Stephanie Burkhart's Blog, page 75
October 9, 2011
Welcome Joanna Aislinn & The Packers to the Football Blog Tour Stop!
JOANNA: Hi Steph. What a fun and original idea! Thanks so much for having me. Had you offered this opportunity a year ago, I would have let it go wayside. (Those who know me know I'm a BIG Rafa Nadal—oops! I mean tennis ☺—fan.) I'm newly 'into' football; started following and understanding a bit more after my sons signed up for two seasons of rec league play. My younger guy watches a lot of television related to the game so I've learned a lot and can get really excited during games. I mean, I watch the game during the Super Bowl.
On to your questions:
STEPH: So, Who is your favorite football team?
JOANNA: As a kid, I liked the Miami Dolphins b/c my brother did. These days, I follow the Giants (have to know what the home team is doing); I keep up with the Colts (my son's favorite team) and the Cowboys (my brother's choice). But: I now call myself an Aaron Rodgers (oops! I mean, Green Bay Packers) fan!
STEPH: Who is your favorite player playing now?
JOANNA: Cool, calm, collected Aaron Rodgers—and he's got that green-eyed, dark-haired thing going on (like the hubby's—before hubby went all salt-and-pepper on me ☺).
STEPH: Who is your favorite all time player?
JOANNA: Don't have one. But I happen to have been quite charmed by the likes of Jason Taylor and Warren Sapp during their stints on Dancing with the Stars. And I admire Doug Flutie's advocating for children with autism.
STEPH: Who is your team's "evil" nemesis?
JOANNA: Will have to get back to that one. Haven't been following long enough yet!
STEPH: Have you been to a game?
JOANNA: Only the kids' games. What's it like? I bite my nails hoping no one gets hurt.
STEPH: Do you have a jersey?
JOANNA: No jersey, but I did buy a Giants winter jacket last November. They started losing that following Sunday.
STEPH: What's your favorite football food?
JOANNA: Nachos? (Hint of lime, cheese, sour cream, salsa—mild; guacamole)
My debut novel: A sweet romance/first love story entitled No Matter Why is available from The Wild Rose Press.
Here's what it's about: Trust and stability became empty words the day motherless, sixteen-year-old Carrie Norwell came home to find her brothers murdered. Within moments, her father arrived and his heart gave out at the scene. Five years later, is it any wonder the walls with which she's barricaded her heart are virtually impenetrable to anyone looking to get close and offer what she wants more than anything? The security only a loving family can give? Or someone with whom to build her own?
Billy Jay Eldridge wants to offer exactly that to the right girl. Operating on a heart and spirit rivaled only by his looks, he's two years out of college and where he thought he wanted to be, managing a store at the assistant level and on his way up the chain of command. He toys daily however, with the idea of a major career move that promises to make nobler use of his God-given talents. Neither did he think he'd blur the fine line between supervisor and peer to the young ladies in his charge—that is, until shy, quiet Carrie joins his crew. Intrigued and charmed by the girl's haunted eyes and withdrawn ways he sets out to know her better, clueless that his life's calling will be the biggest setback to getting her to accept from him what she wants and needs most.
This is what friends and fans thought of No Matter Why! (Scroll down past the first review on the page please.)
Steph, thanks again for inviting me to your virtual 'tailgate party'! Best of luck with all your writing endeavors! Hope to see you at my blog soon!
Speaking of visits, I love virtual company. If you liked what you read today, please do drop by my website and blog!
Take care everyone--Joanna
October 5, 2011
Welcome Shelley Munro & the sport of Rugby to the Football Blog Tour Stop!
A palpable excitement fills the air in New Zealand at present. People are huddled around the telly, making the journey to Party Central, and those lucky enough to have tickets are rocking up to stadiums around the country.
Rugby fever has struck New Zealand!
It's Rugby World Cup year, and teams from around the world are competing for the Webb Ellis cup plus bragging honors.
The All Blacks, the New Zealand team is currently ranked the number one team in the world, yet we haven't won the cup since 1987, the first year the tournament was played. The pressure is on our boys to do well since they're on home territory.
Pool play, which has been taking place during September, is almost finished, and it's time for the serious part of the tournament to take place. The All Blacks are playing well, but we had terrible news overnight. One of our key players is injured and out for the rest of the tournament. I must say…I'm feeling a little nervous about our chances of pulling off a win without one of my favorite players, Dan Carter.
So why am I such a rugby fan?
Rugby is our main winter sport. It's a team sport with each team consisting of fifteen players. From a young age, I loved to kick around a rugby ball. At that time, women didn't play rugby, so my love of the game focused on watching rather than participating. It's a fast, skilful game. Players need to work together to get past the opposition team. Oh, and it's no hardship watching fit, muscular men run around in tight shorts and a rugby shirt. I like the team aspect, the skill required and all the technical, behind-the-scenes coaching stuff fascinates me.
