Stacey Joy Netzel's Blog, page 12

Sizzling Summer Reads--MORE THAN A KISS special excerpt

I'm taking part in The Romance Reviews Sizzling Summer Reads with MORE THAN A KISS, so I thought I'd share a special excerpt from the book.
~*~     “See you soon, love you guys,” Zach called over his shoulder before shutting the door and turning to Sadie. “I told you that would take forever.”      “It wasn’t that bad,” she protested as he pulled her to him and lifted her for a kiss.      “You told me we have all night, and then took forty-seven minutesto say goodbye to my family. That was torture.”      Arms wound around his neck while he held her off the ground at eye level, she asked, “If it was so bad, why are we still hanging out here on your parents’ porch?”      “Good point.” Zach set her back on the ground with a low growl and another quick kiss. “Follow me.”      Sadie did just that, her nerves winding tighter with each mile closer to his home. Too much time to think about how long it’d been since she’d been intimate with anyone. After three years, she felt like a virgin again. When she parked behind his car in the driveway, her stomach was a churning mass of anxiety and anticipation.      He was alongside her car, opening the door before she reached for the handle. There were two other vehicles in his drive. Voices carried on the sultry summer air and lights were on in his living room.      “You have company,” she stated with dismay.      “My cousins,” he confirmed. “They always stay with me when we have a family get-together on this coast.”      It was after eleven. No way was she walking inside, facing all of his guests, and then heading up to his bedroom. She wasn’t thatimmune to what other people thought, nor did she want to be.      As if reading her thoughts, he said, “We don’t have to go inside to get to the beach, Sadie.”      That’s right. A walk on the beach. She breathed a sigh of relief, and acknowledged disappointment at the same time.      “Although, they’re probably drinking wine out on the deck,” he added. “We’re gonna have to sneak through the neighbor’s yard. You up for a little covert ops?”      “Um, sure. Sounds like fun,”she agreed with a nervous laugh as she got out of the car.      “You might want to leave your shoes here,” he suggested. “Sexy as they are, those heels won’t make it through the sand.”      She leaned down to remove her first sandal. “You got a black knit cap for me to wear?”      “Nah. Wouldn’t help unless you took off that white shirt. Although...that is an idea.”      Though he was teasing, she glanced down at her blouse, standing out like a beacon in the dark. “Except my bra is white.”      “Then it’s gotta go.”      “You’re such a guy,” she accused, reaching for her second sandal as her nipples tightened at the thought of running topless with him through the dark.      “If it makes you feel better, I’ll take mine off. I’m all for equality.” He reached for the hem of his shirt.      She rolled her eyes and shook her head at his grin, and all she got was a glimpse of his mouth-watering abs when he dropped the material back in place. After tossing her sandals in the passenger seat, she leaned in and reached into the back to grab the blanket covering the old oil stain no amount of scrubbing had diminished.      Zach took the soft black fleece and tossed it over her head and shoulders.      “Oh, knock it off,” she said, pulling it off with a grin that matched his.      While she brushed her hair from her face, he took her hand to lead her across the driveway, through the privacy hedge and into the neighboring yard. Crouched down, they snuck through the dark like two fugitives. Sadie wondered if his heart pounded as hard as hers. They weren’t doing anything wrong, yet her adrenalin pumped strong.      “Ow,” he muttered. “Watch out for—”      Something scraped across her shin, then caught and dug into her skin. Sadie let loose a shriek and then quickly muffled her laughter when her brain made the connection to the scent of roses. She’d run into a fricken’ rose bush.      “Shh,” Zach chastised.      “Sorry.”      Two steps later, he stumbled, letting loose a low string of curses before sprawling at her feet. In the faint moonlight, she saw him lying on the ground next to a knee-high, chubby, red-capped statue. A dog started barking inside the house, but containing her giggles was impossible as Zach pushed back to his feet.      They’d almost reached the edge of the lawn when light flooded the lawn.      “You kids get out of my yard!”      “Oh, shit.” Zach took off at a run, pulling Sadie behind him. She stumbled along, dragging the blanket well down the beach until they collapsed on the sand behind a low sand dune, in the dark once more.      Catching her breath after their run would’ve been easy if she weren’t laughing so hard. Lying on her back, she rolled her head to the side to see Zach having the same problem.      “We suck at covert ops,”she finally managed.      “Hey, I’m not the one who screamed at a rose bush.”      “At least I didn’t get taken down by a garden gnome.”      He leaned over her, white grin flashing bright. “It was you or me, Goldie. I took one for the team.”      “My knight in shining armor.”      She lifted up to give him a quick smack on the lips, but the firm pressure of his mouth as he met her halfway ignited the residual adrenalin in her body like a match to gasoline. ~*~     Pick up your copy of MORE THAN A KISS today to see just how hot the beach can get after the sun goes down.     (You'll have noted there are two different covers for this book. See why here , enjoy both excerpts, and then grab your copy to enjoy the whole story!)
Amazon: Sand   http://amzn.to/AAMTAKSC                Black  http://amzn.to/AAMTAKDC BN:       Sand  http://bit.ly/BNMTAKSC               Black http://bit.ly/BNMTAKDC Smashwords, All Romance eBooks, Kobo

“From the classroom to the boardroom, directors to ducklings, Stacey Joy Netzel takes you on a fun, romantic joyride with two lovable people who are just trying to do the right thing in the cutthroat world of journalism and big business.” ~ Delia DeLeest, author of NOT LOOKING FOR TROUBLE
“I loved how Ms. Netzel penned this novel to be a rags to riches theme and she did so in such a realistic fashion the readers walked away believing the situation as if it truly happened to real people. This is another satisfying story I think the readers will love!” ~ Diana Coyle, Night Owl Reviews, TOP PICK

Thanks for Reading!!
Stacey Joy Netzel 

Off to Conference!!

