Zara West's Blog, page 16

Romance Writer Patricia Bond And Her Writing Life

~ Plot Bunnies Everywhere ~

I met Patricia Bond at the Western New York Writer’s Conference, and I k new right away this fellow writer wrote special books. Today she shares her writing life, her inspirations, and her plans for future romances. Her sweet romances are just perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Welcome, Patricia…

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

What’s to tell? I’m married, four children, two grandchildren and a set of twins on the way. I live in Western New York. We often take a lot of ribbing about our winters here. Just lately, we had the dubious benefit of a major lake-effect snow. I say benefit, because when it all melts, it does replenish the water table around here. And it’s pretty while it’s falling, and freshly fallen with the sun sparkling on it. Not so much though, when you have to shovel two feet of the stuff off your cars and driveway, and then do it again after the plows go through.  Yeah – timing is everything!

What do you do when you’re not writing?

 Hah! Maybe the question should be, “What don’t you do when you’re not writing?”  I have way too many interests and hobbies. Reading, of course, tops the list. I am almost always into two books simultaneously, if not more. I do almost anything involving fiber arts except quilting. Never quite got into that. Thank God. But I do knit – pretty well if I do say so, and embroider, do counted cross-stitch, sew. I used to crochet a lot until carpal tunnel go to be too much of an issue. I also do amateur photography. I’ve been lucky enough to win first place in Arts from my local Art Guild twice now. I would love to learn to paint. And garden. Sadly, God has blessed me with a purple thumb, and so I must console myself with running a Horticultural Hospice Unit, and lovingly send any plants that find their way to me to that Great Garden in the Sky. And, for better or worse, I am addicted to travel.

  Do your travels influence your writing?

Yes, very definitely!  Many years ago, my husband was deployed for a short time as a part of relief personnel for NATO forces in France.  This was before 9/11, but tensions were high overseas.  When he told me about having to go to “some little town in France” for a while, I HAD to look it up.  When my trusty old atlas gave me the info, my first reaction was, “Six weeks in the south of France? Nooo.  I don’t think so.” But with four children at home, no passport and no overseas travel experience, it took a bit of planning.

My dad had served in France during WWII, and I grew up on his war stories – the good kind.  The very good kind, about the French people he’d met and interacted with, about their welcoming and patience. He worked procuring supplies for one of our generals there (no powdered eggs for that general), and so had a lot of interactions with local farmers and vintners. Suffice to say, Dad was very sympathetic to my desire to see the country, and he offered – kind of – to watch the kids for me for a week. It might have entailed a bit of begging on my part, maybe a whiny tear or two, but he took the job. Whatever happened – or didn’t – while I was gone, I’ll never know. I’ve never gathered the gumption to ask them about that week, and I think I’m happier that way.

For me, that week in France was wondrous. My husband had a schedule change, because of course, it’s the military, and had to work most of the time I was there. I wound up sightseeing on my own for the most part, which was a mixed blessing. I missed having company, but I was free to go where I wanted and spend as long or short a time as I wanted, and like my character Diana in From My Balcony, I chose cities to visit like you would choose candies from a dish.

 Obviously, when I found Cassis, it made a huge impression on me.  Just an afternoon in that charming place was all it took to imprint itself on my heart so strongly, that when I first got the idea for From My Balcony there was never any doubt where I was going to set it.

Where is your favorite place to write?

 My favorite place is outside, sitting on my glider swing. No computer. Just me, my notebook and pencil (yes, I do my first draft longhand), the birds, the breeze and the grass – so long as it isn’t freshly cut. I sneeze too much.  But given where I live (you know, that snow thing) that only works for part of the year. The rest of the time, I flop around the house looking for a quiet corner to curl up, because I’ll still do that first draft in pencil. I do have an “office” though it carries too much detritus from all those hobbies and interests, and so can be more distracting than anything else. I keep promising myself I’m going to take it in hand and turn it back into the writing cave it was in the beginning. And I’ll do that. Someday.

Where do you get your ideas?

Oh, gosh.  You know, like any writer, that’s the one question I can count on to be asked.  And I’ll give you my standard answer. Anywhere. Everywhere. I always say it’s more a state of mind than anything else. A word, a picture, an overheard snippet of conversation in the supermarket or restaurant (careful what you say out there!).  Just about anything can turn into a plot bunny if my mind is in the right place. Sometimes it’ll be a name that just creates a character in my head. Jack Christmas is waiting for the rest of his story to be born. Sometimes it’s something I see in a store window. I actually bought a fan while on vacation one year not because I was so hot, but because I saw it in the hand of a secondary character in my first historical. When I created the character, she was a grandmother, but this fan belonged to her as a young woman, and I just know there’s a story in it together with a piece of jewelry she treasures. I just realized I speak of these characters in the present tense, and yes, they are alive… in my head. And traveling brings so very many plot bunnies….  Somebody will have a story set in an English castle. Or maybe French. Or a French vineyard. Or an Italian villa. Or an Adirondack lodge.  These things breed….  No wonder they call them “plot bunnies.”

What other genres of novels would you like to write?

 I’d love to write mysteries if I could plot worth a darn.  I’ve already put a bit of paranormal into a story. I think I’d like to play with that a little more. As a reader, I get bored reading the same ol’ same ol’. I have to think other readers are the same. And changing it up a little keeps it fresh for me as a writer. We’ll see. I could surprise us both.

Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

My first published book was a historical romance, By Love’s Honor Bound. It was set in America, in the D.C./Baltimore area just before the Civil War starts. Which was great. Except I was trying to market it at the time when Regency romances were all the rage. No one wanted to look at a historical unless it had a Duke or an Earl in it. I was getting roundly rejected on all front,s and it made me wonder if I really belonged doing this. And what was wrong with the book. One publisher said it read too much like a category historical. Another publisher who did publish category historical (this was so long ago, at that time there was more than one category publisher) said it read too much like a mainstream historical. An agent who said she could tell you what was wrong with any book and how to fix it, told me there was nothing wrong with it, except that it was set in America. Since the sub-plot dealt with the Underground Railroad, there was little I could do to “fix” it.  It sat around for a number of years while I tried my hand at numerous other stories, but the only ones that really spoke to me were others also set in America. Like most things in publishing, I had to wait for the pendulum to swing back a bit, and to wait for the right publisher to come along. I got lucky on both fronts.

Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?

I’ve been in a kind of limbo lately, not entirely sure what I want to work on next. The Grand Plan calls for more historicals. I wrote a Christmas historical, “Building a Christmas” that won the award from Uncaged Book Reviews magazine as Best Holiday Romance for 2018, and I think I need to plumb the other characters from that story. There’s more to them than is revealed in that story. And Granny and her fan keep hanging around my head, as does the brother of the main character in that book. And Jack Christmas waves every now and again, just to make sure I don’t forget about him. Neither can I let “From My Balcony” be a contemporary orphan out there, and so there are plans afoot to write more in the Balcony Series. That’s where that English (or French, or Scottish) castle comes in. And what good Italian villa or New York hi-rise doesn’t have a balcony? From My Balcony was a finalist in a couple of contests, so I think I’m on to something there. The next story will come, and for the time being, I may bounce between whichever ones shout loudest while I’m awaiting the arrival of those twins. One thing I can say for sure – there WILL be more Patricia Bond books coming.

From My Balc
ony by Patricia Bond [image error]
Do you want to live your life or hide from it?

Diana knew she lied to her best friend when she said she wanted to live it.

Oh, how desperately she wanted to hide!  Hide from her husband’s betrayals, hide from the blame and guilt heaped on her by her younger daughter’s refusal to accept the divorce, hide from the pity, the questions, the snarky innuendos from her “friends.”

Most of all, hide from herself and her failures.

Her family accepted her need to “find herself,” and this apartment in the south of France was perfect with its balcony and view of the sea and town. Low enough to be able to watch life happen below her, high enough to not participate in any of it.

Now if only the gentle people of Cassis would let her do that.

  [image error]

 

 

[image error] Learn More About Patricia Bond

Website  www.Patricia-Bond.com

Facebook www.facebook.com/patricia.bond.author

Patricia Bond’s Books

By Love’s Honor Bound – Soul Mate Publishing – 2013

Building a Christmas – Soul Mate Publishing – 2013  winner Best Holiday Romance of 2018 from Uncaged Book Reviews Magazine

Arms of an Angel – Soul Mate Publishing – 2015

From My Balcony – self-published – 2018, finalist in Pages From the Heart Contest 2017, From the Heart Contemporary Romance Writers; finalist, 2018 I Heart Indie contest, Las Vegas Romance Writers

How does traveling inspire you?
Patricia would love to share with you.
Post your thoughts and comments below.

 

The post Romance Writer Patricia Bond And Her Writing Life appeared first on Zara West Romance.

Author Michal Scott Talks about Her Writing

~ Love Your Story ~

Michal Scott, Christian romance and mystery author, and my fellow Wild Rose, shares with us her story ideas, her inspirations, and her newest novel.

Tell us about yourself,  Michal…

Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

That would definitely be F. Scott Fitzgerald. I had an edition of the Last Tycoon that contained his planning notes. I remember being so impressed that I wrote on the back inside cover that I wanted to become a writer like him. Later I came across his Pat Hobby short stories and loved how honest and unsympathetic he is with the character and yet that very portrayal generates such empathy and sympathy in me for him. I want to do that with my characters.

Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?

I’m presently taking a class on writing comedic mysteries. Mysteries has always been my favorite type of book to read, but as I wrote more romance, romantic suspense really wasn’t my bag. I liked tortured gothic heroes more than romantic suspense good guy/bad boy types. This class is helping me find my way back to my first love.

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

My favorite part is when Queen and Caesar are at dinner, each determined not to be outdone by the other. I loved writing how hard it was for Caesar to keep himself in check and how much fun Queen was having with him because she knew how hard he was struggling.

How did you come up with the title? 

The title comes from  the apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, chapter 7 verses 8-9: “I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I. But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.” Lousy sex education advice, but it captures perfectly the situation of my hero and heroine, both unmarried but reject celibacy as a good way to abide.

What project are you working on now or what book will be next?

I’m working on two: one an inspirational historical romance called A Pearl of Great Price where the heroine discovers her worth and decides not to settle for a man who doesn’t know it. The other is an erotic historical novella called The Bad Ones Aren’t As Bad where the  heroine is a sexually liberated free-spirit who causes all kinds of problems when she uses the Bible to teach the young women in her town about sex.

Are there certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you’d love to work with? This relates back to my answer in question 2 regarding comedic mysteries. I love second chance/redemption themes, so I’m incorporating humorous ghosts who haunt a relationship-challenged hard-boiled private investigator to help couples get a second chance at love, eventually helping the PI get a second chance at love as well.

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

Yes. Love the story you want to tell, develop your craft to help you tell it then tell it. You’re not the only one who will relate to your story.

Better to Marry than Burn by Michal Scott[image error]
Wife Wanted: Marital relations as necessary. Love not required nor sought…

A bridal lottery seems the height of foolishness to ex-slave Caesar King, but his refusal to participate in the town council’s scheme places him in a bind. He has to get married to avoid paying a high residence fine or leave the Texas territory. After losing his wife in childbirth, Caesar isn’t ready for romance. A woman looking for a fresh start without any emotional strings is what he needs.

Queen Esther Payne, a freeborn black from Philadelphia, has been threatened by her family for her forward-thinking, independent ways. Her family insists she marry. Her escape comes in the form of an ad. If she must marry, it will be on her terms. But her first meeting with the sinfully hot farmer proves an exciting tussle of wills that stirs her physically, intellectually, and emotionally.

In the battle of sexual one-upmanship that ensues, both Caesar and Queen discover surrender can be as fulfilling as triumph.

Buy links:
AMAZON  |  B&N

Learn more about Michal Scott [image error]

Website  www.michalscott.webs.com

Twitter @mscottauthor1

 

 

 

What do you love to write?
Michal Scott would love to hear from you.
Post your thoughts and comments below.

The post Author Michal Scott Talks about Her Writing appeared first on Zara West Romance.

Interviewing Romance Writer Jessica Collins

~ Fun, Passion, and Fairy Tales ~

Today romance writer Jessica Collins talks about her fairy-tale inspired books, the first romance she ever read, and her current projects – there are a lot of them including Choose-Your-Own-Ending romances. Welcome Jessica…

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Of course! My name is Jessica Collins, and I write super steamy romance.

