D.V. Stone's Blog, page 16

Around the Fire with Tena Stetler and her New Release Security Force of Two.

Security Force of Two (Mountain Town Mysteries Book 1)
by 
Tena Stetler
Psychic Romance
Paranormal Witches & Wizards Romance
Werewolf & Shifter Romance
Released March 20, 2023
Back Cover
Miacoh Zane, a Special Forces veteran, returns to Aspen Ridge, Colorado a small town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, to settle his beloved grandmother’s estate. But the town holds painful memories and mystical family secrets he wants to leave behind for good.
Candle Bearclaw, is a gifted computer analyst/programmer with psychic talents she buried when recruited out of college by the CIA. After fifteen years, she abruptly resigns her position and returns to her sleepy hometown to discover her childhood crush has also returned and a violent crime has been committed.
Due to their covert operations experience, Candle and Miacoh are thrown together to assist Homeland Security, FBI, and her father, the former chief of police, with a murder investigation. As they search for the perpetrators, their secrets risk being revealed as the investigation takes an unusual twist that could blow the case wide open.
What others are saying
~Secrets, surprises, romance, murder and an adorable puppy. 
~A book that simply captivates.
About the Author-
​Tena Stetler is an international best-selling author of over seventeen award-winning paranormal romance novels and cozy mysteries. With an over-active imagination, she wrote her first vampire romance as a tween to the chagrin of her mother and delight of her friends. Colorado is home; shared with her husband, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot, and a forty-five-year-old box turtle. With the Rocky Mountains outside her window, she sits at her computer surrounded by a wide array of witches, vampires, shapeshifters, demons, faeries, and gryphons, with a Navy SEAL or two mixed in telling her their tales. Her fascinating books tell stories of magical kick-ass women and mystical alpha males that dare to love them. Well, okay travel, adventure, magic, and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales.
Join her at www.tenastetler.com
www.facebook.com/TenaStetlerAuthor
http://www.twitter.com/@tenastetler
​https://www.instagram.com/tenastetler/​

Around the Fire New Release Spotlight with Nick Pascarella

Rescuing Jellybean 
by 
Nicki Pascarella
When Conner Sullivan follows a trail of jelly beans to find an orphaned Sheltie, he immediately knows that he wants to adopt the beautiful dog. The only thing standing in his way is sexy Rainey Thibodeau, the uptight workaholic farmer who runs the Moose Pond Dog Rescue.

No matter what, Rainey won’t give in to Connor. So what if he has the body of a Greek god, hair the color of a penny in the sun, and the eyes of an angel. The arrogant ass stole her heart over fifteen years ago, and he won’t get one more thing from her... including the dog called Jellybean.
https://amzn.to/3WLAWwX​
​www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rescuing-jellybean-nicki-pascarella/1143005772
D. V.'s Review
Rescuing Jellybean
A story both sweet and spicy.
This is my first book by Ms. Pascarella. The cheerful cover is what caught my attention. One of my favorite dog breeds, the Sheltie, is on the cover. In a small town where everyone knows your business, Rainey Thibodeau is no exception. This likable character is a proprietor of a café, an animal rescuer, and all around American girl. She’s not time for an all-in relationship with the local veterinarian but they, at least for Rainey’s part, casual friends with benefits. At least until her sometimes childhood tormentor, sometimes crush, returns to town. Connor Sullivan shows up in Moose Pond to get a camp he’s inherited sold. The problem is he has fond memories of a childhood spent there and is torn between his fiancé’s demands and his heart. Driving into town, something runs in front of his car on a stormy night. Jellybean eludes capture by Rainey and Moose Pond Rescue and runs into the love of his life, Connor. And it’s love at first sight for Connor too. Unfortunately, the prickly Rainey stands between them. This is a lovely story of second chances, a cozy small town, and the characters that populate it. Light-hearted, funny, and touching, you can’t help rooting for everyone except a spurned lover with a cold heart. I’ll be reading other books by Ms. Pascarella.
​About the Author
Nicki Pascarella writes Sexy Thrillers & Mysteries and Humorous Romance. She enjoys mixing genres—adding seriously steamy romance to her small-town mysteries or a pinch of paranormal fantasy to her romantic comedies; it’s all about making her readers laugh and fall in love. Using her twenty-nine years of experience as a high school teacher and her background in creative writing and journalism, she edits and coaches authors for The MediaCasters. Helping artists break through creative blocks is one of her passions. When she isn't writing and editing, she reads, runs, and hangs with her husband, teenage daughter, and Shetland sheepdogs. Nicki is also an award-winning belly dancer.
www.nickipascarella.com/
​​https://linktr.ee/Nickipascarella

Around the Fire and thinking about Five Star Reviews.

