Anne Patrick's Blog, page 19
May 24, 2011
Kate Kindle's Angel's Requiem
Kate's Bio
Kate Kindle lives in Northern New Jersey has been an online journalist and print journalist as well as a teacher while raising her four children. Now that they are grown, she and her husband travel a bit as well as take advantage of the cultural life in New York City. Her historical mystery/thriller, Angel's Requiem, has been on Smashwords.com since April, 2010. In April of this year, it came out in print. In addition to her mystery, Kate has been one of the proud contributing authors in Victory Tales Press Anthologies published during the past year. Go to her blog site at http:kindlecloudnine.blogspot.com for a full list of her books.
You can buy Angel's Requiem in eBook form at Smashwords.com/books/view/12422.
In print, you can purchase it via secure paypal payment at her blog site. Alternatively, go to http://www.amazon.com/Angels-Requiem-...
Blurb from Smashwords.com:
"The Nasi's are good to their friends, and miserable to their enemies. Now, their curse has come home to haunt them. How can a loyal friend who believes in the clan patriarch, save him from ultimate destruction? With Aidan on hand to protect her as she moves fearlessly to get to the bottom of this mystery, Libby stops at nothing to clear the Nasi reputation.Together, they move into a world of power and danger, one with stakes so high that an excop, a pretty lawyer, and a forensic pathologist in training, could be erased in an instant for entering forbidden territory...."
An Excerpt From Chapter Five
After the burial, the group went back to the Nasi condo.
Letting himself in through the unlocked door of Number 941, Aidan stood with his shoulders against the wall of the entry, watching the mourners converse in hushed tones, broken by outright laughter, as Quent regaled them again and again with Rico stories. Aidan spotted the young woman with the black hair and in the warmth of the lighted room, she looked quite beautiful. An Italian type, he was certain, with high cheekbones, deep-set liquid brown eyes and a full, sensuous mouth. But, his mind was on business. He did notice that her mourning suit, an appropriate black number off the same designer rack as every other woman there, was cut two inches above the knee, revealing legs long for her short height and curves in all the right places.
As soon as he arrived, Libby spotted him. He was a man of about fifty years old with blue eyes that sparked both humor and flint at the same time. A cop, she decided. However, she returned her attention to the group and didn't leave Angela's side. Aidan scanned the group. He had worn his best gray suit and a blue tie over a white shirt, but he looked more like a chauffeur than a member of this elite group. Even so, Carmella passed by with a tray of hors d'oeuvres and offered him some. In a moment, she was back with an Orange Blossom for him.
As he took his first sip, Libby came over to him.
"Hello, I'm Libby Cervallo. I noticed you standing here. You are…"
"I'm Aidan Bonner, Libby, an investigator for Security Insurance Company. You are…"
"I'm one of the family's attorneys and a friend of Rico," she answered. "What brings you here?"
"Pretty gruesome death, don't you think?" answered Aidan.
"The family is in mourning, they are still reeling from shock. I don't think this is the time to conduct an investigation."
"I don't know about that. Some things don't add up, I think that's pretty obvious, and I have a matter concerning millions of dollars to discuss with you. There's a question about a life insurance policy that was taken out shortly before Mr. Nasi's death. Did you know about it? Odd signature, too."
Libby didn't answer. Instead, she pulled out a card from her purse and handed it to Aidan. "Call me at my office tomorrow and we can have a business discussion then. Now, if you're finished here, please go. This family needs privacy. You did know this was a funeral, didn't you?"
This time, Aidan didn't answer. He nodded to Libby briefly and let himself out.
Leaving the building, Aidan pulled a long envelope out of his breast pocket. He had one more piece of business to attend to. "First things first," he said to himself. "That bastard, Professor Schwartz, PhD, commie, emeritus piece of crap at Columbia, who only just passes for human, will be put off a step by this little message." And he plunked the envelope into a corner mailbox, whistling as he walked to the subway.
Kate Kindle lives in Northern New Jersey has been an online journalist and print journalist as well as a teacher while raising her four children. Now that they are grown, she and her husband travel a bit as well as take advantage of the cultural life in New York City. Her historical mystery/thriller, Angel's Requiem, has been on Smashwords.com since April, 2010. In April of this year, it came out in print. In addition to her mystery, Kate has been one of the proud contributing authors in Victory Tales Press Anthologies published during the past year. Go to her blog site at http:kindlecloudnine.blogspot.com for a full list of her books.
You can buy Angel's Requiem in eBook form at Smashwords.com/books/view/12422.In print, you can purchase it via secure paypal payment at her blog site. Alternatively, go to http://www.amazon.com/Angels-Requiem-...
Blurb from Smashwords.com:
"The Nasi's are good to their friends, and miserable to their enemies. Now, their curse has come home to haunt them. How can a loyal friend who believes in the clan patriarch, save him from ultimate destruction? With Aidan on hand to protect her as she moves fearlessly to get to the bottom of this mystery, Libby stops at nothing to clear the Nasi reputation.Together, they move into a world of power and danger, one with stakes so high that an excop, a pretty lawyer, and a forensic pathologist in training, could be erased in an instant for entering forbidden territory...."
An Excerpt From Chapter Five
After the burial, the group went back to the Nasi condo.
Letting himself in through the unlocked door of Number 941, Aidan stood with his shoulders against the wall of the entry, watching the mourners converse in hushed tones, broken by outright laughter, as Quent regaled them again and again with Rico stories. Aidan spotted the young woman with the black hair and in the warmth of the lighted room, she looked quite beautiful. An Italian type, he was certain, with high cheekbones, deep-set liquid brown eyes and a full, sensuous mouth. But, his mind was on business. He did notice that her mourning suit, an appropriate black number off the same designer rack as every other woman there, was cut two inches above the knee, revealing legs long for her short height and curves in all the right places.
As soon as he arrived, Libby spotted him. He was a man of about fifty years old with blue eyes that sparked both humor and flint at the same time. A cop, she decided. However, she returned her attention to the group and didn't leave Angela's side. Aidan scanned the group. He had worn his best gray suit and a blue tie over a white shirt, but he looked more like a chauffeur than a member of this elite group. Even so, Carmella passed by with a tray of hors d'oeuvres and offered him some. In a moment, she was back with an Orange Blossom for him.
As he took his first sip, Libby came over to him.
"Hello, I'm Libby Cervallo. I noticed you standing here. You are…"
"I'm Aidan Bonner, Libby, an investigator for Security Insurance Company. You are…"
"I'm one of the family's attorneys and a friend of Rico," she answered. "What brings you here?"
"Pretty gruesome death, don't you think?" answered Aidan.
