Laura M. Baird's Blog, page 21

September 1, 2019

Hello September!

Cooler days with continued sunshine are gracing us, and with Autumn drawing near, I'm ready to pull out my flannels and long sleeved shirts. Plus it's college football season and our team had it's first victory! Great way to start the season.
On the home front, our grandson made his entrance Friday morning and he couldn't be more precious! All is well, and son, mama, and baby are already home, settling in.

My writing finally took a good turn with finishing up a short story and submitting for consideration with Evernight Publishing. They also have their anthology call in which I'm hoping to finish that billionaire story and submit by or before the end of the month. It's filled with high-tension, snark, and steamy romance.

Friend and fellow author L. M. Spangler made a wonderful promotional video for my military romance. All sales are being donated to the organization Soldiers' Angels. You can view it at YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBW88...
Get to know Lynn and her fantastic books here... and be sure to look for mention of her upcoming release!
L.M. Spangler

And finally, if you aren't already following N.N.Light here or at the website, take the time to do so. There are wonderful reviews and recommendations, and all month long there's the Book-a-thon with a chance to win prizes.
N.N. Light
https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/

Until next time, enjoy life and happy reading! xo
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Published on September 01, 2019 14:53 Tags: authors, autumn, fall, family, romance, september

August 25, 2019

Ah, Sunday, we meet again!

It's a gorgeous SUN-day here with temps in the 70s, blue skies, and a burst of warmth to grace us next week as August comes to a close.
Any day now we should be welcoming our first grandchild; a baby from my baby! It's crazy and incredible!
And I'll have family visiting from back East in a few weeks; so looking forward to some "sister time" which includes at least one if not two trips to the coast. Love the beach!
I'm plugging away at my works-in-progress, and am hoping to start a new short story for an anthology call about billionaires. Rich playboy meets humble brainiac. An opposites-attract filled with snark and steam. Sound good? Let's hope so.
Hope your days are going wonderfully and your nights are filled love. ;) And if you're looking for a sexy read to heat up your night, be sure to check out Scoring the Player's Baby by Naima Simone.
Another great read I recently finished was A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer. What a fantastic and unique retelling of The Beauty and the Beast tale!
Scoring the Player's Baby
Naima Simone
A Curse So Dark and Lonely
Brigid Kemmerer

If you'd like a chance to win an eReader filled with steamy romances (including mine), check out this giveaway by Booksweeps:
https://booksweeps.com/book-giveaway/...
Love on the Line

As always, happy reading! xo
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Published on August 25, 2019 16:11 Tags: author, contest, family, giveaway, life, recommendations, romance

August 18, 2019

Somber Sunday

I feel the need to ramble, to let my thoughts come forth no matter what's on my mind... But I'll spare you from the mundane, inconsequential, or sporadic spewing.
I will say, as time goes on, I'm seeing more and more the full circle of life. I knew these moments would arise, but I had hoped for what we all wish for - more time. With my father gone for over nineteen years now, during that period, my mom's either lived with us or near us, remaining single, and dependent on me and hubby, as we're her closest relatives. Which really, I usually never minded, as I love my mom! We have our differences, but in the end, she's my mom.
I'll skip all the detailing of her decline and just say it's time for her to no longer drive. It's difficult, it plain sucks, and it's an admittance of her giving up a part of her freedom and independence. But for her safety and those around her, it's time. So now comes the part of her and I rearranging our schedules in order to compensate, which we'll get through.
On top of that, some other 'things' just weren't going as planned with one thing piling on top of another, and I felt overwhelmed and needed a break. Then I felt guilty for my feelings. But if I'm expected to continue to operate, as well as become caretaker to my mother, I certainly need to take care of me.
I hear it all the time; I even tell patients that as well. Take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
I sat down last night and poured out my emotions, and this is the result:

Stormy emotions~

her mind is a frenzy, her body sore
her screams are silent, rattling her core
her thoughts are scattered, her soul aches
her spirit weary, her heart about to break

the wind howls, whipping violently around
with feet planted, will she stay aground
the seas rage, battering the shore
can she herself stand much more

she does it all, trying to please
but who does for her, giving her burdens an ease
can she bend and not break, remaining strong
paste on a smile, showing nothing is wrong

her empathy is compassion, taking a toll
still she shines her light, knowing no other role
emotions eventually settle, her partner by her side
with peace and reflection, love will stem the tide

be selfish, be giving
balance is key
give joy, accept praise
as it’s meant to be

It was a way to express my thoughts and emotions, and vent. It didn't ease everything, but it helped. And I'm thankful for my husband, for his patience, support, and understanding. I guess after twenty-nine years, we've come to know one another pretty well. ;)

So at the end of my ramblings, what I leave you with is this (for whatever it's worth). Find a way to unburden yourself, to relieve whatever strain is in your life, in order to continue with sanity and strength. Because chances are YOU, reading this right now, do much more than many give you credit for! Find your outlet and be selfish at times, whether you write, read, knit, go to a movie, or take a walk... do for you.
Be sure to thank those in your life who offer support, and praise your loved ones who stand by your side.

Until next time, be happy! xo
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Published on August 18, 2019 16:16 Tags: author, life

August 12, 2019

I'm back! Did ya miss me? ;)

Two weeks and a day... and boy what a time I've had! Still trying to recover from a summer cold/allergy attack that's been lingering. But progress never stops, so I've been trying to be productive. Mostly that means catching up on reading because my mind wouldn't stay focused enough to get many words down.
Look to my recommendations/read list to see what I've been devouring... Donna Grant, Toni Anderson... can't ever go wrong with those two!
Dark Alpha's Redemption: A Reaper Novel
Cold & Deadly

I'm always working on promotion, looking for ways to get in front of readers; and my readers are a tremendous help and blessing when they spread the word about me and my books! So thank you! xo

This Saturday, 8/17 is the nationwide inaugural Bookstore Romance Day where Indie Bookstores are promoting the romance genre and its authors. While I won't be making an appearance at a particular bookstore, I was given the opportunity to bring in free swag for readers, which I hope they'll enjoy.
Plan to visit your local Indie Bookstore and support the wonderful world of Romancelandia!
You can learn more here:
https://bookstoreromanceday.org/

I've also had the opportunity to record an interview with The Authors Show, highlighting my military romance, "The Soldier's Final Mission". I discussed a bit about my journey, my book, and its sales going to support Soldiers' Angels, a charity that benefits deployed military, their families, and veterans.
You can listen here:
https://wnbnetworkwest.com/WnbAuthors...
The Soldier's Final Mission
And finally, just today, I recorded an in-person interview with a host local to my area in the Pacific Northwest. The air date will be coming, but if you're interested in other segments of Book Chat, you can check it out here:
https://alan-rose.com/bookchat/
We've got amazing and inspiring authors!

So now I'll say good night after catching you up!
As always, thanks for your support and happy reading!
Laura xo
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Published on August 12, 2019 21:40 Tags: author, blog, interview, podcast, reading, recommendations, romance

July 28, 2019

Sunday Funday!

It's a beautiful Sunday morning... and I'm inside catching up on chores, laundry, bills, and author life 'stuff'. But it's great! Hubby and I are chatting, laughing, and wondering what others would think if they could hear some of the things we say! ;)
Saturday was filled with excitement, starting with meeting Jill Sanders and her twin sister, Jody Luft. They were at a wonderful Indie Bookstore in my area of SW WA, where they're originally from. (And fun fact I discovered - they're family to former dental patients of mine!) What a small world!
The two ladies were so gracious, and talking with Jill was wonderful. She gave me insight on her publishing journey along with a recommendation for a promotional site. And when Jill Sanders (New York Times, USA Today, & International Bestselling Romance Author) says to hit her up on Facebook, you can dang sure bet I will!
I can say with chagrin that although I'd heard of her, I hadn't read any of her work. I'm changing that! I picked up her newest release, Summer Nights, and dove right in last night. I'm looking forward to the shenanigans of summer camp for snowbirds, run by former camp attendees.
Jill Sanders
Summer Nights