I’ve been reading and learning about reviews. I’d like to talk about stars and their value. First, let me say, I truly appreciate everyone who has given me a five. Those make me feel good. But the information I’m reading is that 5 stars are not considered as valuable or trustworthy as 3 and 4. 
Some information discusses the glut of Fives devaluing a book. 
I personally would never post a one or two. 
3s are still a good book.
4s are very good
So what’s a five? Of course, this is subjective. But to me, fives are those like
To Kill a Mockingbird
Lord of the Rings
The Chronicles of Narnia
Harry Potter
Several books by Stephen King. Not all.
This list isn’t all-inclusive by any means. 
Do you see where I’m going with this? These are books that shape me as not only an author but a person. Books that I would automatically buy the next one. 
What about my own books? Are they truly Five Star worthy? I think several are a solid 4. Some a three. Remember I said I won’t talk about ones and twos. Like I said, I won’t publish a one or two. Why not? Not everyone likes every book. I received a book from Netgalley. I didn’t finish it. The dreaded DNF! Why? The book wasn’t terrible. I found it not what I expected. People loved James Michener. He was a very popular author at one time. I couldn’t get through even one of his, and I tried several. He wasn’t my cup of tea. And the book I DNF’d was similar to his style. 
In my own life and reviews, I’ve decided to be more thoughtful of my ratings. I’ve handed out lots of fives over the years. Don’t get me wrong, some of these books I five'd were great, and I’ve bought and read more from those authors.
I do like this system.
1 star: Reviewer doesn’t recommend this book at all.
2 stars: Reviewer wouldn’t read it again.
3 stars: Reviewer enjoyed the book.
4 stars: Reviewer liked and would recommend the book to friends/family.
5 stars: Reviewer considers the book something everyone should read. You would definitely reread it.
I especially like if  I would reread it.
​I hope I didn’t offend anyone. It’s not my intention to.
​I’d like to know what you think. 

Around the Fire with Susie Black recently released from the ether of my computer to talk about her newest release.

Poor Susie Black. You have no idea what I put her through to get this blog out. For some reason my email won't work for some. It must be a stupid filter. Doesn't put people like Susie or my editor ELF into spam, not that would be to easy. They just go to limbo and float in the ether. So, this may be a day late but, I hope you enjoy my guest today.
Nana the Storyteller
If there is an inheritable gene for story-telling, mine came from my mother’s mother. My nana should
have been a writer. No one could tell a story like her. She was the eldest of six children of a modest
immigrant family from Eastern Europe that settled in Boston at the turn of the century.
My great-grandfather was a tailor who managed to clothe, feed, and shelter his children, but there was
precious little left over for extravagances like a day at the cinema for one child, let alone for six. Nana
had a cousin Jenny who played piano at the local silent-movie house and she was able to get a free pass
for relatives. Nana and her next oldest sibling traded off weeks going to the serialized show every
Saturday afternoon and then came home to tell the story to all the other kids.
The other kids hated it when it was my great-aunt’s turn, because she gave a short synopsis and called it
a day. They were thrilled when it was Nana’s turn. She set up two rows of chairs in the parlor like in the
movie house, served popcorn, dimmed the lights and played background music on the victrola as she
recounted the episode of the serial. Nana would take her time, slowly build up to the cliffhanger and
stop talking right before the finale. Nana would wait until my great uncle Murray would yell, “Go on
Rae, go on!” before she’d finish telling the story. Talk about pacing and how to build tension to the
finale? Nana had it down pat.
I had no formal creative writing training when I decided to write my first manuscript. I had a story to tell,
but no clue how to tell it. I heard Nana’s voice in my head talking to me . My long-gone, full-service Nana
had given me all the tools I needed. I started writing, and thanks to Nana, I never stopped. I kept Nana’s
story-telling skills in mind while writing the books in my Holly Swimsuit Mystery Series. Somewhere in
the great beyond, Nana is smiling her approval.
Death by Pins and Needles (Holly Swimsuit Mystery Book 2) 
by Susie Black 
Book 2 of 3: Holly Swimsuit Mystery
Amateur Sleuths
Cozy Mystery

The last thing Mermaid Swimwear sales exec Holly Schlivnik expected to find when she opened the closet door was nasty competitor Lissa Charney’s battered corpse nailed to the wall. When Holly’s colleague is wrongly arrested for Lissa’s murder, the wise-cracking, irreverent amateur sleuth sticks her nose everywhere it doesn’t belong to sniff out the real killer. Nothing turns out the way she thinks it will as Holly matches wits with a heartless killer hellbent for revenge.



Pre-order
https://www.amazon.com/Death-Surfboard-Holly-Swimsuit-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0BXMCS2NN​
​ From a reviewer
​I binged on this book all afternoon. Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2023 About Susie Black 
Named Best US Author of the Year by N. N. Lights Book Heaven, award-winning cozy mystery author Susie Black was born in the Big Apple but now calls sunny Southern California home. Like the protagonist in her Holly Swimsuit Mystery Series, Susie is a successful apparel sales executive. Susie began telling stories as soon as she learned to talk. Now she’s telling all the stories from her garment industry experiences in humorous mysteries.
She reads, writes, and speaks Spanish, albeit with an accent that sounds like Mildred from Michigan went on a Mexican vacation and is trying to fit in with the locals. Since life without pizza and ice cream as her core food groups wouldn’t be worth living, she’s a dedicated walker to keep her girlish figure. A voracious reader, she’s also an avid stamp collector. Susie lives with a highly intelligent man and has one incredibly brainy but smart-aleck adult son who inexplicably blames his sarcasm on an inherited genetic defect.
Looking for more? Contact Susie at:
Website: www.authorsusieblack.com
E-mail: mysteries_@authorsusieblack.com
http://twitter.com/@hollyswimsuit
https://www.instagram.com/hollyswimsuit/
https://facebook.com/TheHollySwimsuitMysterySeries​

Around the Fire with Ginny Frost and her new release, Artist.

