Sharon Wray's Blog, page 9

The Joy of Midsummer Gardens

Starting a Midsummer Garden (Yes, Even in the Heat!) That Will Take You Into Fall.

Just because the sun is blazing and the air feels like soup doesn’t mean gardening season is over. In fact, midsummer is a great time to start a new garden or refresh the one that’s flagging in the heat. With the right plants and a few smart strategies, you can grow a lush, productive garden that thrives through late summer and carries you well into fall.

[image error]

Here’s how to beat the heat and get planting, no matter your space or experience level.

How to Build a Midsummer Garden 1. Rethink the Season

When most people think “planting season,” they picture the cool freshness of spring. But many vegetables and flowers actually prefer being sown now for a late-season harvest. Plus, you’ll hit your stride just as pests are winding down and temperatures begin to mellow.

What you can plant now (depending on your zone):

Fast-growing veggies: Bush beans, zucchini, cucumbersFall favorites: Beets, carrots, radishes, kale, lettuce, Swiss chardHeat-lovers: Okra, eggplant, peppersHerbs: Basil, dill, cilantro (start cilantro mid to late August for fall harvest)

Check your seed packet’s “days to maturity” and count back from your area’s average first frost to see what still has time to grow.

2. Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants

If you’re dealing with blistering afternoons, go for plants that like the heat. Many summer flowers thrive when others wilt.

Try:

ZinniasMarigoldsCelosiaSunflowersGomphrenaSalvias

These blooms not only survive midsummer heat but also bring bold, lasting color well into fall.

3. Timing Is Everything

The key to midsummer planting success? Work with the sun, not against it.

Water deeply early in the morning or after sunset to reduce evaporation.Transplant or sow seeds in the evening, when the sun won’t stress them immediately.Use shade cloth, umbrellas, or even old bedsheets to protect tender seedlings during their first few days. 4. Prep the Soil (It’s Tired Too)

Summer soil can get compacted and dry. Give your garden a boost by:

Loosening the top few inches with a garden forkMixing in compost or aged manureMulching generously after planting to lock in moisture and reduce weeds 5. Attract Fall Pollinators

Want better vegetable yields and a buzzing garden well into September and October? Think ahead by adding pollinator-friendly plants like anise hyssop, goldenrod, and asters. They’ll bloom later in the season and support bees and butterflies as food sources dwindle.

6. Plan for Fall Transitions

As August fades into September, the cooling nights will be perfect for a second wave of cool-season crops.

Get ready to:

Succession plant spinach, lettuce, and arugula every 2–3 weeksStart brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage) from seed indoors in late July or early AugustPlant garlic and shallots in October for next year’s harvestFinal Thoughts

Gardening in midsummer takes a little extra care, but the payoff is big. Not only will your garden stay vibrant when others start to fade, you’ll also extend your growing season and enjoy fresh flowers and produce long after Labor Day.

So grab a hat, fill your watering can, and don’t let the thermometer scare you off. The best part of the garden year might just be starting.

Sarah Munro’s Mint Toner

The summer heat keeps on coming. And since I’m always looking for ways to cool down, I decided to make this Mint Toner with witch hazel, fresh mint leaves, and peppermint essential oil. This toner is a great way to cool and hydrate hot, sun-irritated skin. I use it after my bath or shower, and this time of year, it’s easy to find fresh mint and witch hazel at grocery stores. But if you can’t find it, I also buy my organic herbs and other ingredients from Mountain Rose Herbs.

For those of you new to this series, Sarah Munro, the heroine in ONE DARK WISH, the second book in the Deadly Force series, is an 18th century historian who inherited a collection of colonial-era herbal and homeopathic remedies. And in this blog space, I’ve been sharing her recipes with you all. I’m adding this recipe to this collection because some studies have shown that fresh mint can soothe redness (it has anti-inflammatory properties) and can refresh the skin. Witch Hazel, also an anti-inflammatory, can reduce puffiness and can ease the itch of bug bites. It’s also an astringent and can help tighten pores.

Note: I am not an affiliate of Mountain Rose Herbs. I just love their website and buy most of my herbs and other special ingredients from them.

Ingredients:

3 Tablespoons fresh mint, chopped1 cup witch hazel2 drops essential peppermint oil[image error]Directions for Mint TonerSterilize a 2-quart glass mason jar with a tight-fitting, 2-part lid.In the jar, stir together the mint leaves and witch hazel. Shake and place the jar in a cool, dry cabinet and allow it to sit for a week.After a week, strain the leaves and witch hazel into a clean, sterilized mason jar and throw out the leaves. Stir in 2 drops of peppermint essential oil. Mix well.To use: Use a spray bottle of a cotton square to apply the toner to your skin.Store the jar in a cool, dark cabinet for up to 1 month. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING , AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:

I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).

It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.

If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.

Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.

Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.

Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.

Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.

I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Pimiento Deviled Eggs

I’ve been traveling most of the summer, planning a family reunion, attending weddings, and visiting my daughter’s new home. But when I’m asked to bring an appetizer or something to add to a dinner party, Pimiento Deviled Eggs is one of my go-to recipes. It’s easy and everyone loves them (unless they hate eggs). Anyway, I hope you all have a great weekend and are staying cool! I am struggling with the heat this year so I am literally counting the days until Halloween!

