Jean C. Joachim's Blog: Stories of Love and Passion, page 56

ANNOUCING RELEASE OF "CALLIE'S HEART" NEW WESTERN ROMANCE

MEET THE AUTHOR OF UPCOMING NEW WESTERN ROMANCE, CALLIE'S HEART, KATHLEEN TIGHE BALL!


1.     How old were you when you knew you wanted to become a writer?I was in my forties when I started to write. I've only been writing a little over two years.2.     What did you do for a living in your "previous" life? I've worked at banks mostly.Do you have a family? Yes, I have wonderful family. I've been married almost 23 years to my wonderful husband, Bruce. I have one son, Steven, who is at marine boot camp. We recently added my daughter--in--law, Brittany and her three year old son Colt to our family. I'm one of five children and I have been blessed to have been supported from the beginning by my siblings, my Father and my numerous cousins3.     What genre do you write?  I write Contemporary Western Romance4.     Are you a plotter or a pantser? I'm more of a pantser. I have some idea where I'm going. It's the getting there that is fun.5.     Do your characters ever take over when you're writing? My characters always take over. Especially the ones that were to be really really minor-- they fight for their fair share of the story.6.     Do you get inspiration from real people or places? I've always read Western Romances. We were transferred to Texas six years ago. I have been soaking up s much Texas culture as I can. I actually go horseback riding.7.     Would you like to be any of your heroines? I would like to be Callie from Callie's Heart-- after the happily ever after.
8.     Would you marry any of your heroes?  They are all tall and handsome with chiseled body and brawny arms. I could live with that.            9.Do you do a lot of editing before you submit a manuscript?  Yes I do. I learn more and more about writing and I'm constantly honing my novels. 

 Now, some personal questions:
1) Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate
2   Do you listen to music when you write? What do you listen to? Not often . I like Classic rock.
3) Favorite color?green
4) Black, white or gray? Gray-- I have an accounting degree and real world accounting is gray.
5) Favorite ice cream flavor? Ben and Jerry's-- the one with brownies and cheesecake
6) Favorite line of description from one of your books. His arm muscles bulged as he pulled. His back muscles tightened and she could remember the feel of him under her hands. He glistened with sweat and his abs made her insides coil.

    7) Favorite dialogue from one of your books. ''You are my heart, my soul, my best friend. I've been lost without you.'' He kissed her forehead and pulled her tight against him. ''I'm never letting you go again.'' 2    8) Favorite minor character from your book. Noreen-- the older sassy waitress that knows the 411 on everyone.      9) Dog or cat? Cat I have two Tiger and Callie    10)  Country or city? Country    11)  Beach or mountains? mountains--I burn to easily at the beach     12) Skirts or pants? Pants     13) Early morning or late night? Early morning.    14) Cruise in the Caribbean or camping in Yellowstone National Park? Cruise-- a balcony room please.    A bit about the book
Callie Daniels' mother has one dying wish. She wants neighboring rancher, Garrett O'Neill, to marry her seventeen-year-old daughter. It's not supposed to be a conventional marriage. Garrett O'Neill would keep Callie's ranch safe and Callie would go away to college.                                                           Four years later, Callie comes home with stars in her eyes and happily ever after in her heart. She plans to make their marriage real until finds the new housekeeper, Sylvie in Garrett's arms.Heartbroken, Callie takes off to her own house, which they closed up four years ago. She stays there with Old Henry, a longtime friend and ranch hand, until her new horse injures her. Garrett forces Callie to move back in to his house.Callie finally gets her heart's desire. Alone in a line shack, they make sweet love for the first time. Unfortunately, the love light is gone from Garret's eyes the next morning.
ON SALE APRIL 1 AT THE DESERT BREEZE WEBSITE!
WATCH FOR AN EXCERPT AND BUY LINKS NEXT WEDNESDAY!

TUESDAY TALES - TO THE PROMPT "NIGHT"

This is from my WIP with Ben Tanner called "Love, Lost & Found"...

She took the last bite of her food and smiled. It was delicious...as delicious as the soft evening air...as delicious as the dark blue night sky and as delicious as the handsome man smiling across the table at her.
    "A walk sounds wonderful." She wiped her mouth with her napkin. They walked back to the resort in silence, not touching, moving closer then stepping away. Uncertainty was in the air. When they got near the beach, Tara slipped her high-heeled sandals off and stuck her finger through the loops, dangling them from one hand.  She extended her hand hesitantly in his direction. He slowly joined his fingers with hers.
"I…uhhh," he started, but didn't finish.I can't believe I'm acting this way around a woman I just met."What?" Tara stopped to face him, dropping his hand."It's…just…I've had so much pain…I…""You're worried about me?"He nodded. The moon bathed her in soft, shimmery light adding to her beauty.  They stared at each other at a safe distance for a minute. Tara took his hand and laced her fingers with his again, pulling him closer. They walked on in silence for a little bit. She broke from him to lean against a palm tree and gaze at the moon. He joined her, looking up as well."What do you see?" He asked her."I see a new beginning...for me...and for you." He put his arm around her shoulders. Tears clouded her eyes. She turned her face away from him but he pulled her to him. She hid her face in his chest as her tears fell. "No need for tears around me. I'd never hurt you."She looked up into his eyes."I'd never hurt you either," she murmured.At those words, he pulled her close to hug her. Feeling her warm body against his, under the moonlight, on the crystal beaches, his heart raced while his mind was at ease. It was a long time since he held a woman in his arms or kissed one, either.  If you're looking for romance in paperback. click HERE and you'll go right to my other blog showcasing my paperback books.Or visit my website