One year ago, seven authors came together and decided to do a series about a magical mortar and pestle. Today the final book in the series releases, and wow! I read and am in awe of how Ginny wrapped this up. I’m so happy she’s here today for you to get to know. I thought she was perfect until she told me she was a Diet Pepsi person. Ugh. When we go out, I specifically ask. Is it Coke or Pepsi? If it’s Pepsi, I’ll get the unsweetened iced tea. That said, Around the Fire is the blog that delivers, so while I grab a - Pepsi- Ginny will tell you all about herself. And GO...
I fully admit it. I’m a Diet Pepsi addict.  I never start before noon. Well, not usually… I’m an avid reader finishing usually over 150 books a year. I love a romance and a cozy mystery. I do a book blog of my reads. I also cross-stitch. Again, I’m obsessive about it. I usually create bookmarks that I sell at author events. I’ve got about 300 or more now.

Wow again. That’s a lot of books and bookmarks. I’m particularly fond of your Tech Blog. You’re very good and simplifying the explanations. Who is your network or support system?
I have two great support groups. The Mortar and Pestle authors have been a great source of information and support. I’ve learned so much from them. I also have a local NaNoWriMo group that is fantastic. I can talk to them about just about every aspect of publishing. It’s wonderful, and we write together too!

Aww, you’re such a sweetheart. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
I read Stephen King at 11. His career and drive to succeed are always in the back of my head. Janet Evanovich also inspires me with the types of books she writes. She started in romance and branched out. I want to do that also. Finally, Marion Chesney/MC Beaton is my hero. I’m working my way through her 70+ books—both romance and mystery. She writes short great stories.

Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
No. I was in marching band in the color guard for two years in high school and four in college. I wasn’t very good, but I had fun.

Have you been a part of a cooperative author series before? What drew you to this one?
Yes, this is my second Multi-Author Project (Map). Previously, I worked with the Sandy Bay series. I like the idea of authors working together to write a series. I’m not a great team player, but these types of projects are great writing and learning experiences. I’m so glad I did both!

We’re glad you did too! Let’s get back to those blogs. Both a beneficial tech one and a book review one. Can you tell us a little more about them?
My Apps for Writer blog comes from my teaching background. I worked as a computer teacher in the late nineties, teaching both kids and teachers to use technology. I loved showing them how to use the computer as a tool rather than a gloried worksheet machine. Now I hope to help other authors use all the wonderous apps out there for their benefit. I’m a big proponent of only using software that works for you. I want authors to find that perfect tool to help them with their writing. My reading blog has changed this year. Usually, I would blog a book for review every week. Now I do a monthly summary of the titles I’ve read. I am completing the 52 Book Club challenge this year.

Yours is the final book in the Mortar & Pestle series. Did that make it easier or harder?
Easier, I think. I’m a stubborn fool. I had a silly idea to finish the series and bullied all the other authors into letting me do it. They were kind enough to let me experiment and I think it turned out wonderful. I hope everyone loves our series ending.

I didn’t feel bullied at all! And I love how you tied everything together. I think those who read the series will agree. Now let’s learn more about Artist.  Artist
By
Ginny Frost
Stuck at a retreat with her ex, Lexi is torn between reviving her art and rekindling an old romance.
Lexi Pintari is stuck in a dead-end cubicle job that is slowly killing her. She tucked away her passion for art when the love of her life ghosted her after college. Witnessing her lack of motivation, Lexi’s best friend drags her to an art retreat for much-needed reflection and inspiration. Though knowing her ex-boyfriend is an artist-in-residence there, Lexi agrees to go. Unfortunately, her metal-goth style and enthusiasm for graphic comics clash with the pastel-scarf-wearing, tea-sipping participants, making her ex the least of her problems. 
Cole MacDougall is blocked. His rise to the top of the modern art scene is crushed by a missing muse. He is desperate to paint again, but the canvas remains blank. Due to the shortage of patronage revenue, he is forced to put up with the groupie-students. Until he sees a woman standing out like a sore thumb in ripped jeans and a leather jacket. Lexi. Hope blooms that he can renew his passion through her. 
For two weeks, Lexi and Cole work together, discovering what they’ve lost professionally and personally. Will a magical Mortar & Pestle show them how to connect the broken lines and seal their destiny?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRYFR32D
​Link to Series https://www.amazon.com/Mortar-Pestle-6-book-series/dp/B0BS42PKHZ 

More about the Author
Ginny Frost
Writes contemporary romance with a sexy, funny kick. In her down time, she plays clerk at the local library—the perfect job to feed her reading addiction.
She lives in upstate NY with her very own kindhearted ogre, their two smart and sassy daughters and an evil cat named Flash.
www.ginnyfrost.com

*Note from D.
I want to give a shout out to Sydney Winward the creator of the entire series cover art. She did such a fabulous job and one of the most stated comments are "I love the covers."

Around the Fire Welcomes Darlene Fredette and her New Release, Trickster.

Hi Darlene! Welcome to the fire. I’m going to whip up some hot chocolate. I hear you like it with a splash of coconut syrup and a dollop or whip. While I do that, why don’t you tell the other visitors about your self.
I’m a published author of eleven contemporary romances. I’m also an artist who loves drawing and painting and recently discovered digital art. I love painting and drawing. I’m currently designing a collection of greeting cards. I also enjoy long walks with my dog, watching movies with my family, taking pictures of the many birds that visit our trees during the day, and staring up at the starry sky at night.

