Laura M. Baird's Blog, page 15
September 27, 2021
So, I did a thing...
... and it's a good thing. Great, in fact!
After sadly saying good bye to the Summer Heat anthology, I debated on what I wanted to do with my fun, sexy summer story. And what I came up with was a big step for me. For others, it may not seem like a big deal, but as I test the waters, I'm sure I'll be doing more.
So what's this "thing" I did?
I self-published Kiss Me at Sunset WIDE! As of writing this post, I'm still waiting for confirmation on a few sites, Amazon being one, because we know how finicky they can be. ;) And instead of putting KMaS up through my own KDP then Wide through Draft2Digital for the other platforms, I just decided to give it one shot and see how the process goes. This could very well change for future endeavors, as it's all a learning process.
But the point is, I DID IT!
I wanted to be able to continue to share this story with more readers because I loved it so much! And I hope more readers will as well!
Kiss Me at Sunset releases October 11th and I'll be putting the book up on GR soon, but here's the link:
https://books2read.com/KissMeAtSunset
In other news, the authors of the Backbone Single Parent Finding Love anthology are hosting a Hop over on Facebook where you can meet us, get sneak peeks at our stories, and have a chance to win a GC and a free ebook from each participating author.
Head over and join the Backbone, Finding Love group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/92694...
And your starting point for the Hop is here:
https://www.facebook.com/alexiferreir...
The idea is to collect key word(s) from each author and fill them into a form back in the Backbone group which you'll find under 'Announcements'.
Good luck and have fun!
After sadly saying good bye to the Summer Heat anthology, I debated on what I wanted to do with my fun, sexy summer story. And what I came up with was a big step for me. For others, it may not seem like a big deal, but as I test the waters, I'm sure I'll be doing more.
So what's this "thing" I did?
I self-published Kiss Me at Sunset WIDE! As of writing this post, I'm still waiting for confirmation on a few sites, Amazon being one, because we know how finicky they can be. ;) And instead of putting KMaS up through my own KDP then Wide through Draft2Digital for the other platforms, I just decided to give it one shot and see how the process goes. This could very well change for future endeavors, as it's all a learning process.
But the point is, I DID IT!
I wanted to be able to continue to share this story with more readers because I loved it so much! And I hope more readers will as well!
Kiss Me at Sunset releases October 11th and I'll be putting the book up on GR soon, but here's the link:
https://books2read.com/KissMeAtSunset
In other news, the authors of the Backbone Single Parent Finding Love anthology are hosting a Hop over on Facebook where you can meet us, get sneak peeks at our stories, and have a chance to win a GC and a free ebook from each participating author.
Head over and join the Backbone, Finding Love group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/92694...
And your starting point for the Hop is here:
https://www.facebook.com/alexiferreir...
The idea is to collect key word(s) from each author and fill them into a form back in the Backbone group which you'll find under 'Announcements'.
Good luck and have fun!
September 13, 2021
Fall Fun is on its way!
We're a week away from the start of Fall/Autumn here in the Northern Hemisphere and there's already a change in the air at home in the Pacific Northwest. Leaves are turning and many are already blanketing our property. I look forward to the cooler yet still sunny days but not the loss of the gorgeous colors.
How about you? What do you like this time of year?
There's plenty happening with my writing schedule and upcoming releases, not to mention promotions and Facebook parties, so get ready!
Half of the Love at First Kiss stories have released and I've been enjoying them all. I've had nice feedback and reviews for mine. Hope you're enjoying the college romances.
Changing the Game
Mark your calendar for the Fall into a Book Giveaway Event on FB in the Isn't it Romantic Book Club on 9/24.
Over 200 authors will be engaging and awarding prizes. Join the group and join the fun.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/75025...
The same is happening now and throughout the coming months in the Backbone, Finding Love group. I'm excited to be a participating author in the Single Parent Finding Love anthology, releasing Feb 2022. Until then, you can get to know all the authors and have a chance to win GCs and prizes.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/92694...
Backbone, Single Parents Finding Love Anthology
My story, Desire and Sacrifice, features Mick (former Navy SEAL) who has a cameo in Passion and Duty. You can download it now to enjoy by signing up for my newsletter. In my newsletters, I also share plenty of recommendations and links for free reads (as well as random giveaways as a way to thank you - my loyal and appreciated fans!)
https://BookHip.com/WFSRQA
And finally, as Summer winds down, so does the time remaining that you can enjoy the Summer Heat anthology. It's only available for a limited time, so don't miss out. It's in Kindle Unlimited until 9/18, and after 9/28 it'll no longer be around.
