Stephanie Burkhart's Blog, page 74

Welcome Guest Author Jennifer Wilck

STEPH: I don't know much about Skin Deep What's it about?

JENNIFER: Skin Deep is a contemporary romance and addresses the theme of believing in yourself and rising above your circumstances, taking control and making something better out of your life. Both the hero and the heroine come from past abusive relationships and both of them find the strength to move past them and discover the love they were meant to have. Of course, it takes the hero a little longer to get to that point (men!) but they're two incredibly strong characters with great chemistry. Here's a blurb:

The last thing Valerie needs, after escaping an abusive marriage to an alcoholic and rebuilding her life, is a broody, secretive, standoffish man. But that's exactly what she gets when she becomes a makeup artist on the set of a hit sitcom and draws the attention of the series' star.

John Samuels hides a terrible past—a life of abuse and neglect. A successful acting career and the affection and support of cast, crew and friends, does nothing to convince him that he is anything other than an unlovable monster.

Will he learn that the life he's been living has been built on a lie or will he be doomed to repeat the sins of his father?

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

JENNIFER: Writing the story took about 8 months and editing took another 6 months. This was the first story for which I used a critique partner, which really took me out of my comfort zone. Usually, I don't let anyone ever see what I write, but my critique partner is amazing and she really helped strengthen the book.

STEPH: Did you do a lot of research for it?

JENNIFER: The heroine, Valerie, is a makeup artist, so I had to research that profession. I found a makeup artist loop on the Internet and interviewed one of the women on it. It was really interesting! I never knew there was so much work behind making someone look like they do on TV!

STEPH: What was the inspiration for the novel?

JENNIFER: Most of my stories start with characters and this one was no different. I saw an actor on TV whose face and eyes were so expressive that I couldn't stop looking at him. He wasn't particularly gorgeous—I think "arresting" is probably more appropriate. So while I was watching him, my mind started doing its thing and the character of John was created. Then I needed to find a perfect heroine for him, and along came Valerie. The rest just sort of happened when I sat down at my keyboard.

STEPH: Hollywood is calling! Cast the main characters.

JENNIFER: I have a tough time with questions like this because the characters form their own personalities and descriptions in my head and it's hard to find a real person for them to be, even if this one happened to start with an actual person on TV. So, let's see. For John, I think I'd choose Jeff Kober—he's from China Beach. And for Valerie, maybe Ellen Pompeo, even though she doesn't look anything like the Valerie in my head. But I think she'd do a good job with the character.

STEPH: What's your writing space like?

JENNIFER: Hah! I'm a mom, so anywhere my kids aren't…I tend to move around a lot. Usually I start in the dining room, which has big French doors overlooking our deck and lots of trees outside. I like the light and the open feeling. Sometimes I'll move into our family room with the big comfy sofas (recliners are awesome!) or our office if I want to shut the door and write in peace. With my laptop, I can pretty much write anywhere.

STEPH: How long have you been writing? Are you a plotter or a panster?

JENNIFER: I've been writing for a really long time. I've always written down story ideas or parts of stories. My last book, A Heart of Little Faith, which was my first published book, was probably the first time I sat down and wrote a story from start to finish without changing my mind part way through, though. And I'm a total pantser. I can't stick to an outline to save my life. I tried that with my current WIP and it's awful! Never again! But I really admire those who can do it.

STEPH: What romantic genre do you like to write? Read?

JENNIFER: While I'd love to write historical, I don't think I could do it justice, so currently, my favorite romantic genre to write is contemporary. I like to read all kinds though. At the moment, I'm reading Claire Delacroix's The Beauty Bride.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one.

JENNIFER: I have the iPad. My parents got it for me to congratulate me on my first publishing contract (thanks, Mom & Dad!). It's pretty cool! I like the whole page-swishing thing!

STEPH: Fun question: It's football season. Who's your favorite team?

Easy! The New York Giants! It's hereditary. My dad is a huge fan and growing up, he was fanatical about them. If I walked into the room and they fumbled, I was banished until after the game ended. So, I really never had a choice. My husband is from outside of Philadelphia and is an Eagles fan, so football season is an interesting time in our house!

STEPH: Please share an excerpt, buy links & links to where we can find you on the web.

