Samantha March's Blog, page 19
October 31, 2012
Interview and Excerpt: The Saint's Devilish Deal by Kristina Knight
Thanks to Kristina Knight for stopping by with a Q&A and excerpt from The Saint's Devilish Deal. Please visit her tour page on CLP Blog Tours for more information!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you? – From an early age, although I didn't know what 'being a writer' meant at that point. I just liked to write my own stories and draw really, really terrible pictures to go along with them. I gave up the pictures by middle school, but the story writing bug never really went away!
How would you describe your books? – Sassy and sexy with a hefty dollop of humor thrown in.
Why was The Saint’s Devilish Deal a book you wanted to write? – I love redemption stories, and reunion stories are one of my favorites, too. So when the characters of Santiago and Esme came to me I knew they needed to have pasts, that the pasts needed to be intertwined and I thought a reunion romance would be a great way to help them along their road to happily ever after.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you? – Getting the first half of the book right. I know a LOT of writers who can write the first draft, go back and fix problems in edits and not worry about the little things on the first go-round. I can do that, to some extent, but I have to have a good grasp of who my characters are and their issues before I can really move forward into the story. So, I go through a LOT of drafts of the first half of my books. I write, revise, re-write, start over. Once I have those characters issues down, the rest of the story can flow, but I have to have them right first.
What are your favorite genres to read? – I like all romance genres, but contemporary and romantic suspense are my favorites. That said, give me a good with great characters and I'm in for the story!
What do you want readers to take away from your story? – That love is both a great gift to give and receive. Saint and Esme both struggle with accepting love, because of their pasts. They're willing to give it, but accepting is a different story. Accepting might include hurt somewhere along the line. Accepting love, though, also opens the heart, and that is a good thing.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days? – I love social media! It's a great way to meet and interact with readers and other writers. I think it's an important part of the marketing of authors and their books, but I think looking at social media as only a marketing tool is a mistake. Social media should be more about getting to know other people than screaming 'hey, buy my book' all the time. Although I do share books links (my own and books I've liked).
What would be your advice to aspiring writers? To find a way of writing that works for you and to keep trying. My way of writing – getting those first 5-6 chapters perfect before moving on – isn't for everyone. Just as writing with no editing until the draft is finished isn't for everyone. We all need to find what works for us and use that. And, we have to keep improving, sending out manuscripts and trying new things so that we're always growing.
**Excerpt**
Esme ran her index finger along the neckline of her silk blouse, praying for a little relieffrom the oppressive heat Santiago brought into the room with him. Glancing up she saw the fanwas, indeed, still moving. The air itself seemed to hold still for him.“. . .and so Constance wants you to run the villa, with Esmerelda, for the next six months.Three with you in charge, three with Esme running things.” Velazquez’s tone said Esme runninganything would end in disaster. “At the end of that time, a decision will be made as to the futureof Casa. Although, I have to say, based on the bank balances and outstanding loans, I don’t seemuch hope for it.” Velazquez tapped the file closed and clasped his hands together on the deskblotter.“I will not vacate my property to leave him—” she jerked her thumb toward the pseudosurfercurrently slouched on the lawyer’s Spanish leather sofa “—in charge for five minutes,much less the three months mentioned in that letter.”Since being summoned to Puerto Vallarta, Esme’s world had turned topsy-turvy. A villaemployee had met her at the airport gate, delivering a single-page note from Aunt Constance,telling Esme that Santiago would help her run the villa until Con’s return from a private medicalfacility. Esme had barely known Constance was sick and now she was gone before Esme couldeven set down her suitcase.Esme spared another glace toward the sofa. Was Santiago paler than when he’d walkedin? Couldn’t be. No, his casual posture in the corner of the sofa belied any of the surprise thatwas currently making it hard for her to breathe. The Patek Phillipe watch on his wrist, costingmore than her entire ensemble, might be the only vestige of the businessman she remembered—but that man still existed. He wasn’t surprised and she shouldn’t be. Aunt Constance alwaysliked a little healthy competition, she reminded herself.But a vacation resort needed stability to grow, not one manger one week and another thenext.“Señorita Quinn, I know this comes as a shock, but Constance was very clear before sheleft for her extended rest.” The lawyer’s voice brought Esme abruptly back to the present. Hisglance skipped from her face to Santiago’s and back again as he clenched his jaw.Great, she’d annoyed the only man who could reverse this ridiculous situation.“As long as we’re both on the property, though, we meet Constance’s demands, correct?So how about keeping him on in an advisory capacity, while I run things?”“Constance was clear. She wants you and Santiago to run the villa. As I’ve said, for threemonths you will be in control, for three months Santiago will run things. If either of you leave,I’m to auction the property.”“We all know the highest bidder at any auction will be Eduardo Cruz. Why would I workwith one Cruz while another is already waiting to take my property?” Crossing her arms over herchest, Esme sat back. Santiago shifted and she cut her eyes to the sofa, focusing on her nemesis.“Look, you may have conned Aunt Constance with your surfer boy routine, but I don’t buy it.You don’t want to run a hotel. You don’t even want to be here, so why don’t you go buy a coffee downstairs while the adults talk?”The lawyer gasped but Santiago only grinned. Just like him not to get an insult whenaimed directly at him. Or his feet, since she found it hard to look directly into those deep browneyes without wanting to drown in them. God, she thought she was past the point of beingcharmed by The Saint.“I see the kitten has sharpened her claws,” he drawled. Each syllable rolled off his tonguelike honey. Despite the heat of the day, Esme shivered. ***********************************************************************************
Author Bio:
Once upon a time, Kristina Knight spent her days running from car crash to fire to meetings with local police - no, she wasn't a trouble-maker she was a journalist. When the opportunity to write what she wanted - business and family/parenting articles - and to focus more energy on the stories in her head, she jumped at it.
And she's never looked back. Now she writes articles for magazines and such by day and writes romance novels with spice by night. And any toddler-free, five minute break she has. She lives on Lake Erie with her husband and 4 year old daughter. Happily ever after.
Connect with Kristina! Website: http://www.kristinaknightauthor.comFB: http://www.facebook.com/kristinaknightromanceauthorTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/authorkristina
Buy the Book!
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Saints-Devilish-Deal-ebook/dp/B0096D6WFE/ref=la_B0081LO6DM_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1349205407&sr=1-2iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-saints-devilish-deal/id559862469?mt=11B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/kristina-knight
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you? – From an early age, although I didn't know what 'being a writer' meant at that point. I just liked to write my own stories and draw really, really terrible pictures to go along with them. I gave up the pictures by middle school, but the story writing bug never really went away!
How would you describe your books? – Sassy and sexy with a hefty dollop of humor thrown in.
Why was The Saint’s Devilish Deal a book you wanted to write? – I love redemption stories, and reunion stories are one of my favorites, too. So when the characters of Santiago and Esme came to me I knew they needed to have pasts, that the pasts needed to be intertwined and I thought a reunion romance would be a great way to help them along their road to happily ever after.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you? – Getting the first half of the book right. I know a LOT of writers who can write the first draft, go back and fix problems in edits and not worry about the little things on the first go-round. I can do that, to some extent, but I have to have a good grasp of who my characters are and their issues before I can really move forward into the story. So, I go through a LOT of drafts of the first half of my books. I write, revise, re-write, start over. Once I have those characters issues down, the rest of the story can flow, but I have to have them right first.
What are your favorite genres to read? – I like all romance genres, but contemporary and romantic suspense are my favorites. That said, give me a good with great characters and I'm in for the story!
What do you want readers to take away from your story? – That love is both a great gift to give and receive. Saint and Esme both struggle with accepting love, because of their pasts. They're willing to give it, but accepting is a different story. Accepting might include hurt somewhere along the line. Accepting love, though, also opens the heart, and that is a good thing.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days? – I love social media! It's a great way to meet and interact with readers and other writers. I think it's an important part of the marketing of authors and their books, but I think looking at social media as only a marketing tool is a mistake. Social media should be more about getting to know other people than screaming 'hey, buy my book' all the time. Although I do share books links (my own and books I've liked).
What would be your advice to aspiring writers? To find a way of writing that works for you and to keep trying. My way of writing – getting those first 5-6 chapters perfect before moving on – isn't for everyone. Just as writing with no editing until the draft is finished isn't for everyone. We all need to find what works for us and use that. And, we have to keep improving, sending out manuscripts and trying new things so that we're always growing.