"The family is in mourning, they are still reeling from shock. I don't think this is the time to conduct an investigation."
"I don't know about that. Some things don't add up, I think that's pretty obvious, and I have a matter concerning millions of dollars to discuss with you. There's a question about a life insurance policy that was taken out shortly before Mr. Nasi's death. Did you know about it? Odd signature, too."
Libby didn't answer. Instead, she pulled out a card from her purse and handed it to Aidan. "Call me at my office tomorrow and we can have a business discussion then. Now, if you're finished here, please go. This family needs privacy. You did know this was a funeral, didn't you?"
This time, Aidan didn't answer. He nodded to Libby briefly and let himself out.
Leaving the building, Aidan pulled a long envelope out of his breast pocket. He had one more piece of business to attend to. "First things first," he said to himself. "That bastard, Professor Schwartz, PhD, commie, emeritus piece of crap at Columbia, who only just passes for human, will be put off a step by this little message." And he plunked the envelope into a corner mailbox, whistling as he walked to the subway.
May 22, 2011
Nicole Zoltack - What Inspires Her
All writers need inspiration. Without inspiration, there's nothing let to write. So where do I turn to for inspiration? I take a nap.
On a more serious note, I have had some awesome dreams that have given me ideas for stories. Once or twice, I've even dreamt about my characters and worked through plot points that way. Some of my dreams are really out there - remember I write fantasy!
I'm also inspired by movies and books and TV shows. I love to people-gawk. Life in general is inspiring to me.
So now I'm inspired to write a new story idea. My next step is to sit down at my computer and just type. Sometimes my idea is just a character and I learn the story as I type it. Other times, it's a scene. Or it could be just the basic idea of a plot. Regardless, I am definitely not a plotter. I write like I read, I want to be surprised by the ending. If I were to plot out the ending (which I have done for a few stories) then I get bored with it (and those said stories - never finished 'em).
Now as a panster, I can write like crazy when the muse inspires. I think the most I ever wrote in one day is 6K. But do I have suffer from writer's block? Personally, I hate that term. I never consider myself as having writer's block. For one thing, I am usually working on more than one project at the same time so if I'm stuck on one, I just work on the next one. But I never find myself completely empty of ideas, I never have nothing I can write.
So that's my writing process. I sit and type and work on multiple projects. My advice for aspiring writers - sit, type, and work on projects that you love. It doesn't matter if you can't write every day. Write when you can. But even if you can't write every day doesn't mean you can't still work on your story. Always think about it - your characters, the next scene, etc. That way, when you do have time to write, you'll never stare at a blinking cursor and a blank Word document.
Check out Nicole's new release!
The Mystical Conch Shell of the Sea has been stolen, and it's up to Selliki, the selkie, to get it back. Selliki sets across the continent of Alethereia to find Arnhem, and Gabrael, the mage she loves. Selliki knows that no union between a selkie and a human have ever had a happy ending, but neither can ignore their feelings. Each night, they experience terrible, real dreams that show how doomed their love is.
The final war between Speica and Arnhem is threatening the entire world. Lucifer has aligned himself with Speica and wants nothing less than to bring about the Apocalypse before its time. In the last battle, cowardice is revealed, promises are broken, and many people die. Trolls fight icthyocentaurs, dwarves armed up against the Drow, angels against demons. Only one kingdom will prevail; that is, if the world doesn't end.
Purchase from Desert Breeze Publishing!
On a more serious note, I have had some awesome dreams that have given me ideas for stories. Once or twice, I've even dreamt about my characters and worked through plot points that way. Some of my dreams are really out there - remember I write fantasy!
I'm also inspired by movies and books and TV shows. I love to people-gawk. Life in general is inspiring to me.
So now I'm inspired to write a new story idea. My next step is to sit down at my computer and just type. Sometimes my idea is just a character and I learn the story as I type it. Other times, it's a scene. Or it could be just the basic idea of a plot. Regardless, I am definitely not a plotter. I write like I read, I want to be surprised by the ending. If I were to plot out the ending (which I have done for a few stories) then I get bored with it (and those said stories - never finished 'em).
Now as a panster, I can write like crazy when the muse inspires. I think the most I ever wrote in one day is 6K. But do I have suffer from writer's block? Personally, I hate that term. I never consider myself as having writer's block. For one thing, I am usually working on more than one project at the same time so if I'm stuck on one, I just work on the next one. But I never find myself completely empty of ideas, I never have nothing I can write.
So that's my writing process. I sit and type and work on multiple projects. My advice for aspiring writers - sit, type, and work on projects that you love. It doesn't matter if you can't write every day. Write when you can. But even if you can't write every day doesn't mean you can't still work on your story. Always think about it - your characters, the next scene, etc. That way, when you do have time to write, you'll never stare at a blinking cursor and a blank Word document.
Check out Nicole's new release!
The Mystical Conch Shell of the Sea has been stolen, and it's up to Selliki, the selkie, to get it back. Selliki sets across the continent of Alethereia to find Arnhem, and Gabrael, the mage she loves. Selliki knows that no union between a selkie and a human have ever had a happy ending, but neither can ignore their feelings. Each night, they experience terrible, real dreams that show how doomed their love is. The final war between Speica and Arnhem is threatening the entire world. Lucifer has aligned himself with Speica and wants nothing less than to bring about the Apocalypse before its time. In the last battle, cowardice is revealed, promises are broken, and many people die. Trolls fight icthyocentaurs, dwarves armed up against the Drow, angels against demons. Only one kingdom will prevail; that is, if the world doesn't end.
Purchase from Desert Breeze Publishing!
May 17, 2011
Montezuma's Treasure and Family Secrets are Themes for Mystery Novel
Mysterious events, the search for Montezuma's treasure, a good-looking rogue, and family secrets! How important is it to learn about the past? Will it make a difference in one's life and the choices we make? To April, it makes a big difference. Knowing about her parentage changes her perspective of life.With a blend of mystery, adventure, humor, and sweet romance, Linda Weaver Clarke creates a story based upon the adventures of a married couple and their three daughters in "Montezuma Intrigue."
When a leather parchment of Montezuma's map is found in great-grandfather Evans' old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. The girls want to search for it but their father is against it for some mysterious reason. With Julia's help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma's treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.
Suko's Notebook wrote, "In the latest book by Linda Weaver Clarke, Montezuma Intrigue, the mysteries continue as this author entrances us with life-like characters and electrifying adventures. The search for Montezuma's treasure is both exciting and memorable--I am spell-bound!"