A little bit about me first… I’m born and raised in New Jersey and as much as I hate the cost of living here, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. No, we aren’t all like Jersey Shore or RHONJ. Although, I do live near most of them, lol. I live with my husband and our amazingly sweet pitbull, Nala. She’s my mush! I’m currently a pescatarian which—not gonna lie—isn’t always easy. I gave up meat last year for Lent and lasted almost all the way through summer. I started eating meat again and began getting migraines all over again. So, for 2019 I’ve decided to try and give up meat again as well as gluten, hoping this will help not only my migraines, but also fertility issues my husband and I have struggled with for the past 4 years. I’ve written a little about this on my blog, and that’s another resolution I have—to actually blog more than just once every few months. I love Nintendo and play pretty consistently still. Especially Legend of Zelda.

As for my writing, I started with the idea for Stealing Beauty about five or six years ago. I wanted to take favorite fairy tales, add some steamy content and remove the paranormal elements for an adult version of my favorite stories. I never in a million years dreamed my small idea of an adult Beauty and the Beast would morph into writing as a second career! While I’m not able to write full-time, I have added a number of books to my catalog.

Fairy Tales After Dark so far has Stealing Beauty, the retelling of Beauty and the Beast, and Finders Keepers, the retelling of Aladdin. I’m currently working on the third in the series, Hunting Red, which is the retelling of Red Riding Hood. The series it written so each novel is a stand-alone HEA, but characters are featured in all books—their world is connected. I’ve also written sweet romance, PNR, took part in a few anthologies, and have some ideas in the darker realm. In total, I currently have seven publications with two pending for early 2019. My most recent release was a Christmas -Themed Interactive Romance called Your Merry Little Christmas. It’s part of my new series, the Choose Your Own Destiny series. These novellas allow the reader to take the story in a number of different directions—all based on personal choices. Want to end up with the sexy chef? Go for it. Prefer the hot cop…a number of scenarios will get you there. (Sound fun? It’s currently on sale on Amazon through Valentine’s Day!!)

I’d say my writing style is sexy and fun. I want readers to feel connected to the characters. Alpha males, confident heroines, amazing friendships, and fan-worthy sex combined with enough tension to keep you on the edge of your panty-soaked seat all night long is what I strive for in every story I write.

That’s a lot about me so far. I could keep going, I am a writer after all, but let me jump into a few other questions!

Is writing something that comes easy to you or not?

Yes and no. I find I have a lot…and I mean a LOT of ideas on a daily basis. When I’m “in the zone” at least. I’ve gone weeks, maybe even months, without writing one word. Not because I didn’t have a general idea, but because the characters just wouldn’t speak to me. For instance, I planned on having each book in the FTAD series released every 6 months. It took me about 9 months after Stealing Beauty was released just to start Finders Keepers. I had the general idea, but every time I sat down to write, it just didn’t seem “right”. So, I had to put it on the back burner until the story was ready. Then, all of a sudden, I had a full scene of Jayla. She started talking to me and just wouldn’t stop. I finished the book in 2 months after that, working on it a little bit every day after work and on weekends. It just came so naturally.

One thing which happens is I’ll have a whole scene come to me when I’m lying in bed about to sleep. I’ll jump up and take a voice note of what I’ve just imagined in order not to forget it, but when I go to actually write it, the sentences won’t come together. Other times, I’ll sit to check my email, get a random idea, and write like 2,000 words. So, I’m very hit-or-miss.

How did you choose the genre you write in?

I write what I love—romance. I mean, I am a passionate Scorpio and all. I’ve been a huge fan of this genre since college when I read my first romance ever, Bet Me by Jennifer Cruise. I became obsessed. I’ve always been a big reader, but before that book I was more into horror/suspense. From there, I read a number of her books and then gathered the courage to walk into the “steamier” section of Barnes and Noble. I think Maya Banks may have been my first erotica and from there, hooked.

Now, what inspired me to write were actually some really bad romance books. I would get so frustrated with scenarios that were so utterly unrealistic I couldn’t continue to read (like college-aged virgins who are so clumsy they can barely function yet somehow get the elusive billionaire into “BDSM” which in actuality is just abuse). Or decisions the heroine would make that just make me cringe. I wanted to try and write sexy books where the characters were real. Where friends would put you in your place and talk to you like friends—and if you made a stupid decision the reader could empathize instead of being turned off. I wanted men who were respectful of women while still being a bit domineering. For Finders Keepers, I especially wanted to show what BDSM is—love and respect—over what some people think it is (cough, cough).

I’m not saying my books are written so amazingly well I deserve a Pulitzer. I mean, I’m still a *new* author, and have a lot to learn. But, I will say I love all of my characters, especially for their flaws. And I still love reading all romance. One of the coolest things about writing it is meeting fellow authors, some I never heard of before. I now have so many books on my TBR I honestly might never get to them…and to me that’s amazing.

How did you come up with the title?

They strangely just come to me! I always say I don’t write the books, my characters do. Likewise, as I’m writing, my characters end up telling me the title. My titles aren’t featured in the book—no “roll credits”—but there always seems to be a point while I’m writing that the title name just pops into my head. Once it’s there, it’s usually perfect. I’ve (to date) never changed a book title once the name popped into my head.

What project are you working on now or what book will be next?

My next big project is Hunting Red, the third novel in the FTAD series. This is based on Red Riding Hood. The main character, Scarlett, is actually the younger sister of the Snow White character. Nikolai is the cousin to the “Beast” character, Aleksandr, from Stealing Beauty.

Nikolai is one bad boy. He and Scarlett actually don’t like each other. At all. Their story is slowly being told to me in bursts of ideas! It is full of lust and hatred and passion all rolled into one action packed story. This is the closest to “dark” romance I’ve written so far, and I’m loving it. I’m looking at a late 2019 release date as long as they keep talking. Maybe November?

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

I enjoy criticism, actually. I know I’m a new author, and not having writing in my background, I’m aware I have a lot to learn. I want to grow as an author. Even now, looking back at Stealing Beauty, there are scenes, even sentences, I would change/rewrite. I’ve learned that much in just a few short years. Most of it has come from critique partners and other authors, people who were willing to read and give me truthful critique. I cannot express how important those people are—the ones who are LOOKING for faults, who are looking to help you make changes, so this way you can look at your work objectively and say, “yeah. I get it. This needs to change.”