And who is my favorite player?
That's a hard one because this years All Black's team is full of very talented players—a combination of younger players and more experienced ones. Let's just say I like the All Blacks, full stop.
Mention the subject of rugby in New Zealand, and you're likely to get wide-ranging reactions. Some people live and breathe the sport and go into mourning when our national team loses a match. Others just can't understand our nation's obsession with a game where grown men chase around an odd-shaped ball.
I bet you can guess which side I fall on. I make an excellent armchair coach and referee. Just ask my husband.
For those of you who are interested in rugby and the world cup check out the official RWC website http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/index.html or the All Black's site http://www.allblacks.com
If you have an iPad or iTouch you can download the free RWC 2011 application to follow latest world cup news, videos and player news. There's also a fan zone.
To finish my post, I thought I'd introduce you to the world of rugby through a video. The New Zealand All Blacks do a traditional Maori war dance called the haka at the start of each match. This clip shows parts of the haka plus actual game footage. There are two additional clips of the haka and some rugby facts at my website http://www.shelleymunro.com/for-reade...
Playing to Win
Blurb:
Professional rugby player Lane Gerrard is used to women throwing themselves at him, but a scurrilous tabloid article naming him as father of a child sends his temper soaring. The woman he confronts doesn't fit the blackmailer profile. Kate Alexander is attractive with an enchanting innocence, enticing. A total stranger. Her feistiness draws his unwilling admiration, but the child…he is the image of Lane.
Kate can't deny her son's similarity to the sexy man at her door but no way will she hand him over without a fight. Kate doesn't possess money but she can shower her son with love. With public speculation rife, Kate reluctantly works with Lane to discover the truth. They grow closer as distrust slowly turns to mutual fascination, but the tabloid articles bring out a stalker. Mild pranks escalate into danger, and suddenly Lane realizes Kate is a woman he could love. With Kate and her son, he could have a family. Now, with his heart on the line, this is one game he's playing to win.
This is a sensual romance rather than an erotic one. Currently on sale at the new low price of $0.99 at Ellora's Cave http://www.jasminejade.com/p-4293-pla...
Playing to Win is also available at All Romance ebooks and Amazon Kindle
Shelley Munro lives in New Zealand and writes hot and spicy romances for Carina Press, Ellora's Cave and Samhain Publishing. She has written several romances featuring rugby. Playing to Win and Issy's Infatuation are both m/f romances while Wanna Do Bad Things With You and Best Man are m/m romances. You can visit Shelley and learn more about her books at http://www.shelleymunro.com
October 4, 2011
The Father of Steampunk - HG Wells
HG Wells
Herbert George Wells (HG Wells) was born 21 September 1866 and became famous for writing science fiction – science fiction that a 100 years later have come true. He had a vision, a real vision, and it came across in his writing.
Wells also tackled other genres in his day – contemporary fiction, politics and social commentary. Often, Wells is referred to as one of the fathers of science fiction, but it could be argued he is also one of the founding fathers of steampunk.
What's steampunk? Start with Queen Victoria (1837-1901) add a dash of setting of your choice, pepper in some funky gadgets like datamancers, transmogrifiers, and whuzzies, throw in a pinch of soot, and top it off with a handful of coal. Don't forget your goggles – you've got steampunk.
Wells grew up in Kent, but a broken leg left him bedridden when he was 8, so he turned to books and writing to get him through, cultivating his creative imagination.
His parents' marriage was rocky, but he managed to get a scholarship. Wells admitted growing up very hungry and pictures of him as youth show him very thin.
He earned a B.S. in Zoology in 1890. Though he was married, twice, Wells had several affairs and several children by his mistresses.
Interestingly, his first non-fiction bestseller talked about what life would be like in the year 2000. What did he get right? Trains and cars would help people move out of the city to suburbs, morals in women and men would decline, and a there would be a European Union. What did he miss? No successful aircraft until 1950; and submarines wouldn't work. These thoughts were published in 1901 under the mouthful: "Anticipations of the Reactions of Mechanical and Scientific Progress upon Human Life and Thought."
SCIENTIFIC ROMANCE?
Interestingly, at the time they were written, Wells' early novels were referred to as scientific romances. What were some of these novels?
The Time Machine
The Island of Doctor Moreau
The Invisible Man
The War of the Worlds
Just to name a few…
Surprisingly, or perhaps not so much, he was a socialist. Knowing that he'd grown up poor and hungry, maybe he thought the government could have helped him out more.
THE WAR OF THE WORLDS
Wells died in August 1946, 79 years old, so he was alive during Orsen Welles infamous broadcast of "The War of The Worlds." At the time of the broadcast, Wells was surprised by the widespread panic it caused.
WHY STEAMPUNK?
I remember watching Gene Rodenberry say that Star Trek, with its futuristic setting, allowed him to make commentary on his life and times in such a way that people would actually have to stop and reflect.
