D.V. Stone's Blog, page 30
November 17, 2021
Welcome Margot Johnson to Around The Fire.
It's a special fireside chat with fellow Wild Rose Press author Margot Johnson. I made the fire extra warm today. She's from the way north in Canada and reminded me of my years in Minnesota and what -40 degrees feels like. No a recommended temp for strolling through the woods, just saying. But whether it's warm or cold where you are you're always welcome to share my fire. Now let's grab a cup of something soothing and you are encouraged to join the conversation. 
Hi, Margo, I'm so glad you joined us today. Let's jump right into the deep-end. We all have the official version of who we are, but who you are other than your bio?
I’m a real family person. As an introvert, I don’t need a lot of social interaction, but I do love to stay in close touch with our big blended family through texts, Facetime, and Zoom. My mom learned to text at 87, and she’s a lively contributor.
Variety is the spice of life, that said, what interests besides writing do you enjoy?
I walk at least 10,000 steps a day. My monthly book club helps me expand my reading choices—we read a wide variety including mysteries, thrillers, biographies, chick lit, romance, literary fiction, books off the bestseller lists, and stories by Canadian authors. I love to travel—Mexico every February and wherever else we find deals or interesting things to do. I also serve as a Board member for the Saskatchewan Writers Guild.
Busy lady. Book clubs are great for drawing us into what we may not usually pick up. You said you are an introvert but do you have a network or support system?
I’m lucky to have a supportive husband and extended family. My sister Donna Gartshore writes for Harlequin Love Inspired, so writing is a favorite topic at family dinners. During normal times, I attend coffee meetings of the SK Romance Writers, and it’s a talented and successful group of authors who support each other.
How wonderful you have an insider in the family to to chat with about writing. I fear I bore mine when I talk about it. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? My dad, Ian Bickle, was a writer and editor. From a young age, I saw writing as a way of life, and I wanted to be like him. He used to sit at the dining room table and click away on an old, manual typewriter.
So, it's runs in the family. I'm jealous. Other than walking in sub-zero temperatures, have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
I’m excited about an adventure to come. Two years ago, I applied and received an invitation to the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. It was postponed because of Covid, but I hope it might happen in 2022.
That's amazing! What an opportunity. I wonder if you're going to wear a hat or a
fascinator? You'll have to post a picture. What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme?
I have a collection of dog-themed mugs, and I love them all. The most recent addition says, “I will always woof you.”
Favorite childhood book?
I read all the Nancy Drew books, and I loved the Secret Garden.
Worst household chore?
Washing floors. Our floors are always covered with dog pawprints.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Definitely, the tickets. I have a long wish list of travel destinations, especially throughout Europe.
Did you ever win something?
I came within one number of winning a car on the TV game show “Let’s Make a Deal.”
Do you play board games? What games do you like?
Our family is big on games, and we even hold fake medal ceremonies on makeshift podiums using chairs and/or coffee tables. Favorites include Catchphrase, Telephone Pictionary, Uno, and Utter Nonsense.
What was your first job?
As a student I taught figure skating. My first real job after graduating from university was writing ad copy at a radio station.
What’s the most amazing natural occurrence you’ve witnessed?
Baseball-sized hail! We were staying in a cabin at Waskesiu Lake in northern Saskatchewan when a huge summer storm hit.
What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
So far, my books haven’t demanded a lot of research, but I do it as I write or revise. My first book featured an air force pilot, so I learned from a former air force pilot turned flight instructor and had him review the sections that referred to flight.
How do you select the names of your characters?
probably spend too much time on it, but it’s like naming a baby. Names give a certain feel to a character, and I often google popular names the years my characters were born. I learned from my editor to avoid names that start with the same letter so readers don’t get confused.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I’m happy to read and learn from every review. I wish more readers would post them.
What was your hardest scene to write?
I can’t think of one specific scene, but in general, I find writing the middle sections hardest because I want to avoid the ‘sagging middle’ and keep the plot and pace strong enough to hold a reader’s interest.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
I attended a 2-3 day romance writers’ retreat that was a three-hour drive away and based in an old monastery. I enjoyed quiet time during the day, got a solid start on a new novel, ate delicious, home-cooked meals, and socialized with other writers in the evening. It was fun and productive!
Margo, you are such a fun person. Thank you so much for sharing my fire today. If you can, before you leave, how about telling us where we can find out more about you and your books? And for our guests make sure you go to the end and read some interesting tips and insights. How do you dress for a walk in -40s. I say with a shawl, slippers and a cup of tea in front of the fire. But my intrepid guest bundles up and heads out.
Let it Snowball a Christmas novella by
Margot Johnson
Christmas tours brim with lights, cookies, and…unexpected romance?
After a short drive, the busload arrived at their first stop. “You’re in for a treat.” Merilee leapt up, leaned over, and gave directions on where to park. Absorbing Ross’s delicious scent, clean like snow infused with a trace of peppermint, she jerked back and steadied her breath. Sudden, shocking warmth flooded her insides. Now where was she? She paused to gather her wayward thoughts.
“These rules apply for each stop so we can all enjoy the goodies inside and still keep the tour on schedule. You are free to choose from several platters of cookies. If you would like to sample other kinds or take some home, you can purchase as many as you’d like. We’ll stay for thirty minutes, and then I’ll jingle.” She demonstrated with a string of bells. “Last one back on the bus has to tell a joke or lead a song. If you agree, shout snowball.”
“Snowball.” In a chorus of voices, the group hollered back the right answer.
She lowered the mic. “What about you, Santa?”
He shifted the gear into Park. “Nobody’s going anywhere without me.” He straightened his hat and quirked a fluffy eyebrow.
She smiled, folded her arms, and tapped a foot. Her boots were pretty eye-catching covered in green and red toppers with bells on the toes. Maybe she could cajole him into some good-natured joking. “Santa, you know what happens to kids who don’t behave. You don’t want to end up on the Naughty List, do you?”
“Snowball.” He kept a straight face.
Review from New York Times Bestselling Author Mary Balogh:
“I loved LET IT SNOWBALL. From the first page I wanted to book a place on Merilee’s nightly Season’s Eatings Christmas tour bus with its three stops at cookie shops to sample and buy. On the last page I wanted to book ahead for the Valentine’s tour! Margot Johnson has a way of making a festive atmosphere seem very real. Combine that with a warm and gentle love story that feels truly authentic, and you have a winner of a story.”
Links:
Let it Snowball
Love Takes Flight
Love Leads the Way
Also author of the novels Love Takes Flight and Love Leads the Way. I write feel-good stories about women who chase their dreams and bump into romance along the way. They live in small communities near my home in the Canadian prairies, and they count on an eclectic mix of family and friends to make their lives interesting and fun.
My new release is available as an eBook on Amazon and major online bookstores. I hope you agree it’s a fun way to celebrate the Christmas season!
In my story, the heroine, Merilee, shares her famous cookie recipe for chocolate snowballs. Maybe you’ll want to add it to your Christmas baking list.
Website: margotjohnson.ca
Facebook: MargotJohnsonAuthor
Twitter: @AuthorMargot
My writing tip: Don’t wait for the perfect idea or ideal moment. Just sit at your keyboard and write!
Inspiration for this story: I live in a place where winter storms and frigid weather are common. I also love Christmas.
Last year during lockdown, my husband and I couldn’t visit friends and family in person, so we delivered Christmas light necklaces to their doors and then connected online. We also bundled up for a walk on a minus forty degree day. I can imagine my characters Merilee and Ross sharing similar adventures.
One wish: I love hearing feedback from readers. I wish everyone who reads Let it Snowball would post a review.
Hi, Margo, I'm so glad you joined us today. Let's jump right into the deep-end. We all have the official version of who we are, but who you are other than your bio?I’m a real family person. As an introvert, I don’t need a lot of social interaction, but I do love to stay in close touch with our big blended family through texts, Facetime, and Zoom. My mom learned to text at 87, and she’s a lively contributor.
Variety is the spice of life, that said, what interests besides writing do you enjoy?
I walk at least 10,000 steps a day. My monthly book club helps me expand my reading choices—we read a wide variety including mysteries, thrillers, biographies, chick lit, romance, literary fiction, books off the bestseller lists, and stories by Canadian authors. I love to travel—Mexico every February and wherever else we find deals or interesting things to do. I also serve as a Board member for the Saskatchewan Writers Guild.
Busy lady. Book clubs are great for drawing us into what we may not usually pick up. You said you are an introvert but do you have a network or support system?
I’m lucky to have a supportive husband and extended family. My sister Donna Gartshore writes for Harlequin Love Inspired, so writing is a favorite topic at family dinners. During normal times, I attend coffee meetings of the SK Romance Writers, and it’s a talented and successful group of authors who support each other.
How wonderful you have an insider in the family to to chat with about writing. I fear I bore mine when I talk about it. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? My dad, Ian Bickle, was a writer and editor. From a young age, I saw writing as a way of life, and I wanted to be like him. He used to sit at the dining room table and click away on an old, manual typewriter.
So, it's runs in the family. I'm jealous. Other than walking in sub-zero temperatures, have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
I’m excited about an adventure to come. Two years ago, I applied and received an invitation to the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. It was postponed because of Covid, but I hope it might happen in 2022.
That's amazing! What an opportunity. I wonder if you're going to wear a hat or a
fascinator? You'll have to post a picture. What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme?
I have a collection of dog-themed mugs, and I love them all. The most recent addition says, “I will always woof you.”
Favorite childhood book?
I read all the Nancy Drew books, and I loved the Secret Garden.
Worst household chore?
Washing floors. Our floors are always covered with dog pawprints.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Definitely, the tickets. I have a long wish list of travel destinations, especially throughout Europe.
Did you ever win something?
I came within one number of winning a car on the TV game show “Let’s Make a Deal.”
Do you play board games? What games do you like?
Our family is big on games, and we even hold fake medal ceremonies on makeshift podiums using chairs and/or coffee tables. Favorites include Catchphrase, Telephone Pictionary, Uno, and Utter Nonsense.
What was your first job?
As a student I taught figure skating. My first real job after graduating from university was writing ad copy at a radio station.
What’s the most amazing natural occurrence you’ve witnessed?
Baseball-sized hail! We were staying in a cabin at Waskesiu Lake in northern Saskatchewan when a huge summer storm hit.
What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
So far, my books haven’t demanded a lot of research, but I do it as I write or revise. My first book featured an air force pilot, so I learned from a former air force pilot turned flight instructor and had him review the sections that referred to flight.
How do you select the names of your characters?
probably spend too much time on it, but it’s like naming a baby. Names give a certain feel to a character, and I often google popular names the years my characters were born. I learned from my editor to avoid names that start with the same letter so readers don’t get confused.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I’m happy to read and learn from every review. I wish more readers would post them.
What was your hardest scene to write?
I can’t think of one specific scene, but in general, I find writing the middle sections hardest because I want to avoid the ‘sagging middle’ and keep the plot and pace strong enough to hold a reader’s interest.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
I attended a 2-3 day romance writers’ retreat that was a three-hour drive away and based in an old monastery. I enjoyed quiet time during the day, got a solid start on a new novel, ate delicious, home-cooked meals, and socialized with other writers in the evening. It was fun and productive!
Margo, you are such a fun person. Thank you so much for sharing my fire today. If you can, before you leave, how about telling us where we can find out more about you and your books? And for our guests make sure you go to the end and read some interesting tips and insights. How do you dress for a walk in -40s. I say with a shawl, slippers and a cup of tea in front of the fire. But my intrepid guest bundles up and heads out.
Let it Snowball a Christmas novella by Margot Johnson
Christmas tours brim with lights, cookies, and…unexpected romance?
After a short drive, the busload arrived at their first stop. “You’re in for a treat.” Merilee leapt up, leaned over, and gave directions on where to park. Absorbing Ross’s delicious scent, clean like snow infused with a trace of peppermint, she jerked back and steadied her breath. Sudden, shocking warmth flooded her insides. Now where was she? She paused to gather her wayward thoughts.
“These rules apply for each stop so we can all enjoy the goodies inside and still keep the tour on schedule. You are free to choose from several platters of cookies. If you would like to sample other kinds or take some home, you can purchase as many as you’d like. We’ll stay for thirty minutes, and then I’ll jingle.” She demonstrated with a string of bells. “Last one back on the bus has to tell a joke or lead a song. If you agree, shout snowball.”
“Snowball.” In a chorus of voices, the group hollered back the right answer.
She lowered the mic. “What about you, Santa?”
He shifted the gear into Park. “Nobody’s going anywhere without me.” He straightened his hat and quirked a fluffy eyebrow.
She smiled, folded her arms, and tapped a foot. Her boots were pretty eye-catching covered in green and red toppers with bells on the toes. Maybe she could cajole him into some good-natured joking. “Santa, you know what happens to kids who don’t behave. You don’t want to end up on the Naughty List, do you?”