Whose the people who prop you up and cheer you on?
First, my family. Second would be my beta group and my mortar and pestle cohorts.

Aww! I love being a cohort! Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
I discovered Harlequin Romance books in my teens, and my favorite author soon became Penny Jordan. I would grab her books as soon as they hit the shelves.

Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
I wouldn’t say it’s a talent, but I am double-jointed.

What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? 
I live in a quiet neighborhood across the bridge from a bustling city. I love taking day trips with my family to the Valley which is a forty-minute drive. The small towns in the valley are picturesque, peaceful, and a relaxing getaway.
It sounds wonderful. My hubby and I are always trolling around small towns and finding wonderful places and people. Let’s talk about you new release. Have you written in cooperation with other authors before?
Never. This was my first swim in stormy waters.

What drew you to this project?
I went in kicking and screaming, lol. But seriously, I really liked the premise of a magical mortar and pestle roaming from story to story.

What’s the best thing about writing with other authors?
The bonded friendships we formed.

Yep, you know I’m going to ask the other one. What’s the worst thing about it?
They kept pulling back in every time I wanted to jump ship.

And I’m so glad we did. I love your story. Tell us about Trickster  which is the sixth book in the series.
What was your inspiration for your book in this series?
Trickster is part of my Redford Falls series and I wanted to write a story about the one of characters who had a small cameo in two other books. Jade is a healer and she fit perfectly into a magical fantasy story.

There's a final book in the series. Can you tell us about that?
Book seven is Artist by Ginny Frost. Here’s a teaser.
“What happens when your muse abandons you? Or worse, your ex turns up at your one chance to rekindle your artistic flame? One touch of an antique mortar and pestle shows Lexi stories of selkies, Vikings, pirates, treasure hunters, vampires, and healers who have found their heart’s desire. Will she and Cole be next, or are they merely brushstrokes on a canvas?”

Who’s your favorite M&P author? (Oh, silly me, It’s me! LOL this is a joke. Did I get you?) Darlene, I’d love for you you to come and hang at my real fire one of these days.
Keefer (my Yellow Lab) and I will join you and Hali by the fire any day! 😊Thank you, Donna, for feeding me and the Trickster with campfire smores. ​Trickster
by
Darlene Fredette

Can she heal the trickster before he breaks her heart?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS1PD9W2/

About the Book
Working for a top modeling agency is Jade Parsons’s dream job until her boss suffers a heart attack, and his son temporarily fills his position. Eric’s push-pull approach fuels her frustration. While anticipating the troublemaker’s imminent departure, Jade’s destiny is revealed through a magical mortar and pestle, leaving her heart tormented by whispers of a different fate.
World-renowned photographer Eric Martini returns home to restore his relationship with his estranged father, but wounds from the past haunt him. Enchanted by his father’s feisty assistant, he masks his heart and refuses to give in to desire. Convinced his destined future is already written in the stars—and doesn’t include Jade, Eric’s only choice is to walk away. 
Will Jade and Eric find the courage to trust the mythical and smokey signs before their paths are severed forever?

More about Darlene.
I write stories about falling in love and happy-ever-after. I grew up with my nose in a book and daydreaming. Writing stories is an escape and I can’t imagine a better way to spend my day.
The Artist In Me... The title of ‘artist’ is huge, and I’m not sure my work is deserving of the title, but my family definitely says it is. While I do many styles of art, my favourites are pencil drawings and paintings. Every week, I pencil sketch a new drawing for my daughter.
I have always loved painting, from ceramics to canvas painting, but I recently discovered fluid art painting and I love it!
http://darlenefredette.blogspot.com/

Around the Fire Welcome Virginia'dele Smith and The Green Hills Series of heartfelt and wholesome, small-town romance novels.

3 Times to Make Sure
by
Virginia'dele Smith

She’s always feared abandonment. Is she about to face it again or find happily ever after?

M’Kenzee Davenport knows love doesn’t last. So despite marrying her high school crush on a whim in Vegas, the gritty photojournalist never believed the union was real. But when her husband-in-name-only goes missing on a mission for the FBI, she’s stunned to receive his effects as next-of-kin.
Poring through his childhood journals, M’Kenzee discovers to her amazement that the handsome G-man has loved her forever. And with no news about his fate, the tormented loner worries he’s lost for good just as she discovers she doesn’t want to live without him.
Will M’Kenzee be reunited with the man of her dreams?
Three Times to Make Sure is the emotional third book in the Green Hills romance series. If you like endearing characters, family drama, and wholesome matches, then you’ll adore Virginia’dele Smith’s captivating story.
Buy Three Times to Make Sure to learn the heart’s buried truths today!
https://ashlimontgomery.com/products/...
Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BL257TFJ
Amazon affiliate link:  https://amzn.to/3Fybs16
Reedsy https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/thr...