**Excerpt**
Esme ran her index finger along the neckline of her silk blouse, praying for a little relieffrom the oppressive heat Santiago brought into the room with him. Glancing up she saw the fanwas, indeed, still moving. The air itself seemed to hold still for him.“. . .and so Constance wants you to run the villa, with Esmerelda, for the next six months.Three with you in charge, three with Esme running things.” Velazquez’s tone said Esme runninganything would end in disaster. “At the end of that time, a decision will be made as to the futureof Casa. Although, I have to say, based on the bank balances and outstanding loans, I don’t seemuch hope for it.” Velazquez tapped the file closed and clasped his hands together on the deskblotter.“I will not vacate my property to leave him—” she jerked her thumb toward the pseudosurfercurrently slouched on the lawyer’s Spanish leather sofa “—in charge for five minutes,much less the three months mentioned in that letter.”Since being summoned to Puerto Vallarta, Esme’s world had turned topsy-turvy. A villaemployee had met her at the airport gate, delivering a single-page note from Aunt Constance,telling Esme that Santiago would help her run the villa until Con’s return from a private medicalfacility. Esme had barely known Constance was sick and now she was gone before Esme couldeven set down her suitcase.Esme spared another glace toward the sofa. Was Santiago paler than when he’d walkedin? Couldn’t be. No, his casual posture in the corner of the sofa belied any of the surprise thatwas currently making it hard for her to breathe. The Patek Phillipe watch on his wrist, costingmore than her entire ensemble, might be the only vestige of the businessman she remembered—but that man still existed. He wasn’t surprised and she shouldn’t be. Aunt Constance alwaysliked a little healthy competition, she reminded herself.But a vacation resort needed stability to grow, not one manger one week and another thenext.“Señorita Quinn, I know this comes as a shock, but Constance was very clear before sheleft for her extended rest.” The lawyer’s voice brought Esme abruptly back to the present. Hisglance skipped from her face to Santiago’s and back again as he clenched his jaw.Great, she’d annoyed the only man who could reverse this ridiculous situation.“As long as we’re both on the property, though, we meet Constance’s demands, correct?So how about keeping him on in an advisory capacity, while I run things?”“Constance was clear. She wants you and Santiago to run the villa. As I’ve said, for threemonths you will be in control, for three months Santiago will run things. If either of you leave,I’m to auction the property.”“We all know the highest bidder at any auction will be Eduardo Cruz. Why would I workwith one Cruz while another is already waiting to take my property?” Crossing her arms over herchest, Esme sat back. Santiago shifted and she cut her eyes to the sofa, focusing on her nemesis.“Look, you may have conned Aunt Constance with your surfer boy routine, but I don’t buy it.You don’t want to run a hotel. You don’t even want to be here, so why don’t you go buy a coffee downstairs while the adults talk?”The lawyer gasped but Santiago only grinned. Just like him not to get an insult whenaimed directly at him. Or his feet, since she found it hard to look directly into those deep browneyes without wanting to drown in them. God, she thought she was past the point of beingcharmed by The Saint.“I see the kitten has sharpened her claws,” he drawled. Each syllable rolled off his tonguelike honey. Despite the heat of the day, Esme shivered. ***********************************************************************************
Author Bio:
Once upon a time, Kristina Knight spent her days running from car crash to fire to meetings with local police - no, she wasn't a trouble-maker she was a journalist. When the opportunity to write what she wanted - business and family/parenting articles - and to focus more energy on the stories in her head, she jumped at it.
And she's never looked back. Now she writes articles for magazines and such by day and writes romance novels with spice by night. And any toddler-free, five minute break she has. She lives on Lake Erie with her husband and 4 year old daughter. Happily ever after.
Connect with Kristina! Website: http://www.kristinaknightauthor.comFB: http://www.facebook.com/kristinaknightromanceauthorTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/authorkristina
Buy the Book!
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Saints-Devilish-Deal-ebook/dp/B0096D6WFE/ref=la_B0081LO6DM_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1349205407&sr=1-2iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-saints-devilish-deal/id559862469?mt=11B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/kristina-knight
October 25, 2012
The Next Big Thing: Authors Tagging Authors!
I am excited to take part in The Next Big Thing: Authors Tagging Authors! I was tagged by the lovely Isabella with Chick Lit Goddess, and I am thrilled to keep this going. So what I do is answer these questions below, tag a new set of 5 authors, then they answer, tag authors, etc. I’m going to be answering questions about my second novel, The Green Ticket, which will be on sale December 5! What is the working title of your book?
The title is THE GREEN TICKET. I actually had the title picked out before the majority of the story was written. The scene in which my characters discuss “the green ticket” was the first scene written for the book.
Where did the idea come from for the book?
I’ve found myself fascinated lately with the whole money versus morals issue. It was after a professional acquaintance I knew married a man 50 years her senior that I became really interested in exploring the topic further. While the book doesn’t focus on a Hugh Hefner-type relationship, that is where the spark of it came from.
What genre does your book fall under?I classify it as women’s fiction/chick lit. The characters are too old for YA, but I like to think there is some humor involved along the way.
Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
Ooh, that’s tough! For Alex, I think Emma Stone, when she has her gorgeous red hair. For Lila, Blake Lively, as that is who I pictured for her character, and I have a mega girl crush on her. And for Henry, maybe like a Zach Efron?
And for the authors I have tagged:
Emily ShafferDonna Joy UsherLaurel OsterkampAddison TowneZoe McNight
GIVEAWAY: Mary Indiana by Anneke Campbell
I am really excited to have a copy of Mary Indiana by Anneke Campbell up for grabs! I have read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. I have 2 eBook copies to giveaway - either Kindle or ePub - and the winners will be drawn on Sunday, October 28. Please fill out the form below to be entered. Thanks to CLP Blog Tours for sponsoring this giveaway!
Summary:
She’s eighteen and pregnant, but with a twist--the new kid in town’s barely been kissed! Could she really be a virgin? The town doc swears it’s true. There’s just GOTTA be an explanation.
But it’s not coming from Mary, as she’s quickly dubbed. She seems to have taken a vow of silence. So it’s up to the citizens of Bellingham to make their own miracles—or at least their own myths. The new celeb is instantly surrounded by hangers-on, miracle-seekers, paparazzi, preachers, and promoters—to hilarious effect.
But are they dealing with an angel here, or someone playing an angle? Con, in a word, or icon? And by the way, what’s up with that strange light in the sky? Could be she came off a spaceship.
Neither sacred nor profane, nor even paranormal, Campbell’s beautifully written book is at once funny and wise, a savvy story of how myths are made, how minds twist and turn around the extraordinary, how the human organism just can’t help grabbing for the supernatural, whether out of the spiritual need for a miracle or a mundane desire for cash.
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Summary:She’s eighteen and pregnant, but with a twist--the new kid in town’s barely been kissed! Could she really be a virgin? The town doc swears it’s true. There’s just GOTTA be an explanation.
But it’s not coming from Mary, as she’s quickly dubbed. She seems to have taken a vow of silence. So it’s up to the citizens of Bellingham to make their own miracles—or at least their own myths. The new celeb is instantly surrounded by hangers-on, miracle-seekers, paparazzi, preachers, and promoters—to hilarious effect.
But are they dealing with an angel here, or someone playing an angle? Con, in a word, or icon? And by the way, what’s up with that strange light in the sky? Could be she came off a spaceship.
Neither sacred nor profane, nor even paranormal, Campbell’s beautifully written book is at once funny and wise, a savvy story of how myths are made, how minds twist and turn around the extraordinary, how the human organism just can’t help grabbing for the supernatural, whether out of the spiritual need for a miracle or a mundane desire for cash.
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October 24, 2012
Interview and Excerpt: November Surprise by Laurel Osterkamp
Thanks to Laurel Osterkamp for stopping by with a Q&A and excerpt from November Surprise. Please visit her tour page on CLP Blog Tours for more information and a giveaway!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?I’ve always loved writing, ever since I was a kid. But it wasn’t until I took the plunge, and wrote my first novel, Following My Toes, that I realized it was something I could do long term. I thought it would be hard to write an entire book, but the hardest part was letting go of my fears and excuses for why I shouldn’t do it.
How would you describe your books?Intelligent women’s fiction. I try to create books with real people and real relationships. I want my books to be at once funny and thoughtful. That’s what I’m going for, anyway.
Why was November Surprise a book you wanted to write?Well, I’m a political junkie, and I’m also a sucker for a good love story. I thought it would be fun to combine the two.
What made you want to write about politics, and what kind of research had to go into this book?I follow politics like a lot of people follow sports, and my entire family is that way. We can sit around and analyze political situations for hours, arguing without really disagreeing about anything. Because of that, I remembered a lot about past elections without having to do tons of research, but I did look up a lot of stuff on the internet to verify the details. The 2000 election was the hardest, because there was so much going on! I couldn’t find what the Florida recount guidelines were ANYWHERE – it turns out there weren’t any! It varied county by county. Finally, I netflixed the movie Recount, watched it, and took a ton of notes.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?Describing the setting! I always forget to provide details like that.
What are your favorite genres to read?I love chick-lit, YA, some literary fiction, and dystopian tales.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?Lucy, the main character, states the theme towards the end. “It’s our history that brought us to this point, and it’s made us who we are.” Since the whole book is about finding parallels between Lucy’s personal dramas and the country’s public dramas, I think that’s what I want readers to take away. While I obviously make my political leanings pretty clear, the book isn’t meant to influence readers in that way. People are going to think what they want, but hopefully my book will get them thinking.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?It’s very important! I wish I was better at it. I never know what to say in tweets or in Facebook posts.What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Stick with it, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Find someone you trust and share your writing with them. Writing can be so solitary; you need to expose yourself to other perspectives.