“Snowball.” He kept a straight face.
Review from New York Times Bestselling Author Mary Balogh:
“I loved LET IT SNOWBALL. From the first page I wanted to book a place on Merilee’s nightly Season’s Eatings Christmas tour bus with its three stops at cookie shops to sample and buy. On the last page I wanted to book ahead for the Valentine’s tour! Margot Johnson has a way of making a festive atmosphere seem very real. Combine that with a warm and gentle love story that feels truly authentic, and you have a winner of a story.”
Links:
Let it Snowball
Love Takes Flight
Love Leads the Way
Also author of the novels Love Takes Flight and Love Leads the Way. I write feel-good stories about women who chase their dreams and bump into romance along the way. They live in small communities near my home in the Canadian prairies, and they count on an eclectic mix of family and friends to make their lives interesting and fun.
My new release is available as an eBook on Amazon and major online bookstores. I hope you agree it’s a fun way to celebrate the Christmas season!
In my story, the heroine, Merilee, shares her famous cookie recipe for chocolate snowballs. Maybe you’ll want to add it to your Christmas baking list.
Website: margotjohnson.ca
Facebook: MargotJohnsonAuthor
Twitter: @AuthorMargot
My writing tip: Don’t wait for the perfect idea or ideal moment. Just sit at your keyboard and write!
Inspiration for this story: I live in a place where winter storms and frigid weather are common. I also love Christmas.
Last year during lockdown, my husband and I couldn’t visit friends and family in person, so we delivered Christmas light necklaces to their doors and then connected online. We also bundled up for a walk on a minus forty degree day. I can imagine my characters Merilee and Ross sharing similar adventures.
One wish: I love hearing feedback from readers. I wish everyone who reads Let it Snowball would post a review.
November 15, 2021
Around The Fire Welcomes Today's Guest, Bestselling Author, Ruth Casie.
Happy Monday to you all. It's a chilly day in New Jersey but I've lit the fire so it's toasty warm. Thank you for joining me and today's special guest who is also from the Garden State. Ruth is a best selling author and her latest book releases November 16th. Yep, tomorrow! So grab a cuppa and join the conversation. 
Hi, Ruth. Thank you for joining me today at the fire. Let's get right to it. Who you are other than your bio?
I am the proud mother of three wonderful children. I have written that sentence at least three times. Children. They are all have children of their own. Our older daughter is a pre-k teacher who did an awesome job with remoting teaching. She has a daughter who is 16 and a son 13. Our younger daughter has just started her own cottage baking cookie business. She made cookies for Anna St. Claire and I with our signature and book covers for the reader’s event we went to Romancing the Gold Coast. She and her husband have a daughter who is 4. Our son is the youngest is a cyber security engineer and if I knew what he did he’d have to kill me. His ring on my phone is Secret Agent Man. He and his wife have a new baby who turned 3 months last week.
So you have a full house at times. I wish I had someone to make special cookies for me. Sigh, no that wouldn't work. I'd eat them. So hold the cookies and tell me, what interests besides writing do you enjoy?
I am working on a new Regency series, so a lot of my recent reading is research driven. Today it was Napoleon’s escape from Elba Island. I enjoy doing count-cross stitch, I’ve started a new project for the upcoming holiday. A gift for the new baby.
I am also taking a class on paper craft. It’s always difficult to find just the right ‘thing’ to give away at a conference or in a giveaway. In this class we are learning to make projects that are useable, pretty, and can be branded.
I'm no crafty, but making paper crafts sounds interesting. Who is your network or support system?
This is tough question. There are so many people who have and still do contribute to my career. My first critique partners Emma Kaye, Nicole S. Patrick, and Lita Harris. The writing groups I belong to New Jersey Romance Writers, Hudson Valley Romance Writers, Washington Romance Writers DC, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and Regency Fiction Writers (aka Beau Monde)
My publishing twin, Julie Rowe. Our first novels were published by Carina Press and were released on the same day. We have stayed very close friends. Eliza Knight who was my mentor. Kathryn LeVeque my editor and role model.
There are my readers, librarians, friends, and family. I don’t think anyone does it alone.
Wow that's an impressive list and you're right, I couldn't imagine doing this alone. Okay, Jersey Girl, tell us about your neighborhood? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
I live in Teaneck, a northern New Jersey town about five miles outside of New York City. We are a town of roughly 40K people. The township was created in 1895, but the first buildings date back to 1704. Our area was prominent during the Revolutionary War with George Washington and his troops passing through Teaneck on their hasty retreat from the British.
Cedar Lane is our main street in town and the crowning shop is Bischoff’s Confectionery. It is an old-fashioned ice cream soda fountain experience complete with red leather spinning stools. I LOVE the cherry vanilla ice cream.
Bischoff's sounds wonderful. I love treasures we can find close to home. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
While I have been to Zoom conference this past October I went to my first in person event in 18 months, Romancing the Gold Coast in Glen Cove Long Island. This was a two-day reader’s event with games and crafts, an elegant tea and delicious ball. Many of us were in costumes which made the event even more special. I met fans I only knew by name and saw authors and librarians I hadn’t seen in a long time.
Those virtual events were great, but there's nothing like meeting and greeting in person. I mentioned treasures above, do you have a particular object like a piece of jewelry or a keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you?
I have a pin that is very special to me. My grandmother gave it to me when I graduated from college. I had never seen it before. It’s a beautiful diamond and platinum antique pin. After all these years of not having anyplace to where it, I finally found the event and dress to wear it, on the Regency costume I wore to the Romancing the Gold Coast reader’s event this last October.
That sounds lovely. I have my mom's sweet sixteen ring that I'm going to hand down to my granddaughter. What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme.
My most favorite mug is the one that says, Nana. It’s just the right size and it keeps my coffee hot.
I bet drinking from it reminds you at every sip of those beautiful grands. What's you favorite childhood book? Or writing that inspired you to become an author.
My favorite childhood author was Walter Farley and his Black Stallion series. I had read Nancy Drew. I didn’t really like the Hardy Boys. But there was something about this series that hooked me. It a triumphant tale of a boy and a wild horse. Alec is on ship and the stallion is being transported. There is a storm at sea. Alec saves the horse. They both make it to a deserted island where they have adventures and are eventually rescued.
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Easy answer… Cherry vanilla ice cream from Bischoff’s
Worst household chore?
The worst household chore ever is the laundry for one simple reason. I cannot reach the bottom of the washer to remove the clothes. Therefore, (*smiley face*) my husband does the wash.
If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why?
I would love to travel to London in the Regency era about 1825. I am currently writing a Regency romance and I am immersed in the era down to the clothes.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
I would take unlimited international first-class tickets and travel, travel, travel. I want to see places I write about again and again
Do you play board games? What games do you like?
Sometimes I play Scrabble with the family or Chutes and Ladders with the grandchildren. I am currently learning Mahjong. It’s a board game without a board.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met and talked with?
Joseph Stiglitz, Nobel Prize for Economy 2001. Full disclosure. Joe is my sister-in-law’s brother. I cannot claim the gene pool. Joe and his wife Anya are gracious and wonderful, but I will admit to being a bit star struck. At a family gathering, he sat with me and asked about my writing, when my next book was being released, and he asked with interest not as a conversation filler. He found it mind boggling that I self-published several of my books.
On the writing side, I had real fan-girl moments when I met Diana Gabaldon, before Outlander was on television. We didn’t talk for long, but she gave me words of advice. I had just read Tasha Alexander’s first book in Lady Emily Mysteries. I was the conference chair that year for the New Jersey Romance Writer’s and had to invite speakers. I loved her book so much, I contacted her and she attended. It was great.
If someone came up to you and said, “Hey, do that thing you do!” what thing would pop into your head first?
Make a brisket.
How do you select the names of your characters?
I start with names I like and many times, most times actually, as the story develops, their name changes.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I do read my reviews. The good and the bad ones. When my first book was published I read the reviews excited that someone actually read my book, Knight of Runes. One review threw me for a loop. It wasn’t about the story. I could understand not pleasing every reader, but this review was a personal attack.
What was your hardest scene to write?
I was writing the second book, Knight of Rapture, in my Druid Knight series. This is a time travel romance. In this story, the heroine has been tricked to go back to her time in the 20th century. The love of her life, our hero has to go find a way from the 17th century into the 20th century to save her. He finds her and tells her he will never leave her. The villain has been devious. If our hero stays in the 20th century, his estate will vanish and so will the heroine. The only way to save her is to return to the 17th century. But she cannot return.
I cried when Arik realized that with all his magic there was nothing he could do. He had to leave her. I cried when I wrote that scene and I cried when he actually left her. I cheered because she was made of stronger stuff and found a way to follow him. I still cry when I reread those scenes.
Ruth, this has been a great interview and so interesting. I do have one more favor, would you leave us a peek at your book and where to find out more about it and you? [image error] The Lady and Her Quill
Her mind kept telling her to stop loving him, but her heart couldn’t let him go.
Heat Rating PG
Renowned author Lady Alicia Hartley has lost her muse after a bad review. She blames it all on the author JC Melrose. A chance encounter with a handsome, witty Justin Caulfield has her heart racing, and her muse seemingly back. Is he her savior or her worst nightmare?
He didn’t see the turbulent ocean. He was too busy dealing with a different tempest.
The recently retired Captain Justin Caulfield is facing his own demons. As gifted author JC Melrose, his stories honor men who died at the hand of one man. His only focus is to avenge their deaths, that is, until he meets and falls in love with Lady Alicia.
The two authors take on a writing challenge based on a story of stolen gold taken from the newspaper headlines all to determine the better writer. While researching the story, Lady Alicia is captured by the thieves’ ringleader. Can Lady Alicia turn this mystery into an award-winning story? Can Justin save his real-life heroine? Can they both overcome their own challenges for a happily ever after?
Amazon KU
Reviews for The Lady and Her Quill
5 Stars – Goodreads – Petula – Very easy to get involved, excitement and adventure
4 Stars – Goodreads – C. Baker – Good Read
4 Stars – Goodreads – E’s Reading Corner – Entertaining first in new series
4 Stars – Goodreads – M. Whitworth – Very much enjoyed
Author Biography
RUTH A. CASIE is a USA Today bestselling author of historical swashbuckling action-adventures and contemporary romance with enough action to keep you turning pages and have earned her several coveted Crowned Heart Awards. She currently has three historical series, The Druid Knight, The Stelton Legacy, and her new Regency series, The Ladies of Sommer-by-the-Sea. She also has a contemporary romantic suspense series, Havenport Romance. Her stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. She lives in New Jersey with her hero, three empty bedrooms and a growing number of incomplete counted cross-stitch projects. Before she found her voice, she was a speech therapist (pun intended), client liaison for a corrugated manufacturer, and vice president at an international bank where she was a product/ marketing manager, but her favorite job is the one she’s doing now—writing romance. She hopes her stories become your favorite adventures.
Social Media Links:
Website: https://ruthacasie.com/
Ruth’s Newsletter Signup: http://ruthacasie.com/contact.html#newsletter http://bit.ly/RuthsNewsletterSignUp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthacasie/
Facebook private reader’s page, Casie Café: https://www.facebook.com/groups/963711677128537/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/RuthACasie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RuthACasie
Email: mailto:ruth@ruthacasie.com
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ruth-a-casie
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/ruthacasie
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4792909.Ruth_A_Casie
Personal Blog: http://www.ruthacasie.blogspot.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ruth-seitelman/6/6b7/964
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ruthacasie/
YouTube: https://bit.ly/YouTube-RuthACasie
AllAuthor: http://ruthacasie.allauthor.com
Hi, Ruth. Thank you for joining me today at the fire. Let's get right to it. Who you are other than your bio?I am the proud mother of three wonderful children. I have written that sentence at least three times. Children. They are all have children of their own. Our older daughter is a pre-k teacher who did an awesome job with remoting teaching. She has a daughter who is 16 and a son 13. Our younger daughter has just started her own cottage baking cookie business. She made cookies for Anna St. Claire and I with our signature and book covers for the reader’s event we went to Romancing the Gold Coast. She and her husband have a daughter who is 4. Our son is the youngest is a cyber security engineer and if I knew what he did he’d have to kill me. His ring on my phone is Secret Agent Man. He and his wife have a new baby who turned 3 months last week.
So you have a full house at times. I wish I had someone to make special cookies for me. Sigh, no that wouldn't work. I'd eat them. So hold the cookies and tell me, what interests besides writing do you enjoy?
I am working on a new Regency series, so a lot of my recent reading is research driven. Today it was Napoleon’s escape from Elba Island. I enjoy doing count-cross stitch, I’ve started a new project for the upcoming holiday. A gift for the new baby.
I am also taking a class on paper craft. It’s always difficult to find just the right ‘thing’ to give away at a conference or in a giveaway. In this class we are learning to make projects that are useable, pretty, and can be branded.