Sweet Saturday Sample of "Now and Forever 2, the Book of Danny"

This scene takes place at Callie & Mac's house. Danny and Eliza are having dinner there. Now and Forever 2, the Book of Danny is a free-standing book. You don't have to have read book 1 to understand book 2.
                  ____________________________
Dinner was a fairly chaotic affair as Kitty spilled her milk, Jason got catsup all over his light blue shirt and Callie accidentally knocked the salad bowl on the floor. Fortunately, it didn't break.
Is it always like this when you have kids? He shot a questioning glance at Eliza who was scooping salad off the floor.

She laughed and shrugged her shoulders.
After dinner, everyone helped clean up.
"I've got my first square dance tomorrow night," Danny announced, returning the salad bowl to the kitchen.
"What fun! I wish I could go with you," Callie said.
"Eliza is coming."
Callie looked at her girlfriend and raised an eyebrow, but said nothing.
"Do you play baseball in the Army," Jason asked.
'No, but I can play here. Do you play?"
Jason nodded and ran into the other room, returning moments later with his baseball and glove. While the men took Jason outside for a game of catch, Callie and Eliza finished cleaning up in the kitchen and put Kitty to bed.
 "Are you dating Danny?" Callie asked.
"Hmmm?" Eliza muttered, her eyes trained on the dishes, turned away from Callie's stare.
"You're here with him, you're going out with him tomorrow. You two are spending a lot of time together."
"Just helping him make social connections here. He doesn't know anyone else and..."
"Baloney. Can't fool me. I know a couple when I see one."
Eliza kept washing dishes, refusing to meet Callie's gaze.
"Simon is a stiff. He went off to Europe without you. I don't think he's good enough for you."
"And you think a man ten years younger than I am is?" Eliza inquired raising one eyebrow.
"Danny's special…not like other guys. He's not a phony or a liar."
"Sort of like Kyle?"
"And Mac, too. So are you seeing each other?"
"Sort of…a few dates and—"Eliza shrugged.
"I told Mac you were and he said you weren't. Hah! Men never know these things. You are good for Danny," Callie said, with a smile.
"What does he need an old lady like me for?"
"You're not an old lady. You're kind and caring, giving him stability…good sense. Plus you're very pretty. Danny likes pretty women."
_______________________________________________________
 A bit about the book:

Can the newest professor at Kensington State escape his previous life as a killer? Leaving the Army didn't mean the war left him so Capt. Danny Maine, now teaching English, must find a way to lead a normal life. Finding love and rekindling an old friendship are not enough to defeat old demons. Danny Maine fights to free himself from war memories and dangerous men, hoping that a new love and a new Glock will bring him peace. Now and Forever 2, the Book of Danny is a heartfelt story of love, loss and ultimate triumph that will touch your heart. Available in ebook and paperback 
AMAZON BARNES & NOBLESECRET CRAVINGSALL ROMANCE eBOOKSPAPERBACK

SPECIAL INTERVIEW! THE HEROINES OF REBOUND AND THE PERFECT SCORE COME CLEAN!