**Excerpt**
Monty and I have been dancing together all evening. The slow songs are the best, but we also do the Macarena and even the Chicken Dance. I can’t stop laughing the entire time I’m quacking my hands.Jack and his new wife, Petra, have fed each other cake. Petra has thrown her bouquet, and all the toasts have been given. The night is winding down, and Monty leads me off the dance floor.“I’m really glad neither of us had dates,” he says.“Yeah, me too.” My heart beats just a little bit faster than normal.“And I’m sorry about earlier. Hitting on you like that. It was clumsy. Will you forgive me?” His face is flushed and his tie is loosened. I’m sure I’ve noticed before how good looking he is, but this is the first time I’ve let myself appreciate it.“There’s nothing to forgive.” I look around, make sure nobody is watching, and then I stand on my tip-toes and plant a kiss on his cheek. When he doesn’t flinch or pull away, I give him the barest whisper of a kiss on the lips.It’s all the encouragement he needs.With a conspiratorial smile, he takes my hand and leads me outside the reception hall. I follow willingly. When we get to a dark, hidden spot, he wraps his arms around my waist and kisses me deeply. I can feel it everywhere, my entire body is tingling, my knees are weak, and I’m sure that at any moment, my heart will explode.I don’t want him to stop. But he does.“Where are you staying tonight?” he asks.“I was going to drive back to my parents’ house.”“Hmm…” he leans in and kisses me some more. I press up against him like I can’t get close enough. He tilts his head back ever so slightly, so he can talk. “That’s a long drive. Do you want to stay with me, instead?”“You have a hotel room?”“It’s close to the airport,” he whispers. “I fly back to New York really early tomorrow.” Then he baby kisses my eyes, nose, and chin. I don’t answer immediately. I’m trying to steady my breathing. “So you can make a clean get away?”“It’s not like that.” he smiles. “And you haven’t even said yes, yet.” But he knows I’m going to. “You can’t ever tell Jack,” I say.“He just got married, Lucy. Do you really think he’ll care?”I rub my hands down his back and across the taut muscles in his arms. “I never had sex with him, and we dated for months. If he finds out you and I had a one night stand…”Monty cuts me off with another kiss. “I promise I’ll never tell him,” he murmurs, between kisses.We make out a few seconds more, but our kissing is interrupted when I’m consumed with a fit of giggles.“What’s so funny?” Monty asks.I shake my head. “Sorry. It just occurred to me. I’m about to do it with the homecoming king.”Monty chuckles. “Does that turn you on?”“Yeah,” I admit. “Kind of. Is that okay?”He kisses my neck. I tilt my head back and sigh in pleasure. “Are you kidding?” His lips are a mere centimeter from my skin as he mumbles, and his arms tighten around me even more. “If I had known, I would have worn my crown.”Now we’re both laughing.“You know this isn’t the sort of thing I usually do…”He raises his face so he’s looking me in the eye. “I know,” he says, and he smiles. Crinkles form around his green eyes, and I feel a moment of panic. There’s no way I’m casual enough to be with him for just one night.“Let’s make it special, okay?” He reaches down and clasps my hand, and I let him lead me somewhere, again. This time, I follow him to the parking lot. Tonight, I’d follow him anywhere. *********************************************************************************
**Everyone who leaves a comment on Laurel's tour page will be entered to win a $10 Amazon gift card! Anyone who purchases their copy of November Surprise before November 12 and sends their receipt to Samantha (at) ChickLitPlus (dot) com, will get five bonus entries.**
Author Bio:
Laurel Osterkamp was a comedy writer in Minneapolis before she began writing novels. Her first novel, Following My Toes, has been a Kindle best seller and won the 2008 Indie Excellence Award for Chick Lit. Starring in the Movie of My Life received honors in the 2011 Indie Excellence Awards for Chick Lit, and in the 2011 International Book Awards for Women's Fiction and Young Adult Lit. Both books are indie approved at indiereader.com. She currently teaches high school, and is working on her next book, which is inspired by her recent jury duty. Connect with Laurel!
http://www.laurelosterkamp.com/ - my websitehttp://www.laurelosterkamp.blogspot.com/ - my bloghttp://www.novembersurprises.blogspot.com/ - blog written by "Lucy" that continues the story of November Surprise, about the 2012 campaign Buy the Book! http://www.amazon.com/November-Surprise-ebook/dp/B008TWYW0U/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1350654507&sr=8-3&keywords=laurel+osterkamp
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?I’ve always loved writing, ever since I was a kid. But it wasn’t until I took the plunge, and wrote my first novel, Following My Toes, that I realized it was something I could do long term. I thought it would be hard to write an entire book, but the hardest part was letting go of my fears and excuses for why I shouldn’t do it.
How would you describe your books?Intelligent women’s fiction. I try to create books with real people and real relationships. I want my books to be at once funny and thoughtful. That’s what I’m going for, anyway.
Why was November Surprise a book you wanted to write?Well, I’m a political junkie, and I’m also a sucker for a good love story. I thought it would be fun to combine the two.
What made you want to write about politics, and what kind of research had to go into this book?I follow politics like a lot of people follow sports, and my entire family is that way. We can sit around and analyze political situations for hours, arguing without really disagreeing about anything. Because of that, I remembered a lot about past elections without having to do tons of research, but I did look up a lot of stuff on the internet to verify the details. The 2000 election was the hardest, because there was so much going on! I couldn’t find what the Florida recount guidelines were ANYWHERE – it turns out there weren’t any! It varied county by county. Finally, I netflixed the movie Recount, watched it, and took a ton of notes.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?Describing the setting! I always forget to provide details like that.
What are your favorite genres to read?I love chick-lit, YA, some literary fiction, and dystopian tales.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?Lucy, the main character, states the theme towards the end. “It’s our history that brought us to this point, and it’s made us who we are.” Since the whole book is about finding parallels between Lucy’s personal dramas and the country’s public dramas, I think that’s what I want readers to take away. While I obviously make my political leanings pretty clear, the book isn’t meant to influence readers in that way. People are going to think what they want, but hopefully my book will get them thinking.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?It’s very important! I wish I was better at it. I never know what to say in tweets or in Facebook posts.What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Stick with it, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Find someone you trust and share your writing with them. Writing can be so solitary; you need to expose yourself to other perspectives.
**Excerpt**
Monty and I have been dancing together all evening. The slow songs are the best, but we also do the Macarena and even the Chicken Dance. I can’t stop laughing the entire time I’m quacking my hands.Jack and his new wife, Petra, have fed each other cake. Petra has thrown her bouquet, and all the toasts have been given. The night is winding down, and Monty leads me off the dance floor.“I’m really glad neither of us had dates,” he says.“Yeah, me too.” My heart beats just a little bit faster than normal.“And I’m sorry about earlier. Hitting on you like that. It was clumsy. Will you forgive me?” His face is flushed and his tie is loosened. I’m sure I’ve noticed before how good looking he is, but this is the first time I’ve let myself appreciate it.“There’s nothing to forgive.” I look around, make sure nobody is watching, and then I stand on my tip-toes and plant a kiss on his cheek. When he doesn’t flinch or pull away, I give him the barest whisper of a kiss on the lips.It’s all the encouragement he needs.With a conspiratorial smile, he takes my hand and leads me outside the reception hall. I follow willingly. When we get to a dark, hidden spot, he wraps his arms around my waist and kisses me deeply. I can feel it everywhere, my entire body is tingling, my knees are weak, and I’m sure that at any moment, my heart will explode.I don’t want him to stop. But he does.“Where are you staying tonight?” he asks.“I was going to drive back to my parents’ house.”“Hmm…” he leans in and kisses me some more. I press up against him like I can’t get close enough. He tilts his head back ever so slightly, so he can talk. “That’s a long drive. Do you want to stay with me, instead?”“You have a hotel room?”“It’s close to the airport,” he whispers. “I fly back to New York really early tomorrow.” Then he baby kisses my eyes, nose, and chin. I don’t answer immediately. I’m trying to steady my breathing. “So you can make a clean get away?”“It’s not like that.” he smiles. “And you haven’t even said yes, yet.” But he knows I’m going to. “You can’t ever tell Jack,” I say.“He just got married, Lucy. Do you really think he’ll care?”I rub my hands down his back and across the taut muscles in his arms. “I never had sex with him, and we dated for months. If he finds out you and I had a one night stand…”Monty cuts me off with another kiss. “I promise I’ll never tell him,” he murmurs, between kisses.We make out a few seconds more, but our kissing is interrupted when I’m consumed with a fit of giggles.“What’s so funny?” Monty asks.I shake my head. “Sorry. It just occurred to me. I’m about to do it with the homecoming king.”Monty chuckles. “Does that turn you on?”“Yeah,” I admit. “Kind of. Is that okay?”He kisses my neck. I tilt my head back and sigh in pleasure. “Are you kidding?” His lips are a mere centimeter from my skin as he mumbles, and his arms tighten around me even more. “If I had known, I would have worn my crown.”Now we’re both laughing.“You know this isn’t the sort of thing I usually do…”He raises his face so he’s looking me in the eye. “I know,” he says, and he smiles. Crinkles form around his green eyes, and I feel a moment of panic. There’s no way I’m casual enough to be with him for just one night.“Let’s make it special, okay?” He reaches down and clasps my hand, and I let him lead me somewhere, again. This time, I follow him to the parking lot. Tonight, I’d follow him anywhere. *********************************************************************************
**Everyone who leaves a comment on Laurel's tour page will be entered to win a $10 Amazon gift card! Anyone who purchases their copy of November Surprise before November 12 and sends their receipt to Samantha (at) ChickLitPlus (dot) com, will get five bonus entries.**
Author Bio:
Laurel Osterkamp was a comedy writer in Minneapolis before she began writing novels. Her first novel, Following My Toes, has been a Kindle best seller and won the 2008 Indie Excellence Award for Chick Lit. Starring in the Movie of My Life received honors in the 2011 Indie Excellence Awards for Chick Lit, and in the 2011 International Book Awards for Women's Fiction and Young Adult Lit. Both books are indie approved at indiereader.com. She currently teaches high school, and is working on her next book, which is inspired by her recent jury duty. Connect with Laurel!
http://www.laurelosterkamp.com/ - my websitehttp://www.laurelosterkamp.blogspot.com/ - my bloghttp://www.novembersurprises.blogspot.com/ - blog written by "Lucy" that continues the story of November Surprise, about the 2012 campaign Buy the Book! http://www.amazon.com/November-Surprise-ebook/dp/B008TWYW0U/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1350654507&sr=8-3&keywords=laurel+osterkamp
October 23, 2012
The Green Ticket Has a Pub Date!
