Robyn Echols's Blog, page 12
February 1, 2016
Branding Wednesday Wonders
Now that I am getting more comfortable using twitter banners to promote blogs and books, I decided it was time to "brand" my Wednesday Wonders feature for this blog.
I started several weeks ago to use a nameplate at the top of every Wednesday Wonders blog post featuring guest authors. My intent was to set this apart from blogs that are about me and my books.
For Twitter banners and images to put on Facebook, I have been using a variation of a banner for Robyn Echols Books with a blank background in four color choices. Here are two:
Today I worked on a Twitter banner blank that I can use with every guest author I feature. I chose an image that is compatible with my Yosemite background shot I have been using for my Facebook, Blogger and Twitter banner for the past several years. I pulled up a new photo I took late last fall, the same one I used for my "Happy Thanksgiving" wish to my friends, family and followers:
Unfortunately, when I tried to insert a book in the blue sky portion, the background image was so busy it overwhelmed the book I planned to feature. So, back to the photo-editing program. I pulled up another image of the same scene, but one that involved a lighter sky, less of El Capitan and more of Cathedral Rocks. A little cropping, greening up my trees, adding my logo and contact information and -- Ta da! -- my new banner for featuring Wednesday Wonders books:
I'll see how this goes for awhile -- until I come up with something different.
I started several weeks ago to use a nameplate at the top of every Wednesday Wonders blog post featuring guest authors. My intent was to set this apart from blogs that are about me and my books.
For Twitter banners and images to put on Facebook, I have been using a variation of a banner for Robyn Echols Books with a blank background in four color choices. Here are two:
Today I worked on a Twitter banner blank that I can use with every guest author I feature. I chose an image that is compatible with my Yosemite background shot I have been using for my Facebook, Blogger and Twitter banner for the past several years. I pulled up a new photo I took late last fall, the same one I used for my "Happy Thanksgiving" wish to my friends, family and followers:
Unfortunately, when I tried to insert a book in the blue sky portion, the background image was so busy it overwhelmed the book I planned to feature. So, back to the photo-editing program. I pulled up another image of the same scene, but one that involved a lighter sky, less of El Capitan and more of Cathedral Rocks. A little cropping, greening up my trees, adding my logo and contact information and -- Ta da! -- my new banner for featuring Wednesday Wonders books:
I'll see how this goes for awhile -- until I come up with something different.
January 27, 2016
Wednesday Wonders: THE CAPTAIN AND THE CHEERLEADER
Today’s Wednesday Wonders features Elaine Cantrell and her contemporary romance, The Captain and the Cheerleader.
Book Description :
Susan English can’t stand Robin Lanford! She’s so full of herself she irritates everyone on the faculty of Fairfield High. When Robin bets Susan fifty dollars that she can’t get a date with Kurt Deveraux, the head football coach, Susan jumps at the chance to put the little heifer in her place. She had no idea that teaching Robin a lesson would irrevocably change her life, strain treasured friendships, and throw two families into chaos.
Excerpt :
Susan bounced out of her car with a smile on her face. Usually she dreaded Monday morning, but not today. Today she felt better, and she’d have that talk with Kurt. On the way to her mailbox in the faculty lounge, she mentally rehearsed what she would say when Kurt asked to see her again. Turning the corner into the room, she was greeted by a roomful of teachers, about half of whom clapped and cheered her arrival.
Don Brooks laughed and handed her an envelope. “We’ve been waiting for you. We hear that you won some money over the weekend.”
“I told them you went out with him on Saturday,” Melissa explained.
Robin appraised Susan with a gleam in her eyes. “I underestimated you, Susan. How did you do it?”
Susan shrugged. “I let him know I was interested. He did the rest.”
“Well, I guess you deserve to win.”
Susan handed the envelope back to Don. “I don’t want anyone’s money. I wish I’d never made that stupid bet, and I don’t want any part of it. Just take your money back.”
“No, you won it fair and square,” insisted Robin. “Take it.”
“I won’t do that, Robin.”
Kurt arrived just in time to hear Susan’s answer. “Won’t do what?” he asked as he stepped into the lounge and approached her side. He had a nice little smile on his face that made her think he was glad to see her.
The air in the lounge turned positively electric.
About the Author:
Elaine Cantrell was born and raised in South Carolina. She holds a master’s degree in personnel services from Clemson University. She is a member of Alpha Delta Kappa, an international honorary society for women educators and is also a member of Romance Writers of America. Her first novel, A New Leaf, was the 2003 winner of the Timeless Love Contest. When she isn’t writing or teaching, she enjoys reading, traveling, and collecting vintage Christmas ornaments. Author Links:Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Smashwords
Tweet this blog post : Susan had no idea teaching Robin a lesson would irrevocably change her life @ElaineCantrell http://bit.ly/1nLdSyl#WedWonders
January 20, 2016
Wednesday Wonders: THE MATCHUP
Today's Wednesday Wonders features THE MATCHUP by Laura Walker.
About the Book :
The last thing Valerie wants or needs is to work for Gage, whom she loathed as a teen. But Valerie's husband just walked out on her. Now she needs a job. Gage, on the other hand, has just taken custody of his four-year-old son and is swamped trying to balance his career, be a daddy, and fix past mistakes. Together they discover that when it comes to the Church and each other, it's all about second chances. This sweet LDS romance will renew your faith in love and redemption.
Excerpt
:The grim line of Gage's mouth told her all she needed to know about how he felt about missions. He obviously hadn't come back into the Church, she thought sadly. He was one against the world, a feeling she was very familiar with lately. For some strange reason, the thought made Valerie want to wrap her arms around him.
Which, of course, she would never do.
"What's wrong, Gage?"
He shrugged as if whatever was bothering him was of no consequence, but Valerie recognized the signs of someone in distress--the averted gaze and loud swallowing. The jawline that was tight enough to crack his teeth.
And although he was obviously trying for a light tone, Valerie didn't miss the strain in his voice. "I'm just trying to figure a few things out. Mainly, I've decided that I need to file for custody of my four-year-old son, but the logistics of that change will difficult to work around, especially where my job is concerned."
She hadn't known that he'd gotten married. No sooner had that thought come than when another followed, which formed a sick feeling in her stomach. What if he hadn't married her?
About the author :
Laura Walker grew up in southern Arizona. She met her husband, Rob, at Northern Arizona University where she earned her bachelor degree in Elementary Education. Now, taking care of their six children is a full-time job. Laura is the author of Pierced by Love.Connect with Laura :
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books & things | Deseret Books
Tweet this blog post: Click HERE.
Second chances at love and redemption THE MATCHUP by @llwalkerauthor http://bit.ly/1Ppuh1A#WedWonders #RobynEcholsBooks
January 13, 2016
Wednesday Wonders: OLD AMARILLO AMISH JOURNEYS #1
Today Wednesday Wonders features Old Amarillo: Amish Journeys #1 by Sara Barnard.
About the Book :
Upon returning from her Rumspringa in New York City, Katie Knepp is certain of her need to remain Amish. However, the memories of her newfound independence have left her thirsting for more adventure than can be found on her family’s farm in Gasthof Village, Indiana. After praying for guidance she remembers a conversation about a bee-keeping Mennonite settlement in the wilds of west Texas and the tugging of her heartstrings almost makes the decision for her. Leaving her parents proved hard enough, but leaving her twin sister Annie and hopeful fiancé Peter Wagler made getting out of Indiana almost impossible. Katie learns all too early in her journey that the trail to Texas is a rough one, laced with barbed wire fences that stretch for miles, railroads that attract would-be could-be bandits, and a drought so severe that even turning back isn’t an option.About the Author :
Sara Barnard is mother to four beautiful children, daughter to a pair of awesome parents who have become two of her best friends over the years, wife to a handsome Texan, student to her Master's of Arts in European History classes, and friend to many. Oh, she writes some, too.