As for the best, it came from my editor, VJ. I found her through a friend to edit my novel before submitting for publication. She read the first three chapters and, in her email, wrote back to me she couldn’t believe this was a first novel, that it was written so well she could really focus on the developmental stuff rather than the proofreading, and would love to edit for me. I couldn’t believe it. I think I read that part twice to my husband—after reading it to myself like six times! She was the first one (outside my family) who really make me “feel” like an author.

How do you market your work? What avenues have you found to work best for your genre?

Marketing is one aspect I was clueless on when I first became published. I naively thought publishers take care of all marketing and I need to do is write. Then I learned, finishing the book is actually only the first real step!

Marketing is hard…and I still struggle with what methods are best. I don’t have the income to spend thousands of dollars on advertisements like some authors do, so I try and find cheaper ways to get my name and books out there. Sources like you, Zara, are invaluable! Ways for authors to meet new readers through interviews and blog tours. I have a pretty decent Facebook following and have a group where I share a lot—Fairy Tales After Dark, which is searchable. I host other authors there on “takeovers” and I will be a featured takeover author for their blogs/pages as well.

I have a newsletter and try to do newsletter swaps with other writers. This is where I’m featured on their newsletter and vice versa. I do warn authors to be careful here, though. There is a subset of romance writers who are…less than ethical. Luckily, Amazon has cracked down, but “bookstuffers” were well known for a number of years, and a lot of them are friendly with each other. I hate to say it this way, but I’m wary of any author who can write, edit, get cover art, etc, a full-length book in a few weeks. In my experience, if they have more than like 4 books a year, they’re likely a stuffer or an ex-stuffer, and I choose not to work with them.

I’ve also tried Facebook ads, which didn’t seem worth the cost. I have a website which is more about readers getting to know me (and that I promise 2019 is my year to keep up with it more). Mostly, I think word of mouth is the most important. I have a number of amazing fans who help share my book releases on social media just because they like my series so much.

Is there anything special that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

I love you all! Thank you, THANK YOU, for taking the time to read my books. Seriously. There are so many amazing authors out there, and the fact you chose to read my stories is humbling. I adore and appreciate every single one of you!

 

Since I’ve mentioned the Fairy Tales After Dark series a number of times, here’s the blurb for the first novel in the series, Stealing Beauty. Enjoy!

Stealing Beauty by Jessica Collins  [image error]

A stubborn beauty….

Anabelle Lehala just wants to spend time with her best friend, finish law school, and provide a good life for her and her father. Her world is knocked upside down when she meets a mysterious, captivating stranger who tempts her like no one before. Refusing to be just another notch in his belt, Belle forces herself to stay away from him at all costs.

An egotistical beast….

Rich, powerful, and handsome, Aleksandr Wolfe has been accustomed to getting whatever he desires. That is, until he meets Belle. Immediately captivated by her, Aleks can’t understand why she won’t give in to the obvious mutual desire between them. Helpless to stay away from her, Aleks wonders if she’ll be the one thing he can never have.

The fight for her life….

When Anabelle finds herself in danger after refusing the advances of Gabriel Avenant, a man who believes she is his and his alone, Aleksandr vows to protect her. As their attraction grows, they each must decide if they are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice—their hearts.

Buy Links
AMAZON  |  B&N  |  iTUNES  |  SMASHWORDS  |  KOBO

 

[image error]Learn more about Jessica Collins

If you want to follow me (I love meeting new people), check out the links below! Sign up for my email and receive a free eBook from me also. (Mention Zara in the signup form for a chance to win a second free eBook from my catalogue!)

Facebook Profile https://www.facebook.com/jessica.collins.author.75054

Facebook Fan Page:  https://www.facebook.com/authorjessicacollins/

Facebook Group (Fairy Tales After Dark): https://www.facebook.com/groups/1393011250760671/

Twitter: @AuthJessCollins (https://twitter.com/AuthJessCollins)

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cqDCP5

Website: www.jessicacollinsauthor.com

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jessica-Collins/e/B06XJPV9RT

What was the first romance you ever read?
Jessica would love to hear from you.
She is waiting to answer your questions.

The post Interviewing Romance Writer Jessica Collins appeared first on Zara West Romance.

Meet Romance Author Elizabeth John

~ A Place to Write and more ~

Awesome romantic suspense author, Elizabeth John, talks about her new bridal romance series, how she found a place to write, and how she fits writing into a busy life.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Sure thing! Let’s see. Over the years, I’ve written many newspaper and magazine articles, short stories, and ceremonial resolutions for the State of New Jersey under my real name. When I became an elementary school teacher, I began writing under a pen name. Deciding on a pen name took me forever, but I finally came up with a combination of my children’s names. On weekdays, I rise at 5:00 a.m. to write. I also write on weekends. I have two rescue dogs and a parakeet, and recently found myself to be an empty nester. What else? Oh, I’ve been dabbling in my family’s ancestry. That’s been a lot of fun!

How did you choose the genre you write in?

I’ve always been obsessed with suspenseful books, TV shows, and movies. The first books I devoured in my pre-teen years were gothics. I couldn’t read them fast enough. In my opinion, they were the original romantic suspense novels. So naturally when I started writing romance, eerie events would appear on the page. Sometimes, a dead body or two. Even when I believed I was writing a traditional romance, a mystery subplot lurked. I embraced the suspense and merged romance and mystery together.

How did you come up with the title?

Since the setting in Forever Hold Your Piece is a bridal shop, the title needed a wedding theme. There’s a play on the word piece because the story is a romantic suspense. The cover artist really listened to my instructions. I wanted the cover to look bridal, but hint to the reader that danger was on the loose; hence, the appearance of a gun. Each title in the Becker Sisters Bridal Series will tie in to that theme.

What project are you working on now or what book will be next?

Right now, I’m working on the second book in the Becker Sisters Bridal Series called To Have and To Hold. The story is about the middle sister, Rose. Rose has a secret she’s kept from her family, which she is forced to reveal when a couple is killed in a car crash.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I don’t really have a favorite. With raising a family, I’ve had to be flexible and adapt to any empty square footage I could claim my own, even if it was for short bursts of time. My home ‘office’ has become a vacant spot I can find and work undisturbed. After a few years of writing, I had created a lovely writing office in a spare bedroom, which overlooked the pool and gardens in my backyard. I painted the room a calm shade of green and purchased a big desk.

