Sharon Wray's Blog, page 94

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: French Brie and Raspberry Canapés

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Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash

My anniversary was last week, and there are graduation parties almost every weekend. So how does a hungry romance writer, who is tired of dips and chips, up her celebration style? French Brie and Raspberry Canapés! They look amazing, taste delicious, and are the easiest things in the world to make.

French Brie & Raspberry Canapés

I love to serve this on New Year's Eve with glasses of champagne. The problem is I like to go to bed at 10 pm so that's sometimes a problem. The nice thing about this recipe is, while it can't be made ahead, it makes a lot. The recipe says it makes 30, but depending on how many crackers I have, and the amount of cheese, I've been known to stretch the jar of lemon curd to 60. But then I have to have 60 raspberries. Either way, it's a festive app perfect for any time of year.

15 minPrep Time

15 minTotal Time

Yields 30

Author:


Sharon Wray

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Ingredients

1 small round of French Brie cheese (any brand)Sugared graham crackers, split along the perforated seams, to make thirty crackers1 jar of lemon curd1 pint raspberries, washed and dried

Instructions

Slice the brie into 30 pieces (or more depending on the size of the wheel) and place on a graham cracker.Place a teaspoon of lemon curd on top of the cheese.Add a raspberry on top of the lemon curd.Serve on a silver platter along with champagne with a raspberry in the bottom of the glass!Recipe Type: Appetizers7.7.0.128https://sharonwray.com/the-hungry-writer/hungry-romance-writer-french-brie-raspberry-canapes/

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Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

 

The post The Hungry {Romance} Writer: French Brie and Raspberry Canapés appeared first on Sharon Wray.

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: French Brie and Raspberry Canapés

[image error]

Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash

My anniversary was last week, and there are graduation parties almost every weekend. So how does a hungry romance writer, who is tired of dips and chips, up her celebration style? French Brie and Raspberry Canapés! They look amazing, taste delicious, and are the easiest things in the world to make.

French Brie & Raspberry Canapés

I love to serve this on New Year's Eve with glasses of champagne. The problem is I like to go to bed at 10 pm so that's sometimes a problem. The nice thing about this recipe is, while it can't be made ahead, it makes a lot. The recipe says it makes 30, but depending on how many crackers I have, and the amount of cheese, I've been known to stretch the jar of lemon curd to 60. But then I have to have 60 raspberries. Either way, it's a festive app perfect for any time of year.

15 minPrep Time

15 minTotal Time

Yields 30

Author:


Sharon Wray

Save Recipe

Print Recipe




My Recipes
My Lists
My Calendar

Ingredients

1 small round of French Brie cheese (any brand)Sugared graham crackers, split along the perforated seams, to make thirty crackers1 jar of lemon curd1 pint raspberries, washed and dried

Instructions

Slice the brie into 30 pieces (or more depending on the size of the wheel) and place on a graham cracker.Place a teaspoon of lemon curd on top of the cheese.Add a raspberry on top of the lemon curd.Serve on a silver platter along with champagne with a raspberry in the bottom of the glass!Recipe Type: Appetizers7.7.0.128https://sharonwray.com/the-hungry-writer/hungry-romance-writer-french-brie-raspberry-canapes/

[image error]

Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

 

The post The Hungry {Romance} Writer: French Brie and Raspberry Canapés appeared first on Sharon Wray.

Daring Debuts ’18: Rachel Pudelek’s New Release Freyja’s Daughter

[image error]I’d like to welcome Rachel Pudelek and her new release FREYJA’S DAUGHTER to Daring Debuts today!

“Well behaved women seldom make history, but they still end up as the monsters in folklore.

Faline Frey is a bounty-hunter, more comfortable relying on perp files and handcuffs than using her huldra powers to take down a suspect. No sense in catching the unwanted attention of her local Hunter authority, a group of holy soldiers born to police the supernatural and keep Wild Women—huldras, mermaids, succubi, rusalki and harpies—in check.

All that changes the night she heads out for a date, hoping to get lucky. Instead, she gets screwed.

Now her sister is missing, along with Wild Women from all over the country. The Hunters are on her tail and the one person offering to help is her ex-lover, Officer David Garcia, who has just enough ties to the supernatural world to hang her with. To unite her enemies against their common foe, Faline will need to convince the Wild Women to do the one thing she fears most—exhume their power buried deep beneath centuries of oppression. That is, if she can keep them from killing each other.”

FREYJA’S DAUGHTER is the first in a feminist fantasy series and introduces Faline Frey, a bounty hunter and member of the Washington huldra coterie, who must unite the succubi, harpies, mermaids, and rusalki to rescue her sister and escape the clutches of the Hunters, the mysterious men who have been controlling the Wild Women for centuries.

Well behaved women seldom make history, but they still end up as the monsters in folklore. ~ Rachel Pudelek @rachelpud
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SHARON: Welcome, Rachel. I love the premise of your debut novel. Where did you get the idea?

RACHEL: While researching ancient goddess-worshipping cultures I noticed how mythology about goddesses and folkloric females shifted as women became more oppressed due to political and/or religious changes. I wanted to tell a similar story, about folkloric women who used to be wild and free and powerful, who were told lies about their very existence, that their wildness must be contained due to its uncontrollable nature. Until one huldra stumbles upon the truth when her own containment cracks open and her wildness flows freely.

SHARON: What a fascinating idea. What is the story behind the title?

RACHEL: Each book in the Wild Women series is based on a goddess of each Wild Women group. The first book concentrates on the huldra, and their goddess/creatrix is Freyja, so that’s why I call it FREYJA’S DAUGHTER. I came up with it and both my agent and my publisher loved the title so it stayed.

SHARON: It’s a perfect title. No spoiler, but can you tell us something we won’t find out just by reading the book jacket?

