D.V. Stone's Blog, page 20

Around the Fire New Release with Avis Adams

The Christmas Wish Knotts (Christmas Cookies) 
by 
​Avis M. Adams

One woman's journey from jilted bride to independent woman who believes, once again, that wishes can come true.

Holiday Fiction 
Holiday Romance
Publication date:‎ December 5, 2022

About
Sif is nothing like her namesake--the strong Norse goddess and wife of Thor. She still reels from the trauma of being left at the altar. When Dr. Roger sublets a condo at the Cliff Edge Condos, she is immediately drawn to his dark eyes and warm smile, but how can she trust him after what her ex-fiancé did? She prefers her view of Puget Sound and cat Mr. Martini to the fear of rejection. Her ex-fiancé left her scarred. But can the good doctor heal her wounds?
With the help of the condo HOA president, the Quatre Hens, and Nanc, Sif finds herself surrounded by friends who seem more like enemies to her peace and quiet. But with the magic of Roger's charms, the Christmas season, and her ever-changing cookie recipe, will the Wedding Knotts turned Good Luck Knotts, turned Christmas Wish Knotts bring Sif the miracle she is hoping for? About the Author
Born in Washington where she still resides, Avis M. Adams fosters a deep love for the Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest. She loves to hike the local and national parks and learning the history of the region. The lush plants and scenery of Western Washington feature heavily in both her poetry and novels.
After earning an MA in English Literature, she began teaching and currently teaches English at a Green River College. She gives readings at local venues and teaches at writing conferences in the Puget Sound area. She writes everyday, has published a book of poems.
https://www.amazon.com/Avis-M-Adams/e/B07VJWWPPR
avis-m-adams.com/
www.facebook.com/avismadams
​https://www.instagram.com/amadams53/
​https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22062648.Avis_M_Adams

This book is one of The Wild Rose Press's CHRISTMAS COOKIES SERIES
A collection of 81 short romantic stories where Christmas Cookies of all types play a role.
www.amazon.com/dp/B09DB5B7KL​

It's Release Day for Kisa, Shield-Mates of Dar.

#wsite-video-container-287230482493896621{ background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/81573318-373... } #video-iframe-287230482493896621{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-287230482493896621, #video-iframe-287230482493896621{ 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-287230482493896621{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Thank you for stopping by! I'm so excited to release Kisa. She's the second book in my Shield-Mates series and my seventh published work. I enjoyed writing about her. She's quite complicated as most middle children can be. Often she's underestimated because of her appearance. She's small and cute. If you remember in Felice, her sister refers to her as a fluffy white house cat just to tease her like sisters often do. But Kisa is so much more. One of my favorite scenes is with her father...
“They will underestimate you because of your appearance. At first, it will be a trial, but in time, you will know how to wield that to your benefit.”
“I understand.” A sly smile grew. Kisa and her cat loved a good game.
“Sweet and gentle is what they will think, especially injudicious people.” He pointed at her. “Do not let them see that smile until it is time.”
As the holder of the magic of Dar, he felt the Lynx, who lived in Kisa, purr and rise just below the surface. Her cat enjoyed his praise, too. 
As you read her story, you'll see she is honorable, a diplomat, and a fantastic strategist. She's also passionate, loving, and the caretaker to not only her family but her country. But like everyone she's often frustrated, angry and wants to run her own life.  She also has a bit of a mischievous streak. I hope you enjoy reading Kisa. And if you have Kindle Unlimited, then she won't cost you a bit.
www.amazon.com/Kisa-Shield-Mates-Dar-D-V-Stone-ebook/dp/B0BHFBLYLJ If you haven't read Felice yet, I'm extending the sale for a few more days. 
www.amazon.com/Felice-Shield-Mates-Dar-D-V-Stone-ebook/dp/B06XRJGCDF

And coming in 2023 books three and four of the Shield-Mates series
Orsolo
Rhian

Around the Fire Welcomes Jessica Lauryn.

Hello, everyone! If you're in US,  I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. We ate too much and played a lot of UNO. Now full tilt toward Christmas. I'll be posting some fun photos in the About Me section, but before you head over, please help me welcome my fellow NJ author Jessica Lauryn.  Hi, Jessica. I'm so glad you could join me Around the Fire. While I pour us a hot cider why don't you introduce yourself by telling us who you are other than your bio?
My life has changed drastically over the last several years.  I went from being single and dreaming of finding a hero (or villain!) like the ones in my stories, to being the happily married mother of an adorable dare-devilish one year old girl.  Anyone here familiar with the 1987 movie Baby Boom starring Diane Keaton?  I used to say I’d played out every part of that movie with the exception of the part about being the mother of a toddler while trying to juggle life’s other challenges.  Now, I can honestly say I’ve lived the entire experience!  
When Lilah isn’t keeping me on my toes (which is not particularly often) I’m working from home (I do commercial real estate sales) and writing.  Writing remains my passion and my escape.  I am blessed to have discovered my love of books and writing early in life, and I’ve been writing full-length romance novels since I graduated from college.  When I’m not writing, I’m chasing after my daughter and enjoying everything autumn has to offer around the beautiful rivers, reservoirs, and gorges near our home.
         