Excerpt, Skin Deep

The square, plastic bottle crashed to the floor, the white cap skittered under a cabinet and bisque-colored foundation splattered across the tile floor, where it made a Rorschach pattern within the large white squares. With a groan and a roll of her eyes, Valerie searched under the makeup table, found the errant cap, replaced it on the bottle, and returned the foundation to the tray. She grabbed a damp rag and wiped up the mess.

She looked at the shooting schedule and smiled as she ran her fingers down the smooth laminated page. Only three weeks into this job, she loved working as assistant make-up artist on "Oddballs," a Top-10 weekly TV sitcom. She double-checked her kit for the supplies she'd need that day. So engrossed in her work, she didn't notice her boss' purple-spiked head in the door of the make-up trailer, or the ever-present smell of hair gel that hovered around her, until Michelle called her name.

"Hey Valerie, a bunch of us are going out after work. Wanna come?"

Flashes from her past competed with images from the present at the sudden voice and Valerie stiffened. She shook her head to clear the jumble of images.

"Where are you going?" She wiped the remains of the foundation on the short cotton apron over her turquoise shirt and faded denim jeans. Eyes closed, she inhaled. The thick weave of rough fabric scraped her fingers and anchored her in the present, despite her body's momentary lapse.

"Tico's for some drinks. There's about eight of us going. It'll be fun and you can meet some of the crew."

Valerie's hands shook and knocked into the plastic bottles on the tray. They clinked together as the tubes slid into the scissors and destroyed their recent orderliness. She kept her face down, eyes averted, as her cheeks heated and her palms became sweaty. She had dreaded this moment. If they'd been going anywhere but a bar, she'd have joined them, but she couldn't bring herself to go there. So, she had to perform a delicate balancing act. Somehow, she had to refuse this invitation, but leave open the possibility for others. Despite their different personal styles, she and Michelle had formed an instant bond. The last thing she wanted was to hurt their new friendship.

"I can't tonight. Thanks for asking though. Maybe another time." She took a deep breath and pasted on a smile.

"Hot date?" Michelle raised a perfectly plucked black eyebrow and grinned.

Valerie grinned back. "Just with my laundry."

"You're turning me down for laundry? Come on, you can do that tomorrow."

Valerie shook her head. "I really can't tonight, Michelle. Next time."

Michelle muttered under her breath as she left. Valerie sighed as the door banged shut and left her alone with her memories.

That night, after all the scenes had been shot, Valerie waited for everyone to leave. She didn't want to answer questions or receive pity.

She arranged and rearranged drawers and tools. The trailer contained three stations, each with its own make-up chair. A long table ran down one wall, with plenty of drawers for storage space. Well-lit mirrors hung above the table. Unable to find anything else to do, and convinced by the silence that everyone had to have left, she took out her keys to lock up. She jumped as a knock sounded at the door, the trailer rattled and a head peeked in.

"Valerie?"

"Oh, hi, John." She expelled a deep breath and willed her heart to slow its frantic beat. "Do you need something?"

"No." He entered and stood by the door. John Samuels played the lead. At almost six-foot three, he dwarfed the trailer and had to tip his head to fit. He folded his muscular arms across his chest and spread his feet apart. "Michelle told me you were not joining us tonight. I thought I would see if I could change your mind."

Valerie rolled her eyes. "She is persistent."

"You noticed." John's dark eyes twinkled. His mouth widened with a ghost of a smile. Valerie tried not to gasp.

He reminded her of a rugged cowboy — broad-shouldered, with a prominent brow, dark piercing eyes, high cheekbones and a cleft chin. When he smiled, even a slight trace of one, his eyes looked like liquid velvet and his dimples twinkled like stars in the night sky. A five-o'clock shadow covered his cheeks. Her fingers itched to brush against their rough texture, to tease his mouth into a full-blown grin.

"So, what can I say to make you join us?"

As he leaned against the wall in well-fitting jeans and a T-shirt that left nothing to the imagination, Valerie's mind said, "Sleep with me." Heat crept up her neck, over her cheeks and continued to the roots of her hair. A thin sheen of sweat dampened the space between her breasts. She felt the sudden urge to fan herself, like a damsel in distress in an old B-movie. Instead, she ignored her traitorous thoughts. Her balled fist pressed into her tight stomach.

"Tonight, not even chocolate will change my mind."