I think the same could be said for HG Wells. His science fiction settings allowed us to see futuristic/speculative worlds, and in fact, many of his writings voice social commentary. The Time Machine, for example, has the traveler visiting the Morlocks and the Eloi. (The haves and haves not)
Steampunk demands the same creativity and imagination that Wells displayed in his writing, and he was writing during the time frame a steampunk novel should take place. He was a steampunk contemporary.
Perhaps what's earned him the "father of steampunk" is the depth of his writing, his vision, and his ability to be prolific. It is, however, a title I feel he's earned in light of his life, how he lived, and how his writing has inspired others.
Before I go, let me share one of my favorite HG Wells quotes: If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.
Smiles
Steph
Herbert George Wells (HG Wells) was born 21 September 1866 and became famous for writing science fiction – science fiction that a 100 years later have come true. He had a vision, a real vision, and it came across in his writing.
Wells also tackled other genres in his day – contemporary fiction, politics and social commentary. Often, Wells is referred to as one of the fathers of science fiction, but it could be argued he is also one of the founding fathers of steampunk.
What's steampunk? Start with Queen Victoria (1837-1901) add a dash of setting of your choice, pepper in some funky gadgets like datamancers, transmogrifiers, and whuzzies, throw in a pinch of soot, and top it off with a handful of coal. Don't forget your goggles – you've got steampunk.
Wells grew up in Kent, but a broken leg left him bedridden when he was 8, so he turned to books and writing to get him through, cultivating his creative imagination.
His parents' marriage was rocky, but he managed to get a scholarship. Wells admitted growing up very hungry and pictures of him as youth show him very thin.
He earned a B.S. in Zoology in 1890. Though he was married, twice, Wells had several affairs and several children by his mistresses.
Interestingly, his first non-fiction bestseller talked about what life would be like in the year 2000. What did he get right? Trains and cars would help people move out of the city to suburbs, morals in women and men would decline, and a there would be a European Union. What did he miss? No successful aircraft until 1950; and submarines wouldn't work. These thoughts were published in 1901 under the mouthful: "Anticipations of the Reactions of Mechanical and Scientific Progress upon Human Life and Thought."
SCIENTIFIC ROMANCE?
Interestingly, at the time they were written, Wells' early novels were referred to as scientific romances. What were some of these novels?
The Time Machine
The Island of Doctor Moreau
The Invisible Man
The War of the Worlds
Just to name a few…
Surprisingly, or perhaps not so much, he was a socialist. Knowing that he'd grown up poor and hungry, maybe he thought the government could have helped him out more.
THE WAR OF THE WORLDS
Wells died in August 1946, 79 years old, so he was alive during Orsen Welles infamous broadcast of "The War of The Worlds." At the time of the broadcast, Wells was surprised by the widespread panic it caused.
WHY STEAMPUNK?
I remember watching Gene Rodenberry say that Star Trek, with its futuristic setting, allowed him to make commentary on his life and times in such a way that people would actually have to stop and reflect.
I think the same could be said for HG Wells. His science fiction settings allowed us to see futuristic/speculative worlds, and in fact, many of his writings voice social commentary. The Time Machine, for example, has the traveler visiting the Morlocks and the Eloi. (The haves and haves not)
Steampunk demands the same creativity and imagination that Wells displayed in his writing, and he was writing during the time frame a steampunk novel should take place. He was a steampunk contemporary.
Perhaps what's earned him the "father of steampunk" is the depth of his writing, his vision, and his ability to be prolific. It is, however, a title I feel he's earned in light of his life, how he lived, and how his writing has inspired others.
Before I go, let me share one of my favorite HG Wells quotes: If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.
Smiles
Steph
October 2, 2011
Welcome Jenna McClure & The Georgia Bulldogs to the Football Blog Tour Stop!
I'd like to welcome author Jeanna McClure to the Football Tour Blog Stop today. Take it away, Jeanna!
STEPH: Who's your favorite football team? How long have you been a fan?
JENNA: My favorite team is the University of Georgia Bulldogs. I've been a fan since I attended college there, oh, some years ago.
STEPH: Who's your favorite player "playing" right now? Why?
JENNA: My favorite player is Knowshon Moreno. He is a Georgia Bulldog, but he plays for the Denver Broncos. He is an explosive and dynamic player who turns good plays into great ones. He is so fun and amazing to watch. (I've attached a picture of him in action from his UGA days.)
STEPH: Who's your favorite all time football player?
JENNA: I'd have to say Hines Ward, another former Bulldog playing in the NFL. He is a genuinely nice guy and one of the best receivers to ever play the game. He always has a smile on his face, so it seems he really loves playing football for the sheer fun of it.
STEPH: Who's the Bulldog's "evil" nemsis?
JENNA: Ah, this has to be the Florida Gators. Really, any team that wears orange, but especially Florida.
STEPH: Ever been to a football game? What's it like?