KINGSMILL REHEARSAL DINNER MENU SERIES

Welcome to my Kingsmill Rehearsal Dinner Menu series inspired by the fictional wedding celebration in my two new stories, A Room with a Groom (from Save the Date Anthology) and Luke’s Last Love Kiss (from Finding Forever Anthology). This blog series brings the charm of small-town Kingsmill to your summer table. 

Both love stories unfold in the heart of the Virginia mountains, and each features a rehearsal dinner held near the town’s historic 18th-century mill, along the Shenandoah River. For the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing the seasonal recipes from that riverside celebration and today’s recipe is Pimiento Deviled Eggs.

PrintPimiento Deviled EggsCourse AppetizerPrep Time 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutesServings 24 EggsIngredients12 large eggs¼ cup pimento cheese (I use store bought)¼ cup mayonnaise1 Tablespoon dijon mustard¼ teaspoon garlic powderdash Worcestershire sauceKosher salt and pepper3 Tablespoons freshly snipped chivesFresh dill for garnishPaprika for garnishInstructionsTo boil the eggs, fill a large pot with cold water. Place the eggs into the water and bring water to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, turn off the heat, and put the lid on the pot. Let the pot sit for 20 minutes. Drain the pot and fill it with cold water and let it sit for another 30 minutes. Drain the eggs, dry, and peel them. Set the peeled eggs aside so they dry thoroughly.Slice the eggs in half lengthwise. Gently remove the yolks and place in a large bowl. Put the egg white halves on a platter and put in the fridge to chill until the filling is ready.In the egg yolk bowl, stir in the pimiento cheese, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Using a hand mixer, blend the egg yolk mixture until smooth. (or you can do this in a food processor) Then stir in the fresh chives and season with more salt and pepper, if desired. Spoon or pipe the egg yolk mixture into the open egg whites. Garnish with fresh dill or paprika, whichever you prefer. Chill eggs until ready to serve.

Stock Up for Spontaneous Picnics, Storms & Sweet Nights In

Summer may be the season of spontaneity, but it’s also storm season. And sometimes the coziest moments happen when the lights go out, the rain rolls in, or the sunset calls for a last-minute picnic under the stars. That’s why I love having a pantry stocked with a few simple (but romantic!) staples that serve in multiple ways. They must be easy to prep, easy to love, and perfect whether you’re entertaining friends or hiding (with the dog) from thunder with a paperback and a lantern.

So let’s build a Summer Pantry with Heart… and chocolate. Oh, and while you refresh the food in the pantry, it’s also a nice time to do a bit of cleaning.

Prep Your Summer Pantry 1. Picnic-Ready Staples (That Also Survive a Power Outage)

Stock up on ingredients that don’t need refrigeration and can be tossed into a basket or a blanket fort with zero prep.

Crackers & flatbreads – Rosemary, sea salt, multigrain, or fig-infused for flairShelf-stable cheeses – Think wax-sealed Gouda or individually wrapped BabybelsCured meats – Salami, pepperoni, prosciutto (vacuum-sealed varieties work well)Olives & pickled veggies – Briny bites that elevate any boardNuts & dried fruits – Almonds, apricots, figs, or tart cherriesDesserts – Your favorite shelf-stable cookies or even chocolate protein barsDrinks – While water is nice in the summer, it can get boring. Powdered drink mixes are not only shelf stable, they can help you drink more and stay hydrated even if the power goes out.

Keep a small charcuterie emergency kit, including a cutting board, knife, plastic utensils and cups, and napkins in your pantry or picnic tote!

2. Sweet Bites for Soft Nights

When the air is thick and the fans are humming, a little sweet treat goes a long way.

Chocolate bars (dark + milk) – Just don’t store them near a window!Mini marshmallows – For cocoa, s’mores, or snacking straight from the bagGraham crackers + peanut butter or Nutella – Nostalgia meets indulgenceFruit cups or canned peaches – Especially good chilled or served over ice cream

Want to turn your pantry snack into a summer moment? Add twinkle lights and your favorite romance novel. Or make S’mores over an open flame.

3. Cozy Comforts for Stormy Weather

When thunder crashes, you want to be wrapped in safety with something delicious in your cup and on your plate.

Shelf-stable soups – Tomato basil, creamy potato, or lentil with herbsInstant risotto or couscous packs – Add hot water or stovetop heat if you have itTea, cocoa, and instant coffee – Bonus points for vanilla or lavender flavorsCanned pasta or beans – Minimal prep, maximum comfort

Don’t forget candles, matches, and a favorite mug. And maybe a playlist or book that pairs well with the sound of rain.

4. A Few Fridge-Free Luxuries

These little extras go a long way in making any night feel intentional and special.