My husband works from home occasionally, and I would often find him working in there. Let’s just say, he cramped my style, and he enjoyed the space too much. I let him take over the room, but insisted he move my big desk into the basement. I couldn’t get into a groove in my new space for various reasons and found myself writing at the kitchen or dining room tables. Family gatherings usually involve eating at those tables, and I had to keep moving my stuff. Now, I’m writing in the family room on an old secretary desk I inherited from my grandmother—very uncomfortable and not ergonomically correct—but I have my dogs at my feet and listen to my bird sing. If I twist my head, I can look out the window and see the pool and gardens. Hmm, the family room corner might be my favorite spot!

What do you do when you are not writing?

I love to read, walk the beach (even in the winter), binge-watch TV, and do yoga. I also like to talk on the phone with family and friends or get together in person. Although my day job is demanding, I make a point of squeezing in those activities. I think social connections are important for one’s mental and physical health. Tonight I have Book Club. The club chose Forever Hold Your Piece as the selection. I can’t wait to hear their reviews!

Thanks to Zara and all her readers for allowing me to join you today. I hope your days are filled with peace, health, and good books!

Forever Hold Your Piece by Elizabeth John [image error]

Lily Becker believes the worst day of her life was when her fiancé stood her up at the altar. That is, until she stumbles upon his dead body in her family’s bridal shop. The shop becomes a crime scene, her business expansion plans tank, and brides demand back their deposits. Confused, scared, and certain that she is being watched, Lily struggles to keep her business and her life afloat.

PI Jake Ward, hired to find a priceless stolen painting, tracks the thief’s location to Lily’s small coastal town. As part of his cover, he leases the vacant bait and tackle shop next door to hers, unaware that she and her sisters had planned to rent the place.

The Chief of Police worries that someone close to Lily murdered her ex and he fears for her safety. The chief, a surrogate father to Lily, asks Jake to act as her bodyguard. Jake agrees and pretends to work on his business but never leaves her side. Although annoyed that Jake interfered with her family’s business plan, she admits that Jake makes her feel protected.

Jake and Lily can’t deny their attraction to one another. Lily decides to trust again as their relationship grows serious. The more time they spend together, the more they realize they are perfect for each other. Guilt eats at Jake’s conscience since he must lie about his true identity. Can he solve his case before he’s free to tell Lily the truth and she learns of his deception?

AMAZON

[image error] Learn more about Elizabeth John

Website: www.ElizabethJohn.com

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/elizabethjohnauthor

Twitter: @elizabethjohn34

Instagram: elizabethjohnauthor

Where’s Your Favorite Place to Write?
Elizabeth John is waiting to hear from you.

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Nadine Dandorf Writes Romantic Suspense

~ Writing Inside Your Head ~

Awesome Romance author Nadine Dandorf writes romantic suspense. In her interview, she shares her writing influences, how she handles writer’s block and talks about her favorite authors and how-to writing books.

Welcome Nadine…

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi! Thanks for letting me join you. I write from northwestern New Jersey where I was born and raised. I married my high school sweetheart, and we have a grown son and daughter who live too far away for their mother’s liking. If you ever thought you couldn’t love your children more, wait until you have a grandchild. Ours is eighteen months old, and we couldn’t love her more.

What do you do when you are not writing?

When I’m not writing, I’m working my day job or reading my favorite genres, suspense and romance. My favorite authors include Vince Flynn and Kyle Mills who now writes his Mitch Rapp series, Brad Taylor, Nick Petrie, and too many others to name. For romance, Nora Roberts (of course), Linda Goodnight, HelenKay Dimon, and many of my NJRWA sisters. I also love to decorate (I have lapsed Certified Interior Decorator creds), to garden, and to go to the movies.

When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

I started writing in 2011 to vent some personal frustration and to purge the story that kept spinning in my head. My favorite genre has always been suspense (my husband got me hooked on Robert Ludlum) but I also love smart romances with strong heroines, so my writing blends both ideas. I published my first novel in 2016 and my second last year. I’m working on my third novel now and hope to have it ready in early 2019. It’s not a trilogy in the true sense, but it is the journey of the same characters. I devour everything I can about craft and style and although I feel like I’ve come a long way from that first draft that I thought was “done”, there’s still so much to learn.

Do you ever experience writer’s block?

With my current project, yes, but not so much a block, just overwhelmed with all the different places the story could go. What I originally had planned wasn’t working. I’m not a plotter or pantser, and while I had a framework, the story was all over the place. I also got extremely distracted with my day job (gotta pay the bills) and family issues. However, while I wasn’t writing, I was thinking and re-thinking. I took one piece at a time, fleshed it out, and either tossed it or kept it. I was frustrated at how long it took, but it was worth it. Someone once said most of the writing is done in your head and now I know what he meant. Breaking it down into manageable pieces helped, too, so it was no longer overwhelming.

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

The toughest was that I should throw away the lead in paragraphs to my current WIP and start again. Ouch. The best was having Contingencies compared to a Clive Cussler story. That was awesome.

Do you have any websites, blogs, or books about writing that you would recommend?

I have so many favorite books. On structure, I keep going back to Story Engineering by Larry Brooks, Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland (her blog is great, too), and The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass. Mastering Suspense, Structure & Plot by Jane K. Cleland and Conflict & Supense by James Scott Bell are stacked with great information when writing suspense. Another great book is Verbalize, by Damon Suede. If you ever get a chance to attend one of his classes, don’t miss it. He is amazing.

Is there anything special that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

First, thank you for spending your precious time to read my stories and for the positive feedback. The support has been amazing, and I am truly grateful. I hope my novels get better with each new one published and they continue to enjoy them.

Contingencies by Nadine Dandorf [image error]

Recalled for a secret task, former U.S. Army Ranger Staff Sergeant Adrian Reilly must bring the CIA definitive proof that its deputy director of National Clandestine Services, Charlie O’Donnell, is the master manipulator behind the deaths of covert operatives, agents and Reilly’s brothers in arms. Reilly’s motivation is simple: to clear his name for being wrongfully discharged and avenge the deaths of both his best friend and the CIA Special Agent who warned him that O’Donnell was an enemy from within. But O’Donnell’s web of deceit and lies is spun with devils and innocents, including Trent Mariner, a rouge sniper Reilly believed dead and Daniella St. Sauveur, the daughter of the agent who warned him about O’Donnell.