JENNA: I went to most of the games as a student, and some in my post-collegiate life. The latest one was last fall up in Boulder when we unfortunately lost to CU. The Redcoat Band and the cheerleaders all stopped by our tail-gating party to share in the UGA game-day fun, and remind us of what it used to be like as a student. College games are very high energy, fun and a blast from the past. Of course, they are so much more fun when we win!
STEPH: Do you own a jersey?
JENNA: My dog wears a UGA collar, I have a Hines Ward Steeler's jersey, and about 20 UGA shirts, several hats and jewelry, but no jersey. I'll have to remedy that this year!
STEPH: What's your favorite food to eat during the game?
JENNA: Cheese fries with ranch dipping sauce, hands down. I used to chase that with some serious Diet Coke, but now it's either tea or beer.
Jeanna's book is Animal Attraction. Here is the blurb:
Environmental consultant Emmalyn Ashmore is outraged when she discovers the last minute replacement for the guest speaker at her annual conference is none other than Adam McLean, a cattle rancher, whose lifestyle represents everything she stands against.
Adam McLean has never met a more contrary woman. From the moment Emmalyn opens her mouth, he knows she's exactly the type of woman he doesn't need in his life—ever.
As the sparks fly, Emma realizes there's more at stake than conserving the environment. She has to figure out how to conserve her heart, before she loses it forever.
Link to TWRP to purchase: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index...
Link to Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_nos...
Website: www.jennamcclure.com
Twitter: @JennaMcClureRW
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jenn...
September 29, 2011
California Lighthouse Series - Pigeon Point, CA
A couple of weeks ago I shared with you one of the ugliest lighthouses in California at Long Beach. Today, I make up for it by sharing one of the most picturesque lighthouses – Pigeon Point.
Pigeon Point is located south of San Francisco on a rocky promontory. (mass of rocks) Its 115 feet tower makes it one of the tallest lighthouses on California's coast.
Pigeon Point opened in SEP 1871 with a steam whistle (fog signal). Unfortunately, bad weather and heavy rain caused a 14 month delay with installing the light. On 15 NOV 1872, the 1st order Frensel lens went into use. A frensel lens was developed by French physicist Augustin-Jean Fresnel for lighthouses. The design allows the construction of lenses of large aperture and short focal length without the mass and volume of material that would be required by a lens of conventional design. Compared to conventional bulky lenses, the Fresnel lens is much thinner, larger, and flatter, and captures more oblique light from a light source, thus allowing lighthouses to be visible over much greater distances. (Definition taken from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresnel_...)
Pigeon Point's Frensel lens weighed 4 tons and rotated every 4 seconds. Originally powered by a clockworks and weight, electricity replaced that in 1926.
A lighthouse is only as interesting as the people and stories behind it and Pigeon Point has some interesting stories. The one I found most interesting involved The Carrier Pigeon, a 175 ft. Clipper ship.
That's a Bummer
In the fall of 1852, a Clipper ship, The Carrier Pigeon, began its maiden voyage from Bath, Maine. After traveling around Cape Horn, it traveled up the west coast of the Americas. Not far away from San Francisco, near Santa Cruz, the fog really got thick and the boat struck rocks, sinking. The crew made it to shore, but the ship was lost. Sadly, the boat was valued at $54,000. In the 1860's, 3 more ships were lost in this area due to the heavy fog.
Can you imagine traveling months down the east coast of the Americas, through Cape Horn and up the west side of the America only to crash miles from your destination? Big Bummer.
Today the tours to the tower are closed due to crumbling brickwork, but every year on the 15th of NOV the Frensel lens is lit to celebrate its anniversary. The lighthouse keepers housing currently serves as a youth hostel.
September 28, 2011
Welcome Cathy Pegau & The Giants to the Football Blog Stop Tour!
STEPH: Who's your favorite football team? How long have you been a fan?
CATHY: My favorite team is the NY Giants. I've been a fan essentially since birth because my father was a fan. Sundays in our house were for football. Nothing else.
STEPH: Who's your favorite player "playing" right now? Why?
CATHY: After this last game on 9/25, WR Victor Cruz. He made some amazing catches during and shows huge promise. He's a talent that the Big Blue needs to cultivate.
But I'm also a huge fan of the defensive game. Watching Osi Umenyiora, Justin Tuck, Aaron Ross and Antrel Rolle in action is a thrill.
STEPH: Who's your favorite all time Giants player?
CATHY: Tough choice, so I'm going to cheat and give you three : ) Michael Strahan for his enthusiasm and toughness. Lawrence Taylor for his relentlessness. Phil Simms for his skill. All three also are so knowledgeable about the game, it's mindblowing.
STEPH: Who's the Giants "evil" nemsis?
CATHY: Dallas Cowgirls Cowboys. My father-in-law is a Cowboys fan, so we have a friendly rivalry going on : ) And anyone who is playing the Cowboys is the team I root for, even if it's the Philadelphia Eagles!