While searching for Montezuma's treasure, Matthew is trying to get the courage to tell April how he feels about her. How does he tell his kindred friend that she means more to him than just a friend? Oblivious of Matthew's feelings for her, April is gradually learning the importance of her heritage. Who were her ancestors and why has the family kept a certain "secret" all these years? This mystery series includes Anasazi Intrigue, Mayan Intrigue, and Montezuma Intrigue.
Book Trailer:
Book Release Celebration for Mystery/Adventure Novel! Book Giveaway May 23 – June 1: To win a mystery/adventure novel with a touch of romance, leave a comment at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com. But that's not all! You may also be eligible to receive two free e-books as part of this contest.
May 15, 2011
Nicole Zoltack's Road to Publication
I write lots of genres - fantasy/paranormal, historical, horror, YA, romances, and combinations thereof. My favorite to write in is fantasy romance, like my Kingdom of Arnhem series.
Why? I have always been a hopeless romantic. I couldn't wait to fall in love. I had to wait until I was 18 years old to be kissed, but I ended up marrying him. So it's no wonder that I love to write romances.
As for writing fantasy, I love how wide open the genre is. Literally anything is possible. Magic exists. So do mythological creatures. Pegasus. Centaurs, some with dolphin tails (known as icthyocentaurs). Dark elves. Dwarves. Trolls.
I guess I should say high fantasy romance because my fantasy novels take place in a medieval-like setting. Knights, magic, and romance. What more could you want?
So now you know why I write fantasy romance. But how did I get published?
I first learned about Desert Breeze through a publisher chat on a yahoo group. As the chat was winding down, Gail Delaney (the EIC) mentioned that she loved series, especially for fantasy and a few other genres. I mentioned to her that I had an unfinished manuscript that would be part of a series and briefly described it to her. She said to send it to her when it was finished.
The story I had mentioned was a Nano story (National Novel Writing Month when authors around the world try to write a 50K in November). I abandoned all other side projects and focused on the novel until I completed it. After finishing it, I submitted to Gail and waited. Shortly thereafter, she emailed me an acceptance for Woman of Honor.
Desert Breeze is a non-erotic romance publisher, which is perfect for me. My novels tend to have crossover appeal. Woman of Honor is a coming-of-age fantasy romance, so it's definitely for YA and adults.
Anyhow, I had mentioned to Gail about the series during the yahoo chat, and we worked together to figure out the direction that the series could take so that the entire series was fantasy romance, each book centering on a different couple.
Woman of Honor is the tale of young Aislinn, a girl who wants to become a knight and finds love along the way.
Knight of Glory is about Geoffrey as he travels across the continent to find allies for Arnhem, while he tries to decide between two very different, mysterious ladies.
Champion of Valor focuses on Selliki the selkie and Gabrael the mage amidst the finals battles between Arnhem and Speica.
And that's my publication story!
Why? I have always been a hopeless romantic. I couldn't wait to fall in love. I had to wait until I was 18 years old to be kissed, but I ended up marrying him. So it's no wonder that I love to write romances.
As for writing fantasy, I love how wide open the genre is. Literally anything is possible. Magic exists. So do mythological creatures. Pegasus. Centaurs, some with dolphin tails (known as icthyocentaurs). Dark elves. Dwarves. Trolls.
I guess I should say high fantasy romance because my fantasy novels take place in a medieval-like setting. Knights, magic, and romance. What more could you want?
So now you know why I write fantasy romance. But how did I get published?
I first learned about Desert Breeze through a publisher chat on a yahoo group. As the chat was winding down, Gail Delaney (the EIC) mentioned that she loved series, especially for fantasy and a few other genres. I mentioned to her that I had an unfinished manuscript that would be part of a series and briefly described it to her. She said to send it to her when it was finished.
The story I had mentioned was a Nano story (National Novel Writing Month when authors around the world try to write a 50K in November). I abandoned all other side projects and focused on the novel until I completed it. After finishing it, I submitted to Gail and waited. Shortly thereafter, she emailed me an acceptance for Woman of Honor.
Desert Breeze is a non-erotic romance publisher, which is perfect for me. My novels tend to have crossover appeal. Woman of Honor is a coming-of-age fantasy romance, so it's definitely for YA and adults.
Anyhow, I had mentioned to Gail about the series during the yahoo chat, and we worked together to figure out the direction that the series could take so that the entire series was fantasy romance, each book centering on a different couple.
Woman of Honor is the tale of young Aislinn, a girl who wants to become a knight and finds love along the way.
Knight of Glory is about Geoffrey as he travels across the continent to find allies for Arnhem, while he tries to decide between two very different, mysterious ladies.
Champion of Valor focuses on Selliki the selkie and Gabrael the mage amidst the finals battles between Arnhem and Speica.
And that's my publication story!
May 8, 2011
Nicole Zoltack's Kingdom of Arnhem- Book Three: Champion of Valor
Blurb:
The Mystical Conch Shell of the Sea has been stolen, and it's up to Selliki, the selkie, to get it back. Selliki sets across the continent of Alethereia to find Arnhem, and Gabrael, the mage she loves. Selliki knows that no union between a selkie and a human have ever had a happy ending, but neither can ignore their feelings. Each night, they experience terrible, real dreams that show how doomed their love is.
The final war between Speica and Arnhem is threatening the entire world. Lucifer has aligned himself with Speica and wants nothing less than to bring about the Apocalypse before its time. In the last battle, cowardice is revealed, promises are broken, and many people die. Trolls fight icthyocentaurs, dwarves armed up against the Drow, angels against demons. Only one kingdom will prevail; that is, if the world doesn't end.
Excerpt:
Varun fixed her with a stern stare but did not argue the point.
I hope the Speicans will not know how to use the Conch Shell.
Varun shook his head. I'm afraid with their evil and treacherous ways, they will figure out a way to harness its power. But on to other matters, what did you learn from Tara'zai? Did you locate her brother? Naida thought she saw him the other day.
Tara'zai and Ven'jo are missing. I spoke with Mika'la instead.
The selkie leader closed his dark eyes. Then the Conch Shell might not even be somewhere within the ocean. He swam in a tight circle and then shored up beside her. You must go. Join the war, find the Conch Shell. I trust you to find it if it is on land. The rest of us shall remain, rebuilding our city, readying our army, and searching for the Conch Shell down here.
But...
Isn't this what you always wanted? A chance to see if you and that magical man could ever work out?
Selliki stared at the broken sand tower a few feet away. Marriages between selkies and anyone but their own kind ended disastrously. No female selkie had ever been able to give up her true nature to live with complete happiness on two legs. Not without constantly yearning for the sea. In every case, the selkie spouse abandoned their marriage and returned to the sea. In every case. Selliki knew the risk, but she also knew the calling of her heart, and she loved Gabrael. Even so, she shivered. This task would require her to be away from the water for much longer than she had ever been before. She fixed her gaze upon her leader. I will do as you wish.