Today I'm off to the WisRWA Write Touch Conference in Wausau, WI. I'm super excited to see friends I haven't seen in months and spend time with other friends I see more often but don't get as much time to visit with. This is a whole weekend of nothing but writing and fun and I can't wait!

"Romancing the Northwoods"
WisRWA's 2012 Write Touch Conference

Featuring NY Times & USA Today Bestselling Author:
Elizabeth Hoyt

And USA Today Bestselling Author:
Jade LeePlus workshops by:Lyn Cote
& moreEditor GuestsDiana Carlile, The Wild Rose Press Aubrey Poole, Sourcebooks Agent GuestsLauren Ruth, BookEnds, LLCBecky Vinter, Fine Print Literary ManagementSpecial Interactive Workshops & Events

WisRWA's Got Talent First Page Workshop
- Polish up the first page of your manuscript and bring 5 copies to registration for a live off-the-cuff agent & editor critique;

Well Writer Yoga with Angelique Sandas
- Connect body and mind with a workshop by a devoted instructor of yoga, embodying the spirit through its physical expression;

Silent Auction, Raffle & Book Signing for Literacy
- Bid on critiques donated by industry professionals!
- Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win donated baskets!
- Book Fair all day Saturday
- Come to the evening Book Signing for Literacy to have your favorite authors autograph their books for you!

And I can't forget to mention the Dessert Reception on Friday night. (Yes, I capitalized on purpose because it's a major event! *grin*) Sounds like fun, doesn't it?

For those of you who couldn't make it this year, I'll miss you!! (You know who you are. Luv and hugs!)

Have a great weekend everyone--I plan to!

Stacey Joy Netzel

Beach Book Blast!!!

ARE YOU READY??


Join me and the WG2E Street Team members for the Beach Book Blast--a chance for you to load up on FREE books for the summer, plus a ton of $0.99 bargain books. It's a perfect chance for you to try out some new authors and new genres--risk free!

Oh, and did I mention you could win a KINDLE FIRE??(donation thanks to the awesome D.D. Scott!)

Participating Authors: Dale Amidei, Meredith Bond, Debra Burroughs, Greg Carrico, Kristine Cayne, Cate Dean, Dana Delamar, Keta Diablo, L.C. Giroux, D.D. Scott, PJ Sharon, Alicia and Roy Street, Tracy Sumner, Kiru Taye, Tamara Ward

What am I offering with the BBB?

LOST IN ITALY  ~  FREE at AmazonDITCHED AGAIN  ~  $0.99  (regularly $1.99) at Amazon and Barnes & NobleDRAGONFLY DREAMS  ~  $0.99  (regularly $2.99) at Amazon and Barnes & NobleMORE THAN A KISS  ~  $0.99  (regularly $3.99) at Amazon and Barnes and NobleWhen you click the BBB image above, it'll take you to the blog for the listing of books, the 'buy' links, how to enter for the Kindle Fire, and don't forget to SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS!!  (yes, I did yell that because we're excited to share with all of you!)

Share this on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterist, Google Plus, Goodreads, and anywhere else there are readers who love great books.

Here's to a great summer!

Stacey Joy Netzel

Sunday Share: Bargain eBook Hunter Blog

Today I'd like to share the blog BARGAIN EBOOK HUNTER  and invite you to check them out!

Dedicated to hunting through the digital publishing world looking for eBooks at great deals (from FREE to $5.00)

From their ABOUT US page:

Welcome to Bargain eBook Hunter where we track the best ebook bargains!
What will you find on our site? We’re dedicated to hunting through the digital publishing world looking for eBooks at great deals (from FREE to $5.00) and putting them on our site to provide you, the reader, with a one-stop shopping experience. You will find titles that comprise the full gamut of styles from short stories to novels and from all genres.
With Bargain eBook Hunter, you’re never far away from a great reading experience or a great bargain, so stay tuned by visiting us often or by signing up for our free email or RSS feeds or by following us on Facebook or Twitter.
We hope you enjoy our listings as much as we enjoy bringing them to you.

Bargain eBook Hunter is one of those great blogs that finds deals for readers and also helps out us authors by featuring our books and getting the words out to those wonderful readers.



Thank you,

Cate Dean Author Interview

I'm happy to welcome Cate Dean, a fellow author I met through the Writer's Guide to Epublishing Street Team. I read her book When Walls Can Talk (fantasy novella) and am so impressed with her writing that I recommend you pick up a copy! She was kind enough to answer a few interview questions to give you a peak into her writing journey and life.