STEPH: Ever been to a football game? What's it like?
CATHY: I went to one game when I was 15 or so. It was freakin' cold! But soooo fun! The atmosphere around a professional game is like nothing else.
STEPH: Do you own a jersey?
CATHY: I do! #10, Eli Manning. I inherited it when my dad passed away.
STEPH: What's your favorite food to eat during the game?
CATHY: For something quick and easy, nachos. A more elaborate snack is wings. And a good cold beer.
BOOK INFO
Rulebreaker from Carina Press
Buy links:
Carina http://tinyurl.com/452do63
Amazon http://tinyurl.com/3s8hnl5
B&N http://tinyurl.com/3mocjps
Blurb:
Liv Braxton's Felon Rule #1: Don't get emotionally involved.
Smash-and-grab thieving doesn't lend itself to getting chummy with the victims, and Liv hasn't met anyone on the mining colony of Nevarro worth knowing, anyway. So it's easy to follow her Rules.
Until her ex, Tonio, shows up with an invitation to join him on the job of a lifetime.
Until Zia Talbot, the woman she's supposed to deceive, turns Liv's expectations upside down in a way no woman ever has.
Until corporate secrets turn deadly.
But to make things work with Zia, Liv has to do more than break her Rules, and the stakes are higher than just a broken heart…
Reviews:
*From The Galaxy Express http://www.thegalaxyexpress.net/2011/...
"RULEBREAKER is a book that made a couple of wishes come true for me, and also a few others I didn't realize I had."
"If you enjoy stories with a redemption arc, RULEBREAKER has it. If you like colorful secondary characters, this story has it. And finally, if you're even a fan of COLUMBO-style investigators, then this story has that, too."
*From Amazon http://tinyurl.com/3s8hnl5
Bella Street: "I was immediately hooked by the droll humor and great characters who populate this book, and was impressed by the perfect balance of world building and tightly-woven plotline."
H. Cashman: "I liked all the action, the intrigue, and the twists this story brought."
Mercurial Times : "I thoroughly enjoyed this SFR espionage novel. The worldbuilding is very good, the main characters are vivid and vivacious."
*From Loving Venus-Loving Mars http://bi-curious-romancenovel-chat.b...
"All in all Rulebreaker is an excellent read. It's suspenseful and has a lot of interesting twists and side corridors that are fun to go down. The writing is smooth with a perfect pace, which kept me on edge until the end."
*From Lesbrary http://lesbrary.wordpress.com/2011/08...
"I knew I liked Rulebreaker when I kept thinking of other books and fanfiction to compare it to."
"Pegau showed herself willing to make difficult authorial decisions in order to lend weight to her narrative, and both Liv and Zia were portrayed as sympathetic, if flawed, people."
*From Smexybooks.com http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/08/gue...
"...let me say that the writing and world-building are excellent. The futuristic details add a lot of flavor but don't overwhelm the story. There is a stylish, sexy quality to the writing, despite the fact that there is very little sex. Rulebreaker reminded me of a George Clooney caper film. It's compelling and charismatic."
September 27, 2011
Steph's Favorites Read to date!
I know its September and usually people wait to list their favorites, buy hey, we just had the Emmy's so I figured why not share some of my favorite reads now? ~~grin~~ (I promise a top ten in January)
NOT WITHOUT RISK by Sarah Grimm
Contemporary romantic suspense
Set in San Diego, Paige and Justin must learn to trust each other and love if they want a future together. Excellent! I was on the edge of my seat the entire novel. Romantic with pulse-pounding suspense.
Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-Ris...
HIS CONQUEST by Diana CosbyScottish historical romance
Set in Scotland, 1297, Lady Linet, an English noblewoman, frees Scottish lord Seathan Grey from a dungeon, but the journey to his keep is rife with peril. Cosby weaves love and danger effortlessly in order to tell a highly romantic, suspense filled story.
Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/His-Conquest-Di...
THE ARRIVAL OF LILY CURTIS by Rachel BrimbleVictorian/Historical Romance
Lily wants to find love on her own terms. After convincing her parents to allow her to work as a maid, she meets Andrew, Viscount Westrope and the sparks fly. Dare they follow their hearts despite the conventions of the day? The chemistry between the couple is combustible and the inner conflict that keeps them both at bay is well done!
Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/Arrival-Lily-Cu...
OSIRIS' MISSING PART by Mona Risk
Historical/Egyptian Romance
Isis brings Osiris back to life, but can she tame the womanizer's ways? Rich in history, adventure and love.
Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/Osiris-Missing-...
REDEMPTION FOR THE DEVIL by Jillian ChantelVintage Romance
Can a boy from the wrong side of the tracks win an honest woman's love? Part of the novel is set on the Mauretania and I swear I felt like a fly on the wall. A heartwarming read – especially watching Liam and Peg grow as characters.
Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/Redemption-for-...