When Dani discovers she’s been used as a pawn in O’Donnell’s murderous games, she must summon the strength of warriors twice her size in order to survive the betrayal and the ache for a man with a player reputation and a laser-focus on only his mission.

Reilly’s strength and resolve are tested and his ability to battle any contingency cannot fully prepare him for the depth of O’Donnell’s conspiracies and what Mariner has planned. More than his military expertise, Reilly will need faith, hope, and a special woman’s unwavering love in order to stop a madman’s vengeful quest to destroy them all.

Buy link
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Learn more about Nadine Dandorf

Website: www.nadinedandorfauthor.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/nadinedandorfauthor

Twitter: @dandorf_8  

The post Nadine Dandorf Writes Romantic Suspense appeared first on Zara West Romance.

My 2019 New Year Resolutions: A Dozen Hopes

 ~A Dozen Hopes for 2019 ~

Time to make those 2019 New Year Resolutions. I have a long tradition of making New Year’s Resolutions. I bet many of you do too. After all, we only get a chance to revisit our hopes and dreams every 365 days.

Usually, I make a list and stuff it away. This year, inspired by my Hearts Through History Romance Writing Chapter, I decided to write my resolutions as a word cloud.

Making My 2019 New Year Resolutions Word Cloud

First I needed to choose my words. There were so many wonderful words that I wanted to pursue that I had trouble picking only a few. I ended up with twelve words that were meaningful to me and that I thought I could pursue successfully. Twelve – a dozen seemed like a nice even, easy-to-handle number, and to my surprise, mirrored the twelve months too. (Be looking for blog posts focusing on one of these words in each of the coming months.)

Next, I took my words and using Word Art Creator, turned them into a beautiful graphic that I can hang on my bulletin board or paste in my journal. This cool little website is pretty intuitive to use. You can choose the size, color, and font for your words and then a shape to fit them into. You can even upload your own shape.

Here’s how my 2019 New Year Resolutions Word Cloud turned out:

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Pretty cool, don’t you think? This gave me another idea. What if I created  a word art design for the book I am currently writing? So I did. The novel is tentatively named Hooked on Love, and here is the word art version. Looks like a fun read, right?

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What are some of your 2019 resolution words?
Put them in a word art design of your creating.
Share how it works for you.

 

 

 

 

 

The post My 2019 New Year Resolutions: A Dozen Hopes appeared first on Zara West Romance.

My Holiday Wishes for You

~ May All Your Wishes Come True ~

This has been a wonderful year for me. I have my health and my creativity and have published Within the Skin and have Under the Skin in press. What more could a writer want?

Well, what I want is the best for all my readers. I hope you have enjoyed reading my books, loved my free Christmas story (You can get a copy by joining my Readers Club), and had a chance to discover new books, new writers or interesting writing tips each week on my blog.

But those are things about me. Here is my list of holiday wishes for you.

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*I wish you*

**Good times**
****Good health****
*A cozy place to curl up*
*Caring friends and families*
**Plenty of good books to read**
***Time to do the things you want***
|Time to relax|

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Pat Esden Writes Magical Stories

~ Researching Magical Stories ~

Today, I would like to introduce you to traditional and self-published romance author, Pat Esden. In her interview, she shares about her newest books, how she researches paranormal stories, and the challenge of getting published.

Take it away, Pat Esden…

Hi everyone, I’m excited to be a guest on Zara’s blog today! Actually, I’ve been dancing on air since December 11th when HIS DARK MAGIC, the first novel in my Northern Circle Coven series, came out. I’m so thrilled that I finally get to share the characters and story with you, my readers.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I live in Northern Vermont not far from where the Northern Circle Coven series takes place. Besides being an author, I’m a full-time antique dealer and a retired florist. I’m a country girl at heart. A golden retriever fan. Plus, a lover of cemeteries and abandoned buildings, weird history, and folklore in general.

Is there an event in your life that affected you as a writer?

As a rule, I don’t write about people I know or have known, or family members. However, I’d say there wasn’t an event in my life that didn’t affect my writing—from something as basic as the smells and sounds of autumn in New England, to the death of loved ones, the heat of passion, professional and personal triumphs and failures. Everything I’ve experienced plays a role in creating the emotions and sensory experiences I use when creating my characters and their stories.

How much research do you do for each book you write?

Though my novels are fantasy, I do a great deal of in person and online research. For HIS DARK MAGIC, I revisited the real world locations where its scenes are set. The coven’s main complex is located near a park which has a circle of standing stones, very much like Stonehenge. It plays a prominent role in the series, so I photographed it and the surrounding area. Here’s a link if you’d like to see it: http://bit.ly/2Noxfe1

I also attended a wonderful Tibetan cultural exhibit and dinner created and hosted by children and grandchildren of local Tibetan refugees. I discussed applying to medical school with a doctor and educator who is involved with the process at the university where Chloe, the novel’s main character, hopes to apply. I researched crystals, plants, and folklore about witchcraft and Merlin. Luckily, I love research, so doing these things and a lot more was a labor of love.

Do you ever experience writer’s block?

Most often when it feels like I’m blocked, it’s because I need to step back from what I’m working on and listen to my inner voice. It’s usually telling me that the plot has taken a wrong turn, a character is off, or that am trying to push forward too fast and need to think things through before moving forward. As you might guess from that, I’m not an author who does well when my goal is focused on speed and word count. Slow and steady with a basic outline for guidance works best for me.

Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

The Northern Circle Coven series is my second published series. My first was the Dark Heart series from Kensington Books. I went the traditional route of querying and eventually signing with a literary agent. Actually, I signed with my agent after she saw the first book in the series on an online contest. My agent went on to sell that series and then my second series a couple of years later. The biggest challenge for me has been being patient. A majority of the traditional publication route is painfully slow. Then once in a great while, things are shockingly fast.

Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?