Hello, Cate! How did you get started in writing, and how long have you been writing for?

I've been writing for as long as I can remember. I've always made up stories in my head, and finally had to get them out! I got serious about it a few years ago, and here I am, a self-published author.
And I wish you much deserved success! What genre do you enjoy reading? Do you stick with what you write, or play the field?
I'll read just about anything, as long as it's well-written. I started in fantasy, and love that genre - I also write paranormal, because I am a sucker for the spooky and the supernatural, always have been.
What do you find most challenging in the writing process?
Typing fast enough.;) Seriously, though, for me it is getting to the heart of the story. I play the "what if" game, with the plot, a scene, my characters, just to dig deeper. And I never accept the first answer.
That's a great way to keep it fresh. Speaking of which, what do you enjoy most about the writing process?
The first draft. I usually write it in a dead heat, and when I read back over it, I don't remember writing half of it. So reading that draft through the first time really is like the first time.
Ever since finishing When Walls Can Talk I've been waiting for REST FOR THE WICKED--congratulations on the release! What do you have in store for readers next?
I am working on Book 2 of the Claire Wiche Chronicles, my paranormal series, which will be out in July. I am also outlining my next fantasy - book 1 of a YA time travel trilogy coming out early in the fall. And I have a couple short stories in the works - yep, I love to keep busy.

Cate Dean has been writing since she could hold a pen in her hand and put more than two words together on paper. She grew up losing herself in the wilds of fantasy worlds, and has had some of her own adventures while through the UK, and a few other parts of the world. A lover of all things supernatural, she infuses that love into her stories, giving them a unique edge. When she's not writing, she loves cooking, scaring herself silly in the local cemeteries, and reading pretty much anything she can get her hands on.
You can find Cate at:
Website: http://catedeanwrites.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/catedeanwrites
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/catedeanwrites

Cate's book LAST CHANCE JACK is part of the Beach Book Blast May 23-25th --so make sure you mark the calendar and head over Wed-Fri to grab a FREE copy! You can also enter to WIN A KINDLE FIRE!   

Thanks for your time, Cate, and happy reading everyone!

Stacey Joy Netzel

My Favorite Mother's Day weekend moment

"Stupid bass."

Let's rewind. We went up north to the lake this weekend to see my parents for Mother's Day and I woke up in the cabin on Saturday morning to those words.
Giant water beetle about 2 inches longShall we rewind a bit more?  Okay, my neighbor's husband found one of these critters and thought my kids would love to have it, so she brought it over in a Cool Whip container with holes poked in the lid. Yes, the kids thought it was so cool, so thanks Mark and Patti.

That container sat outside on our picnic table for 3 weeks, in the direct sun during the day, and all through the cold nights, with no food or changing of the water. I figured the thing was dead, but when we went up to the lake, my 10yr old daughter brought it with us (along with Little Toad in the coffee can) and we were sitting on the couch Friday night and kept hearing this scratching noise. My sister thought it was the toad, but then we realized it was the beetle swimming around in it's little container, desperate for freedom. Maybe he smelled the fresh water of the lake? Maybe he was just starving!

Saturday morning, I'm all snug in my bed when I hear the screen door slam and here's the story as my sister told it later.

We heard that bug scraping the sides of the container half the night, so when Morgan got up and headed outside, I asked her if she was going to set him free.

"Yep."

About ten minutes later the front screen door slams shut and Morgan comes in, pouting as she tosses the empty container on the table. "Stupid bass."

"What happened?" 

"I let him go, and he went swimming out to look for food, and a fish came and ate him!"

Now as my sister is telling the story, I recalled the words I heard while half asleep and knew it was coming, but still had to laugh. Morgan was standing right there and says "It's not funny!" But it was, and everyone we told the story to thought so, too. It's a story that's just too good not to tell.

Oh the irony for that poor, ugly giant water beetle. At least he was free for...5 seconds. LOL

And to give you all another smile for the day, we went up with Little Toad and the water beetle; we came home with Little Toad, a large injured moth Morgan saved from a robin attack, and a fat tadpole with tiny legs growing by his tail now named Soft Belly. She caught the tadpole in her shoe as she and her brother and Uncle Troy (my brother) were canoeing around the mud pond near the lake trying to catch painted turtles.

All I can say is thank God the brown snake Troy caught tried to bite them, and none of the chipmunks fell for the bait in the live trap Grandpa helped them set up.

Have a great week everyone!

Stacey Joy Netzel

Lost In Italy Character Interview: Trent & Halli

This interview was unveiled at World Literary Cafe, but I also wanted to post it here for readers to enjoy as the interviewer tried to have a serious talk with Trent from LOST IN ITALY. Halli had to jump in to try to keep him in line. Enjoy!

Stacey Joy Netzel

Interviewer:  For those who might not have read the book, please introduce yourself and tell us a little about the book you star in.