RACHEL: Each of the different Wild Woman types were created by a different goddess who breathed her life and abilities into her highest temple priestesses before her temple fell to patriarchal invaders. This backstory is touched on throughout the book (more will unfold as the series progresses) and is the basis for the Wild Women’s belief systems and moral codes as well as differing values.

SHARON: I can’t wait to learn more about the different goddesses. Do you have a favorite character?

RACHEL: I love the main character Faline, but the funnest character to write was Marie, the succubi leader. She’s morally ambiguous, says what she thinks, and just sees life itself as a play thing. I love that about her.

The funnest character to write was Marie, the succubi leader. She’s morally ambiguous, says what she thinks, and just sees life itself as a play thing. I love that about her. ~ Rachel Pudelek @rachelpud
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SHARON: If you could spend a day with one of your characters, who would it be and what would you do?

RACHEL: I’d pick the brains of the rusalki, ask them about everything spiritual. The rusalki in Freyja’s Daughter are a group of Wild Women whose power has a lot to do with divination. They’re odd (think adult, recluse Luna Lovegood’s from Harry Potter) and speak mostly in riddles, but spending a day learning their secrets sounds like fun to me.

SHARON: Are your characters based on real people, or do they come from your imaginations?

RACHEL: My characters are based on real folklore, except for the Hunters, I made them up by tying bits and pieces of groups who oppressed others throughout history and mythology. Each group of Wild Women is from legend. Each goddess they worship is from ancient mythology/belief systems. Their personalities, though, I absolutely fabricated.

SHARON: That’s probably a good thing. LOL. How long did you take to write this book?

RACHEL: It took me about a month or two to draft this book, but it took many more months of editing and revisions as my agent and I passed it back and forth, before it was ready to go on submission.

What’s your favourite writing advice? Perseverance is key. ~ Rachel Pudelek
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SHARON: What kind of research did you do for this book?

RACHEL: I actually have a list of non-fiction books I read as research for my Wild Women series on my website. I read books, visited museums, listened to podcasts, and watched documentaries on ancient goddess cultures, mythology, and matrilineal and matriarchal cultures.

SHARON: Sounds fascinating. Can you share your writing routine?

RACHEL: I don’t have much of a routine. I do what I call “book work” every week day. I mostly work from my couch, or on particularly distracting days I’ll work in a cubby desk at my local library.

SHARON: I know how important it is to write every day. Do you have any writing quirks?

RACHEL: I’m not sure if this is a quirk, but I have a Costco-sized box of caramel-covered apple suckers that I’m only allowed to enjoy while editing. They help alleviate some of the sting.

SHARON: I’ll have to try those! What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

RACHEL: I love wine tasting and hiking and kayaking–just getting out in nature and enjoying its offerings.

SHARON: Taking walks is sometimes the best way to deal with plot problems. Which book influenced you the most?

RACHEL: This may sound cliche, but The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer was huge for me. I gave up my passtime of reading and writing when I had my kids. The Twilight series sucked me in in such an emotional way, (even the setting of my home state of Washington acted as balm to my homesick heart) that it reignited my creative side and made me want to write again.

SHARON: I know a lot of writers who started writing because of Twilight and Buffy! What are you working on right now?

RACHEL: I’m currently working on Lilith’s Children, the second book in the Wild Women series, and putting the polishing touches on a paranormal YA.

SHARON: I can’t wait to hear more. What’s your favorite writing advice?

RACHEL: Perseverance is key.

The book you’re currently reading? Right now I’m reading Viking Warrior Rising by Asa Maria Bradley, and loving it. ~ Rachel Pudelek @rachelpud @AsaMariaBradley
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SHARON: Fabulous advice! The book you’re currently reading?

RACHEL: Right now I’m reading Viking Warrior Rising by Asa Maria Bradley, and loving it.

SHARON: I adored Viking Warrior Rising and Asa Maria is one of my favorite authors (and one of my lovely Golden Heart sisters). Thanks so much for spending the day with us, Rachel. I wish you great success with your debut.

———————-

[image error]Rachel Pudelek is a dog-hugger and tree-lover. Growing up with three sisters sparked her passion for both women’s history and women’s advocacy, which led to her career as a birth doula and childbirth educator. These days she channels those passions into writing fiction. When she’s not writing, Rachel enjoys hiking, attempting to grow her own food, or reading.

Rachel lives in Seattle, Washington with her husband, two daughters, two dogs, a cat named Lucifer, and two well-fed guinea pigs. Freyja’s Daughter is her debut novel.

You can find FREYJA’S DAUGHTER here: Amazon

You can find Rachel here:

Website  |  Facebook | Twitter |  Instagram  | Pinterest  | Goodreads 

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Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

The post Daring Debuts ’18: Rachel Pudelek’s New Release Freyja’s Daughter appeared first on Sharon Wray.

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

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It’s almost Father’s Day, and I have a wonderful Lemon Ricotta Pancake recipe for those who want to try something different. It’s a combination of a number of recipes, including one I found in an old Williams Sonoma cookbook. I substituted white-whole wheat flour for white cake flour to give the pancakes a nuttier flavor, and I cut down on the sugar.  I like to serve these with bacon or my dad’s sausage ring and fresh fruit with a drizzle of maple syrup. And lots of hot coffee, of course! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Serves 6-8

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

This recipe was adapted from a Williams Sonoma recipe. It's a little more work than I'd normally put into breakfast, but it's for Father's Day so it's worth it! I serve this with bacon or my dad's sausage ring. With hot coffee, of course!