Jarred pesto or bruschetta topping – Instant upgrade to bread or pastaHoney or artisan jams – Spread on crackers, toast, or fruitSparkling water, lemonade concentrate, or canned spritzers – For refreshing sips in the sun or by candlelightIce cream bars or fruit sorbet – While it’s sad for the ice cream when the power goes out, it’s fun to eat frozen treats on the hottest days of the year. Final Tip: Rotate with the Season

What makes your summer pantry magical is not just the food. It’s how easily it turns any moment into something a little more intentional. A picnic on the porch, a dinner during a blackout, or a surprise guest on a warm evening. Refresh it each month with new finds or seasonal flavors, and always keep one or two “just because” treats. Because whether it’s a planned picnic or an unexpected night in, your pantry can help make summer a little more delicious and a lot more romantic.

July Book Fairs & Reading Events Part 2

I can’t believe that July is almost over. In fact, I’m shocked. Luckily, I still have a vacations to take so today I’m filling up my e-reader with lots of free/on sale books for you to add to your TBR list. Today’s post has tons of free and .99 books and free reading events for every type of romance reader, all guaranteed to make your summer dreams come true.

1Smashwords July Sale

It’s time for the summer Smashwords sale which includes thousands of authors and books on sale and free. This sale includes my Deadly Force novel Love’s Last Kiss which is now on sale for .99!

2Contemporary Romances

This collection includes free and sale novels and novellas from most contemporary romance genres, including billionaire romances, sports romances, sexy cowboys, and steamy contemporaries, including a wedding themed collection called Finding Forever which makes a perfect beach read.

3The Isn’t it Romantic Book Club Group Monthly Livestream

The Isn’t It Romantic Book Club Group will be live-streaming on Thursday, July 31th at 3 pm EST while we interview
Naima Simone and her romance novel Church Girl! It’ll be live-streamed on our YouTube channel and we hope you’ll join us there!

4Boxed Sets & Anthologies

This collection includes sexy sports romances, steamy contemporary romances, paranormal romances, romantasy, Mafia romances, billionaires, sexy shifter cowboys, and dark romances.

Free Books for July In Moonlight and Memories by Julie Ann Walker

An epic story about sacrifice, friendship, and the awe-inspiring power of love.

Maggie: Ten years ago, Cash Armstrong stole my heart. Then he promptly joined the army—dragging my best friend with him—and left me crying on the front porch in a red sequined prom dress. Now he’s back. They’re both back. Cash, the one who still has my heart. And Luc, the one who saved my life.

Cash: How do you know if you’re at the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end? That’s what I’ve been trying to figure out since a traumatic brain injury made me “unfit to serve.” I’m back in New Orleans, and picking up the shattered pieces of my past means I must confront where my life’s journey began… and where it all might end.

Luc: Long ago, Maggie May was mine. Not mine in the way you might think. She was mine because she was my only friend. Then Cash came along and we became brothers by something stronger than blood. We became brothers by choice. When tragedy struck, I was forced to make a decision that changed all our lives. I thought, after ten years, it was safe to come back home. I was wrong…

Free for the month of July! In Paradise with Someone Like Him by Susanna Eastman

When Charity Daniels was seventeen she fell in love with Literature, and a man who taught it. Their forbidden love was held back until graduation, until legally she could be his. Flash forward three years, Charity is studying at Yale and still in love with her Princeton Man.

Quinn (Q) Everett is on scholarship at Yale, and finds himself inexplicably in Charity’s path. He tries to stay away, but his mouthy best friend thinks he knows better. Suddenly it’s lunches and crashing private plans for the duo just to see her. But their flirtations do not go unseen, and Logan’s love turns and goes from jealousy to murderous intent.

Can these unproven lovers stay the course and avoid the devious plot of a scorn man or will everything crash and burn?
Trigger warning: Violence & Strong Sexual Situations

Get it for free now! Alaska Wild by Lolo Paige

What happens before that fateful day where Tara and Ryan collide on the Montana fire that leads them both to Alaska, in Alaska Spark? Read their origin story to find out!

Read what happens before Tara and Ryan meet up in Alaska Spark!

Ryan O’Connor’s hotshot fire crew pulls out all the stops to save a trapped family in a Southern California firestorm. But when his crew is unable to reach them in time, Ryan considers the loss a personal failure. He decides to apply and train with the Delta Force of wildland fire—the Alaska Smokejumpers. If Ryan can survive the ball-busting training, his life will be on a new trajectory…one that could lead him to the woman of his dreams. Tara Waters loves being a wildland firefighter and has worked hard to prove herself capable. But when a hunky Missoula smokejumper aims his parachute at Tara, her worlds collide when her father dooms the relationship to fail. The path she then chooses will set a new course..toward a wildfire with searing flames she’s powerless to fight.

Get it for free now! MisGiving Hearts by J. Haney & S.I. Hayes

When Charity Daniels was seventeen she fell in love with Literature, and a man who taught it. Their forbidden love was held back until graduation, until legally she could be his. Flash forward three years, Charity is studying at Yale and still in love with her Princeton Man.

Quinn (Q) Everett is on scholarship at Yale, and finds himself inexplicably in Charity’s path. He tries to stay away, but his mouthy best friend thinks he knows better. Suddenly it’s lunches and crashing private plans for the duo just to see her. But their flirtations do not go unseen, and Logan’s love turns and goes from jealousy to murderous intent.