Today's interview features Claire LeMay from Rebound and Shelley Longstaff from The Perfect Score (Books 1 and 2 in the Love and Balance series). Former colleagues and best friends, they talk about what it was like to share their story.    1. Are you upset your name is not in the title? Claire: No, not really. How could I be? My picture is on the front cover! That's so exciting!Shelley: Yeah, that is cool. How they managed to capture our images like that is beyond me. Is that considered stalking when they snap your picture like that without you knowing?Claire: Ha! You posed for that, remember?Shelley: *snickers* Yeah, I'm just messing with Jean and Kellie. But you have to admit they captured your moment with Justin perfectly.Claire: *sighs dreamily* I know… How did they do that? They caught the background perfectly of the gym, and I'll never forget that moment with Justin.Shelley: Jack and I had to recreate those shrewd looks on our faces. We still laugh about how he threatened to sue me my first day on the job!2.     Do you have any annoying habits your author did not share with us in your book? Claire: I don't have any annoying habits.Shelley: *snorts in laughter* Uh, former roommate here! Claire: *crosses arms over chest* What annoying habits do I have?
Shelley: You can be so serious for one.Claire: *rolls eyes* Is that really an annoying habit? That's more of a personality trait.Shelley: Semantics…Claire: Hey! I've loosened up a lot. I mean, I did realize I was in charge of my life and moved to be with Justin. Now he and I use the gym for more than coaching purposes AND on a regular basis I might add…Shelley: Woo-hoo! Live on the edge woman! *laughs*Claire: Oh shut up. I could never be like you with a different lover every other week, but now who is serious? You've got Jack and you two are having – Shelley: Ssssshhhh!! Don't spoil my story for Kellie's readers! 
3.     Are you happy with the profession your author chose for you or would you rather be working at something totally different and why? Claire: I've always loved gymnastics and dancing, so to be able to teach both now as a profession is a dream come true.Shelley: Always loved gymnastics with a passion, so I can't imagine doing anything else. I can't imagine why Kellie gave up coaching it so she could write books. But at least it gives her a chance to tell our stories!Claire: *grabs Shelley by the arm* And have you read her other ones? *fans face* Steamy!4.     Now for a personal question. Is there enough  sex in the book for you? Would you have liked more? *Claire and Shelley share a look, then speak simultaneously* Never enough sex!! *they laugh*  5.     Did you author handle your "love" scenes the way you like or was she too explicit or not explicit enough? Claire: *blushes* Well, I lived it but reading the way she wrote it…*blush deepens* It's a little strange that the public will know just how good it was.Shelley: *smacks Claire in the shoulder* Oh get over yourself. I loved reading about my exploits with Jack. The only thing I'd wish she'd gotten around to writing was a shower scene for us. We never did get to that…6.     Is you're hero/heroine a good kisser? *both women answer with a resounding YES!*Claire: *sighs happily* I've always loved Justin's kisses, the way his lips feel on mine…the rest of the world just melts away.Shelley: Jack wins hands down. It was our first kiss that made me want so much more from a man than I'd ever wanted before.7.     Did your author listen to you when you tried to redirect her? Shelley: Kellie is always very good at listening. Sometimes we go off on a tangent and then she takes a look at the story and suggests we change a few things to make sure everything makes sense.Claire: We had to re-write a couple of times to get everything just right. It took Justin and I a while to be able to tell her our story. But once we all worked together, it came out great.
8.     Did your story end too soon? Claire: Well, the story never really is over, is it? A reader can always use their imagination to take us to the next place in our lives. Shelley: *giggles* Or a reader can always go back and read the juicy parts *wink*Claire: *laughs* They can do that too. But we all make brief appearances throughout the series, so you know what we're up to.9.     Who was your favorite supporting character? Both answer together: Each other!Claire: Aww…Shelley: Oh… I love you.Claire: I love you too. *they share a hug*

 A little bit about Rebound
Claire LeMay is at the top of her game – she's head of a prominent gymnastics facility with her gymnasts winning awards for her outstanding choreography. Now her biggest challenge is to coach alongside the man she's avoided for three years after he demanded she live in his shadow instead of forging her own path.

After sinking every penny of his inheritance into his state-of-the-art gymnastics facility, Justin Black has achieved his dream. But even with hundreds of members and well-trained coaches, when Claire's presence invades his space, he reluctantly admits she's the one thing missing in his life. Oblivious as to why she walked out on him three years ago, he attempts to call a truce.
As their old passion tumbles out faster than a gymnast sprinting down the vault runway, they realize they are in the same impossible position as they were three years ago. Are they destined to repeat the same old routine or will they be able to choreograph a new one?
Buy it from Secret Cravings Publishing or AMAZON

A little bit about The Perfect Score
 Shelley Longstaff finally has her chance to be in charge only to rue the day when she is asked to train the dreaded Anna Fortier, a gymnast who has no sense of sportsmanship and makes everyone in her vicinity miserable. When Shelley refuses, she's threatened with a lawsuit by her father. To make things worse, Shelley has an inexplicable attraction to the arrogant rich lawyer!
        Since his wife's death five years ago, Jacques (Jack) Fortier does whatever it takes to protect what is his. Shelley's club is his last resort to keep his daughter in the sport, but threatening to sue her isn't exactly his smartest move. When she grudgingly agrees to give Anna a chance, he finds himself attracted to the spritely gymnastics coach – the first woman he's had any feelings for since his wife passed away.
As Shelley and Jack leap over the line in their parent-coach relationship, Shelley worries over falling in love with a man who admittedly still loves his late wife. But when a crisis of teenage proportions threatens their relationship, will they risk everything for the chance to achieve The Perfect Score?Buy it from Secret Cravings Publishing or AMAZON

Patricia Logan shares a heartfelt memory of her Nursing experiences with AIDS patients

Author and good friend, Patricia Logan, has joined me today to share a memory of her days nursing AIDS patients in the 1990's.

I suppose I became active in the gay community in 1993 when a dear friend succumbed to AIDS. My friend Clay, who I'd known since childhood, finally passed away, painfully, filled with the only drug that was approved at the time, AZT. He died in pain but he was not alone. He was held by friends, sisters, a brother, a mother and a father and his lover and life partner of five years. 