Sara began writing in the third grade, but became serious about becoming published after watching Eclipse with her friend, Rochelle. Rochelle mentioned that Ms. Meyer was a housewife with many children, so Sara decided that since she was back home while her husband was deployed, she would put pen to paper and see what happened. Wow. She started writing in 2009 and hasn't stopped since! This has led to her finding her publisher, 5 Prince Publishing, and her awesome Warrior Princess editor! Her debut novel, A Heart on Hold, was published in 2012 and quickly became a series. Books 2 and 3, A Heart Broken and A Heart at Home, were published in January 2013 and June 2013 respectively, with book 4, A Heart Forever Wild, forthcoming! Book 1, A Heart on Hold, made it to the top three finalists for the best of 2012 American Historical RONE award and became an Amazon bestseller! Book 2, A Heart Broken, appears to be following in the same path. On a different note, set to release in November is Sara's debut Amish romance novella, Rebekah's Quilt.
Sara writes for kids, too. She independently publishes a line of nonfiction children's books which includes The ABCs of Texas Plants, The ABCs of Oklahoma Plants, and The Big Bad Wolf Really Isn't so Big and Bad -- all of which have become bestsellers on Amazon in their respective categories. 5 Prince Kids also publishes some of Sara's fiction works. Chunky Sugars was published in January 2013 and Little Spoon released September 2013. Chunky Sugars just received a 5-star review as Reader's Favorite, as well! All of Sara's titles are available in both print and digital format, with audio books of each coming soon (if they're not already here!)
Author Links :
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads Amazon Author Page
Purchase Links :Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Tweet this blog post:
Robyn Echols Books features OLD AMARILLO: AMISH JOURNEYS #1 by @TheSaraBarnard http://bit.ly/1l3CtfI#WedWonders
January 6, 2016
Wednesday Wonders: CATE CORRALS A CATTLEMAN
Today's Wednesday Wonders features Cate Corrals a Cattleman by Linda Hubalek.
About the book : Cate Corrals a Cattleman , book 6 in the Brides with Grit Series is now available! Cate has helped her children find love with the right spouse, so now it was her turn.
Here's the story line.
A clean, sweet western romance, set in 1873. Widowed ranch woman Cate Wilerson’s four children are now all married and she’s enjoying being a grandma. But, she’s only in her forties, so she could be married again for many years. Cate’s ready to tie the knot again and she has already picked her groom.Cattleman Isaac Connely bought a ring for Cate almost thirty years ago, but Moses Wilerson, a friend to both of them, asked Cate to marry him first. After serving in the Civil War, Isaac followed the Wilersons to Kansas and builds a cattle empire with his inheritance. He respected Cate’s and Moses’ marriage, comforted her through the loss of her husband and remained a friend of the Wilerson family.Now he’s ready to propose—with the same ring—but someone from his past appears on his doorstep, dredging up a dark secret making him doubt his worth to be Cate’s husband.Can Cate let go of past hurts and help Isaac realize he is not to blame, so he will finally ask her to marry him?
You'll have to read Cate Corrals a Cattleman to find out what's in store for this middle-aged couple. Love can happen at any age!
Excerpt :
From Cate Corrals a Cattleman, © 2015 by Linda K. Hubalek
By the time Isaac rode back to the ranch and took care of his horse, the sun was sinking low in the west. He’d meant to be home a couple of hours ago, but it never seems to happen that way when you want it to.What would Cate say now when he was late for supper, too? Would there be a plate of food in the stove warmer, a cold sandwich on a plate on the table, or nothing?He was bone–tired and sweat–drenched from being out in the heat all day on the back of a horse, but he’d still prefer that to what Cate probably faced in the house today. And neither of them got any sleep last night. Still, they needed to find a quiet spot—maybe the chicken house, where at least those critters would be asleep—to talk about yesterday’s events. And the interrupted proposal was still hanging in the air. Would she still be for it, or glad they got interrupted? Heck, he wasn’t a young buck but a wise, mature man, so he knew he had to face the next “blast of heat”, so to speak.Isaac took off his hat before walking in through the back door, pausing to listen for voices. At least he didn’t hear heated arguments coming from the kitchen, nor noisy little kids. He toed off his boots on the boot jack and padded in his stocking feet down the back hall to the kitchen. No one was in there, but he spied a cloth covered plate set on the table. Isaac sighed, he was hungry and he was only left a cold plate of something. Well, better than nothing, he thought as he turned to the shelves to get a glass to fill with water from the bucket by the dry sink. He should have stopped at the basin on the back porch to wash his grimy face, forearms and hands first, but gosh darn it, he was hungry, tired, and this used to be his domain. He’d go back outside to the hand pump and wash after he got food in his stomach.Uh. The plate was still warm and had mashed potatoes, green beans and a fried chicken breast. How’d he get so lucky to get a decent meal at this late hour?“The children missed you at meals today,” Cate quietly said as she walked in from the dining room. She was barefoot, so he didn’t hear her as he filled his mouth with another forkful of green beans. He just nodded as he chewed his food.“How’s the herd doing in this late summer burst of heat, and the hands? Looks like you put in a full day’s work in the sun.” She pulled out a chair and sat across from him, putting her elbows on the table and leaning toward him.Isaac swallowed his beans. “The longhorns can take the heat, but I worry about their water source. Creek’s getting low. I hope the springs keep flowing or we’re in for trouble.”“You keep moving the herd a little each day. Will you end up having to take them down to the river for water?” Cate knew land, cattle and had spent many days in the saddle herself over the years.“Don’t know, just pray for rain in the time being.” Isaac scooped another fork of mashed potatoes into his mouth. Boy, the meal was good tonight, especially compared to the cold beans and jerky he ate at midday. He still wondered why his favorite meal was waiting for him tonight.“How’s Faye settling in?” Isaac kept his eyes on the plate, still embarrassed about her showing up.“Umm, it’ll take time. She’s used to being awake at night in a house full of customers, instead of being awake during the day with a house full of babies.”“How’s her baby? It’s awful thin.” He picked up the chicken breast and took a bite and chewed, waiting for Cate to continue.“Starved for food and attention. Poor thing sucked down a bottle of milk so fast, it came back up—after Faye had laid her in a basket of clean diapers.” Isaac cringed at that thought. Clean diapers were in constant demand in this house.“Faye decided to name the baby Violet Rose after the children bugged her for the baby’s name.”“That’s a nice name,” Isaac commented before taking another bite of chicken.“Faye named the baby for her favorite customer’s wife and child.”Isaac choked, then hit his chest to get his food back down. Now he looked over at Cate, who had a smirk on her face.“Yes, that’s really who she named the child after. Seems to care more about the baby now the poor thing has a name.”Isaac sat back in his chair. “Cate, I’m so sorry for all this, and how poorly I handled it last night. I should have stayed in the house and helped instead of leaving you to take care of everything.”“I’m sure Faye wouldn’t have minded you helping with her bath since she’s used to men, but I would have.”Dang,he was going to die from choking if she kept saying things like that. Isaac gave her a hard stare while trying to swallow.“Well, it’s true, so ‘it is, what it is’, Isaac. There’s going to be a lot of situations with her and Violet here, but Sara and Marcus will adjust, just as they are adjusting with all the other additions to their new family.” “Sounds like you didn’t get much sleep last night.” Isaac didn’t mention knowing she spent time crying on the porch.“Well, I had to deal with a crying daughter who wanted answers and consoling, crying grandchildren upset because the adults were upset, two new additions to the house and where to put them,” and I didn’t get the ring I was expecting.“So no, it wasn’t the best evening for me. I deserved shedding a few tears on the porch while you hung behind the back of the house.”Ooh, now Cate was speaking her mind. Isaac put his fork down, as he’d lost his appetite.