Summer Heat
Until next time, enjoy your days and happy reading!
xo
How about you? What do you like this time of year?
There's plenty happening with my writing schedule and upcoming releases, not to mention promotions and Facebook parties, so get ready!
Half of the Love at First Kiss stories have released and I've been enjoying them all. I've had nice feedback and reviews for mine. Hope you're enjoying the college romances.
Changing the Game
Mark your calendar for the Fall into a Book Giveaway Event on FB in the Isn't it Romantic Book Club on 9/24.
Over 200 authors will be engaging and awarding prizes. Join the group and join the fun.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/75025...
The same is happening now and throughout the coming months in the Backbone, Finding Love group. I'm excited to be a participating author in the Single Parent Finding Love anthology, releasing Feb 2022. Until then, you can get to know all the authors and have a chance to win GCs and prizes.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/92694...
Backbone, Single Parents Finding Love Anthology
My story, Desire and Sacrifice, features Mick (former Navy SEAL) who has a cameo in Passion and Duty. You can download it now to enjoy by signing up for my newsletter. In my newsletters, I also share plenty of recommendations and links for free reads (as well as random giveaways as a way to thank you - my loyal and appreciated fans!)
https://BookHip.com/WFSRQA
And finally, as Summer winds down, so does the time remaining that you can enjoy the Summer Heat anthology. It's only available for a limited time, so don't miss out. It's in Kindle Unlimited until 9/18, and after 9/28 it'll no longer be around.
Summer Heat
Until next time, enjoy your days and happy reading!
xo
September 5, 2021
You deserve a thanks!
Hey readers!
Just popping in for a hot second to say hope you had a fantastic weekend and thank you!
Thanks for reading my blog, reading and reviewing my books, and following my journey!
If you haven't yet read any books... what are ya waiting for? And if you're still crafting that review, it only has to be short and sweet. ;)
But seriously, thanks. I hope I've brought you enjoyment because that's my mission.
So happy reading and I'll see you again soon.
xo
Just popping in for a hot second to say hope you had a fantastic weekend and thank you!
Thanks for reading my blog, reading and reviewing my books, and following my journey!
If you haven't yet read any books... what are ya waiting for? And if you're still crafting that review, it only has to be short and sweet. ;)
But seriously, thanks. I hope I've brought you enjoyment because that's my mission.
So happy reading and I'll see you again soon.
xo
August 30, 2021
Is there an easy way to do author promotions?
Marketing and promoting can be some of the toughest and most time-consuming aspects of being an author. As many of you know, there are a gajillion sites out there! From running ads to getting into newsletters to being featured in interviews, and on blogs and podcasts.... the possibilities are endless. Not to mention the range of costs. So how to decide where to put your time and money?
Unless you're already loaded (and in that case probably don't even need to read further) ;) ...you start off small and work your way up, keeping track of what you do, when you do it, and if it's making a difference.
It's a tremendous blessing to have a core of author friends who share good news, whether it be new releases, sales, contests, and so on. It's free, done out of the kindness of their hearts, and is a wonderful boost.
There are sites such as Bookfunnel and StoryOrigin where you can participate in promos, and there are plenty of groups on Facebook where you can find swaps for newsletters or share your good news openly at no cost or obligation. Not to mention groups where you can participate in parties, engage with readers, and hopefully gain new fans. Here are a few:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/isnti...
(They've got a fabulous Fall Event happening 9/24, so check it out!)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/roman...
(And the Romance Chicks have a monthly giveaway every 15th!)
Then of course there are the paid promotions and ads. While I have yet to try any Facebook or Bookbub ads (and have heard mixed opinions) I know at some point I'll dive in. Until then, I'll look for more reasonably priced and effective avenues.
Three in particular are The TBR Pile, N. N Light's Book Heaven, and Crave Books.
Bella and Christine at The TBR Pile are great! Enthusiastic, timely, professional; offering a variety of packages.
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/advertis...
Mrs. N. makes it incredibly easy and she's a joy to work with! And there's always a great event going on!
https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
At Crave Books, authors create a profile, add their books, and select promotions. It really is that simple. They've streamlined booking with a multitude of promotional sites all in one location, and it's not just for romance authors. They welcome ALL writers in nearly every genre. Give them a try! And for a limited time, authors can use code August30off to receive 30% off your next promotion.
https://cravebooks.com/author?rfid=CB...
