Karen Docter's Blog, page 227
December 3, 2015
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Collette Cameron
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s
**AUTHOR SPECIAL**
with COLLETTE CAMERON!
Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, Collette Cameron, and her favorite recipe for GRANDMA CAMERON’S SCOTTISH SHORTBREAD COOKIES!
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HEARTBREAK AND HONOR
Highland Heather Romancing a Scot Series, Book 3
BY COLLETTE CAMERON
Blurb
Abducted by a band of renegade Scots, Highland gypsy Tasara Faas blackens her rescuer’s eye when the charming duke attempts to steal a kiss. Afterward, Tasara learns she’s the long-lost heiress Alexandra Atterberry and is expected to take her place among the elite society she’s always disdained.
Lucan, the Duke of Harcourt, promised his gravely ill mother he’d procure a wife by Christmastide, but intrigued by the feisty lass he saved in Scotland, he finds the haut ton ladies lacking. Spying Alexa at a London ball, he impulsively decides to make the knife-wielding gypsy his bride despite her aversion to him and her determination to return to the Highlands.
The adversary responsible for Alexa’s disappearance as a toddler still covets her fortune and joins forces with Harcourt’s arch nemesis. Amidst a series of suspicious misfortunes, Lucan endeavors to win Alexa’s love and expose the conspirators but only succeeds in reaffirming Alexa’s belief that she is inadequate to become his duchess.
HEARTBREAK AND HONOR
Highland Heather Romancing a Scot Series, Book 3
BY COLLETTE CAMERON
Excerpt
“Hugo should be home shortly. I do believe it best to wait for his counsel.” Aunt Bridget lowered the teapot, her brow knitted, either in anxiousness or irritation.
“His advice is not needed or warranted to address Alexandra’s fast behavior or the black marks her conduct has caused against both our familys’ honor.” Harrison crossed his legs and lounged against the settee’s back. Popping a last morsel of shortbread into his mouth he chewed while speaking. “Viscount Renishaw felt it his duty to report her untoward conduct—”
“Mr. Peterson, our family,” Aunt Bridget, her spine ramrod stiff and eyes wrathful slits, gestured to Alexa and Katrina, “has not been besmirched, and Renishaw’s reputation as a scurrilous, untrustworthy bounder reaches far beyond this fabricated tryst.” She stabbed with her fiery gaze. “You would do well to avoid his company, lest people assume your character is lacking as well.”
“Well said, Auntie.” Alexa applauded, and when Minerva’s and Shona’s mouths sagged in disbelief, and Harrison choked on his biscuit and coughed, she clapped louder. Maybe he’d strangle on a crumb. One could hope, couldn’t one?
About Author Collette Cameron… 
Bestselling, award-winning Historical Romance Author, Collette Cameron, pens Scottish and Regency Romances featuring rogues, rapscallions, rakes, and the intrepid damsels who reform them. Mother to three and self-proclaimed Cadbury chocoholic, she’s crazy about dachshunds, cobalt blue, and makes her home in Oregon with her husband and five mini-dachshunds. You’ll always find animals, quirky—sometimes naughty—humor, and a dash of inspiration in her novels.
Her award-winning Castle Brides Series, Highland Heather Romancing a Scot Series, and Conundrums of the Misses Culpeppers Series, as well as her other books, are all available on Amazon and other major retailers.
~~~
Links to Collette’s Website, Books, & Social Media:
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Website Blog Twitter Facebook Regency Rose Newsletter
Amazon: http://amzn.com/B018F3C1KU
You can connect with her on LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+ too.
Just head to her website for the links.
I hope you enjoy the recipe Collette is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 236 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WHO DOESN’T LOVE SHORTBREAD?
BY COLLETTE CAMERON
Shortbread, a kind of cookie-biscuit, is said to have originated in Scotland as early as the 12th century, and the first printed recipe is attributed to a Mrs. McLintock in the early 1700s.
In general, the recipe is said to be one part sugar, two parts butter, and three parts flower.
I’m a huge fan of shortbread and when I spy Walkers Shortbread, I’ve been known to grab two or three because I never know when I’ll come across those melt-in-your-mouth wafers again.