About the Author:
Linda Hubalek grew up on the Kansas prairie, always wanting to be a farmer like her parents and ancestors. After earning a college degree in Agriculture, marriage took Linda away from Kansas as her husband worked in engineering jobs in several states.
Meanwhile, Linda wrote about pioneer women that homesteaded in Kansas between 1854 to the early 1900s, especially her Swedish immigrant ancestors. Her historical fiction book series are Butter in the Well, Trail of Thread, Planting Dreams and the Kansas Quilter.
She also has a historical western romance series called Brides with Grit.
Linda and her husband finally returned back to Kansas, where they raised American buffalo (bison) for a dozen years.
Author Links:
Website | Amazon Author Page | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest
Purchase on Amazon HERE
Smashwords | iTunes | Barnes & Noble
About the book : Cate Corrals a Cattleman , book 6 in the Brides with Grit Series is now available! Cate has helped her children find love with the right spouse, so now it was her turn.
Here's the story line.
A clean, sweet western romance, set in 1873. Widowed ranch woman Cate Wilerson’s four children are now all married and she’s enjoying being a grandma. But, she’s only in her forties, so she could be married again for many years. Cate’s ready to tie the knot again and she has already picked her groom.Cattleman Isaac Connely bought a ring for Cate almost thirty years ago, but Moses Wilerson, a friend to both of them, asked Cate to marry him first. After serving in the Civil War, Isaac followed the Wilersons to Kansas and builds a cattle empire with his inheritance. He respected Cate’s and Moses’ marriage, comforted her through the loss of her husband and remained a friend of the Wilerson family.Now he’s ready to propose—with the same ring—but someone from his past appears on his doorstep, dredging up a dark secret making him doubt his worth to be Cate’s husband.Can Cate let go of past hurts and help Isaac realize he is not to blame, so he will finally ask her to marry him?
You'll have to read Cate Corrals a Cattleman to find out what's in store for this middle-aged couple. Love can happen at any age!
Excerpt :
From Cate Corrals a Cattleman, © 2015 by Linda K. Hubalek
By the time Isaac rode back to the ranch and took care of his horse, the sun was sinking low in the west. He’d meant to be home a couple of hours ago, but it never seems to happen that way when you want it to.What would Cate say now when he was late for supper, too? Would there be a plate of food in the stove warmer, a cold sandwich on a plate on the table, or nothing?He was bone–tired and sweat–drenched from being out in the heat all day on the back of a horse, but he’d still prefer that to what Cate probably faced in the house today. And neither of them got any sleep last night. Still, they needed to find a quiet spot—maybe the chicken house, where at least those critters would be asleep—to talk about yesterday’s events. And the interrupted proposal was still hanging in the air. Would she still be for it, or glad they got interrupted? Heck, he wasn’t a young buck but a wise, mature man, so he knew he had to face the next “blast of heat”, so to speak.Isaac took off his hat before walking in through the back door, pausing to listen for voices. At least he didn’t hear heated arguments coming from the kitchen, nor noisy little kids. He toed off his boots on the boot jack and padded in his stocking feet down the back hall to the kitchen. No one was in there, but he spied a cloth covered plate set on the table. Isaac sighed, he was hungry and he was only left a cold plate of something. Well, better than nothing, he thought as he turned to the shelves to get a glass to fill with water from the bucket by the dry sink. He should have stopped at the basin on the back porch to wash his grimy face, forearms and hands first, but gosh darn it, he was hungry, tired, and this used to be his domain. He’d go back outside to the hand pump and wash after he got food in his stomach.Uh. The plate was still warm and had mashed potatoes, green beans and a fried chicken breast. How’d he get so lucky to get a decent meal at this late hour?“The children missed you at meals today,” Cate quietly said as she walked in from the dining room. She was barefoot, so he didn’t hear her as he filled his mouth with another forkful of green beans. He just nodded as he chewed his food.“How’s the herd doing in this late summer burst of heat, and the hands? Looks like you put in a full day’s work in the sun.” She pulled out a chair and sat across from him, putting her elbows on the table and leaning toward him.Isaac swallowed his beans. “The longhorns can take the heat, but I worry about their water source. Creek’s getting low. I hope the springs keep flowing or we’re in for trouble.”“You keep moving the herd a little each day. Will you end up having to take them down to the river for water?” Cate knew land, cattle and had spent many days in the saddle herself over the years.“Don’t know, just pray for rain in the time being.” Isaac scooped another fork of mashed potatoes into his mouth. Boy, the meal was good tonight, especially compared to the cold beans and jerky he ate at midday. He still wondered why his favorite meal was waiting for him tonight.“How’s Faye settling in?” Isaac kept his eyes on the plate, still embarrassed about her showing up.“Umm, it’ll take time. She’s used to being awake at night in a house full of customers, instead of being awake during the day with a house full of babies.”“How’s her baby? It’s awful thin.” He picked up the chicken breast and took a bite and chewed, waiting for Cate to continue.“Starved for food and attention. Poor thing sucked down a bottle of milk so fast, it came back up—after Faye had laid her in a basket of clean diapers.” Isaac cringed at that thought. Clean diapers were in constant demand in this house.“Faye decided to name the baby Violet Rose after the children bugged her for the baby’s name.”“That’s a nice name,” Isaac commented before taking another bite of chicken.“Faye named the baby for her favorite customer’s wife and child.”Isaac choked, then hit his chest to get his food back down. Now he looked over at Cate, who had a smirk on her face.“Yes, that’s really who she named the child after. Seems to care more about the baby now the poor thing has a name.”Isaac sat back in his chair. “Cate, I’m so sorry for all this, and how poorly I handled it last night. I should have stayed in the house and helped instead of leaving you to take care of everything.”“I’m sure Faye wouldn’t have minded you helping with her bath since she’s used to men, but I would have.”Dang,he was going to die from choking if she kept saying things like that. Isaac gave her a hard stare while trying to swallow.“Well, it’s true, so ‘it is, what it is’, Isaac. There’s going to be a lot of situations with her and Violet here, but Sara and Marcus will adjust, just as they are adjusting with all the other additions to their new family.” “Sounds like you didn’t get much sleep last night.” Isaac didn’t mention knowing she spent time crying on the porch.“Well, I had to deal with a crying daughter who wanted answers and consoling, crying grandchildren upset because the adults were upset, two new additions to the house and where to put them,” and I didn’t get the ring I was expecting.“So no, it wasn’t the best evening for me. I deserved shedding a few tears on the porch while you hung behind the back of the house.”Ooh, now Cate was speaking her mind. Isaac put his fork down, as he’d lost his appetite.
About the Author:
Linda Hubalek grew up on the Kansas prairie, always wanting to be a farmer like her parents and ancestors. After earning a college degree in Agriculture, marriage took Linda away from Kansas as her husband worked in engineering jobs in several states.
