video- baking

I’ve also started posting my MORNING MOTIVATIONS again every day on my Instagram account as a way to stay positive and give encouragement. Here’s a recent one:

Fellow ROMANCE GEM Caroline Clemmons told me this is how she and her husband are coping:
~ More time to read—yay!
~ Keeping up with friends via Facebook and text and messenger so we don’t feel isolated
~ Our Sunday School class is having our lesson by conference call (since not everyone can Skype).
~ Our church has online services
~ Binge watching a TV series on Amazon Prime
~ Continuing to write my stories
~ My husband plays with his ham radio or watches documentaries and Ted talks
Fellow Wild Rose Press Rose, D.V. Stone does this:
I love to make soup. Cutting up vegetables is quite cathartic to me. Adding and building flavors leading to fragrant and hearty comfort food which is also healthy for us.
Bonus:
Take precautions and pack it up in individual containers to share it with friends or family. Call ahead and leave it on their porch.

Another WRP sistah and fabulous writer, Kristal Dawn Harris sent me this lovely, and thought provoking note to share, since she is in a high risk category, health-wise:

“Like so many of you, I’m stuck at home adhering to safety protocols for the Coronavirus pandemic. I am in the high-risk group because of a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome. I only go out for food, make sure I keep my distance, and wash my hands, as well as my clothes, and anything I buy, upon returning home. As an author, I am used to spending long periods alone, but that doesn’t mean I don’t succumb to boredom, miss people, or need a break from writing.
There are many projects I have been wanting to do around the house, such as painting the bedroom, and now I have the time. I also get outside, in my own yard, when the weather cooperates. I’ve ordered seeds to plant a garden, so I should be able to do that soon. I exercise, listen to music, watch movies, read, and I’m thinking of cleaning out the garage (my husband will be so happy…lol). I am always searching for interesting articles online about places I’ve never been and weird topics, and sometimes I post them to my social media accounts.
With Skype, I can talk to and see my children and other family members when all else fails. There are so many ways to fill your time, so don’t let the quarantine ruin your life or your mind!  Humans are curious creatures by nature and there are plenty of ways to satisfy that side of yourself!”
Writer, friend and talented author Jennifer Wilck shared this with me:
“This self-isolation is anxiety-producing and kills my concentration. I’m an introvert by nature (a friendly one, though) and while my own personal habits don’t need to change much, having the other three members of my family home in my space definitely requires some adjustment. Some of the ways I cope are:
1) Each morning I remind myself that “this too will pass” and I tell myself how lucky we are.
2) I make sure to get exercise—the elliptical machine in the basement and walking around the neighborhood. I ask the rest of my family to join me on my walks, or I walk with a friend (keeping our 6-foot distance, of course) so that the blood gets pumping, the endorphins flow, and I have someone to talk to. And we try to discuss things other than the state of the world.
3) I try to keep to a schedule, so I feel productive. I follow a to-do list and cross things off as I do them. I make plans for later in the week, and give myself down time as well.
4) I cook or bake or try to find new uses for leftovers.
5) I clean—both for preventing Covid and for spring cleaning.
6) I read or watch TV or both.
7) I check in with my family and friends to make sure everyone is okay. It makes me feel better to think of others.
Hope you’re coping as well. And remember, this will eventually end.”
Another Rose sistah, Jana Richards had this to say:
I’ve had trouble with my back and sciatica, and I’ve found that regular exercise, especially stretching, is vital. So when my gym and my Pilates studio closed ( because of the virus), I started to worry. Fortunately, my yoga teacher found a way to offer live virtual online classes at the same times as our in-house sessions were scheduled to happen. I was sent a link and tuned in at the appointed time. It was fantastic! I felt connected to my instructor and so enjoyed hearing her familiar voice. I not only was able to stretch and strengthen, but felt a bit of normalcy in times that are anything but.

A quick Internet search will show you lots of online classes and exercises, many of them free. I found this one from Orange Theory that I’m going to give a try. So the moral of my story is that we don’t have to give up completely on exercise during this difficult time. Your body and your mind will thank you.

One of my dearest writing friends, the ubertalented Donna Simonetta  had to postpone her planned vacation last week and is having a staycation instead. Here’s how she’s been coping:

As a writer, I work from home. So, with my husband working from home too, I’m having LESS alone time than normal during this time of self-isolation. Haha! .One happy thing happening in our world is that Spring has sprung here in Maryland, and we’re enjoying all the flowering plants and trees in our yard and neighborhood. We take a little stroll around our yard every day to look at our daffodils and camellias.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Writer Jean Grant’s take on self isolation mimics mine:

“It’s almost like ( as writers) we were made for this, right? I already deal with a lot of isolation and loneliness…now add in my husband and two kids, and home-school schedule — oof!