​What inspired this story?
What a treat to cozy up around the campfire with new friends! I love to chat, I love to share, and I love love stories.
My books take place in Green Hills, a fictitious small town that could exist just off the Indian Nation Turnpike in southeast Oklahoma. Hidden among lush green trees, Green Hills has mystical qualities of unity and encouragement. The community is designed and depicted how I wish the world would be: uplifting, supportive, helpful, and kind. There are all types of people in Green Hills, with all types of backgrounds and careers, and I look forward to sharing each of their stories for as long as the words keep flowing.
We are often advised to “write what you know,” so while I have a healthy, overactive, and dramatic imagination, I expect the fine folks of Green Hills will love many of the jobs and hobbies that I love: quilting, sewing, reading, writing, cooking, baking, book stores, libraries, tea rooms, hair salons, dress shops, boutiques, antique malls, crafts, fabric shops, home decor, architecture, real estate, teaching, and singing. There will be a lot of football, and other sports like baseball, dance, and yoga. There will be doctors and nurses, firefighters and EMTs. There will be police and mayors and civil servants.
There will be tragedy and loss. There will be challenges and struggles. There will be a theme of facing Alzheimer's disease and the fight to end it.
There will be love — heartfelt and wholesome love, sweet love, deep and emotional love. Lots and lots of love!
While these common threads will be woven within the stories, each one is unique and engaging on its own. Each one is an opportunity to escape to Green Hills for a few hours, visit friends, discover love, and enjoy a happy ending.
Welcome to Green Hills ~ I’m thrilled you’ve come to visit!

From the Author:
Heat level: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested. Some Material May Not Be Suitable for Children Think of movies like Narnia, LOTR, and National Treasure.) 

·     About the Author
Ashli Montgomery is a wife, a momma, and an author whose passion is sharing love stories, books, quilts, yoga, recipes, and her favorite things in life. She is quilting to mend the mind by spearheading and educating a community of quilters through Quilt 2 End ALZ, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit she launched to use her quilting hobby as a platform to advocate for an end to Alzheimer's disease.
Ashli writes wholesome and heartfelt, small-town romance under the pen name Virginia’dele Smith to honor Syble Virginia Tidwell, Adele Gertrude Baylin, and Etta Jean Smith. These three cherished grandmothers were beautiful role models, teaching Ashli to love without judgment and to always put family first. Through Grandma Syble’s journals and appetite for books, through Momadele’s priceless cards and handwritten letters, and through many, many hours of visiting over fabric at Mema’s kitchen island, Ashli also learned to treasure words.
You are invited to join Ashli in Green Hills and learn more about Virginia’dele Smith and the many hats she enjoys wearing by subscribing to Ashli’s newsletter, The Gazette, at AshliMontgomery.com.

Find out more here
Author Website: https://ashlimontgomery.com
The Gazette Newsletter: eepurl.com/gJIDcv
Amazon Green Hills Series Page:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KQV6TFS
·      Welcome to Green Hills FB Group:www.facebook.com/groups/welcometogreenhills
·      Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/author/virginiadelesmith
·      Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/21962644.Virginia_dele_Smith
·      Amazon Series Page:  www.amazon.com/dp/B09KQV6TFS
·      BookBub   www.bookbub.com/profile/virginia-dele-smith
·       FB Page: www.facebook.com/AshliMontgomery.VirginiadeleSmith/
·      Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashlim.virginiadelesmith/
·      Twitter:  twitter.com/MeAndCoach
·      Pinterest:  www.pinterest.com/ashlimontgomery/
·      Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/user/dy4m35u...

Around the Fire with Shirley Goldberg and ReVamped. It's Release Day!

Shirley! Welcome to the fire. It's been chilly in Florida so snuggle up. While I grab a few cups of warm and cozy why don't you introduce yourself.
Hi, I’m Shirley and I write datey books about middle-aged characters starting over. Once upon a time, I dated. A lot. When I got the idea to write about my dates, I’d excuse myself to go to the restroom, pull out my tiny notebook, and take notes. Middle Ageish, my first book, came out of my frustration with reading about online dating, rarely portrayed accurately in novels.

If you haven't read Shirley's other books and you need a laugh go grab one. Tell us a fun fact.
A silly factoid about me is I hitchhiked through England and Ireland with my best friend when I was nineteen. We got picked up by a woman and her dog in a Jaguar who put us up overnight in her barn. She offered us the guest room, but we wanted to sleep in the barn. 

Wow, you all fit in a Jag! Cuddling up with cattle or snuggling with sheep. I can picture this. I know you've been a globe trotter. Tell us about it.
I’d love to be able to tell readers about my secret life and where I gather material for stories. Alas, I’ve lived in Paris, Casablanca, and Crete, the largest Greek island, but no longer travel much. I’m a homebody. I love walking in the morning and bumping into bird neighbors. You never know who will turn up on the path, a pair of sandhill cranes  or a flock of egrets searching for wormy goodies in the grass. 

Birds are amazing! I love visiting aviaries. What else do you like to do?
One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is to find a great band and go dancing with my honey. I also volunteer at a local school in a reading program and participate twice a month with a long term writing group that gathers on Zoom. Once a month, we take turns hosting a pot luck dinner.
 
Let's chat a bit about writing. Is this your first time with a multi author group?
I’ve never written a series with other authors before the Mortar & Pestle. It has been a pleasure discovering the talents of the six other authors in our group. We started out as a social circle, trading marketing tips and publishing stories, and got the idea to write a series. What fun I had cooking up trouble for Dante, my energy vampire, and Sophie, his sweetie. And figuring out how the Mortar & Pestle would appear in the book and bring the two main characters together. 

What was the best thing about it?
The best thing about working with my author friends is the inspiration and help we shared, sometimes daily.

You know I'm going to ask about the worst thing?
Keeping up with technology and learning the apps, although it’s fun to create graphics. 