I totally get what you meant about the rivers, reservoirs, and gorges. Often visitor only thing of NJ as cities or beaches. We live near the Appalachian Trail. Bears, bobcats, foxes and other wildlife are quite abundant here. Tell us what interests besides writing do you enjoy? For instance, what do you read or hobbies you have?
Of course, my time these days mostly revolves around my daughter, who enjoyed her first swim classes this summer and is currently having a blast in gymnastics.  But I do try to carve out time for myself as well.  I love hiking and I’m making it a priority this fall to get outside for a brisk walk in the fresh air every day that it isn’t raining.  I love decorating for the holidays and I have a beautiful collection of décor which includes a mix of modern day fun, and antiques.  I love cameos, but I’ll purchase any antiques that inspire me!  
When it comes to reading it’s got to be a romance!  While I enjoy writing suspenseful contemporary, I’ll read in any sub-genre, and I often find myself picking up a paranormal, historical or romantic suspense. 

My DH is a huge supporter and helper in my writing career, who is your network or support system? 
My parents have kindly acted as beta readers for me, reading my work before I share it with anyone in the writing and editorial world.  My mom is especially good at catching typos I miss in manuscripts I’ve read a hundred times and hear correctly in my mind—I often cascade right over what is actually on the page.  More recently, I’ve added my husband to our team.  Bill reads my entire book out loud with me (which we really enjoy), allowing me to hear how it sounds and catching things in a way reading in my head cannot provide.
Inspiration-wise, many people I’ve met in my personal and professional life have inspired my writing.  As they say, don’t mess with a writer or she just might turn you into a character in her book! 

Yay for Bill and your parents. Wow your read aloud together that's impressive. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
You never know when your going to find your new favorite book – they often pop up when you least expect them to!  Some favorites that stand out in my mind are Master of Pleasure by Jessica Trapp, where the hero kidnaps the heroine from her wedding bed to Mr. Wrong, The Making of a Gentleman by Shana Galen, where the hero, who was held captive for years must learn to speak again and is highly responsive to/turned-on by his attractive tutor, Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas, where the hero, gaming hell owner Derek Craven unsuccessfully fights his dangerous attraction to the country mouse who seeks to use him as inspiration in her next novel (are we noticing a pattern here?) and Stings So Sweet by Stephanie Draven, an erotic romance (I don’t generally read them, but this one snuck it’s way into my TBR pile) in which the characters will do almost anything in the name of pleasure.  I’ll also credit Nicola Cornick’s Lord of Scandal as being one of the first novels to make me aware I’m often more attracted to the villain than the hero, even when he’s creepy and weird.  

Got to love a bad boy at times. Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
Though you’ll often find me in jeans and a hoodie these days (hey, we’re still post-pandemic and I am the mom of a messy toddler!), I can coordinate an outfit like nobody’s business!  I haven’t done a lot of art since high school (writing more or less fills that void) but I have a strong sense of what I find visually pleasing, and I put that talent to very good use in our home and landscape.

What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? 
We’ve got more pretty places to visit than I can count – I am SO grateful to live where I do!  State parks, rivers and gorges within walking distance of our home, ice cream hangouts with a picturesque view, mills and a dam within minutes by car, and a little playground for babies that my daughter has a lot of fun playing at.  My husband and I always loved spending time outdoors and when the pandemic hit it was the only thing we could do.  With things back in full swing, it’s still our preference any day that it isn’t raining.  We have our top five favorite local spots, and as often as we get out, it always feels like we’re doing something different.

If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Everywhere, by Fleetwood Mac.  Its beautiful melody brings me instantly back to the simplest time in my life and the 1987 music video portrays the reading of a romance novel.  I play it often and my daughter enjoys it, too.

If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Chicken Francaise over rice, of course!

We all start somewhere, what was your first job?
There are several ways I could answer that question, but my first real job post-college graduation was a very brief tenure as a “front-desk clerk” at a hotel that was being renovated.  When I wasn’t folding linens, cleaning really disgusting floors or having tense encounters with my overbearing boss I was imagining how the whole scenario would be a lot more exciting if something suspenseful was happening behind the scenes and there was a really cute guy working beside me on our staff.  The ramblings of my imagination in overdrive later became my fourth novel, Dangerous Secret.   

Do you do research for your books? What kind and how long do you spend researching. Is it before beginning a book?
I do as little as I can get away with (I’d much rather be making something up than reading about anything real!) which, as I write more and more novels, seems to be more and more.  I research as I go, not before, otherwise I’d probably never get past the research stage.  I write about what inspires me and oftentimes a setting idea kicks off a series, in which both the setting, and what’s happening there, are things I’m totally unfamiliar with.  I’ve online researched (and taken out the occasional library book on) everything from diamond smuggling to witchcraft, musical theater to restoring a lighthouse and how to cheat at poker.  I dance around what I don’t understand, and I have a lot of fun bringing random ideas to life out of nothing whatsoever.