I’ve been listening to music and audiobooks, reading, and getting on walks. Staying physically active is important to mental health. I normally walk and exercise 4-5x a week. I love Denise Austin’s videos – she is a positive lady and still super fit at 62. She’s even offering live feeds and free videos during this time. I take walks in my neighborhood (with family or alone) and on local (quiet) trails, and I’ve started some spring garden work (though more snow is coming Monday). I’ve been baking, too. Cleaning/purging/sorting. Indulging in happy movies. Creating a schedule for my children has helped us, as they thrive on routine. Drinking my usual amount of coffee. ;-)”

One more for today: Writer Wendy Kendall, also a Wild Rose Press sistah, has this to offer to help you get through these trying days:

All kinds of music is helping me cope. Especially new kinds I never tried before, but also my favorites and familiars and tunes id forgotten. Music is a whole other way to tell a story, whether with lyrics or not. It lifts the spirit and touches the soul. Whether I’m listening while doing something else, or I’m focused only on the song, I am relieved and I am not alone.
Peggy here: All of these are thought provoking ideas, no?? I love them and can see how each is so helpful.
Don’t forget to check back on Thursday for more great tips from all my friends!! Remember: together, we can all get through this – even if we are isolating!! Hee hee
 And remember: 

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December 1, 2019 · 3:56 am

#CyberMonday is tomorrow…Are you ready?

When I was a kid 175 years ago there was BLACK FRIDAY and then regular shopping days until Christmas.

Welcome to the new world, peeps.

CYBER MONDAY starts at midnight tonight and Cyberspace is predicted to be the most jammed it’s ever been this year with people looking for great sales on gifts.

Well, because the marketing end of the publishing business never takes a day off, I, too, am offering up  some great ( in my humble opinion!) sales items. 2 of my books are marked down to just 99 cents on Amazon, Book, and Itunes.

 

CHRISTMAS & CANNOLIS, my award-winning San Valentino holiday romcom is on sale for 2 weeks here: Amazon  Nook  Itunes

With Christmas season in full swing, baker Regina San Valentino is up to her elbows in cake batter and cookie dough. Between running her own business, filling her bursting holiday order book, and managing her crazy Italian family, she’s got no time to relax, no room for more custom cake orders, and no desire to find love. A failed marriage and a personal tragedy have convinced her she’s better off alone. Then a handsome stranger enters her bakery begging for help. Regina can’t find it in her heart to refuse him.

Connor Gilhooly is in a bind. He needs a specialty cake for an upcoming fundraiser and puts himself—and his company’s reputation—in Regina’s capable hands. What he doesn’t plan on is falling for a woman with heartbreak in her eyes or dealing with a wise-guy father and a disapproving family.

Can Regina lay her past to rest and trust the man who’s awoken her heart?

 

And my indiebook IT’S A TRUST THING in on sale exclusively at Amazon.

Nell Newbery has trust issues. It’s hard to trust when you’re the daughter of a fallen financial scion who bilked people out of billions. Nell’s done everything in her power to keep away from men who see her as their ticket to fortune and fame. All she wants to do is run her ultra-successful business, HELPFUL HUNKS, in peace.

But it wouldn’t hurt to find a guy who doesn’t know a thing about her father’s felonious past; one she can give her heart to and trust it won’t come back to her battered, bruised, and broken.

Is Charlie Churchill that guy? On the surface he seems perfect, all polished manners and quiet mirth. Nell’s convinced he knows nothing about her, other than she likes superhero movies and views junk food as a food group.

Can she trust him to be what he appears to be? Or is he just pretending?

For Nell, trust is everything in life…and in love.

So, if you are shopping in your jammies, haven’t brushed your hair or teeth yet, and are looking for a great book deal for the Romance book reader on your holiday list – or if you just want to gift yourself a good book – I hope you’ll take advantage of my sale.

Be well and happy shopping!
Until next time ~ Peg

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November 7, 2019 · 12:46 am

#preholiday sale on 3 Romance Books

I know.

Halloween was just last week and already the stores, radio waves, television ads are nothing but holidayholidayholiday ads! I stopped going to Hallmark stores when they started selling their Christmas ornaments after July 4th, so you can guess how I feel about the commercialization of the season.

But….