She didn't exactly lie. She had no intention of going to the bar, or of sleeping with him, no matter how her thoughts might try to sabotage her good intentions. She'd been fooled by surface finery before, and it had almost killed her. She wouldn't let it happen again.

"I will remember that," he promised. "But next time you will not get off so easy." His eyes bored into hers for a moment, and then he turned on his heel and left.

Buy Link: www.whiskeycreekpress.com (Skin Deep will be released in November) in e-book and print format. It will eventually be available on Amazon and Fictionwise as well.

Jennifer's contact info:
Website: www.jenniferwilck.com
Fried Oreos Blog: www.jenniferwilck.wordpress.com
Heroines With Hearts Blog (contributor): www.heroineswithhearts.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennife...
Twitter: @JWilck

Writing Tuesday - Marketing tips for Twitter

Social networking can be a challenge for many who are just starting out in the writing world. Social networking is a necessary tool that the author can use to promote their book. I thought I'd take a look at how you can maximize your time on Twitter.

The Pros of Twitter:
It's cheap (i.e. free)
It's fun (once you get the hang of it)

The Cons of Twitter:
It is intimidating
It is confusing

At some point, you have to get your feet wet and join. Whatever your role in the writing world – author, illustrator, marketing, etc., these tips can prove very helpful.

For me, the main goal of Twitter is to increase my followers. The more followers you have, the more people you reach out to.

Tip #1 – You don't want to spend more than 10-15 mins on Twitter at any given time. Trust me. You have other things to do and social networking should not consume your day. Make it a point to check your Tweets 10-15 mins a day. The "optimum" goal should be once in the morning, and once at night, but if you can't do twice a day, strive to be on Twitter at least once a day.

#2 – Friend 5 people a day
I use the recommendations on the side, but I also follow my favorites which include Anne Rice, The New England Patriots, other 911 dispatchers, and even Chum Lee from Pawn Stars.

#3 – Retweet 5 posts a day
(this shows others you are supportive by retweeting their posts. In turn, fellow tweeters are generally inclined to retweet your posts)

#4 – Tweet 5 posts a day
These can be anything. For examples
Quotes from your favorite writers or authors. I like to quote HG Wells, Emily Dickinson and Eleanor Roosevelt.
Share YouTube links – this can be your book trailers or some of your favorite videos on you tube.
Amazon links to your books. If your book is on sale, mention it.
Places were you want fans to follow you like Good Reads, LinkedIn, Writing.com, etc.
Links to reviews for your books.
Links to book reviews you've done.
Announcements for what's on your blog.
Announcement if you're visiting someone else's blog.
Announcements on any contests or giveaway you're doing.
Gush and give shout outs to your favorites: movies, authors, books, music, etc. I usually give a shout to coffee and chocolate during the week. It's okay to be a little cheeky and show off your personality. Readers like to see a little bit of your fun side.



You may not feel an immediate effect, but you'll see difference by the end of the week and even a bigger difference by the end of the month. Remember, it's all about growing your followers.

Tip #5 - #hashtags
These are "quick" tags that highlight popular posts. If you post "Check out my book on Kindle" (with the link) use #kindle at the end of the post. If other people are on twitter and check out the popular posts highlighted on the side, they should pull up a majority of post with the hashtags. If you have your post marked with a hashtag, it should, in theory, pull up.

Tip #6 - @ sign

If you talk about someone, let them know. They'll appreciate it and usually reciprocate. For example. Me: Just finished reading @StephBurkhart's book. Two thumbs up.

If anyone has any other tips, please feel free to share.
Go out there and tweet. And have fun with it.

PS: You can follow me on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart
I'd like to encourage a twitter exchange. Leave your twitter addy and I'll go ahead and follow you. Go ahead and follow others and you'll increase your following. (ie Twitter Birds. hehe)

Feast of Candles: A Contemporary Spicy Christmas Short Story now avail!

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Spicy Contemporary Christmas Romance
short story included in: Victory Tales Press
A Christmas Collection 2011 Sensual/Spicy

Drake de Brettville is going to take the biggest risk of his life – because of a bottle of wine. When Drake's brother returns to their home in Denmark with a bottle of wine from the Marquand Winery, Drake finds himself compelled to discover who the wine maker is. Intrigued to learn that the owner is a young woman named Lily Marquand, Drake travels to Napa Valley, California, to meet her. When Drake finds Lily, the sparks fly. Lily is that rare woman who stimulates him like no other, but to win her love, Drake has to shatter the battlements that guard her heart and prove to her Christmas wishes do come true.