The second novel in the Northern Circle Coven series is THINGS SHE’S SEEN. It will be released in October 2019. This novel also centers around the Northern Circle, but is from the point of view of a different coven member, Emily. She is the survivor of an incredibly horrific childhood as the world’s youngest psychic medium. Now as a recovering alcoholic and polysexual woman in her early twenties, she becomes entangled with a powerful man from her past—a witch who is capable of destroying the Northern Circle.

His Dark Magic by Pat Edsen [image error]

Northern Circle Coven series book 1

Just Released!  December 11th

 

Its power is legendary. It can fulfill every impossible magical desire. But for one young witch seeking redemption, the Northern Circle coven will challenge her skills—and her heart—beyond measure.

One tragic impulsive mistake made Chloe Winslow an outcast to her influential magic family. As a medical student, she wants to combine science with sorcery to heal those she hurt and right her wrongs. But brilliant, charismatic Devlin Marsh re-routes her plans with a once-in-eternity offer: membership in the exclusive Northern Circle, a mysterious Vermont coven known for pushing the limits.

Enthralled by Devlin and their mesmerizing mutual attraction, Chloe makes a dangerous sacrifice to help the Circle’s high priestess awaken Merlin himself—and learn his timeless cures. But a foreshadowing soon causes Chloe to doubt the Circle’s real motives, as well as Devlin’sNow Merlin’s demonic shade is loose in the human world, while Chloe and Devlin’s uneasy alliance will pit them against ancient enemies, malevolent illusions, and shattering betrayal.

And with the fate of two realms in the balance, Chloe must risk her untried power against a force she can’t defeat—and a passion that could destroy her.

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Learn more about Pat Esden

Pat Esden would love to say she spent her childhood in intellectual pursuits. The truth is she was fonder of exploring abandoned houses and old cemeteries. When not out on her own adventures, she can be found in her northern Vermont home writing stories about brave, smart women and the men who capture their hearts.

She is the author of the contemporary paranormal Dark Heart series from Kensington Books, and the upcoming Northern Circle Coven series. Her short fiction has appeared in a number of publications, including Orson Scott Card’s Intergalactic Medicine Show, the Mythopoeic Society’s Mythic Circle, George Scither’s Cat Tales Anthology, and the Fragments of Darkness anthology.

 

Website: http://patesden.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PatEsden

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PatEsdenAuthor/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/pat-esden

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

 

Do you love paranormal stories? Surprised at how much research goes into them?
Pat Esden would love to hear from you.
Post your questions and comments and Pat will get back to you.

The post Pat Esden Writes Magical Stories appeared first on Zara West Romance.

J. Arlene Culiner Writes Small Town Romance

~Writing Isn’t Easy ~

Meet fellow Wild Rose author J. Arlene Culiner. She is here today to tell us about her writing and to encourage us to read. In fact, maybe, by the time you are done learning about her, you will want to read her books.

 Welcome, Arlene!

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Well, Zara, the answer is pretty complicated… When very young, I set out to have a life of adventure and discovery, not one of security and comfort — although those things can certainly can be appealing during life’s more dangerous moments. I’ve since crossed much of Europe on foot, travelled, by bus, train, car or truck throughout North and Central America, Europe and the Sahara, and lived in unique places: a Hungarian mud house, a Bavarian castle, a Turkish cave dwelling, on a Dutch canal, in a lonely, very haunted stone house on the English moors, and presently in a 400-year-old former inn in a small French village.

Along the way, I’ve discovered forgotten communities, have met strange characters and had some very odd conversations. I cherish these experiences because they’ve kept me on my toes, way beyond my comfort zone. Of course, I incorporate much of the information I’ve gathered into my books and short stories. So far, I’ve had five romances published and, as Jill Culiner, two mysteries and two narrative non-fiction works, and I have another non-fiction work looking for a publisher. I also narrate audiobooks and I have a storytelling podcast — Life in a Small French Village — which can be heard here: https://soundcloud.com/j-arlene-culiner

Is writing something that comes easy to you or not?

No, it isn’t easy. I dislike writing the first draft, and I have to force myself to sit down and do it. I find it incredibly hard work. Of course, after the first draft, the writing gets easy and I start having fun, polishing sentences, making paragraphs beautiful, bringing characters to life. It also takes me a long time to write a book: I’m not one of those authors who can pop out something new each month.

What interesting jobs have you had? How have those jobs affected your writing?

My sort of lifestyle has meant staying flexible and taking up any sort of work that presented itself: belly dancer, fortune teller, translator, model, b-girl, story teller, radio broadcaster, actress, social critical artist, public speaker, photographer and writer. As you can imagine, these experiences have given me much material to draw on in my writing.

Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?

My newest release, Desert Rose (published by Fire Star Press), is a small town contemporary romance. The setting is Blake’s Folly, Nevada, a rundown semi-ghost town of trailers, shacks, old cars and strange local characters. Blake’s Folly was the setting for another of my romances — All About Charming Alice (soon to be re-released by Fire Star Press) — and I wanted to return to that quirky community and write about Alice’s best friend Rose Badger.

To tell the truth, Rose had been nagging me for quite some time, demanding the limelight, and I’m glad she did. She is a delightful character: gutsy, original, open-minded. As soon as the very appealing, honorable and sexy Jonah Livingstone (he’s part Paiute, part Italian) walks into her shop, he’s entranced too.

Of course, it’s the secondary characters in Blake’s Folly that I particularly love. True misfits, they don’t fit into neat houses and tidy gardens. Rebels — not by choice, but by character — they’re the real thing. And they’re also nosy, interfering and truculent.

Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?

In my travels, I’ve managed to discover into two desert communities that were very much like Blake’s Folly. They have a special place in my heart and I wanted to share them with romance readers who are looking for an original, out-of-the way setting. And how could I resist presenting some of the strange people I’ve met in life?

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

The last few chapters in my romance books are the ones I love. This is when my characters know — or finally admit — that they truly love one another, although their love story seems doomed because of the obstacles keeping them apart. How they do finally manage to get the happy end they deserve, is the most joyous part of writing romance.

What project are you working on now or what book will be next?

I’ve just finished a creative non fiction work about an itinerant, forgotten 19th century poet. It was an exciting project that had me burrowing through the archives of Paris and Vienna, taking trains to Ukrainian and Romanian villages, trudging through the snow on country lanes, and lurking in sleazy bars. Now, I’m making notes for another romance, an offshoot of Desert Rose — the romance of Rose’s grandmother who came to America from Russia in 1945 and met the love of her life, a Nevada saloon owner.