I'm no crafty, but making paper crafts sounds interesting. Who is your network or support system?
This is tough question. There are so many people who have and still do contribute to my career. My first critique partners Emma Kaye, Nicole S. Patrick, and Lita Harris. The writing groups I belong to New Jersey Romance Writers, Hudson Valley Romance Writers, Washington Romance Writers DC, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and Regency Fiction Writers (aka Beau Monde)
My publishing twin, Julie Rowe. Our first novels were published by Carina Press and were released on the same day. We have stayed very close friends. Eliza Knight who was my mentor. Kathryn LeVeque my editor and role model.
There are my readers, librarians, friends, and family. I don’t think anyone does it alone.
Wow that's an impressive list and you're right, I couldn't imagine doing this alone. Okay, Jersey Girl, tell us about your neighborhood? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
I live in Teaneck, a northern New Jersey town about five miles outside of New York City. We are a town of roughly 40K people. The township was created in 1895, but the first buildings date back to 1704. Our area was prominent during the Revolutionary War with George Washington and his troops passing through Teaneck on their hasty retreat from the British.
Cedar Lane is our main street in town and the crowning shop is Bischoff’s Confectionery. It is an old-fashioned ice cream soda fountain experience complete with red leather spinning stools. I LOVE the cherry vanilla ice cream.
Bischoff's sounds wonderful. I love treasures we can find close to home. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
While I have been to Zoom conference this past October I went to my first in person event in 18 months, Romancing the Gold Coast in Glen Cove Long Island. This was a two-day reader’s event with games and crafts, an elegant tea and delicious ball. Many of us were in costumes which made the event even more special. I met fans I only knew by name and saw authors and librarians I hadn’t seen in a long time.
Those virtual events were great, but there's nothing like meeting and greeting in person. I mentioned treasures above, do you have a particular object like a piece of jewelry or a keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you?
I have a pin that is very special to me. My grandmother gave it to me when I graduated from college. I had never seen it before. It’s a beautiful diamond and platinum antique pin. After all these years of not having anyplace to where it, I finally found the event and dress to wear it, on the Regency costume I wore to the Romancing the Gold Coast reader’s event this last October.
That sounds lovely. I have my mom's sweet sixteen ring that I'm going to hand down to my granddaughter. What is your favorite mug or teacup if neither T-shirt with graphic or Meme.
My most favorite mug is the one that says, Nana. It’s just the right size and it keeps my coffee hot.
I bet drinking from it reminds you at every sip of those beautiful grands. What's you favorite childhood book? Or writing that inspired you to become an author.
My favorite childhood author was Walter Farley and his Black Stallion series. I had read Nancy Drew. I didn’t really like the Hardy Boys. But there was something about this series that hooked me. It a triumphant tale of a boy and a wild horse. Alec is on ship and the stallion is being transported. There is a storm at sea. Alec saves the horse. They both make it to a deserted island where they have adventures and are eventually rescued.
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Easy answer… Cherry vanilla ice cream from Bischoff’s
Worst household chore?
The worst household chore ever is the laundry for one simple reason. I cannot reach the bottom of the washer to remove the clothes. Therefore, (*smiley face*) my husband does the wash.
If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why?
I would love to travel to London in the Regency era about 1825. I am currently writing a Regency romance and I am immersed in the era down to the clothes.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
I would take unlimited international first-class tickets and travel, travel, travel. I want to see places I write about again and again
Do you play board games? What games do you like?
Sometimes I play Scrabble with the family or Chutes and Ladders with the grandchildren. I am currently learning Mahjong. It’s a board game without a board.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met and talked with?
Joseph Stiglitz, Nobel Prize for Economy 2001. Full disclosure. Joe is my sister-in-law’s brother. I cannot claim the gene pool. Joe and his wife Anya are gracious and wonderful, but I will admit to being a bit star struck. At a family gathering, he sat with me and asked about my writing, when my next book was being released, and he asked with interest not as a conversation filler. He found it mind boggling that I self-published several of my books.
On the writing side, I had real fan-girl moments when I met Diana Gabaldon, before Outlander was on television. We didn’t talk for long, but she gave me words of advice. I had just read Tasha Alexander’s first book in Lady Emily Mysteries. I was the conference chair that year for the New Jersey Romance Writer’s and had to invite speakers. I loved her book so much, I contacted her and she attended. It was great.
If someone came up to you and said, “Hey, do that thing you do!” what thing would pop into your head first?
Make a brisket.
How do you select the names of your characters?
I start with names I like and many times, most times actually, as the story develops, their name changes.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I do read my reviews. The good and the bad ones. When my first book was published I read the reviews excited that someone actually read my book, Knight of Runes. One review threw me for a loop. It wasn’t about the story. I could understand not pleasing every reader, but this review was a personal attack.
What was your hardest scene to write?
I was writing the second book, Knight of Rapture, in my Druid Knight series. This is a time travel romance. In this story, the heroine has been tricked to go back to her time in the 20th century. The love of her life, our hero has to go find a way from the 17th century into the 20th century to save her. He finds her and tells her he will never leave her. The villain has been devious. If our hero stays in the 20th century, his estate will vanish and so will the heroine. The only way to save her is to return to the 17th century. But she cannot return.
I cried when Arik realized that with all his magic there was nothing he could do. He had to leave her. I cried when I wrote that scene and I cried when he actually left her. I cheered because she was made of stronger stuff and found a way to follow him. I still cry when I reread those scenes.
Ruth, this has been a great interview and so interesting. I do have one more favor, would you leave us a peek at your book and where to find out more about it and you? [image error] The Lady and Her Quill
Her mind kept telling her to stop loving him, but her heart couldn’t let him go.
Heat Rating PG
Renowned author Lady Alicia Hartley has lost her muse after a bad review. She blames it all on the author JC Melrose. A chance encounter with a handsome, witty Justin Caulfield has her heart racing, and her muse seemingly back. Is he her savior or her worst nightmare?
He didn’t see the turbulent ocean. He was too busy dealing with a different tempest.
The recently retired Captain Justin Caulfield is facing his own demons. As gifted author JC Melrose, his stories honor men who died at the hand of one man. His only focus is to avenge their deaths, that is, until he meets and falls in love with Lady Alicia.
The two authors take on a writing challenge based on a story of stolen gold taken from the newspaper headlines all to determine the better writer. While researching the story, Lady Alicia is captured by the thieves’ ringleader. Can Lady Alicia turn this mystery into an award-winning story? Can Justin save his real-life heroine? Can they both overcome their own challenges for a happily ever after?
Amazon KU
Reviews for The Lady and Her Quill
5 Stars – Goodreads – Petula – Very easy to get involved, excitement and adventure
4 Stars – Goodreads – C. Baker – Good Read
4 Stars – Goodreads – E’s Reading Corner – Entertaining first in new series
4 Stars – Goodreads – M. Whitworth – Very much enjoyed
Author Biography
RUTH A. CASIE is a USA Today bestselling author of historical swashbuckling action-adventures and contemporary romance with enough action to keep you turning pages and have earned her several coveted Crowned Heart Awards. She currently has three historical series, The Druid Knight, The Stelton Legacy, and her new Regency series, The Ladies of Sommer-by-the-Sea. She also has a contemporary romantic suspense series, Havenport Romance. Her stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. She lives in New Jersey with her hero, three empty bedrooms and a growing number of incomplete counted cross-stitch projects. Before she found her voice, she was a speech therapist (pun intended), client liaison for a corrugated manufacturer, and vice president at an international bank where she was a product/ marketing manager, but her favorite job is the one she’s doing now—writing romance. She hopes her stories become your favorite adventures.
Social Media Links:
Website: https://ruthacasie.com/
Ruth’s Newsletter Signup: http://ruthacasie.com/contact.html#newsletter http://bit.ly/RuthsNewsletterSignUp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthacasie/
Facebook private reader’s page, Casie Café: https://www.facebook.com/groups/963711677128537/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/RuthACasie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RuthACasie
Email: mailto:ruth@ruthacasie.com
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ruth-a-casie
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/ruthacasie
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4792909.Ruth_A_Casie
Personal Blog: http://www.ruthacasie.blogspot.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ruth-seitelman/6/6b7/964
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ruthacasie/
YouTube: https://bit.ly/YouTube-RuthACasie
AllAuthor: http://ruthacasie.allauthor.com
November 13, 2021
Around The Fire Welcomes Maria Imbalzano.
Happy Saturday! Thank you for joining us today at the fire. We've had a few gorgeous days here in New Jersey and Pete, Hali and I have been hiking in the woods near our house. We even lit the chiminea and spent the evening reading around it. Is it just me or is everyone thinking it 10pm when its only 6? I hope you enjoy learning about today's guest who's also a "Jersey Girl". 
Hi Maria! I'm so glad you're with us today. Let's get right to it. I have a bio, you have a bio, we all have a bio. But who you are other than your bio?
I’m the mother of two incredibly strong and independent daughters who love spending time with my husband and me, and we love spending time with them. I’m the daughter of a strong and independent 94 year old mother, who is my biggest cheerleader. I talk to her everyday and see her at least once a week. We do crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles together. I guess you could say I’m a family person. I’m also a lover of beaches, travel, dancing, music and lifelong learning.
That sounds wonderful. We do puzzles too. I like crossword-Pete sudoku. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? Tell us about what you read too.
I’ve loved reading since I was 5 and that hasn’t changed one bit. I am usually reading 2-3 books at a time, which I wouldn’t recommend, but I can’t help myself. There is always the book club book, which is generally something I wouldn’t have chosen myself, but I’m always glad I read it. They may be historical fiction, suspense, women’s fiction – usually something that’s been on someone’s list (Oprah, Jenna, NY Times). I also read romance (contemporary, historical, and sometimes erotica). In addition to reading, I like to exercise (Jazzercise because it’s dance-y or walking while listening to music).
Who is your network or support system? Those who contribute to your writing career. My husband is an incredible supporter of my writing. He’s only read a few of my books, but has been very positive in his comments about them. When other people ask if he’s read my books, he usually says that he doesn’t want to know what he should be doing and isn’t. For Christmas last year, he printed out all of my book covers and framed them. They are now hanging in our library and it makes me smile every time I see them. My mother is like my agent, but in an embarrassing way. Everywhere she goes (doctors, grocery store, Macy’s, church meetings) she hands out my bookmarks and tells people how wonderful my stories are (she has told me that the sex in them isn’t necessary though). I do love that she’s a huge promoter as long as I’m not with her.
He's so sweet. Your mom sounds amazing too. Can you tell us who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
Judith McNaught, Kristan Hannah, Emily Giffen, Rachel Gibson, Kristan Higgins.
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
Absolutely none.
Oh I bet you have some party trick you can pull out. But alas we'll keep wondering. What's your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
I live in a small town in central NJ- a typical suburb in a pleasant neighborhood. Since I hate to cook, my husband and I go out to eat frequently. Our local restaurants here in Lawrenceville and the surrounding area are the best. Chambers Walk, Metro Grill, Boro, Enzo’s, TJ’s, Yardley Inn. We’ve gotten to know the owners/managers of all of these restaurants as well as the wait staff, and everyone is friendly and welcoming. It’s like going to a friend’s place for dinner.
I love local restaurants where you feel like your in an episode of Cheers. Unfortunately two of our favorites are closed. Have you had any adventures lately? We just got back from a two week vacation—our first after staying put for the last year and a half. We went back to Key West (where we’ve gone every year for the past 35 years) for a week. It’s such a wild and crazy town. It was Fantasy Fest week and the college kid comes out in every adult there. Not us of course. People generally enjoy many cocktails throughout the day and night while listening to music at various open air bars. Halloween costumes are the norm, but if you don’t want to wear a costume, there are dozens of places to have your body painted sans clothes. The weather is warm, the spirit is lively, and it’s great fun – for a week. After that, we headed to Delray Beach to visit friends, then on to St. Augustine since we had never been there before. Seeing new places, whether in the US or abroad is what I want to do going forward. Next trip – Alaska.
The Keys are on my bucket list. And you're going to adore Alaska. If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? Milk chocolate-any time, all the time.
Hah, as Charles Schultz said, "All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt". Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Unlimited international first-class tickets. There are so many places I want to fly to and being able to enjoy the flight because of a more comfortable seat and improved food would just make the whole experience that much better.
Did you ever win something? What? I’m very lucky in general. I once won a Mercedes SUV through a Big Brothers Big Sisters raffle. I also won a diamond necklace at a fundraiser.
Wowzah! Next time I buy a lottery ticket I'll pick you up first to go with me. What was your first job? I was the candy girl at a small local movie theater when I was 15. I loved it because all my friends worked there too. My job was my social life.
What subjects should be taught in school, but aren’t?
Civility
Oh, for the days of Miss Manners. Do you do research before starting a book?