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Collecting her purse, she walked into the lobby as Drake descended the stairs. He presented her with a manila envelope.

"I'll look it over and give it to my lawyers to examine."

"When might you make a decision?"

"Give me a week."

He escorted her to her car and paused near the door. Lily unlocked it with her remote and leaned over, placing her purse along with the folder in the passenger seat. When she stood back up, Drake was directly in front of her. He cupped her cheek, his hand warm and encouraging. "When can I see you again?"

Her abdomen ached for more as waves of desire washed over her. Lily craved closer contact, but she tried to think rationally. "I'm, ah, not sure of my schedule."

"Tomorrow?"

"Yes – tomorrow. Come to the winery after it closes."

His lips brushed against hers, then gently covered her mouth. Lily welcomed him, his spicy scent sending her senses reeling. She placed her hands on his chest and moaned when his lips left hers, blazing kisses over her jaw, and searing a path of pleasure over her neck.

"So sweet," he whispered. His hands left a trail of heat from her waist to her breasts.

"Oh, Drake…" She arched closer to him. His mouth left her neck and he kissed her again, running his tongue over her bottom lip before mingling with hers.

Her head spun in a vortex of excitement. This man knew how to kiss.
An owl hooted. Startled, Lily broke away from him, but kept her hands firmly on his chest. She searched out Drake's eyes for a hint at what he was feeling. There was no hiding his raw attraction.

"Don't go tonight," he whispered.



AMAZON BUY LINK: KINDLE:
http://www.amazon.com/2011-Christmas-...

SMASHWORDS:
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...

LULU:
http://www.lulu.com/product/ebook/201...

Congrats! Danube in Candlelight, Book 3 of the Budapest Moon Series is now avail!

DANUBE IN CANDLELIGHT
Avail: 1 Nov 2011
Genre: paranormal/werewolf romance
Avail as: ebook only

REVIEWS:
5 Stars, Reader's Favorite:
This story is the closest I have ever come to reading a book that feels like a movie!

Book Trailer on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgzUIH...

BLURB:
Set in Budapest 1922, The Hungarians are recovering from the war. Adam Varga is Hungarian to the bone and becomes an architect to help rebuild his nation. Morgan Duma returns from England also intent on helping to rebuild her country.

After a tragedy happens to her mother, Morgan discovers her father is a werewolf. She begins to question who she is, becoming more reckless, moredaring, and her choices more bold. When Zoltan Kristos, a known werewolf, requests Morgan accompany him to the summer ball, Morgan has to decide which man will best fit her life.

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Morgan drew in a deep breath as the knot in her shoulder tensed. Adam had a point. How could she be so self-centered, dwelling on her high-strung emotions? Perhaps it was a cover. Perhaps she couldn't face the real issue because it mortified her. She didn't want to think about it now. Morgan turned her head away and reached over her shoulder to massage that tension-filled knot.

"Turn around." Adam's voice brooked no debate. She liked a man who commanded authority. Morgan turned, and he massaged both her shoulders. Heat from his hands trailed down her back. Her core warmed. Her body relaxed, reacting instinctively and with a desire she couldn't hide.

"Did I hit a nerve?" he asked.

"A nerve? In my neck?" She took a step backward to be closer to him.

"No. About your father. Is your real fear about what will happen to your mother once he turns her?" Adam kept his voice low and leaned close to her ear.

She closed her eyes briefly and faced her anxiety. "Yes."

"Morgan, our fathers' condition has a host of positive traits -- heightened senses, for example, but the best trait is the healing factor."

"I understand, Adam. That healing factor will help my mother recover from her awful injuries, but it comes with a tradeoff -- she's going to become a werewolf."

"Is it better she become addicted to morphine? That addiction is a beast in itself. Which would you prefer she'd become? The soldiers hooked on morphine have vacant eyes, and their hands tremble for their next fix. Do you want that for your mother? Fighting something she can't win against, or do you want her dealing with a manageable condition? Both our fathers are good men. They've managed it."

Morgan pursed her lips. Adam's tone was laced in objectivity and confidence, offering her a plausible reason for her father's actions. Morgan didn't want a shell of skin and bones that resembled her mother -- she wanted her mother well, both emotionally and physically.
Why had she been so selfish not to see that?