Good. May the water be gentle in your passing.
And let the water save you from our troubles. Selliki flipped on her fins and swam away. She approached Naida, one of her closest friends. I have to go. Varun has a mission for me.
Compassion swam in Naida's eyes. Will you be able to see Gabrael at least?
Yes, but I must leave now. Tell everyone I'll be back as soon as I can.
I will, and be safe, Selliki. Naida used her strong tail to lift a portion of the broken sand wall.
Selliki watched the other selkies, her people, work to rebuild their underwater domain. Her entire body screamed to help them, but she had no choice. She had to do as Varun bid her. She ignored the confused looks some of the other selkies threw at her and swam toward the surface.
Manufacturer: Nicole Zoltack
ISBN: 978-1-61252-035-3
Length: Plus Novel
Category: Fantasy/Inspirational
Sub-Category: Young Adult
Rating: Sweet
Photography/Artwork: Jenifer Ranieri
Release Date: May 1, 2011
May 4, 2011
A Familiar Evil Book Trailer & Excerpts
Excerpt One
He watched Jordan walk from her black SUV into the police department, adjacent to city hall. He'd been so close to her this morning he could almost see her facial expressions. He closed his eyes and visualized her walking along the trail. Her scent had lingered long after she'd gone, as if it had permeated every leaf in the forest. He recalled how she had peered into the darkness, almost looking right at him.
Had she sensed his presence? Was she scared? She had been the last time they met. He wished he'd been close enough to her this morning to hear what she was saying. Did she tell the good doctor about the last time she was in that section of the woods? Had she shared any of the intimate moments of her captivity?
He let out a contented sigh. It seemed a lifetime ago.
So many years had passed since that summer. His summer of discovery, he liked to call it. It was when the beast inside him was born. The hunger for complete dominance first realized. He wondered if Jordan knew she was responsible for that evolution. She had made him see his full potential, awakened a sleeping giant that begged to be turned loose on the world.
He scanned the street. People passed him as if he was invisible to them—but not for long. Soon, the whole world would know of the Musical Strangler.
Excerpt Two
Inside Seth's kitchen, Jordan opened the refrigerator and took out the pitcher of iced tea. Her heart continued to race. Sam had no right to put her on the spot like that. He knew Seth and Ellie were on his side and that in their opinion she was blowing things out of proportion. He was using them to bully his way back into her life and she didn't like it one bit.
The screen door opened and closed. Jordan didn't have to look to know it was Sam.
"Commitment isn't our problem, Jordan. It's communication." His voice drew closer as he crossed the room. "Why is it you can talk to your family and friends about our marriage, but you can't talk to me about it?"
"I'm not the one that brought it up. Ellie did." She twirled around and glared at him as he leaned across the counter. "You should know. You probably put her up to it."
"What are you talking about?"
The door opened and Ellie walked in. "Guys, please don't argue. I feel like this is my fault. I shouldn't have said anything, Jordan. I'm sorry."
Jordan ignored her apology and continued to stare at Sam. He stared back.
"Come on guys, this is ridiculous," Ellie said, moving closer. "If you two would just sit down and talk... Jordan if you would just tell him."
"Shut up, Ellie!"
Sam's eyes narrowed on Jordan. "Tell me what?"
"Nothing."
Sam glanced over his shoulder, "Tell me what, Ellie?"
Jordan shifted her glare to Ellie, and hoped like crazy she'd keep her mouth shut.
Ellie shook her head before walking back outside.
"What's going on here, Jordan?" When she didn't answer, he came around the counter. "I asked you a question."
"I told her I was confused about us." It was the only answer she could afford to give him.
"Confused how?" he asked in a much softer tone.
She leaned against the sink for support. All the suppressed emotions bubbled to the surface. "My feelings toward you."
"Do you still love me, Jordan?"
Tears welled in her eyes. "I'm not sure how I feel about you, Sam." He moved toward her, but she stopped him with a palm to his chest. "One thing I do know is I can never trust you again."
Sam started to speak as his cell phone rang. He took it from his pocket and answered it, "Agent Russell."
Jordan hurriedly brushed her tears away and placed the pitcher back in the refrigerator.
"I'll have to call you back."
She placed her empty glass in the sink then turned to face him. "Was that Darcy?"
He hesitated briefly. "Yes, but—"
She started to brush past him and he grabbed her arm.
"She's my partner, Jordan. That's it, I swear."
Jordan stared at him through teary eyes. "I don't believe you."
Available in eBook: http://www.amazon.com/A-Familiar-Evil-ebook/dp/B004YDPWN4/
Or print: http://www.amazon.com/Familiar-Evil-Anne-Patrick/dp/1461118514
April 30, 2011
Fantasy Romance Author Nicole Zoltack
Nicole Zoltack has been creating stories since before she could even write. She loves to read everything she can get her hands on but fantasy romance holds a special place in her heart. Nicole is happily married to her college sweetheart and has two adorable sons. In her free time, she loves to ride horses, collect swords, and go to the PA Renaissance Faire, dressed in period garb. She lives in Pennsylvania where she enjoys the four seasons but wishes that winter would stop cutting into the warm springtime.
My interview with Nicole
[Anne] Name one of your favorite books as a child.
[Nicole] I adored Anne of Green Gables. I can't tell you how many times I reread it. Anne was my heroine. She was smart, had spunk, and was my literary best friend. It took me a long time before I read the rest of the series (Now, looking back, I think I didn't want Anne to grow up in my mind), and I enjoyed the later books too.
[Anne] Do you have a favorite author?
[Nicole] I have lots of favorite authors but if I had to pick just one, that would be impossible. I love JRR Tolkien, JK Rowling, CS Lewis (lol so far they all have initials in their names). I also enjoy Diana Gabaldon and Tamora Pierce, and many, many more.
[Anne] Out of all the books you've read, which one comes immediately to your mind? If there is a favorite scene you remember, please share.
[Nicole] I just finished reading Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers so it's fresh in my mind. I really enjoyed it, it's the story of a girl who finds herself caught between an angel and a demon, and falls for both of them. I love the message in the story about the power of love to change someone.
[Anne] Your favorite vacation spot (whether you have been there or not)?
[Nicole] Definitely Hawaii. Hubby and I went there for our honeymoon. We took a weeklong cruise to several of the islands and stayed a few extra nights on the Big Island. It was magical. We rode horses through the water, which was such a dark blue, and visited volcanoes. It was the experience of a lifetime. I would love to go back someday!