I don’t spend any time researching before beginning a book. I create an in-depth outline (more like a blueprint) of the entire story and only research when I’m writing a scene that requires it.
Reviews are an author's lifeblood. Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I absolutely read my book reviews. I smile while reading the good ones and talk back to the reviewer who wrote a bad one – explaining what they missed.
Maria, thank you again for spending time with us. Before you leave can you share a bit about your newest book and where we can find out more about you and it?
Red Velvet Crinkles And Christmas Sprinkles
By
Maria Imbalzano
Competitive, work-obsessed Bella Simonetti has just been fired from her high-paying job at a Manhattan law firm. At an all-time low, she returns home and helps her parents at their small-town gift shop, but the business is failing and may not make it past the Christmas holidays.
Successful landscape architect Dean Jackson is like a son to Bella's parents. But he’s a persistent annoyance to her—he seems to have forgotten his unforgivable blunder thirteen years earlier.
When Bella transforms her parents’ gift shop into a cookie cottage, Dean's generosity and magnetic smile are hard to resist, and those feelings of unrequited adolescent love come rushing back. But can Bella let go of the past and accept Dean for the man he is today?
****Review from N.N. Light’s Book Heaven 5 stars***
Red Velvet Crinkles is a heartwarming enemies-to-lovers holiday romance I devoured in one sitting. Maria Imbalzano takes a few tropes, whips them until they're frothy, and then adds sugar to make the ending on Christmas sweet. The plot moves at a great pace with a close-knit cast of characters. I loved the small town, Bella's parents, and so much more. We get both Bella's and Dean's POV which filled a lot of holes in the story. Dean teased her in high school to keep his distance. His feelings scared him back then and now he has to make amends. There are some meaningful messages in this story, even though it's short. Sometimes what you've been looking for is right in front of you. The romance was so good and honestly written. I enjoyed the push and pull between Bella and her parents. The dialogue is humorous at times with plenty of snark. Red Velvet Crinkles is a delightful holiday romance and one I highly recommend!
Get your copy today
https://books2read.com/u/38d09r
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09FYVGDWR
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles-maria-imbalzano/1140147130?ean=2940162321644
https://books.apple.com/us/book/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles/id1585527197
https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Maria%20Imbalzano&c=books
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles
More about the author.
Maria Imbalzano is a retired matrimonial lawyer who now writes full time. Instead of drafting motions, legal memoranda, and briefs, although fascinating, she now spends her days creating memorable characters and taking them on their emotional journeys through her contemporary romance novels.
Her novel, “Unchained Memories,” won the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers’ Award and the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award. “Sworn to Forget,” the first of the four-book Sworn Sisters Series was a finalist for the illustrious RONE award as well as the Book Buyers Best Award. Her novellas, “The Blueberry Swirl Waltz” and “A Song For Another Day” each came in first in their category in the National Excellence in Story Telling contest and finaled in the Colorado Romance Writers Beverly contest.
Visit Maria at
http://mariaimbalzano.com
Or follow on
https://www.facebook.com/mariaimbalzanoauthor
http://www.twitter.com/mariaimbalzano
@mariaimbalzano
Mariaimbalzano_author
http://www.mariaimbalzano.com/category/blog/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7276749.Maria_Imbalzano
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maria-imbalzano
https://mariaimbalzano.com/sign-up-for-my-newsletter/
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00FG9RI5K
Hi Maria! I'm so glad you're with us today. Let's get right to it. I have a bio, you have a bio, we all have a bio. But who you are other than your bio?
I’m the mother of two incredibly strong and independent daughters who love spending time with my husband and me, and we love spending time with them. I’m the daughter of a strong and independent 94 year old mother, who is my biggest cheerleader. I talk to her everyday and see her at least once a week. We do crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles together. I guess you could say I’m a family person. I’m also a lover of beaches, travel, dancing, music and lifelong learning.
That sounds wonderful. We do puzzles too. I like crossword-Pete sudoku. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? Tell us about what you read too.
I’ve loved reading since I was 5 and that hasn’t changed one bit. I am usually reading 2-3 books at a time, which I wouldn’t recommend, but I can’t help myself. There is always the book club book, which is generally something I wouldn’t have chosen myself, but I’m always glad I read it. They may be historical fiction, suspense, women’s fiction – usually something that’s been on someone’s list (Oprah, Jenna, NY Times). I also read romance (contemporary, historical, and sometimes erotica). In addition to reading, I like to exercise (Jazzercise because it’s dance-y or walking while listening to music).
Who is your network or support system? Those who contribute to your writing career. My husband is an incredible supporter of my writing. He’s only read a few of my books, but has been very positive in his comments about them. When other people ask if he’s read my books, he usually says that he doesn’t want to know what he should be doing and isn’t. For Christmas last year, he printed out all of my book covers and framed them. They are now hanging in our library and it makes me smile every time I see them. My mother is like my agent, but in an embarrassing way. Everywhere she goes (doctors, grocery store, Macy’s, church meetings) she hands out my bookmarks and tells people how wonderful my stories are (she has told me that the sex in them isn’t necessary though). I do love that she’s a huge promoter as long as I’m not with her.
He's so sweet. Your mom sounds amazing too. Can you tell us who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
Judith McNaught, Kristan Hannah, Emily Giffen, Rachel Gibson, Kristan Higgins.
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
Absolutely none.
Oh I bet you have some party trick you can pull out. But alas we'll keep wondering. What's your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
I live in a small town in central NJ- a typical suburb in a pleasant neighborhood. Since I hate to cook, my husband and I go out to eat frequently. Our local restaurants here in Lawrenceville and the surrounding area are the best. Chambers Walk, Metro Grill, Boro, Enzo’s, TJ’s, Yardley Inn. We’ve gotten to know the owners/managers of all of these restaurants as well as the wait staff, and everyone is friendly and welcoming. It’s like going to a friend’s place for dinner.
I love local restaurants where you feel like your in an episode of Cheers. Unfortunately two of our favorites are closed. Have you had any adventures lately? We just got back from a two week vacation—our first after staying put for the last year and a half. We went back to Key West (where we’ve gone every year for the past 35 years) for a week. It’s such a wild and crazy town. It was Fantasy Fest week and the college kid comes out in every adult there. Not us of course. People generally enjoy many cocktails throughout the day and night while listening to music at various open air bars. Halloween costumes are the norm, but if you don’t want to wear a costume, there are dozens of places to have your body painted sans clothes. The weather is warm, the spirit is lively, and it’s great fun – for a week. After that, we headed to Delray Beach to visit friends, then on to St. Augustine since we had never been there before. Seeing new places, whether in the US or abroad is what I want to do going forward. Next trip – Alaska.
The Keys are on my bucket list. And you're going to adore Alaska. If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? Milk chocolate-any time, all the time.
Hah, as Charles Schultz said, "All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt". Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Unlimited international first-class tickets. There are so many places I want to fly to and being able to enjoy the flight because of a more comfortable seat and improved food would just make the whole experience that much better.
Did you ever win something? What? I’m very lucky in general. I once won a Mercedes SUV through a Big Brothers Big Sisters raffle. I also won a diamond necklace at a fundraiser.
Wowzah! Next time I buy a lottery ticket I'll pick you up first to go with me. What was your first job? I was the candy girl at a small local movie theater when I was 15. I loved it because all my friends worked there too. My job was my social life.
What subjects should be taught in school, but aren’t?
Civility
Oh, for the days of Miss Manners. Do you do research before starting a book?
I don’t spend any time researching before beginning a book. I create an in-depth outline (more like a blueprint) of the entire story and only research when I’m writing a scene that requires it.
Reviews are an author's lifeblood. Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I absolutely read my book reviews. I smile while reading the good ones and talk back to the reviewer who wrote a bad one – explaining what they missed.
Maria, thank you again for spending time with us. Before you leave can you share a bit about your newest book and where we can find out more about you and it?
Red Velvet Crinkles And Christmas SprinklesBy
Maria Imbalzano
Competitive, work-obsessed Bella Simonetti has just been fired from her high-paying job at a Manhattan law firm. At an all-time low, she returns home and helps her parents at their small-town gift shop, but the business is failing and may not make it past the Christmas holidays.
Successful landscape architect Dean Jackson is like a son to Bella's parents. But he’s a persistent annoyance to her—he seems to have forgotten his unforgivable blunder thirteen years earlier.
When Bella transforms her parents’ gift shop into a cookie cottage, Dean's generosity and magnetic smile are hard to resist, and those feelings of unrequited adolescent love come rushing back. But can Bella let go of the past and accept Dean for the man he is today?
****Review from N.N. Light’s Book Heaven 5 stars***
Red Velvet Crinkles is a heartwarming enemies-to-lovers holiday romance I devoured in one sitting. Maria Imbalzano takes a few tropes, whips them until they're frothy, and then adds sugar to make the ending on Christmas sweet. The plot moves at a great pace with a close-knit cast of characters. I loved the small town, Bella's parents, and so much more. We get both Bella's and Dean's POV which filled a lot of holes in the story. Dean teased her in high school to keep his distance. His feelings scared him back then and now he has to make amends. There are some meaningful messages in this story, even though it's short. Sometimes what you've been looking for is right in front of you. The romance was so good and honestly written. I enjoyed the push and pull between Bella and her parents. The dialogue is humorous at times with plenty of snark. Red Velvet Crinkles is a delightful holiday romance and one I highly recommend!
Get your copy today
https://books2read.com/u/38d09r
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09FYVGDWR
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles-maria-imbalzano/1140147130?ean=2940162321644
https://books.apple.com/us/book/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles/id1585527197
https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Maria%20Imbalzano&c=books
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/red-velvet-crinkles-and-christmas-sprinkles
More about the author.
Maria Imbalzano is a retired matrimonial lawyer who now writes full time. Instead of drafting motions, legal memoranda, and briefs, although fascinating, she now spends her days creating memorable characters and taking them on their emotional journeys through her contemporary romance novels.
Her novel, “Unchained Memories,” won the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers’ Award and the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award. “Sworn to Forget,” the first of the four-book Sworn Sisters Series was a finalist for the illustrious RONE award as well as the Book Buyers Best Award. Her novellas, “The Blueberry Swirl Waltz” and “A Song For Another Day” each came in first in their category in the National Excellence in Story Telling contest and finaled in the Colorado Romance Writers Beverly contest.
Visit Maria at
http://mariaimbalzano.com
Or follow on
https://www.facebook.com/mariaimbalzanoauthor
http://www.twitter.com/mariaimbalzano
@mariaimbalzano
Mariaimbalzano_author
http://www.mariaimbalzano.com/category/blog/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7276749.Maria_Imbalzano
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maria-imbalzano
https://mariaimbalzano.com/sign-up-for-my-newsletter/
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00FG9RI5K
November 12, 2021
Happy Fall Y'all!
Come on. November's not a bad month. There's so much to be thankful for including all my new email pen pals and especially National No Diet Day, otherwise known as Thanksgiving here in the US. So what else is going on? Count them with meThings looked good on the 11th. It was National Sundae Day. And I encourage you to a continuing celebration. Maybe with a Rainbow Sprinkles signature Salted Caramel Sundae.Today the 13th is World Kindness Day. Good one, rightOkay, get ready for the 15th. National cleanout your refrigerator day. One of my favorite comics was a Garfield he stood pressed against the fridge door and the caption was "No, mystery meat. Today the refrigerator, tomorrow the world." How many bottle of old condiments do you have?And don't forget the 18th. If you imbibe then maybe take advantage of The Great American Smokeout. I've been cigarette-free for 28 years.November 19th? National Play Monopoly Day. Who still has this iconic board game AND plays it? A couple of trivia notes about the eleventh monthThe full moon is called Beaver MoonThe gemstone is Topaz and symbolizes strength and honor.Chrysanthemums are the flower of the month and whether red, white or yellow reflect love. Can I ask a favor? Click here
www.goodreads.com/author/show/16344100.D_V_Stone
to add Rock House to Good Reads "Want to Read" and "Follow Author" There's no obligation but will give me a boost
Not a Goodreads person? How about Bookbub?
www.bookbub.com/profile/d-v-stone
If you're not familiar with either of these sites, you should check them out. No cost but you get personalized recommendations for books, see what your friends are reading, and book bargains.
We had a lovely time the past fall traveling and I'm already making reservations for next year. If you want to get a camp site these day you must plan in advance. Also we have two weddings to attend next fall. (Maybe three but I'm not spilling the beans until February. Sign up for my newsletter to get first notice.
mailchi.mp/3b289d8d7569/d-v-stones-peek-further-and-campfire-crew
It's going to be exciting!
Whoot! Whoot! Whoot! I finally signed my contract with Wild Rose Press Books. This makes my fourth agreement with them. Stay tuned for more information but here's the blurb.