"It doesn't bother you that you have these traits?"

"I'm comfortable with who I am."

Morgan spun around, pressing the length of her body against Adam, curving her hand around the nape of his neck, and bringing his lips to hers. Their mouths met in a searing kiss full of desire. Want. Warmth. Pleasure replaced Morgan's emotional pain, and she deepened the kiss between them by sweeping her tongue into his mouth.

Adam groaned, wrapped his hands around her waist, and tugged her closer. Morgan continued the kiss, nipping his lower lip with her teeth. A blast of heat from his body washed over her like an ocean wave, sending pleasure spiraling through her. God, she had never felt so wonderful.

He threaded his hand through her hair and then yanked her head back. His mouth fell to her neck. Shivers of delight followed the hard, demanding kisses he placed on her skin.
"Adam, God, don't stop..."

He did just that. He withdrew his hand from her hair, sliding it down the side of her body to rest at her waist. She looked into his golden eyes blazing with the flames of desire.
Adam drew in a deep breath.

"Damn, Morgan, I am a man, and I have more control than that."

She placed her hand over his heart. "You enjoyed it. Don't deny it."

 PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:
http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stepha...

GOOD READS:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

Pumpkins and Jack o'Lanterns

It's that time of year when leaves on the trees change into vibrant colors of gold red and purple. There's a chhill in the air, frost on the ground, and plenty of pumpkins for sale. Heck, who doesn't buy a decorative pumpkin for Halloween or enjoy a slice of pumpkin pie? I'd thought I'd share some pumpkin fast facts with you and share the story of "Stingy" Jack - Jack o' the lantern.

Have a fun Halloween!

PS... you can find me on The Romance Studio Spookaplooza this weekend at:http://theromancestudio.com/party/ind... Join me for some fun and great posts!

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PSS... you can also find on the Long & Short Halloween Party on the Goddess Fish Blog.

** Where did the word pumpkin come from? The Greeks called it pepon, then the French began calling it pompon. The English switched it up and began using pumpion. When Americans got the word they began using pumpkin.

** Pumpkins are planted in early July to be ready in October.

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**In 1981, Howard Dill of Nova Scotia grew a pumpkin close to 500 pounds. He patiented the seeds from the pumpkin calling them "Dill's Atlantic Giant Seeds."

** To date, the biggest pumpkin weighted in last October at 1,810. The owner was Chris Stevens.

**Ireland's only pumpkin festival isheld in Virgina, County Cavan.

JACK O'LANTERN

So why do we carve scary faces into pumpkins for Halloween? Can you believe this tradition originates in Ireland and they used turnips until they discovered Pumpkins?

Here's the skinny on Jack:



Stingy Jack asked the Devil to have a drink with him. Stingy, though, asked the Devil to change into a coin so he could pay for the bar tab. The Devil did so. Jack kept the coin - next to a cross of course so the devil couldn't change back.

The Devil was peeved. He promised Jack he'd leave him alone for a year if Jack allowed him to turn back. Oh, and if Jack died, the Devil wouldn't claim his soul either.

A year later, Jack tricked the Devil into climbing a tree for a piece of fruit. Then he carved a cross into the tree so they Devil couldn't come down until the Devil promisd not to bother him for 10 years. The Devil agreed.

Then Jack died.

He was such a "punk," God wouldn't let him into Heaven. Jack turned to the Devil. The Devil, "Hey, I promised not to claim your soul." Then he gave Jack a burning coal and set him off into the dark night. Jack put his burning coal into a carved out turnip. He's been roaming the world since. The Irish called him Jack o' the Lantern. Peeps started carvin out their own turnips and subsquently pumpkins, to keep Stingy Jack away from their house.

A Look at Pan Am - the tv show & airline

I love to fly. My first flight was in July 1986 from Boston to Atlanta, GA on my way to Ft. McClellan, AL for my Basic and AIT Military training for the US Army.

What did I love about it? The whole ambience: being in the clouds and looking down at the ground, marveling at nature from the air. I was excited to go to another state because I loved learning about the differences. I still love learning and traveling. In fact, I had signed up to go to a travel school in Florida before deciding the Army was for me.

Since 1986, the aviation industry has taken its lumps, but if it wasn't for Pan Am Airways and its ground setting accomplishments, aviation might have taken a different turn, especially in America.