And when the manuscript about Rose’s grandmother is finished, I’d like to write about another Blake’s Folly character, the veterinarian Lance Potter. I’ll also be narrating some more audiobooks. I’ve already narrated two of my romances, published by The Wild Rose Press — A Swan’s Sweet Song, and Felicity’s Power, as well as other books, and I’m itching to start on a new project…perhaps narrating Desert Rose.

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

Read. Read outside your comfort zone, outside the genre you want to write in. Read travel literature, fine writing, classics. When you are writing, explore all the senses: tell us how things smell, sound, feel, taste. Describe, in the shortest and most imaginative way you can, the setting. And avoid consumer stereotypes: write from your heart. Write, and rewrite, rewrite again. Make each sentence beautiful. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.

Desert Rose by J. Arlene Culiner[image error]

 

A secret life is the best protection against love…

 Men love Rose Badger, and if the other inhabitants of dead-end Blake’s Folly, Nevada, don’t approve, she couldn’t care less. With a disastrous marriage far behind her, settling down is the last thing she intends to do. Isn’t life for fun? Doesn’t a stable relationship always mean predictability and boredom? Well… perhaps things might be different with Jonah Livingstone, but he is off limits for anything other than friendship. Even though, secretly, she’s deeply attracted to him, she knows he’s still entangled in a complicated past relationship. Besides, Rose has another secret life—one that she’ll never give up for any man.

The last person geologist Jonah Livingstone expected to meet in a semi-ghost town is Rose Badger. She’s easy-going, delightfully spontaneous, and Jonah is certain their attraction is mutual. But Rose is always surrounded by a crowd of admirers and doesn’t seem inclined to choose a favorite. Though Jonah has also suffered a failed marriage, he can’t help being drawn to Rose—and he dares to hope she may feel the same for him. But is Jonah too independent to settle into a permanent relationship again? He’s leading his own very private life, as well…and secrets are an excellent protection against love. Will he do what it takes to hold on to his DESERT ROSE?

Buy Link
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[image error]About J. Arlene Culiner 

 Actress, photographer, social critical artist, musician and writer, J. Arlene Culiner, born in New York and raised in Toronto, has been living in England, Germany, Turkey, Greece, Holland and Hungary. She now resides in a 400-year-old former inn in a French village of no interest. Much to local dismay, she protects all creatures, especially spiders and snakes, and her wild garden is a bird and butterfly refuge. Her great passion is veering off the beaten track to discover forgotten communities with strange characters and very odd conversations, all of which she incorporates into short stories, mysteries, narrative non-fiction and romances.

 

Author Website: http://www.j-arleneculiner.com   http://www.jill-culiner.com

Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/jarleneculiner-quirky-romances

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jarlene.culiner 

Storytelling Podcast https://soundcloud.co

Goodreads  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7158064.J_Arlene_Culiner

Anecdotes and Short Fiction http://anecdotes.over-blog.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JArleneCuliner 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jarleneculiner

Jill Arlene Culiner would love to hear from you!
Post your comments and questions below.

The post J. Arlene Culiner Writes Small Town Romance appeared first on Zara West Suspense.

Christmas Romances – Snow, Trouble, and Happily Ever After

 ~ Christmas is for Romance ~

For some reason, Christmas romances are different from romances set in other seasons. I generally find most of them to be sweeter and more emotional than those set at other times of the year. At the same time, Christmas stories are also likely to be full of trite and overused tropes. In the wrong hands, this is a deadly combination. But in the right ones, the author will leave you with a new take on love. The following are some of my favorite Christmas stories -ones you are not likely to have seen on the Hallmark Channel.

 

Breakfast with Santa by Carol Henry

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

He’s just returned home with a small son and some nasty men on his trail. She’s the hometown girl who’s been in love with him forever and carries a long hidden secret. She plays a Christmas elf. He plays Santa. Will they get their happy ever after by Christmas Day?

If you love holiday stories with a bit of angst, this is the holiday read for you.

All Through the Night by Suzanne Brockmann

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Utterly delightful and heart-wrenching, this LBGT novel follows the wedding preparations of a FBI agent and a TV star who desperately love each other. Neither is perfect. One’s a recovering alcoholic. The other is possessive and jealous. But they are made for each other, and they are on course to wed if a series of unfortunate incidents ranging from being trapped in a building under attack in Iraq to a crazed fan with a gun can all be dealt with. If you have read other books by Brockman you will meet many familiar characters. If not, you will meet new characters and want to read their stories next.

Miracle on 5th Avenue by Sarah Morgan

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What would you do if an author used you as inspiration for the murderer in the novel he’s writing? That’s the premise of Miracle on 5th Avenue.

The hero might be a brooding sort of fellow, and the chef heroine may have her wok cut out for her, but this is a Christmas romance. Bright, cheerful and heart-warming except when it’s not. A great read any time.

Christmas Angel by Jo Beverley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What if you found yourself married to a poet who immortalized you in his poetry, but doesn’t provide for you when he dies? Jo Beverly has created a most interesting juxtaposition between a proud starving widow and a wealthy, cold lord who has decided to use the requirement he marry as a form of charity by helping a poor woman – a stranger he has no intention of loving. But like in all Jo Beverly romances, both characters soon learn that love is all.

Simply Unforgettable by Mary Balogh

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Even though this story begins the day after Christmas, I still consider this to be a wonderful Christmas romance. A spinster school teacher, heading back to her school in Bath, finds herself snowed in with a handsome, attractive stranger. Facing a lonely future, and thinking him an ordinary person like herself, she lets herself fall in love and in bed with him for one night. Then they go on their separate ways. But he is actually a wealthy lord, and unable to forget her, tracks her down. Sounds like the plot of a fairy tale romance except everything goes downhill fast. There’s a happy ending waiting at the end But almost doesn’t happen. If you love snow, mystery and heart-wrenching love stories, you will love this one.

View all my reviews

Do you have a Christmas romance that is bit off the beaten track to recommend?
I’d love to hear from you. 

The post Christmas Romances – Snow, Trouble, and Happily Ever After appeared first on Zara West Suspense.