So, what stories have been your favorite so far?
PS… I just want to gush a little. Peter Dinklage who plays "Tyrian Lannister" from GAME OF THRONES won the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor! Well earned! Games of Thrones is a book I'm reading now and I really like it! The Mini-series is "spot on" with the book. Sign in if you want to give a shout out to Peter!
September 25, 2011
Welcome Julie Lence & the Colts to the Football Blog Tour Stop!
STEPH: Julie, welcome to the football blog tour stop! Who's your favorite football team? How long have you been a fan?
JULIE: The Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots, 6 years, give or take, each.
STEPH: Who's your favorite player "playing" right now? Why?
JULIE: Peyton Manning. He seems like a very nice person, and he has a dedication not only to his craft and team but to every aspect of the game. He works diligently with his rookies to help them hone their talents, and he's constantly practicing and looking for ways to better himself and his skills. Plus, when he's at fault for a mistake made during the game, he blames no one but himself. In my opinion, he truly exudes good sportsmanship all the way around.
STEPH: Who's your favorite all time Colts player?
JULIE: Peyton Manning
STEPH: Who's the Colt's "evil" Nemesis?
JULIE: I don't really have an evil nemesis, as far as a team or a player. There are some players I don't care for, mostly for their off-field antics, like Michael Vick and his dog fighting ring, but I wouldn't necessarily say they are evil people. They just do stupid things, which, in my opinion, doesn't make them good role models, especially for children who dream of playing the sport professionally one day.
STEPH: Ever been to a football game? What's it like?
JULIE: Yes. A few years ago, my son entered a contest to be the 'Kick-off' kid for the Denver Broncos. During the pre-season games and the regular games, one child, accompanied by a parent, went down to the field and onto the sidelines with their escort from the Broncos. Every time the Denver Broncos kicked off and the play was over, the child rushed out onto the field and retrieved the football tee. My son won the opportunity to do this for one of the pre-season games and had a great time. Up close to the players, his name was announced over the sound system the first time he went onto the field and he was on the big screen each time he ran out to retrieve the tee. He also had his picture taken with some of the cheerleaders, and I watched all of this from way up high in the stands, as the hubby accompanied him onto the field. I think the Broncos were playing Cleveland that day, but had it been the Colts or the Patriots, I would have been on the field with him. All in all, it was a great experience for him, but I much prefer watching the games at home, where I have a front row seat to see all of the action.
STEPH: Do you own a jersey?
JULIE: Yes. Three of them: Peyton Manning, Eli Manning and Tom Brady
STEPH: What's your favorite food to eat during the game?
JULIE: Chicken wings, Artichoke Dip with Rye bread and fresh vegetables.
Blurb for No Luck at All:
The youngest son of a wealthy rancher, Creel Weston spent his childhood breaking wild mustangs and dreaming of becoming a doctor. Being blackmailed into marrying a spoiled socialite wasn't part of his plans, especially when he loved her. He'd take Racine back home with him and find a comfortable ground with her. Trouble was, she wasn't as spoiled as he'd been led to believe, and harbored scars that would take more than his doctoring skills to heal.
Boston socialite Racine Somerfield had an unbearable childhood. Mama despised her, and although he said he loved her, Papa couldn't wait to get rid of her. Marrying Creel and accompanying him back to his home in Colorado Territory, Racine hoped to find some semblance of peace and happiness at Wooded Acres, and in Creel's arms. She didn't expect to add another wound to those she already carried.
Western Historical Romance Author
www.julielence.com
www.AsylettPress.com
September 23, 2011
Welcome Jami Davenport & The Seahawks to the Football Blog Stop Tour
STEPH: Who's your favorite football team? How long have you been a fan?
JAMI: The Seattle Seahawks. I've been a fan since their birth in 1976.
STEPH: Who's your favorite player "playing" right now? Why?
JAMI: That's a tough one, as most the veterans on the team are gone. I guess I'd have to say Marcus Trufant because he's a hometown boy. If you're talking football player among all the teams, I've come to like Aaron Rodgers, especially since he's my fantasy football quarterback, and it's looking pretty good so far.
STEPH: Who's your favorite all time player?
JAMI: That would be Jim Zorn. I remember the Seahawk's first years when didn't stand a chance, yet Zorn and Largent always seemed to pull a rabbit out of their hats and win games they had no business winning. I loved it back in those days because it was exciting to watch them, and you never knew what was coming next.
STEPH: Who's the Seahawks "evil" nemsis?
JAMI: When we were in the AFC West, it was Oakland Raiders. We had season tickets back in those days, and we loved to hate those Raiders. Now, I'd have to say the St. Louis Rams, but it's not the same.
STEPH: Ever been to a football game? What's it like?
JAMI: Yes, we had season tickets for years when the Hawks still played in the King Dome. If you've never been at a home Seahawk game, you have no idea why the 12th man is called the loudest fans in the league. Believe me, we deserve that honor. I've left games with my ears ringing and my head pounding. I swear I don't hear very well because of those games. I've screamed myself hoarse at just about every game.