“Hi.  I’m Trent Tomlin, here to tell you all about Lost In Italy. Yes, I’m that Trent Tomlin—the movie star.  But first the book, then we’ll get to me.  I’ve given some thought as to why Stacey Joy Netzel used that title, since we were never technically lost. Well, Halli thought she was for a little bit, but seeing as I kidnapped her, I knew where she was all along. I guess her siblings were lost, so that makes sense, but the book is about our journey—mine and Halli’s—not Ben and Rachel, so maybe it doesn’t. Plus, they didn’t really get lost, they were taken hostage.”
“Oh, boy.  Can I interrupt here, Trent?”
Trent turns toward the shadows off-set where the female voice came from:  “By all means, sweetie pie.”  (leans forward to say very quietly)  “Halli Sanders, my better half.”
Halli:  “Stacey decided on Lost In Italyfor two reasons.  One, I was lost for at least the first three or four chapters.”
Trent:  “But—”
Halli:  “And two, we were both figuratively lost until we found each other.”
Trent:  “Figuratively lost?  I think you’re over thinking it.”

Halli:  “If anyone is over thinking it’s you.  Just tell them about the book.”
Trent shrugs:  “Well, apparently, Lost In Italy is a book about two figuratively lost people who find each other.”
Halli: “Trent.”

Trent:  “Along the way there are car chases, gun fights, suspicion of trafficking of endangered animals, murder, hostage taking, daring rescues, a bit of drinking, some great lovemaking, more action—”

Halli:  “I think the readers are looking for something more like a DVD back cover blurb.”
Trent:  “Oh.  In that case... Halli Sanders spent two years planning the trip of a lifetime to Italy. Her itinerary did not include being stranded by her siblings, kidnapped by a sexy American movie star—I love the sexypart of that by the way—dodging bullets, or fleeing criminals in a car chase around Lake Como. And that’s just in the first three hours.  Trent Tomlin—”
Halli:  “They can read that on the back of the book.”

Trent huffs in frustration:  “Then why do I have to explain it?”
Halli:  “They want it in your point of view.  A brief description of what the book is about.”

Trent:  “It’s a hundred and twelve thousand words.  That’s three hundred and forty-five single spaced print pages.  You want me to be brief?”
Halli:  “Yes.”
Trent thinks a moment:  “Lost In Italy is a wild ride of action and adventure, with some murder and danger thrown in for good measure.”
Halli groans:  “Too generic.  You lived it, Trent, tell the readers what it’s about without giving away the plot.”
Trent:  “This is too much like work.  Where’s my script?” (quickly glances in the direction of Halli’s growl)  “I’m kidding!  So...be brief.  Okay, here goes.  The catalyst of the story is my brother Sean’s death a couple months earlier. The Italian police ruled it a suicide but I didn’t believe them, so when the book starts I’m investigating with a retired Italian cop and Halli accidentally video tapes that cop getting shot by the suspects.  I kidnap her to keep her safe, the killers take her brother and sister hostage to negotiate for the evidence, and that’s when the action and adventure begins.  How’s that?”
Halli:  “Good as it’s going to get, obviously.”
Okay, then, moving on... We all want to be different, so what is the one thing you wish Stacey had done differently with you?
Trent:  “She could’ve made me less handsome. I mean, being undercover is hard when all the girls—”“Trent!”
Trent winces, grins, and then turns an innocent expression toward Halli: “What?”
Halli:  “Put the ego away for the interview.  There’s enough of it in the book.”
Trent turns back:  “Okay, fine.  I’ll tell you this, I wish Stacey had given me superhuman powers or something.  Being invincible would’ve been great because getting shot really hurts.”
Halli: “I said don’t give away the plot!”
Trent:  “All I said is getting shot hurts.  Everyone knows that.”
Halli:  “And now everyone knows you get shot in the book.”
Me and Troy on my research trip to
Italy this past fall...and yes, this is
the same brother (he's my only brother)
who left me behind in 1996Trent:  “So?  There’s lots of guns and shooting, so it stands to reason someone got shot.  At least it wasn’t you.”
Halli:  “Oh my God, would you shut-up?  You’re going to ruin it for them.”
Trent rolls his eyes:  “She’s bossy in the book, too.”
Halli:  “I am not.”
Trent:  “You are too.”  (swivels to glare into the shadows) “Whose interview is this, anyway?”
Silence from the wings.
Trent swivels back:  “That’s right.  I apologize for my producer’s interruptions.  Please continue.”
If you could have added something to the story, and Stacey would have let you, what would that have been?

Trent:  “Seriously, super human powers.  Then I could’ve taken down Alrigo, and Lorenzo would—“
Halli:  “Don’t give away the plot!”
Trent throws up his hands:  “I’m not going to.  Geez.  But come on, don’t you think it would’ve been fun to leap buildings in a single bound?  Fly through the air?  Catch a bullet with my bare hand?”
Halli:  “It’s a romantic suspense, Trent, not a paranormal fantasy.  And if you could’ve done all that, Stacey wouldn’t have had to write about you kidnapping me to save me, and we probably never would’ve met.”
Trent frowns, contemplating Halli’s retort:  “I hadn’t thought of it that way.  I guess I’m okay with being shot.”
Halli:  “You guess?”
Trent:  “You know what I mean.” (motions with his hand for the next question)  “Quick—move on before I dig myself deeper.”
What do you love best about yourself? What do you like least?

