Jennifer Anderson's Blog, page 15
December 3, 2012
What I've learned from NaNo 2012...
Now that NaNo is done and I have an unedited manuscript waiting for me to dive in, I thought I'd take a few minutes and use my words for something other than meeting a quota.
2012 proved to be a tough year for me. Time was an issue as well as creativity flow. Unlike last year, I didn't have a new baby who demanded my attention. I also worked a full time job along with my part-time marketing work where as this year I don't have a full time job outside of the home but my work load at TMP has increased. As you can see, running a house and loving a new born proved to be a hurdle.
In November 2011, I had a short story published as well as 3 novellas contracted for release in 2012. So even though I was considered published, I was very new to the game and participating in NaNo for the first time, I did exactly as I was told and threw my words down without looking back. This year, I found myself constantly wanting to formulate perfect sentences in my head instead of purging. I blame this on the publishing. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't change my publishing status for all the Twinkies in the world, I'm simply admitting that I wanted my NaNo to be too perfect. NaNo's aren't supposed to be perfect. They're supposed to be raw. Full of mistakes but jam packed with idea and promise.
So, what have I learned from this year. First, no more babies! Second, attack this project with fresh, new, naive eyes. I need to approach 2013 NaNo as if I were a newbie. Where the ideas are bursting from my brain that my hands fly across the keys so fast I don't have time to stare at the word counter. Where every red or blue underline doesn't keep me from attaining my daily goal in the time I've allotted myself. Because just like this year, next year I'll still be a mother of 3, working part-time and still published.
How did NaNo go for you this year?
2012 proved to be a tough year for me. Time was an issue as well as creativity flow. Unlike last year, I didn't have a new baby who demanded my attention. I also worked a full time job along with my part-time marketing work where as this year I don't have a full time job outside of the home but my work load at TMP has increased. As you can see, running a house and loving a new born proved to be a hurdle.
In November 2011, I had a short story published as well as 3 novellas contracted for release in 2012. So even though I was considered published, I was very new to the game and participating in NaNo for the first time, I did exactly as I was told and threw my words down without looking back. This year, I found myself constantly wanting to formulate perfect sentences in my head instead of purging. I blame this on the publishing. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't change my publishing status for all the Twinkies in the world, I'm simply admitting that I wanted my NaNo to be too perfect. NaNo's aren't supposed to be perfect. They're supposed to be raw. Full of mistakes but jam packed with idea and promise.
So, what have I learned from this year. First, no more babies! Second, attack this project with fresh, new, naive eyes. I need to approach 2013 NaNo as if I were a newbie. Where the ideas are bursting from my brain that my hands fly across the keys so fast I don't have time to stare at the word counter. Where every red or blue underline doesn't keep me from attaining my daily goal in the time I've allotted myself. Because just like this year, next year I'll still be a mother of 3, working part-time and still published.
How did NaNo go for you this year?
November 21, 2012
The Next Big Thing
Janie Emaus invited me to blog hop with her this week. You can catch her over at The Boomer Rants.
· Ten Interview Questions for The Next Big Thing:
What is the working title of your book?
My Brother's Wedding
Where did the idea come from for the book?
I'm not really sure. I don't have a brother. I think part of the concept came from an acquisitions meeting we were having at TMP where we were discussing our new category romance line. My boss had put up a mock cover with my name on it but the book was titled The Boy Next Door. And I guess, seeing my name, I thought, I could write a story about a boy next door. But then I put my own twist on it when I gave the idea more thought. What would happen if you had to return home for a family member's wedding after many years of being gone?.
What genre does your book fall under?
Sweet Romance
Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
I love Jennifer Garner and since her role in 13 Again, I can totally see her playing the lead in my story.
What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Alex Daughtry had no idea she'd run into her high school boyfriend, arch enemy, screw up her dress order, table dance at a club or have a roommate in her own bedroom when she agreed to be a bridesmaid in her brother's wedding.
Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
Turquoise Morning Press is expected to release my book in 2013.How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
I'm actually still writing it now for NaNo. Cross your fingers for me.
What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
I'm not a fan of comparison. I'd like to think my story could stand alone. It's like when you query an agent. I never liked the idea of telling the agent that since you like and rep this book, mine is similar. Why would they want to rep a similar book?
Who or What inspired you to write this book?
I love the idea of someone traveling home after being gone for so long. You wonder why they stayed away. What events caused them to put distance between them and family? And what if you threw in an old boyfriend you really never got over. Even better, you're walking down the isle with him.