Meanwhile, Linda wrote about pioneer women that homesteaded in Kansas between 1854 to the early 1900s, especially her Swedish immigrant ancestors. Her historical fiction book series are Butter in the Well, Trail of Thread, Planting Dreams and the Kansas Quilter.
She also has a historical western romance series called Brides with Grit.
Linda and her husband finally returned back to Kansas, where they raised American buffalo (bison) for a dozen years.
Author Links:
Website | Amazon Author Page | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest
Purchase on Amazon HERE
Smashwords | iTunes | Barnes & Noble
December 31, 2015
FOCUS: My Goal for 2016
Now Christmas is past, the themes being expounded tend to fall into two categories:1. The best of last year (choose your category--they are myriad)
2. Resolutions for the coming year.
When it comes to books, there are too many I have read and enjoyed to narrow them down to a recommendation list.
But, when it comes to resolutions regarding my writing, I have been letting that one tumble around in my conscious and subconscious for months. When one of my Facebook friends started a string asking us to choose one word for 2016, I looked over other suggestions and liked them all. But my choice was FOCUS.
FOCUS - Part One
For starters, like so many people I know, life is full of distractions.
There are the mundane chores in life. Do you really think I want to spend my days grocery shopping, preparing meals, laundry, dishes, housecleaning--you know what I mean. Life is full of people who believe that you really want to fulfill their wish list (or it needs to be done list). After all, what are family and friends for? It's not like I still have a job where I validate my existence by bringing in a biweekly paycheck or I have a boss that will fire me if I don't show up to work when scheduled.Then there are the activities in which I voluntarily involved myself, only to find that once I accepted a volunteer position--along with the extra projects and board meetings--I really shot myself in the foot as far as being the owner of my own schedule.
When I started writing, it was much easier. While working around my schedule of weekly obligations, I blocked several hours per day on several days per week on my cell phone's calendar. I refused to schedule anything during those times. Then my obligations changed. On top of everything I was doing, I started to spend more time on promoting my published books. That included writing monthly posts for blogs offering spots for other authors to share their books on my blogs--sort of a mutual cross-promotion effort. I also started administering a group blog under my pen name, Zina Abbott. At the time I decided to do this, I had no idea how much time I would lose to communicating with authors and organizing in order to keep everything straight. Now those times set aside for me to actually write are more of a wish than a scheduled event.
I'm back to square one. If I really want to WRITE, I need to FOCUS. Will that mean refusing some of those secretary, treasurer, newsletter editor jobs and their accompanying board meetings? Will that mean paying closer attention to my calendar so when the secretaries at my (and my husband's) doctors' offices want to schedule a time, I be more assertive about which days and times I'm available? Does that mean I need to become even more adept at saying NO? Probably YES to all of the above.FOCUS - Part Two
I have not joined every professional organization for writers available. I notice that several authors spend a lot of time going to conventions, conferences and retreats. I did the convention circuit when I was in the Rural Letter Carriers' union, so I have a lot of that out of my system.
But, one professional organization I am thrilled I joined is Women Writing the West. I attended their convention last fall. I not only touched base with a lot of writers that made me feel right at home, they widened my perspective. Sometimes, in order to know where you need to focus, you must first broaden your perspective.
Once I set aside the legal/technical writing I did as a union steward putting together grievance files, I have been a fiction writer. (Yes, some managers thought I wrote fiction, but I truly did try to be as accurate as possible without throwing my grievant to the wolves.) As much as I enjoy romance elements in my writing, I prefer women's literature, particularly in a historical setting. But--face it--basic genre romance with its "happily ever after" endings sells. Much of my writing, particularly under my pen name, Zina Abbott, is historical romance usually set in the West.
Some of the perspectives I gained at the WWW conference were these:
Fiction sells, but once the book had been published over six months, many readers consider it "old" and often opt for a newer release. Online sales can diminish quickly. In a book store, if the books don't sell within a few months, in most cases, they get shipped back to the publisherTo have slow but consistent sales, consider publishing with a company that focuses on marketing the print version of books as opposed digital sales. If a writer finds the right topic for the right niche market, their print book will not as quickly become "outdated" and end up in the bottomless pit of remainder books where authors earn nothing for their work. Quite often that means writing non-fiction books.Once I am finished marketing my two self-published books, it is time for me to focus on how much time I want to spend on continuing my writing for my present publisher and if I also want to write something that can be sold to a different market.
Then there is this insight I received especially during the past three months. Love it or hate it (and I hate it), if I am going to write and self-publish historical western fiction, do so for the Kindle Unlimited (KU) market. The "why" of it is a whole other blog post. In my opinion, KU may be great for readers, but it has killed the fiction market when it comes to the average writer without a huge nationwide following being able to make decent money on longer, well thought out and heavily researched novels containing multiple subplots and depth. To make money on KU, it is better to stick to the shorter, formulaic pieces that can be whipped out every one to three months.
But, I enjoy research. I enjoy giving historically correct information in my stories. I enjoy writing multifaceted novels with twists that give the readers something to think about and something to learn. I enjoy depth.So, if I am going to accomplish MY writing goals and still make it worth my time financially, I need to FOCUS on exactly what I want to write.
Before I do that, I need to continue to BROADEN MY PERSPECTIVE of what options are out there and what ones appeal to me.
Like everything else involved with my writing, that means I need to finish up my current writing project and then buckle down and do the RESEARCH on what my options are. General goals are nice, but details are what make it happen.
After I get my ideas and options together, then I need to plan the work so I can work the plan. That's called getting ORGANIZED.
Once I get it all organized, then I have come back to full circle to FOCUS. Don't get distracted. Don't let myself get waylaid. Don't give up.
FOCUS!
Connect with me:Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | PinterestGoodreads | Amazon Author Page
Tweet this blog post:
Sometimes you must first broaden your perspective before you narrow your FOCUS http://bit.ly/1RScx4V #RobynEcholsBooks @robyn_echols @ZinaAbbott
December 30, 2015
Wednesday Wonders: ANKLE HIGH AND KNEE DEEP
Today's Wednesday Wonders features Gail Jenner's Ankle High and Knee Deep: Women Reflect on Western Rural Life .
About the Book :
Colicky horses, trucks high-centered in pastures, late nights spent in barns birthing calves--the trials and tribulations of farm and ranch life are as central to its experience as amber waves of grain and Sunday dinners at the ranch house. Ankle High and Knee Deep collects together essays about lessons learned by ranch women, cowgirls, and farmers about what they’ve learned while standing in or stepping out of “mud, manure, and other offal” in their day to day lives on the land. This collection of entertaining and inspirational voices offers unique perspectives on relationships, loss, love, marriage, and parenting and other universal issues. These are contemporary accounts of women struggling to keep a lifestyle intact, recollections of childhoods spent in open spaces, and tales of overcoming obstacles--inspirational reading for city dwellers and country folk, alike. You may purchase Ankle High and Knee Deep from Amazon by clicking HERE .
It is available on Barnes & Noble by clicking HERE .
INTRODUCTION :
“Farming seems easy when your plow is a pencil and you are a thousand miles from the corn field.” ~ Dwight Eisenhower
Life is all about the learning, and the “family farm” is a great schoolhouse. Ankle High and Knee Deep represents what 40+ rural/farm women have learned while standing in or stepping out of mud, manure, and other “offal.” It is a collection of entertaining and inspirational essays that offers a unique perspective on love, marriage, parenting, relationships, loss, and other universal issues. These women’s connection to the land and to the people and animals in their lives is documented here.