Trent:  “What do I love best?  Come on, what kind of question is that when I’ve been ordered to keep my ego under wraps?  I’ll get yelled at for anything I say.”
Halli:  “You make me sound like a nag.”
Trent:  “I don’t make you sound like anything, sweetheart.  But wait, I got it.”  (under the guise of shifting in his director’s chair, he leans forward to whisper) “And she’ll love this.”  (sits back again and speaks normal)  “What I love best about myself is that I’m smart enough to recognize a good thing when I see it.  I got the girl, didn’t I?  Shain never sticks around for more than a kiss or two and a little bit of fun.  He’s totally missing out.  Never should’ve left Emma in High Lonesome. Come to think of it, I’m going to have to talk to Eastwood about that.”
Halli:  “If they haven’t read the book already, they may not know who Shain is.”
Trent: “That’s right.  Sorry.  Shain West is the old west movie character that made my career. He’s to me like Indiana Jones is to Harrison Ford.  Only younger and better looking.”
Snort of laughter from the sidelines, and then Halli:  “Can you imagine if he didn’t try to control his ego?”
Trent, ignoring Halli: “To answer the other part of your question, what I like least...?”  (rubs his chin thoughtfully)  “My lack of humility.  I mean, I really wish I could learn to—“
Halli:  “Oh, pluu-eese.  Next question, for everyone’s sake.”
What part of the book was the hardest for you and Stacey to work through?

Trent: “Well...I’d have to say she had a hard time convincing Halli to warm up to me.  I mean, she already knew how charming I could be, but Halli—”
Villa Bottini in Lucca, Italy
view from the back gardenHalli:  “That’s something Stacey and Ihad to work through, not you.”
Trent:  “And I’m so glad you did, baby.”
Halli:  “Can you try to be serious for one minute and answer the woman’s question?”
Trent’s smile fades:  “I barely talk about stuff like this with you, and now you want me to tell complete strangers?”
Silence.
Trent sighs.  More silence as he contemplates his boots and fiddles with the leather stitching on his western costume vest:  “The stuff with my dad wasn’t easy.  And my brother Sean.  I told you his murder started all this, and it really took me awhile to believe in my heart that his death wasn’t my fault.” (glances toward the shadows) “I have Halli to thank for that, and her tenacious stubbornness.  Which then made the end of the book that much harder, too.  There was the one part where I thought...” (pauses, swallows hard, and shakes his head) “Let’s just say, trying to keep her safe took about ten years off my life.”
Halli:  “And you still look great, honey.”
Trent’s serious expression softens to a loving smile.
Is there a sequel for this book? If so, what do you want to accomplish in the next book.  If not, do you wish you could continue your story?
Trent:  “Sequel—yes! You see the rock I put on her hand? Our story is nowhere near ended. But since the next one is Ben’s book, and Halli and I had enough adventure to last us for a few years, we’ll confine our excitement to the bedroom.”
Halli:  “Hey!”
Trent leans forward to whisper again: “She’s still shy about things like that in public. It’s so cute.”
Halli stands up and moves into the light, holding her phone:  “You’re due back on set in five so we’re going to have to wrap things up.”
Trent’s million-dollar movie star grin lights up his face and his ego visibly rushes forward:  “That’s her excuse to get me alone. Now that she acknowledges my irresistibility, she’s on me all the time.”
Halli: “Trent!  That’s it, interview’s over.”
Trent’s sexy laughter echoes across the soundstage:  “Isn’t she beautiful when she’s angry?  Sometimes I rile her up just to see those blue eyes spark.”
Halli’s gaze narrows.  She crosses her arms over her chest.
Trent lifts his palms up to ward off her advance:  “Easy, sugar.  One more question and then I’m all yours.”
Do you have anything else you'd like to say? 
Trent:  “I have a question for you.  If you end up talking to Ben, can you find out what happened with that Italian hottie, Evalina?  Because he refuses to talk about her.  They were supposed to go to dinner, and—”
Halli:  “She’s not going to talk to Ben, his book isn’t written yet.  You want to find out what happened with Evalina, you’ll just have to read the book after Stacey writes it.”Trent:  “Well that’s not fair.  Sleeping with the main character’s sister ought to get me more than that.”

Halli:  “It gets you great sex.  Now thank the readers for letting you waste their time and let’s get going before Clint texts me again.  Your massive ego is holding up production.”

Trent grins and winks:  “See?  Irresistible.  But on a serious note, I do thank you for taking the time to sit with me, and Halli, to talk about when we were Lost In Italy.” (he leans close)   “Hopefully my joking didn’t get too out of hand.  Truly, Halli’s the irresistible one, just don’t tell her I said that—I’m already at her mercy.  And you’re definitely going to want to watch for Ben and Evalina’s story.  If Ben’s not talking, I’ve got a feeling it’s going to be one hell of a book.”
While Trent and Halli were along the shores of Lake Como, Ben and Evalina
will be traveling through the more rural parts of Italy. Storm clouds over Rome as Troy and I drove
into the city the night before we flew home.
Get ready for another wild ride as Ben and Evalina...
RUN TO ROME
(Coming soon!)