STEPH: Do you own a jersey?
JAMI: Two, which I bought last year, and neither player is on the team this year (Hasselbeck and Tatupu). L
STEPH: What's your favorite food to eat during the game?
JAMI: A hot dog, what else?
REVIEWS:
"I got sucked into this book. I mean, hook line and sinker sucked in. I was deeply invested in these characters. Hooked folks, I'm positively hooked."--Recommended Read from Wendy, the Super Librarian
"The ending was heartrending and I loved reading my way through the football season with a player who had lost his mojo." -- Jane Litte via Goodreads
"I am thoroughly impressed with Ms. Davenport's ability to instill escapism in her story. For the duration, I was consumed with her tale of two friends to lovers intertwined with football." -- Top Pick from Yadira, Night Owl Reviews
"Romance so real that you feel you are there."--Trixie, Blackravens Reviews
"With sultry and inventive sex scenes, heart-breaking sorrow, nail-biting football plays and a cast that is captivating and engaging, Fourth and Goal is a winner!" -- Whipped Cream Reviews
BLURB:
In a game played on and off the field, only one of them will emerge the winner.
Armed with an uncanny ability for evaluating football talent, a dogged determination to succeed in a man's world, and an empty bank account, Rachel McCormick agrees to help struggling wide receiver Derek Ramsey get his game back. Rachel believes Derek, her former best friend and lover, knows the truth behind the points-shaving scandal which ruined her father. She vows to expose the secret even if it destroys Derek in the process.
When Derek's coach suggests sex as an excellent tension reliever the night before a game, Rachel takes one for the team. The next day, Derek has the best performance of his not-so illustrious pro football career.
As Derek and Rachel rack up nights in bed and other places, the team racks up wins on the field. Rachel is torn between her loyalty to her father and her growing affection for Derek. Now it's fourth and goal, one second left on the clock. Their hearts are on the line. Do they trust each other enough to go for the long bomb or do they get dropped for a loss?
BUY LINKS:
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Fourth-and-Goal...
ARE:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/produ...
Fictionwise:
http://www.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b12...
Sony:
http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/jami...
Loose id:
http://www.loose-id.com/Our-Authors/J...
Barnes and Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fourt...
September 21, 2011
Welcome Elaine Cantrel & the Clemons Tigers to the Football Blog Tour Stop!
CLEMSON TIGERS
Do you like football? I live in the South, and there aren't many people in the South who don't like football. Some Southerners like pro teams, and some like college teams. Some follow high school football, and some follow all three.
Personally, I first learned about football when I was in high school. I didn't miss a single high school football game until my senior year. After I graduated from high school, I went off to college and became a Clemson Tiger. Then I got married, and my husband taught me to watch NFL football on TV.
So, why do we do it? Why do we devote sometimes an entire day to football when there are so many other things we could be doing? First, we do it because we like the game. We get a thrill out of watching the game and dissecting what everyone on the field should have done. And of course that includes the coach!
Second, we do it because there's a social aspect to it. We get to see our friends and exchange news. One of the most important social aspects is tailgating. Have you ever done that? On the day of the football game we have a picnic out of our cars, vans or SUVs in the stadium parking lot. Some people pick up a bucket of KFC, but others bring their grills and cook steaks. If you can think of a menu, you can find it. Many local restaurants have picnic baskets that you can pick up on your way to the game.
You see paper plates, plastic dinnerware, and in a few cases nice china. Oh, and some people bring liquid refreshment.
Third, we get to live vicariously through the team and the cheerleaders. For a few hours we can pretend we're a star.
And fourth, it gives us a sense of satisfaction and tradition to participate in a fall ritual that's been going on for many years.
The team that I follow most closely is the Clemson Tigers. On the days when Clemson is playing we hang our tiger tail from the tailgate of our SUV, and we fly orange flags because orange and purple are Clemson's colors. At the school where I work, we have a luncheon when Clemson plays their arch rival Carolina. Followers of each team decorates one side of the faculty lounge, and we all bring party foods which we have for lunch. It's fun, and on that day lots of emails fly back and forth between followers of each team.
My last release is called A New Dream, and guess what job the hero has in the beginning of the book? He's an NFL player for the Green Bay Packers. It just seemed like an obvious choice to me!
If you've never caught football fever, let me get you started. First of all, buy a team jersey. Then, pick up some hot wings, nachos, or whatever it is you like to snack on. Invite as many of your friends as you can accommodate in your home, and then sit back and enjoy yourself.
Blurb for A New Dream
Blurb: A New Dream
What do you do when you lose everything?
After an auto accident destroys his pro-football career, Matt McCallum struggles to find a new dream for his life, but nothing engages him the way football did. After a stint in rehab, he takes a job managing a grocery store where he meets Violet Emerson.