When I heard there was going to be a TV drama called "Pan Am" it stirred my restless soul – that part which loved traveling to new places, and learning about different cultures. I had to watch and see what the show was about. Quite honestly, I hadn't been this excited about a TV show in a long time.

Pan Am, the TV series, appears to be in a good hands with Jack Orman (writer, ER) and Thomas Schlame (writer, The West Wing). The episodes I've seen strike a nice balance between drama and depicting a historical way of life. The show captures the excitement of early air travel, mystery, danger, and romance. What resonates with me, as a viewer, is how the stewardesses (the 1960's term for flight attendant) embody that sense of adventure that I had when I joined the Army in 1986. The stewardesses are smart women with strengths and weaknesses I can identify with. These women looked 1960's conversations in the face and side stepped them. In fact to be a Pan Am stewardess you had to speak a second language and have medical/nursing training.

I enjoy all the characters on the show, but the one that I like the most is Colette Valois, played by Karine Vanasse. Colette is French, speaks French and German, and grew up in Nazi occupied France. Colette speaks to my French roots, proud, yet vulnerable, sweet, yet tough when the occasion requires, and achingly human when she enters into an affair with a married man. Colette breaks off the affair, but there's no mistaking her wounded heart.

Colete Valois


Another character on the show, Kate, is recruited by the CIA to be a courier. I found this interesting considering the Cold War was a deep freeze and the East and West were always spying on each other.

Kate's sister, Laura is on the show. Laura is drop dead gorgeous, but what really appeals to me is that she's a runaway bride. She didn't want to be married, pregnant and a dutiful wife at her age. She wanted to go out and do something for her so she finally made a choice and ran out on her wedding. It took a lot of courage to do that.

Maggie is played by Christina Ricci. She's a fun loving character who has a penchant to get into trouble. She's always pushing the boundaries of the time.

For those who watch, do you have a favorite character? Why or why not?

Enjoy these "Pan Am" facts:

For the TV series, Sony licensed the rights to the Pan Am name and logo from a New Hampshire railroad company who had acquired the rights/brand in 1998.

Pan Am was established in 1927 with a focus on air travel routes to Key West, Havana, and the Panama Canal.

Juan Trippe became Pan Am's first CEO. His guidance led the airway in several innovations.

In the early days of aviation, Pan Am pilots were trained in long distance flight, over water navigation, aircraft repair, and maritime tides. Flight crews learned celestial navigation in bad weather. They used dead reckoning and timed turns in fog.



In 1936, the fare from Oakland Alameda to Manila (and Hong Kong) was $1,710 round trip (approx 26,300 in 2010 currency) and took 4-5 days.

Pan Am named the aircraft clippers, after the 19th Century clipper ships which could travel long distances.

In the 1940's Star Trek creator, Gene Roddenberry, was a Clipper pilot.

Pan Am was the first to order the Boeing 747 in 1966.

Pan Am had an option to purchase the Concorde, but did not.

Pan Am built PANAMAC, a large computer in 1964 to help book flights.

Pan Am reached its peak in the early 1970's.

From 1950-90, Pan Am operated flights from West Germany to West Berlin.

Pan Am's cabin staff were multilingual, college graduates with nursing training.

In the early 1980's, a series of bad economic decisions along with poor security measures led to the airline's downfall.

Pan Am fled for bankruptcy in Jan 1991.

Enjoy this trailer:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HspOM_...

Welcome Author Amber Leigh Williams & Auburn to the Football Blog Tour Stop!

STEPH: What's your favorite team? Why?

AMBER: I was raised in a family of Auburn fans. I'm a proud SEC lady - I love when our conference does well in the BCS, even more when it's my team! My father went to Auburn and so did my sister and several aunts and uncles. I even went so far as to convert my DH into an AU fan within months of first meeting him. It's one of my proudest achievements, lol

STEPH: Who's you're favorite player playing now?

AMBER: It's a new year and a lot of players graduated and went on to the pros last year. And since we've only placed three games so far this year, I'm still learning. I do like Philip Lutzenkirchen, the tightend. He's a pretty solid player. Plus, he has his own touchdown dance. It's called the Lutzie!

STEPH: Who's your favorite all time player?