20 minPrep Time

10 minCook Time

30 minTotal Time

Yields 12-14 pancakes

Author:


Sharon Wray

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Ingredients

Pancakes1 cup ricotta cheese1 cup milk3 eggs, separated into yolks and whites2 Tablespoons sugar1/4 teaspoon vanilla1 lemon, juice and zest1 1/2 cups white-whole wheat flour1 Tablespoon baking powder1/4 tsp. salt, divided in halfToppingsBlueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, BananasMaple SyrupHoney

Instructions

Preheat heat a griddle to 350. Lightly season with butter or nonstick cooking spray.In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.In a large bowl, wisk together the egg YOLKS, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest and juice.In another large bowl, beat the egg WHITES and 1/8 teaspoon salt until soft peaks form.In the egg YOLK bowl, gently stir in the dry, sifted ingredients until just combined.Then, with a rubber spatula, fold in the egg WHITES, 1/3 at a time.Ladle batter onto the griddle (about 1/3 cup per pancake) and cook until the underneath is golden. Flip and cook the other side. Each side will take 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a warm serving plate and continue making pancakes.Serve with your favorite toppings such as warm maple syrup, fresh berries, honey, and/or bananas.Recipe Type: Breakfast

Notes

Chilling the bowl and beaters helps form the egg white peaks faster.

7.7.0.146https://sharonwray.com/the-hungry-writer/hungry-romance-writer-lemon-ricotta-pancakes/

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Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

 

The post The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes appeared first on Sharon Wray.

Daring Debuts ’18: Julie Clark’s New Release The Ones We Choose

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Today I’d like to welcome Julie Clark and her debut novel THE ONES WE CHOSE to Daring Debuts.

————

“This chimera of heart and science skillfully produces an extraordinary breakthrough novel. I love smart fiction with a sharp heroine at the core. Julie Clark has perceptively given us that in The Ones We Choose. A story of mother and son and the ties that bind, right down to the marrow. Trust me, you’re going to want to read this.” —SARAH McCOY, New York Times and international bestselling author of Marilla of Green Gables and The Mapmaker’s Children

“How could I not love a debut about science, secrets, DNA, and how the traumas of our ancestors still live within our very cells? With gorgeous prose, and a deep emotional resonance, The Ones We Choose is about the science of love, how our DNA shapes us, and a mother’s fierce battle to protect her son while confronting what really makes our identity ours, what and who we choose to let in, and what and who we don’t.  An absolutely dazzling, profound ruby of a novel.” — Caroline Leavitt, New York Times Bestselling author of Pictures of You, and Cruel Beautiful World

Lisa Genova meets 23andMe in this exploration of the genetic and emotional ties that bind, as debut author Julie Clark delivers a compelling read about a young boy desperate to find his place in this world, a mother coming to terms with her own past, and the healing power of forgiveness.

————

SHARON: What am amazing premise! Where did you get the idea?

JULIE: I wanted to write about a single mother who wasn’t single by divorce or death, but rather by choice. Someone who chose motherhood on her own terms, in her own time, out of a profound love for the child she always knew was meant for her.

I wanted to write about a single mother. . . who chose motherhood on her own terms, in her own time, out of a profound love for the child she always knew was meant for her. ~ Julie Clark @jclarkab
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SHARON: It sounds so emotionally compelling. Did you choose the title?

JULIE: I came up with the title, with the help of one of my best college friends and avid readers, Lori Sawyer. I was shocked that I got to keep it.

SHARON: Can you tell us something we won’t find out just by reading the book jacket?

JULIE: Two people die.

SHARON: Yikes! It sounds like one of my books. Do you have a favorite character?

JULIE: I loved writing Rose (my main character’s sister) the most. She always said the smartest things.

SHARON: If you could spend a day with one of your characters, who would it be?

JULIE: Definitely Jackie, my main character Paige’s best friend! She’s wild and fun, and such a good and loyal friend.

SHARON: I’m looking forward to meeting both Rose and Jackie. Are your characters based on real people, or do they come from your imaginations?

JULIE: All my imagination!

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be? Keep going! And remember, this is supposed to be fun. ~ Julie Clark @jclarkab
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SHARON: How long did you take to write this book?

JULIE: I wrote a first draft from April 2014- July 2014. Then I revised for two years. I got my agent in 2016, and we sold the book in early 2017.

SHARON: Congratulations! What kind of research did you do for this book?

JULIE: Because THE ONES WE CHOOSE has a genetic subplot, I worked very closely with a geneticist to make sure my science was accurate, and I wasn’t drifting too far off the farm. I spent about two years emailing and calling him fairly regularly with questions.

SHARON: That’s a huge commitment to a book. Are you a plotter or a pantser?

JULIE: Both! I like to plot out my character arcs and I like to map out how everything gets from A to B to C. But then I usually don’t look at that again. I just write. And all kinds of crazy things happen that usually drive my critique partners crazy.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? I like to plot out my character arcs and map out how everything gets from A to B to C. But then I don’t look at that again. I just write. And all kinds of crazy things happen. ~ Julie Clark @jclarkab
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SHARON: Most of my CPs have disappeared for the same reason! LOL. What is your favorite part of your writing process, and why?

JULIE: I love to journal out plot problems, or just journal out different plot points. I love writing about my book. And I love late revision the most. When all of the hard work of figuring out what the book is supposed to be is done, and I can just get in there and fine tune it. Make the language sing.

SHARON: What is the most challenging part of your writing process, and why?

JULIE: Revising a first or second draft. It’s a lot of heavy lifting and it’s hard.

SHARON: I totally agree with this. I HATE drafting. Can you share your writing routine?

JULIE: I wake up every morning at 4, and write until 6. Then I have to get ready for work. In the afternoons I’ll sometimes get a little bit more done, but I do my best thinking in the early morning. I also write all weekend long.

How do you deal with writer's block? I pull out my sharpie pens and the journal . . . and then start journaling out the problem on paper. Somehow, writing about the book usually knocks loose whatever is stuck. ~ Julie Clark @jbclarkab
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SHARON: You are a busy woman! Have you ever gotten writer’s block? If yes, how do you overcome it?