Pick up your copy today to finish the wild ride!

Amazon

BN: http://bit.ly/BNLostInItaly (after May 30, 2012)
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/SWLostInItaly (after May 30, 2012)(formats for iBook Store, Sony, Kobo, PDF, EPUB and other ereaders)Thanks so much for reading and reviews are always greatly appreciated!

Sunday Share: Gargoyles, by Alan Nayes

Today I'm happy to welcome back Alan Nayes. His guest spot for BARBARY POINT is my 3rd highest viewed blog post, he's the author of SMILODON, a book I LOVED, and today he's sharing with us an excerpt from his 5 Star rated book GARGOYLES.
3 lucky commentors will receive a Smashwords coupon for a free copy of this book. At Smashwords you can download the book for any ereader format.

Take it away, Alan!

GARGOYLES (Resurrection Trilogy, Book 1) by Alan Nayes
Genre: Sci fi/ thriller
Buy Links: Amazon Barnes and Noble Smashwords
Pre-med student Amoreena Daniels becomes a surrogate mother in order to pay for her mother's cancer treatment and unwittingly becomes a pawn in a high-stakes game of biomedical experimentation. GARGOYLESis the first book in the Resurrection Trilogy series.
Excerpt:
Prologue 
Somewhere near Itzimté Ruins, Guatemala, rainy season
   She turned her first trick four months shy of her thirteenth birthday. Patricio had been a small man, only a boy really, being just two years older than she. His father had been a teniente in the security police that patrolled Mexico City, and he’d paid sixty pesos for Gabriella’s services. Gabriella wasn’t her real name then, but it was the name she’d used while plying her trade, and it was how she was currently registered at Las Canas.
   Now, three years later, the teenage girl with the truculent almond eyes sat huddled under a gnarled tree limb, seeking refuge from the tropical shower. Her skin glistened moistly from sweat and precipitation, and she could smell her own fear above the pungent odor of the earth.
   Gabriella stroked one hand across her gravid abdomen, then quickly climbed from the security and cover of the lush vegetation to resume her flight along the muddy carretera that would eventually lead her to San Andres. Nightfall was fast approaching. She pressed onward, prodding herself another half kilometer, though her feet and thighs cried out for rest. Surrounded by miles of unfettered jungle that comprised the Guatemalan lowland rain forests, she longed for a shortcut. There was none. And carved out of this most intimidating habitat in all of Central America was Las Canas.
   Wump. Wump. Wump. Wump. Los helicopteros. The choppers.
   “Mi bebé!” My baby. Gabriella dashed back under the gloomy cover of the rain-forest canopy. She would rather risk an encounter with el tigreor even Desmodus rotundus, the loathsome bloodsucking vampire bat.
   Wump. Wump. Wump. Anything but the choppers. She could never return to Las Canas. Never.
   Gabriella clutched desperately at her stomach. It heaved with each laborious breath. She couldn’t maintain this frenetic pace; it was impossible. She forced herself to think through the tears, through the pain. She might still stand a chance if she could thwart their initial assault.
   Wump. Wump. Wump. Wump.
   “Que mierda,” Gabriella cried out.
   Her hands protected her eyes as she stumbled farther through the thick underbrush. Thorns ripped at her skin, and vines threatened to ensnare her ankles as if they possessed wills of their own.
   She tripped, stumbling forward. Terror gripped her like a giant anaconda. Her breaths catapulted from her convulsing chest in short gasps.
   Oh Dios, por favor, she prayed. Please, God. If she could just make it to the Itzimté Ruins before dark.
   High above her head, the canopy of epiphytes, vines, and towering ferns gyrated into a living tempest. The powerful downdraft from the Sikorsky’s blades created a whirlwind of flying debris.
   Gabriella threw herself on the forest floor, cowering under the onslaught of tangled vegetation.
   Wump. Wump. Wump. Wump.
   “No!” she cried. “No!”
   With nothing to cling to but remnants of past dreams, Gabriella began to pray. She prayed for herself. She prayed for Las Canas. But mostly she prayed for the bebés.
   The men from the plantatión de azúcarwere coming.
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR
          Alan Nayes was born in Houston and grew up on the Texas gulf coast. He lives in Southern California. He is the author of the horror/thrillers, GARGOYLES (Resurrection Trilogy, Book One) and THE UNNATURAL. His most recent releases are BARBARY POINT, SMILODON, GIRL BLUE,  PLAGUE (Resurrection Trilogy, Book Two) and RETURN TO UNDERLAND, a children’s adventure story. 
         An avid outdoorsman and fitness enthusiast, he is one of only a few individuals to ever swim across Wisconsin’s chilly Lake Winnebago. When not working on his next project, he enjoys relaxing and fishing at the family vacation home in Wisconsin.
         Read more about Alan Nayes at http://anayes.com/  and in the interview below.
Alan, how did you get started in writing, and how long have you been writing for?  Stacey, I started out the conventional way. I completed a manuscript, found an agent and eventually—after numerous rejections—sold to a big six publisher. Unfortunately the book didn’t do well so for some years I found myself adrift in the Nopublishing Sea. Then the ebook opportunity came floating by, so here I am an indie author, as well as a trad pub author-- GIRL BLUE was recently released by Samhain in April, 2012.  I am both traditional and indie at this time and have been writing for almost two decades, if you don’t count my brief foray into song writing while in college. And no, I can’t sing too well, lol.
My kids tell me I don't either, but what do they know? LOL  What genre do you enjoy reading? Do you stick with what you write, or play the field? I enjoy most genres—I usually don’t choose a book to read based on what genre the story falls in but more so based on the story itself. By the same token, when I’m deciding on my next project, it’s the story that must capture my interest and if it does, then regardless of the genre I’ll attempt to write it.
What do you find most challenging in the writing process? That’s easy to answer, finishing the book.  Ideas seem to come without too much difficulty but actually planning out a full length novel is always a challenge for me. Also, research—I’m not too keen on researching material. I’d rather just make it up, though that doesn’t always work. Readers are pretty astute.
What do you enjoy most? Several things are really enjoyable for me in the writing process, Stacey. As an author yourself you have to admit it’s a great feeling when you finally finish that first draft. For me anyway, I’d much rather rewrite than face a blank page or screen. However what I really find fun is when I receive an email from someone what tells me how much they enjoyed my story. That’s a great feeling. Or if they are reading a series and are wondering when the next book will be out—love that too.
Yes, I agree, writing The End is pretty great. But you also nailed it with hearing from someone about my book.  So, what do you have in store for readers next? (I'm hoping for a SMILODON sequel one of these years.) I have several projects in the works, Stacey. HEMLOCK  POND  is a horror story about a woman and her young son who move into an old farmhouse with a haunted pond. THE LEARNER is a paranormal love story that I’m still in the process of hashing out. It will be compelling, though, I hope. I’m also just beginning work on the third book in the Resurrection Trilogy—RESURRECTION. Hopefully, I’ll have it out sometime this summer.
Thx again for having me on your blog, Stacey.
You're welcome, Alan--good writers are always welcome here. *grin*
Comment for your chance to win one of 3 copies of GARGOYLES (Book One of the Resurrection Trilogy) ~ or buy your copy now: Amazon Barnes and Noble Smashwords
Stacey Joy Netzel