AMBER: That would be Heisman trophy winner Bo Jackson. An awesome football player and a really great man. He played for Auburn in the '80's, of course, but there are still college football Saturdays where he is on Pat Dye Field supporting the current players and coaches.



STEPH: Have you been to a game? What's it like?

AMBER: I've been fortunate enough to go to games every season since I was a little girl. My husband and I try to go to at least one. Game-day experience in Auburn is unbelievable. A lot of stadium environments can be really harsh and intimidating. While Jordan-Hare Stadium might be intimidating, it's a remarkably positive environment and fans are very respectful toward visiting fans. I believe the positive energy of Auburn is why so many games sellout each year.

STEPH: Do you have a football jersey? Which Number?

AMBER: I do! It's a bit old and worn, but it's sentimental. It's the number 14, which was how old I was when I received it as a gift from my parents :)

STEPH: What's your favorite football food?

AMBER: Tailgating food is the best! Just the smell of game day cookouts makes me smile. Usually we attend the big SEC games closer to the end of the season – versus Arkansas, LSU, Georgia, Alabama, etc. That point of the year on the Plains, nighttime can be brrrr. My uncle makes the best Sante Fe chili, however, that not only tastes good but warms you right through the bones.

STEPH: Who's your team's "evil" nemesis?

AMBER: The Iron Bowl – Auburn vs. Alabama – is the fiercest rivalry in the South and maybe even the country, mostly because they are both Alabama teams and the state doesn't have a pro team to divide loyalties. On a personal note, I feel like that events of the past year might have hopefully somewhat cooled the worst of the tension between rivaling fans from both teams because of the April tornadoes in Tuscaloosa (home of the University of Alabama) and after the celebratory oaks were poisoned on Toomer's Corner in Auburn last November. I love a good rivalry in college football, but it's nice to see fans from opposing teams ban together in times of need.



Blurb from Forever Amore….
Was their love destined to last forever …
Engaged in a brutal dogfight, dashing American Lieutenant Charles Tyler crashes his broken plane into the Italian countryside. He prays for divine intervention—and is certain he's found an angel from the very moment he looks up at Lucille Renaldi's lovely face. Yet how can he be with her when his sense of duty tells him to stay away?
… or become another casualty of war?
Lucille's attraction to the American is forbidden, her obligation to her family's safety overwhelming. At great peril the Renaldis carry Charles from the crash site and disguise him as just another worker in their vineyard. Hidden there inside the ugliness of World War II is the beauty of a growing love, and a danger that could end their lives any day—when all they want is … forever.
*Praise:

"A dynamic war-time romance novel…. Features everything from dogfights to intimacy, love to desperation…. I must give this a best book, as the rating sheet goes no higher. Mark this a must-read. Williams has brought the romantic back to romance!"
—Long & Short Reviews

"A beautiful love story woven with suspense to make you race through the pages!"
—Lisa Britton Jacoby, The Baker City Herald

"This is a wonderfully written story of a forbidden love during wartime. The author has brought the era to life and filled it with some memorable characters. Lucille's trials and tribulations and her love for Charles will keep the reader riveted from the first page to the last one."
—Coffee Time Romance

Forever Amore is available now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and BooksaMillion.
Buy now for Kindleand Nook!

Book Trailer:
http://youtu.be/QAxUFOxvEAo

Visit Amber at:
http://www.amberleighwilliams.com

Welcome Isis Rushdan and the Eagles to the Football Blog Tour!

ISIS: Thank you, Steph for having me on. This is such a great idea and I'm pleased to participate.

STEPH: Who is your favorite team? Why?

ISIS: The Philadelphia Eagles. I'll be honest, I didn't grow up watching football and until I met my husband I didn't have a love for the game. However, his passion and enthusiasm about the sport and his team was contagious. After watching a few games with him Sundays while dating, I actually started to pay attention to what made the team so amazing in my opinion. For starters, they are the perennial underdogs with heart. They are the only team in their division that hasn't won multiple Super Bowls, but they are the only team, other than the Patriots, that have displayed consistency in playoff appearances in the last decade. At this point, the Eagles are in my blood and I find I'm affected by every decision the front office and coaches make.

STEPH: Who is your favorite player "playing" now?

ISIS: Brian Dawkins exudes the passion of the game with his constant ability to make a play when the defense needs it most. Although he spent the last two years playing for the Denver Broncos, he will always be known as the heart and soul of the Philly Eagles.