What was your hardest scene to write?
In Dangerous Ally, the hero’s father (the villain) sneaks into the heroine’s bedroom while she’s sleeping, and, intending to intimidate her, comes onto her in an aggressive way.  It’s as frightening as you might imagine, and while I found it uncomfortable to write I pushed myself through it, hoping to create that emotional set-up which brings the reluctant heroine and hero closer in the pages to come. 

Jessica, thank you for joining us today. Before you head out into the wilds of New Jersey, will you tell us more about your book and where to find it?​
An Enchanting Song
by 
Jessica Lauryn

Will mutual aspirations for vengeance be incinerated in the raging fires of passion?

Sebastian Nathanson has been plotting to take control of Rabourn Theater since he was barely out of high school.  He’s close to achieving his end game when a mysterious enchantress stops him in his tracks.  Seduction seems the appropriate method of defense where this cunning vixen is concerned.  But when he finds himself on the receiving end, Sebastian begins to come apart.  As he attempts to up the ante, he falls harder and harder, becoming lost and vulnerable, at his ethereal enemy’s mercy.

Madelyn Bennett has lived a sheltered life. Determined to get justice for the mother who died before her time, she’ll do whatever it takes to become Rabourn Theater’s star performer.  But when a dangerous man takes a keen interest in her, the perfect plan comes apart at the seams.  Sebastian Nathanson is a serpent in prince’s clothing. And Madelyn has never been more afraid—or tempted—in all her life.

Get your copy today
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B79DWJMG
Barnes & Noble - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/an-enchanting-song-jessica-lauryn/1141861570

What others are saying.
An Enchanting Song concludes the Rabourn Theater Series nicely. Readers are introduced to new and engaging characters with their own stories that unfold. Still, the history of the Rabourn Theater and the lives it affected will forever linger in the background. Like the others in the series, Enchanting Song has love, heartbreak, and profound family ties, but there is one difference. 
There are plans to breathe new life into Rabourn Theater, and it’s something that transforms into an unforgettable moment. An Enchanting Song is a part of the Rabourn Theater Series but can be read as a stand-alone. Readers who are into romance, love, and action should check this book out, and if you are a fan of Jessica Lauryn’s The Rabourn Theater Series, you won’t be disappointed. ~Morgan Lee Reviews

More about the author.
I was born and raised in New Jersey, where I live to this day. My husband and I make our home in a rural part of the state where we enjoy hiking and exploring our local gorges, waterfalls, reservoirs and arboretums. A born-again antique collector, I love hitting up the local (and sometimes not so local!) antique stores in search of pretty, Victorian treasures.  I’ve worked in a variety of jobs, where I’ve met a number of interesting people, several of whom have found their way into my stories.  I’m obsessed with upbeat 80’s music but try to stick with classical while I’m reading and writing. I like to listen to ‘Butterfly Comb’ from the movie Titanic, particularly when I’m writing a love scene. It’s a beautiful song and I find it incredibly inspiring!
Follow Jessica
Website – www.jessicalauryn.com
Newsletter - eepurl.com/ck5-O9
Twitter: @JessicaLauryn
Instagram: @jessicalaurynauthor
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JessicaLauryn
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jessica-lauryn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5081732.Jessica_Lauryn
Facebook Friend Page: https://www.facebook.com/romancebyjessicalauryn

Around The Fire New Release Spotlight.

Run Girl Run Even mothers are afraid of monsters.
by 
​Ellen Y. Mueller
​
About the book
Sixteen-year-old Tracie lives in a house divided by fear and a family secret she has yet to discover. Her grandma gives her a hint and the tools to unearth the past. Are the clues the answer to her prayers? If so, she’ll take her younger brother and split. Her dream can’t come true quick enough.  
One night, when her dad is in one of his violent rages, opportunity pounds on Tracie’s door. A male friend offers her an escape. But there’s a catch. She can’t sneak her brother out with her parents watching, and her dad demands her friend leave immediately.   On a whim, she goes, too. After all, he just wants to keep her safe and swears to have her best interest at heart.  
Caught in a current of lies and deception, Tracie’s swept farther from home than she ever expects. She can’t trust anyone, not even her mother. Exposing the secret may save Tracie and her little brother, but at what cost?
Order your copy today at one of these online retailers  books2read.com/u/baoBy6

​A peek inside the cover
Cal raked his fingers through his long hair. “Are you moving back in here? Your dad is a maniac.”
“You heard him. I don’t have a choice. Debby will have her baby in a couple weeks, and I have nowhere to go.”
“You can live with me. My place is small, but we could make it work.”
I didn’t know him well. What if we didn’t get along after I went with him? Besides, Dad would call the law on us.
The door rattled, and my heart thumped when it flew open.
“You know boys aren’t allowed in here,” Dad said.
“Dad, we’re just talking —”
“Shut your mouth, or I’ll shut it for you.” His posture stiffened, and he had the ‘don’t test me look,’ in his eye.
We had to get out of here. Dad blocked the exit. Rather than challenging him, I stayed put. I could hear Cal breathing. He was no match for my father.
Dad glared at both of us. “Cal it’s time to say goodbye.” He stomped away.
I exhaled. It was safer with Cal here. Any other time, Dad would’ve stripped off his belt and whipped me. There was a five-minute window for Cal to leave before Dad threw him out and go after me next.
“He’s crazy. Come with me.” Cal sat on the bed’s edge, one legdangling ready to stand.