[Anne] Which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Nicole] Oh, tough choice! I would go with a custom kitchen. So much time is spent in the kitchen to make food for your family, it makes more sense to pick that. Although if you know me, I have a ton of clothes!
[Anne] It's Saturday afternoon and you're home alone. What are you wearing? And yes, you must have clothes on.
[Nicole] My pj's, which is sometimes a nightgown, sometimes an oversized T-shirt. That's what I'm wearing right now as I type this - an oversized Philadelphia Eagles T-shirt.
[Anne] What's your favorite dish?
[Nicole] Anything Italian. I could eat Italian food 24/7. Mmm.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
Spending time with my family. Watching sports, TV shows, and movies with hubby. I love my Eagles (unfortunately hubby is a Dallas cowboys fan). I also love to read (big surprise there, I'm sure)
[Anne] You've just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you've collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Nicole] I used to always want a Mustang (used to tease hubby that I wanted 2 mustangs - the car and the horse) but now I'm leaning more toward a Corvette.
[Anne] What's your favorite television show? Movie?
[Nicole] My current favorite TV show is The Vampire Diaries. Out of old shows, that would be Lost. My favorite movie of all time is Gone with the Wind. Like books, I can list a lot more than one. Disney's The Three Musketeers, Timeline, While You Were Sleeping, The Phantom of the Opera, Die Hard….
[Anne] You've won a talent show! What act did you perform?
[Nicole] I would sing. I love singing, was a member of my high school and college chorus. I miss singing.
[Anne] Would you rather have the power to be invisible or be able to fly, and why?
[Nicole] To fly. Especially with the rising cost of gas!
[Anne] What was one of the most surprising things you learned during your journey to publication?
[Nicole] How huge a role promotion has, how early you can start with it, and what exactly it entails. I never really thought about promoting until after I had started to write seriously.
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Nicole] With Champion of Valor, I did a lot of research into angels. I love history and religion, so I really enjoyed this research. But what always comes to mind first was when I learned that there had actually been some female knights in the Middle Ages.
[Anne] Where do you go when you need to get inspired to write?
[Nicole] A lot of my inspiration comes from dreams. I tend to wander the land of "what if…" I'm sometimes inspired my movies and TV shows, other books, and just by living life. I love to people-gawk.
[Anne] Do you have any writing quirks?
[Nicole] I know a lot of authors can't write without listening to music. I can't. I tend to get too caught up in the music and sing along to concentrate. I do most of my writing late at night or early in the morning, when the rest of my household is asleep. Sometimes if I get stuck, I find that writing with a pen helps to get the creative juices flowing again.
[Anne] What do you think makes a good story?
[Nicole] Relatable characters, believable characters that grow and change throughout the story, a realistic plot that tugs at the heartstrings.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Nicole] I'm working on a ghost story for a charity anthology and the next short story installment in my What You See is What You Get series with Echelon Press.
[Anne] What's one of the more interesting experiences you've had with one of your readers?
[Nicole] I adore receiving emails from readers. I loved hearing from Shawna that one of her daughters turned down playing with a friend to read my book instead. Not necessarily interesting, I know, but it made my day! (Actually, it made a whole lot longer than a day.)
[Anne] Complete this scene: It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it, he was right behind me. Curse this fog, I can't see where I parked my car. I tightened my grip on my car keys, the metal biting into my palm, the only weapon I had.
I glanced at him. He wore a long trench coat, his head down. He was so close that the tail of his jacket brushed against my jeans. I stepped to the side and hoped her would pass me. It was bad enough that a terrible storm seemed to be on the way and I was a long way from home. I didn't need any more trouble.
He paused and looked at me, his eyes dark as a moonless night. "Be careful what you want," he said in a deep growl.
I blinked and brought up a trembling hand, my car key pointed toward him. "Excuse me?"
He glanced up at the dark clouds swirling overhead. "It looks like a storm's coming. You better get home."
I stared at him. His voice was now completely different, softer, a little higher pitched, his eyes a light blue. "You too," I squeaked out.
I watched him slink away, and he slowly disappeared into the fog.
It started to rain a few seconds later, and I ran to my car. I shoved the key into the lock and climbed in. Before I turned the car on, I stared through the windshield. An unsettling sensation filled me, and I slowly started to drive.
Be careful what you want.
What did I want?
At this moment, I wanted nothing more than to know who the man was and why he had said that to me.
As if he materialized out of my thoughts, the man stood before my car. I slammed on the brakes but the rain caused my tires to slid, and I slammed into him. I shoved my car into park and threw open the door. I ran to him, the ran beating onto me like pellets. "I'm so sorry, are you okay?"
The man stared at me, unblinking. With a sob, I touched his throat. No pulse. I had killed him.
A sob burst out of my throat like a banshee wail.
Be careful what you want.
My interview with Nicole[Anne] Name one of your favorite books as a child.
[Nicole] I adored Anne of Green Gables. I can't tell you how many times I reread it. Anne was my heroine. She was smart, had spunk, and was my literary best friend. It took me a long time before I read the rest of the series (Now, looking back, I think I didn't want Anne to grow up in my mind), and I enjoyed the later books too.
[Anne] Do you have a favorite author?
[Nicole] I have lots of favorite authors but if I had to pick just one, that would be impossible. I love JRR Tolkien, JK Rowling, CS Lewis (lol so far they all have initials in their names). I also enjoy Diana Gabaldon and Tamora Pierce, and many, many more.
[Anne] Out of all the books you've read, which one comes immediately to your mind? If there is a favorite scene you remember, please share.
[Nicole] I just finished reading Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers so it's fresh in my mind. I really enjoyed it, it's the story of a girl who finds herself caught between an angel and a demon, and falls for both of them. I love the message in the story about the power of love to change someone.
[Anne] Your favorite vacation spot (whether you have been there or not)?
[Nicole] Definitely Hawaii. Hubby and I went there for our honeymoon. We took a weeklong cruise to several of the islands and stayed a few extra nights on the Big Island. It was magical. We rode horses through the water, which was such a dark blue, and visited volcanoes. It was the experience of a lifetime. I would love to go back someday!
[Anne] Which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Nicole] Oh, tough choice! I would go with a custom kitchen. So much time is spent in the kitchen to make food for your family, it makes more sense to pick that. Although if you know me, I have a ton of clothes!
[Anne] It's Saturday afternoon and you're home alone. What are you wearing? And yes, you must have clothes on.
[Nicole] My pj's, which is sometimes a nightgown, sometimes an oversized T-shirt. That's what I'm wearing right now as I type this - an oversized Philadelphia Eagles T-shirt.