Jill and sister, Jody, are the writing duo of J. J. Anders, and I'll look forward to eventually diving into their fantasy world.
J.J. Anders

Our evening was then filled with fun at drag races, an event hubby and I love to attend.
So today I'll catch up with life's duties, get some writing in (hoping to finish a holiday novella within the next two weeks), and get out and enjoy the summer while it lasts!
Be sure to do the same.
And don't forget to get in on the contests I'm participating in where you can win books and prizes. Check out my website for more:
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Until next time, happy reading!
Laura xo
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Published on July 28, 2019 11:43 Tags: authors, books, reading, summer

July 21, 2019

It's a HOT one!

Hey everyone!
Hope you stayed cool as the heat of summer got into full swing. What better way to enjoy National Ice Cream Day than by being inside with a cool treat and a hot read.
I, myself, indulged in some Ben&Jerry's Americone Dream.
And speaking of hot reads, I've got recommendations for some sizzling authors, all from The Wild Rose Press. With a range of romance, you're sure to find something you'll enjoy, from sweet to high heat, and many award-winning stories.
You can also check out The Wild Rose Press on Facebook for more.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/86507...
Katie Baldwin
Kerry Blaisdell
Kristal Dawn Harris
Claire Marti
Mona Sedrak
Sadira Stone

And if you're looking to score some free reads, plus a chance to win a new eReader loaded with plenty of books, be sure to check out the contests page at my website. There's plenty going on, including a new giveaway starting tomorrow!
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
As always, thanks for your support, and happy reading! xo
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Published on July 21, 2019 18:47 Tags: author-recommendations, giveaways, romance, website

July 14, 2019

A double-whammy: Part II - author promotion

Hello again!
Here's my second short & sweet post, this one about author promotion... and ways our followers can show their support.
It's a necessary evil, and by that I mean, how else are readers going to find out about us if we don't tell them?
Is it conceit? Absolutely not. We're proud of our work and want the world to know it, so it's up to us - the authors - to find ways to gain exposure and get in front of readers.
Is it a time-suck? Absolutely! But hey, as is said, "that's the biz". ;)
Promotional strategies can differ from one author to another, but make no mistake, we work hard at it, and any chance we have to get our work out there, we'll usually take it. Like with these blogs, giving readers and followers insight and information about us and our work. It's called enticement! And of course we're all about supporting other authors, because, you know, good karma! We all need the lift.
Other ways range from buying a spot in a magazine for an interview or participating in a giveaway (yes, many of which we have to pay for, unless there are awesome FB groups that allow it. Our only cost is any prizes we want to award.). Ads, appearances, contests, and more all have their role... it all depends on our financial budget as well as our allowance for time.
A great resource we lean is our readers. We love reviews and word-of-mouth, and short of begging... okay, we often beg for reviews, praise, and that you tell your friends; but we want it to be genuine. And most definitely positive.
So this is me, humbly asking if you read a book, post a review. Something short and sweet and positive!
So to wrap up, thank you for your patience, your time, and your support!
As always, happy reading! xo
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Published on July 14, 2019 17:54 Tags: authors, promotion, reviews

A double-whammy: Part I - Introducing E. D. Parr & Serenity Snow

Hello, readers!
Today I've got two posts for you, but I'll keep them short and sweet. (Famous last words, right?) Promise! ;)

I'm spreading some author love by introducing you to E. D. Parr (aka Elodie Parkes) and Serenity Snow; two authors with an amazing list of titles from which you can choose an intriguing read.

E. D. Parr writes MM (Male/Male) Romance and has a quick and spicy new release from Evernight Publishing. You can find "Dear Heart" at all digital retailers.
E. D. Parr
Dear Heart
https://www.evernightpublishing.com/e...
And also look for her alter ego, Elodie Parkes.
Elodie Parkes

Next is Serenity Snow, who writes FF (Female/Female) Romance, with an upcoming new release in her Coyote Bound series, also with Evernight Publishing.
Serenity Snow
https://www.evernightpublishing.com/s...