I don’t think it’s ever too early to read a Holiday-themed book, especially if it’s on sale. I currently have 3 books on sale ( 1 holiday, 2 not) and if you’re wanting to just fade away and escape into a good book for a while and ignore all the hullaballoo about shopping, online sales, etc, reading one of these just might help! And yes, I know that’s a shameless plug, but what can I tell ya?! hee hee

HOPE’S DREAM (DEERBOURNE INN) is just 99 cents on Amazon //Nook // and Apple books for a limited time

Hope Kildaire gave up her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner when a car accident killed her father and left her mother an invalid. Working two jobs and caring for her mother leaves the twenty-seven-year-old with no time for fun or relationships. When a law firm representing her paternal grandparents sends her several letters, Hope ignores them. She despises the family who disowned her father and wants nothing to do with them.


Lawyer Tyler Coleman’s job is simply to obtain Hope’s signature on a legal document. Getting it is harder than planned, though, when an unexpected attraction blossoms between them. If Ty is honest with Hope about why he’s in Willow Springs, he’ll fulfill his assignment but may risk hurting her.

The opportunity to have everything she’s ever desired is at Hope’s fingertips. Will her dream come true at the expense of Tyler’s love?

*** HOPE’S DREAM was the second book released in the DEERBOURNE INN series from Wild Rose Press.

COOKING WITH KANDY ( Will Cook for Love, Book 1) & A SHOT AT LOVE (WCFL book2) are also just 99cents right now. If you love to read about sexy chefs, Hot FBI agents and Private Eyes, these books will help you slip away from the stress of the pre-season!

Kandy Laine built her wildly popular food empire the old-fashioned way—starting with the basic ingredients of her grandmother’s recipes and flavoring it all with her particular brand of sweet spice. From her cookbooks to her hit TV show, Kandy is a kitchen queen—and suddenly someone is determined to poison her cup. With odd accidents and threatening messages piling up, strong-willed Kandy can’t protest when her team hires someone to keep her safe—but she can’t deny that the man for the job looks delicious. . .

Josh Keane is a private investigator, not a bodyguard. But with one eyeful of Kandy’s ebony curls and dimpled smile, he’s signing on to uncover who’s cooking up trouble for the gorgeous chef. As the attraction between them starts to simmer, it’s not easy to keep his mind on the job, but when the strange distractions turn to true danger, he’ll stop at nothing to keep Kandy safe—and show her that a future together is on the menu. . .

Photographer Gemma Laine is looking for arresting faces on the streets of Manhattan when her camera captures something shocking—a triple murder. In that moment, she becomes a target for the mob—and a top priority for a very determined, breathtakingly handsome, FBI special agent. With deadlines to meet and photo shoots on her calendar, Gemma chafes at the idea of protection, but every moment she spends under his watchful eye is a temptation to lose herself in his muscular arms . . .

With two of his men and one crucial witness dead, Special Agent Kyros Pappandreos can’t afford to be distracted. But Gemma is dazzling—and her connection to Kandy Laine’s high-profile cooking empire makes her an especially easy mark for some very bad people. Keeping her safe is much more pleasure than business, but as the heat between them starts to sizzle, Ky is set to investigate whether they have a shot at love . . .

**Both are also available in Kindle Unlimited

Happy reading, peeps!

Until next time ~ Peg

 

 

 

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October 6, 2019 · 5:43 am

#SundaySnippet 10/6/19

Since I’ve got a book on sale this week, I thought today’s snippet should be from that. Makes sense, no? Hee hee

Here’s a little sumthin’ sumthin’ from FIRST IMPRESSIONS, one of the MacQuire Women books. It takes place in New England in the fall and follows Clarissa and Pat on their rocky road to a happily ever after.

This is the blurb:

Family Practice Doctor Clarissa Rogers’ first impression of Padric Cleary is biased and based on gossip. The handsome, charming veterinarian is considered a serial dater and commitment-phobic by his family and most of the town. Relationship shy, Clarissa refuses to lose her heart to a man who can’t pledge himself to her forever.
Pat Cleary, despite his reputation, is actually looking for “The One.” When he does give his heart away, he wants it to be for life. With his parent’s marriage as his guidebook, he wants a woman who will be his equal and soul mate in every way.
Can Pat convince everyone – including Clarissa – she’s the only woman for him?

“Have you ever been friends with a girl before?”

“Have a beer and shoot some pool friends? Or the kind with benefits?”

When she laughed out loud, he tried to think what was so funny.

“Have you ever just been friends with a girl without sex mixed into the equation?”

“Not since I was sixteen,” he admitted and felt his neck heat.

“That’s what I thought.”

“Why?”

She cocked her head. “It’s no secret I’m attracted to you. I think the way I just responded to you proves it. But I don’t jump into bed with a man just because I’m attracted to him.”