Concepts that the general public has now adopted, words like sustainability and renewable/recyclable, come to us directly from the life of a farmer or rancher. Working within a landscape that can change with the seasons or alongside the forces of nature that demand commitment and sacrifice develops deep character; interestingly, the word “character” comes from the Greek word meaning “to chisel.” That describes perfectly what living and working in an often harsh physical environment does to the human soul. Several of the best lessons I’ve learned have come from forty-two plus years spent onour fifth-generation ranch:
*Sometimes the mud and muck gets ankle deep, but it can always be washed off. *You’ve got to plant the seeds before there’s anything worth harvesting. *Waiting is time well spent. After winter comes spring, and after spring rains comes the summer harvest. *Never think anything is not worth saving; sometimes it’s just the odd piece of baling wire that keeps things from falling apart. *Don’t be in a hurry; that’s when you run through fences or get stuck in ditches. *Always watch out for the soft places: Anything that looks that good has got to be dangerous. *Don’t ignore the rotten apples. They can destroy the entire barrelful if overlooked. *Don’t be afraid of hard work and sweat. There’s nothing finer than a shower or warm fire after a day well spent. *Love your job. It’s what you do, all day, every day. *Just because a skunk is cute doesn’t mean he won’t stink! *Don’t look back: that’s when you find yourself belly up in a low spot. *Don’t hold onto trouble; you’ve got to spread the manure around in order to make it effective fertilizer. *Do things right the first time so you don’t have to do them twice. *Be willing to invest – not only money – but sweat and time. In the end you’ll have something worth keeping. *Out of the garbage heap grow the seeds you ignored. *Good fences make good neighbors; know what people’s boundaries are and learn to respect them. *To have a good garden, you’ve got to live in it; weeds take over quickly. *Weaning time can’t be ignored; there’s a right time to let go. *Most of the time there’s no choice: Success requires frequent sacrifice and persistence. Though not a faith-based book, this collection of essays does underscore traditional values while providing an ofttimes humorous look at life spent at the wrong end of a tractor, cow, or horse. Many reflect the lessons learned from a life centered around work, work, and more work. Trivial moments become significant moments of transition – revealing that maybe the destination isn’t as important as the road that leads there.
Maybe that’s why farmers eventually become philosophers.
About Gail Fiorini-Jenner :
Gail Jenner is an author and editor who has completed two novels and five regional histories:ACROSS THE SWEET GRASS HILLS , WINNER 2002 WILLA Literary Award from Women Writing the West
WESTERN SISKIYOU COUNTY: Gold & Dreams , Arcadia Publishing (2002/2005)
IMAGES OF THE STATE OF JEFFERSON , Arcadia Publishing (2006)
THE STATE OF JEFFERSON: Then & Now , Arcadia Publishing (2008)
BLACK BART: THE POET BANDIT , Infinity Publishing HISTORIC INNS & EATERIES IN THE STATE OF JEFFERSON , including a chapter of recipes, from Old American Publishing POSTCARDS FROM THE STATE OF JEFFERSON , Arcadia Publishing (2013)
She also edited/contributed to the 2014 anthology, ANKLE HIGH & KNEE DEEP, TwoDot/Globe Pequot, a collection of memoir/reflections by 40+ rural/ranch women, from all over the West. In its first week on amazon.com, it reached #3 in the Top List of books on Rural/Country Living.
Enjoy and follow Gail's Amazon Author Page to see all the books she has written by clicking HERE.
FOR MORE: www.gailjenner.com
Jenner Family Beef: www.jennerfamilybeef.com
Tweet this blog Post:
40+ rural women talk about farm life in ANKLE HIGH & KNEE DEEP edited by Gail Jenner http://bit.ly/1QV6gDQ #WedWonders
December 23, 2015
Wednesday Wonders: ENEMIES
Today's Wednesday Wonders features Richard Whitten Barnes and his novel,
Enemies.
About the Book :
It is November 11, 1968, fifty years to the day since the armistice of the Great War. The seventy year old German diplomat Jurgen Stern is in Ottawa, Canada on a special assignment. He rescues a portfolio mistakenly left behind in his hotel lobby by a man near his own age. Inside are drawings that are obviously from a soldier’s perspective of WW1. One of the sketches is so intriguing he is compelled to find this man and learn the truth about it.
The story reverts back to 1916 when Brian MacLennan, a farm boy from northern Ontario joins the Canadian Expeditionary Force. At the same time, young Jurgen Stern has been conscripted by the Imperial German Army. Their experiences in that brutal war are followed until they become entangled in a way that will take fifty years to unravel. The two men face the consequences of those events a half century in the past and must put them right.
British Remembrance Poppy - WWI
Book TrailerClick HERE
Excerpt:
Once in town, they both knew there was one more good-bye. Owen stopped the sleigh a few doors down from John Richards’ store and post office. When Brian hesitated, Owen practically shoved his older brother off onto a snowbank. Brian trudged to the door of the neat frame house which was opened before he could knock. “Get in here, Brian MacLennan, before I catch a death of cold!” a cheery middle-aged woman admonished. She shut the door behind him as he stamped the snow from his boots. “Sarah’s just…well, fixing her hair. She saw your sleigh from the window.” “Thank you, Mrs. White,” he mumbled, embarrassed but pleased at her suggesting his visit might be special to Sarah. She retreated into the house. It was a few minutes before he heard “Hello, Brian,” in a soft but confident voice. Brian had only recently built enough nerve to approach Sarah White. To him, she was the essence of elegance. Every boy in the township vied for her attention. She was younger than he by two years, and at nineteen, it was a miracle she was still unattached. He had displayed some of his drawings at a crafts fair at the town hall last autumn, and she had been there. She’d admired his ability, and they talked about his wanting to go to school somewhere instead of farming. It soon became clear this girl was not only beautiful, she was knowledgeable in literature and art. He was smitten. He sketched her from memory and presented it to her one afternoon, fearing she’d be offended, but she wasn’t. “I heard at the post office about your signing up,” she said. “Yeah. I…can’t stay. I’m meeting the train.” He couldn’t think. He wanted to hold her. “I’ll miss our talks,” she said. “Oh! I mean, yes?” She smiled, and pulled something from the folds of her frock, handing it to him. Brian stared, unbelieving, at the photograph mounted on stiff pasteboard. It was professionally taken, capturing the every detail of what made her so special. He stood there, speechless. “Perhaps you’ll think of me from time to time,” she said.
“Sarah!” he stared at the picture, then at her. “I will,” he croaked, and carefully slipped the photo into his breast pocket. "Well, then…” He motioned to the door and the waiting sleigh. She reached to place a palm on his cheek. “Be safe, Brian,” were her last words.
Interview with Richard Whitten Barnes :
1. Robyn Echols: What prompted you to write ENEMIES?
Richard W. Barnes: I was looking for something topical. It occurred to me that the 100thanniversary of the WW1 armistice is upon us. My wife and I both have fathers who served in that conflict (yes, we’re that old!). Her father fought for the Germans, and after emigrating to the USA met a Canadian who it turns out fought against him in some of the same battles.
If that isn’t fodder for a story, I don’t know what is.
2. Robyn Echols: Do you usually write historical war novels? If not, what other genres of books have you written?
Richard W. Barnes: ENEMIES is my fourth historical novel. I also have written four mystery novels. Two of the historical novels deal with events in WW2, while the third has the war of 1812 as a background.