Can these unproven lovers stay the course and avoid the devious plot of a scorn man or will everything crash and burn?
Trigger warning: Violence & Strong Sexual Situations

Get it for free now! How to Unbreak a Heart by Jennie Marts

Solitary cowboy, Trip Turner walked out on the love of his life twelve years ago, breaking her heart and landing in juvenile detention. Now he’s back in Saddle Creek, Montana, at the dude ranch for wayward teens, where his mentor, John Stone, taught him the rules of how to become a man. But a tragedy has reminded Trip he failed to follow one of those rules. And it could have been the most important one of all. Bre Wilson had moved on with her life—she has a successful veterinary practice, and she’s put all thoughts of Trip Turner, the boy she’d planned to spend the rest of her life with, behind her. Or so she thought. Because he’s back, and no longer a boy. Now he’s a hot-as-hell man, and she has to spend the next two weeks working by his side without either kissing him or killing him. Trip let Bre go once, he won’t do it again. He has a second chance to fix the mistakes he made all of those years ago, and this time he’s following the rules. He just needs to figure out how to unbreak her heart. 

Get it for free now! Risking Trust by Adrienne Giordano

Michael Taylor is cooler than ice. As CEO of a private security company, his job means protecting those at risk. But now Michael is the one in trouble—he’s the prime suspect in his ex-wife’s murder. To prove his innocence, he needs not just a few good men, but one smart woman.

Get it for free now! Viper by Susie McIver

A No-Love Rule Shattered Under One Roof.

Cole’s return home after four years in an Iranian prison was meant to bring solace, but fate had other plans for the man better known as Viper. 

Enter the mysterious woman living in solitude, pursued by a relentless stalker. Unable to stand by, Viper sweeps into her life, proposing a fake engagement to silence the nosy people in their small mountain town after insisting she move in with him.

Bailey’s cabin was meant to be a refuge from her tormenter, not an unexpected detour into a stranger’s world. 

However, her initial resistance of Viper taking charge begins to crumble as sparks fly and their limited shared space awakens dormant desires. And while she feels safe for the first time in too long, he poses a different challenge to her guarded heart. Their undeniable attraction and the heat from just a simple touch leaves them both perilously close to shattering their resolve to avoid love. The question is: will they surrender to their yearning, or can they find a way to defy the odds?

Get it for free now!

The post July Book Fairs & Reading Events Part 2 first appeared on Sharon Wray.

Romantic Suspense Tropes for Summer

Summer is the season of sunburns, secrets, and swoon-worthy suspense. Whether you’re lounging poolside or curled up in the hammock with a cold drink and a dog-eared paperback, there’s something magical about romantic suspense in midsummer. The long days heighten the tension, the sultry nights stir emotions, and the risk of danger makes falling in love feel even more urgent.

Here are five of my favorite romantic suspense tropes, each paired with a novel that embodies the heat, danger, and heartbreak of a good summer thriller—with a shameless mention of one of my current novellas.

Summer is Made for Suspense 1. Trapped Together

Trope Overview: Two characters are stuck together with no escape thanks to a storm, remote location, wildfire, or crisis. Emotions rise, secrets spill, and sparks fly.

Book Recommendation: A Room with a Groom by Sharon Wray (novella currently in the Save the Date Limited Edition Wedding Anthology)

Why It Fits: Ben Mosby, a former member of an outlaw motorcycle club, has given his heart to Sophie Sinclair, the only woman he’s ever loved. But on the eve of their wedding, a rival outlaw MC roars back, carrying a violent grudge. With forest fires raging and outlaw bikers chasing them, Ben and Sophie end up in a desperate fight for survival when they seek refuge in an isolated cabin. 

2. Road Trip Romance

Trope Overview: Forced onto the road with a mission and a partner they may not trust, characters battle internal conflict, external danger, and detours that change everything.
Book Recommendation: Cover of Night by Linda Howard
Why It Fits: A widow and her children become pawns in a dangerous game after a quiet boarding house in a small Idaho town is taken hostage. Her mysterious neighbor becomes her only hope, and their escape leads them on a high-stakes run-for-your-life road trip. It’s suspenseful, romantic, and has that summer survival edge.

3. A Stranger Appears

Trope Overview: A mysterious figure arrives in town or reappears from the past. Their true intentions are murky, but their connection to the protagonist is undeniable.
Book Recommendation: Kill Me Twice by Roxanne St. Clair (Bullet Catchers Series)
Why It Fits: This classic romantic suspense novel features an undercover agent who appears in a woman’s life under mysterious circumstances. There’s danger, secrets, sizzling chemistry, and a “who is this man, and why do I want to trust him?” vibe. While not explicitly summer-set, it has that sultry Miami and Key West, adrenaline-fueled tone that feels hot and intense.

4. The Secret That Won’t Stay Buried

Trope Overview: A long-buried secret surfaces, threatening everything the characters thought they knew and pulling them deeper into danger and each other’s arms.
Book Recommendation: The Disappearance of Vanessa Shaw by Sarra Cannon
Why It Fits: A chilling YA psychological thriller set at a secluded river cabin where Vanessa disappeared a year ago after one last party, the summer before senior year. Now her closest friends must return, each guarding secrets that may reveal who really wanted her gone. As tension mounts and motives unravel, no one leaves until the truth is unearthed.