JULIE: I pull out my sharpie pens and the journal designated for that particular book, and then start journaling out the problem on paper. Somehow, writing about the book usually knocks loose whatever is stuck.

SHARON: If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

JULIE: Keep going! And remember, this is supposed to be fun.

SHARON: Do you have any writing quirks?

JULIE: I have to write in Miquelrius spiral notebooks with colored ultra fine tipped sharpies.

SHARON: I had to go look up those notebooks and they seem awesome! Can you share a bit about your non-writer self?

JULIE: I teach fifth grade, and I’m a single mom of two boys ages nine and twelve. We have a golden doodle named Teddy.

I’m writing for The Debutante Ball this year! www.thedebutanteball.com We write about all things writing, and blog about our debut year. ~ Julie Clark @jclarkab
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SHARON: Apart from novel writing, do you do any other kinds of writing?

JULIE: I’m writing for The Debutante Ball this year! www.thedebutanteball.com We write about all things writing, and blog about our debut year.

SHARON: I love that blog! Which book influenced you the most?

JULIE: The Red Tent, The Time Traveler’s Wife, and everything by Jodi Picoult.

SHARON: What are you working on right now?

JULIE: I’m working on an upmarket women’s fiction with suspense elements, similar to Liane Moriarty or Sally Hepworth’s newest The Family Next Door.

SHARON: What’s your favourite writing advice?

JULIE: Sandra Scofield says: In order to publish your book you must: (1)Think of yourself as a worker and (2) Show up at the job. I’ve always tried to follow that advice.

What’s your favourite writing advice? Sandra Scofield says: In order to publish your book you must: (1)Think of yourself as a worker and (2) Show up at the job. I’ve always tried to follow that advice. ~ Julie Clark @jclarkab
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SHARON: Thanks so much for spending time with us today, Julie. Congratulations on your new release!

———-

[image error]Born and raised in Santa Monica, California, Julie Clark grew up reading books on the beach while everyone else surfed. After attending college at University of the Pacific, and a brief stint working in the athletic department at University of California, Berkeley, she returned home to Santa Monica to teach. She now lives there with her two young sons and a golden doodle with poor impulse control. THE ONES WE CHOOSE is her first novel.

You can find THE ONES WE CHOOSE here: Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

You can find Julie Clark here: Website | Facebook | Twitter  | Instagram  | Goodreads :

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Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

The post Daring Debuts ’18: Julie Clark’s New Release The Ones We Choose appeared first on Sharon Wray.

How Myths, Fairytales, and Legends Created the Deadly Force Romantic Suspense Series

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Adriane carrying water to her garden.

Today I’m talking about my five favorite myths/fairytales/legends that inspired my Deadly Force romantic suspense series, including my debut novel Every Deep Desire. The first four myths discussed below pertain to the heroine, Juliet. Rafe, the hero, is based on the fifth one.

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Although Every Deep Desire is a contemporary romantic suspense with a sexy, ex-Green Beret hero, the story’s protagonist is his wife Juliet, a beautiful landscape architect. Rafe has a tortured backstory, but Juliet has the harder job. She must learn to love again. Early in their marriage, Rafe abandoned Juliet and, although she rebuilt her life, she never recovered her heart. Juliet’s character arc from a woman betrayed to a woman who chooses love draws from two myths, one fairytale, and a play.

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Ariadne in her garden.

The two myths are the Greek stories of Ariadne and Persephone who overcome their tragic love stories to win their HEAs.

Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos, fell in love with a prisoner named Theseus. When Theseus faced the Minotaur in the labyrinth, Ariadne offered Theseus a sword to kill the beast and a ball of string to help him return. Theseus succeeded, took Ariadne to Naxos, and abandoned her. After years of sadness, and helping the people of Naxos by building gardens and growing food, Ariadne fell in love with the god Dionysus. They married, had five sons, and lived happily ever after.

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Persephone fountain in Charleston, SC.

Persephone was abducted by Hades and taken to the underworld until her mother Demeter complained. Persephone was allowed to leave but, since she’d eaten three pomegranate seeds, she had to spend three months (winter) of every year with Hades. Despite disliking the arrangement, Persephone became queen of the underworld and helped souls—dead and alive. And every spring she returned, filling the world with beauty and fragrance.

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Hades abducting Persephone.

In both stories, neither heroine has a point of view. Ariadne’s story is told in Theseus’s tales. Demeter and Hades speak for Persephone. Yet, this lack of voice reveals these goddesses’ courageous choices, selflessness, and grace when faced with heartache. We see them through their actions, not their words.

And that’s what I wanted for my heroine Juliet Capel. She was traumatized by an early love and suffered before becoming a landscape architect in Savannah, GA—the city of gardens and labyrinths. She, too, has no voice in the beginning. Yet, as she changes, her voice—and her actions—are the only things that can save those she loves.

My third inspiration for Juliet is Sleeping Beautyby Charles Perrault in La Belle au bois (Little Briar Rose) in 1697.

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Sleeping Beauty garden statue.

While other sources portray Briar Rose as a passive victim of fate, Perrault offers something new. Briar Rose, cursed by an evil fairy, pricks her finger and falls asleep until a prince wakes her with a kiss. Although they’re in love, she convinces the prince to marry in secret. His mother is an ogress and Briar Rose is concerned about the evil fairy. They hide in the woods until her mother-in-law/ogress tries to kill their two children and serve them for dinner. But Briar Rose outwits the ogress and saves her children.

What I love about Perrault’s version is that the heroine falls asleep a cursed, young princess and wakes up a strong-willed queen who’ll do anything to save her family. In Every Deep Desire, Juliet believed in love, had her heart broken and shut down her emotions, only to be reawakened as a woman who does things she never thought she’d do—like stand up to a group of ex-Green Berets and the leader of a secret army of assassins in order to protect those she loves.