Though Walker’s Shortbread comes in several fancy shapes, shortbread typically comes in three: little round flats, finger type biscuits, or a large circle that is cut into triangles called petticoat tails, thought to have been thus named by Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th century.
This is my grandmother’s recipe. She wasn’t Scot’s but Grandpa was.
Grandma Cameron’s Scottish Shortbread Cookies
My grandmother made these shortbread cookies, and my understanding is the recipe was actually my Great-Grandmother Cameron’s. She immigrated to the United States from Nova Scotia.
Shortbread cookies are my all-time favorite cookies, especially with a cup of tea. I frequently have my characters nibbling shortbread biscuits too.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (use high quality butter)
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat oven to 350F with the rack in the center of the oven.
Combine flour and salt in a bowl using a whisk. Set aside. Beat the butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract. Stir in the flour. Form the dough into a flattened ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for ½ hour or until firm. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface until ¼ inch thick. Using a floured cookie cutter, cut into shapes. Gently place cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets and return to the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This helps the cookies retain their shape.
Bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should be very lightly browned on the edges. Cool on a wire rack.
Store in an airtight container for one week or freeze. Cookies can be eaten plain, dipped in chocolate and sprinkles, or decorated with icing.
December 2, 2015
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: A Memory Away by Melinda Curtis
KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!
~~
A MEMORY AWAY
A Harmony Valley Novel
BY MELINDA CURTIS
Blurb
Duffy Dufraine just found out he’s going to be an uncle. Jessica Aguirre came to Harmony Valley in search of the father of her unborn child, which is by no means him. An accident may have damaged the expectant mom’s memory, but he knows his twin is the man she’s looking for. But Greg’s gone, which leaves Duffy the only family Jess has. And he has to make things right. Offering her a temporary place to stay seems an ideal short-term solution. Until she stirs desires that make the embattled vineyard manager rethink his own long-term game plan. Is he ready to offer Jess and her baby a home to call their own—with him?
A MEMORY AWAY
A Harmony Valley Novel
BY MELINDA CURTIS
Excerpt
Did he love me?
A man got out of the truck. Dark hair. Straight nose. Familiar eyes.
It’s him.
She leaned forward, peering through the paned glass, her heart sailing toward him, over ever-hopeful waves of roses and rainbows.
Jess didn’t usually let herself dream. But now…today…him…
And yet…
He wore a burgundy vest jacket that clashed with a red long-sleeve T-shirt. Worn blue jeans. A black baseball cap.
Instead, she saw him in a fine wool suit. Black, always black. A navy shirt of the softest cotton. A silk tie in a geometric pattern. Shiny Italian loafers…
He took the stairs two at a time, work boots ringing on wood.
Jessica’s heart sank as certainly as if someone had drilled holes in the boat carrying her hopeful emotions. Clouds blocked the sun. The rainbow disappeared. Unwilling to sink, Jess clung to joy. To the idea of him.
He entered without a flourish or an energetic greeting. He entered without the smile that teased the corners of her memory. He entered and took stock of the room, the situation, her.
Their eyes met. His were the same color, same shape, so heart-achingly familiar.
It was the cool assessment in them that threw her off. Not a smile, not a brow quirk, not an eye crinkle.
He came forward. “I’m Michael Dufraine, but everyone calls me Duffy.”
His name didn’t ring true.
Had he lied to her?
She couldn’t speak, could barely remember her name.
The wind shook the panes. The house creaked and groaned.
He smiled. A polite smile, a distant smile, an I-don’t-know-you smile.
Disappointment overwhelmed her. Jess resisted the urge to dissolve into a pity puddle on the floor.
“And you are…?” He extended his hand.
On autopilot, she reached for him. Their palms touched.
Jessica’s vision blurred and she gripped his hand tighter as clips of memory assailed her—his deep laughter, him offering her a bite of chocolate cheesecake, his citrusy cologne as he leaned in to kiss her.
It is him.
Relieved. She was so relieved. Jessica blinked at the man—Duffy—who she vaguely recalled and, at the same time, did not.