What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
My story is set in St. Louis, Missouri. The suburb I placed the action in is made up but not some of the landmarks. Also, My Brother's Wedding is one of the first releases from TMP's new line of category romances from out Boutique Collection. Check out the website for more information on releases.
November 7, 2012
NaNo Status Check
So, we're just about a week in NaNo and I have to ask. How's it goin'? Are you on track? Are the words flying from your head to computer?
Or, are they not flowing? Do you want to give up? Are you lost?
First off, don't stop. Keep writing. Especially if this is your first try; keep going. Even if you don't make it to the end or come up short, at least you tried and know what to do differently next time.
If your story is twisting and turning and your not sure what the heck is going on, stop for a minute and write out a short outline or bullet points. I get it. I'm the biggest pantser there is but I've also learned that sometimes you need to write a few details down. I'm not talking Roman numerals but jot some thoughts or timeline ideas on paper. You'll soon see the benefits.
I will admit I'm not where I was last year at this point. I'm still on track to finish on time but last year, I was ahead of the game which came in handy around the long holiday weekend (and the turkey coma I was in for a few days). Day 1 in 2011, I'd written 5K words. Now, I haven't hit 10K yet (plan to today and surpass it). Maybe it's the baby. Or the kids are busy. Or my job takes more of my time. *shrugs* Or it's all three.
Either way. I'm not giving up. I have a plan and I will finish.
So be like that ant. Have high hopes!
Or, are they not flowing? Do you want to give up? Are you lost?
First off, don't stop. Keep writing. Especially if this is your first try; keep going. Even if you don't make it to the end or come up short, at least you tried and know what to do differently next time.
If your story is twisting and turning and your not sure what the heck is going on, stop for a minute and write out a short outline or bullet points. I get it. I'm the biggest pantser there is but I've also learned that sometimes you need to write a few details down. I'm not talking Roman numerals but jot some thoughts or timeline ideas on paper. You'll soon see the benefits.
I will admit I'm not where I was last year at this point. I'm still on track to finish on time but last year, I was ahead of the game which came in handy around the long holiday weekend (and the turkey coma I was in for a few days). Day 1 in 2011, I'd written 5K words. Now, I haven't hit 10K yet (plan to today and surpass it). Maybe it's the baby. Or the kids are busy. Or my job takes more of my time. *shrugs* Or it's all three.
Either way. I'm not giving up. I have a plan and I will finish.
So be like that ant. Have high hopes!
October 31, 2012
Gearing Up for NaNo
It's not like preparing for a marathon or a run. I don't sit at home and see how fast I can type in an hour or how many coherent words I can write in a day.
No, but I am working to clear my head of other projects so I can focus on this one.
Currently, I'm finishing edits on a book in order to shoot it off to my editor. I'm writing a few blog posts so I don't leave everyone hanging for a month. Basically, getting out the words now before I need to horde them for my NaNo.
I also like to make sure my music playlist is current or at least reflects the mood I hope to achieve with the book. However, sometimes the music creates a mind of its own with my writing, as you may already know. Certain songs feel one way and then another.
You may want to stock up on the writing snacks and coffee. Or whatever you drink to get by. If you have to pull a late night to meet your word total for the day, caffeine is your friend. I'm lucky this year as I'll be writing in the day, as along as the baby cooperates (which she's not today!).
I've asked this before, but are you a first time NaNo-er? If not, what do you do right before you write? Any tips?
Good luck!
No, but I am working to clear my head of other projects so I can focus on this one.
Currently, I'm finishing edits on a book in order to shoot it off to my editor. I'm writing a few blog posts so I don't leave everyone hanging for a month. Basically, getting out the words now before I need to horde them for my NaNo.
I also like to make sure my music playlist is current or at least reflects the mood I hope to achieve with the book. However, sometimes the music creates a mind of its own with my writing, as you may already know. Certain songs feel one way and then another.
You may want to stock up on the writing snacks and coffee. Or whatever you drink to get by. If you have to pull a late night to meet your word total for the day, caffeine is your friend. I'm lucky this year as I'll be writing in the day, as along as the baby cooperates (which she's not today!).
I've asked this before, but are you a first time NaNo-er? If not, what do you do right before you write? Any tips?
Good luck!
October 29, 2012
Cover Reveal!