Inspiration for writing Run Girl Run
The inspiration for Run Girl Run came from wanting to give hope to teens living in fear. Domestic abuse is America’s dirty little secret. Not long ago, no one talked about it. Beatings were a common family affair. Bruises went unchecked, and neighbors, teachers and relatives ignored or shamed the victims. 
My coming-of-age book gives an intimate view of strained family dynamics from a sixteen-year-old girl’s perspective. The main character flees her situation, but she longs for a deep family connection we all need. Along the way, secrets unfold. I’ve always been a fan of these kind of tales, so I invented one that I think readers will enjoy. 
Despite the serious plot, the readers will discover many lighter moments on their reading journey. And the story ends on a hopeful note.  Ellen Y. Mueller is an American writer who was raised in the midwest
during a time when kids didn’t have the distraction of cable television
or electronic games. As a child, she read hundreds of books. That
hasn’t changed as she aged. Her bookshelves are overflowing with
stories from every genre as well as nonfiction books.
After high school, she worked her way through college and was an
active member of the USAF. During her time with the military, she
trained as a medic which inspired her to follow her dreams to become
a physician.
 From the time she was a child, she enjoyed books and wrote stories. Now she writes for both teens and adults.  Her young adult, contemporary, suspense novel, Run Girl Run, is under contract with The Wild Rose Press and is scheduled for release 14 December,2022.
When she’s not writing, she reads, enjoys guitar music, and helps other writers who dream of seeing their books in print. She’s been a member of the Northwest Arkansas Writer’s critique group, and
Arkansas Ridge Writers for several years.  She has made her home in Arkansas with her  husband, four cats and two dogs.

For more about Ellen
​Ellenymueller.com
Amazon- www.amazon.com/Ellen-Y-Mueller
BookBub – Ellen Y. Mueller or @EYMueller
TikTok – @EllenYMueller_Author
Blogger- ellenymueller.blogspot.com/
Twitter link – @EllenYMueller
Instagram - @Ellenymuellerwrites
Goodreads – www.goodreads.com/book/show/63214504-run-girl-runfrom_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=uzLLD8LSP1&rank=1
Facebook - www.facebook.com/EllenYMueller/

Around the Fire Welcomes Cozy Mystery writer Ana Diamond.

Happy Thanksgiving Eve. This is one of my favorite holidays. Nothing says more homey than gatherings of family and friends I've been in prep mode for awhile making all my cook aheads and setting the table. I'll be brining the turkey for the first time today. We'll see how that goes. And before you go, take a chance at www.goodreads.com/book/show/61160281-kisa-shield-mates-of-dar for an opportunity to win an eBook. I hope you enjoy getting to know today's guest as much as I have. So let's dive in. Hi, Ana! I’m so glad you could join me around the fire today. Please introduce yourself. 
I’m a mom. I work full-time in the medical field. I live in the suburbs of New York. I hate commuting, but I like driving. My cats drive me nuts, but I love them.  

You sound busy. When you get some downtime, how do you spend it?
 I like to go to the gym when I can. I read mainly at night before bed. I like to read mystery with romance, but I usually fall asleep within a few pages. 

As an author, who do you have as your support system?
I belong to several online writing groups. I used to have more time to take writing classes, but now I mainly rely on The Wild Rose Press author network for support in my writing career. 

I hear you. I’m thankful for those authors as well. What or who authors inspire your writing?
I’ve recently been delving into psychological thrillers. I’m currently reading The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden. I find the twists and turns that you don’t see coming very appealing. The whole story turns on its head. I tend to add some twists in my stories too.  

One of my favorite things is finding names for my characters. How do you select yours? 
I usually pick names I’ve heard and liked in the past, and then I dig them out of my memory when I’m writing. 

I hate washing windows. The streaks never seem to all go away. What’s your worst household chore?
Dishes 

Researching for a story and be daunting? How do you manage it?
I do most of my research for books online. YouTube is a great source for getting different perspectives and can provide great visuals.  

Do you read your reviews?
I shouldn’t read reviews, but after the initial sting of a bad one, I try and take in the information as constructive and hopefully apply it to the next project.

My email folder is filled to the brim with people offering to aid my writing career. What’s the best money spent on writing:
I think the best money I spent as a writer was on professional editing. I think of it as part of the learning process.

Did you ever win something?
In middle school, I won first place in a ballroom dance contest. I don’t have any talent for dancing. I am just able to follow directions. 

What subjects should be taught in school? 
How to do your taxes, and how to buy a house.

Ana, thank you for spending time around the fire with me today. Before you head off, will you tell us about your book and where we can find out more about it and you? Body Snatched
by
​Ana Diamond
In a town full of secrets, who will come out alive?