New Release: More Than a Kiss

I'm very excited to announce my newest release is now available for your reading pleasure!

"Why two covers?" you ask? Because I paid for both, I like both, and as an indie author, I can offer both so readers can choose the one they like best. I'm actually quite curious to see if one sells better than the other.

“From the classroom to the boardroom, directors to ducklings, Stacey Joy Netzel takes you on a fun, romantic joyride with two lovable people who are just trying to do the right thing in the cutthroat world of journalism and big business.” ~ Delia DeLeest, author of NOT LOOKING FOR TROUBLE

When a kiss...
All reporter Sadie Barton wants is to be taken seriously and judged on her own merits, not her stepfather’s money. She and her actress sister left Wisconsin to get out from under his controlling thumb and leave behind the malicious whispers that they’re no better than their gold-digging mother. But California isn’t all sun and fun, and paying the rent while trying to prove herself is harder than she ever imagined.
...is more than a kiss...
Something about Sadie drew self-made millionaire Zach Robinson—and it wasn’t just the amazing kiss they shared as impromptu actors in his company's commercial. He’s used to women being interested in his wealth, and Sadie’s fierce independence is an enticing breath of fresh air. He’s falling fast—until his brother suggests acting runs in her family and Sadie might not be exactly what she seems...
Read an EXCERPT or get your copy now...

(Dark Cover Edition) AMAZON , BN , Smashwords, All Romance eBooks


(Sand Cover Edition) AMAZON , BN
Thanks for stopping by to check out the blog and new release, and have a great week!
Stacey Joy Netzel

More Than a Kiss

"Why two covers?" you ask? Because I paid for both, I like both, and as an indie author, I can offer both so readers can choose the one they like best.

“From the classroom to the boardroom, directors to ducklings, Stacey Joy Netzel takes you on a fun, romantic joyride with two lovable people who are just trying to do the right thing in the cutthroat world of journalism and big business.” ~ Delia DeLeest, author of NOT LOOKING FOR TROUBLE

When a kiss...
All reporter Sadie Barton wants is to be taken seriously and judged on her own merits, not her stepfather’s money. She and her actress sister left Wisconsin to get out from under his controlling thumb and leave behind the malicious whispers that they’re no better than their gold-digging mother. But California isn’t all sun and fun, and paying the rent while trying to prove herself is harder than she ever imagined.
...is more than a kiss...
Something about Sadie drew self-made millionaire Zach Robinson—and it wasn’t just the amazing kiss they shared as impromptu actors in his company's commercial. He’s used to women being interested in his wealth, and Sadie’s fierce independence is an enticing breath of fresh air. He’s falling fast—until his brother suggests acting runs in her family and Sadie might not be exactly what she seems...