I'm not sure about you, but I've had a full weekend. Dinner with friends on two different nights (both were tapas, too), cleaned the house (that wasn't fun) and cooked a great meal on Sunday. Then, my publisher sent me mock-ups for Queen Mean, Book 3 in the Honey Creek Royalty series.
I couldn't have asked for a better cover. Seriously.
This book was a bit hard to narrow down what the cover should show. You want to entice but not give too much away. You want to have some similarity with the other books without looking the same. Each of the books can stand alone. It's like getting a new hair cut. You want to look different but not so much no one recognizes you.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
I couldn't have asked for a better cover. Seriously.
This book was a bit hard to narrow down what the cover should show. You want to entice but not give too much away. You want to have some similarity with the other books without looking the same. Each of the books can stand alone. It's like getting a new hair cut. You want to look different but not so much no one recognizes you.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
October 24, 2012
NaNoWrimo begins in 7 days!
I love how the NaNoWrimo website has a counter reminding participants when it begins. Honestly, how could we forget.
Like last year, I'm participating. Yikes! I know. What am I thinking? Didn't I just have a baby? Am I not in the process of some major work for TMP? Have I lost my mind?
Absolutely yes to all questions.
I can't help it. There's something about signing up and committing myself to this event that motivates me. And this year, I've roped a good writer bestie into trying it again. *looks at Julie Anne Lindsey*
Whatever happened to my NaNo from last year, you ask. Well, nothing except it's gathering computer dust. But don't worry. I have plans for that novel that time hasn't allowed me to finish it up yet.
What's going to make this year different? Easy. I've signed a contract stating that I will have a finished manuscript that will be ready for edits next year. Double Yikes!
Never fear because I'm not. Unlike last year, I've outlined (gasps) this novel out which is something I never do. Ever!
But the main reason I'm jazzed to participate this year is because I love the creative process of writing. I love throwing my words to paper and seeing what happens and lately I haven't allowed myself any writing time. I've been busy editing books due out this year and next.
Oh yeah, and there was that pregnancy thing which sucked my creative juices!
Are you doing NaNo this year? If so, how are you feeling? Is it your first time? Or are you an old pro and can offer some tips for those of us still figuring it all out.
I'd love to hear from you. I also hope to keep you current on my progress. And sent me a message or leave me one and let us know how you're doing. After all, we could all use a little encouragement during those days in the middle when the end seems so far away.
Like last year, I'm participating. Yikes! I know. What am I thinking? Didn't I just have a baby? Am I not in the process of some major work for TMP? Have I lost my mind?
Absolutely yes to all questions.
I can't help it. There's something about signing up and committing myself to this event that motivates me. And this year, I've roped a good writer bestie into trying it again. *looks at Julie Anne Lindsey*
Whatever happened to my NaNo from last year, you ask. Well, nothing except it's gathering computer dust. But don't worry. I have plans for that novel that time hasn't allowed me to finish it up yet.
What's going to make this year different? Easy. I've signed a contract stating that I will have a finished manuscript that will be ready for edits next year. Double Yikes!
Never fear because I'm not. Unlike last year, I've outlined (gasps) this novel out which is something I never do. Ever!
But the main reason I'm jazzed to participate this year is because I love the creative process of writing. I love throwing my words to paper and seeing what happens and lately I haven't allowed myself any writing time. I've been busy editing books due out this year and next.
Oh yeah, and there was that pregnancy thing which sucked my creative juices!
Are you doing NaNo this year? If so, how are you feeling? Is it your first time? Or are you an old pro and can offer some tips for those of us still figuring it all out.
I'd love to hear from you. I also hope to keep you current on my progress. And sent me a message or leave me one and let us know how you're doing. After all, we could all use a little encouragement during those days in the middle when the end seems so far away.
October 5, 2012
Book Nibbles
Long time, no see. To kick off my return, I've got Meant To Be by Karen Stivali on Book Nibbles today.
Sometimes you’re already committed to the wrong person when fate finally brings you the right one.
When NYU professor Daniel Gardner’s career-obsessed wife convinces him to move to the suburbs, he hopes it’s a first step toward starting the family he longs to have. Instead of domestic bliss he finds his neighbor, Marienne Valeti. She loves her freelance design job, but must contend with a growing sense of isolation created by her husband’s indifference. A penchant for good books, bad movies, and Marienne’s to-die-for brownies sparks a powerful bond between them. Passion simmers, but they resist its lure, surrendering only in the seclusion of their minds. Their friendship helps them weather every hardship, from divorce to widowhood, leaving them both secretly wondering if it can survive a first kiss.