Honestly, I don’t have a preference for either genre. For me, there isn’t much difference in the two. Both require a lot of research to make them credible, and both require an intriguing plot to make them readable.
3. Robyn Echols: Are there any human stories that either prompted you to write this novel, or that impressed you in the process of your research?
Richard W. Barnes: My wife’s story of her father was a big influence in choosing the plot for ENEMIES. As to stories from my research, there were several. Two which come to mind are:
Ernst Jünger’s book, STORM OF STEEL an autobiographical account of his time as a German officer. His incredible survival in spite of often bad leadership of the German high command is inspiring.
On the other side, the story of Canada’s commander, Arthur Currie is really interesting. This flawed, complex man was instrumental, to a large extent, in turning around the war in the Allies favor.
Anyone interested in WW1 should acquaint themselves with these two stories.
4. Robyn Echols: How did writing or researching for this novel touch you or change or perceptions of this war?
Richard W. Barnes: I always knew the casualties were horrific over the four years of WW1, but my delving into the details of individual battles (thousands killed on both sides in a single engagement, ill-conceived assaults resulting in needless casualties, etc.) my eyes were opened.
5. Robyn Echols: Tell us about the cover.
Poppies Field in Flanders - WWI battleground
Richard W. Barnes: The Canadian man on the cover of ENEMIES is the uncle of a lady I know in Ontario who was in the CEF (Canadian Expeditionary Forces). The young German boy is my wife’s father. We were both the youngest children of parents who had us at a relatively advanced age, thus our first-generation connection with WW1. My dad was in the Rainbow Division of the American Expeditionary Forces.
6. What are your future writing goals?
Richard W. Barnes: Oh dear! You had to ask.
I guess I’m leaning toward another mystery involving my character Andy Blake, a female cop who resides in the Northern Ontario Island of St. Joseph. I have, like Phillip Craig and Cynthia Riggs, who wrote mysteries set in the island of Martha’s Vineyard, become attached to this person as if she were real.
The more important question is: what nasty predicament can I get her into now?
About the Author:
Richard Whitten Barnes is a native Chicagoan, graduating as a chemist from Michigan State University. He is now retired from a career in international chemical sales and marketing, which has taken him all over the world. Barnes is a veteran of the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division and an avid sailor. He lives in Lake Wylie, S.C., but spends summers with his wife Marg and dog Sparty at their cottage on St. Joseph Island, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Huron.
Author Links:
Website | Blog: Throwing Stones | Facebook | Goodreads Amazon link to all books
Enemies Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Tweet this blog post:
The Great War ends & 50 years later former ENEMIES meet http://bit.ly/1lEd2Te #WedWonders #RobynEcholsBooks #Enemies
About the Book :
It is November 11, 1968, fifty years to the day since the armistice of the Great War. The seventy year old German diplomat Jurgen Stern is in Ottawa, Canada on a special assignment. He rescues a portfolio mistakenly left behind in his hotel lobby by a man near his own age. Inside are drawings that are obviously from a soldier’s perspective of WW1. One of the sketches is so intriguing he is compelled to find this man and learn the truth about it. The story reverts back to 1916 when Brian MacLennan, a farm boy from northern Ontario joins the Canadian Expeditionary Force. At the same time, young Jurgen Stern has been conscripted by the Imperial German Army. Their experiences in that brutal war are followed until they become entangled in a way that will take fifty years to unravel. The two men face the consequences of those events a half century in the past and must put them right.
British Remembrance Poppy - WWIBook TrailerClick HERE
Excerpt:
Once in town, they both knew there was one more good-bye. Owen stopped the sleigh a few doors down from John Richards’ store and post office. When Brian hesitated, Owen practically shoved his older brother off onto a snowbank. Brian trudged to the door of the neat frame house which was opened before he could knock. “Get in here, Brian MacLennan, before I catch a death of cold!” a cheery middle-aged woman admonished. She shut the door behind him as he stamped the snow from his boots. “Sarah’s just…well, fixing her hair. She saw your sleigh from the window.” “Thank you, Mrs. White,” he mumbled, embarrassed but pleased at her suggesting his visit might be special to Sarah. She retreated into the house. It was a few minutes before he heard “Hello, Brian,” in a soft but confident voice. Brian had only recently built enough nerve to approach Sarah White. To him, she was the essence of elegance. Every boy in the township vied for her attention. She was younger than he by two years, and at nineteen, it was a miracle she was still unattached. He had displayed some of his drawings at a crafts fair at the town hall last autumn, and she had been there. She’d admired his ability, and they talked about his wanting to go to school somewhere instead of farming. It soon became clear this girl was not only beautiful, she was knowledgeable in literature and art. He was smitten. He sketched her from memory and presented it to her one afternoon, fearing she’d be offended, but she wasn’t. “I heard at the post office about your signing up,” she said. “Yeah. I…can’t stay. I’m meeting the train.” He couldn’t think. He wanted to hold her. “I’ll miss our talks,” she said. “Oh! I mean, yes?” She smiled, and pulled something from the folds of her frock, handing it to him. Brian stared, unbelieving, at the photograph mounted on stiff pasteboard. It was professionally taken, capturing the every detail of what made her so special. He stood there, speechless. “Perhaps you’ll think of me from time to time,” she said.
“Sarah!” he stared at the picture, then at her. “I will,” he croaked, and carefully slipped the photo into his breast pocket. "Well, then…” He motioned to the door and the waiting sleigh. She reached to place a palm on his cheek. “Be safe, Brian,” were her last words.Interview with Richard Whitten Barnes :
1. Robyn Echols: What prompted you to write ENEMIES?
Richard W. Barnes: I was looking for something topical. It occurred to me that the 100thanniversary of the WW1 armistice is upon us. My wife and I both have fathers who served in that conflict (yes, we’re that old!). Her father fought for the Germans, and after emigrating to the USA met a Canadian who it turns out fought against him in some of the same battles.
If that isn’t fodder for a story, I don’t know what is.
2. Robyn Echols: Do you usually write historical war novels? If not, what other genres of books have you written?
Richard W. Barnes: ENEMIES is my fourth historical novel. I also have written four mystery novels. Two of the historical novels deal with events in WW2, while the third has the war of 1812 as a background.
Honestly, I don’t have a preference for either genre. For me, there isn’t much difference in the two. Both require a lot of research to make them credible, and both require an intriguing plot to make them readable.
3. Robyn Echols: Are there any human stories that either prompted you to write this novel, or that impressed you in the process of your research?
Richard W. Barnes: My wife’s story of her father was a big influence in choosing the plot for ENEMIES. As to stories from my research, there were several. Two which come to mind are:
Ernst Jünger’s book, STORM OF STEEL an autobiographical account of his time as a German officer. His incredible survival in spite of often bad leadership of the German high command is inspiring.
On the other side, the story of Canada’s commander, Arthur Currie is really interesting. This flawed, complex man was instrumental, to a large extent, in turning around the war in the Allies favor.
Anyone interested in WW1 should acquaint themselves with these two stories.
4. Robyn Echols: How did writing or researching for this novel touch you or change or perceptions of this war?
Richard W. Barnes: I always knew the casualties were horrific over the four years of WW1, but my delving into the details of individual battles (thousands killed on both sides in a single engagement, ill-conceived assaults resulting in needless casualties, etc.) my eyes were opened.