I am happy to announce the pub date for my second novel is going to be December 5! I am thrilled to get THE GREEN TICKET out there, and now will anxiously be awaiting my early Christmas present. I have a blog tour in the works with my company CLP Blog Tours, and am starting to tap into some more marketing around that time. If you are blogger and would like to feature me or review the book, please just drop me a line at samantha (at) chicklitplus (dot) com and we can work something out! Is it December yet?THE GREEN TICKET SUMMARY:
College junior Alex Abrams scores her dream job at the ripe age of twenty – manager to a successful salon and spa. Thrilled to finally have a real adult job, Alex enthusiastically jumps into the world of schedules, conference calls, and getting a massage when interviewing prospective employees. What she doesn’t expect are the very grown-up issues that comes with a demanding boss. Kevin Dohlman quickly becomes Alex’s worse nightmare – covering up his affairs, dealing with his enormous ego, and trying to protect her female staff from him becomes a full-time job in its own right. Alex has also befriended Kevin’s wife and co-owner, Dani, and is trying to keep Kevin’s secrets hidden from her. The situation only worsens when Kevin starts paying Alex off to make sure she keeps her insider knowledge to herself. While struggling to keep her wits and stay happy with her new grown-up job, Alex is juggling college courses, a new love interest, and keeping up with her close group of girlfriends. When her roommate and best friend Lila gets offered an opportunity to move to Los Angeles and sign with an agent, Alex realizes her life truly is changing, and everyone around her – including herself –– is growing up. Knowing she is faced with some hard decisions ahead, Alex struggles with keeping her job at Blissful. But does she really want to throw away what she dreamed of as a career – or will the secret-keeping for Kevin become too much to handle? The Green Ticket is a story about morals versus money, and how one young woman navigates the shaky line between the two.
October 22, 2012
Excerpt from Suburban Task Force by Addison Towne
Please enjoy this excerpt from Suburban Task Force by Addison Towne, courtesy of CLP Blog Tours!
We move like night stalkers down the hall, using our hands to feel the way, all the while trying to keep ourbreathing in check. This is not an easy task. With every breath of air I feel a burning in my lungs. Like someone’sinside my body, punching me from the inside, reminding me that I’m alive and crazy at that. I guess this is what theycall adrenaline. You don’t tend to get the same effect by doing a Cindy Crawford workout tape.“Okay so that means if we take out 15 guys each, we’re good to go!” Suzie says enthusiastically.“Are you guy’s crazy?” I whisper loudly. We can’t take out 50 trained soldiers! All we did was go on one selfdefenseweekend! We’re not trained for this! We’re not trained for anything unless you consider shoe shopping asport. You can't be serious?"“What? You think we’ll be killed so easily?” Chloe asks me.“They have our husbands,” Suzie says solemnly.“Okay, so what’s the plan then? We save our husbands and leave everyone else behind?” I ask with outrage.“It has to be all or nothing you guys,” I say standing up. “We have to take them all or we have to try and get off thisisland so we can notify someone qualified as to what’s going on here.” I finish and start to check out our new gear.“That’s easy then, we take them all!” Suzie says standing up as well.“Take them all and make em’ hurt for trying!” Chloe joins in.“Um, okay, can someone please direct me to the sanity section of this little pow wow because I was pretty sureyou guys were going to go for the other option?”They both shake their heads.“So I have to be the rational one here? Be the one to come up with examples of why trying this rescue missionon our own is an incredibly bad idea and all. Like being around for your kids, or simply coming home from this islandalive!” I look them dead in the eye waiting for them to give, but I get no response.“Fine then, what the heck. I feel a little crazy, wasn’t diggin’ the good life too much, so I guess we find a way totake them all!” I say with total sarcasm.“We’re like the Suburban Task Force you guys,” Suzie says.“Yeah, they don’t know what they’ve gotten themselves into!” Chloe chants.“If we can deal with snooty neighbors, traffic nightmares, screaming kids, and crabby husbands all while tryingto look good and stay in shape, well then they’ve got another thing coming!” I say and put my hand in the air and wehigh five because in this situation it’s oh so cool.***********************************************************************************Check out my interview with Addison Towne!
Author Bio:
Addison Towne is a lover of fashion, foes and fun! She was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her background in television, film and marketing gave her the motivation and passion to write Suburban Task Force. As a entrepreneur she has spent the last ten years developing brands and products that have earned her awards and recognition ranging from a television Emmy to a CEO of the year Women Making a Difference nod.
You can reach her via email at AddisonTowne@gmail.com. She is currently working on the next Suburban Task Force series and looks forward to reader input.
Connect with Addison!
AddisonTowne@gmail.com
Www.suburbantaskforce.com
Www.addisontowne.com
@addisontowne (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/addison.towne(Facebook)
http://pinterest.com/addisontowne/Pinterest (help fill Jade, Suzie and Chloe's Closets with fun stuff!)
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/Suburban-Force-Lydell-Novel-ebook/dp/B0084QDJA0/To purchase on Amazon
We move like night stalkers down the hall, using our hands to feel the way, all the while trying to keep ourbreathing in check. This is not an easy task. With every breath of air I feel a burning in my lungs. Like someone’sinside my body, punching me from the inside, reminding me that I’m alive and crazy at that. I guess this is what theycall adrenaline. You don’t tend to get the same effect by doing a Cindy Crawford workout tape.“Okay so that means if we take out 15 guys each, we’re good to go!” Suzie says enthusiastically.“Are you guy’s crazy?” I whisper loudly. We can’t take out 50 trained soldiers! All we did was go on one selfdefenseweekend! We’re not trained for this! We’re not trained for anything unless you consider shoe shopping asport. You can't be serious?"“What? You think we’ll be killed so easily?” Chloe asks me.“They have our husbands,” Suzie says solemnly.“Okay, so what’s the plan then? We save our husbands and leave everyone else behind?” I ask with outrage.“It has to be all or nothing you guys,” I say standing up. “We have to take them all or we have to try and get off thisisland so we can notify someone qualified as to what’s going on here.” I finish and start to check out our new gear.“That’s easy then, we take them all!” Suzie says standing up as well.“Take them all and make em’ hurt for trying!” Chloe joins in.“Um, okay, can someone please direct me to the sanity section of this little pow wow because I was pretty sureyou guys were going to go for the other option?”They both shake their heads.“So I have to be the rational one here? Be the one to come up with examples of why trying this rescue missionon our own is an incredibly bad idea and all. Like being around for your kids, or simply coming home from this islandalive!” I look them dead in the eye waiting for them to give, but I get no response.“Fine then, what the heck. I feel a little crazy, wasn’t diggin’ the good life too much, so I guess we find a way totake them all!” I say with total sarcasm.“We’re like the Suburban Task Force you guys,” Suzie says.“Yeah, they don’t know what they’ve gotten themselves into!” Chloe chants.“If we can deal with snooty neighbors, traffic nightmares, screaming kids, and crabby husbands all while tryingto look good and stay in shape, well then they’ve got another thing coming!” I say and put my hand in the air and wehigh five because in this situation it’s oh so cool.***********************************************************************************Check out my interview with Addison Towne!Author Bio:
Addison Towne is a lover of fashion, foes and fun! She was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her background in television, film and marketing gave her the motivation and passion to write Suburban Task Force. As a entrepreneur she has spent the last ten years developing brands and products that have earned her awards and recognition ranging from a television Emmy to a CEO of the year Women Making a Difference nod.
You can reach her via email at AddisonTowne@gmail.com. She is currently working on the next Suburban Task Force series and looks forward to reader input.
Connect with Addison!
AddisonTowne@gmail.com
Www.suburbantaskforce.com
Www.addisontowne.com
@addisontowne (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/addison.towne(Facebook)
http://pinterest.com/addisontowne/Pinterest (help fill Jade, Suzie and Chloe's Closets with fun stuff!)