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Statue of Juliet Capulet in Juliet’s courtyard in Verona, Italy.

The fourth inspiration is Romeo and Juliet. Every Deep Desire is a redemption of Shakespeare’s tragic love story. I’ve always wondered what the lovers’ marriage would’ve been like had they lived. If their passion would’ve dissipated or increased with maturity. When Juliet’s young marriage died a metaphorical death, fulfilling her father’s warnings, she shut down emotionally. It’s not until Rafe returns and forces her to face her life (an awakening) that she realizes, in order to truly live, she must risk her heart again.

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Photo by Adrian Moran on Unsplash

The fifth story—a legend—is about the hero. Rafe is an ex-Green Beret who left his A-team and abandoned his wife to join the Fianna—a secret army known for its brutal training and covert assassinations. The idea of a secret army of assassins is based on the stories of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the hero of the Fenian Cycle of Celtic Poetry. Fionn and his men lived in 1stcentury AD Ireland. When Rome invaded Britain, Fionn gathered men, trained them hard, and attacked Rome’s legions.

The key thing about Fionn’s men, and the Fianna army in Every Deep Desire, is that they had to give up everything tying them to this world, including everyone they loved. In Rafe’s case, he gave up the men in his unit and his beloved wife.

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When Rafe returns to protect Juliet from an enemy of the Fianna, he finds a woman so shut off from her emotions that she’s only half living. His goal is to take down the enemy and teach her that if she wants a full life, she must open her heart.

Except Rafe has been gone a long time and, despite the fact he’s returned a sexy man who still loves her, she can’t return his love. As she helps him find his enemy, and begins to open her heart, she doesn’t discover until the end that their success means they’ll be separated forever. Juliet then has to decide whether or not she cares enough about Rafe to outwit a unit of ex-Green Berets and the leader of the Fianna—not with violence or weapons, but with grace, dignity, and a fierce, feminine courage. A courage modeled by Ariadne, Persephone, and Briar Rose. A courage driven by an epic, forever kind of love.

Unless otherwise attributed, all photos courtesy of Sharon Wray.

[image error]Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available in paperback, audio and e-book formats on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

 

The post How Myths, Fairytales, and Legends Created the Deadly Force Romantic Suspense Series appeared first on Sharon Wray.

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Firefly Lemonade

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Photo by Jorgen Haland on Unsplash

It’s been a long week and I’m looking forward to sitting in my backyard tonight with my favorite drink of all time: Firefly Lemonade. Made with Firefly Brand sweet tea-infused vodka and lemonade, it’s the perfect way to start the weekend!

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Firefly Lemonade

A wonderful summer drink with the flavors of sweet iced tea, fresh lemonade, and vodka. Perfect for a Friday night with friends after a long week!

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5 minTotal Time

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Sharon Wray

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Ingredients

Cocktail:1 part Firefly Brand sweet tea infused vodka1 part sweet lemonade (your favorite brand or homemade)Garnish (optional)Fresh lemon slicesFresh mint leaves

Instructions

Mix one part Firefly brand sweet tea vodka and one part lemonade.Pour into a glass over ice.Garnish with fresh lemon slices and/or fresh mint leavesRecipe Type: Beverage7.7.0.147https://sharonwray.com/the-hungry-writer/hungry-romance-writer-firefly-lemonade/

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And here’s a wonderful song filled with summer “feels” to get the weekend started!

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Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

The post The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Firefly Lemonade appeared first on Sharon Wray.

Daring Debuts ’18: Rachel Dacus’s New Release Renaissance Club

[image error]Today I’d like to welcome Rachel Dacus and her new release THE RENAISSANCE CLUB to Daring Debuts.

When young art historian May Gold slips through a fold in time while touring northern Italy, and comes face to face with her artist hero, 17th century sculptor Gianlorenzo Bernini, it ignites a powerful attraction that takes her on a romantic and creative journey. This adventure will challenge her to decide what she would give up to be with her soul mate and live a creative life—perhaps even the time in which she lives.

Enchanting, rich and romantic…a poetic journey through the folds of time. In THE RENAISSANCE CLUB, passion, art, and history come together in this captivating tale of one woman’s quest to discover her true self and the life she’s meant to lead. Rachel Dacus deftly crafts a unique and spellbinding twist to the time-traveling adventure that’s perfect for fans of Susanna Kearsley and Diana Gabaldon. — Kerry Lonsdale, Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author

THE RENAISSANCE CLUB is a beautifully written story about a woman torn between two worlds—the present and the distant past. This time-travel adventure kept me guessing until the end about which world May would choose, and if that choice would be the right one. Highly recommended for lovers of time travel fiction or anyone looking for a compelling story about a woman trying to find happiness. — Annabelle Costa, Author of The Time Traveler’s Boyfriend.

—————-Here’s a short excerpt——————

“Sorry!” she said, backing up.

“Signorina, watch where you’re going!”

The young man in black frowned and didn’t apologize. With his long, dark hair and white sleeves rolled up on muscular forearms, he looked like an art restorer. A black jacket was draped over his shoulders. He held a long wooden measuring rod, the kind used by architects centuries ago. Maybe he was rehearsing for some sort of pageant.

“Ladies are not allowed here while I’m working,” he said stiffly. He aimed the rod at the nearest column and sighted up along it.

“I know you!” she exclaimed. She knew him well.

He straightened his jacket and bowed. “Everyone in Rome knows Cavaliere Bernini. But you may not be here. I need silence. I have a very big work to complete.”