What about Revamped? It's a bit of a departure for you isn't it?
Revamped, my vampire comedy, turned out to be my way of climbing out of my writing comfort zone and trying a new genre. My fellow authors in the Mortar & Pestle group were talking smoke and magic, pirates and tricksters, selkies and artists reviving an old love affair, hot deep sea divers and a steamy Scotsman. I wanted to create an unfamiliar world, challenge myself. A bonus? My reading habits expanded to include genres I never before tried, from paranormal, to fantasy, to monster romance.

Tell us about the book. 
An energy vampire hungry for love meets the wisecracking woman of his parents’ nightmares. 

Vampire Dante Allegretti hates his sucky life. Born into a family of energy siphoners, he’s desperate to reinvent himself as a fun-loving normal guy rather than a crowdsourcing parasite. To stop the draining urges, Dante resorts to grinding alternative meds in an ancient Mortar & Pestle, not knowing it contains magical properties. 
Enter wisecracking thirty-year-old Sophie Arley, who lives with her clingy parents. Working three jobs and craving independence, she’s come back strong after a breakdown crashed her cozy world. So when the weird, hot guy she just met-cute asks Sophie to the movies, she agrees.
Sophie won’t spoil their magical connection by mentioning her heartbreak. And Dante dreads telling Sophie about his dark side. Will the power from the Mortar & Pestle guide them to their happily ever after despite the secrets and lies?

This is a not your normal vamp trope and I love that! What else can you share?
Since these are all romances, you can guess.

Spill, what comes afterward? 
Revamped with energy, the Mortar & Pestle materialize in Redford Falls. As smoke circles within the stone, orange flecks of glitter turn to green, strengthening its chosen path and setting its magic in the hands of a woman with eyes the colour of jadestones. She is the only one who has the gift to heal the man known as the trickster. Trickster, by Darlene Fredette, is the next book in the series. 
Grab our FREE Prequel with yummy samples from all 7 books and read for yourself: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/3vhm7opc1r

Thanks, my friend for popping in and chatting. Keep reading for more about Shirley and the M&P series.​ ​Shirley Goldberg
Is a writer, novelist, and former ESL and French teacher who’s lived in Paris, Crete, and Casablanca. She writes about men and women of a certain age starting over. Her website http://midagedating.com offers a humorous look at dating in mid-life, and her friends like to guess which stories are true. A Little Bit of Lust is her third book in the series Starting Over, although all her books are standalone. Shirley’s characters all believe you should never leave home without your sense of humor and she agrees. 
Shirley Goldberg.com ​Here's more from the M&P series
A wisp of smoke, a swirl of promise, a breath of destiny…a message within the Mortar & Pestle for those who want to believe.
Throughout time people have sought their heart’s desire. But true love is often elusive.
Carved with ancient Norse runes, the Mortar & Pestle shows paths to happily-ever-afters.
Once you capture the Mortar & Pestle’s scent of magic, you’ll want to read all seven individual romances
Selkie
By
Sydney Winward
No one has ever managed to capture a selkie. Until now…
Seeker
By
Jean M. Grant
Nock, draw, release. Her bow is always ready, and if her arrow hits its mark, she will secure her destined soulmate.
Quartermaster
By
Marilyn Barr
Can the love of a pirate heal the wounds inflicted by a gentleman?
Sea Hunter
By
D.V. Stone
On the turbulent high seas, an archeologist must protect a historic shipwreck from treasure hunters—not fall for one.
Trickster
By
Darlene Fredette
Can she heal the trickster before he breaks her heart?
Artist
By
Ginny Frost
Stuck at a retreat with her ex, Lexi is torn between reviving her art and rekindling an old romance.
​
Link to series https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS42PKHZ
Link to free sample of series  https://dl.bookfunnel.com/b1ytv2r7nq

Around the Fire Release Day for Sea Hunter!