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/Suburban-Force-Lydell-Novel-ebook/dp/B0084QDJA0/To purchase on Amazon
October 20, 2012
Interview and Excerpt: Sex, Lies & Hot Tubs by Elissa Ambrose
Thanks to Elissa Ambrose for stopping by with a Q&A and excerpt from Sex, Lies & Hot Tubs. Please visit CLP Blog Tours for more information!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?I taught myself to read from comic books when I was four years old, and it was as natural as breathing that writing would follow. But I didn’t read those comics for the action; I was intrigued by their concepts. What was there before time? Why am I here? Do superheroes sweat? As a result, stories of my own began to unfold in my head. Suddenly what happened to Dick and Jane, whether or not they lived happily ever after and what occurred in the interim, took precedence over the lofty concepts of life, the universe and everything. But I wrote only for myself. It wasn’t until decades later that I began to consider writing as something I could do for an audience. My daughter submitted a short story I’d written to a literary journal, they published it, and that was the beginning of it all.How would you describe your books?Life with a quirky slant. It’s how I see the world.What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?The first draft. The story has already been told—albeit, it’s all in my head—and I don’t feel like telling it again. If I were one of those writers who write on the fly, that dreaded first draft wouldn’t feel so tedious, as I’d be figuring it out for the first time as I write. Maybe it’s because I used to be a programmer or maybe it’s the way I’m wired, but I need to have a plan before I dive into Chapter One. It’s the rewriting I love—the revising, the shaping, the editing. For me, that’s where the magic happens. That’s where the story really comes to life.What are your favorite genres to read?Women’s fiction, science fiction, mystery, literary, YA, cereal boxes—just about anything, really. Though I have to admit, I’m not a big fan of high fantasy. Seriously, what’s with all those apostrophes?What do you want readers to take away from your story?If a story has reached you in any way, whether it has made you question something you’ve always believed in or reaffirm what you’ve always known, if you have seen yourself in one of the characters and come away feeling inspired, renewed, or simply validated, then the writer has triumphed. But then, most writers aren’t Steinbeck. Here’s the thing. If I can entertain you, if for just a few hours you can forget your problems and enjoy the ride, if you can remember my story the day after you’ve read it, then I’ve succeeded. As for this story in particular, I’d like to leave you with this thought: Do you know where your husband is? (Just kidding. Maybe.)How important do you think social media is for authors these days?These days, a writer has to wear many hats. Even in traditional publishing, much of the marketing has become the responsibility of the author. With the ongoing transition from print to digital, it only makes sense for authors to have a presence in the digital world. Also, I think it’s wonderful that readers can connect so easily with their favorite authors. Problem is, social media is evolving so rapidly, it’s hard to define exactly what it is. Sometimes it gets a little noisy. It can also be addicting. It’s easy for an author to get bogged down and forget her true mission—to tell a story. I love the interaction, but when I’m in the throes of a story, I have to wear my other hat and turn down the volume.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?Read and write every day. Also, you never know when your muse will come knocking, so always carry a notepad. It’ll never run low on battery and you don’t have to plug it in.
**Excerpt**
The restaurant was pretentious and pricey, and I was prepared to hate it. The maître d’ led me to a table in back, but it was too dark and the air-conditioning too cold, so I asked for a table outside. I followed him through a glass doorway. The view from the terrace was festive with saguaro cacti wrapped in strands of twinkling lights, and the fog from the misters, cooling the air with a fine spray, added an aura of romance. I began to unwind.At a table near the glass door, a man of about seventy was holding the hand of a much younger woman. I figured he was a widower. A pinstriped shirt with a plaid tie suggested he needed someone to take care of him. Though I doubted he’d stay single for long. A man loses his mate of forty or more years, and six months later he finds another love of his life. Or rather, she finds him. Like a shark, she can smell his rich bleeding heart an ocean away.I ordered a glass of white wine and pondered this some more. Men who start over aren’t always alone. Some are husbands who simply wake up one morning and decide they want a new life. They want their space, they want their freedom, yada, yada. But like the widowers, six months later they find the new love of their lives. Then there are the repeaters, like my father. He found the new love of his life many times over before he finally moved out.Jeffrey arrived twenty minutes after my third glass of wine. “I stopped for these,” he explained, handing me a bouquet. “One rose for each year we’ve lived in Scottsdale. Can you believe it’s been twelve years?”Twelve years since he insisted we upgrade our suburb as well as our house. Twelve years since we sold the small bungalow in Mesa, our first house together. Actually, it was twelve years and three months. I regarded the bouquet with suspicion. “Technically,” I said, “it’s not an anniversary. We moved in June, not September.”He shrugged. “I wanted to do something nice. Why do you always have to question everything?”I inspected the red cellophane twisting around the stems. It still had the sticker from the convenience store. Who bought roses at a convenience store? For a man who liked expensive cars and top-of-the-line wheelbarrows, Jeffrey could be so...frugal.Immediately, I chastised myself. He’d made an effort, hadn’t he? It was the thought that counted, right? The white Icebergs couldn’t compare to the pink-and-white Ginger Hills that grew in my garden, but they were still pretty, in a frugal kind of way.I smiled. “Thank you for the flowers.”“We’ve had some good years, haven’t we?”“And we’ll have many more. We have so much to look forward to, a whole life of beautiful moments.” My God, I thought, I sound like a sappy greeting card. And then I added, “We have so much to be thankful for.” That, at least, I believed. We had Claire.The waiter appeared with the menus and took Jeffrey’s order for wine. A pop! erupted from the table next to ours, where a waiter had uncorked a bottle of champagne. After the fizz settled and the glasses were filled, the party toasted a man and woman who looked no more than twelve but had to have been at least twenty-one, since they were both drinking. The couple kissed, everyone clapped, and the couple kissed again.I smiled again at Jeffrey. I wanted to talk about the good years and what we had to be thankful for, but his mood had shifted. His gaze darted from the saguaros to the misters, to the old man and his trophy girlfriend, to the waiters bustling in and out, to anyone but me. **********************************************************************************
Author Bio:
Elissa Ambrose was born in Montreal, Canada. After graduating from McGill University with a degree in English, for some strange reason she embarked on a career in computer programming. Seventeen years later, after an amicable parting with technology, she returned to her first love—the written word. First she was an editor at a company that produced educational material, and later at a literary magazine. Prior to Sex, Lies & Hot Tubs, she published four romances with Harlequin and several short stories. Along the road to publication, she raised two daughters. She and her husband now live in Arizona. (Yes, it’s hot. But it’s a dry heat, remember? And you can’t shovel heat.) Connect with Elissa:
Website: http://www.ElissaAmbrose.comFacebook:http://www.facebook.com/Sex.Lies.HotTubsTwitter:@ElissaAmbrosehttps://twitter.com/ElissaAmbroseGoodreads:http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13579414-sex-lies-hot-tubs Buy the Book!
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sex-Lies-Hot-Tubs-ebook/dp/B0079OSS2MBarnes &Noble:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/elissa-ambroseiTunes:http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sex-lies-hot-tubs/id543138838?mt=11
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?I taught myself to read from comic books when I was four years old, and it was as natural as breathing that writing would follow. But I didn’t read those comics for the action; I was intrigued by their concepts. What was there before time? Why am I here? Do superheroes sweat? As a result, stories of my own began to unfold in my head. Suddenly what happened to Dick and Jane, whether or not they lived happily ever after and what occurred in the interim, took precedence over the lofty concepts of life, the universe and everything. But I wrote only for myself. It wasn’t until decades later that I began to consider writing as something I could do for an audience. My daughter submitted a short story I’d written to a literary journal, they published it, and that was the beginning of it all.How would you describe your books?Life with a quirky slant. It’s how I see the world.What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?The first draft. The story has already been told—albeit, it’s all in my head—and I don’t feel like telling it again. If I were one of those writers who write on the fly, that dreaded first draft wouldn’t feel so tedious, as I’d be figuring it out for the first time as I write. Maybe it’s because I used to be a programmer or maybe it’s the way I’m wired, but I need to have a plan before I dive into Chapter One. It’s the rewriting I love—the revising, the shaping, the editing. For me, that’s where the magic happens. That’s where the story really comes to life.What are your favorite genres to read?Women’s fiction, science fiction, mystery, literary, YA, cereal boxes—just about anything, really. Though I have to admit, I’m not a big fan of high fantasy. Seriously, what’s with all those apostrophes?What do you want readers to take away from your story?If a story has reached you in any way, whether it has made you question something you’ve always believed in or reaffirm what you’ve always known, if you have seen yourself in one of the characters and come away feeling inspired, renewed, or simply validated, then the writer has triumphed. But then, most writers aren’t Steinbeck. Here’s the thing. If I can entertain you, if for just a few hours you can forget your problems and enjoy the ride, if you can remember my story the day after you’ve read it, then I’ve succeeded. As for this story in particular, I’d like to leave you with this thought: Do you know where your husband is? (Just kidding. Maybe.)How important do you think social media is for authors these days?These days, a writer has to wear many hats. Even in traditional publishing, much of the marketing has become the responsibility of the author. With the ongoing transition from print to digital, it only makes sense for authors to have a presence in the digital world. Also, I think it’s wonderful that readers can connect so easily with their favorite authors. Problem is, social media is evolving so rapidly, it’s hard to define exactly what it is. Sometimes it gets a little noisy. It can also be addicting. It’s easy for an author to get bogged down and forget her true mission—to tell a story. I love the interaction, but when I’m in the throes of a story, I have to wear my other hat and turn down the volume.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?Read and write every day. Also, you never know when your muse will come knocking, so always carry a notepad. It’ll never run low on battery and you don’t have to plug it in.