“So, what’s being friends got to do with anything?”

Clarissa sighed and leaned a hip against the doorjamb. “I’ve been hearing about your reputation with women since I moved here, and I’m not looking to be the flavor of the week, Pat.”

He stared at her for a second as hurt washed through him. “You don’t sugar coat things do you?”

She reached out and gripped his forearm. Her hand felt so good against his skin, he instinctively laid his own over it. He swore he saw a flash of lightning spark from underneath his fingers.

“I don’t mean to insult you, but I’m trying to build a professional reputation in this town and I don’t want to do anything to give gossip mongers any fuel.”

“And dating me would?”

“Dating anyone would. This is a small town and everyone knows one another. But like I said, you have this rep where women are concerned.”

“I’m not going to apologize for liking women, Clarissa. I’m a guy.”

“That, you are.” Her lips split into a huge smile.

Intrigued? You can read the rest of the story at any of these venues for just #99cent right now. The sale ends of 10.18, though, so act fast!!! Amazon /// Nook /// Ibooks

Until Next time ~ Peg

 

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October 4, 2019 · 12:08 am

It’s #October and that means….a #booksale for a #fallthemed Romance!

This is exactly what it looks like in my little piece of Heaven in NH right now!! I love the fall colors, and they seem especially bright this year.

In honor of my favorite season, I’ve got one of my MacQuire Women books on sale for #99cents right now, and it just so happens to take place in the fall!!! FIRST IMPRESSIONS tells the story of Pat and Clarissa. The scene in the apple orchard while they are gathering apples for pie is one of my favorites!

Family Practice Doctor Clarissa Rogers’ first impression of Padric Cleary is biased and based on gossip. The handsome, charming veterinarian is considered a serial dater and commitment-phobic by his family and most of the town. Relationship shy, Clarissa refuses to lose her heart to a man who can’t pledge himself to her forever.

Pat Cleary, despite his reputation, is actually looking for “The One.” When he does give his heart away, he wants it to be for life. With his parent’s marriage as his guidebook, he wants a woman who will be his equal and soul mate in every way.

Can Pat convince everyone – including Clarissa – she’s the only woman for him?

You’ll have to read the book to find out the answer!

On sale now at: Amazon /// Nook /// Ibooks

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September 21, 2019 · 6:37 am

Start your holiday reading early this year with books from…me!

A little self aggrandizing, I know ( Hee hee)

But the premise is clear – there are so many great Holiday themed books out there to choose from, if you start reading now, you’ll make it through the holidays, probably with some books to spare!

Here are my 3 most current Holiday themed romances:

HOPE’S DREAM ( Deerbourne Inn #2)

*** this title is available in E-copy only and is 98 pages long.
What if everything you’ve ever dreamed about was given to you but you had to sacrifice your heart to obtain it?

Hope Kildaire gave up her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner when a car accident killed her father and left her mother an invalid. Working two jobs and caring for her mother leaves the twenty-seven-year-old with no time for fun or relationships. When a law firm representing her paternal grandparents sends her several letters, Hope ignores them. She despises the family who disowned her father and wants nothing to do with them.
Lawyer Tyler Coleman’s job is simply to obtain Hope’s signature on a legal document. Getting it is harder than planned, though, when an unexpected attraction blossoms between them. If Ty is honest with Hope about why he’s in Willow Springs, he’ll fulfill his assignment but may risk hurting her.
The opportunity to have everything she’s ever desired is at Hope’s fingertips. Will her dream come true at the expense of Tyler’s love?

Readers who like the following stories will like HOPE’S DREAM: Sweet romance, Small town romance, Independent woman, family, moving on, grief and loss, New England, Deerbourne Inn series, Contemporary romance
HOPE’S DREAM is the second book in the DEERBOURNE INN SERIES from WIld Rose Press

Buy Links: Amazon // Nook // iTunes// Kobo

A KISS UNDER THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Can a kiss under the Christmas lights lead to a forever love?

With Christmas just a few weeks away, Gia San Valentino, the baby in her large, loud, and loving Italian family, yearns for a life and home of her own with a husband and bambini she can love and spoil. The single scene doesn’t interest her, and the men her well-meaning family introduce her to aren’t exactly the happily-ever-after kind.
Tim Santini believes he’s finally found the woman for him, but Gia will take some convincing she’s that girl. A misunderstanding has her thinking he’s something he’s not.
Can a kiss stolen under the Christmas lights persuade her to spend the rest of her life with him?

Buy Links: Amazon //  Barnes and Noble // KOBO // Google Play

CHRISTMAS & CANNOLIS

Can a second chance at love heal a broken heart? 