What’s worse than losing a body from a funeral home? Losing two. But mortician and amateur sleuth, Lily Reynolds has a hunch. The new visitor in town, Rick Drakon, may have charmed his way into her life but she’s not fooled by his smooth talking ways. Problem is, Rick is a long-time friend of Lily’s new husband, Detective James Rivers. While James is busy convincing her to look elsewhere, Lily embarks on a dangerous path toward uncovering the truth. Will this case come between the couple or will Lily find herself closer to evil than ever before?  
https://books2read.com/u/3LVx5X

More about the author
When Ana Diamond isn't writing about tough gals finding love in unexpected places, she’s at work by day in the medical field. She writes romantic cozy mystery novels with feisty strong women and alluring men who can’t resist them. Her books are fast paced, entertaining and heartfelt all at once.
Ana is a 2020 Tara Contest Finalist for Body Conscious and 2015 Melody of Love contest finalist. She lives in New York with her husband, two children and two needy but wildly entertaining kitty cats.
You can follow Ana here.
​https://anadiamondauthor.com/
https://twitter.com/AuthorDiamond
https://www.instagram.com/anadiamondauthor/
https://www.facebook.com/anadiamondauthor
https://www.tiktok.com/@anadiamondauthor

Around the Fire New Release Spotlight.

Crinkles All the Way
by
Ann M. Trader
Contemporary Romance/steamy
Release day: 12-7-22

Back Cover
Benny O’Brien owns his reputation—carefree bachelor and successful computer design engineer with one of Atlanta’s premier firms. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, he agrees to teach a middle school coding club as a favor to a coworker. He expects to debug computer statements...not his heart.
As the new public relations coordinator at the firm, Claudia Banks spends her days strategizing market segments and her evenings relaxing with her close-knit group of girlfriends…or curling up with a favorite book. When her office crush signs on to her school outreach program, she braces for a lesson in irresistible attraction.
The stakes rise when the two come together over the school’s Christmas dance and a mysterious scrapbook. As secrets tug at their hearts, will they choose honesty and go all in for love?

Where you can get a copy
https://books2read.com/u/bzVVO2
Goodreads
BookBub

What inspired the story
Benny O’Brien is a supporting character from my first book with The Wild Rose Press, The Gingerbread Cookie Code. In this book, Benny plays the smart, confident, and charming best friend to Clay.     
As I was thinking about writing my next book, Crinkles All the Way, my thoughts kept circling back to Benny…and what was his real challenge? What made him tick? I began thinking about learning styles and successful people I’ve known with dyslexia. That clicked for me, and I began sketching out Benny and Claudia, their workplace romance, and a little “twist” with the cookie recipe and scrapbook. I had a lot of fun with this story and hope readers will enjoy it!
Heat Level: Steamy (not erotica) 

​ More about Ann
I enjoy spending time with my family, trying out new recipes, and relaxing on my back porch to read and write. These days I take walks around my neighborhood, but when I was sixteen, I hiked the Grand Canyon with a group of friends. I love watching television dramas (in no special order: Stranger Things, The Gilded Age, The Last Kingdom, 1883, Outlander, Poldark, Yellowstone, Outer Banks, and Peaky Blinders) and reading a great romance book.
Follow the Author
Website: www.annmtrader.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annmtraderbooks
Twitter: https://twitter.com/anntrader5
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ann-m-trader
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21925238.Ann_M_Trader

Around The Fire with Tena Stetler.

Hi everyone! Today's Around the Fire is with one of my camping buddies. Nope, we haven't shared an actual fire yet but one of these days, Tena, we are going to have a great time swapping stories while toasting smores and sipping a hot chocolate or maybe an adult beverage.
Hey there DV. I’m thrilled to be on your fantastic blog today.  Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts on backstory and chat about my new holiday release, MERINGUE SNOWFLAKE MAGIC, part of the multi-author Christmas Cookie Series from The Wild Rose press. All books in the series can be read as a standalone.
Oh, maybe instead of smores you'll bake us some of those magical cookies, please and thank you. Now you have a little something to say about "backstory" don't you? Backstory is it a dirty word or is it a necessity? How many times have you heard too much backstory will spoil your book? But how are your readers going to find out about what makes your characters tick? What makes them who they are today?
 
Totally true! But there's a line as Gandalf said, "You shall not pass!" Tell me about your thoughts on it.

Now I’m not talking about an info dump. I’m suggesting a sprinkling of backstory for each character throughout the book where appropriate so the reader can better understand the characters reactions and plot development. Otherwise, your reader may get lost in your story, not in a good way, or your characters will fall flat rather than be engaging.  This is especially important in writing a series or sequel. Scattering a smattering of information about what has happened in the other books and what the characters have endured previously makes for a richer experience for your reader. 

In other words, it helps us either get attached to a character or even hate a bad one more.

So in my mind, I’d say yes to backstory in small amounts spread throughout the book, as is necessary to keep the reader engaged. What do you think?

Tell us in the comments, reader. We really want to know what you think. And authors how many of you were spanked for backstories? How did you fix it or did you let it fly? What were the results?