   Clay's death led me to my next career, nursing of immune suppressed patients. It was rough. I walked naively right out of nursing school into an environment where "those people", the intimidating nurses of ISU, with their flamboyant gestures, bright hair and multiple piercings and great great love, were hard core and committed to what they did. I'd started out my career in nursing thinking I'd go into anything other than this but here I was, doing my rotation in the immune suppressed unit and getting to know how these people did their jobs.    
   I must tell you, at first impression, I was highly intimidated and coming onto the unit as a student fried my brain. I was literally, the top in my class followed by two other queens who made me feel like a fool here, the white, married mother. What was I doing, ministering to "their own"? 
    
   These guys were my study partners and my good friends but because they were gay men, they were readily accepted on the floor because at the time, 90% of the nurses that worked with AIDS patients were gay of both genders. In short, many nurses refused to take care of these patients, so deathly afraid and misinformed about body fluids and what could spread the disease. Remember, this was more than ten years after people began contracting the disease and the world was still living in fear of AIDS and HIV positive patients. 
   
   As an outsider, I was looked upon by several lesbian nurses in that "scary way" and made to be terrified until my gay friends stood their ground for me. In the end, sa'll good. I dealt with it, because of Clay and because I had a genuine love for people and my patients.
   On January 17, 1994, Los Angeles had one of largest earthquakes in our history. The lover to my friend Clay and co-nursing student called me crying. He was afraid and alone and freaking out. It was a time in all of our lives when things went kind of haywire; for god's sake, buildings in our neighborhood had come down crushing people. A total of more than 50 people died in that quake and that was in a highly modern, earthquake reinforced city, prone to the earth movers.
   My teachers decided that none of us were in the mood to learn about human anatomy that week so they did us all a great favor. They showed us a movie on video called "And the Band Played On" produced by HBO which I'd never heard of, at the time. It showcased the story of the beginnings of the "gay cancer" AIDS, the closing of the bathhouses, and the airline steward aboard a flight from Europe who they hypothesized had "started it all". 
   
   This movie stunned this student, a middle class white mother of 3, then in her thirties, and I thought even then, how can they pin it down to one guy? Was he the dude who went into the wilds of Africa and fucked the monkeys? We were reading and listening to all kinds of speculation on the television at the time about the origins of HIV. I didn't get the connection between the African apes then and don't get it now, but that's what we were taught.
   These memories come back around this time of year, because of Clay's death. In those days, we had AZT, the TENS unit and heavy pain meds. We had chucks and diapers and wet wipes and pads and love and hugs and tears. That's all we had. No knowledge. Nothing coming out of Washington, and we knew that they knew and didn't let us know… bastards… we knew… and we hugged and we loved and we buried… those we loved and then we sewed their names into a quilt.
   I spoke to a dear FB friend about it. With his permission and without his full name, I relate his story. Tony moved to San Francisco in the late 80's and began watching his "family" pass away. It wasn't a matter, when he opened the daily posts, as to "when they would die" but "who had died" the next day. He had to move away because it so overwhelmed him that he couldn't, literally, couldn't deal with the DAILY DEATH TOLL. How could anyone? God bless you Tony! I couldn't have either! It was hard enough, just reading it. 

   At the time, we all were sleeping around, I was a young single white female living in LA and fucking my way through college, not thinking that I was high risk, cause I just wasn't. My unprotected partners had nothing better to worry about than their orgasm, protected by my birth control pills. God! How naïve we all were in those stupid, stupid days!
   My patients died alone, we were their only friends, the nurses who held their hands.  My eyes were opened. I spent many a night, soaking my pillow with tears as I remembered a patients passing, alone, all alone. I interfered in many a fight between family members and partners who at the time, were refused visitation to men who they had spent years with, were in love with… It frankly sickened me. 

   Men died in the most horrid of fashions, blinded with pus-filled eyes as their livers shut down while their "brothers and sisters" fought with their lovers outside their hospital room doors. It's really a miracle I survived those years… those horrible years… It led me to the end of my nursing career because I lost my humanity among those brightly lit and beautifully artwork filled corridors of White Memorial.

   I went to Pride Week last June in San Francisco. I walked hand in hand and heart and heart with my Tony as well as my author pal, Amanda. We held hands along the parade route. We're both straight/bi and we just figured everyone would think we were gay anyway! I remembered Clay and feel what he felt, what my gay nurse friends felt, and what my Tony feels every single damn day, how he lives with the "cocktail" which allows him to survive another day, remembering twenty five years of lovers and friends lost to this terrible disease. 
   
   My prayers are with those who live with this scourge and its antiretroviral accompaniment every single day. Praise to my Tony and to those who still live with this miserable malady, years after we were so uninformed and perhaps deliberately misinformed. We did our best to hold their countless hands as they passed into the other world, often alone and without any other family but nurses like us, who loved and loved and still love.