**Excerpt**
The restaurant was pretentious and pricey, and I was prepared to hate it. The maître d’ led me to a table in back, but it was too dark and the air-conditioning too cold, so I asked for a table outside. I followed him through a glass doorway. The view from the terrace was festive with saguaro cacti wrapped in strands of twinkling lights, and the fog from the misters, cooling the air with a fine spray, added an aura of romance. I began to unwind.At a table near the glass door, a man of about seventy was holding the hand of a much younger woman. I figured he was a widower. A pinstriped shirt with a plaid tie suggested he needed someone to take care of him. Though I doubted he’d stay single for long. A man loses his mate of forty or more years, and six months later he finds another love of his life. Or rather, she finds him. Like a shark, she can smell his rich bleeding heart an ocean away.I ordered a glass of white wine and pondered this some more. Men who start over aren’t always alone. Some are husbands who simply wake up one morning and decide they want a new life. They want their space, they want their freedom, yada, yada. But like the widowers, six months later they find the new love of their lives. Then there are the repeaters, like my father. He found the new love of his life many times over before he finally moved out.Jeffrey arrived twenty minutes after my third glass of wine. “I stopped for these,” he explained, handing me a bouquet. “One rose for each year we’ve lived in Scottsdale. Can you believe it’s been twelve years?”Twelve years since he insisted we upgrade our suburb as well as our house. Twelve years since we sold the small bungalow in Mesa, our first house together. Actually, it was twelve years and three months. I regarded the bouquet with suspicion. “Technically,” I said, “it’s not an anniversary. We moved in June, not September.”He shrugged. “I wanted to do something nice. Why do you always have to question everything?”I inspected the red cellophane twisting around the stems. It still had the sticker from the convenience store. Who bought roses at a convenience store? For a man who liked expensive cars and top-of-the-line wheelbarrows, Jeffrey could be so...frugal.Immediately, I chastised myself. He’d made an effort, hadn’t he? It was the thought that counted, right? The white Icebergs couldn’t compare to the pink-and-white Ginger Hills that grew in my garden, but they were still pretty, in a frugal kind of way.I smiled. “Thank you for the flowers.”“We’ve had some good years, haven’t we?”“And we’ll have many more. We have so much to look forward to, a whole life of beautiful moments.” My God, I thought, I sound like a sappy greeting card. And then I added, “We have so much to be thankful for.” That, at least, I believed. We had Claire.The waiter appeared with the menus and took Jeffrey’s order for wine. A pop! erupted from the table next to ours, where a waiter had uncorked a bottle of champagne. After the fizz settled and the glasses were filled, the party toasted a man and woman who looked no more than twelve but had to have been at least twenty-one, since they were both drinking. The couple kissed, everyone clapped, and the couple kissed again.I smiled again at Jeffrey. I wanted to talk about the good years and what we had to be thankful for, but his mood had shifted. His gaze darted from the saguaros to the misters, to the old man and his trophy girlfriend, to the waiters bustling in and out, to anyone but me. **********************************************************************************
Author Bio:
Elissa Ambrose was born in Montreal, Canada. After graduating from McGill University with a degree in English, for some strange reason she embarked on a career in computer programming. Seventeen years later, after an amicable parting with technology, she returned to her first love—the written word. First she was an editor at a company that produced educational material, and later at a literary magazine. Prior to Sex, Lies & Hot Tubs, she published four romances with Harlequin and several short stories. Along the road to publication, she raised two daughters. She and her husband now live in Arizona. (Yes, it’s hot. But it’s a dry heat, remember? And you can’t shovel heat.) Connect with Elissa:
Website: http://www.ElissaAmbrose.comFacebook:http://www.facebook.com/Sex.Lies.HotTubsTwitter:@ElissaAmbrosehttps://twitter.com/ElissaAmbroseGoodreads:http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13579414-sex-lies-hot-tubs Buy the Book!
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Sex-Lies-Hot-Tubs-ebook/dp/B0079OSS2MBarnes &Noble:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/elissa-ambroseiTunes:http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/sex-lies-hot-tubs/id543138838?mt=11
October 17, 2012
Interview and Excerpt: Living in Glass Houses by Zoe McNight
Thanks to Zoe McNight for stopping by with a Q&A and excerpt from Living in Glass Houses. Please visit her tour page on CLP Blog Tours for more information!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?As long as I can remember, I had a penchant for story-telling. But because I was shy, I wrote my stories down. In grammar school I wrote short stories in between classes. I spent my entire junior year of high school writing a novel, but it never made its way out of my 5 subject notebook. I knew then that writing was my passion.
How would you describe your books?Contemporary women’s fiction drizzled with wit, humor, and suspense.
Why was Living in Glass Houses a book you wanted to write?I’m fascinated with psychology. I love to learn what makes people tick and I’ve discovered that if there’s one thing that brings out the best and worst in people, it’s relationships. I’ve witnessed some of the most rational, level-headed people I know make some of the most unpredictable decisions when it came to affairs of their heart (myself included). And I thought it would be interesting (and educational) to chronicle spin-offs of these stories in a novel. Blair, Jonathan and Elle are composite characters based on people I know.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?Editing. I tend to second guess myself and am always looking for a better way to say something, so I’m constantly re-writing and it stalls me from moving ahead. I’ve since learned that not every sentence, paragraph or chapter will be perfect. At a certain point you just have to move on.Perfection is the enemy of good.
What are your favorite genres to read? Chick-lit, mysteries, and historical fiction.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?That sometimes good people make bad decisions and that life is almost never black and white, there are many shades of gray.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days? I think social media is paramount. Not only for authors, but for any business, social figure or even politician. It’s the way that people are getting their information. Not having a Facebook page or a Twitter account makes one conspicuously absent.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?If you have something to say, then say it. Do not wait for the right time or to take any special classes or for inspiration to strike. Just do it. The skills, polishing and tools will all come in time. Just make sure and get your ideas down on paper. And write everyday if you can. You’d be surprised what brilliance you can come up with on a whim.
**Excerpt**
Hours later Blair sat on the balcony enveloped by the warm Indian-summer air. A wine glass dangled between her fingers and an empty merlot bottle sat at her feet. She wished she could cry, anything to release the frustration, but she had no more tears. The well had run dry. “Hey, baby.” She turned to find Vaughn standing in the doorway. She rolled her eyes and turned back around. He approached her, then swept her jet-black hair to the side, leaned over her shoulder and whispered, “I’m sorry.”She responded with a sip of wine.“I didn’t mean those things I said.” Lies. It wasn’t the first time he’d berated her and it wouldn’t be the last.“I was just stressed out about the whole situation, but you’ll be happy to know Stu got to the bottom of it and she retracted her story. He says I have a case for slander if I want to pursue it.”“Libel.” “What?”“You mean libel, not slander.”“Whatever. I have a case if I want to pursue it, but I don’t. I’m just glad it’s over.”“Me too,” she said, her voice void of emotion.“So, we’re good now?” It was more of a statement than a question. “Change your clothes. I’m taking you to dinner. Oh, and I have a little something for you.” He pointed to the dresser. On top sat a small black box adorned with a silver bow. “Go ahead and get ready. We have reservations for eight-thirty. I’m going to take a shower.”An hour later they sat across from each other at his favorite Thai restaurant—the one she hated. The distraught, tear-stricken face she’d worn only an hour before was replaced by the demure, attractive one she always presented to the world. MAC had done wonders to conceal the dark circles beneath her almond-shaped eyes. Her lashes fluttered when she was complimented by the owner, who always made it his business to greet them after they’d been seated. No one was the wiser as the handsome couple exchanged strained banter over the dim candlelight.“What a beautiful bracelet, Mrs. Hill,” the server gushed. “You’re a very lucky woman.”Vaughn beamed. Blair offered her best artificial smile. “That I am.”It was that night Blair promised herself she would never again be made to feel so worthless. The time had come for her to let go of the fantasy and accept her marriage for what it really was—an arrangement, a business deal, a meeting of minds. Their vows clearly meant nothing. She’d finally gotten the message. It was loud. It was clear.
The memory of that day was one she turned to whenever her guilt got the best of her. It silenced her conscience and justified her behavior. Her excitement grew when she glimpsed her favorite sign, Pennsylvania Welcomes You. Just a little while longer and she’d be in Philadelphia where Dylan would extinguish the final embers of her guilt. ********************************************************************************** Author Bio:
Zoe McKnight was born and raised in New York City. When she’s not writing she can be found reading or satisfying her reality show fix. Her two favorite things are eggnog lattes and the love of her neurotic ten-year old cocker spaniel. Living in Glass Houses is her first novel. The sequel, ‘Til Our Lies Do Us Part, will be released later this Fall.
Connect with Zoe! http://www.zmcknight.com/Home.html Buy the Book! AmazonKindleiTunes Nook Sony
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?As long as I can remember, I had a penchant for story-telling. But because I was shy, I wrote my stories down. In grammar school I wrote short stories in between classes. I spent my entire junior year of high school writing a novel, but it never made its way out of my 5 subject notebook. I knew then that writing was my passion.
How would you describe your books?Contemporary women’s fiction drizzled with wit, humor, and suspense.
Why was Living in Glass Houses a book you wanted to write?I’m fascinated with psychology. I love to learn what makes people tick and I’ve discovered that if there’s one thing that brings out the best and worst in people, it’s relationships. I’ve witnessed some of the most rational, level-headed people I know make some of the most unpredictable decisions when it came to affairs of their heart (myself included). And I thought it would be interesting (and educational) to chronicle spin-offs of these stories in a novel. Blair, Jonathan and Elle are composite characters based on people I know.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?Editing. I tend to second guess myself and am always looking for a better way to say something, so I’m constantly re-writing and it stalls me from moving ahead. I’ve since learned that not every sentence, paragraph or chapter will be perfect. At a certain point you just have to move on.Perfection is the enemy of good.
What are your favorite genres to read? Chick-lit, mysteries, and historical fiction.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?That sometimes good people make bad decisions and that life is almost never black and white, there are many shades of gray.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days? I think social media is paramount. Not only for authors, but for any business, social figure or even politician. It’s the way that people are getting their information. Not having a Facebook page or a Twitter account makes one conspicuously absent.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?If you have something to say, then say it. Do not wait for the right time or to take any special classes or for inspiration to strike. Just do it. The skills, polishing and tools will all come in time. Just make sure and get your ideas down on paper. And write everyday if you can. You’d be surprised what brilliance you can come up with on a whim.