Jordan Vasilakis is on the run, living under the assumed name of Madeline Cielo. After a disastrous marriage to a notorious Greek business tycoon, she’s rebuilding her life as a jazz singer.
Police officer Michael Machau is friends with the House family, who have welcomed him into their lives. But their family is in danger from a woman who has already injured them.
Jazz House, a modern throwback to jazz music’s heyday, brings together a dedicated police officer and a woman living a lie. Can lives be rebuilt after so much destruction?
I'm going to need an ARC team or Advance Reader Copy. What is that? If you enjoy reading and aren't afraid to leave an honest review then maybe this is for you. Send me an email if you are interested and I'll send you the details no obligation.
Help Wanted. Advanced Readers needed for reviews. No experience needed . A few sentences to paragraphs. Jazz House is moving along in the publishing process and a need a few readers to tell me what they like and what they don't. Click here for details. No cost. No obligation.
Book Review time
A Review
Pre-release copy via Netgalley.
I am a fan of Paranormal Romance, especially dragons. A large percent in this genre are steamy and use rough language. I gloss over these when reading, so my review will be based on the story, worldbuilding, and characters.
Fury of Destruction is a familiar world since I've read many of the previous books and looked forward to revisiting the Dragonfury world. One of the things that stood out to me from the beginning and carried throughout the story even more than the romance was the brotherhood.
Gage is the primary male lead. He and his two fellow metallic dragons have been damaged by the enemy who held and tortured them. (This is a previous story not detailed in this book) The relationship between them connected me to the main character more than any previous books. Gage is tough, no-nonsense, and a fierce warrior. But he is a warrior with heart. A huge heart. Not only do his friends count on him, but his leader respects him.
Samantha is the female lead. I adore her bright sarcastic wit, tender heart, and sheer courage. Sam has had a tough life, but she is an overcomer and someone you want to have a happy life. She rolls with the punches, and even when a scene overwhelms her, she recovers and keeps her humanity.
Worldbuilding and action are well done, never being too much or too little. The pacing keeps you rollicking along and often laughing out loud at the dialog between characters. The main characters get a satisfactory ending. So much room is left in this series, especially with the multiple antagonists.
Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy this book. I highly recommend Fury of Destruction. You can probably figure this out without reading the other books, but for the full richness of the Dragonfury world, start at the beginning and binge.
My TBR or TBL (listen)
I'm listening to Where the Crawdads Sing. Stay tuned and find out my thoughts on this bestseller. Have a wonderful November and Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate the day. I leave you with this-
I love to see the cottage smoke
Curl upwards through the trees,
The pigeons nestled round the cote
On November days like these…
John Clare – “Autumn”
www.goodreads.com/author/show/16344100.D_V_Stone
to add Rock House to Good Reads "Want to Read" and "Follow Author" There's no obligation but will give me a boost
Not a Goodreads person? How about Bookbub?
www.bookbub.com/profile/d-v-stone
If you're not familiar with either of these sites, you should check them out. No cost but you get personalized recommendations for books, see what your friends are reading, and book bargains.
We had a lovely time the past fall traveling and I'm already making reservations for next year. If you want to get a camp site these day you must plan in advance. Also we have two weddings to attend next fall. (Maybe three but I'm not spilling the beans until February. Sign up for my newsletter to get first notice.
mailchi.mp/3b289d8d7569/d-v-stones-peek-further-and-campfire-crew
It's going to be exciting!
Whoot! Whoot! Whoot! I finally signed my contract with Wild Rose Press Books. This makes my fourth agreement with them. Stay tuned for more information but here's the blurb.
Jordan Vasilakis is on the run, living under the assumed name of Madeline Cielo. After a disastrous marriage to a notorious Greek business tycoon, she’s rebuilding her life as a jazz singer.
Police officer Michael Machau is friends with the House family, who have welcomed him into their lives. But their family is in danger from a woman who has already injured them.
Jazz House, a modern throwback to jazz music’s heyday, brings together a dedicated police officer and a woman living a lie. Can lives be rebuilt after so much destruction?
I'm going to need an ARC team or Advance Reader Copy. What is that? If you enjoy reading and aren't afraid to leave an honest review then maybe this is for you. Send me an email if you are interested and I'll send you the details no obligation.
Help Wanted. Advanced Readers needed for reviews. No experience needed . A few sentences to paragraphs. Jazz House is moving along in the publishing process and a need a few readers to tell me what they like and what they don't. Click here for details. No cost. No obligation.
Book Review timeA Review
Pre-release copy via Netgalley.
I am a fan of Paranormal Romance, especially dragons. A large percent in this genre are steamy and use rough language. I gloss over these when reading, so my review will be based on the story, worldbuilding, and characters.
Fury of Destruction is a familiar world since I've read many of the previous books and looked forward to revisiting the Dragonfury world. One of the things that stood out to me from the beginning and carried throughout the story even more than the romance was the brotherhood.
Gage is the primary male lead. He and his two fellow metallic dragons have been damaged by the enemy who held and tortured them. (This is a previous story not detailed in this book) The relationship between them connected me to the main character more than any previous books. Gage is tough, no-nonsense, and a fierce warrior. But he is a warrior with heart. A huge heart. Not only do his friends count on him, but his leader respects him.
Samantha is the female lead. I adore her bright sarcastic wit, tender heart, and sheer courage. Sam has had a tough life, but she is an overcomer and someone you want to have a happy life. She rolls with the punches, and even when a scene overwhelms her, she recovers and keeps her humanity.
Worldbuilding and action are well done, never being too much or too little. The pacing keeps you rollicking along and often laughing out loud at the dialog between characters. The main characters get a satisfactory ending. So much room is left in this series, especially with the multiple antagonists.
Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy this book. I highly recommend Fury of Destruction. You can probably figure this out without reading the other books, but for the full richness of the Dragonfury world, start at the beginning and binge.
My TBR or TBL (listen)
I'm listening to Where the Crawdads Sing. Stay tuned and find out my thoughts on this bestseller. Have a wonderful November and Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate the day. I leave you with this-
I love to see the cottage smoke
Curl upwards through the trees,
The pigeons nestled round the cote
On November days like these…
John Clare – “Autumn”
November 8, 2021
Darlene Fredette is at the fire today.
It's never too cold for ice cream especially around the fire. Author Darlene Fredette is also bringing a fire fighter romance with her to warm us up. So pour yourself a hot beverage, or grab a bowl of ice cream and get to know today's guest. Let us know what's on your mind in the comments section and be part of the conversation. Welcome Darlene thank you for joining me at the fire. Let's dig in. 
Darlene who are you other than your bio? I’m a wife, mother, and dog mom.
What interests besides writing do you enjoy? I love walking along the beach to find rock and sea glass, which I use to create art projects. I could spend hours searching the beach too. Arts projects not so much.
Who is your network or support system that contribute to your writing? I have a beta group and I am part of a writing group of six authors who discuss writing through email and zoom chats.
Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? I have tons of Penny Jordan’s books, which inspired my love of reading and writing.
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent? I don’t think so, but my daughter might say otherwise, lol. Our children do like to find something to tease us about, don't they?
What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? I live in a bustling city. We love taking walks on the Dartmouth waterfront and then take the ferry across to walk around the Halifax waterfront. Oh you are from Canada, eh?
Have you had any adventures lately? Due to Covid, we haven’t travelled very far from home. However, this year we took our daughter to Peggy’s Cove which she had never been to. We enjoyed a great day. I'd love to visit the Light House at Peggy's Cove
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? Strawberry Shortcake! Yum!
Worst household chore? Sewing. Ugh, I agree.
If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why? I would go back in time to spend another day with my father. Oh, I'm sorry for your loss.
Do you play board games? We play lots of board and card games such as Clue, Scrabble, Monopoly, UNO, Yahtzee and more! Playing UNO with my grandkids is a hoot. I just bought Exploding Kittens. Don't worry. No actual explosions or kittens.
How do you select the names of your characters? I choose character names from names that I like, but some character names have been chosen from actors or actresses in movies or television shows.
Darlene, thanks again for spending time at the fire with me. Before you leave can you give us a peek at Cherry Red?
Cherry Red
One Scoop or Two
by
Darlene Fredette
She creates ice cream. He radiates heat.
This summer, ice cream entrepreneur Carly Redd's only focus is expanding her business—until she's coerced into attending her ex's engagement party. Showing up without a date is unthinkable. She reluctantly agrees to be escorted by her brother’s co-worker, although doing so breaks her rule of not dating firefighters.
The daughter of the town’s fire chief should wear a Do Not Touch sign, but firefighter Noah Harding's interest blazed the moment he saw Carly. Agreeing to be her fake boyfriend is a no-brainer, but convincing Carly to trust him with her heart is harder than extinguishing a fire.
Overstepping the platonic-only rule is as dangerous as fire and ice swirling into a tempting combustion.
A look inside
“This might seem like a strange question, especially since we’ve just met, but would you be interested in going out for a coffee? Or an ice cream?” Noah rested an arm on the bar.
Carly glanced down at her jeans and black T-shirt embroidered with the company name and logo…a cluster of red cherries. In a room full of women all dolled up in fancy—and some a bit scanty—dresses, why would this incredibly handsome man ask her on a date? “I appreciate the offer, but I’m not interested…”
Noah raised a brow. “I know you like ice cream, so is it the coffee, or me?”
“What? No. I mean, yes.” She took a second to collect her scrambled thoughts. “I like coffee. I just don’t hang out with firefighters.” Not that he was a real firefighter. Did impersonators count in her rules of men to avoid? She never dated a stripper, but she wasn’t sure she could have a relationship with a guy who was paid to take off his clothes and have other women fawn over him. Not that the guy asked her on a date…just a simple coffee. His frown made her feel badly. “I’m sorry. It’s nothing personal.”
“Burnt in the past? No pun intended.” He smiled.
She couldn’t help but smile back. “Something like that.”
About Darlene Fredette
Darlene resides on the Atlantic Coast of Canada where the summers are too short, and the winters are too long. An avid reader since childhood, Darlene loved to develop the many stories coming to life in her head. She writes contemporary romances with a focus on plot-driven page-turners. When not working on her next book, she can be found with her husband, her daughter, and her yellow Labrador. Darlene’s favourite pastime is taking summer daytrips to the Valley to soak in the small-town feel.
Universal Purchase Links:
http://darlenefredette.blogspot.com/2021/04/my-books-purchase-links.html
https://books2read.com/u/bPQznl
Author Web Site: http://darlenefredette.blogspot.com/
Blog: http://findingthewritewords.blogspot.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Darlene-Fredette/e/B005NAF660/
The Wild Rose Press Author Page: https://www.thewildrosepress.com/authors/darlene-fredette
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darlenefredette_author/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarleneLF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarleneLFGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/DarleneLFAnthology (Two Stories): https://www.thewildrosepress.com/product/a-scoop-of-romance
Books by Darlene Fredette
Law of Attraction
Twist of Faith
Hershey’s Choice
His Candy Christmas (Redford Falls Story 1)
Kissed By Winter (Redford Falls Story 2)
Under The Apple Blossoms (Redford Falls Story 3)
A Recipe For Forever (Redford Falls Story 4)
Cherry Red
Finding Home Again (Redford Falls Story 5) February 07, 2022
Reviews
5 Stars – Goodreads H. Roman - Great story, fun romance, well-developed characters make this book a joy to read.
5 Stars - Goodreads G. Rifkin - Fun and tasty read. A happy little escape.
5 Stars – Goodreads Wild Women Reviews - Interesting, relatable characters with crisp, snappy dialogue. Cherry Red deserves a 6.
Darlene who are you other than your bio? I’m a wife, mother, and dog mom.
What interests besides writing do you enjoy? I love walking along the beach to find rock and sea glass, which I use to create art projects. I could spend hours searching the beach too. Arts projects not so much.
Who is your network or support system that contribute to your writing? I have a beta group and I am part of a writing group of six authors who discuss writing through email and zoom chats.
Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? I have tons of Penny Jordan’s books, which inspired my love of reading and writing.
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent? I don’t think so, but my daughter might say otherwise, lol. Our children do like to find something to tease us about, don't they?
What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special? I live in a bustling city. We love taking walks on the Dartmouth waterfront and then take the ferry across to walk around the Halifax waterfront. Oh you are from Canada, eh?
Have you had any adventures lately? Due to Covid, we haven’t travelled very far from home. However, this year we took our daughter to Peggy’s Cove which she had never been to. We enjoyed a great day. I'd love to visit the Light House at Peggy's Cove
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? Strawberry Shortcake! Yum!
Worst household chore? Sewing. Ugh, I agree.
If you could time travel, where would you go and when? Why? I would go back in time to spend another day with my father. Oh, I'm sorry for your loss.