His finger pointed up at the four twisted bronze columns, where May was astonished to see no bronze canopy on top. Tons of bronze had simply vanished. She looked back at him. Bernini lifted the instrument and peered up at the nearest column. Her living, breathing idol moved to one side to get a better angle. Lean and strong, he was even more handsome than in his self-portrait.

Now he was so intent on his investigation that he seemed unaware of her and the fact that her pulse was pounding. How had she come here, and where exactly was she?

He lowered the measuring rod, framed the air with his hands, and used his fingers to make rapid computations. He stared at her so intensely that she shivered. She remembered that searing gaze in his self-portrait.

“You’re disturbing me, signorina.” He turned away, clearly expecting her to leave.

How could she possibly move? Here was her genius, his hair curled with wiry energy, materializing the restless mind under it. His prominent cheekbones gave him the Neapolitan look that had embarrassed him and made him fabricate a Florentine heritage. He made a few quick calculations and looked at her again, eyes narrowed.

“I won’t say a word,” she promised.

He was obviously contemplating how to throw her out. Bernini wasn’t much taller than she was, but he made every inch of the difference count. May stared back, as defiantly as she could, while stunned and unable to forget the many times she had imagined his powerful arms pulling her close. She stared back, asserting herself silently as his historian. Historians didn’t blink. Though most never met their subjects face-to-face.

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SHARON:  Hi Rachel! Thanks so much for sharing your story with us today. I’ve spent a lot of time in Italy, especially Florence and could have easily fallen in love with Gianlorenzo Bernini. Where did you get this unique idea?

RACHEL: An art history tour of northern Italy, much like the one depicted in my story, kindled a wish to meet some of the great artistic geniuses behind the Renaissance. Though I know in real life, time-travel isn’t possible, I found a way to meet one of the most spectacular artistic geniuses who ever lived—by recreating him as my hero!

Though I know in real life, time-travel isn’t possible, I found a way to meet one of the most spectacular artistic geniuses who ever lived—by recreating him as my hero! ~ Rachel Dacus @Rachel_Dacus
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SHARON: I so wish time travel was possible. What’s the story behind the title?

RACHEL: No one has ever suggested I change the title since the first query I sent out or the last editor at my publishing house. The title comes from the touring group, who named themselves The Renaissance Club.

SHARON: That’s amazing. LOL. Can you tell us something we won’t find out just by reading the book jacket?

RACHEL: An older woman, a member of The Renaissance Club, also has an adventure in time on the tour. It changes her life and her view lof her employee, our main character.

SHARON: Do you have a favorite character?

RACHEL: Though May and Bernini are my main characters, the story couldn’t exist without time travel guide George St. James. Based—amazingly—on a real person (and I won’t say whether he could go time traveling or not), George has his own complicated backstory and reason for helping others to realize their full potentials. The time traveling quirk he developed as a child was something he had to learn to tame, and like the person he’s based on, George became a master at turning unusual ways of looking at life into a way to serve others.

SHARON: If you could spend a day with one of your characters, who would it be and what would you do?

RACHEL: I’d certainly spend a day with Bernini. Like May, I’d just watch him work. They said Bernini could chisel marble for eight hours straight without stopping. He himself reported that while working on a sculpture, he was in a state of bliss. I’d like to observe that, though I would need a lunch break! But who knows what would get started by simply observing a charismatic genius. As May discovered, all kinds of delicious complications might arise.

SHARON: I would love to spend the day watching Bernini work. And then go out for some fabulous Florentine food. Are your characters based on real people, or do they come from your imaginations?

RACHEL: Bernini and George St. James are based on real people. Bernini, of course, on himself, the real 17th century artist who evolved the Baroque style to its height of expressiveness. George is a composite of teachers and tour guides I’ve known.

SHARON: How long did you take to write this book?

RACHEL: I began with the concept seven years before I sold it to a publisher. That’s a long, long journey, and a nearly gave up toward the end, but because I had such fantastic help from top editors and beta readers, I just couldn’t. I’m really hoping my next book will be a shorter journey!

SHARON: I’m so glad you persevered! What research did you do for this book?

RACHEL: I read everything that can be found on Bernini, attended a year-long art history course on The Italian Renaissance, and completed that course with a three-week tour of the art in Italy made by Renaissance geniuses.

I read everything that can be found on Bernini, attended a year-long art history course on The Italian Renaissance, and completed that course with a three-week tour of the art in Italy made by Renaissance geniuses. ~ Rachel Dacus…
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SHARON: One of my favorite books about the Italian Renaissance is The Agony and The Ecstasy about Michelanglo. Are you a plotter or a pantser?

RACHEL: I’m a definite pantser, though I try to hide the fact by constructing careful outlines, spreadsheets, plot graphs, and timelines after the novel is finished.

SHARON:  LOL. I do the same thing! What is your favorite part of your writing process, and why?

RACHEL: My favorite part is drafting. The thrill of delving into my subterranean imagination, moving into that not-quite-conscious realm intrigues and amazes me, every time I do it.

My favorite part of writing is drafting. The thrill of delving into my subterranean imagination, moving into that not-quite-conscious realm intrigues and amazes me, every time I do it. ~ Rachel Dacus @Rachel_Dacus
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SHARON: I have to admit that I hate drafting. What is the most challenging part of your writing process, and why?

RACHEL: Revising is definitely the challenging part, because it engages both the analytical and creative sides of the mind, a balancing act that reminds me of juggling on a bongo board—which I once was taught by circus performers in exchange for giving them a few ballet lessons.

SHARON: Circus perfomers? I’d love to hear that story one day! Can you share your writing routine?

RACHEL: I write for one to two hours every morning, first thing if possible. Longer if possible. My longest writing stint is probably about six hours.

SHARON: Have you ever gotten writer’s block? If yes, how do you overcome it?

RACHEL: The way I overcome it is by juggling multiple projects. If I can’t write on one, I switch to another and find my flow.