**Excerpt**
Hours later Blair sat on the balcony enveloped by the warm Indian-summer air. A wine glass dangled between her fingers and an empty merlot bottle sat at her feet. She wished she could cry, anything to release the frustration, but she had no more tears. The well had run dry. “Hey, baby.” She turned to find Vaughn standing in the doorway. She rolled her eyes and turned back around. He approached her, then swept her jet-black hair to the side, leaned over her shoulder and whispered, “I’m sorry.”She responded with a sip of wine.“I didn’t mean those things I said.” Lies. It wasn’t the first time he’d berated her and it wouldn’t be the last.“I was just stressed out about the whole situation, but you’ll be happy to know Stu got to the bottom of it and she retracted her story. He says I have a case for slander if I want to pursue it.”“Libel.” “What?”“You mean libel, not slander.”“Whatever. I have a case if I want to pursue it, but I don’t. I’m just glad it’s over.”“Me too,” she said, her voice void of emotion.“So, we’re good now?” It was more of a statement than a question. “Change your clothes. I’m taking you to dinner. Oh, and I have a little something for you.” He pointed to the dresser. On top sat a small black box adorned with a silver bow. “Go ahead and get ready. We have reservations for eight-thirty. I’m going to take a shower.”An hour later they sat across from each other at his favorite Thai restaurant—the one she hated. The distraught, tear-stricken face she’d worn only an hour before was replaced by the demure, attractive one she always presented to the world. MAC had done wonders to conceal the dark circles beneath her almond-shaped eyes. Her lashes fluttered when she was complimented by the owner, who always made it his business to greet them after they’d been seated. No one was the wiser as the handsome couple exchanged strained banter over the dim candlelight.“What a beautiful bracelet, Mrs. Hill,” the server gushed. “You’re a very lucky woman.”Vaughn beamed. Blair offered her best artificial smile. “That I am.”It was that night Blair promised herself she would never again be made to feel so worthless. The time had come for her to let go of the fantasy and accept her marriage for what it really was—an arrangement, a business deal, a meeting of minds. Their vows clearly meant nothing. She’d finally gotten the message. It was loud. It was clear.
The memory of that day was one she turned to whenever her guilt got the best of her. It silenced her conscience and justified her behavior. Her excitement grew when she glimpsed her favorite sign, Pennsylvania Welcomes You. Just a little while longer and she’d be in Philadelphia where Dylan would extinguish the final embers of her guilt. ********************************************************************************** Author Bio:
Zoe McKnight was born and raised in New York City. When she’s not writing she can be found reading or satisfying her reality show fix. Her two favorite things are eggnog lattes and the love of her neurotic ten-year old cocker spaniel. Living in Glass Houses is her first novel. The sequel, ‘Til Our Lies Do Us Part, will be released later this Fall.
Connect with Zoe! http://www.zmcknight.com/Home.html Buy the Book! AmazonKindleiTunes Nook Sony
October 16, 2012
Interview with Addison Towne
Thanks to Addison Towne for taking the time to answer some of my interview questions! Please also visit her tour page for Suburban Task Force on CLP Blog Tours for more information!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I have always enjoyed writing. I began keeping a journal when I was seven and it grew from there. Poetry, short stories, songs and screenplays, it didn’t matter. I just had to get it down on paper and out of my head. Then one day I decided to sit down and actually write a book. It was the most fun I’d ever had writing.
How would you describe your books?
Sarcasm wrapped up with action, adventure and real life humor. I enjoy poking fun at myself and use those around me as inspiration for crazy real life scenarios. Having people read the book and relate to it on some level is what I aim for.
Why was Suburban Task Force a book you wanted to write?
There aren’t a lot of real life super hero’s out there for women to relate to these days. We can’t all be Angelina Jolie nor can we be Wonder Woman or Nikita. Not all of us are tall, thin, gorgeous amazon women who fight in heels. My characters take their heels off. They use practical and some not so practical tactics to get through the day and sometimes, that’s just funny.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Taking the idea in my head and getting it down on paper. I type relatively fast, but sometimes my brain is two chapters ahead of where my hands are and the thoughts get jumbled up in the process.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Mystery, Comedy, Female Sleuths, True Crime.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
Woman can band together and make a difference. That love and friendship will get you through the toughest times and that at the end of the day it’s ok to laugh, have a glass of wine and enjoy life.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Very. Without it you can easily become buried under all the great books out there. You have to find your niche and make an impact. You have to devote yourself to the idea that you are a marketing machine as much as you are a writer.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Let your friends and family give you honest feedback. Try, try and try again. Most importantly, go out and buy yourself a thick skin suit because at the end of the day you can’t please everyone. You have to just know in your heart that what you’re attempting is something most people would never have the guts to do. ********************************************************************************** Author Bio:
Addison Towne is a lover of fashion, foes and fun! She was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her background in television, film and marketing gave her the motivation and passion to write Suburban Task Force. As a entrepreneur she has spent the last ten years developing brands and products that have earned her awards and recognition ranging from a television Emmy to a CEO of the year Women Making a Difference nod.
You can reach her via email at AddisonTowne@gmail.com. She is currently working on the next Suburban Task Force series and looks forward to reader input.
Connect with Addison!
AddisonTowne@gmail.com
Www.suburbantaskforce.com
Www.addisontowne.com
@addisontowne (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/addison.towne(Facebook)
http://pinterest.com/addisontowne/Pinterest (help fill Jade, Suzie and Chloe's Closets with fun stuff!)
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/Suburban-Force-Lydell-Novel-ebook/dp/B0084QDJA0/To purchase on Amazon
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I have always enjoyed writing. I began keeping a journal when I was seven and it grew from there. Poetry, short stories, songs and screenplays, it didn’t matter. I just had to get it down on paper and out of my head. Then one day I decided to sit down and actually write a book. It was the most fun I’d ever had writing.
How would you describe your books?Sarcasm wrapped up with action, adventure and real life humor. I enjoy poking fun at myself and use those around me as inspiration for crazy real life scenarios. Having people read the book and relate to it on some level is what I aim for.
Why was Suburban Task Force a book you wanted to write?
There aren’t a lot of real life super hero’s out there for women to relate to these days. We can’t all be Angelina Jolie nor can we be Wonder Woman or Nikita. Not all of us are tall, thin, gorgeous amazon women who fight in heels. My characters take their heels off. They use practical and some not so practical tactics to get through the day and sometimes, that’s just funny.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Taking the idea in my head and getting it down on paper. I type relatively fast, but sometimes my brain is two chapters ahead of where my hands are and the thoughts get jumbled up in the process.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Mystery, Comedy, Female Sleuths, True Crime.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
Woman can band together and make a difference. That love and friendship will get you through the toughest times and that at the end of the day it’s ok to laugh, have a glass of wine and enjoy life.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Very. Without it you can easily become buried under all the great books out there. You have to find your niche and make an impact. You have to devote yourself to the idea that you are a marketing machine as much as you are a writer.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Let your friends and family give you honest feedback. Try, try and try again. Most importantly, go out and buy yourself a thick skin suit because at the end of the day you can’t please everyone. You have to just know in your heart that what you’re attempting is something most people would never have the guts to do. ********************************************************************************** Author Bio:
Addison Towne is a lover of fashion, foes and fun! She was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her background in television, film and marketing gave her the motivation and passion to write Suburban Task Force. As a entrepreneur she has spent the last ten years developing brands and products that have earned her awards and recognition ranging from a television Emmy to a CEO of the year Women Making a Difference nod.
You can reach her via email at AddisonTowne@gmail.com. She is currently working on the next Suburban Task Force series and looks forward to reader input.
Connect with Addison!
AddisonTowne@gmail.com
Www.suburbantaskforce.com
Www.addisontowne.com
@addisontowne (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/addison.towne(Facebook)
http://pinterest.com/addisontowne/Pinterest (help fill Jade, Suzie and Chloe's Closets with fun stuff!)
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/Suburban-Force-Lydell-Novel-ebook/dp/B0084QDJA0/To purchase on Amazon
October 10, 2012
Interview and Excerpt: Sugarfiend by Caroline Burau
Thanks to Caroline Burau for stopping by with a Q&A and excerpt from Sugarfiend. Please visit her tour page on CLP Blog Tours for more information and a giveaway!
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I've always been a writer. My first attempt was an eleven-page "novella" called "The Little Pumpkin" in second grade. Mrs. Lyons thought it was really awesome. As an adult, I've never had any big epiphanies about whether I should be a writer. It's just something I have to do to keep myself from becoming one of those crazy old ladies mumbling stories under her breath on the bus.
How would you describe your books?
My books are very different from each other, but written in the same voice, mine. Answering 911 is a memoir about what it's like to be a dispatcher in the crazy field of emergency services, and how it changed me. Everything in Answering 911 is the gol-darn truth, but some names were changed to protect the innocent, and otherwise. Sugarfiend is fiction, but of course the voice of Estelle is mainly me, just a little crazier, a little bolder, and often plastered. I started Sugarfiend during the book tour for Answering 911 because it felt really great to switch from something so serious to something fun, silly, and fictional. Sugarfiend was a total blast to write. I was almost sorry when I completed it. Almost.
Why was Sugarfiend a book you wanted to write?
I wanted to write Sugarfiend because I had a lot to say about body image, how women punish themselves for their perceived imperfections, and how the diet industry pours gasoline on it all, then makes billions of dollars every year telling us how to put the big fire out. I am a serial dieter, or at least I used to be. I figured the story of a self-loathing, sugar-addicted twenty-something who goes off the deep end would resonate with a lot of women, and it has. Plus a few men, which is awesome.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Writing consistently is the hardest part of the process for me. Second to that is finishing a project. Then, the frosting on top of all that is a nagging fear that my writing is actually HORRIFIC and all the compliments and good wishes have been series of selective hallucinations. Between those three things, it's a wonder I ever get a dang thing done.