Do you play board games? We play lots of board and card games such as Clue, Scrabble, Monopoly, UNO, Yahtzee and more! Playing UNO with my grandkids is a hoot. I just bought Exploding Kittens. Don't worry. No actual explosions or kittens.
How do you select the names of your characters? I choose character names from names that I like, but some character names have been chosen from actors or actresses in movies or television shows.
Darlene, thanks again for spending time at the fire with me. Before you leave can you give us a peek at Cherry Red?
Cherry Red One Scoop or Two
by
Darlene Fredette
She creates ice cream. He radiates heat.
This summer, ice cream entrepreneur Carly Redd's only focus is expanding her business—until she's coerced into attending her ex's engagement party. Showing up without a date is unthinkable. She reluctantly agrees to be escorted by her brother’s co-worker, although doing so breaks her rule of not dating firefighters.
The daughter of the town’s fire chief should wear a Do Not Touch sign, but firefighter Noah Harding's interest blazed the moment he saw Carly. Agreeing to be her fake boyfriend is a no-brainer, but convincing Carly to trust him with her heart is harder than extinguishing a fire.
Overstepping the platonic-only rule is as dangerous as fire and ice swirling into a tempting combustion.
A look inside
“This might seem like a strange question, especially since we’ve just met, but would you be interested in going out for a coffee? Or an ice cream?” Noah rested an arm on the bar.
Carly glanced down at her jeans and black T-shirt embroidered with the company name and logo…a cluster of red cherries. In a room full of women all dolled up in fancy—and some a bit scanty—dresses, why would this incredibly handsome man ask her on a date? “I appreciate the offer, but I’m not interested…”
Noah raised a brow. “I know you like ice cream, so is it the coffee, or me?”
“What? No. I mean, yes.” She took a second to collect her scrambled thoughts. “I like coffee. I just don’t hang out with firefighters.” Not that he was a real firefighter. Did impersonators count in her rules of men to avoid? She never dated a stripper, but she wasn’t sure she could have a relationship with a guy who was paid to take off his clothes and have other women fawn over him. Not that the guy asked her on a date…just a simple coffee. His frown made her feel badly. “I’m sorry. It’s nothing personal.”
“Burnt in the past? No pun intended.” He smiled.
She couldn’t help but smile back. “Something like that.”
About Darlene Fredette
Darlene resides on the Atlantic Coast of Canada where the summers are too short, and the winters are too long. An avid reader since childhood, Darlene loved to develop the many stories coming to life in her head. She writes contemporary romances with a focus on plot-driven page-turners. When not working on her next book, she can be found with her husband, her daughter, and her yellow Labrador. Darlene’s favourite pastime is taking summer daytrips to the Valley to soak in the small-town feel.
Universal Purchase Links:
http://darlenefredette.blogspot.com/2021/04/my-books-purchase-links.html
https://books2read.com/u/bPQznl
Author Web Site: http://darlenefredette.blogspot.com/
Blog: http://findingthewritewords.blogspot.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Darlene-Fredette/e/B005NAF660/
The Wild Rose Press Author Page: https://www.thewildrosepress.com/authors/darlene-fredette
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darlenefredette_author/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarleneLF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarleneLFGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/DarleneLFAnthology (Two Stories): https://www.thewildrosepress.com/product/a-scoop-of-romance
Books by Darlene Fredette
Law of Attraction
Twist of Faith
Hershey’s Choice
His Candy Christmas (Redford Falls Story 1)
Kissed By Winter (Redford Falls Story 2)
Under The Apple Blossoms (Redford Falls Story 3)
A Recipe For Forever (Redford Falls Story 4)
Cherry Red
Finding Home Again (Redford Falls Story 5) February 07, 2022
Reviews
5 Stars – Goodreads H. Roman - Great story, fun romance, well-developed characters make this book a joy to read.
5 Stars - Goodreads G. Rifkin - Fun and tasty read. A happy little escape.
5 Stars – Goodreads Wild Women Reviews - Interesting, relatable characters with crisp, snappy dialogue. Cherry Red deserves a 6.
November 6, 2021
Maggie Blackbird, my fiery friend, joins us today.
It's wonderful when you meet someone who reflects the things you love and today's guest is one of those and I can't wait for you to meet her. At my house we are often at the chiminea in the yard or propane firepit on the deck. Sometimes Pete and I will read together in front of my electric fireplace in my library/office. You know a camping trip for me isn't complete without a campfire. And today's guest is similar in many ways. So, without further ado please welcome Maggie Blackbird to the fire. And if you'd like to be part of the conversation use the comments section or send me an email at d.v.stone.wordsmith@gmail.com I'd love to hear from you. 
Hi Maggie, I'm so glad to have you at my fire.
I enjoy camping and did lots in my twenties, so sitting around a campfire is a peaceful time for me. It’s a time to either stare at the dancing flames and reflect or lose myself in the beauty of the fire. There are also times when I enjoy the wonderful company of the people I’m camping with. Besides campfires, I also love a good woodstove fire, since hubby and I have a woodstove in our living room. There is something peaceful about fire that can lull me to sleep and remove every ounce of stress in my shoulders.
Fire also plays a key role in my latest release Born for This, book one in the Maizemerized series. The heroine is named after fire, and her ancestors rely heavily on fire to cook and stay warm. Edie, the heroine, loves fire as much as I do. There are many “firsts” that happen for her while she’s seated at the fire or the warming rocks in her adopted parents’ wigwam.
Fire is also big in my family. My brother, before he had to retire for health reasons, was the volunteer fire chief for the reserve’s fire department. Now he is the fire prevention officer, a position once held by my father before he retired, who also served as a volunteer firefighter. My father was instrumental with starting the fire department on the rez with a few close buddies. Before I moved to the country, I was a volunteer firefighter, and so was my late niece. My younger sister still serves as a volunteer.
I couldn’t resist signing up for “around the campfire” when D.V. Stone asked for guests, because fire is right up my alley!
And I am so glad you did! Let's get right into it. Other than a fire lover, who you are other than your bio?
This is a tough question because I rely heavily on my bio LOL. Let’s see. What isn’t in my bio that I can talk about. I am a huge music lover. Always, I have music playing. My fave genres are heavy metal and hard rock, but since I love it all, I can listen to anything from Gordon Lightfoot and Burton Cummings to the Eagles and Waylon Jennings.
My music interests are varied as well, only not metal fan. Not fond of opera either. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? For instance, what do you read or hobbies you have?
Besides music, I am passionate about golf. I love golfing and I love watching golf on TV. My fave golfers are Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, Joost Luiten from the Netherlands, Australia’s Adam Scott, and I can’t forget the USA’s Tiger Woods.
My hubby is fond of golfing, he keeps saying he'll teach me but alas he's been saying that for a while. I do swing a mean golf club on our wii 😉 Who is your network or support system? This would be any groups/authors/friends/family who contributes to your writing career.
I have three close authors friends who I chat with via FB messenger when time allows. These ladies are totally awesome. I also find major great support from my publisher eXtasy Books. I also find belonging to the Toronto Romance Writers is very useful and full of great support. I can’t forget my late father who was a big help with research. I will miss very much having coffee with him while he shared many stories with me.
Oh, Maggie, I'm sorry about your dad, but I'm glad you have great friends to rely on. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
There are too many to list! Such talent out there. But I will stick with romance authors Johanna Lindsey and Rosanne Bittner. They bit me good with the reading romance bug, and then made me want to write romance!
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
No outrageous or fun talent LOL. I wish I could say that I drum, but I don’t. However, I love drums! There is something about the kick drum, the cymbals, the toms…it just grabs me whenever I listen to a song. For me, it’s all about the beat.
We are similar most of my go to music is heavy on the bass or drums. Shh, don't tell but I have a single bongo drum and tambourine. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
My nabe is the country, so there is nothing out here but deer, coyotes, bears, and tons of other wild life. And I LOVE living this way. I would not trade the beauty of nature surrounding me for anything in the world.
It sounds lovely. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
Not as of late. There was much happening on the personal front since April that I devoted my time and attention to.
Do you have a particular object like a piece of jewelry or a keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you?
My wedding band and engagement ring. Why they are special is pretty self-explanatory.
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Potato chips!
Worst household chore?
Dusting the blinds.
Hmm, are they supposed to be dusted? Mwa ha ha. Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Since I very rarely eat at restaurants, I’ll take the first-class tickets.
I'd rather travel too. Did you ever win something? What?
Yes. I’ve won books in contests. Woot!
Nice wins! What was your first job?
I was ten. Delivering newspapers.
How do you select the names of your characters?
Honestly, the characters tell me what their names are, LOL.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
Taking Margie Lawson’s writing classes. She’s the best.
I'll have to check her out. Maggie what a wonderful time I'v had. Thank you so much for being here. If it's not to much trouble will you leave us some information about your books and where readers can find more about you?
Born for This – Maizemerized, book one
by
Maggie Blackbird
Time Travel, Historical Romance, Contemporary Romance, First Nations, Cultural, Adult.
Heat Rating: Level 3
October 29, 2021
She’s always been obsessed with her ancestors, and now he’s offering her a chance to live with them…forever.
Second-year university student Edie Whitecrow gobbles up each course on Indigenous studies. If only she could experience the lives of her Anishinaabe ancestors instead of reading about them. On her way to a Halloween party decked out as a historical Ojibway maiden, she spies a corn maze in a spot known to be barren.
A scarecrow figure beckons Edie to enter with the enticing offer of making her biggest wish come true. She jumps at the chance and finds herself in the past, face to face with the man who haunts her dreams—the handsome brave Thunder Bear. He claims he’s spent twelve years waiting for Gitche Manidoo to send her to him.
Life in the eighteenth century isn’t what Edie romanticized about, though. When her conscience is tested, she must choose between the modern day or the world of her descendants—where the man she was created for resides.
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Add to Goodreads
Purchase at : eXtasy Books
Hi Maggie, I'm so glad to have you at my fire.I enjoy camping and did lots in my twenties, so sitting around a campfire is a peaceful time for me. It’s a time to either stare at the dancing flames and reflect or lose myself in the beauty of the fire. There are also times when I enjoy the wonderful company of the people I’m camping with. Besides campfires, I also love a good woodstove fire, since hubby and I have a woodstove in our living room. There is something peaceful about fire that can lull me to sleep and remove every ounce of stress in my shoulders.
Fire also plays a key role in my latest release Born for This, book one in the Maizemerized series. The heroine is named after fire, and her ancestors rely heavily on fire to cook and stay warm. Edie, the heroine, loves fire as much as I do. There are many “firsts” that happen for her while she’s seated at the fire or the warming rocks in her adopted parents’ wigwam.
Fire is also big in my family. My brother, before he had to retire for health reasons, was the volunteer fire chief for the reserve’s fire department. Now he is the fire prevention officer, a position once held by my father before he retired, who also served as a volunteer firefighter. My father was instrumental with starting the fire department on the rez with a few close buddies. Before I moved to the country, I was a volunteer firefighter, and so was my late niece. My younger sister still serves as a volunteer.
I couldn’t resist signing up for “around the campfire” when D.V. Stone asked for guests, because fire is right up my alley!
And I am so glad you did! Let's get right into it. Other than a fire lover, who you are other than your bio?
This is a tough question because I rely heavily on my bio LOL. Let’s see. What isn’t in my bio that I can talk about. I am a huge music lover. Always, I have music playing. My fave genres are heavy metal and hard rock, but since I love it all, I can listen to anything from Gordon Lightfoot and Burton Cummings to the Eagles and Waylon Jennings.
My music interests are varied as well, only not metal fan. Not fond of opera either. What interests besides writing do you enjoy? For instance, what do you read or hobbies you have?
Besides music, I am passionate about golf. I love golfing and I love watching golf on TV. My fave golfers are Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, Joost Luiten from the Netherlands, Australia’s Adam Scott, and I can’t forget the USA’s Tiger Woods.
My hubby is fond of golfing, he keeps saying he'll teach me but alas he's been saying that for a while. I do swing a mean golf club on our wii 😉 Who is your network or support system? This would be any groups/authors/friends/family who contributes to your writing career.
I have three close authors friends who I chat with via FB messenger when time allows. These ladies are totally awesome. I also find major great support from my publisher eXtasy Books. I also find belonging to the Toronto Romance Writers is very useful and full of great support. I can’t forget my late father who was a big help with research. I will miss very much having coffee with him while he shared many stories with me.
Oh, Maggie, I'm sorry about your dad, but I'm glad you have great friends to rely on. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration?
There are too many to list! Such talent out there. But I will stick with romance authors Johanna Lindsey and Rosanne Bittner. They bit me good with the reading romance bug, and then made me want to write romance!
Do you have any fun or outrageous talent?
No outrageous or fun talent LOL. I wish I could say that I drum, but I don’t. However, I love drums! There is something about the kick drum, the cymbals, the toms…it just grabs me whenever I listen to a song. For me, it’s all about the beat.