Thank you for sharing this emotional recollection. Patti writes M/M erotic romance that is as heartfelt as her days as a nurse. 
 _________________________________________________________

Here are some of her books.
Find Patti's blog HERE

AMAZON


 








 AMAZON








 AMAZON

TUESDAY TALES - STORY WRITTEN TO THE WORD PROMPT "SKY"

Here's a snippet from my current WIP that is untitled.
Chapter Two
"You're going to be the financial advisor to Chaz Duncan, Chaz Duncan the movie star?" Penny put her crochet project down and raised her eyebrows."I'm handling all the celebrity accounts at Diller and Weed.""Why?""Because I handle Mark's account…wait, your and Mark's account.""And I'm a big celebrity…star quarterback with the Delaware Demons." Mark stretched his long arms over his head then out to the side."Big whoop, Mark. I'll bet he's as full of himself as you are…maybe more.""Everyone knows how humble and self-effacing I am." Mark grinned at his twin sister."Self-effacing…a twenty dollar word.""What's got your panties in a twist? You're lucky to be meeting a hot guy like Dunc Charles.""Dunc? You call him Dunc?""Hell, yeah. His nickname… all his Hollywood buds call him that. He came to a game and I met him, even shared a beer."Meg rolled her eyes. Penny pushed to her feet."Come on." She tugged on Meg's arm."Where to?""A make-over. You don't think I'm going to let you meet Duncan Charles looking like that do you?""What do you mean?""I wasn't going to say anything, Meg, and you know I love you like a sister…but it's time to take a leap into the twenty-first century and stop dressing like a 1930's spinster…your hair…we gotta fix that, too."
 Meg Davis sputtered and protested but between Mark and Penny, she didn't stand a chance. Before she could fasten her jacket, she'd been pushed into the elevator and was on her way to Bergdorf Goodman accompanied by Penny and Mark's credit card.                                                     ****  When they returned, Penny came into the condo
first. She turned off the television."Hey! What're you doing?" Mark sat up and put his beer down on the glass coffee table."You'll never believe it…""Yeah? Did you get her a new disposition, too?" Mark turned back to the TV."Come on, Mark! She needs an audience. She's not sure she likes all this and well…I need you to convince her.""Me? I couldn't convince her the sky's blue.""Wait…wait…" Penny backed out of the room and opened the door. Meg walked in, wobbling a bit on heels that were too high for her. Mark sat back and narrowed his eyes, looking his sister over. "Hmm…I'd have to say…Wow, Meg. You look…awesome!"Meg smiled lamely at him and wobbled closer."Gotta learn to walk." Mark looked over his sister more closely.Her glossy dark brown hair wasn't pulled back but hung loose, freshly trimmed to  shoulder length. Spiky bangs, coral lipstick and a low-cut sweater showing plenty of cleavage gave her a saucy look. "Didn't know you could look like that…pretty hot…for a sister. Didn't know you had…uh…those, either." He gestured with cupped hands to his own chest, while his cheeks colored a bit.Meg's green eyes danced under the perfect layer of mascara and Mark's praise. Her irridecent blue suit emphasized her dark good looks and her dazzling smile. The garment fit her curves perfectly and the thin, white sweater underneath also hugged her like a glove. A thin gold chain with a gold heart, the ultimate elegant touch to the gorgeous outfit, hung low on her chest. Mark leaned over and peered under the sofa. "What did you do with my sister, Penny?"Meg threw a pillow at him and he guffawed. Penny placed the receipts in Mark's hand. He crossed the room and transferred them to Meg."You're my financial manager, do something with these.""Doesn't she look fabulous?" Penny wrapped her fingers around Mark's bicep as she gave Megan another once-over."Old Duncan'll never know what hit him." Mark gave Meg another appreciative look."He puts his pants on one leg at a time, just like everyone else," she sniffed."It's not about how he puts his pants on…" Penny began."But how he takes 'em off," Mark snickered.

 Visit my WEBSITE for more info about my books.

Sweet Saturday Sample of "Sunny Days, Moonlit Nights"

Thank you for stopping by. Here is an excerpt from the opening chapter of Sunny Days, Moonlit Nights my first sweet romance.