Now I realize this is just a small fraction of what's available out there, and while I've tried a few other avenues, these are just a few I thought I'd highlight.
If you have other successes you'd like known, tell me about them in the comments! Let's help one another along this journey.
Happy promoting!
Unless you're already loaded (and in that case probably don't even need to read further) ;) ...you start off small and work your way up, keeping track of what you do, when you do it, and if it's making a difference.
It's a tremendous blessing to have a core of author friends who share good news, whether it be new releases, sales, contests, and so on. It's free, done out of the kindness of their hearts, and is a wonderful boost.
There are sites such as Bookfunnel and StoryOrigin where you can participate in promos, and there are plenty of groups on Facebook where you can find swaps for newsletters or share your good news openly at no cost or obligation. Not to mention groups where you can participate in parties, engage with readers, and hopefully gain new fans. Here are a few:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/isnti...
(They've got a fabulous Fall Event happening 9/24, so check it out!)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/roman...
(And the Romance Chicks have a monthly giveaway every 15th!)
Then of course there are the paid promotions and ads. While I have yet to try any Facebook or Bookbub ads (and have heard mixed opinions) I know at some point I'll dive in. Until then, I'll look for more reasonably priced and effective avenues.
Three in particular are The TBR Pile, N. N Light's Book Heaven, and Crave Books.
Bella and Christine at The TBR Pile are great! Enthusiastic, timely, professional; offering a variety of packages.
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/advertis...
Mrs. N. makes it incredibly easy and she's a joy to work with! And there's always a great event going on!
https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
At Crave Books, authors create a profile, add their books, and select promotions. It really is that simple. They've streamlined booking with a multitude of promotional sites all in one location, and it's not just for romance authors. They welcome ALL writers in nearly every genre. Give them a try! And for a limited time, authors can use code August30off to receive 30% off your next promotion.
https://cravebooks.com/author?rfid=CB...
Now I realize this is just a small fraction of what's available out there, and while I've tried a few other avenues, these are just a few I thought I'd highlight.
If you have other successes you'd like known, tell me about them in the comments! Let's help one another along this journey.
Happy promoting!
Release day is near while another release is nearing its end.
Hey, readers!
It's almost release day for my new adult college romance, Changing the Game! No matter your age, I think you will love this charming, steamy second chance romance that will deliver laughs and sighs. And there are plenty more upcoming releases in the series ~ so enjoy! Plus it's a bargain at only 99 cents or free in Kindle Unlimited!
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
Now about another release that's nearing its end... it's true, sadly. The Summer Heat anthology was planned to be a limited run, so readers will only have until September 27th to binge on eight sexy, intriguing novellas by fabulous international authors. Get your digital copy at Amazon, or if you want those stories forever, print edition is also available. Plus it's in Kindle Unlimited!
Summer Heat
Until next time, enjoy the start of September, and a longer upcoming weekend for those in the US!
Be well and happy reading!
Laura xo
It's almost release day for my new adult college romance, Changing the Game! No matter your age, I think you will love this charming, steamy second chance romance that will deliver laughs and sighs. And there are plenty more upcoming releases in the series ~ so enjoy! Plus it's a bargain at only 99 cents or free in Kindle Unlimited!
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
Now about another release that's nearing its end... it's true, sadly. The Summer Heat anthology was planned to be a limited run, so readers will only have until September 27th to binge on eight sexy, intriguing novellas by fabulous international authors. Get your digital copy at Amazon, or if you want those stories forever, print edition is also available. Plus it's in Kindle Unlimited!
Summer Heat
Until next time, enjoy the start of September, and a longer upcoming weekend for those in the US!
Be well and happy reading!
Laura xo
August 22, 2021
Catching up...
Hey, all! Yes, I'm a bit behind on my blog posts here, and it's not for a lack of something to say! ;)
Between writing, reading, promoting, family, and work, you could say I've been a bit busy and unfortunately, this blog hasn't been given top priority. For those of you who enjoy reading my posts, I apologize and will strive to do better. And for those who really aren't bothered by my lack of communication here, well, that's okay too. We all can't keep up with everything.
So, in a nutshell, I'll give you the quick run-down.
While I'm reeeeally close to wrapping up my bear shifter story, I've been promoting others and still hoping to get to work soon on a holiday romance.
I've been diligent about my newsletters, promoting free reads, promotions, and new releases, as well as running random contests. I invite you to sign up and tell any reader friends who may enjoy as well.