You have a lovely new holiday story for us, Tena. Can you Share about 

​ MERINGUE SNOWFLAKE MAGIC   
by
Tena Stetler
Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/bzVO19 

Will her presence in Raven's Hollow put the holiday festival and cookie contest at risk?

​After being in the wrong place at the wrong time Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home.  Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado.  She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust, though the deputy sheriff is hard to resist.  Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head.  He senses she’s more than she seems but so is he. When her cover is blown and her life is in danger it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest. What is Christmas without a little magic? 
How about a sneak peek between the pages of MERINGUE SNOWFLAKE MAGIC? The wind had changed direction, and the pretty ice crystals were like tiny needles buffeting her face. She looked up and down Main Street and saw only one stoplight. Finally, she turned around and walked backward for a few yards. Glancing over her shoulder, she could see her street. She started to turn around, her foot slipped on the curb and arms flailing, down she went with a thud. Clutching her precious box of goodies in front of her, they were safe. However, the mug of hot chocolate popped the lid and sent hot chocolate in all directions, including all over her brand new bright-colored parka and the sidewalk. When she tried to get up, each foot went in a different direction, then down she went again. Getting to her knees, she crawled to the sidewalk, carefully got to her feet, and tried to brush the wet snow off. The damp material stuck to her. She began to shiver as the wind whipped around her. “Hey lady, you all right?” A man stopped his SUV in the middle of the road and jumped out. “That was quite a spill you took.” He smiled wide, picking up her mug and lid. “But I see your goodies from Candi’s place are still intact. Let me give you a ride. You’re going to freeze as wet as your clothes are.” He held out his hand. “Braydon Nightwing, but everyone calls me Blaze. I own the pizza place a few blocks down the way.”  When she reached for his hand, her arm shook. Her teeth chattered as she tried to say her name. “Wynterrr.” “It’s warm in my SUV. Please tell me where you’re going. I’ll get you there.” He pried her fingers from the box, helped her over to the vehicle, and opened the passenger door. Warm air rushed out of the SUV, caressing her face. Please don’t let him be a serial killer. Slowly, she reached behind her and patted her waistband. Shit. Why didn’t I bring my weapon? Getting in a car with a stranger wasn’t smart. But the warmth emanating from the vehicle was inviting.  Death by serial killer or freeze. She crawled into the SUV and huddled in front of the heater vents.
Get your copy today:
https://books2read.com/u/bzVO19 

More About the Author: 
Tena Stetler is a best-selling author of award winning paranormal romance/mystery with an over-active imagination.  She wrote her first vampire romance as a tween, to the chagrin of her mother and the 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. When she’s not writing, her time is spent kayaking, camping, hiking, biking or just relaxing in the great Colorado outdoors.   Her books tell tales of magical kick-ass women and mystical alpha males that dare to love them. Travel, adventure, and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales. 

Find out more about Tena and her books by visiting or following on Social Media Links: Website: https://www.tenastetler.com 
Authors’ Secret’s Blog - https://www.tenastetler.com/category/authors-secrets-blog/ 
My Say What Blog - http://www.tenastetler.com/category/m... 
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/tenastetler.author 
Twitter Page: https://www.twitter.com/TenaStetler     
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14187532.Tena_Stetler 
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/author/tenastetler 
Newsletter: https://www.tenastetler.com/newsletter-signup/ 
Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/tenastetler 
Tribber - http://triberr.com/TenaStetler 
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tena-stetler 
nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenastetler/ 
Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/tenajean2014 
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tena-stetler-10057978/

If you're interested in other books in this series visit
www.amazon.com/dp/B09DB5B7KL  

Around The Fire New Release Spotlight. The Inn On Gooseneck Lane.

When a small-town boy breaks a city girl’s heart, and they are thrown together years later
by well-meaning, interfering relatives to revive the holiday-festooned Vermont inn,
can they learn to forget, forgive, and rekindle lost love?

Nat Thomas calls Mistletoe Falls, Vermont home where summers were magical, her aunt became the parent she needed, and high school love bloomed. Sixteen years later, that love lost, Nat returns home for a much-needed break. She’s recruited to revitalize her aunt’s picturesque inn. Will the boy who broke her heart be the man who rallies to save her home and capture her heart…for good?
Brad Matthews returns home to buy Green Mountain Sports, after years as an outdoor adventure guide. He’s thrown into partnering an event to revive the town’s inn and boost his business. Can he work with the woman who demolished his heart and ran with no explanation?
In a small town where everyone knows your business and interfering relatives revive snicker-doodling, the lost art of matchmaking, Nat and Brad may not stand a chance. Can the two find enough heart to forgive and accept love again?