SHARON: If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

RACHEL: Don’t give up!

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be? Don’t give up! ~ Rachel Dacus @Rachel_Dacus
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SHARON: Can you share a little bit about yourself?

RACHEL: I’m a grant writer and fundraising consultant for my day job, the proud pal of a Silky Terrier, who bosses me and my husband around, and a volunteer for several local nonprofit organizations. They work on a local level to move impoverished people back into the mainstream, and provide day excursions to delight children who are living in poverty. Doing all these things keeps me far too active. I’d like to retire and write all day, but I’d never trade away seeing the perfect smile on a child’s face!

SHARON: What an interesting career! How did you get into writing?

RACHEL: I blame my mother and a wonderful bookstore in Long Beach, California called Acre of Books, which introduced me to the idea that I could own such books as the Oz books, Nancy Drew, and the rainbow fairytale books. I took the owning one step further and started writing books for myself to read.

SHARON: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

RACHEL: I like to feed and watch animals and birds, grow orchids, sew, shop, and hang out in cafes, preferably writing.

SHARON: I love writing in cafes.  Can you share something most people probably don’t know about you?

RACHEL: Because my father was a rocket scientist, my name is on a floating piece of space junk.

What’s your favorite writing advice? Never give up! ~ Rachel Dacus @ Rachel_Dacus
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SHARON: That’s awesome! Which book influenced you the most?

RACHEL: Probably Emma by Jane Austen for its witty treatment of an entire village and the best unreliable narrator ever.

SHARON: One of my favorites as well. What are you working on right now?

RACHEL: I’m working on The Romantics, the story of two half-sisters who clash over their inheritance, a cottage in northern Italy, with its resident ghost, the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.

SHARON: I can’t wait! What’s your favorite writing advice?

RACHEL: Never give up!

SHARON: Why do you think fiction can change the world?

RACHEL: Because stories touch the heart deeply and become part of the reality of our lives, when we move fully into them. Every story has a purpose, and is about human growth, and that’s the force that can change everything.

Stories touch the heart deeply and become part of the reality of our lives when we move fully into them. Every story has a purpose, and is about human growth, and that’s the force that can change everything. ~ Rachel Dacus @Rachel_Dacus
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SHARON: Thanks so much for spending the day with us, Rachel. I wish you lots of luck with your release!

—————-

[image error] Rachel Dacus is the author of Gods of Water and Air, a collection of poetry, prose, and drama, and the poetry collections Earth Lessons and Femme au Chapeau. Her poetry and prose have appeared in Atlanta Review, Boulevard, Prairie Schooner, The Pedestal, and Valparaiso Poetry Review. The Renaissance Club, her time travel novel involving the great Italian sculptor Gianlorenzo Bernini, is forthcoming in January 2018 from Fiery Seas Publishing. Her fourth poetry collection, Arabesque, is forthcoming in August 2018 from FutureCycle Press.

You can find Rachel here: Website  | Facebook  | Twitter   |  Pinterest  | Goodreads

[image error]Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets and their smart, sexy heroines retell Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Her debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.

It’s available on: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | IndieBound | Kobo.

And adding it to your Goodreads TBR list is also always appreciated!

The post Daring Debuts ’18: Rachel Dacus’s New Release Renaissance Club appeared first on Sharon Wray.

Awesome Author Interviews: Joanne Guidoccio’s New Release A Different Kind of Reunion

[image error]Today I’d like to welcome Joanne Guidoccio, one of my Sisterhood of Suspense sisters, and her newest release A DIFFERENT KIND OF REUNION to the blog.

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While not usually a big deal, one overlooked email would haunt teacher Gilda Greco. Had she read it, former student Sarah McHenry might still be alive.

Suspecting foul play, Constable Leo Mulligan plays on Gilda’s guilt and persuades her to participate in a séance facilitated by one of Canada’s best-known psychics. Six former students also agree to participate. At first cooperative and willing, their camaraderie is short-lived as old grudges and rivalries emerge. The séance is a bust.

Determined to solve Sarah’s murder, Gilda launches her own investigation and uncovers shocking revelations that could put several lives—including her own—in danger. Can Gilda and the psychic solve this case before the killer strikes again?

————

SHARON: What a chilling premise, Joanne! What do you do when you are not writing?

JOANNE: While writing occupies the lion’s share of my time, I also enjoy reading, yoga, scrapbooking, blogging, movies, artist dates, and meeting friends for leisurely brunches and lunches.

I admire late blooming authors who have launched successful second acts. Two favorites come to mind: Maeve Binchy and Louise Penny. Their novels and writing journeys have inspired me to launch my own second act as a writer. ~ Joanne…
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SHARON: I’m a huge yoga girl and a big fan of artists dates, especially if there’s food involved. Where is your favorite place to write?

JOANNE: When I first retired, I assumed I would be writing in my den. Everything was in place: desk, new computer, book shelves crammed with novels and craft guides, and inspiring Monet prints on the wall. But after several frustrating attempts, I realized the den was too small. While the room could easily be a second bedroom, it was not spacious enough for my creativity to flourish. So, I relocated to a corner of the living/dining area of my condo. With over 900 square feet of space and easy access to my kitchen and balcony, I no longer feel constrained.

SHARON: I move all around the house and hope one day to find the perfect writing spot. Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

JOANNE: I admire late blooming authors who have launched successful second acts. Two favorites come to mind: Maeve Binchy and Louise Penny. Their novels and writing journeys have inspired me to launch my own second act as a writer. From Maeve, I’ve learned that success is not a pie where only a select few have access to the slices. I’ve taken several pages out of Louise’s disciplined approach to structure my own writing practice.

SHARON: I adore Maeve Binchy! What other genres of novel would you love to write?