STEPH: Who is your favorite all time player?

ISIS: Unfortunately, I'm somewhat limited in this area because I've only watched the sport for the last ten years. So, I'm going to have to say Brian Westbrook. He is a slightly undersized running back with the versatility to placed anywhere on the field and never failed to capture my heart. His ability to slip through cracks in the defense and charge to the end zone was one of the reasons why I loved watching the game. He proved to the naysayers that despite his size with enough determination and drive he could accomplish greatness.


STEPH: Have you ever been to a game?

ISIS: Yes, I've been to three games. Two in Philly (club seats which rocked) and one in Tampa.

STEPH: What's it like?

ISIS: Amazing! The energy and the excitement seeps into every pore. Honestly, there's never a dull moment. If we could afford it, we'd have season passes.

STEPH: What's your favorite football food?

ISIS: Crab fries ☺.

STEPH: Do you have a jersey? What number?

ISIS: Of course. 93. Jevon Kearse, "The Freak".

STEPH: What's your team's "evil" nemesis?

ISIS: Although the hate for the Giants and Redskins is high, it pales in comparison to the venom we have for the Dallas Cowboys. Before I really got into watching football, I had an innate dislike for the cocky team that always rubs me the wrong way. I guess I was always meant to be an Eagles fan. Thanks again for inviting me. It's been fun!

Isis Rushdan is a native New Yorker, but has been globe-trotting since the age of 12. Wanderlust and her insatiable curiosity keep her on the move, where she seeks out great food and exceptional wine. Although she is a Major in the Air Force reserves, writing is her true calling. Her debut novel, a paranormal romance, KINDRED OF THE FALLEN, is currently on submission. To learn more about Isis, swing by her website http://isisrushdan.com/.

News From the Writing World - A Look at the Amazon Fire

The Kindle Fire will be released on 15 NOV 2011 and is Amazon's answer to the tablet. It's biggest competitor is the Ipad.

What makes the Kindle Fire appealing is its $199.00 price tag. That sure beats the mininum $499.00 Ipad price. So how does it compare as a tablet?

The Fire will have 7" screen. (The Ipad has a 9" screen.) The smaller screen is one of the reasons the price is lower. The Fire's screen will be touch sensitive and have color. Overall, the Fire will be lighter and smaller than the Ipad.

**The Fire won't have a camera.

**The Fire is Wi-Fi Only.

**The Fire has 8 hours battery life.

**The Fire has 8 G's of storage.

**The Fire won't have a microphone.

**The Fire will have availiability to music, movies, tv shows, and apps through Amazon Prime (Amazon's verison of ITunes.)

If you don't want all the bells and whistles of an Ipad, the Fire is a reasonably priced alternative. While I prefer 3G, the Fire has enough "pros" (vs cons) for me to deal with Wi-Fi. Quite honestly, I don't need a camera or microphone and a 7" screen is fine for me. I'm looking forward to it's release. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the Fire.

So, who's interested in buying the Amazon Fire? Why or Why Not?

Welcome Kitty Taylor & The Broncos to the Football Blog Tour Stop!

STEPH: Who is your favorite team?



KITTY: Denver Broncos because they're local and I liked their coach, Mike Shanahan (he's not there any more).



STEPH: What's your favorite College team?



KITTY: Air Force Academy, since I was active duty Air Force for 25 years.



STEPH: Who is your favorite Broncos player?



KITTY: I'm not sure who my favorite player is now. With two new coaches in the past three years, the Broncos' roster has undergone constant changes. The season is just starting.



STEPH: Who is your favorite all time player?



KITTY: My all time favorite player is Shanon Sharpe. Not only was he s a great player, his comments after every game always gave me a grin. Maybe that's why he ended up as part of the team on THE NFL Today on CBS.



STEPH: Have you been to a game?



KITTY: Over the years I've been to several games, but since we have our new stadium, I must prefer to stay at home and watch on TV.



STEPH: Do you own a jersey?



KITTY: I have a Broncos sweat shirt, but no jersey.



STEPH: Who is the Broncos "evil" nemesis?



KITTY: The Oakland Raiders are our arch rivals. For the Air Force Academy, it's Navy. We're always competing for the Commander & Chief's trophy.



STEPH: Thanks for popping in today, Kitty!

Smiles

Steph