 "You're running away, Miss?" Harry, the butler, asked her. "Yes, I am. I've had enough. Thank you for all your kindness over the past five years. You helped to make unbearable times better," she said, warmly, shaking his hand. Harry, a non-descript, plump, fifty-year-old man blushed, putting color in his sallow cheeks. "Don't know what's wrong with Mr. White. When he has you here, why would he…? Well, it's not for me to understand, I guess. But I wouldn't be doin' that if I were him." She was grateful for his sweetness, but it was time to get started. She had a long trip ahead. Caroline Davis White dashed into the sunroom to grab her sketchpad and her fawn pug when the doorbell rang. "It's Stanton Cauley, Mrs. White," Harry said, returning to the sunroom. Caroline went to greet her visitor, a tall, slim, attractive man with gray hair, dressed in casual pants and a button down shirt. "Stan, nice to see you, but I was just going out. Is there a problem with the collection?" she asked, smoothing down her long blonde hair. "No, no, Caroline. My people have packed up your paintings now that the show is over, and I wanted to deliver them to you personally." "That's nice of you, but unnecessary," she said, looking at her watch. "You're looking ravishing as ever," he said, his eyes roving over her body, focusing too long on her cleavage, unconsciously licking his lips before raising his eyes to hers. "I'd love to invite you for coffee, Stan, but as I said, I'm on my way out…" Caroline said, uneasy under his stare. She backed away from him, crossing her arms over her chest defensively. "Always working, Caroline, you're such a gifted artist, but even a driven one takes time off to…ah…play once in a while," he said. "Yes, well, today is not the day for that, I'm afraid," she said, moving toward the front door, hoping he would follow her. "Come on, Caroline. Let's stop beating around the bush. You know why I'm here." "Honestly, Stan, I don't have a clue. But whatever it is will have to wait." "But love can't wait." "What?" "That's right." "What do you mean?" "Don't pretend, Caroline. You know I want to have an affair with you. I've wanted it for a long time. Brad has his…other life…so why shouldn't you have yours?" Caroline's face flushed with anger and embarrassment. "What happens between Brad and me is none of your business. I'm married, Stan, and even if I wasn't, I wouldn't be interested in sleeping with you. Never have been, never will be. I suggest you leave." "Come, come, don't be like that. I can show you a good time, believe me. We can sail away for the weekend together on my yacht. I'll treat you well, just say the word." "No way. If Brad knew you were coming here with this…this proposition, he'd—"  "But he does know. He thought if you had some diversion of your own, you wouldn't mind so much if he had his," Stan said, stepping closer and reaching for her hand. Caroline moved back away from him.
BACK TO SWEET SATURDAY SAMPLES 
Only $2.99 on Amazon & Barnes & Noble & Smashwords. Available in Paperback, too.
 Blurb Can Caroline run away from her present and into her past? Can she hide out in the safe, summer community where she grew up and dodge a controlling, cheating husband? Can a new life spring from the ashes of an old one? Will Caroline be able leave her fancy life behind and build a new one on her own or will she need help from a new man?

LEE BRAZIL - LIVING IN A FANTASY WORLD

Welcome, Lee. Pull up a chair. No, try this one, much more comfy. Coffee's ready. Can I pour you a cup? Milk? Sugar?  First let's look at the gorgeous cover of Lee's new book.
Living in a Fantasy World
*waves* Hi, all. I'm Lee Brazil author of m/m romance for Breathless Press and The Story Orgy. *sips coffee* I live on Face Book in between writing. Why? Cause it makes writing less a solitary vocation. I have a myriad of friends with different interests and different perspectives, and we can have a lot of engaging conversations or just plain old fashioned fun. I find that having that outlet lets me refresh and go back to writing with enthusiasm. And...sometimes, they give me something to think about that blossoms into something like this blog post. A while ago Jean posted a hypothetical question in one of our writing groups. Here's the scenario. You're out to lunch. Across the room you see the significant other of a close friend, dining intimately with someone. Do you tell your friend? The implication, of course is that the SO is cheating on your friend. On the surface it seems to be a yes or no question. Gut instinct tells me it's not. I thought briefly about it. And honestly, if I saw a man I knew lunching with a stranger in a public place, I'd just walk right up to the couple and say hi. If I knew the man's partner, especially if he were my friend, I'd probably ask how he's doing and suggest we all get together soon. Someone called my response an "affair killer". Maybe. But, anyone who is trying to hide what they're doing probably shouldn't be having lunch in a public place. In retrospect, while that might be my first response, it kind of avoids the question being asked. The question really is, if you know your friend's lover is cheating on him, do you tell him? That's more difficult. See, your friend is living in a fantasy world. He's in love with his partner, or thinks he is. He probably thinks his relationship is all roses and red wine and two heads on a pillow. He's looking at the world through rose colored glasses, and anyone who's ever been in love can tell you, those glasses make the world a very fine place. They make plain men beautiful, paupers princes, and flaws cute. Without the glasses, the rose means I'm sorry I'm giving you this single flower because I feel guilty about something I'm doing. With the glasses, it means I love you, you're perfect, we belong together. With the glasses, the red wine is just the perfect little touch to an evening meal, the buzz on the ending of another day together. Without the glasses? The red wine clouds his judgment. He's so buzzed, he can't see clearly. The two heads on a pillow? Well...they're just sleeping tonight. *sips coffee* Still, wearing those glasses, your friend is happy. Do you have the right to rip that away? Don't you want him to be happy? What if you tell him, and he doesn't believe you? Or...worse.  What if you tell him, and he gets mad at you for butting into his relationship? I mean, you don't know all the parameters of this couple's relationship dynamic. What if he already knows and doesn't care? What if they have an open relationship? It's none of your business, is it? You risk coming off looking like an interfering busy body by talking to your friend. And, there's one bottom line here. Your friend is going to get hurt living in that fantasy world. Surely that can't be good for him? Eventually, he's going to find out, and then...You'll have to pick up the pieces, maybe share a pitcher of margaritas or a gallon of moose track ice cream.But...here's my take. Let him have the fantasy, as long as it lasts. Sooner or later, if there's a problem, he's going to figure it out. At least then, after the margaritas and the ice cream, he'll have the fantasy to look back on. Don't rip off the band aid, don't steal his rose colored glasses. Just be there when he loses them. That's what I'd do. What about you?
I hope you can take a few minutes to check out my March release, Loving Eden.
A little bit about the book Eden St. Cyr wants to let the boy who's crushing on him down easy.Drew Harris wants to protect his son from what he considers a disastrous relationship.Neither of them counted on being attracted to the other. Eden St. Cyr has wandering feet.  He shuffles around the country from place to place and college to college, changing majors and lovers at whim. When Bailey Harris starts following him home, mooning around and showing signs of affection, Eden hatches a plan to let the kid down lightly before he leaves for the next semester, the next college, and the next lover.
Drew Harris is stunned at the changes in his son.  His responsible dependable, cheerful boy has become a moody despondent, irresponsible teenager. Drew knows exactly who to blame, too.  When Eden doesn't return his phone calls, he's forced to be a little more devious in his plans to get the bad influence out of his son's life.
An unexpected attraction derails both men from their plans, but when Bailey walks in at the least appropriate time, can things be put right? EXCERPT "You're one of Bailey's friends? I'm Drew, his Dad." The man asked, reaching down and picking up Eden's back pack."Yes," He mumbled in reply, striving to fight down the shivers of arousal that rippled through him with the deep voice. The effect from the answering machine was magnified in person. That voice was a caress in itself, stroking over his body, making him tingle with awareness."Let me show you where you'll be sleeping. I'm putting you in with Bailey. Sorry I can't stay and talk, but I've got to get down to the market in town and pick up some supplies for our weekend."Eden willingly followed the man into the house and down a short hallway. Bailey's dad opened a door and gestured into the room. "Here you go. People should be arriving soon, but I hope to be back before anyone else gets here."Eden stepped up to the doorway inadvertently brushing against that hard muscled body as he did so. Heat seared through his thin T-shirt and gooseflesh prickled his arms. He bit his lip to keep the moan inside, just nodding his head, too afraid that his arousal would show to speak. He ducked his head and made to move into the room, when a hard warm hand closed around his upper arm. He found himself turned to face Bailey's dad, and looked up into puzzled blue eyes."We'll talk later, yes?" The man asserted. Eden was trapped in the depths of those deep blue eyes and unable to utter a response. A big, calloused hand came up to cup Eden's jaw, thumb rubbing gently over the two-day growth of beard he hadn't bothered to shave. Shaking his head, Drew began to speak again but then his head tilted slightly to the side and his lips came down. Eden caught his breath in surprise. Surely Bailey's dad wasn't going to kiss him?But he was. Warm dry lips pressed to his own briefly, sliding a little to the side, nipping lightly at his own lower lip. The gentle kiss swept right across his mouth in a brief warm touch that left him craving more. It had barely begun before Drew pulled away. Wow. Pressing his fingers to his still tingling lips, Eden stared after the handsome man who'd shown him his room. Definitely scrapping plan A for this weekend.
Sound good?  BUY LINKBREATHLESS PRESS http://www.breathlesspress.com/category/author/lee-brazil Let's get to know Lee a little better I'm an avid reader and former teacher of grammar and composition who believes that falling in love is the grandest adventure anyone can have.  In a nutshell, that's every story I have to tell.  Relocating from the crazy pace of life in Southern California's Orange County to the beautiful and leisurely atmosphere of the Illinois countryside has given me the time to indulge the desire to write that I set aside when I started teaching fourteen years ago. Readers can find out more about me and my writing by visiting me at my blog, Lee's Musings or finding me on Facebook.  Feel free to drop me a line at lee.brazil@ymail.com 