5. The Countdown

Trope Overview: There’s a deadline: a festival, a wedding, a storm, a killer on the loose. The hero and heroine must solve the mystery and confront their emotions… before time runs out.
Book Recommendation: Don’t Look Now by Mary Burton
Why It Fits: This novel features a tight countdown timeline as a Homicide Detective teams up with a Texas Ranger to stop a serial killer targeting women. With the heat pressing in and each murder coming closer together, there’s a relentless ticking-clock urgency. The romance between the leads builds under pressure, with emotional tension rising as the case escalates

The post Romantic Suspense Tropes for Summer first appeared on Sharon Wray.

My Midsummer Writing Slump

We’re officially in the thick of summer. The novelty of June has worn off, July is dragging its humid feet, and the shimmer of all my creative ideas is fading. If you’re anything like me, the words are harder to find, and the distractions (mid-afternoon naps, last-minute travel, and grilled fresh veggies) are louder than ever. I call this time my Midsummer Writing Slump, an uninvited guest who shows up somewhere between holiday fireworks and back-to-school ads. A guest I am desperate to evict before all my story ideas disappear.

But don’t worry, if you suffer from midsummer slump like I do, this isn’t a sign that your writing muse has packed up and left for the season. Slumps like this are natural. We’ve hit the midpoint of the year when our creative projects feels like quicksand. While I try to fight this slump by celebrating Summerween (IYKYK), I have some other ideas about how to survive—and even thrive—during this slower, hotter, sometimes messier creative stretch. The reason I really pay attention to my slumps is that I know if I don’t slow down and care for my creative self now, burnout is not far behind.

Midsummer Writing Slumps Why the Summer Slump HappensDisrupted Routines – Kids are home, travel plans are constant, and normal schedules are tossed out the window.Mental Burnout – You’ve been pushing hard all year. Maybe you hit deadlines earlier in the year or tackled big goals in spring. Our brains, and emotions, need a break but deadlines loom.Midpoint Fatigue – You’ve started your book or creative project strong, but the middle is always a challenge. Summer often amplifies that frustration. Ways to Reclaim Your Creative Flow

1. Embrace Micro-Writing Sessions
Forget the 2,000-word marathons. Instead, aim for 10–15 minutes a day. A paragraph here, a bit of dialogue there all add up. Think of it as “creative hydration” during the dry season.

2. Change Your Scenery
Write outside. Journal at a café. Write or dictate notes on your phone during a walk. Even if it’s hot, a change in location can revive your focus.

3. Use Summer’s Sensory Details
If you’re struggling with plot, write a scene dripping with summer. Include the feel of humid air on skin, the sting of sunburn, the taste of peaches. Let the season inspire your setting and mood.

4. Try a Side Project
Sometimes a break from your “main” project helps. Sketch out a short story idea, revisit an old idea with no pressure, or even outline a blog post (like this one!). That’s why I love writing for anthologies. They give me permission to write in another series that doesn’t have the same kinds of deadlines as my traditional work.

5. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Seriously. If your creativity is whispering instead of shouting, listen. Rest is not laziness. Rest is necessary for long-term productivity.

You’re Not Alone

The midsummer slump affects writers at all stages. It doesn’t mean you’re not dedicated, talented, or hardworking. It means you’re human, and this season, like any other, brings its own rhythm. Lean into that rhythm, whether it looks like writing 500 words or just imagining a character on your morning walk.

A Creative Check-In

Grab a notebook, your favorite beverage, and answer these questions. What has surprised you creatively so far this year? What goals still light you up when you think about them? What small steps can you take in July and August that will set you up for a strong fall?

The post My Midsummer Writing Slump first appeared on Sharon Wray.

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Peach Crostini

I love peaches and now that they are in season, this is one of my favorite appetizers to make… or sometimes it just becomes my meal. I hope you all have a great weekend and are staying cool! We’re halfway through summer which makes me sad, but I am so ready for colder days.

KINGSMILL REHEARSAL DINNER MENU SERIES

Welcome to my Kingsmill Rehearsal Dinner Menu series inspired by the fictional wedding celebration in my two new stories, A Room with a Groom (from Save the Date Anthology) and Luke’s Last Love Kiss (from Finding Forever Anthology). This blog series brings the charm of small-town Kingsmill to your summer table. 

Both love stories unfold in the heart of the Virginia mountains, and each features a rehearsal dinner held near the town’s historic 18th-century mill, along the Shenandoah River. For the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing the seasonal recipes from that riverside celebration and today’s recipe uses peaches, my favorite summer fruit for Peach Crostini