The Wild Rose Press, Inc 
October 17, 2022


Get your copy today
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-inn-on-gooseneck-lane-delsora-lowe/1141875217​
www.amazon.com/Inn-Gooseneck-Lane-Delsora-Lowe-ebook/dp/B0B7KGYZVV
books.apple.com/us/book/the-inn-on-gooseneck-lane/id6443230581
INSPIRATION FOR THIS BOOK:
My original inspiration for writing this book came to me on a drive through Vermont in 2017. Winding through the countryside in the fall, I followed a route along a rushing creek as I climbed up and over mountain passes. The green leaves were slowly turning to their bright fall colors—my favorite time of year. Beside the narrow, curving road rushed a creek in a hurry to get to the bottom and run through one of the lovely, small towns. Every now and then, a lane sign would appear and lead to a tiny bridge over the creek that led into the trees and an unseen dwelling beyond. One such sign heralded Gooseneck Lane. My first thought was what a lovely name for a country inn. My second thought was an inn like that needs a story.
It is no secret to those who know me well, I am “addicted” to Hallmark movies. I heard that Hallmark was launching a new side of the business—books—and that they would be putting out the call in late 2018. I always wanted to write a Hallmark-esque type book. As a young person, I loved the Hallmark romantic dramas that were aired as special movies a few times a year. I had always dreamed of having one of my movies being shown. This was long before I ever started writing, and years before I had my first (very short) story published in my high school quarterly when I was in ninth grade. It was another thirty-five years before I ever put pen to paper to write my very first book (long buried somewhere “under my bed.”)
I have published seven books independently, with one more being released in late 2022. But to say I’m excited to release my first book published by The Wild Rose Press would be an understatement. Special thanks to my editor, Leanne Morgena, my cover artist Diana Carlile, and to all my author friends at The Wild Rose Press and elsewhere who have encouraged, gently pushed me, and downright shoved me to write and edit and dream over the years.

About the Author
Cottages to cabins ~ Keep the home fires burning ~
Delsora Lowe writes small town sweet and spicy romances and contemporary westerns from the mountains of Colorado to the shores of Maine.
Author of the Starlight Grille series, Serenity Harbor Maine novellas, and the Cowboys of Mineral Springs series, Lowe has also authored short romances for Woman’s World magazine. Her newest novella is The Love Left Behind. Look for both a Christmas novel (The Inn at Gooseneck Lane) and novella (Holiday Hitchhiker) later this fall.

You can follow her here 
Author website: www.delsoralowe.com
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/delsoraloweauthor/community/
Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Delsora-Lowe/e/B01M61OM39/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Books2Read Author page: https://www.books2read.com/ap/8GWm98/Delsora-Lowe
BookBub Author Page: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/delsora-lowe-93c6987f-129d-483d-9f5a-abe603876518
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16045986.Delsora_Lowe
Instagram: #delsoralowe / https://www.instagram.com/delsoralowe/

Around The Fire Book Spotlight with Mary Cunningham.

Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder
by
Mary Cunningham

Andi Anna Jones, so-so travel agent and amateur sleuth, puts aside her resentment of her father's widow and books a sixtieth birthday cruise to Cancun for Ruby and three friends. Never does Andi imagine the cruise will include the murder of a has-been lounge singer—or that Ruby might be the main suspect.
Flirting with more than danger after arriving in Mexico, Andi connects with charming local sheriff, Manual Gonzales. An embarrassing night involving the sheriff, too many margaritas, and a Mariachi band, can't quell her determination to clear the name of her ex-stepmother.
While gathering clues and interviewing witnesses, however, she suspects dear old step-mom isn't the only one in jeopardy.

What others are saying
“Cunningham’s wacky characters will have you snorting your drink and wishing you could be protagonist Andi Anna Jones’s best friend…or at least a fly on the wall!”
—Karen MacInerney, USA Today Bestselling author of the Dewberry Farms Mysteries

​https://www.amazon.com/Margaritas-Mayhem-Murder-Jones-Mystery-ebook/dp/B09QXR7WKX/
www.barnesandnoble.com/w/margaritas-mayhem-murder-mary-cunningham/1127355519
More about the author
After 10 years as a bank teller, followed by a horrifying stint as a travel agent and more rewarding experience teaching travel and tourism and the airline computer reservation system, she finally realized that her heart belonged to writing.
Her childhood experiences, and a recurring dream about a mysterious attic, inspired her to create characters, Cynthia and Augusta Lee, for her award-winning 'Tween series, "Cynthia's Attic." Like Cynthia and Gus, her childhood best friend, Cynthia and she grew up in a small, Southern Indiana town...the setting for the series. Cunningham and her friends spent much of the summer playing softball, hide and seek, badminton, and croquet in a vacant lot on her block. Years later, those joyful summers would be recalled in the five-book series, "Cynthia's Attic."
She is also co-author of the humor-filled lifestyle book, (WOOF) Women Only Over Fifty, along with a published short stories, Ghost Light, and "Cynthia's Attic" short story, Christmas With Daisy.
Follow for more informations about the author and her books
http://www.marycunninghambooks.com
https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Cunningham/e/B002BLNEK4​
https://www.facebook.com/Cynthiasattic/​
http://twitter.com/MaryCunningham
http://goodreads.com/author/show/367223.Mary_Cunningham
www.goodreads.com/book/show/60202734-margaritas-mayhem-murder Coming Soon.

New Release Spotlight Kisa, Shield-Mates of Dar book 2.