TUESDAY TALES - NEW STORY

First story in the Hollywood Hearts series. This WIP doesn't have a name yet.



"I always said, he's got the looks, the charm and she's got the brains." Mary Davis' voice carried beyond the master bedroom."Shhh, she'll hear you." Her father shut the door.Those words had been ringing in Megan's head since she was eight. And she couldn't disagree. Her twin brother, Mark was blond, blue-eyed and gorgeous. Megan had straight brown hair and dark brown eyes, nothing to write home about. Everyone loved the outgoing Mark Davis and few knew his shy sister, Megan.On the football field her beloved brother could complete more passes than any other quarterback in his high school or college. Megan maintained a 3.8 average without breaking a sweat. They both attended Wellington College in Pennsylvania where Megan gave her brother a leg up with his schoolwork and he helped her get dates.After graduation, Mark headed for the Delaware Demons, eventually becoming their starting quarterback while Megan headed to Harvard Business School.****  
New York City – ten years later.Megan knocked on the door of her brother's room."Get up, you two. Breakfast is ready and I've got to go."She heard a rumbling noise then the sound of large feet hitting the floor. A few seconds later her handsome brother opened the door. Scratching his stubbly face and wearing only boxers he yawned."Timing has never been your strong suit, Meg."She led him to the breakfast nook. A few paces behind him, an embarrassed Penny Davis, Mark's wife, was fastening her robe."Sorry but it's my first day and I need to be on time.""Penny and I can make our own breakfast…when we're ready, you know."Megan turned and flashed a one thousand watt smile at her brother."I like to do it when you're here. Part of my concierge service." Megan placed two plates with scrambled eggs and bacon on the table.The six foot four inch athlete shoved his sister playfully in the shoulder and folded his large frame into a seat."Still not sure this 'arrangement' is such a good idea." Mark picked up a mug of coffee prepared the way he liked with a dash of sugar and plenty of milk. Penny slid into the seat next to Mark and sipped her coffee."Ten years from now, you'll be glad you have this money.""Collecting rent from my sister feels…wrong somehow.""Look at it as a contribution to your child's college education." "Don't have any kids…yet. And if you keep interrupting me like that…we won't!"
 "Very funny, Mark."He leaned over and kissed his wife."I'm your financial planner and I know what's best for your future…both of you." Megan brushed off her suit jacket."If you say so. It's all Greek to me." Mark picked up his fork and tucked into the eggs on the plate in front of him."Someone has to protect your money, Mark. You sure as hell can't do it.""Got that right. But you can't throw a pass either."Megan put her empty mug down on the table."Good luck today, Meg." Mark squeezed her forearm gently."Thanks, Big Guy." Megan bent down and kissed the top of Mark's head and shot a smile at Penny before she picked up her briefcase and went out the door.
  CHECK OUT MY BOOKS ON MY WEBSITE, CLICK HERE.