My couple of cents:I will admit that I'm not much for Women's Fiction. To be honest, I don't think I've ever tried reading one but I've heard nothing but wonderful things about Karen's first Women's Fiction novel. As a writer, I love it when another writer steps out of their normal genre and tries something new. I will be adding this book to my TBR list for sure, along with some of her other titles.
Here's a link to a review from Karen's recent blog tour.
Sometimes you’re already committed to the wrong person when fate finally brings you the right one.
When NYU professor Daniel Gardner’s career-obsessed wife convinces him to move to the suburbs, he hopes it’s a first step toward starting the family he longs to have. Instead of domestic bliss he finds his neighbor, Marienne Valeti. She loves her freelance design job, but must contend with a growing sense of isolation created by her husband’s indifference. A penchant for good books, bad movies, and Marienne’s to-die-for brownies sparks a powerful bond between them. Passion simmers, but they resist its lure, surrendering only in the seclusion of their minds. Their friendship helps them weather every hardship, from divorce to widowhood, leaving them both secretly wondering if it can survive a first kiss.
My couple of cents:I will admit that I'm not much for Women's Fiction. To be honest, I don't think I've ever tried reading one but I've heard nothing but wonderful things about Karen's first Women's Fiction novel. As a writer, I love it when another writer steps out of their normal genre and tries something new. I will be adding this book to my TBR list for sure, along with some of her other titles.
Here's a link to a review from Karen's recent blog tour.
October 1, 2012
Prince Charming has arrived!
No, I don't mean this Prince Charming.
Although, he is quit fetching!
I mean, this Prince Charming!
Book 2 from my Honey Creek Royalty series is here! *shakes pom poms*
Break-ups are never easy, and Sarah O’Connor finds her hard truth from a note. Furious with the delivery and lack of reasoning, she’s forced to carry on with her life, but Josh’s timing couldn’t have been worse. The Ohio State High School Cheerleading competition is around the corner, and instead of focusing on a monumental win, she’s overwhelmed with the recent heartbreak, jealous when she sees him with a new girl, and confused by lingering feelings of taking him back.
Enter Adrian Beale, a face from her past. Soon, she’s more conflicted because while she knows she needs to move on, making Adrian an ideal candidate, Josh won’t go away.
She decides to put both boys aside to focus on winning state, but when she witnesses an scandalous situation, can she erase what she’s seen, or will the images plague her performance? Can Sarah move on from an old love to a new one, and will she carry her squad to victory?
Like with my other HC stories, I really enjoyed bringing this one to life. To me, the story feels real. I mean, who hasn't been dumped? In fact, what are the many ways you've been dumped? Note? Text message? Voice mail?
The idea behind this story actually happened to me and while I didn't react like Sarah did, I wanted to. I'd love to hear about some of your worst break-ups. Did you get even? Or do you believe in Karma and the offender will get what's coming to them.
To get your copy of Prince Charming, either visit Smashwords which has all e-formats available or Amazon. Uploads to Barnes and Noble takes a few days longer.
Although, he is quit fetching!I mean, this Prince Charming!
Book 2 from my Honey Creek Royalty series is here! *shakes pom poms*Break-ups are never easy, and Sarah O’Connor finds her hard truth from a note. Furious with the delivery and lack of reasoning, she’s forced to carry on with her life, but Josh’s timing couldn’t have been worse. The Ohio State High School Cheerleading competition is around the corner, and instead of focusing on a monumental win, she’s overwhelmed with the recent heartbreak, jealous when she sees him with a new girl, and confused by lingering feelings of taking him back.
Enter Adrian Beale, a face from her past. Soon, she’s more conflicted because while she knows she needs to move on, making Adrian an ideal candidate, Josh won’t go away.
She decides to put both boys aside to focus on winning state, but when she witnesses an scandalous situation, can she erase what she’s seen, or will the images plague her performance? Can Sarah move on from an old love to a new one, and will she carry her squad to victory?
Like with my other HC stories, I really enjoyed bringing this one to life. To me, the story feels real. I mean, who hasn't been dumped? In fact, what are the many ways you've been dumped? Note? Text message? Voice mail?
The idea behind this story actually happened to me and while I didn't react like Sarah did, I wanted to. I'd love to hear about some of your worst break-ups. Did you get even? Or do you believe in Karma and the offender will get what's coming to them.