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Four of the twelve stories in the Love at First Kiss series has released and mine is up next on September 1st. Want to be one of the first to get it now? I'm looking for readers who use a Nook (or comparable device that takes ePub format) to read and give me feedback on said format. Reviews are always appreciated but not required, so if you'd like an ePub format, just drop a comment below or email me at laurambaird@outlook.com
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
There's exciting news for readers who like a book-in-hand! Two anthologies I'm honored to be a part of are now available in print through Amazon. These collections have become international best sellers! Whether you like digital or print, if you haven't already binged these steamy, intriguing reads, there's no time like the present.
Billion Dollar Love
Reluctant Bride
So now that you're caught up, until next time - when I'll try to be more timely - be well and happy reading!
Laura xo
Between writing, reading, promoting, family, and work, you could say I've been a bit busy and unfortunately, this blog hasn't been given top priority. For those of you who enjoy reading my posts, I apologize and will strive to do better. And for those who really aren't bothered by my lack of communication here, well, that's okay too. We all can't keep up with everything.
So, in a nutshell, I'll give you the quick run-down.
While I'm reeeeally close to wrapping up my bear shifter story, I've been promoting others and still hoping to get to work soon on a holiday romance.
I've been diligent about my newsletters, promoting free reads, promotions, and new releases, as well as running random contests. I invite you to sign up and tell any reader friends who may enjoy as well.
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Four of the twelve stories in the Love at First Kiss series has released and mine is up next on September 1st. Want to be one of the first to get it now? I'm looking for readers who use a Nook (or comparable device that takes ePub format) to read and give me feedback on said format. Reviews are always appreciated but not required, so if you'd like an ePub format, just drop a comment below or email me at laurambaird@outlook.com
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
There's exciting news for readers who like a book-in-hand! Two anthologies I'm honored to be a part of are now available in print through Amazon. These collections have become international best sellers! Whether you like digital or print, if you haven't already binged these steamy, intriguing reads, there's no time like the present.
Billion Dollar Love
Reluctant Bride
So now that you're caught up, until next time - when I'll try to be more timely - be well and happy reading!
Laura xo
August 1, 2021
Ushering in August with updates
Hello, August!
We're in the heart of summer here in the US and I can already tell a change in the days... they're getting shorter!
But there's still plenty of summertime fun to be had, with sunny days, not-to0-hot temps, and time with family.
We're one month away from the release of my college romance, Changing the Game. My all-new fun and steamy new adult novella in the interconnected Love at First Kiss World. It can be preordered now and delivered to your kindle on September 1st.
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
Now I'm switching gears to write about bear shifter brothers! Another all-new novella in an interconnected world of Shifter Mail-order Brides. That's right! A modern twist on what some think of as an antiquated notion. But get ready for grumpy bachelor bears to find their perfect mate. And only strong women will do for the King brothers of Virginia!
I'm still hoping to get rolling on a holiday story that's been on my mind because it's never too early to think about holiday romance.
Remember, you'll get more updates and exclusives, not to mention romances reads at no cost to you, when you sign up for my newsletter. I'd love to have you on board.
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Happy reading... and if you've read a worthy book you think others should discover, be sure to leave your review.
Be well! xo
We're in the heart of summer here in the US and I can already tell a change in the days... they're getting shorter!
But there's still plenty of summertime fun to be had, with sunny days, not-to0-hot temps, and time with family.
We're one month away from the release of my college romance, Changing the Game. My all-new fun and steamy new adult novella in the interconnected Love at First Kiss World. It can be preordered now and delivered to your kindle on September 1st.
Changing the Game: A Second Chance "Love At First Kiss" College Romance
Now I'm switching gears to write about bear shifter brothers! Another all-new novella in an interconnected world of Shifter Mail-order Brides. That's right! A modern twist on what some think of as an antiquated notion. But get ready for grumpy bachelor bears to find their perfect mate. And only strong women will do for the King brothers of Virginia!
I'm still hoping to get rolling on a holiday story that's been on my mind because it's never too early to think about holiday romance.
Remember, you'll get more updates and exclusives, not to mention romances reads at no cost to you, when you sign up for my newsletter. I'd love to have you on board.
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Happy reading... and if you've read a worthy book you think others should discover, be sure to leave your review.
Be well! xo
July 19, 2021
Writing updates and bookish news
Hello, readers (and authors alike)!
I'm excited to announce Summer Heat is now available in print, for those who love holding a book in your hand!