#wsite-video-container-161029022805108157{ background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/81573318-373... } #video-iframe-161029022805108157{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-161029022805108157, #video-iframe-161029022805108157{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-161029022805108157{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } It's been a long time coming it seems. I hope you're as excited as I am. It's been about six years since I began my writing career and I've learned a lot. What are some of the things? 
Perseverance and patience are needed. Writing is a long process. People ask all the time. When is your book coming out? When it’s done to the best it can be has to be the answer. Sea Hunter began last year and it's taken a little over that year to get it into your hands.
Disappointment and rejection happen. We learn what we can from criticism and let the rest go. Each comment teaches me something about writing and myself. Could you imagine if everyone only heard how great they or something they do is? We'd never strive to be better. One of my bosses asked me once, "Can't you be satisfied?" I told her no, rather emphatically. I explained to her for me to be satisfied could lead to complacency and that's not a path I ever want to be on.
Editing is often frustrating and tedious. There is so much to learn/know. Sometimes painful decisions need to be made with parts of the story or character you love but need to change vastly or eliminate altogether. In a rush of emotion, words pour over the page, often in an unruly fashion. Cohesion and logic take a back seat to growth. Editors, critique partners and beta readers are your nurses who hand you the editing scalpel. I'm working on a book right now and boy oh boy this puppy is getting a face lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction.
Writer’s Block can happen, and here are a couple of tricks I’ve used.
Go to the end of your book. Do you know where you want the characters to end up? For instance, in a romance, it’s usually with a happily ever after. Then work backward. What steps do your characters need to take to get there? For instance Zahra needs to get past her fear of returning to the water. How can I get her there? 
Take care of yourself. I’m guilty of staying at my desk for long periods. Several times I got pins and needles in my fingers. Not good. Focus is essential, but so is life. Ge up and take a short walk. Make time. A brisk ten-minute walk around the block can clear cobwebs. Go out with your significant other or friends. If you’re not living life, how can you write about it? 
Thank you all for sticking with me. I appreciate you taking the time to visit my blog, read my books, and for all the little notes I get. 
Sea Hunter
By
D.V. Stone
On the turbulent high seas, an archeologist must protect a historic shipwreck from treasure hunters—not fall for one.
Zahra Corbyn
As the professor of antiquities, nothing snaps my cap more than treasure hunters and looters. They smash and grab and then are gone with the wind. And there are two after Sea Wraith. But fate is a funny thing. Thanks to an ancient Mortar & Pestle, not only am I in cahoots with one of them but he’s also fired up my heart, turning me into a khaki-wacky.
Captain Jack Alexander
I’ve been told women on a ship are unlucky, but this dame has the two pieces of the map I need to finally claim Sea Wraith. Now, I find myself in a lousy deal that makes me one-third partner with her and a known scalawag. It’s either that or bupkis. After all these years of chasing down my dream of finding the shipwreck, my obsession is cooling off and heating up toward a bird who’s way above my pay grade.
Can the two unlikely allies work together while safeguarding their hearts against the power of the Mortar & Pestle?
If you like Lara Croft and Indiana Jones, you’ll love Zahra Corbyn and Jack Alexander.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRYJLLW1

​Sea Hunter: A Paranormal, Action Adventure, Romance on the High Seas
Release Date 3/16/23
Independent publication
Part of the Mortar and Pestle series
​Cover Design Sydney Winward
ASIN B0BRYJLLW1
Pages 159
Purchase link Sea Hunter        https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRYJLLW1
Link to series                             https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS42PKHZ
Link to Free Sample of series  https://dl.bookfunnel.com/b1ytv2r7nq
Link to series trailer                            https://youtu.be/juQwaRm4aEw
 
A wisp of smoke, a swirl of promise, a breath of destiny…a message within the Mortar & Pestle for those who want to believe. Throughout time people have sought their heart’s desire. But true love is often elusive. Carved with ancient Norse runes, the Mortar & Pestle shows paths to happily-ever-afters. Once you capture the Mortar & Pestle’s scent of magic, you’ll want to read all seven individual romances.

Around the Fire with Mary Cunningham and her cozy mystery.

Welcome to Around the Fire. I hope you've been enjoying the variety of guests and their books. Before we get to today's lovely author I'd like to take a moment to tell you about Sea Hunter. My historical, action, adventure, paranormal, romantic, novella, (can I get anymore tropes into one book?) releases tomorrow. In the way of birthdays I'd like to give a free e-copy of Sea Hunter to a random name drawn from commenters to this post. Sorry USA only unfortunately. And come back tomorrow because I have a short blog post too. So without further ado please help me welcome today author Mary Cunningham who also has a new release. Hi Mary, Welcome to the fire. I hear you are a coffee person, so while I grab a cuppa for us, please introduce yourself.
 Coffee! I must have three cups and a latte in the morning to function like a semi-normal human being the rest of the day. I’m a wife, mother, grandmother, grandmother, and a dog lover. Our sweet rescue dog, Lucy, crossed the Rainbow Bridge last summer, and I’m lost without her.
I’m fiercely loyal and don’t tolerate injustice or lying. I’m also pretty easy-going unless you rile me. Then, “Katie, bar the door!”
 
Oh, I’m so sorry. Losing a beloved pet is so hard. You have quite a few published works that must take up a lot of time, but what interests do you enjoy? 
I enjoy golf in the spring through the fall, but not enough to play when the temperature dips below 60◦. I enjoy water aerobics in the summer and walking on beautiful West Georgia mountain trails. I also love watching college sports; especially my Indiana Hoosiers basketball teams (men and women). The first week of March Madness is one of my favorite times of the year.
 
My DH has been promising me for years to teach me golf. Maybe now that he’s semi-retired, we’ll find the time. Speaking of Peter, he’s my biggest supporter. Tell us, who is your network or support system?
I belong to a great writers’ group, The Carrollton (GA) Writers Guild, where you can’t be thin-skinned when asking for critiques. My husband is my biggest fan and toughest critic. When writer’s block hits, he usually comes up with an idea or storyline that moves me forward. 
 
It’s such a blessing to have a partner who understands and is supportive. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
Wish you hadn’t asked that! I have too many to fit in one answer. Hank Philippi Ryan has been an inspiration for over a decade. I can’t remember a time when she hasn’t been there to answer a question or give advice. The same for author Jaden Terrell, an excellent writer, and editor. I’m in awe of multiple-series authors Lucy Burdette (Roberta Isleib), Nancy Cohen, Karen MacInerney, Carolyn Haines, and Regan Black. I hate to stop there because there are so many more amazing, prolific writers in my genre and others. 
 
I know Jaden Terrell! She is amazing. Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
My brain stashes sports trivia, especially basketball. If my husband and his friends are stuck on a name, team, or year of a specific sporting event, he’ll say, “Let me call Mary. She’ll probably know.” And I usually do.
 