We are similar most of my go to music is heavy on the bass or drums. Shh, don't tell but I have a single bongo drum and tambourine. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? What makes them special?
My nabe is the country, so there is nothing out here but deer, coyotes, bears, and tons of other wild life. And I LOVE living this way. I would not trade the beauty of nature surrounding me for anything in the world.
It sounds lovely. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? Tell us a bit about what made it special to you.
Not as of late. There was much happening on the personal front since April that I devoted my time and attention to.
Do you have a particular object like a piece of jewelry or a keepsake of some sort? Can you tell us what makes it special to you?
My wedding band and engagement ring. Why they are special is pretty self-explanatory.
If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be?
Potato chips!
Worst household chore?
Dusting the blinds.
Hmm, are they supposed to be dusted? Mwa ha ha. Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants?
Since I very rarely eat at restaurants, I’ll take the first-class tickets.
I'd rather travel too. Did you ever win something? What?
Yes. I’ve won books in contests. Woot!
Nice wins! What was your first job?
I was ten. Delivering newspapers.
How do you select the names of your characters?
Honestly, the characters tell me what their names are, LOL.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
Taking Margie Lawson’s writing classes. She’s the best.
I'll have to check her out. Maggie what a wonderful time I'v had. Thank you so much for being here. If it's not to much trouble will you leave us some information about your books and where readers can find more about you?
Born for This – Maizemerized, book one
by
Maggie Blackbird
Time Travel, Historical Romance, Contemporary Romance, First Nations, Cultural, Adult.
Heat Rating: Level 3
October 29, 2021
She’s always been obsessed with her ancestors, and now he’s offering her a chance to live with them…forever.
Second-year university student Edie Whitecrow gobbles up each course on Indigenous studies. If only she could experience the lives of her Anishinaabe ancestors instead of reading about them. On her way to a Halloween party decked out as a historical Ojibway maiden, she spies a corn maze in a spot known to be barren.
A scarecrow figure beckons Edie to enter with the enticing offer of making her biggest wish come true. She jumps at the chance and finds herself in the past, face to face with the man who haunts her dreams—the handsome brave Thunder Bear. He claims he’s spent twelve years waiting for Gitche Manidoo to send her to him.
Life in the eighteenth century isn’t what Edie romanticized about, though. When her conscience is tested, she must choose between the modern day or the world of her descendants—where the man she was created for resides.
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Add to Goodreads
Purchase at : eXtasy Books
November 1, 2021
Welcome to Chat Around the Campfire.
Happy November 1st everyone. Thank you for stopping in for a chat around my fire. I hope you enjoy the slightly different format. It's my intention to combine all the things you've loved about Take A Peek Through The Window and Welcome to the Fire.
What can you expect? Meet and greet authors, bloggers, maybe a bookshop owner or two. They will share their life and work with you. Occasionally there will be contests or freebies. So without further ado, please help me welcome my first guest to the new format Jill Piscitello.
Hi Jill! Thank you for stopping by today. The campfire is lit and we are all anxious to know who you are other than your bio? I’m a recent empty nester filling my newfound free time with multiple writing projects. My house is perpetually clutter free, but a bit too quiet.
Writing and life in general can take up a lot of our time. But we need balance. Tell us, what interests besides writing do you enjoy? Last year, I purchased a huge, ancient dollhouse at a yard sale. This was a total impulse buy. I haven’t stopped at a yard sale since accompanying my grandmother in the 80s. My inner child is enjoying the slow, painstaking process of restoring the house to its former glory.
Three cheers for your inner child. Many of us need to let that child out now and then and play. It seems your grandma was an influence in your life, but who else are your go-to people? My biggest support system is my husband. Romance is far from his preferred reading genre. But he’s always willing to comb through a manuscript searching for typos and plot holes.
Good for you and him. My Pete also reads my work first. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? I don’t write in his genre, but Stephen King’s ability to churn out one unputdownable book after another fascinates me. His talent for bringing characters and settings to life and sucking readers into every story is exceptional.
One of may favorites too. Especially his early works. Do you have any fun or outrageous talent? I wish! Does multi-tasking count?
Sure does! I'm not much of a task juggler anymore and admire those who can do it effectively. Can you give us a peek at your world. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? One of my favorite ways to squeeze in a workout is a long walk at a nearby lake. With the exception of storms, I’m willing to walk in all weather. The view never fails to bring me peace.
Taking those walks, especially at this time of year is good for the body, mind and soul. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? I think we can all relate to how wonderful it felt to get away this summer after a long stretch of covid restrictions. I wasn’t ready to go globe trotting just yet, but a few days in New Hampshire were just what the doctor ordered. Sun, sand, food, music, and my family were all I needed to warm my soul.
Oh, yeah. I completely agree. We sometimes need a change of scenery and New Hampshire is gorgeous.
Here's where I love the spontaneous answers. They reveal so much about a person Tell us your favorite childhood book? Or writing that inspired you to become an author. As a child, I couldn’t get enough of the Ramona series. Her antics were laugh out loud relatable for an eight-year-old girl.
Worst household chore? In my opinion, vacuuming stairs is the single most unpleasant chore. Getting into all the nooks and crannies with a lumbering machine is tedious work.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants? Flying is at the top of my least favorite activity list. But trying new restaurants never gets old.
Do you play board games? I’m fairly ruthless when it comes to Scrabble.
What subjects should be taught in school, but aren’t? At risk of sounding old fashioned, I’d love to see even a few weeks within a school year include cursive. Electronic signatures are increasingly eliminating the need for this skill, but there is something to be said for beautiful penmanship.
What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book? After drafting an outline, I often spend several days researching time periods and professions. Once the manuscript is in progress, additional research is always required.
How do you select the names of your characters? I enjoy reusing names from some of my favorite characters and people who’ve brought a smile to my face. A recent example is Clarice Brady from Tinsel and Tea Cakes. Her name was based on Clarice from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the family from The Brady Bunch – two much loved childhood favorites. Don’t be surprised to see the name Cleary pop up in a future book in honor of the great Beverly Cleary.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones? I do read book reviews. Bad ones aren’t pleasant. But if written constructively, they can be useful.
What was your hardest scene to write? The last page of a book is the best advertisement for an author’s next release. The pressure to get the words right is real.
Jill, thanks again for stopping by my campfire. I'd be grateful if you would leave a little bit about your books and where to find out more. By the way your cover is lovely. Jill shared her Dollhouse with us. It's amazing don't you think?
Tinsel and Tea Cakes
by
Jill Piscitello
Step back in time for an unforgettable winter wedding.
Sweet, holiday romance
Hair stylist Scarlett Kerrigan lost her job and her apartment. To alleviate a touch of self-pity, she succumbs to her stepmom’s pressure to attend a wedding in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Unfortunately, she runs into the vacation fling who promised the moon but disappeared without an explanation. Months have passed, but she is not ready to forgive and forget.
After a chaotic year, executive Wes Harley settles into his family's event venue, The Timeless Manor. His carefully structured world is shaken to its core when Scarlett arrives for the Victorian Christmas wedding weekend. The feelings he never quite erased flood to the surface.
When secrets are revealed, will a magical chateau and a sprinkle of tinsel be enough to charm Scarlett?
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09J3FHCP8
https://jillpiscitello.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jillpiscite...
https://www.facebook.com/jillpiscitelloauthor
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jill-piscitello
https://twitter.com/Piscj18
What can you expect? Meet and greet authors, bloggers, maybe a bookshop owner or two. They will share their life and work with you. Occasionally there will be contests or freebies. So without further ado, please help me welcome my first guest to the new format Jill Piscitello.
Hi Jill! Thank you for stopping by today. The campfire is lit and we are all anxious to know who you are other than your bio? I’m a recent empty nester filling my newfound free time with multiple writing projects. My house is perpetually clutter free, but a bit too quiet.Writing and life in general can take up a lot of our time. But we need balance. Tell us, what interests besides writing do you enjoy? Last year, I purchased a huge, ancient dollhouse at a yard sale. This was a total impulse buy. I haven’t stopped at a yard sale since accompanying my grandmother in the 80s. My inner child is enjoying the slow, painstaking process of restoring the house to its former glory.
Three cheers for your inner child. Many of us need to let that child out now and then and play. It seems your grandma was an influence in your life, but who else are your go-to people? My biggest support system is my husband. Romance is far from his preferred reading genre. But he’s always willing to comb through a manuscript searching for typos and plot holes.
Good for you and him. My Pete also reads my work first. Who or what books or authors are your inspiration? I don’t write in his genre, but Stephen King’s ability to churn out one unputdownable book after another fascinates me. His talent for bringing characters and settings to life and sucking readers into every story is exceptional.
One of may favorites too. Especially his early works. Do you have any fun or outrageous talent? I wish! Does multi-tasking count?
Sure does! I'm not much of a task juggler anymore and admire those who can do it effectively. Can you give us a peek at your world. What is your neighborhood like? Are there any places you frequent? One of my favorite ways to squeeze in a workout is a long walk at a nearby lake. With the exception of storms, I’m willing to walk in all weather. The view never fails to bring me peace.
Taking those walks, especially at this time of year is good for the body, mind and soul. Have you had any adventures lately? Conferences, conventions, vacations? I think we can all relate to how wonderful it felt to get away this summer after a long stretch of covid restrictions. I wasn’t ready to go globe trotting just yet, but a few days in New Hampshire were just what the doctor ordered. Sun, sand, food, music, and my family were all I needed to warm my soul.
Oh, yeah. I completely agree. We sometimes need a change of scenery and New Hampshire is gorgeous.
Here's where I love the spontaneous answers. They reveal so much about a person Tell us your favorite childhood book? Or writing that inspired you to become an author. As a child, I couldn’t get enough of the Ramona series. Her antics were laugh out loud relatable for an eight-year-old girl.
Worst household chore? In my opinion, vacuuming stairs is the single most unpleasant chore. Getting into all the nooks and crannies with a lumbering machine is tedious work.
Would you rather have unlimited international first-class tickets or never have to pay for food at restaurants? Flying is at the top of my least favorite activity list. But trying new restaurants never gets old.
Do you play board games? I’m fairly ruthless when it comes to Scrabble.
What subjects should be taught in school, but aren’t? At risk of sounding old fashioned, I’d love to see even a few weeks within a school year include cursive. Electronic signatures are increasingly eliminating the need for this skill, but there is something to be said for beautiful penmanship.
What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book? After drafting an outline, I often spend several days researching time periods and professions. Once the manuscript is in progress, additional research is always required.
How do you select the names of your characters? I enjoy reusing names from some of my favorite characters and people who’ve brought a smile to my face. A recent example is Clarice Brady from Tinsel and Tea Cakes. Her name was based on Clarice from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the family from The Brady Bunch – two much loved childhood favorites. Don’t be surprised to see the name Cleary pop up in a future book in honor of the great Beverly Cleary.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones? I do read book reviews. Bad ones aren’t pleasant. But if written constructively, they can be useful.
What was your hardest scene to write? The last page of a book is the best advertisement for an author’s next release. The pressure to get the words right is real.
Jill, thanks again for stopping by my campfire. I'd be grateful if you would leave a little bit about your books and where to find out more. By the way your cover is lovely. Jill shared her Dollhouse with us. It's amazing don't you think?
Tinsel and Tea Cakes
by
Jill Piscitello
Step back in time for an unforgettable winter wedding.
Sweet, holiday romance
Hair stylist Scarlett Kerrigan lost her job and her apartment. To alleviate a touch of self-pity, she succumbs to her stepmom’s pressure to attend a wedding in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Unfortunately, she runs into the vacation fling who promised the moon but disappeared without an explanation. Months have passed, but she is not ready to forgive and forget.
After a chaotic year, executive Wes Harley settles into his family's event venue, The Timeless Manor. His carefully structured world is shaken to its core when Scarlett arrives for the Victorian Christmas wedding weekend. The feelings he never quite erased flood to the surface.
When secrets are revealed, will a magical chateau and a sprinkle of tinsel be enough to charm Scarlett?
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09J3FHCP8
https://jillpiscitello.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jillpiscite...
https://www.facebook.com/jillpiscitelloauthor
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jill-piscitello
https://twitter.com/Piscj18
October 31, 2021
Welcome to my new updated blog.
Officially we begin tomorrow but we'll consider this a test run.Around the campfire is a melding of Take a Peek Through the Window and Welcome to the Campfire you can still access these by clicking on the menu and you should. Some amazing people have already shared about themselves. We will continue chatting around the campfire because in my opinion that's where the best conversations happen. We're going to continue to peek into author lives and their books, but make more room for new releases, backlists and adventures other than camping.
Hope you all had a marvelous Halloween. Next up Thanksgiving. I think it's one of my favorites. No pressure of gifts. Just friends and family, good food, and maybe a game or two.