To get your copy of Prince Charming, either visit Smashwords which has all e-formats available or Amazon. Uploads to Barnes and Noble takes a few days longer.
September 12, 2012
Love Blossoms by Julie Anne Lindsey
*Rolls out the red carpet* *Sets up the paparazzi cameras*
I'm more than excited to have my writer bestie, Julie Anne Lindsey on today talking about her latest Honey Creek Release. Love Blossoms is one of my favorite in her Seeds of Love series.
The cover is great but it doesn't do it enough justice for the wonderfully, sweet story inside. I instantly fell in love!
Without further chatting from me, heeeeeeeeeere's Julie!
Love Blossoms in Honey Creek
My second sweet romance novella, Love Blossoms, released last week and I’m all smiles. There’s something intoxicating about this little town. I find myself loitering there often. Honey Creek is the kind of place where anything feels possible. I think that’s why my heart jumps to romance whenever I consider a new story for the imprint. Honey Creek is a small fictitious town in rural Ohio. The scenery is magical in ways only the Midwest can be. The people are a touch old fashioned. They’re devoted to family, country and community. They work the earth. Trade sweat for pay and lThe idea for Love Blossoms came at a friend’s wedding. It was an enchanting event, but my heart broke for the Maid of Honor. She’d planned every last detail to make the day perfect for her friend, and it was. But I found her crying behind the reception hall. Her husband asked her for a divorce. She hadn’t told a soul. That would’ve been a downer on our friend’s wedding and she wasn’t willing to be so selfish. So, she donned her formal wear and a smile. No one ever knew.
Later, her tears wreaked havoc on my imagination, and Jillian Parker was born. As I began Love Blossoms, I learned Jillian suffered a broken heart after a cancelled engagement. She moved on, but shut herself off from the idea of true love. I thought she needed to know she was wrong. True love exists. Men worthy of our hearts are not extinct. In fact, they are sometimes closer than we think.
That’s when I let Jackson Tate roll into town and change Jillian’s mind. This story is a quick trip to the castle. True love in a hurry. I know there are haters. Insta-love is a hot topic right now. But I say sometimes it is what it is. Sometimes there aren’t years of turmoil and breakups and reunions. Sometimes, a heart knows. I hold on to this truth because I choose to believe in the fairytale.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet romantic read with a very happy ending, I hope you’ll visit Honey Creek. The sun is setting, bullfrogs are croaking and the crickets are singing, “Come on.” Sweet tea or hot cider. Fresh summer strawberries or crisp fall apples. You’ll find it there. And taking a trip to Honey Creek is as easy as Amazon : ) I hope to see you there!
Love Blossoms:
Jillian thought she had everything she needed until Jackson walked through her door…
There’s a wedding coming to Honey Creek and the whole town’s preparing for the party. When Jillian Parker agreed to host a few groomsmen at her inn, she had no idea what she was getting into. One of those groomsmen is Jackson Tate, and he’s making her concentration completely impossible. He’s funny, fascinating, frustrating, and leaving in a week. Jillian does not have time for that level of distraction. With Jackson nearby, events to coordinate, a bride to please, and an ex-fiancé to dodge, her peaceful life’s getting crazy fast. With any luck, she’ll survive the week and put the whole thing behind her as soon as possible.
…But not if Jackson has anything to say about it.