Summer Heat
And don't worry, it's still in Kindle Unlimited for your enjoyment. This collection of steamy, summer-themed stories will introduce you to international and coast-to-coast settings involving wine and food as well as sexy romance and plenty of laughs.
On the writing front, I've completed a short story for a single parent anthology that will be releasing in February 2022. I loved writing a strong single mother and her spirited daughter, along with the sexy former-SEAL neighbor who wins their love.
Now I move onto my next work-in-progress which is a novella in a bear shifter shared-world project. Five brothers and their mail-order brides. Antiquated? Ho, no! This story is bringing the sass and sexy times in a modern-day setting.
As for publishing, the Summer Heat and the Reluctant Bride anthologies are receiving wonderful reviews, and I couldn't be more thrilled to be among the amazing authors in both projects.
Reluctant Bride
My next release is coming September 1st ~ a New Adult college romance in the Love at First Kiss world.
If you subscribe to my NL, you'll get first peek on 7/21 at the cover reveals and preorder link.
Twelve authors have come together to offer steamy, quirky, and fun romances set in New England at a fictional college campus.
As you can see, I'm keeping plenty busy while still making time for promotion and fun, spending time with family. Hubby and I are enjoying some drag racing events and I hope to make at least one trip out to the coast and get some beach time in!
Hope your days and nights are treating you well!
Find time to relax and enjoy. Happy reading! xo
I'm excited to announce Summer Heat is now available in print, for those who love holding a book in your hand!
Summer Heat
And don't worry, it's still in Kindle Unlimited for your enjoyment. This collection of steamy, summer-themed stories will introduce you to international and coast-to-coast settings involving wine and food as well as sexy romance and plenty of laughs.
On the writing front, I've completed a short story for a single parent anthology that will be releasing in February 2022. I loved writing a strong single mother and her spirited daughter, along with the sexy former-SEAL neighbor who wins their love.
Now I move onto my next work-in-progress which is a novella in a bear shifter shared-world project. Five brothers and their mail-order brides. Antiquated? Ho, no! This story is bringing the sass and sexy times in a modern-day setting.
As for publishing, the Summer Heat and the Reluctant Bride anthologies are receiving wonderful reviews, and I couldn't be more thrilled to be among the amazing authors in both projects.
Reluctant Bride
My next release is coming September 1st ~ a New Adult college romance in the Love at First Kiss world.
If you subscribe to my NL, you'll get first peek on 7/21 at the cover reveals and preorder link.
Twelve authors have come together to offer steamy, quirky, and fun romances set in New England at a fictional college campus.
As you can see, I'm keeping plenty busy while still making time for promotion and fun, spending time with family. Hubby and I are enjoying some drag racing events and I hope to make at least one trip out to the coast and get some beach time in!
Hope your days and nights are treating you well!
Find time to relax and enjoy. Happy reading! xo
July 5, 2021
Well, hello, July!
So now that half the year has passed, I look back at my accomplishments as well as look ahead to my goals.
I've had the fortune to have three new reads published with Park Avenue Princess: A Hero Club Novel; as well as stories in both the Summer Heat anthology and the Reluctant Bride anthology (which has already become a best seller!)
While I am taking time to enjoy family and what will no doubt be a short-lived summer (because they pass all too quickly), I'm also writing and planning, with an upcoming release 9/1 - more on that soon! - along with two more writing projects in another anthology and a shared world.
I also hope to get a holiday romance completed... so, yeah, I have lofty goals.
Hubby and I are also hoping for at least one road trip where we'll enjoy some drag racing and a hot air balloon festival.
I hope your summer is filled with plenty of fun and of course plenty of reading! Any terrific plans to boast about? Let me know!
If you want to know and see more ~ sign of up my newsletter and receive free reads. ;)
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Be well! xo
I've had the fortune to have three new reads published with Park Avenue Princess: A Hero Club Novel; as well as stories in both the Summer Heat anthology and the Reluctant Bride anthology (which has already become a best seller!)
While I am taking time to enjoy family and what will no doubt be a short-lived summer (because they pass all too quickly), I'm also writing and planning, with an upcoming release 9/1 - more on that soon! - along with two more writing projects in another anthology and a shared world.
I also hope to get a holiday romance completed... so, yeah, I have lofty goals.
Hubby and I are also hoping for at least one road trip where we'll enjoy some drag racing and a hot air balloon festival.
I hope your summer is filled with plenty of fun and of course plenty of reading! Any terrific plans to boast about? Let me know!