Sweet Saturday Sample of "Now and Forever 1, a Love Story"

Thank you for stopping by. You're just in time for the spring dance and fund-raiser at Kensington State University. Shy Callie Richards finds herself the Belle of the Ball, a modern-day Cinderella. Can she handle it?
Dean's office at Kensington State
The music started with "Unchained Melody", planned by Mac. Callie was talking when she heard the song and stopped because  "Unchained Melody" was their song. She turned around and Mac was there to claim the first dance with his wife. "I think this is our dance" He said, extending his hand."Our song!" Callie said, smiling radiantly at him. She placed her hand in his. He guided her toward him and put his hand on her waist, pulling her close. When their eyes met, Callie felt theywere the only ones in the room. Mac held her close. They were the first ones on the dance floor and everyone applauded. Callie blushed, embarrassed and hid her face in Mac's shoulder."No shyness, Callie. Be proud. Everyone here thinks you're great. Enjoy it," Mac said leading her around the floor and singing the words softly to her. Callie felt strong and beautiful.For a moment, she saw Kyle by the window, smiling at her and she knew he would be proud of her.After the first dance was over, men claimed their dances with Callie. Mac stepped aside with a smile and went back to discussions of donations, new buildings and majors.This was truly a Cinderella night for Callie as she enjoyed her favorite pastime, dancing.Even without the footmen, she was still the belle of the ball. Every man in the room under age seventy asked her to dance. Some of the men held her a little too close, some had sweaty hands, butall of them were flattering, sweet and gentlemanly.Callie enjoyed the dancing as the small band played song after song she loved. Maybe it was Eliza's speech or the magical dress, whatever it was, Callie's confidence grew and she relaxed, enjoying the attention.
CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO SWEET SATURDAY SAMPLES.I'd like to share a recent review for Now and Forever 1, a Love Story: Bittersweet tale March 8, 2012 At the very beginning, the heart of this book exudes a sort of melancholy feeling. Callie is dealing with the grief from the death of her fiance. We learn a lot about her childhood and the things that she had to go through as she was growing up. Her childhood was not an easy or happy one. Consequently, it seemed and felt to her like Kyle was all she had. When he died, she was devastated. In the midst of the grief, she has decided that it's time to move on with her life, but she still has trouble letting go of Kyle.

Callie is a quiet girl that stays to herself. She is believable in her grief and the way she relives things, not wanting to let them go and afraid she will forget. I enjoyed her as a character, as I did most of the characters from this book. Mac is just trying to deal with his life, not really looking to get involved with anyone. The fact that it is a relationship that is not sought out by either party seems to make the feelings more real.

The biggest problem I had with this book is only that the author did such a fantastic job of making Kyle such a great guy, to make him worthy of the level of grief Callie was feeling even after such a long time (I'm assuming), that by the time I met Mac I didn't care about him. I wanted Kyle! Even after a few chapters of Callie and Mac, and even rooting for them to get together on one level, I found myself still hoping that the military made a mistake and Kyle would come walking in. I will say that Callie's relationship with Mac was probably healthier. She had grown and matured a little more by the time she got involved with him, so he wasn't her entire life the way Kyle was. She was more her own person by this time, with her own identity.

The different things that are dealt with in this book are portrayed very well and realistically. The levels of grief, trying to move on without forgetting, becoming your own, independent person apart from the grief and the person that you are grieving are all a part of the story, but not overwhelmingly so. I loved the box of Kyle's things that Callie keeps, and Mac's reaction to it when he finds it. I could see myself doing something like that in Callie's place.

A very bittersweet love story that will take you through the whole spectrum of emotions. I found myself proud of Callie by the end, as though she was a friend I knew, rather than a character in a book. This is a great read - another win for Ms. Joachim.
BUY LINKS
AMAZONSECRET CRAVINGS PUBLISHINGBARNES & NOBLEALL ROMANCE EBOOKSAvailable in PAPERBACK too!