I found these statistics and shared them with a few folks earlier this week but hey sharing is caring right? Have you ever been rejected? No? Lucky you. I have. So have these writers. Anyone you recognize?Agatha Christie dealt with 5 years of rejection before she got a deal. Today $2 billion in books have been sold. Louis L’Amour must have been down in the dumps after 200 rejections. A publisher finally signed him. Yeah, 330 million sales.Dan Brown was told The Da Vinci Code badly written. He stuck to it and the novel eventually sold 80 million.Remember a little book called Twilight? 14 agencies said no to Stephanie Meyers. I wouldn't want to tell my boss I rejected a book that has sold 17 million copies. Meg Cabot author of The Princess Diaries kept three years of rejection letters. Now 15 million copies later, I bet she looks at those and laughs.Louisa May Alcott was told to give up. Nope and 140 years later she still sells books.I'm binging Harry Potter right now. Did you know The Sorcerer's Stone took 13 tries before finally being picked up? Still feeling rejected? You're in good company. Keep plugging away.
And come back tomorrow for my inaugural guest and her so sweet Christmas Cookie book.
TTFN
D.
https://www.instagram.com/d.v.stone/
https://twitter.com/donnavstone
https://www.facebook.com/dv.stone.1
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16344100.D_V_Stone
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/d-v-stone
https://www.amazon.com/D.-V.-Stone/e/B01N154Y9U
https://www.tiktok.com/@dvstoneauthor
https://mailchi.mp/3b289d8d7569/d-v-stones-peek-further-and-campfire-crew
October 30, 2021
Welcome to the Campfire Randy Overbeck.
Hello, all my Campfire friends! Starting next week we're going to have a new fangled campfire blog. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I have putting it together. There still will be camping stories, author interviews, and books many books. Sometimes you need to freshen things up. If you haven't signed up for my monthly newsletter that goes out tomorrow November 1st you still have time. Here's the link
mailchi.mp/cebf7ab2f016/what-day-is-it Let me know if you want a 2022 Calendar from Wild Rose Press with Rock House Grill. Now let's get to it. My guest today has a ghost story for you. And what's better around the fire than a tale of specters and spirits. Take it away Randy. I'll be peeking out the window.👻
Picture
Halloween or All Hallowed Eve
Halloween, the great American tradition, when everyone, young and old, enjoys getting at least a little scared and revels in a little mystery. The night when beggars prowl the streets seeking candy and perhaps a little fright. It’s the only time of year when teens and adults will pay good money to have their pants scared off them at a thousand haunted houses around the country. (Insert jack-o-lantern pic)
An argument can be made that the greatest scares on this night arise from chainsaw killers and raving monsters, blood-sucking vampires and howling werewolves, or even terrifying aliens. While I admit each and every one of these can set the blood curdling, I’d submit that’s not what Halloween is about, not really.
What we celebrate as Halloween was originally known as All Hallowed Eve. (Well, okay, it actually dates back to an ancient Celtic celebration called Samhain and a Roman holiday, Feralia, both of which were incorporated over the centuries into the Christian All Hallowed Eve.) All Hallowed Eve, later Halloween, was the day Christians honored those who have passed and, on this day, they acknowledged sometimes the dead are still with us. While the traditions of these celebrations differed from culture to culture—for example, the Romans brought offerings to graves and the Celts were required to sacrifice some of their children (yikes!)—the one thread that runs through all three celebrations is the steadfast belief in ghosts. The Celts, the Romans and the early Christians understood there is but a thin veil that separates this world from the next. This autumnal feast, halfway between the end of harvest and the winter solstice, was the day spirits from the other side chose to cross this veil and visit the living.
According to legends, some of these ghosts were friendly, if sometimes mischievous, while others were angry, malevolent, and even violent. But those humans celebrating Samhain or Feralia or All Hallowed Eve/Halloween knew that they ignored these visiting spirits at their peril and knew they needed to honor the ghosts. (Insert pic of ghost)
Perhaps, that’s where the tradition of sitting around the campfire, staring into the glowing coals, and reciting eerie ghost stories comes from. An experience dating back centuries to honor those who have gone before us—and maybe haven’t all gone at all.
So while Dracula or Freddie or Ironman might make better costumes for this year’s Halloween celebration—I mean, how do you dress like a ghost anyway—you would do well not to ignore the spirits roaming among us. They require us to honor them and the dead who have gone because all too soon we will join them.
Oh, by the way, I thought I saw something shimmering behind you. Don’t look.
Happy Halloween! You might want to celebrate the holiday by learning about ghosts by reading my Haunted Shores Mysteries, #1 BLOOD ON THE CHESAPEAKE (which is also a #1 Amazon Best Seller) #2 CRIMSON AT CAPE MAY, and #3 SCARLET AT CRYSTAL RIVER.
for the full blog including blurb go to
https://www.dvstoneauthor.com/httpsww...
Scarlet at Crystal River
mailchi.mp/cebf7ab2f016/what-day-is-it Let me know if you want a 2022 Calendar from Wild Rose Press with Rock House Grill. Now let's get to it. My guest today has a ghost story for you. And what's better around the fire than a tale of specters and spirits. Take it away Randy. I'll be peeking out the window.👻
Picture
Halloween or All Hallowed Eve
Halloween, the great American tradition, when everyone, young and old, enjoys getting at least a little scared and revels in a little mystery. The night when beggars prowl the streets seeking candy and perhaps a little fright. It’s the only time of year when teens and adults will pay good money to have their pants scared off them at a thousand haunted houses around the country. (Insert jack-o-lantern pic)
An argument can be made that the greatest scares on this night arise from chainsaw killers and raving monsters, blood-sucking vampires and howling werewolves, or even terrifying aliens. While I admit each and every one of these can set the blood curdling, I’d submit that’s not what Halloween is about, not really.
What we celebrate as Halloween was originally known as All Hallowed Eve. (Well, okay, it actually dates back to an ancient Celtic celebration called Samhain and a Roman holiday, Feralia, both of which were incorporated over the centuries into the Christian All Hallowed Eve.) All Hallowed Eve, later Halloween, was the day Christians honored those who have passed and, on this day, they acknowledged sometimes the dead are still with us. While the traditions of these celebrations differed from culture to culture—for example, the Romans brought offerings to graves and the Celts were required to sacrifice some of their children (yikes!)—the one thread that runs through all three celebrations is the steadfast belief in ghosts. The Celts, the Romans and the early Christians understood there is but a thin veil that separates this world from the next. This autumnal feast, halfway between the end of harvest and the winter solstice, was the day spirits from the other side chose to cross this veil and visit the living.
According to legends, some of these ghosts were friendly, if sometimes mischievous, while others were angry, malevolent, and even violent. But those humans celebrating Samhain or Feralia or All Hallowed Eve/Halloween knew that they ignored these visiting spirits at their peril and knew they needed to honor the ghosts. (Insert pic of ghost)
Perhaps, that’s where the tradition of sitting around the campfire, staring into the glowing coals, and reciting eerie ghost stories comes from. An experience dating back centuries to honor those who have gone before us—and maybe haven’t all gone at all.
So while Dracula or Freddie or Ironman might make better costumes for this year’s Halloween celebration—I mean, how do you dress like a ghost anyway—you would do well not to ignore the spirits roaming among us. They require us to honor them and the dead who have gone because all too soon we will join them.
Oh, by the way, I thought I saw something shimmering behind you. Don’t look.
Happy Halloween! You might want to celebrate the holiday by learning about ghosts by reading my Haunted Shores Mysteries, #1 BLOOD ON THE CHESAPEAKE (which is also a #1 Amazon Best Seller) #2 CRIMSON AT CAPE MAY, and #3 SCARLET AT CRYSTAL RIVER.
for the full blog including blurb go to
https://www.dvstoneauthor.com/httpsww...
Scarlet at Crystal River
October 27, 2021
October 27th, 2021
Who – A native New Yorker now a relocated-to-the-Southwest romance-writing retired minister. I came across a saying which I’ve framed: do more of what makes you happy. That’s writing. I write in three romance subgenres: as Anna Taylor I write Christian inspirational, as Anna M. Taylor I write gothic and as Michal Scott I write erotic (mainly historical). I’ve had nine works published since I debuted with Through A Glass Darkly, my first Christian inspirational in 2008. Last year I dove into the self-publishing waters with my Haunted Harlem novella series. This year I’ve participated in Falling Hard, my second Passionate Ink anthology and Cowboys, my third Delilah Devlin Boy’s Behaving Badly anthology.Interests – While I have many I must confess currently my number one can be summed up by this line from Shakespeare: “If music be the food of love play on.” I love music. Growing up in NYC, two of my favorite libraries were the Donnell Music library on 53rd Street and the Lincoln Center Library for the Performing Arts. Back then I could take out LPs and music scores to my adolescent’s heart’s delight: original Broadway cast albums, vintage recordings by conductors like Leopold Stokowski and Arturo Toscanni, performances of rarely heard works like Duke Ellington’s Black Brown and Beige. These days I use my Twitter and Facebook accounts more to share this interest than even to promote my writing.
Network – I’ve been writing romance seriously since I joined Romance Writers of America in 2003. Since then I’ve been a member on and off in eight of their chapters. The latest writing organization I’ve begun participating with is Romance Slam Jam. Started in 1995 in Dallas Texas “to demonstrate the power, passion and pain of black love.” It’s where I’ve been becoming acquainted with scores of African-American writers, podcasters, bloggers and readers.
Desk – Since moving to the Southwest I’ve replaced my lap on the way to work whether on the Long Island Railroad to Jamaica Queens or the Transport of New Jersey bus to Paterson NJ with a copper patio table in warm weather and my lap again in my bedroom with the heater on when it’s cold.
Outrageous: I have a VHS tape library of every episode of Sex in the City, quite a feat considering I only started watching it when it went into syndication. It’s neat comparing the edited versions aired on commercial broadcast TV with the unexpurgated versions I’m able to watch on Amazon Prime and in my iTunes library. I was a huge X-Files fan and have every episode of its nine seasons recorded in my VHS library as well. Writing X-Files fanfic is what revived my love of writing.
Window – My window on the world is my patio. Every morning and afternoon I can watch birds on the feeders. My backyard has also become a safe haven for recurring friends like Brownie the rabbit, Grayboy the squirrel (who feels comfortable enough to spread out on the patio after getting his fill of the Wildlife food I sprinkle on the ground), and an occasional road runner.
A Peek Through Anna's window
A Little In Love With Death (Haunted Harlem Book 2)
by
Anna M. Taylor
https://amzn.to/3mGvWci
For the last hour Sankofa Lawford blinked through a haze of tears at her mother’s stricken face. She held the glassy-eyed woman’s hand and tried repeatedly to get her attention. No gesture stilled the older woman’s incessant rocking. No words penetrated her intonation of the same awful phrase.
“Them that tell don’t know and them that know don’t tell.
Them that tell don’t know and them that know don’t tell.”
Wanda Lawford suddenly stopped rocking and stared in Sankofa’s direction.
“Sankofa?”
A bright glint of glee shone in Wanda’s gaze. Hope struggled for a foothold in Sankofa’s heart then slipped as a death head’s grin contorted her mother’s once beautiful features. With a grip made strong from madness, she pulled her daughter’s hand to her chest and leaned in so her lips pressed against Sankofa’s ears.
“A word to the wise is sufficient. Have you been wise?”
Her hissed warning parodied whispered confidences mother and daughter had shared in the past. Sankofa kissed away a tear from her mother’s cheek.
“Yes, Mama.” She swallowed the lie with a smile. “I’ve been wise.”
Wanda Lawford cupped her daughter’s face and smiled too.
“Good. He shouldn’t have gotten you then, but if you’re wise, he won’t get you now.”
Sankofa took a deep breath and controlled her sadness despite the wobble of her lips.
“Rest now, Mama. Rest. Okay?”
Wanda released Sankofa’s hand only to grip her own and begin rocking again, begin repeating again.
“Them that tell don’t know and them that know don’t tell.”
Them that tell don’t know and them that know don’t tell.”
Sankofa groped her way toward the door, willed her halting feet toward the sanity of the hospital corridor. She pressed a hand against her chest and leaned backed against a wall.
Sad-faced flower-carrying visitors brightened frowns into smiles before entering the rooms of their loved ones. Nurses’ aides delivered lunch on rattling carts. A call for Dr. Li to come to the nurses’ station sang through the air. The tang of Lysol assaulted her from the room across from her mother’s where orderlies cleaned up behind a happy return home or a sadder departure to the morgue. She lifted a silent prayer of thanks for these small handholds on normalcy.
“Jesus, have mercy. ”
Peek Further
Anna M. Taylor website: https://annamtaylor.webs.com
Anna M. Taylor Amazon Author Page - https://amzn.to/355nKv0
Twitter: @revannable
Anna M. Taylor FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/annamtaylorAuthor