Excerpt:
“You used to cause quite a stir,” Jackson said into Jillian’s ear. “I bet you haven’t danced since you came home.”Jillian smiled the demure smile she’d perfected long ago and slipped out into the night beside Danielle. A laugh split her friend’s face, and Danielle hollered into the night sky. Watermelon Crawl boomed from the truck speakers. An outrageous smile spread across Jillian’s face until her cheeks ached. Memories flooded over her, and she was instantly 10 years younger. Her muscles tingled, and the steps came back like a reflex to the sound of her friends’ laughter and the sight of embers floating in the night sky.Her skirt swung left and right along with her toe. Material caught her thighs and infused her with energy. Beth’s squeal blasted out of the kitchen door, and she nearly took Jillian down dashing onto the dirt beside her.“Wooooo!”Nothing mattered. How could anything matter?The small troop of dancers stomped and turned in the firelight. Fireflies and golden embers floated and blinked against the deep navy blue sky. No walls contained them; no neighbors complained about the noise; no traffic sounds interrupted the cricket and bullfrog chorus. There was no more freedom on earth than she had right there. A round of clapping went up as the bodies slowed and ambled in place, laughing and congratulating one another. They still had it.Giggles seasoned the air, and the music changed smoothly to another lifelong favorite. Fishin’ in the Dark . She thought of all the groomsmen planning to night fish before Mrs. Prattle’s punch kicked in the night before. In a flash, men and women sided up ready to twirl and swing in pairs. For a moment, Jillian stepped back to watch the couples, but a massive shadow blocked the light from the fire. Jackson hitched an eyebrow and nodded her way. In the space of a heartbeat, the group was in motion, and so was she.“You haven’t lost it, I suppose,” he said as their bodies came together.She made the most of the time they were apart, enjoying his audience, strutting her stuff. When they met again she said, “You’ve noticed.” “Honey, every man in town’s noticed.” The couples began to swing, but Jillian found her body airborne. Like a feather in the wind, her feet swung left then right of Jackson’s hips. Clapping and hootingensued. No sooner was she grounded again than she began to twirl. The rush of endorphins and joy shot up from her feet to her hair, and her heart threatened to fly herto the moon.
About Julie:
Mother of three, wife to a sane person and Ring Master at the Lindsey Circus. Most days you'll find me online, amped up on caffeine & wielding a book.You can find my blogging about the writer life at Musings from the Slush PileTweeting my crazy at @JulieALindseyReading to soothe my obsession on GoodReadsAnd other books by me on Amazon
Thank you so much Julie!
I'm more than excited to have my writer bestie, Julie Anne Lindsey on today talking about her latest Honey Creek Release. Love Blossoms is one of my favorite in her Seeds of Love series.
The cover is great but it doesn't do it enough justice for the wonderfully, sweet story inside. I instantly fell in love!Without further chatting from me, heeeeeeeeeere's Julie!
Love Blossoms in Honey Creek
My second sweet romance novella, Love Blossoms, released last week and I’m all smiles. There’s something intoxicating about this little town. I find myself loitering there often. Honey Creek is the kind of place where anything feels possible. I think that’s why my heart jumps to romance whenever I consider a new story for the imprint. Honey Creek is a small fictitious town in rural Ohio. The scenery is magical in ways only the Midwest can be. The people are a touch old fashioned. They’re devoted to family, country and community. They work the earth. Trade sweat for pay and lThe idea for Love Blossoms came at a friend’s wedding. It was an enchanting event, but my heart broke for the Maid of Honor. She’d planned every last detail to make the day perfect for her friend, and it was. But I found her crying behind the reception hall. Her husband asked her for a divorce. She hadn’t told a soul. That would’ve been a downer on our friend’s wedding and she wasn’t willing to be so selfish. So, she donned her formal wear and a smile. No one ever knew.
Later, her tears wreaked havoc on my imagination, and Jillian Parker was born. As I began Love Blossoms, I learned Jillian suffered a broken heart after a cancelled engagement. She moved on, but shut herself off from the idea of true love. I thought she needed to know she was wrong. True love exists. Men worthy of our hearts are not extinct. In fact, they are sometimes closer than we think.
That’s when I let Jackson Tate roll into town and change Jillian’s mind. This story is a quick trip to the castle. True love in a hurry. I know there are haters. Insta-love is a hot topic right now. But I say sometimes it is what it is. Sometimes there aren’t years of turmoil and breakups and reunions. Sometimes, a heart knows. I hold on to this truth because I choose to believe in the fairytale.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet romantic read with a very happy ending, I hope you’ll visit Honey Creek. The sun is setting, bullfrogs are croaking and the crickets are singing, “Come on.” Sweet tea or hot cider. Fresh summer strawberries or crisp fall apples. You’ll find it there. And taking a trip to Honey Creek is as easy as Amazon : ) I hope to see you there!
Love Blossoms:
Jillian thought she had everything she needed until Jackson walked through her door…
There’s a wedding coming to Honey Creek and the whole town’s preparing for the party. When Jillian Parker agreed to host a few groomsmen at her inn, she had no idea what she was getting into. One of those groomsmen is Jackson Tate, and he’s making her concentration completely impossible. He’s funny, fascinating, frustrating, and leaving in a week. Jillian does not have time for that level of distraction. With Jackson nearby, events to coordinate, a bride to please, and an ex-fiancé to dodge, her peaceful life’s getting crazy fast. With any luck, she’ll survive the week and put the whole thing behind her as soon as possible.