Way back when I first began to write Felice was the first book I published knowing that it would be a series about sisters. I'd planned for there to be three. I like three. It's one of my favorite numbers. I also like circles. They are my favorite shape. Ask my husband what kind of door I dream of and without hesitation he'll tell you a round one like Bilbo Baggins. Sorry,  squirrel ! 
So much has happened to me since that time I first pushed the "Publish Now" button. I'm a hybrid author who is both traditionally and independently published. Contemporary books have imbedded themselves into my genres. But I always return to fantasy. 
Over the years I realized how little I knew about writing and publishing. Every time you learn more. About the craft. About publishing. About yourself. Earlier this year I pull Felice from the listings and had her re-edited and recovered in anticipation of launching Kisa into the world. 
I also learned that the three sisters have a long lost relative. I learned that there were dragons in the Darrian world. I learned not to kill someone off in the first book and then try to bring them back in the second.
So, (anyone who was at my library presentation will poke me about using so-Nadine) Kisa's been a long time coming. I hope you fall in love with the middle daughter of King Dar who wants to take care of everyone. Who finds herself trying to balance her needs against the world's. Who often resents being the caretaker but also is compelled to do her duty. Something I think many of us struggle with. ​ Kisa, Shield-Mates of Dar Book 2
by
D. V. Stone
​
In a war between humans and shifters, sparks, and fur fly…Until scales appear.
 
Princess Kisa, the middle daughter in the shifter nation of Dar, is often overlooked and underestimated. Always the devoted caregiver of family and country, she’s come to terms with her future as a Shield-Mate in a political marriage. Many, including Kisa, are surprised when her father names her as heir to his throne.
Kalman, once a privileged son of the former protectorate Sorota, is an outcast and a man without a future. The people of Ruinae consider him a weak, self-indulgent man. Only his trusted servant knows the heart of the soldier beneath the veneer.
Forces are gathering against the two countries, and now dragons, long banished to the outland, have returned. Kisa and Kalman are charged by King Dar to find out how entrenched the dragons are with the enemy. Since a long-ago meeting, Kalman never forgot the spitfire Lynx-shifter. He’s no longer the boy she’d met, but a man. One determined to have her despite their differences. But Kisa can’t fall in love with the enemy. Can she? Would her people accept not only the son of Sorota but one whom her family also seeks retribution?
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BHFBLYLJ
Publication date ‏ : ‎ December 1, 2022
https://www.amazon.com/Kisa-Shield-Mates-Dar-D-V-Stone-ebook/dp/B0BHFBLYLJ
https://www.bookbub.com/books/kisa-shield-mates-of-dar-by-d-v-stone
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61160281-kisa-shield-mates-of-dar
About the Author
Hi, my name is D. V. Stone. I am a multi-genre author of two independently published books. Felice, Shield-Mates of Dar is a fantasy romance. Agent Sam Carter and the Mystery at Branch Lake is a mid-grade paranormal. Recently, Rock House Grill was released by Wild Rose Press. Rainbow Sprinkles, a novella released on July 8th. I also host Welcome to the Campfire and A Peek Through the Window, both weekly blogs. Here’s a little more about me.
Born in Brooklyn, D.V. Stone has moved around a bit and even lived for a time on a dairy farm in Minnesota before moving back east. Throughout her wandering, she always considered herself a Jersey Girl. She met and married the love of her life, Pete—a lifelong Jersey Man, and moved this time to Sussex County. They live with Hali, a mixed breed from the local shelter, and their cat Baby.
D.V.’s career path varied from working with the disabled and becoming a volunteer EMT, which in turn led to working in hospital emergency rooms and then in a women’s state prison. After a few years, she took a break from medicine and became the owner of Heavenly Brew, a specialty coffee shop in Sparta, NJ, and a small restaurant in Lafayette. Life handed some setbacks. She ended up back in the medical field, but this time in a veterinary emergency hospital. 
“Thank you for taking the time to read about me. Each time you open the pages to one of my books, I hope you’ll be swept away by the story and find encouragement in your own life, never to give up on hope.”
D.V. Stone
Link Tree For one-stop connections
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Books by
D. V. Stone
 From The Wild Rose Press
Rainbow Sprinkles
After the storm come the rainbows.
Rock House Grill Impact Series Book One
One man’s choices. One woman’s Impact
Jazz House Impact Series Book Two
One woman’s choices. One man’s Impact
Australia Burns Contributing Author
Coming April 4, 2023
Sophia’s Magic Beans
~
Independently Published
Shield-Mates of Dar
Felice, Book One
Kisa, Book Two
Coming in 2023
Orsolo, Book Three
Rhian, Book Four
Mid-Grade
Agent Sam Carter
The Mystery at Branch Lake Book One
The Mystery at High Pointe Tower Book Two
For further information https://www.dvstoneauthor.com/booksbydvstone.html
​Coming March 2023
Sea Hunter
by
D. V. Stone
​
Book Four of The Mortar & Pestle anthology
A historical action/adventure/romance.
If you like Indiana Jones and Lara Croft, you'll love Jack Alexander and Zahra Corbyn.