[Anne] What's your favorite dish?
[Nicole] Anything Italian. I could eat Italian food 24/7. Mmm.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
Spending time with my family. Watching sports, TV shows, and movies with hubby. I love my Eagles (unfortunately hubby is a Dallas cowboys fan). I also love to read (big surprise there, I'm sure)
[Anne] You've just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you've collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Nicole] I used to always want a Mustang (used to tease hubby that I wanted 2 mustangs - the car and the horse) but now I'm leaning more toward a Corvette.
[Anne] What's your favorite television show? Movie?
[Nicole] My current favorite TV show is The Vampire Diaries. Out of old shows, that would be Lost. My favorite movie of all time is Gone with the Wind. Like books, I can list a lot more than one. Disney's The Three Musketeers, Timeline, While You Were Sleeping, The Phantom of the Opera, Die Hard….
[Anne] You've won a talent show! What act did you perform?
[Nicole] I would sing. I love singing, was a member of my high school and college chorus. I miss singing.
[Anne] Would you rather have the power to be invisible or be able to fly, and why?
[Nicole] To fly. Especially with the rising cost of gas!
[Anne] What was one of the most surprising things you learned during your journey to publication?
[Nicole] How huge a role promotion has, how early you can start with it, and what exactly it entails. I never really thought about promoting until after I had started to write seriously.
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Nicole] With Champion of Valor, I did a lot of research into angels. I love history and religion, so I really enjoyed this research. But what always comes to mind first was when I learned that there had actually been some female knights in the Middle Ages.
[Anne] Where do you go when you need to get inspired to write?
[Nicole] A lot of my inspiration comes from dreams. I tend to wander the land of "what if…" I'm sometimes inspired my movies and TV shows, other books, and just by living life. I love to people-gawk.
[Anne] Do you have any writing quirks?
[Nicole] I know a lot of authors can't write without listening to music. I can't. I tend to get too caught up in the music and sing along to concentrate. I do most of my writing late at night or early in the morning, when the rest of my household is asleep. Sometimes if I get stuck, I find that writing with a pen helps to get the creative juices flowing again.
[Anne] What do you think makes a good story?
[Nicole] Relatable characters, believable characters that grow and change throughout the story, a realistic plot that tugs at the heartstrings.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Nicole] I'm working on a ghost story for a charity anthology and the next short story installment in my What You See is What You Get series with Echelon Press.
[Anne] What's one of the more interesting experiences you've had with one of your readers?
[Nicole] I adore receiving emails from readers. I loved hearing from Shawna that one of her daughters turned down playing with a friend to read my book instead. Not necessarily interesting, I know, but it made my day! (Actually, it made a whole lot longer than a day.)
[Anne] Complete this scene: It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it, he was right behind me. Curse this fog, I can't see where I parked my car. I tightened my grip on my car keys, the metal biting into my palm, the only weapon I had.
I glanced at him. He wore a long trench coat, his head down. He was so close that the tail of his jacket brushed against my jeans. I stepped to the side and hoped her would pass me. It was bad enough that a terrible storm seemed to be on the way and I was a long way from home. I didn't need any more trouble.
He paused and looked at me, his eyes dark as a moonless night. "Be careful what you want," he said in a deep growl.
I blinked and brought up a trembling hand, my car key pointed toward him. "Excuse me?"
He glanced up at the dark clouds swirling overhead. "It looks like a storm's coming. You better get home."
I stared at him. His voice was now completely different, softer, a little higher pitched, his eyes a light blue. "You too," I squeaked out.
I watched him slink away, and he slowly disappeared into the fog.
It started to rain a few seconds later, and I ran to my car. I shoved the key into the lock and climbed in. Before I turned the car on, I stared through the windshield. An unsettling sensation filled me, and I slowly started to drive.
Be careful what you want.
What did I want?
At this moment, I wanted nothing more than to know who the man was and why he had said that to me.
As if he materialized out of my thoughts, the man stood before my car. I slammed on the brakes but the rain caused my tires to slid, and I slammed into him. I shoved my car into park and threw open the door. I ran to him, the ran beating onto me like pellets. "I'm so sorry, are you okay?"
The man stared at me, unblinking. With a sob, I touched his throat. No pulse. I had killed him.
A sob burst out of my throat like a banshee wail.
Be careful what you want.
And the winner is....
Celia Yeary! Congratulations, Celia, you've won an autographed copy of one of Sharon's books.
I want to thank Sharon again for visiting this month. It was an honor to have her here and I really enjoyed learning more about her and her wonderful books. And who could forget the memorable visit from Oliver. What a hunk!
Don't forget to pick up a copy of Sharon's new book Charade of Hearts, starring the one and only Oliver.
While scuba diving off the coast of Diamond Head with her diving partner on a quest to find a family heirloom, underwater photographer Dominique St. John witnesses his brutal murder and photographs it, ensnaring her in a deadly jewel ring. And when the investigating officer turns out to be her partner's identical twin, a man she knew nothing about, her life becomes a Charade of Hearts.
Welcome to the world of greed, intrigue, deception and murder. And at its core is a blue diamond worth millions.
As honest as his twin was corrupt, Honolulu Homicide Detective Oliver Carvalho must convince Dominique that her diving partner and best friend was a crook. In a race against time, Oliver must rescue Dominique from a ruthless killer. But his biggest challenge proves to be mending a broken heart torn by betrayal that can only be redeemed by love.
AVAILABLE NOW!
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/charade-of-hearts-p-4346.html
I want to thank Sharon again for visiting this month. It was an honor to have her here and I really enjoyed learning more about her and her wonderful books. And who could forget the memorable visit from Oliver. What a hunk!
Don't forget to pick up a copy of Sharon's new book Charade of Hearts, starring the one and only Oliver.
While scuba diving off the coast of Diamond Head with her diving partner on a quest to find a family heirloom, underwater photographer Dominique St. John witnesses his brutal murder and photographs it, ensnaring her in a deadly jewel ring. And when the investigating officer turns out to be her partner's identical twin, a man she knew nothing about, her life becomes a Charade of Hearts.Welcome to the world of greed, intrigue, deception and murder. And at its core is a blue diamond worth millions.
As honest as his twin was corrupt, Honolulu Homicide Detective Oliver Carvalho must convince Dominique that her diving partner and best friend was a crook. In a race against time, Oliver must rescue Dominique from a ruthless killer. But his biggest challenge proves to be mending a broken heart torn by betrayal that can only be redeemed by love.
AVAILABLE NOW!
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/charade-of-hearts-p-4346.html
April 28, 2011
The Amazing Sharon Donovan - What inspires her to write!