Follow them here at Goodreads as well as Bookbub, peruse the many selections they have to offer, and happy reading!
xo
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Published on July 14, 2019 17:52 Tags: authors, evernight-publishing, ff-romance, gay-romance, lesbian-romance, mm-romance, romance

July 7, 2019

A late Sunday check-in

In my effort to have more consistency, here I am, doing a quick check in on this Sunday evening, wrapping up the weekend.
Ours was made up of a lot of property grooming in the form of taking down and thinning out trees. It feels good to accomplish that, knowing we're done for a while, and just need to burn the debris. I do love a good fire!
I made slow progress on my writing, but progress is progress. Throw in a little bit of promotion, a few workouts, and some great reading, which made for a good few days.
Our 4th celebration was pretty low-key, taking in some of our town's festivities, eating a great burger, and treating ourselves to ice cream. We skipped the craziness of the fireworks, instead stayed safely at home, watching "Always Be My Maybe" on Netflix. (Which was great, by the way!)
Hope your weekend was amazing and now you're recharged for the work week. ;)
If you follow my reviews, you'll see I read the latest in Robyn Peterman's Magic and Mayhem Universe, the story "Shifted" by R. L. Merrill. So great!! You'll laugh and swoon. If you haven't already, immerse yourself in her world.
Robyn Peterman
Shifted: Magic and Mayhem Universe
And finally, for my shameless promotion, be sure to visit my contests page and see the great giveaways you can enter. You could win books, gift cards, and even an eReader! Good luck!
https://www.laurambairdauthor.com/con...
Until next week, take care and happy reading!
Laura xo
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Published on July 07, 2019 19:09 Tags: authors, contests, reading, romance

June 30, 2019

Hello July! ...almost

Readers! Here we are, turning the corner toward the second half of the year. WOW! Luke Bryan has it right when he sings "the days go slow and years go fast". And I always chuckle when I remember a quote from an elderly patient of mine: "Life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer you get to the end the faster it goes." Words to ponder.. ;)
I hope you're making the most of your days, spending time with those who matter, creating wonderful memories.

On to my author news; there's much for me to tell, so settle in. Not only am I excited, but you should be too because YOU, the readers, can benefit.
First, kudos to me for finding my stride with my writing after a bit of a drought; and second, I'm working on plenty of promotion and events.
I'll be participating in several giveaways with Booksweeps, where you can get free reads, and win books and prizes! To see when these are running, follow my posts on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraMBairda...
Another month-long event is the Christmas in July Fete with the team of N. N. Light at https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/ch... where you can learn about Christmas themed books and win through their rafflecopter, so be sure to sign up if you aren't already.

An endeavor I'm passionate about is giving back. Whether I'm helping other authors and creatives by sharing their work and reviewing their books, or actually donating my services, time, money, or products, it's essential to create positivity to in turn receive it.
“It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others.”
― Dalai Lama XIV
With that said, I'm donating all of this years royalties of my military romance, "The Soldier's Final Mission" to charities and causes that help Veterans and Military personnel and families. Both hubby and I are former service members, and are proud to have served our country in some capacity. We've made wonderful connections and friends, and developed direction and discipline that carried over into our everyday lives.
I'll be posting more about the organizations to which I'm donating on my FB page, along with updates throughout the year.
I hope you'll spread the word as well as enjoy my read, knowing the proceeds are going to worthy causes! I'd like this to steamroll so that I may continue to do this indefinitely.
The Soldier's Final Mission

An easy way you can do more is contribute to the charity of your choice through Amazon. Simply go to and always purchase at https://smile.amazon.com There you can select from MANY worthy causes, and a portion of your purchases go to that organization. Thanks to the recommendation from a friend and former SpecOps member, I support the Task Force Dagger Foundation which provides assistance to wounded, ill, or injured US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) members and their families.
If you're looking for a worthy organization, and want to know their background and where their expenses go, look to https://www.charitynavigator.org/

I hope you stayed with me 'til the end! ;)
Until next time, thank you for your support, enjoy your time, and happy reading!
Laura xo
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Published on June 30, 2019 14:28 Tags: charities, contests, donations, giveaways, military, readers, romance, veterans