What are your favorite genres to read?
I read a lot of memoir and a lot of true crime, old and new. When it comes to fiction, I tend to follow specific authors such as Alice Walker, Tim O'Brien, and George R. R. Martin, and just read everything I can by them, then find someone new. I don't actually read a lot of "chick lit" but when my daughter was in high school, I read the entire Twilight Series with her and LIKED IT. I might lose a friend or two once that gets out.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
When people read Sugarfiend, I want them to get a good laugh and remember that any celebrity, brand, pill, shake or exercise guru who tries to tell you happiness is a firm ass and tiny belly is LYING. Happiness is just happiness, and it's yours if you choose it.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Social media is a terrific tool for writers now, and the best part is that it's free. Take advantage of its free-ness at every opportunity. Use it to meet other writers. Use it to promote your books and your blog. Don't, however, spend three hours dorking around on Facebook when you should be writing. I have personally NEVER done this (this morning).
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is that writing for a living doesn't make you a writer. Being a writer makes you a writer. Write every day. It doesn't matter if you have to work some other silly job to pay rent; most of us do. Be willing to accept criticism, learn from your mistakes, and don't think it's all going to be sunshine and Pushcart Prizes. The good writers make it look effortless, but it's not, which is why everybody and his sister thinks they can write.
**Excerpt**
I slept through Roatan. Just as well. Somebody told me there’s a sand flea issue on the beaches. That’s all I need to add to my resume: Alcoholic, sugar addict, sand flea carrier. Maybe there’s a meeting for that out here on the swinging seas.I got up around 2 p.m., took a long shower in our tiny stall, and rummaged around for something to wear. The TV was still on of course, and some little spa-tart with purple fingernails was giving a demonstration on how to perform your own, at-home Caviar Facial. She smeared a blob of black mess onto an eager old woman’s face while others looked on, nodding feverishly about the healing benefits of fish eggs.Fish eggs. Fingernails. Paris Hilton sunglasses. Who was that girl with Bill? Who cares? I sure as hell don’t. Still. What to wear? After some looking, I found a rather comely sundress I’d forgotten I had: kind of a tie-dyed number with pleats and gatherings all in just the right places to promote maximum sin concealment. I slipped on a pair of strappy leather sandals and checked myself in the mirror. Today, I figured, would be a good day to act human for once. I’d had my little melt-down. I’d said some really fascinatingthings to some basically innocent people, and I’d more than made up for lost drinking time. I’d spent so much time at the sundae bar that the lady behind the counter already knew my name, my cat’s name, and my preferred ratio of hot fudge to scoops of ice cream.Purple fingernails rinsed all the sludge off the old lady’s face, who suddenly beamed like a new bride. “Don’t forget ladies,” spa-tart hissed. “Join Lauren tomorrow at 9:30 for a Detox Seminar in the fitness center! Learn the secret to lasting weight loss once and for all!”I found my brush and turned on Roxanne’s curling iron. I rummaged in her makeup kit for some foundation, some lip gloss. Just for today, I vowed, vaguely remembering the old post-it note affirmations that used to frame my mirror, just for today I will be different. Just for today . . . I’ll act normal.
**Everyone who leaves a comment on Caroline's tour page will be entered to win a $10 Amazon gift card! Anyone who purchases their copy of Sugarfiend before October 15 and sends their receipt to Samantha (at) ChickLitPlus (dot) com, will get five bonus entries.************************************************************************************ Author Bio:
Caroline Burau is a blogger, two-time author, and a 911 dispatcher. Her first book, Answering 911: Life in the Hot Seat was a Reader's Digest Editor's Choice and a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award.When she's not writing or obsessing about writing, she's spending her royalties on yoga classes, strappy sport tops, and used books. She lives with her husband, two geriatric cats, and an excitable yellow lab in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
Connect with Caroline!
http://www.carolineburau.com/
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615595200/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwcarolinebu-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0615595200
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I've always been a writer. My first attempt was an eleven-page "novella" called "The Little Pumpkin" in second grade. Mrs. Lyons thought it was really awesome. As an adult, I've never had any big epiphanies about whether I should be a writer. It's just something I have to do to keep myself from becoming one of those crazy old ladies mumbling stories under her breath on the bus.
How would you describe your books?
My books are very different from each other, but written in the same voice, mine. Answering 911 is a memoir about what it's like to be a dispatcher in the crazy field of emergency services, and how it changed me. Everything in Answering 911 is the gol-darn truth, but some names were changed to protect the innocent, and otherwise. Sugarfiend is fiction, but of course the voice of Estelle is mainly me, just a little crazier, a little bolder, and often plastered. I started Sugarfiend during the book tour for Answering 911 because it felt really great to switch from something so serious to something fun, silly, and fictional. Sugarfiend was a total blast to write. I was almost sorry when I completed it. Almost.
Why was Sugarfiend a book you wanted to write?
I wanted to write Sugarfiend because I had a lot to say about body image, how women punish themselves for their perceived imperfections, and how the diet industry pours gasoline on it all, then makes billions of dollars every year telling us how to put the big fire out. I am a serial dieter, or at least I used to be. I figured the story of a self-loathing, sugar-addicted twenty-something who goes off the deep end would resonate with a lot of women, and it has. Plus a few men, which is awesome.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Writing consistently is the hardest part of the process for me. Second to that is finishing a project. Then, the frosting on top of all that is a nagging fear that my writing is actually HORRIFIC and all the compliments and good wishes have been series of selective hallucinations. Between those three things, it's a wonder I ever get a dang thing done.
What are your favorite genres to read?
I read a lot of memoir and a lot of true crime, old and new. When it comes to fiction, I tend to follow specific authors such as Alice Walker, Tim O'Brien, and George R. R. Martin, and just read everything I can by them, then find someone new. I don't actually read a lot of "chick lit" but when my daughter was in high school, I read the entire Twilight Series with her and LIKED IT. I might lose a friend or two once that gets out.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
When people read Sugarfiend, I want them to get a good laugh and remember that any celebrity, brand, pill, shake or exercise guru who tries to tell you happiness is a firm ass and tiny belly is LYING. Happiness is just happiness, and it's yours if you choose it.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Social media is a terrific tool for writers now, and the best part is that it's free. Take advantage of its free-ness at every opportunity. Use it to meet other writers. Use it to promote your books and your blog. Don't, however, spend three hours dorking around on Facebook when you should be writing. I have personally NEVER done this (this morning).
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is that writing for a living doesn't make you a writer. Being a writer makes you a writer. Write every day. It doesn't matter if you have to work some other silly job to pay rent; most of us do. Be willing to accept criticism, learn from your mistakes, and don't think it's all going to be sunshine and Pushcart Prizes. The good writers make it look effortless, but it's not, which is why everybody and his sister thinks they can write.
**Excerpt**
I slept through Roatan. Just as well. Somebody told me there’s a sand flea issue on the beaches. That’s all I need to add to my resume: Alcoholic, sugar addict, sand flea carrier. Maybe there’s a meeting for that out here on the swinging seas.I got up around 2 p.m., took a long shower in our tiny stall, and rummaged around for something to wear. The TV was still on of course, and some little spa-tart with purple fingernails was giving a demonstration on how to perform your own, at-home Caviar Facial. She smeared a blob of black mess onto an eager old woman’s face while others looked on, nodding feverishly about the healing benefits of fish eggs.Fish eggs. Fingernails. Paris Hilton sunglasses. Who was that girl with Bill? Who cares? I sure as hell don’t. Still. What to wear? After some looking, I found a rather comely sundress I’d forgotten I had: kind of a tie-dyed number with pleats and gatherings all in just the right places to promote maximum sin concealment. I slipped on a pair of strappy leather sandals and checked myself in the mirror. Today, I figured, would be a good day to act human for once. I’d had my little melt-down. I’d said some really fascinatingthings to some basically innocent people, and I’d more than made up for lost drinking time. I’d spent so much time at the sundae bar that the lady behind the counter already knew my name, my cat’s name, and my preferred ratio of hot fudge to scoops of ice cream.Purple fingernails rinsed all the sludge off the old lady’s face, who suddenly beamed like a new bride. “Don’t forget ladies,” spa-tart hissed. “Join Lauren tomorrow at 9:30 for a Detox Seminar in the fitness center! Learn the secret to lasting weight loss once and for all!”I found my brush and turned on Roxanne’s curling iron. I rummaged in her makeup kit for some foundation, some lip gloss. Just for today, I vowed, vaguely remembering the old post-it note affirmations that used to frame my mirror, just for today I will be different. Just for today . . . I’ll act normal.
**Everyone who leaves a comment on Caroline's tour page will be entered to win a $10 Amazon gift card! Anyone who purchases their copy of Sugarfiend before October 15 and sends their receipt to Samantha (at) ChickLitPlus (dot) com, will get five bonus entries.************************************************************************************ Author Bio:
Caroline Burau is a blogger, two-time author, and a 911 dispatcher. Her first book, Answering 911: Life in the Hot Seat was a Reader's Digest Editor's Choice and a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award.When she's not writing or obsessing about writing, she's spending her royalties on yoga classes, strappy sport tops, and used books. She lives with her husband, two geriatric cats, and an excitable yellow lab in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
Connect with Caroline!
http://www.carolineburau.com/
Buy the Book!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615595200/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwcarolinebu-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0615595200