5. Robyn Echols: Tell us about the cover.
Poppies Field in Flanders - WWI battlegroundRichard W. Barnes: The Canadian man on the cover of ENEMIES is the uncle of a lady I know in Ontario who was in the CEF (Canadian Expeditionary Forces). The young German boy is my wife’s father. We were both the youngest children of parents who had us at a relatively advanced age, thus our first-generation connection with WW1. My dad was in the Rainbow Division of the American Expeditionary Forces.
6. What are your future writing goals?
Richard W. Barnes: Oh dear! You had to ask.
I guess I’m leaning toward another mystery involving my character Andy Blake, a female cop who resides in the Northern Ontario Island of St. Joseph. I have, like Phillip Craig and Cynthia Riggs, who wrote mysteries set in the island of Martha’s Vineyard, become attached to this person as if she were real.
The more important question is: what nasty predicament can I get her into now?
About the Author:
Richard Whitten Barnes is a native Chicagoan, graduating as a chemist from Michigan State University. He is now retired from a career in international chemical sales and marketing, which has taken him all over the world. Barnes is a veteran of the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division and an avid sailor. He lives in Lake Wylie, S.C., but spends summers with his wife Marg and dog Sparty at their cottage on St. Joseph Island, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Huron.Author Links:
Website | Blog: Throwing Stones | Facebook | Goodreads Amazon link to all books
Enemies Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Tweet this blog post:
The Great War ends & 50 years later former ENEMIES meet http://bit.ly/1lEd2Te #WedWonders #RobynEcholsBooks #Enemies
December 16, 2015
Wednesday Wonders: FAMILIAR STRANGER IN CLEAR SPRINGS
Today's Wednesday Wonders features Kathryn Albright and her historical Western romance,
Familiar Strangers in Clear Springs.
About the Book :
Back in the officer's arms…
Four years ago, Tom Barrington shared a connection with Elizabeth Morley that was like nothing he had ever experienced. But as a solitary soldier, he knew marriage was out of the question.
So when he strolls back into her life, Elizabeth can't believe it. He once broke her heart, and now he's back—more irresistible than ever! And when the dangers of Tom's lifestyle catch up with him, the question remains: can he be the safe harbor she craves?
Buy Links : [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error]
From Kathryn Albright :
My newest release, Familiar Stranger in Clear Springs, is a sweet, clean romance that takes place in early San Diego. The inspiration came from research when I learned of the gold runs that would take place from Julian City in the back country to the bank in New San Diego. I also had a character—Elizabeth—who had become quite “real” to me and I knew I wanted to tell her story. Trouble was—she lived in La Playa on the water. How in the world was I going to get her from her comfortable mercantile on the harbor to the gold town of Julian? (You’ll have to read it to find out.) Tom Barrington is a special agent whose last government assignment nearly killed him—and did kill his partner. He’s not sure he has the strength of will or body to do his job anymore—a job he used to feel so passionate about.The day he strides back into Elizabeth’s life and demands to know about her marriage is the day Elizabeth realizes she never forgave—or forgot—him. And when Elizabeth is caught in the middle of his next dangerous assignment, Tom must confront the enemy who would separate them forever. Paperback release : Available Now! Ebookrelease : January 1, 2016
Excerpt ~ First meeting Elizabeth moved to the stove and filled the kettle with water. Stuffing kindling and old brown wrapping paper into the stove, she struck a match to it. “Just to take the chill off.” Oh, my. She gave herself a mental shake. Here she was talking to her cat. Again. Bells tinkled as the front door opened. “We’re closed for the day,” she called out absently without looking up. A body should know one didn’t do commerce so late in the day. Who would be wanting something at this hour?“Ma’am?”Odd how a voice could stay in a person’s memory forever. The deep tone sent tremors to the ends of her toes. She nearly dropped the kettle. As it was her hand shook violently. A vision flashed through her memory of the stranger she’d seen riding through town earlier. Now she could put a name to that form. Tom. Tom Barrington. She stood frozen to the spot, unable to move for a moment. Then she glanced up.Despite the thick dark mustache and scruffy beard hiding most of his face, she recognized him. It was his eyes. The blueness that had been so striking all those years ago was still there. His shoulders were broader than she remembered, and his frame taller, leaner, as though he’d lived hard without a lot of the finer comforts. That barely registered. She’d given up on ever seeing him again and now here he was standing before her. She could scarcely remember to breathe.He stood in the doorway, black Stetson in hand, waiting for permission to enter the store farther. So clearly did the image come to her of the last day she had seen him standing there in his soldier blues that she drew in a shaky breath and set down the kettle. He wasn’t wearing a corporal’s uniform now, but a dark gray leather duster. His clothes had a layer of grit on them at least a half-inch thick. The wind off the ocean had tousled his dark brown, nearly black hair until it was completely lacking its parting on the side—or perhaps he no longer kept it as he once had when he was in the military. He looked surprised to see her—perhaps even shocked.“Elizabeth?”How many times had she hoped he’d walk back through that door over the past four years? One hundred? Two hundred? She’d imagined all sorts of scenarios. He’d rush in and sweep her off her feet. She’d run to him and throw her arms around him. Always, always, the dreams had ended in a deep kiss. Of course, that had been when she’d thought he’d return for her upon receiving her letter. That hope…that dream…had died years ago. And, unlike Lazarus, it would not be revived. Four years was too long to wait for anyone.Oddly, the thought flashed through her mind that she was glad she hadn’t yet changed from her day dress as she so often did once she shut up the store for the night. Usually she anticipated the removal of her corset at the end of a long day much as she imagined a horse reveled in the loss of his cinch and saddle. For now, the laced binding under her dark plum-colored skirt and bodice held her upright and firm. Perhaps she had enough layers on to feel sufficiently armored against his charm now.After all, he was the one who had left her. Without word, without a care for what she’d thought they meant to each other, without asking her to wait for him or taking her with him. He’d been a scoundrel…and she hated him for it.She swallowed. “Mr. Barrington.” The sound of his name came firm and cool. “I assume it is…‘Mr.’ now by the way you are clothed. Not ‘Corporal.’ Not ‘Captain.’”“‘Mr.’ is fine.” He ducked his head under the door frame and stepped farther into the store. The door swung shut behind him with a solid whump. He didn’t even jump at the sound. In fact, he appeared a bit dazed as he looked at her, almost as though he were seeing a ghost. “What are you doing here?”
Familiar Stranger in Clear Springs
© 2016 Kathryn Albright For more please go to my website: http://kathrynalbright.com/about-the-books/familiar-stranger-in-clear-springs/
About the Author :
Golden Heart finalist and recipient of the HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, author Kathryn Albright writes American-set historical romance that celebrates courage and hope and love against all odds with a dash of adventure. Her stories have been described as being tender and emotionally gripping against a backdrop of authenticity.
Visit the Author :
www.kathrynalbright.com | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads
Tweet this blog post :
Tom Barrington strolls back into her life & Elizabeth can't believe it http://bit.ly/1QlqzMa @KathrynAlbright #RobynEcholsBooks #WedWonders
Familiar Strangers in Clear Springs.
About the Book :
Back in the officer's arms…
Four years ago, Tom Barrington shared a connection with Elizabeth Morley that was like nothing he had ever experienced. But as a solitary soldier, he knew marriage was out of the question. So when he strolls back into her life, Elizabeth can't believe it. He once broke her heart, and now he's back—more irresistible than ever! And when the dangers of Tom's lifestyle catch up with him, the question remains: can he be the safe harbor she craves?