PrintPeach CrostiniThis recipe is so easy to make and sometimes, if I'm in a good mood, I'll grill the peaches. But usually I just grill the breads and that's enough. Also, this recipe calls for balsamic glaze and my favorite brand is Colavita Balsamic Glaze and you can find it at Costco, BJs, Walmart, etc. It's much easier than making your own and tastes delicious.Course AppetizerPrep Time 20 minutes minutesCook Time 10 minutes minutesServings 16Calories 180kcalIngredients16 baguette slices2 Tablespoons olive oil4 ounces thinly sliced pancetta1 cup whole milk ricotta1 Tablespoon honey2 large peaches thinly sliced (unpeeled)1/4 cup balsamic glaze1/4 cup thinly sliced basilInstructionsPreheat the grill. Then lightly brush both sides of the bread with olive oil and set aside.Once the grill is hot, grill the bread for 1-2 minutes on each side until brown and crispy…. but not burned. Move the bread to a plate and set aside. In a skillet on the stove, over medium heat, cook the pancetta for 3-5 minutes or until it's crispy. Then drain the pancetta on plates lined with paper towels and set aside.In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta and honey. Then spread 1 Tablespoon of the smooth honey-ricotta onto each baguette slice. If there's extra cheese, just divide it between the breads.Place a few slices of peached on each bread and place the pancetta evenly over the top of every baguette slice. Drizzle the tops with the balsamic glaze. Then garnish with the basil and serve immediately.

The post The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Peach Crostini first appeared on Sharon Wray.

Prepping for Heatwaves

A few months ago we discussed building a Family Emergency Binder and a Family Emergency Plan. Then, a few weeks ago, I wrote a post about what to do in case of power outages and wildfires. Those posts discuss about how to protect your family from disasters and how to rebuild your life after an emergency. But now that we’re in midsummer, the heatwaves haven’t let up.

Summer can be a season of beauty—long days, barbecues, fireflies—but when the temperature spikes, it can quickly become dangerous. Heatwaves are one of the deadliest natural hazards in the United States, affecting thousands each year. And while they can strike almost anywhere, not everyone knows how to prepare for them or how to respond when extreme heat hits home. This post isn’t about panic. It’s about practical, proactive preparation. Whether you’re staying local, traveling, or helping others get ready, here’s a round-up of reliable, expert guidance to help you stay cool, stay safe, and stay informed.

How to Prepare for and Deal with Heatwaves What Is a Heatwave?

A heatwave is typically defined as a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. The threshold varies by region, but the impact is often the same—dangerous conditions that can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even death if not addressed.

Before a Heatwave: How to Prepare

Since preparation is your best defense, here is a list of trusted resources to start with:

CDC Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide This site offers symptoms of heat-related illness, tips on home safety, and guidelines for staying cool. Ready.gov Heatwave Prep This site covers how to prepare your home, what to do if the power goes out, and how to check on neighbors. National Weather Service (NWS) Heat Safety Tips Get real-time heat alerts and learn how to interpret Heat Index values and advisories. AirNow.gov This is the home of the U.S. Air Quality index that tracks air heat and air quality.

Easy Checklist Before the Heat Hits:

Install or service your air conditioning units or fansCreate a go-kit in case of power loss or forces evacuationIdentify local cooling centers (libraries, malls, community centers)Stock up on bottled water, electrolyte drinks, and cooling towelsTalk to family members about safety plans, especially vulnerable loved ones During a Heatwave: What To DoStay indoors during peak heat hours (10 am – 4 pm)Drink water regularly and DO NOT WAIT until you’re thirstyWear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colorsTake cool showers or baths to lower your body tempAvoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy mealsUse fans wisely. If temps are above 95°F and humidity is high, fans may circulate hot air rather than cool you off.

If you must go outside:

Schedule outdoor work early or late in the dayDrink water all day longWear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hatRest often in the shade and stay hydrated

 Know the Signs: CDC’s Rundown on Heat Related Illnesses

Heat Exhaustion: Dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, weaknessHeat Stroke: Confusion, fainting, rapid pulse, no sweating—this is a medical emergency. Call 911.

Vulnerable Populations National Weather Service’s Health and Heat Tracker

Children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and pets are especially vulnerable during heatwaves. This tool identifies at-risk populations and tracks heat-related health concerns by region. According to the NEWS, “NWS HeatRisk is supplementary to official NWS heat watches, warnings, and advisories. It provides guidance for decision makers and those who are sensitive to heat. Pet Safety Tips

Humane World for Animals has a great rundown on to keep pets safe in the heat. Below are a few of the basic tips:

Never leave pets in carsKeep them indoors in cool areasEnsure water is always availableWalk them early or late in the day Community Cooling & Local SupportFind a Cooling Center:
Many cities open public buildings during heatwaves. Check with your local emergency management office or community health department.Local Assistance:
If you’re struggling with utility bills or A/C costs, contact LIHEAP – the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. After the Heat Breaks

Once the temperatures drop:

Check on neighbors, especially seniorsRehydrate and restInspect your home and appliances for any heat-related damageReflect on what worked well and what could be improved for next time Save & Share This Resource

Heatwaves aren’t going away—and in many regions, they’re getting worse. Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or new to emergency planning, I hope this list helps you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.

The post Prepping for Heatwaves first appeared on Sharon Wray.

A Romance Writer’s Favorite Beach Reads

Not every beach read needs to be brand new. Some stories become seasonal rituals, like the familiar smell of sunscreen or the first bite of a boardwalk funnel cake. Whether it’s the setting, the romance, or just the feeling of being swept away, these books are trusted travel companions, beloved for their warmth, wit, and just the right amount of drama. Below is a list of perennial beach favorites. Some are nostalgic, some quirky, and all are unforgettable.