Hope inspires me to write. I don't plot, outline or suffer from writer's block. I just write. After my near fatal heart attack in August, my heart echoes the quote of Isaac Asimov.
"If my doctor told me I had only six months to live, I wouldn't brood. I'd type a little faster."
I'd like to share with you my journey to publication. My life has been a long and winding road, full of challenge, heartache and passion. I've been blessed with the gifts of faith and hope. Faith in myself and hope for a brighter tomorrow. I'm Irish, highly emotional, stubborn as all get up and fiercely determined. What didn't kill me made me stronger.
After a long bout with diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes leading to progressive blindness, my life took a complete 180. I went from being a legal secretary where I prepared legal document for judges to not being able to see the paper, let alone the print. But worst than that, I could no longer pursue my passion of painting. I battled the retinopathy for two decades. Vision came and went. After undergoing twenty painful surgeries, I lost the battle and am now totally blind.
With a strong creative muse and nowhere to channel it, life became as dull as my existence. I was introduced to the world of audio books and fell in love with romantic suspense novels. The more I listened the more I began writing one in my head. But how would I put my words to paper if I couldn't see what I was typing? Refusing to give up on the idea, I explored other options. If there's a will there's a way.
When I heard about a computer with adaptive software, converting text to synthesized speech, hope soared. With a new outlook and a new direction, I challenged myself to write a romantic suspense. How hard could it be after all.
Once I'd written my first full length novel, I envisioned agents and Hollywood movie producers beating a path to my door. Humming a happy tune, I whipped out twenty-one submission packages to top New York agents. Then I sat back, waiting for the phone to ring off the hook. It never rang. But slowly but surely, all agents responded to my romantic suspense, each a rejection letter. The worst of the lot said simply, "Your project does not excite us."
With that little devil perched on my shoulder once more, my first reaction was to fire back an email of attack. Everything in me wanted to scream they'd be sorry when what they so carelessly pitched in the trash wound up a New York Times bestseller. But my psychology classes kicked in, and Freud's ego component mediated between the devil and the angel. I orchestrated a new plan of attack, enrolling in creative writing classes, critique groups and attending conferences. It didn't take long to realize why my novel was rejected. Using knowledge as power, I learned to accept criticism from group members. And while attending a conference, The door to Wild Rose Press was opened.
One more grain of knowledge to add to the list. I was marketing my novel in the wrong genre. While it had elements of romance, it did not fit the standard romance category and was rejected once more.
Unwilling to ditch the dream of having my first novel published, I set it aside on my hard drive. For the next two years, I focused on short stories of romance and had several short stories published by White Rose Publishing. Looking back now, I view the petals of the white roses as snowflakes from heaven. They were sent to me as messengers, reminding me that writing is a gift that takes time to craft. The old saying came to mind. "Stop and smell the roses." Before my rosettes could blossom into full-grown roses, I needed to nurture them with tender loving care.
After more writing classes and critiques, I felt ready to move onward to a mission near and dear to my heart. I wrote Echo of a Raven, a book about my struggles with diabetic retinopathy, donating a percentage of proceeds to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) fight for a cure. More confident in my writing skills, I wrote a full length romantic suspense. Her Biggest Fan was contracted by Wild Rose Press. A month later, the same publishing house contracted Charade of Hearts as one of the books in their Jewel of the Night series.
It was time to tackle my first novel, still collecting dust on my hard drive.
While polishing it to the best of my ability, I recalled the words of a teacher in my writing class. She said the first book written is rarely the first book sold. Truer words were never spoken. After twenty-one rejection letters, three title changes and numerous rewrites, Mask of the Betrayer has a home with Whimsical Publications.
Rejection letters hurt, but for every rejection there is acceptance. The secret to all of this is faith. Faith will open doors. What's the most valuable lesson I've learned through all of this? I'm a better writer today than I was yesterday, but not as good as I will be tomorrow. Final words of wisdom for all aspiring writers. Never give up on a dream.
Sharon Donovan lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her family. Prior to the loss of her vision, she was a legal secretary for the Court of Common Pleas where she prepared cases for judges in Domestic Relations. Painting was her passion. When she could no longer paint, she began attending creative writing classes and memoir workshops. After a long and winding road, a new dream rose. Today, instead of painting her pictures on canvas, Sharon paints her pictures with words.
Sharon writes stories of inspiration and suspense. She has certificates in business and medical transcription. She is a published author with The Wild Rose Press, White Rose Publishing, Whimsical Publications and Chicken Soup for the Soul. Echo of a Raven is a CTRR recipient, and The Claddagh Ring is a CAPA nominee. Lasting Love earned readers pick of the month at Find a Great Romance. To read excerpts and reviews of Sharon's books and to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website:
www.sharonadonovan.com
Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win Sharon's book!
"If my doctor told me I had only six months to live, I wouldn't brood. I'd type a little faster."
I'd like to share with you my journey to publication. My life has been a long and winding road, full of challenge, heartache and passion. I've been blessed with the gifts of faith and hope. Faith in myself and hope for a brighter tomorrow. I'm Irish, highly emotional, stubborn as all get up and fiercely determined. What didn't kill me made me stronger.
After a long bout with diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes leading to progressive blindness, my life took a complete 180. I went from being a legal secretary where I prepared legal document for judges to not being able to see the paper, let alone the print. But worst than that, I could no longer pursue my passion of painting. I battled the retinopathy for two decades. Vision came and went. After undergoing twenty painful surgeries, I lost the battle and am now totally blind.
With a strong creative muse and nowhere to channel it, life became as dull as my existence. I was introduced to the world of audio books and fell in love with romantic suspense novels. The more I listened the more I began writing one in my head. But how would I put my words to paper if I couldn't see what I was typing? Refusing to give up on the idea, I explored other options. If there's a will there's a way.
When I heard about a computer with adaptive software, converting text to synthesized speech, hope soared. With a new outlook and a new direction, I challenged myself to write a romantic suspense. How hard could it be after all.
Once I'd written my first full length novel, I envisioned agents and Hollywood movie producers beating a path to my door. Humming a happy tune, I whipped out twenty-one submission packages to top New York agents. Then I sat back, waiting for the phone to ring off the hook. It never rang. But slowly but surely, all agents responded to my romantic suspense, each a rejection letter. The worst of the lot said simply, "Your project does not excite us."
With that little devil perched on my shoulder once more, my first reaction was to fire back an email of attack. Everything in me wanted to scream they'd be sorry when what they so carelessly pitched in the trash wound up a New York Times bestseller. But my psychology classes kicked in, and Freud's ego component mediated between the devil and the angel. I orchestrated a new plan of attack, enrolling in creative writing classes, critique groups and attending conferences. It didn't take long to realize why my novel was rejected. Using knowledge as power, I learned to accept criticism from group members. And while attending a conference, The door to Wild Rose Press was opened.