Buy Links : [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error]
From Kathryn Albright :
My newest release, Familiar Stranger in Clear Springs, is a sweet, clean romance that takes place in early San Diego. The inspiration came from research when I learned of the gold runs that would take place from Julian City in the back country to the bank in New San Diego. I also had a character—Elizabeth—who had become quite “real” to me and I knew I wanted to tell her story. Trouble was—she lived in La Playa on the water. How in the world was I going to get her from her comfortable mercantile on the harbor to the gold town of Julian? (You’ll have to read it to find out.) Tom Barrington is a special agent whose last government assignment nearly killed him—and did kill his partner. He’s not sure he has the strength of will or body to do his job anymore—a job he used to feel so passionate about.The day he strides back into Elizabeth’s life and demands to know about her marriage is the day Elizabeth realizes she never forgave—or forgot—him. And when Elizabeth is caught in the middle of his next dangerous assignment, Tom must confront the enemy who would separate them forever. Paperback release : Available Now! Ebookrelease : January 1, 2016
Excerpt ~ First meeting Elizabeth moved to the stove and filled the kettle with water. Stuffing kindling and old brown wrapping paper into the stove, she struck a match to it. “Just to take the chill off.” Oh, my. She gave herself a mental shake. Here she was talking to her cat. Again. Bells tinkled as the front door opened. “We’re closed for the day,” she called out absently without looking up. A body should know one didn’t do commerce so late in the day. Who would be wanting something at this hour?“Ma’am?”Odd how a voice could stay in a person’s memory forever. The deep tone sent tremors to the ends of her toes. She nearly dropped the kettle. As it was her hand shook violently. A vision flashed through her memory of the stranger she’d seen riding through town earlier. Now she could put a name to that form. Tom. Tom Barrington. She stood frozen to the spot, unable to move for a moment. Then she glanced up.Despite the thick dark mustache and scruffy beard hiding most of his face, she recognized him. It was his eyes. The blueness that had been so striking all those years ago was still there. His shoulders were broader than she remembered, and his frame taller, leaner, as though he’d lived hard without a lot of the finer comforts. That barely registered. She’d given up on ever seeing him again and now here he was standing before her. She could scarcely remember to breathe.He stood in the doorway, black Stetson in hand, waiting for permission to enter the store farther. So clearly did the image come to her of the last day she had seen him standing there in his soldier blues that she drew in a shaky breath and set down the kettle. He wasn’t wearing a corporal’s uniform now, but a dark gray leather duster. His clothes had a layer of grit on them at least a half-inch thick. The wind off the ocean had tousled his dark brown, nearly black hair until it was completely lacking its parting on the side—or perhaps he no longer kept it as he once had when he was in the military. He looked surprised to see her—perhaps even shocked.“Elizabeth?”How many times had she hoped he’d walk back through that door over the past four years? One hundred? Two hundred? She’d imagined all sorts of scenarios. He’d rush in and sweep her off her feet. She’d run to him and throw her arms around him. Always, always, the dreams had ended in a deep kiss. Of course, that had been when she’d thought he’d return for her upon receiving her letter. That hope…that dream…had died years ago. And, unlike Lazarus, it would not be revived. Four years was too long to wait for anyone.Oddly, the thought flashed through her mind that she was glad she hadn’t yet changed from her day dress as she so often did once she shut up the store for the night. Usually she anticipated the removal of her corset at the end of a long day much as she imagined a horse reveled in the loss of his cinch and saddle. For now, the laced binding under her dark plum-colored skirt and bodice held her upright and firm. Perhaps she had enough layers on to feel sufficiently armored against his charm now.After all, he was the one who had left her. Without word, without a care for what she’d thought they meant to each other, without asking her to wait for him or taking her with him. He’d been a scoundrel…and she hated him for it.She swallowed. “Mr. Barrington.” The sound of his name came firm and cool. “I assume it is…‘Mr.’ now by the way you are clothed. Not ‘Corporal.’ Not ‘Captain.’”“‘Mr.’ is fine.” He ducked his head under the door frame and stepped farther into the store. The door swung shut behind him with a solid whump. He didn’t even jump at the sound. In fact, he appeared a bit dazed as he looked at her, almost as though he were seeing a ghost. “What are you doing here?”
Familiar Stranger in Clear Springs
© 2016 Kathryn Albright For more please go to my website: http://kathrynalbright.com/about-the-books/familiar-stranger-in-clear-springs/
About the Author :
Golden Heart finalist and recipient of the HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, author Kathryn Albright writes American-set historical romance that celebrates courage and hope and love against all odds with a dash of adventure. Her stories have been described as being tender and emotionally gripping against a backdrop of authenticity.
Visit the Author :
www.kathrynalbright.com | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads
Tweet this blog post :
Tom Barrington strolls back into her life & Elizabeth can't believe it http://bit.ly/1QlqzMa @KathrynAlbright #RobynEcholsBooks #WedWonders
December 9, 2015
Wednesday Wonders: ONCE UPON A LIFETIME
Today’s Wednesday Wonders features Jennifer Kitchens and her novel, Once Upon a Lifetime.
About the book:
Amy stared at the portrait dancing in front of her.
She reached out to grab hold of it, steadying it. Or at least making it shake in tune with the rest of her body. The image could have almost been a mirror. But more disturbing was the fact that it looked like another picture she had.
A photo. The only image she had ever had of her mother not faded by time and memory.
Taken by a helpful nurse at the hospital just after Amy was born, she recognized the same features as the ones she
It was her mother. Amelia Price.
And she was wanted for murder.
As far as Amy Price knew, she was just a normal girl from Los Angeles. An orphan, left alone after the death of her mother years ago. Little did she know the truth of her mother's past. Nor did she know that she would soon come face to face with it. Sent back in time to the past her mother escaped, Amy must either face what her mother couldn't, or find a way back home. Though the handsome man intent on seeing justice met isn't helping any.
Book Excerpt:
“Patrick O’Flannigan’s me name.”Focusing her gaze back on the small man before her, Amelia studied him and his strange appearance. Her grandmother had told her of the wee folk that once lived in her homeland of Ireland. Warned her never to trust them. The older woman always whispered this seriously, a hint in her eyes of a story from before she had come to England. But Amelia never knew more. Could this little man be one of them she had been warned against? But what was he doing in England? “You seem to be a long way from home.”The little man’s eyes sparkled and she knew she had guessed right. “As are you, wee lass. It seems you’ve got yourself into a spot of trouble now.”Cold dread spilled over her. Did he know? Did he know what had happened in the library? Could she trust him to keep her secret? To help her out of this mess? The clattering of horse hooves nearby forced her to make a quick decision. Choosing to ignore her grandmother’s warnings, she forged on before she could change her mind. “Can you help me? I have to leave here. D-do you know of somewhere I can go?”A crooked smile appeared on the wizened face, revealing stubby yellow teeth. He crossed his short arms in front of him and looked thoughtful for a moment. “How far do ye want to go?”“Far enough that no one will find me. Where no one will know me,” she whispered. Another image of Charles’s lifeless face skipped across her mind. “I can’t…I mean, I have no need to come back.”
You may purchase Once Upon a Lifetime by clicking HERE.
About the Author:
Jennifer Kitchens is a life-long lover of romance novels. She started reading Regency romances as a teenager and hasn't stopped since. She is the founder and sole reviewer for Clean Romance Reviews. When she isn't writing and reading, she is raising her young children and dating her husband.
Author Links:
Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
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