EXCERPT:


The moon-lit water beckoned and he sauntered over to stand in the doorway leading out to his oceanfront deck, soaking in the sounds of the gilded surf.
Bottle to his lips a few seconds later, he froze when he caught sight of familiar blond curls and a cotton-candy-pink T-shirt. One more swallow was all he could manage without choking from the sudden leap of his heart into his throat as Sadie walked toward him along the upper deck that ran the length of his house.
He lowered the beer, then had to lift his hand again to wipe the liquid trickling down his chin.
“Hey, everything okay? How’s Gemma?”
“She’s still sleeping.”
Zach was about to ask if she needed anything when he noticed her fingers were knotted together at her waist. He briefly noted her jeans and bare feet before returning his gaze to her face. Her smile wavered as her attention slid down to his bare chest before darting in another direction.
Face freshly washed, she looked nervous as hell and younger than ever.
He took pity and held up his bottle. “I was just having a drink. You want one?”
She shook her head no. Switched to a nod. Then laughed. The pretty sound shot an arrow of desire straight to his groin.
“Do you have a soda, maybe? Or a drink is fine, too.”
Zach flicked on the recessed lighting under the cupboards before opening the fridge to reach for another bottle.
“But not beer. I don’t like beer. Or anything hard.” After a one second pause, she added, “Liquor wise, I mean.”
Thank God he was facing away and had swallowed his last mouthful of beer, or he’d have spewed it all over at that last clarification. He managed to keep his laugh silent, but a wide grin split his lip open again as he relished the possibility of her thoughts running parallel to his.
The smile remained in his voice when he shut the door and straightened to ask, “How about a Sprite?”
“Sprite’s good.”
He handed her the can. She popped the tab, and then stared at his mouth without taking a drink. He hoped the stretchy material of his boxer briefs held up.
Finally, she sipped the soda, and then asked, “You got some ice in that fridge?”
“Sure.” He reached to put down his bottle to get her a glass and some ice, but she waved him away.
“I got it.”
Zach leaned against the edge of the sliding door and watched her wet a hand towel from next to the sink. She dropped a half dozen cubes in, gathered up the edges and turned toward him.
Ice pack. Made sense. Why hadn’t he thought of it?
Moonlight bathed her curves and glinted in her hair, silver blending with gold.
Dumb question.
He held out his hand, but she pointed outside to a deck chair and ordered, “Sit.”
Somewhat bemused by her switch from nervous Nelly to militant nurse, he took a pull off his beer and did as he was told. Sadie sat on the wide arm of the chair with her back to him before twisting around to reach for his face.
“You should’ve iced this right away.”
The first touch of the cold cloth on his sore lip triggered a reflexive jerk away. He hissed air through his teeth before relaxing to let it out slow.
She raised her other arm and laid her palm along his stubble covered jaw to hold him still. It seemed strange, her fussing over him like this when he could take care of himself. Warmth spread from her touch and started his heart thudding in his chest. As if someone smacked him upside the head, he realized this was the closest she’d gotten to him since they’d kissed on the set of the commercial. Voluntarily, anyway.
With her concentration fixed on his mouth, Zach let his gaze wander over her long, down-swept lashes, smooth skin, and enticing lips. Discomfort shifted to center below the waistband of his shorts. Didn’t help that she had the corner of that lush, lower lip caught between her teeth again. He wanted to nibble.
When he raised his gaze to find her watching him, his pulse stuttered. Color stained her cheeks, but she didn’t break the connection.
“I didn’t thank you yet,” she said softly.
“Sure you did.”
His grip tightened on the cold bottle in his hand. Shut up, idiot! Let her thank you however she wants.
“Not for taking me to get Gemma, I didn’t. Or helping us get out of there and taking the hit for us.”
“Two,” he reminded, throwing in a grimace for good measure. “I took two hits.”
A smile tugged the corners of her mouth upward. “Don’t worry, I was counting.”
“Good.”
She lowered the hand with the ice pack to rest on his shoulder, bracing herself as she leaned closer. The minty freshness of her breath filled his nostrils and he swallowed hard at the thought of tasting it on his tongue.
“So...anyway...thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
Zach held still, afraid to even breathe in case she changed her mind. Anticipation sizzled through his body and what had been a refreshing ocean breeze now became a teasing caress on his heated skin.
Sadie’s lashes lowered as she closed her eyes and pressed her lips to his. Stomach muscles tightened in his effort to lean into the kiss, but she pulled away.
Well, damn. He had two chances here and one was already over? To hide his disappointment over the all too brief contact, he joked, “That’s one.”
The thumb of her right hand whispered across his lips. “How does your mouth feel?”
“Cold.”
He barely had a chance to draw a breath before she leaned in for take two.
~~~~~
I hope you enjoyed the excerpt and if you want to read the whole book, click on one of these links:


(Black Cover Edition) AMAZON , BN , Smashwords, All Romance eBooks



(Sand Cover Edition) AMAZON , BN
Happy Reading!