JOANNE: I have great admiration for all writers of historical fiction. I am most impressed by their ability to expertly weave fact and fiction. At some point, I would like to dabble in that genre. Perhaps, explore my own roots and write an immigration story (Italy/Canada circa 1950s).

Advice for aspiring writers? Experiment until you find your own unique voice and a warm, supportive environment where your words can flow freely. Sign up for creative writing courses . . . and, most important of all, enjoy the journey.…
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SHARON: I’d love a book set in that time period. Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

JOANNE: Experiment until you find your own unique voice and a warm, supportive environment where your words can flow freely. Sign up for creative writing courses—online or offline—that expose you to short stories, children’s and adult writing, creative nonfiction, and poetry. And, most important of all, enjoy the journey.

SHARON: Great advice! Do you have any websites, blogs, or books about writing that you would recommend?

JOANNE: I’ve taken many online courses through RWA (Romance Writers of America), Sisters in Crime, and Ed2Go. I also enjoy reading craft books. Two recent favorites: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert and Writing with Quiet Hands by Paula Munier.

SHARON: I receive Big Magic for my birthday and loved it. Is there anything special that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

JOANNE: Thanks for your encouragement and support over the past ten years. I appreciate your reviews, blog comments, likes and follows on social media, and congratulatory emails and phone calls. You have been wonderful companions on my writing journey.

Is there anything you'd like to say to your readers? Thanks for your encouragement and support over the past ten years. I appreciate your reviews, blog comments, likes and follows . . . and phone calls. You have been wonderful…
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SHARON: Thanks for being here today, Joanne! And I wish you lots of success with you’re new release. And, as a bonus for my readers, here is the trailer for A DIFFERENT KIND OF REUNION!

There’s also a giveaway! Click on the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

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Every Deep Desire & The History of the Fianna Army: Part 2

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In the Deadly Force series, which includes Every Deep Desire and the upcoming One Dark Wish, a group of disgraced ex-Green Berets are desperate to figure out who’s responsible for their dishonor and discharges from the Army while they also battle two disparate enemies.

One of their enemies is known simply as the Fianna. A secretive and brutal army of assassins whose history dates back to pagan Irelend. Last month in Part 1, on the Casablanca Authors blog,  I wrote about the Fianna from the early Roman invasions up through the time of King Arthur. Today I’d like to jump ahead a bit to more modern accounts of these mythical warriors.

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Photo by Adrian Moran on Unsplash

In 1866, a group of Irish soldiers who called themselves the Fianna, assaulted British forts and trading stations in Canada. These are still known as the Fenian Raids. Their goal was to gain independence for Ireland from Britain. These men, after their capture, cited the seven articles of the ancient Fianna army as written in Keating’s History of Ireland and Hume’s The History of England From the Invasion of Julius Caesar to the Revolution in 1688.

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 Since this was during the American Civil War, there’s evidence the U.S. turned a blind eye to these assaults and even more speculation that the U.S. government wanted to use these Fianna warriors in unauthorized and unconventional ways. There’s no proof these men ever fought for the Union Army, but there is anecdotal evidence that, because of their secretive brutal ways, they were asked to join the Civil War.

Ironically, these attacks were one of the reasons the provinces of Canada decided to form a single country in 1867. Neither the U.S. (who was at war with itself) nor the ineffectual Canadian Militia could take down the Fianna. It wasn’t until the 1890’s, when both Canada and the U.S. worked together, that they were they able to eradicate the threat.

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As late as the World War II, there were murmurings (aka gossip) by German POWs held in Ireland of a brutal Irish underground army known as Na Fianna Éireann. The Germans assumed they were part of the Fenian Brotherhood, a rebel offshoot of the men who fought in the early 20th century Irish rebellions. But the locals discounted that story and refused to talk about the young warrior men who lived on the outskirts of society. They were simply known as the Fianna.

It was while reading about the Canadian incidents that I first came across the connection of Shakespeare to the Fianna. Shakespeare was purported to be a secret supporter of Irish Nationalism and these captured men supposedly attempted to communicate in Shakespearean verse instead of Gaelic poetry. This is probably made-up gossip, but I thought it was so interesting that I included it in my own fictional Fianna army.

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So, does the Fianna exist now? I hope not.

Did they ever exist? Yes.

And not just in poetry and myth. From the research I’ve done, the Fianna was the single reason Rome never conquered the Isle and why the Picts and Scots, and even the Vikings, made few forays into Ireland until the late Middle Ages.

There is one documented historical fact written by the Roman Historian Tacitus. In the first century, around 82 AD, Rome’s famous military governor Gnaeus Julius Agricola (who defeated Queen Boudica in 61 AD) sought to invade Ireland with 5,000 men. He even had a minor Irish King willing to betray his countrymen and help him overtake the Island. So, despite resources being stretched thin by battles with the Celts and Picts up in Scotland, he invaded with full confidence that he’d win.

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The battle details are sketchy, but between battling the Fianna warriors from the moment they set foot on the Island, to an extremely rare mutiny within the Roman Legion ranks, Agricola lost and was recalled to Rome by the Emperor Domitian. After that, the stories say that the Roman Legionnaires refused to fight in Ireland or simply disappeared before they’d face the Fianna.

There are so many myths and poems written about the Fianna that it’s hard to distinguish what was real and what wasn’t. But that also gave me a lot of leeway when developing my version of the Fianna Army.

In Every Deep Desire, and the upcoming One Dark Wish, the 21st Century Fianna are a constant source of trouble for the men of the Deadly Force series. In the series, the Fianna are considered a myth by most of the world which gives them tremendous leeway and cover to torment my heroes.

Since the heroes of the Deadly Force series work outside the law, battling an enemy no one believes exists, they’re on their own to survive and redeem themselves. While at the same time trying to fall in love.