Violet works in the bakery department, but her dreams carry her far beyond the doors of Chef's Pantry. As soon as she can save the money, she plans to open a catering business. And she thinks the new manager's broad shoulders and blue eyes are simply divine.
Thrown together at work, Matt and Violet find a common dream for their lives, but a loose end from Matt's past returns to jeopardize their future. Will love be enough to save their new dream before it turns into a nightmare?
Buy Link
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...
Reviews
Romance Junkies Read the full review at http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artm...
RJ gave A New Dream a 4.5 and said, A NEW DREAM is a wonderful contemporary romance with heartwarming characters and heartfelt moments. Elaine Cantrell creates a beautiful, believable relationship with old fashioned values that adds sweetness to the story. All of her characters were likable with emotions and reactions that one can relate to. My favorite though had to be the hero Matt, who had to face a very difficult reality. His growth and the way Ms. Cantrell portrayed his struggles with coming to terms with the changes in his life was nicely done. This is one of the best inspirational romances I've read in a while.
Romantic Times gave a New Dream 4 stars and said,
Readers will love this touching and inspirational story in which a former football player learns to live his life under new terms after a tragic accident. As he journeys toward a new dream he meets (Violet) and falls in love.
Do you like football? I live in the South, and there aren't many people in the South who don't like football. Some Southerners like pro teams, and some like college teams. Some follow high school football, and some follow all three.
Personally, I first learned about football when I was in high school. I didn't miss a single high school football game until my senior year. After I graduated from high school, I went off to college and became a Clemson Tiger. Then I got married, and my husband taught me to watch NFL football on TV.
So, why do we do it? Why do we devote sometimes an entire day to football when there are so many other things we could be doing? First, we do it because we like the game. We get a thrill out of watching the game and dissecting what everyone on the field should have done. And of course that includes the coach!
Second, we do it because there's a social aspect to it. We get to see our friends and exchange news. One of the most important social aspects is tailgating. Have you ever done that? On the day of the football game we have a picnic out of our cars, vans or SUVs in the stadium parking lot. Some people pick up a bucket of KFC, but others bring their grills and cook steaks. If you can think of a menu, you can find it. Many local restaurants have picnic baskets that you can pick up on your way to the game.
You see paper plates, plastic dinnerware, and in a few cases nice china. Oh, and some people bring liquid refreshment.
Third, we get to live vicariously through the team and the cheerleaders. For a few hours we can pretend we're a star.
And fourth, it gives us a sense of satisfaction and tradition to participate in a fall ritual that's been going on for many years.
The team that I follow most closely is the Clemson Tigers. On the days when Clemson is playing we hang our tiger tail from the tailgate of our SUV, and we fly orange flags because orange and purple are Clemson's colors. At the school where I work, we have a luncheon when Clemson plays their arch rival Carolina. Followers of each team decorates one side of the faculty lounge, and we all bring party foods which we have for lunch. It's fun, and on that day lots of emails fly back and forth between followers of each team.
My last release is called A New Dream, and guess what job the hero has in the beginning of the book? He's an NFL player for the Green Bay Packers. It just seemed like an obvious choice to me!
If you've never caught football fever, let me get you started. First of all, buy a team jersey. Then, pick up some hot wings, nachos, or whatever it is you like to snack on. Invite as many of your friends as you can accommodate in your home, and then sit back and enjoy yourself.
Blurb for A New Dream
Blurb: A New Dream
What do you do when you lose everything?
After an auto accident destroys his pro-football career, Matt McCallum struggles to find a new dream for his life, but nothing engages him the way football did. After a stint in rehab, he takes a job managing a grocery store where he meets Violet Emerson.
Violet works in the bakery department, but her dreams carry her far beyond the doors of Chef's Pantry. As soon as she can save the money, she plans to open a catering business. And she thinks the new manager's broad shoulders and blue eyes are simply divine.
Thrown together at work, Matt and Violet find a common dream for their lives, but a loose end from Matt's past returns to jeopardize their future. Will love be enough to save their new dream before it turns into a nightmare?
Buy Link
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...
Reviews
Romance Junkies Read the full review at http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artm...
RJ gave A New Dream a 4.5 and said, A NEW DREAM is a wonderful contemporary romance with heartwarming characters and heartfelt moments. Elaine Cantrell creates a beautiful, believable relationship with old fashioned values that adds sweetness to the story. All of her characters were likable with emotions and reactions that one can relate to. My favorite though had to be the hero Matt, who had to face a very difficult reality. His growth and the way Ms. Cantrell portrayed his struggles with coming to terms with the changes in his life was nicely done. This is one of the best inspirational romances I've read in a while.
Romantic Times gave a New Dream 4 stars and said,
Readers will love this touching and inspirational story in which a former football player learns to live his life under new terms after a tragic accident. As he journeys toward a new dream he meets (Violet) and falls in love.