If you want to know and see more ~ sign of up my newsletter and receive free reads. ;)
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Be well! xo
June 7, 2021
What does Seasoned Romance mean to you?
Before the term 'seasoned romance' became a term, I was writing it. But I was far from the only one doing so.
Here are just a few of the wonderful authors I've come in contact with who write in this category:
Sandra Antonelli
Freya Barker
Karen Booth
Natasha Moore
Reese Ryan
Maggie Wells
What is seasoned romance? Well if you weren't already familiar with the designation, it's a romance story featuring the heroine/hero in their 30s and beyond. Some may argue a character in their 30s isn't "seasoned"; that they're still young and vital. Or that nobody wants to read about people in their 50s "getting it on". I argue that ANY character can be vital, youthful, and hold the starring role in a book, and that romance is more than "getting it on."
Although I'd been writing for many years, it wasn't until my late forties that I became serious about it and pursued publishing. And as a reader, I wasn't seeing many - if any - books at the time that centered on characters beyond their 20s. Sure, my writing contains those in that age range, but I wanted to write more of what I felt was a representation of where I was in life. I wanted to see more mature characters, so I started writing them. In fact my first published romance with Evernight Publishing, Second Time Love, features Grace, 50, and Cole 51; and it went on to become an award winning story.
Second Time Love
I continued to write about characters in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, and I started to notice more talk about seasoned romance. Terms were tossed about, such as mature romance/characters, older characters; and now Amazon even has a specific category called Later in Life Romance.
I was thrilled when I came across two marvelous groups on Facebook that centered around mature characters.
The Seasoned Romance Group as well as the group Romance in Her Prime.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/95831...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Roman...
Some ask what's the big deal about all this? Well, it is a big deal! Love, desire, passion, life doesn't stop at a certain age. And that's the beauty about the abundance of choices when it comes to reading. If you want to read about a second chance at love for characters who met in college but didn't reunite until ten years later, you can.
Capturing Clint
How about thirty-somethings who finally feel their lives are on track...except when it comes to relationships?
In a Flash
Or a woman on the cusp of forty, focused on college after serving her country, who's blindsided by love?
Rory's Christmas Angel
Then there's the couple married for twenty-five years who are looking to reignite their love-life.
Resort Virgins
My point is, there's a wealth of variety out there for readers no matter what your preference, so enjoy romance in all its forms and stages.
As always, happy reading! xo
Here are just a few of the wonderful authors I've come in contact with who write in this category:
Sandra Antonelli
Freya Barker
Karen Booth
Natasha Moore
Reese Ryan
Maggie Wells
What is seasoned romance? Well if you weren't already familiar with the designation, it's a romance story featuring the heroine/hero in their 30s and beyond. Some may argue a character in their 30s isn't "seasoned"; that they're still young and vital. Or that nobody wants to read about people in their 50s "getting it on". I argue that ANY character can be vital, youthful, and hold the starring role in a book, and that romance is more than "getting it on."
Although I'd been writing for many years, it wasn't until my late forties that I became serious about it and pursued publishing. And as a reader, I wasn't seeing many - if any - books at the time that centered on characters beyond their 20s. Sure, my writing contains those in that age range, but I wanted to write more of what I felt was a representation of where I was in life. I wanted to see more mature characters, so I started writing them. In fact my first published romance with Evernight Publishing, Second Time Love, features Grace, 50, and Cole 51; and it went on to become an award winning story.
Second Time Love
I continued to write about characters in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, and I started to notice more talk about seasoned romance. Terms were tossed about, such as mature romance/characters, older characters; and now Amazon even has a specific category called Later in Life Romance.
I was thrilled when I came across two marvelous groups on Facebook that centered around mature characters.
The Seasoned Romance Group as well as the group Romance in Her Prime.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/95831...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Roman...
Some ask what's the big deal about all this? Well, it is a big deal! Love, desire, passion, life doesn't stop at a certain age. And that's the beauty about the abundance of choices when it comes to reading. If you want to read about a second chance at love for characters who met in college but didn't reunite until ten years later, you can.
Capturing Clint
How about thirty-somethings who finally feel their lives are on track...except when it comes to relationships?
In a Flash
Or a woman on the cusp of forty, focused on college after serving her country, who's blindsided by love?
Rory's Christmas Angel
Then there's the couple married for twenty-five years who are looking to reignite their love-life.
Resort Virgins
My point is, there's a wealth of variety out there for readers no matter what your preference, so enjoy romance in all its forms and stages.
As always, happy reading! xo