…But not if Jackson has anything to say about it.
Excerpt:
“You used to cause quite a stir,” Jackson said into Jillian’s ear. “I bet you haven’t danced since you came home.”Jillian smiled the demure smile she’d perfected long ago and slipped out into the night beside Danielle. A laugh split her friend’s face, and Danielle hollered into the night sky. Watermelon Crawl boomed from the truck speakers. An outrageous smile spread across Jillian’s face until her cheeks ached. Memories flooded over her, and she was instantly 10 years younger. Her muscles tingled, and the steps came back like a reflex to the sound of her friends’ laughter and the sight of embers floating in the night sky.Her skirt swung left and right along with her toe. Material caught her thighs and infused her with energy. Beth’s squeal blasted out of the kitchen door, and she nearly took Jillian down dashing onto the dirt beside her.“Wooooo!”Nothing mattered. How could anything matter?The small troop of dancers stomped and turned in the firelight. Fireflies and golden embers floated and blinked against the deep navy blue sky. No walls contained them; no neighbors complained about the noise; no traffic sounds interrupted the cricket and bullfrog chorus. There was no more freedom on earth than she had right there. A round of clapping went up as the bodies slowed and ambled in place, laughing and congratulating one another. They still had it.Giggles seasoned the air, and the music changed smoothly to another lifelong favorite. Fishin’ in the Dark . She thought of all the groomsmen planning to night fish before Mrs. Prattle’s punch kicked in the night before. In a flash, men and women sided up ready to twirl and swing in pairs. For a moment, Jillian stepped back to watch the couples, but a massive shadow blocked the light from the fire. Jackson hitched an eyebrow and nodded her way. In the space of a heartbeat, the group was in motion, and so was she.“You haven’t lost it, I suppose,” he said as their bodies came together.She made the most of the time they were apart, enjoying his audience, strutting her stuff. When they met again she said, “You’ve noticed.” “Honey, every man in town’s noticed.” The couples began to swing, but Jillian found her body airborne. Like a feather in the wind, her feet swung left then right of Jackson’s hips. Clapping and hootingensued. No sooner was she grounded again than she began to twirl. The rush of endorphins and joy shot up from her feet to her hair, and her heart threatened to fly herto the moon.
About Julie:
Mother of three, wife to a sane person and Ring Master at the Lindsey Circus. Most days you'll find me online, amped up on caffeine & wielding a book.You can find my blogging about the writer life at Musings from the Slush PileTweeting my crazy at @JulieALindseyReading to soothe my obsession on GoodReadsAnd other books by me on Amazon
Thank you so much Julie!
September 5, 2012
Maternity Leave...sort of
In case you've been hiding under a rock, I'm having another baby. I'm expected to deliver any day now and trust me, I'm anxious to get this over with. It's true what they say, whoever they are. Pregnancy gets harder each time and as you get older. I'm not saying I'm old. I would never say that.
Ever!
With that said, not the old part, I'm sort of on maternity leave. I here, for now until this kid decides to finally show herself but I'm keeping a low profile. My blog posts will be few, if any until after the baby comes and I can form complete sentences or thoughts.
In the mean time, you can follow me on FB and I'll try to keep you up to date with anything interesting I find in the writing world. My writing plate is a bit full right now. I'm editing Book 3 in my Honey Creek series, waiting for Book 2 to release (September 29th), writing and editing Spider, a YA coming out in March and I'm beta reading for a close friend.
Fortunately, my TMP work has been lightened until after the baby comes but I'm still around. They can't get rid of me.
So until I'm sort of back to normal, I'm sort of on maternity leave. Keep on writing until we speak again!
Ever!
With that said, not the old part, I'm sort of on maternity leave. I here, for now until this kid decides to finally show herself but I'm keeping a low profile. My blog posts will be few, if any until after the baby comes and I can form complete sentences or thoughts.
In the mean time, you can follow me on FB and I'll try to keep you up to date with anything interesting I find in the writing world. My writing plate is a bit full right now. I'm editing Book 3 in my Honey Creek series, waiting for Book 2 to release (September 29th), writing and editing Spider, a YA coming out in March and I'm beta reading for a close friend.
Fortunately, my TMP work has been lightened until after the baby comes but I'm still around. They can't get rid of me.
So until I'm sort of back to normal, I'm sort of on maternity leave. Keep on writing until we speak again!