One more grain of knowledge to add to the list. I was marketing my novel in the wrong genre. While it had elements of romance, it did not fit the standard romance category and was rejected once more.
Unwilling to ditch the dream of having my first novel published, I set it aside on my hard drive. For the next two years, I focused on short stories of romance and had several short stories published by White Rose Publishing. Looking back now, I view the petals of the white roses as snowflakes from heaven. They were sent to me as messengers, reminding me that writing is a gift that takes time to craft. The old saying came to mind. "Stop and smell the roses." Before my rosettes could blossom into full-grown roses, I needed to nurture them with tender loving care.
After more writing classes and critiques, I felt ready to move onward to a mission near and dear to my heart. I wrote Echo of a Raven, a book about my struggles with diabetic retinopathy, donating a percentage of proceeds to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) fight for a cure. More confident in my writing skills, I wrote a full length romantic suspense. Her Biggest Fan was contracted by Wild Rose Press. A month later, the same publishing house contracted Charade of Hearts as one of the books in their Jewel of the Night series.
It was time to tackle my first novel, still collecting dust on my hard drive.
While polishing it to the best of my ability, I recalled the words of a teacher in my writing class. She said the first book written is rarely the first book sold. Truer words were never spoken. After twenty-one rejection letters, three title changes and numerous rewrites, Mask of the Betrayer has a home with Whimsical Publications.
Rejection letters hurt, but for every rejection there is acceptance. The secret to all of this is faith. Faith will open doors. What's the most valuable lesson I've learned through all of this? I'm a better writer today than I was yesterday, but not as good as I will be tomorrow. Final words of wisdom for all aspiring writers. Never give up on a dream.
Sharon Donovan lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her family. Prior to the loss of her vision, she was a legal secretary for the Court of Common Pleas where she prepared cases for judges in Domestic Relations. Painting was her passion. When she could no longer paint, she began attending creative writing classes and memoir workshops. After a long and winding road, a new dream rose. Today, instead of painting her pictures on canvas, Sharon paints her pictures with words.
Sharon writes stories of inspiration and suspense. She has certificates in business and medical transcription. She is a published author with The Wild Rose Press, White Rose Publishing, Whimsical Publications and Chicken Soup for the Soul. Echo of a Raven is a CTRR recipient, and The Claddagh Ring is a CAPA nominee. Lasting Love earned readers pick of the month at Find a Great Romance. To read excerpts and reviews of Sharon's books and to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website:
www.sharonadonovan.com
Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win Sharon's book!
New Release - A Familiar Evil - Excerpts!
"You're out there watching me. I can feel you. What do you want? Why did you come back here?"
Jordan Russell had the perfect life until the brutal monster from her childhood resurfaced, opening up scars she thought were healed. With the hope of finally finding closure Jordan leaves her cheating husband, and her career in the FBI, and returns to where her nightmare began. But what awaits her in Thorny Creek will push her to the very edge of sanity and bring her face to face with her abductor.
Excerpt #1
"Excuse me. I'm looking for Chief Russell."
Jordan's stomach did a nosedive at the familiar voice of her soon-to-be-ex-husband.
"You found her," Frank answered.
Jordan looked up just as Sam smiled. "Indeed I have." He started toward her desk.
Colleen barged through the opened door. "Chief, there's an Agent Russell here to see…oh, I guess you found her."
"Agent Russell," Frank repeated. He turned back to Jordan, "Isn't Russell your married name?" He then shifted his gaze back to Sam, "That must mean you're her husband."
"Not for much longer." Jordan hurried around her desk and ushered Frank out the door. "You'll be hearing from me." She closed the door and looked at Sam. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm here at your request."
"I pacifically requested someone from the Charlotte field office." Anyone but him.
He looked at her with that gorgeous smile that used to make her go weak in the knees. "And they forwarded that request to Agent Haines, who assigned me."
"We'll see about that." Jordan marched back to her desk, and was four digits into Haines' cell phone number when Sam pressed his finger down on the button and disconnected the call. Eighteen and a half months of built-up rage boiled to the surface. She doubled her right fist and spun around with lighting fury.
Sam, just as quick, stopped the fist within inches of his jaw. With his free hand he took the phone from her left hand and placed it back in its cradle. Jordan felt his hot breath on her face as he peered down at her, and was keenly aware of the heat generating from his body through the hand which tightened around her wrist.
"Let me help you, Jordan…please."
She swallowed hard, summoned all her courage, and met his smoldering gaze. "I need a profiler who can tell me exactly what I'm up against here."
"Don't tell me you've lost your touch."
She ignored his smirk. "I need a fresh pair of eyes who can look at this guy objectively."
"Who hasn't allowed themselves to get too personal?"
"I just need someone other than you," she spat.
"Too bad, you're stuck with me. Now what do you say I release your hand and you don't take my head off? Or we can continue to provide the day's entertainment for your co-workers."
Jordan shifted her gaze to the glass separating her office from the command center. A half dozen familiar faces scattered like rats. She twisted free from his grip, grabbed her cap from her desk and shoved it down over her head. "Fine!" She was already halfway out the door before she realized he wasn't with her. She turned back and found him smiling at her. "Are you coming or not?"
Excerpt #2
He watched Jordan walk from her black SUV into the police department, adjacent to city hall. He'd been so close to her this morning he could almost see her facial expressions. He closed his eyes and visualized her walking along the trail. Her scent had lingered long after she'd gone, as if it had permeated every leaf in the forest. He recalled how she had peered into the darkness, almost looking right at him.
Had she sensed his presence? Was she scared? She had been the last time they met. He wished he'd been close enough to her this morning to hear what she was saying. Did she tell the good doctor about the last time she was in that section of the woods? Had she shared any of the intimate moments of her captivity?
He let out a contented sigh. It seemed a lifetime ago.
So many years had passed since that summer. His summer of discovery, he liked to call it. It was when the beast inside him was born. The hunger for complete dominance first realized. He wondered if Jordan knew she was responsible for that evolution. She had made him see his full potential, awakened a sleeping giant that begged to be turned loose on the world.
He scanned the street. People passed him as if he was invisible to them—but not for long. Soon, the whole world would know of the Musical Strangler.
You can purchase A Familiar Evil in eBook http://www.amazon.com/A-Familiar-Evil-ebook/dp/B004YDPWN4/ or print http://www.amazon.com/dp/1461118514 Coming soon to other online bookstores!