With Christmas season in full swing, baker Regina San Valentino is up to her elbows in cake batter and cookie dough. Between running her own business, filling her bursting holiday order book, and managing her crazy Italian family, she’s got no time to relax, no room for more custom cake orders, and no desire to find love. A failed marriage and a personal tragedy have convinced her she’s better off alone. Then a handsome stranger enters her bakery begging for help. Regina can’t find it in her heart to refuse him.
Connor Gilhooly is in a bind. He needs a specialty cake for an upcoming fundraiser and puts himself–and his company’s reputation–in Regina’s capable hands. What he doesn’t plan on is falling for a woman with heartbreak in her eyes or dealing with a wise-guy father and a disapproving family.
Can Regina lay her past to rest and trust the man who’s awoken her heart?

Readers who enjoy the following kinds of stories will love CHRISTMAS & CANNOLIS: big families, Holiday romance, RomCom, surviving loss, moving on, foodies, bakers, Christmas

Buy Links: Amazon//  B&N // Google Play // Kobo // itunes

I’ve got a few Holiday romances on my kindle right now, so I’m gonna go get reading! Enjoy, kids.

Until next time ~ Peg

 

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September 5, 2019 · 5:15 am

#NNLightsBookHeavenBookathon #septemberreads

 

Calling all readers! Have you read all your beach reads over the summer and are looking for new books to dive into this month? We’re celebrating books from all genres at N. N. Light’s Book Heaven’s second annual Fall Into These Great Reads Bookathon. 51 books featured plus a chance to win one of the following:

Enter to win a $50 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

Enter to win a $50 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

Enter to win a $25 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

Enter to win a $15 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

Enter to win a $10 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

I’m thrilled to be a part of this event. My book, FIRST IMPRESSIONS, is featured today!. Wait until you read why I think my book is a must-read in September. You won’t want to miss it. Click here: Bookathon

Bookmark this event and tell your friends:

https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/fall-into-these-great-reads-bookath

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August 15, 2019 · 12:03 am

Book sales, Amazon rankings, and being dropped by a publisher….yeah; happened to me. Twice.

There are so many days I wish I’d started writing fiction for publication in my 20’s. That would have been the height of the 1980’s where writers lived like kings, publishing houses hired publicists for their talented authors and book tours really involved actually touring to different places and not all over the internet.

I peaked too late, it seems.

In a time where major, traditional book publishers are dwindling as fast as an anorexic’s weight, book sales can mean the difference between a royalty check and getting bounced by your publisher for lackluster – or nonexistent – sales. Here’s my cautionary tale and lament.

You all know I’ve had a long standing publishing relationship with the WILD ROSE PRESS, who I love beyond all else!!! I’ve also had three books published by Kensington/Lyrical and recently, a new series contracted by Limitless Publishing. The series for Lyrical was originally seven books, but they dropped me after the third was published. Why, you ask? I was told at the time is was because the line was moving in a different direction away from romance and more toward cozy mysteries. And yet I still see new authors being promoted monthly with Lyrical romance releases.

Hmmmm.

After the recent publication of DIRTY DAMSELS, book 1 in the DotComGirls series ( 3 books planned), I submitted the second book in the series, HELPFUL HUNKS, only to be told the company was not going to be publishing any more of my titles due to lackluster sales. When I submitted book 2, book one had been out in the world for a total of 3 weeks.

3 friggin’ weeks!

How many sales were they hoping I’d get in that time frame? I didn’t even have a book promotion planned until august when  I got back from RWA so I could devote time to it. I did a ton of preorder promotion and hoped my opening day sales reflected all that work. I was in London during the release and tracked my ranking the entire time I was there. According to my amazon results, I had the best release week of my life, with the second week even better. And this is my first book in Kindle Unlimited, which you don’t even see included in your ranking.

How can that possibly mean lackluster sales?

I think the major mistake I made was in submitting the second book so soon. I should have waited at least three months to do so. I don’t even get a royalty check until the end of this month, so that’s going to be interesting to see. The publisher was obviously basing contracting book 2 based on book 1 sales, which, at that time, weren’t even in.

Lesson learned.

I used to wonder why so many authors self published. I’m starting to get it, now.

And…because the promo never ends, don’t forget I’ve got a 99cent sale on  for DEARLY BELOVED until August 23rd. If you haven’t read it yet, do so soon because book 2, TODAY, TOMORROW, ALWAYS releases soon and you’ll want to know what’s going on in the lovely town of HEAVEN, NH before it does!

get your copy here:

amazon // B&N // ibooks

Until next time ~ Peg

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