All book blurbs courtesy of Amazon (I am not an affiliate so there are no affiliate links in this post).

Contemporary Women’s FictionSummer Sisters by Judy Blume

A nostalgic look at a complicated friendship that begins one magical summer on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s wistful, emotionally layered, and perfect for readers who love stories about how people grow apart and sometimes together again.

AMAZON BLURB:

In the summer of 1977, Victoria Leonard’s world changes forever when Caitlin Somers chooses her as a friend. Dazzling, reckless Caitlin welcomes Vix into the heart of her sprawling, eccentric family, opening doors to a world of unimaginable privilege, sweeping her away to vacations on Martha’s Vineyard, an enchanting place where the two friends become “summer sisters.”
 
Now, years later, Vix is working in New York City. Caitlin is getting married on the Vineyard. And the early magic of their long, complicated friendship has faded. But Caitlin begs Vix to come to her wedding, to be her maid of honor. And Vix knows that she will go—because she wants to understand what happened during that last shattering summer. And, after all these years, she needs to know why her best friend—her summer sister—still has the power to break her heart.

Women’s FictionThe Shell Seekers by Rosamund Pilcher

A sweeping, multigenerational story set in the English countryside and the Cornish coast. Full of family secrets, second chances, and beautiful prose. A big book that pairs well with a long vacation and iced tea.

AMAZON BLURB:

At the end of a long and useful life, Penelope Keeling’s prized possession is The Shell Seekers, painted by her father, and symbolizing her unconventional life, from bohemian childhood to wartime romance.

When her grown children learn their grandfather’s work is now worth a fortune, each has an idea as to what Penelope should do. But as she recalls the passions, tragedies, and secrets of her life, she knows there is only one answer…and it lies in her heart.

women’s FictionSavannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews

Southern charm, vintage treasures, and a mystery with romantic undertones. Mary Kay Andrews is a queen of the beach bag, and this one is a fan favorite for its sassy heroine and steamy Georgia setting.

AMAZON BLURB:

If you think you know Savannah, think again . . .

Landing a catch like Talmadge Evans III encouraged Eloise “Weezie” Foley to buy a gem of a townhouse in Savannah’s historic district. Divorcing Tal got her exiled to the backyard carriage house, where she’s launched a spite-fest with Tal’s new fiancé, the elegant Caroline DeSantos.

An antiques picker, Weezie combs Savannah’s steamy back alleys and garage sales for treasures when she’s not dealing with her loopy relatives or her hunky ex-boyfriend. But an unauthorized sneak preview at a sale lands Weezie smack in the middle of magnolia-scented murder, mayhem . . . and more. Dirty deals simmer all around her, just as her relationship with the hottest chef in town heats up and she finds out how delicious love can be the second time around.

women’s fictionThe Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand

Not her most famous, but many Hilderbrand fans quietly rank this among her best. A Nantucket restaurant, a mysterious chef, and a romance with an expiration date—it’s got everything a summer escape needs.

AMAZON BLURB:

Adrienne Dealey has spent the past six years working for hotels in exotic resort towns. This summer she has decided to make Nantucket home.

Left flat broke by her ex-boyfriend, she is desperate to earn some fast money. When the desirable Thatcher Smith, owner of Nantucket’s hottest restaurant, is the only one to offer her a job, she wonders if she can get by with no restaurant experience.

Thatcher gives Adrienne a crash course in the business…and they share an instant attraction. But there is a mystery about their situation: what is it about Fiona, the Blue Bistro’s chef, that captures Thatcher’s attention again and again? And why does such a successful restaurant seem to be in its final season before closing its doors for good? Despite her uncertainty, Adrienne must decide whether to open her heart for the first time, or move on, as she always does.

contemporary romanceOn Mystic Lake by Kristin Hannah

One of her earlier works and often overlooked, this quiet and redemptive story explores love, loss, and renewal in a small lakeside town. Bittersweet and deeply romantic.

AMAZON BLURB:

Annie Colwater’s only child has just left home for school abroad. On that same day, her husband of twenty years confesses that he’s in love with a younger woman. Alone in the house that is no longer a home, Annie comes to the painful realization that for years she has been slowly disappearing. Lonely and afraid, she retreats to Mystic, the small Washington town where she grew up, hoping that there she can reclaim the woman she once was—the woman she is now desperate to become again.

In Mystic, she is reunited with her first love, Nick Delacroix, a recent widower unable to cope with his grieving, too-silent six-year-old daughter, Izzie. Together, the three of them begin to heal, and, at last, Annie learns that she can love without losing herself. But just when she has found a second chance at happiness, her life is turned upside down again, and Annie must make a choice no woman should have to make. . . .

Contemporary Women’s Memoir A Year by the Sea by Joan Anderson

Part memoir, part meditation on what it means to rediscover yourself. Not a novel, but an enduring favorite among women’s fiction readers who love introspection and coastal settings.

AMAZON BLURB:

Life is a work in progress, as ever-changing as a sandy shoreline along the beach. During the years Joan Anderson was a loving wife and supportive mother, she had slowly and unconsciously replaced her own dreams with the needs of her family. With her sons grown, however, she realized that the family no longer centered on the home she provided, and her relationship with her husband had become stagnant. Like many women in her situation, Joan realized that she had neglected to nurture herself and, worse, to envision fulfilling goals for her future.