Right now I live in a campground. We'll be back home in NJ next month. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them unique?
 We live on a cul-de-sac, so it’s generally quiet on our street. We also have the most wonderful neighbors we could ask for. Generous and kind. Always willing to help when needed.
As to places we frequent? Sprinkles Doughnuts is much too close for our waistlines.
 
 What is your favorite T-shirt with a graphic or Meme?
Oh, this is an easy one. I saw a shirt in Sanibel, Florida, with this: “I live in my own little world, but that’s okay, they know me here.” It’s been my motto ever since.
 
I love it! How about your favorite childhood book? Or writing that inspired you to become an author.
Besides sports biographies, I enjoyed Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys.
The person who inspired me to write, however, was my dad. He was a journalist for the Louisville Courier Journal for 40 + years. In his later days, he wrote a human interest column, and I’d sometimes go with him when he interviewed a subject for a story. To watch him go from a tape recording (back in the 70s) to pecking out the story on his old Royal typewriter, to being published in the paper, was motivating.
 
If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why?
One of my favorite books was The Time Machine, by H.G. Wells. I’ve always been fascinated with time travel and wished many times I could go to the past during some history-making event. I’d love to travel to the time of the Incas in South America or the Aztecs in Mexico. Or maybe watch Stonehenge being constructed, although that could take decades or centuries!
 
What ridiculous thing has someone tricked you into doing or believing?
When I was around eight years old, I stayed all night with my best friend. We switched rooms with her brother and slept in his bunk beds. I was in the top bunk with an electric blanket draped over me. Since I’d never seen one before, I believed him when he warned, “Don’t dare move during the night or you’ll catch on fire.”
 
Boys are so mean. LOL. Now, about writing, how do you select the names of your characters?
I use some names from my family tree. Especially if that particular ancestor had an unusual story passed down through the generations. I sometimes let the characters name themselves. Many times their personalities and dialogue will dictate their names. Ruby, Andi Anna’s annoying ex-stepmother, was obvious. How could she be anything but “Ruby”?
 
How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?
The first book I wrote, twenty years ago, was a children’s chapter book called Cynthia’s Attic: The Missing Locket. I sent it to several publishers and kept getting rejections.
Finally, one editor had the courtesy to write a few notes on the manuscript. “The story is very good, but you have too much telling, not enough showing.”
Puzzled by that comment, I did research and realized the problem. I spent the next six months revising and was accepted by the next publisher I queried. I still credit that editor with Pelican Press with giving me the tools to be able to write and get published.
 
As writers, we are so appreciative when someone gives constructive advice. I’m so glad she/he did. Mary, thanks for hanging around the fire with me today. Before you head off to the donut shop, please tell us about your newest book and where we can find out about it and you. Sazerac, Sleuth & Slay
by 
Mary Cunningham
A cozy mystery​
 
It’s gonna be a great day! Or, so she thought.

Andi Anna Jones, so-so travel agent, amateur sleuth, doesn’t suspect her least favorite client, Stewart (The Pain) Payne, will set off circumstances that lead to disappearance and death.
After his wife is a no-show for a convention in New Orleans, his threat to sue Graves Travel for “ten times more than it’s worth”, and Andi’s wish to honor one of her late dad's requests, leads her to The Big Easy in search of Grace Payne.
Five unsolved murders, a body caught in a crawfish cage, and a mysterious candle, magic, and incense shop, takes Andi deep into the bayou on a hunt for clues.
Will another victim be added to a serial killer’s list, or is the main suspect closer to Andi than she thinks?
Grab a copy today
Amazon:  Sazerac, Sleuth & Slay (An Andi Anna Jones Mystery Book 2) - Kindle edition by Cunningham, Mary. Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
Barnes & Noble:  Sazerac, Sleuth & Slay by Mary Cunningham | eBook | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)

What others are saying
"Loved this book! The characters are funny and very likeable. The story is very good. Definitely want to read more from this author!" 

"The story has twists, turns, wonderful local New Orleans local color, and some surprises for everyone. I would recommend this book to anyone who wished to get lost in a fun cozy murder mystery. I look forward to reading more books by Mary Cunningham with this lead character."

More about the Author
I grew up on the northern side of the Ohio River in Corydon, Indiana. My first memories are my dad’s original bedtime stories that no doubt inspired my active imagination and love of a well-spun “yarn”.
Childhood experiences, and a recurring dream about a mysterious attic, inspired characters, Cynthia and Augusta Lee, for award-winning middle-grade series,  Cynthia’s Attic .
Through a horrifying stint as a travel agent and more rewarding experience teaching travel and tourism,  Andi Anna Jones , travel agent/amateur sleuth, sprang to life. Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder will be published by The Wild Rose Press in 2021. Book 2, Sazerac, Sleuth & Slay is in process. 
I’m also writing another middle-grade series, The Adventures of Max and Maddie, an adult mystery, For the Life of Claire, and the biography of an army brat who evolved into a star college and professional basketball player. 

Follow Mary here
Website: http://www.marycunninghambooks.com
Facebook (17) Mary Cunningham | Facebook
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MaryCunningham
Amazon Author Page: Amazon.com: Mary Cunningham: books, biography, latest update
Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/author/show/367223.Mary_Cunningham
Instagram: Author Mary Cunningham (@marycunningham2604) • Instagram photos and videos