As her husband received a wonderful job opportunity out-of-state, it seemed that the best part of her own life was finished. Shocking both of them, she refused to follow him to his new job and decided to retreat to a family cottage on Cape Cod. At first casting about for direction, Joan soon began to take pleasure in her surroundings and call on resources she didn’t realize she had. Over the course of a year, she gradually discovered that her life as an “unfinished woman” was full of possibilities. Out of that magical, difficult, transformative year came A Year by the Sea, a record of her experiences and a treasury of wisdom for readers.

Contemporary women’s fictionThe Beach House by Mary Alice Monroe

Sea turtles, mother-daughter bonds, and a second chance at love. Set on the South Carolina coast, this series-starter captures both the fragility and the resilience of coastal life.

AMAZON BLURB:

Twenty years ago, Caretta Rutledge left her Southern roots far behind for a successful career as a businesswoman in Chicago. But an unusual request from her mother—coming just as her own life is spinning out of control—has Cara heading back to the scenic Lowcountry of her childhood summers.

Before long, the rhythms of the island open her heart as she repairs the family beach house, becomes a bona fide “turtle lady” and renews old acquaintances long thought lost. But it is in reconnecting with her mother that she will learn life’s most precious lessons—true love involves sacrifice, family is forever and the mistakes of the past can be forgiven.

contemporary women’s fictionFirefly Beach by Luanne Rice

Emotional and luminous, this novel about love, grief, and sisters returning to their childhood beach house tugs all the right heartstrings, ideal for fans of slow-burning emotional journeys.

AMAZON BLURB:

Coolly sophisticated and steadfastly single, Caroline Renwick has always been the sister everyone could count on. As she and Clea and Skye gathered at Firefly Hill, their childhood home, Caroline thought that they had all put the past behind them. But as summer gets under way, a mysterious man arrives—a man who has the power to bring it all back….

Joe Connor was only six when his father died at Firefly Hill. Though he and Caroline had never met, the five-year-old girl reached out to him. They became pen pals and friends, until a teenaged Joe finally learned the truth about what had happened to his father that night. Now, after years of silence, Joe is suddenly here … and Caroline still feels a connection. But she can’t help but wonder if this handsome man holds the key to her family’s healing—or its destruction. And in his presence, how long will she be able to guard her heart?

contemporary RomanceThe Last Letter from Your Lover by JoJo Moyes

A dual timeline love story filled with longing and missed connections. It’s romantic, slightly tragic, and ends with just enough hope to satisfy.

AMAZON BLURB:

It is 1960. When Jennifer Stirling wakes up in the hospital, she can remember nothing-not the tragic car accident that put her there, not her husband, not even who she is. She feels like a stranger in her own life until she stumbles upon an impassioned letter, signed simply “B”, asking her to leave her husband. 

Years later, in 2003, a journalist named Ellie discovers the same enigmatic letter in a forgotten file in her newspaper’s archives. She becomes obsessed by the story and hopeful that it can resurrect her faltering career. Perhaps if these lovers had a happy ending she will find one to her own complicated love life, too. Ellie’s search will rewrite history and help her see the truth about her own modern romance. 

Historical Women’s FictionThe Lost Book of Eleanor Dare by Kimberly Brock

This is a beautifully layered novel that blends Southern historical fiction with the mystery of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. It’s a poignant story about legacy, resilience, and the power of forgotten women’s voices passed down through generations.

AMAZON BLURB:

What happened to the Lost Colony of Roanoke remains a mystery, but the women who descended from Eleanor Dare have long known that the truth lies in what she left behind: a message carved onto a large stone and the contents of her treasured commonplace book. Brought from England on Eleanor’s fateful voyage to the New World, her book was passed down through the fifteen generations of daughters who followed as they came of age. Thirteen-year-old Alice had been next in line to receive it, but her mother’s tragic death fractured the unbroken legacy and the Dare Stone and the shadowy history recorded in the book faded into memory. Or so Alice hoped.

In the waning days of World War II, Alice is a young widow and a mother herself when she is unexpectedly presented with her birthright: the deed to Evertell, her abandoned family home and the history she thought forgotten. Determined to sell the property and step into a future free of the past, Alice returns to Savannah with her own thirteen-year-old daughter, Penn, in tow. But when Penn’s curiosity over the lineage she never knew begins to unveil secrets from beneath every stone and bone and shell of the old house and Eleanor’s book is finally found, Alice is forced to reckon with the sacrifices made for love and the realities of their true inheritance as daughters of Eleanor Dare.

Young adult romanceThe Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

Before it was a hit TV series, this book won hearts with its tender love triangle, beach-house setting, and coming-of-age sweetness. It’s filled with longing, first love, and the complicated emotions of growing up, making it a perfect pick for readers who want their beach read with sun, sand, and swoons.

AMAZON BLURB:

Some summers are just destined to be pretty.

Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer—they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one wonderful and terrible summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along.

The post A Romance Writer’s Favorite Beach Reads first appeared on Sharon Wray.