She’d practiced what to say on the hour-long drive up here from Santa Rosa. Ran through several scenarios. None of them had included him not recognizing her.
She should start at the beginning. Best not to scare him with hysterics and panicked accusations, of which she’d had five months to form.
Don’t raise your voice. Don’t cry. Don’t ask why.
And don’t lead the conversation with the elephant in the room.
Despite all the cautions and practicing and caveats, she drew a breath, and flung her hopes toward him as if he was her life preserver. “I think I’m your wife.”
Meet the Author, Melinda Curtis… 
Award winning, USA Today bestseller Melinda Curtis writes the Harmony Valley series of sweet and emotional romances for Harlequin Heartwarming, and the sweet romantic comedy Bridesmaid series. Brenda Novak says: “Season of Change has found a place on my keeper shelf”. Melinda also writes hotter romances as Mel Curtis. Jayne Ann Krentz says of Blue Rules: “Sharp, sassy, modern version of a screwball comedy from Hollywood’s Golden Age except a lot hotter.”
~~~
Links to Melinda’s website, blog, books, etc.
Ebook Buy Links for A Memory Away:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1LoUBqQ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1GmigF7
B&N: http://bit.ly/1VSA9G4
iTunes: http://apple.co/1Qu678S
Print Book via Harlequin (available January 1, 2016):
http://bit.ly/1KdzpmL
Print Available in Wal-Mart January 1, 2016
Special Offers/Freebies:
Readers of this blog will be emailed a FREE sweet romantic comedy by signing up for Melinda’s book release email newsletter.
Link: http://www.melindacurtis.net/join-melinda-s-mailing-list
Website: www.MelindaCurtis.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelindaCurtisAuthor
Twitter: @MelCurtisAuthor
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/melcurtisauthor/
December 1, 2015
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: “Holiday Handbag Extravaganza”, Season of Surprises Box Set by Vicki Batman ETAL
KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!
~~
SEASON OF SURPRISES
“Holiday Handbag Extravaganza”
BY VICKI BATMAN
with
Merry Holly, Bobbi Lerman, Madison West, Gerri Brousseau, Cara Marsi, Jane Gale and Kristin Drew
Story Blurbs
Season of Surprises holiday stories full of wishes and kisses from eight Amazon best-selling authors.
“Noelle’s Surprise” by Merry Holly: A couple living on a tropical island has a secret that might tear them apart.
“Her Frog Prince Holiday” by Cara Marsi: Can a woman who thought she wanted a frog learn to love a prince?
“A Day for Destiny” by Jane Gale: A court summons and arrival of a sexy, mysterious man throws Destiny’s mundane life into chaos. Not knowing who to trust, she could lose everything, including her heart.
“Turkish Delight” by Madison West: An agoraphobic young woman embarks on a trip to Istanbul, Turkey in search of a rare tapestry, but instead finds love and herself.
“Providence” by Bobbi Lerman: An accident sends 21st century fugitive Amy Beale back in time into the arms of a beguiling artist for one last chance to clear her name and find her fate in a love that transcends time and space.
“Enticed by a Laird” by Gerri Brousseau: A Scottish Laird captured the heart of a titled Englishwoman from the first moment she laid eyes on him, but would his clan and her family ever approve of their forbidden love?
“Holiday on the Home Front” by Kristin Drew: In 1944, an itinerant waitress falls for a deploying soldier, and puts down roots in his hometown with the hope doing so will bring him home safely from war.
“Holiday Handbag Extravaganza” by Vicki Batman: Christmas Countdown is on! Hunk-a-licious customer, Jack Treadaway, pesters boutique owner, Callie Woods, to locate a vintage handbag for his mother. Too bad the wedge between them is his sister, the meanest girl in town.
SEASON OF SURPRISES
“Holiday Handbag Extravaganza”
BY VICKI BATMAN
Excerpt
What a mess.
The bell sitting on the counter above my head ding-ding-dinged in an irritating way. I huffed. Really?
I heard, “Hey,” —two dings— “I need help. Anybody working today?”
Despite the din assaulting my ears, I didn’t answer, and not because I was mean. Because I was a woman on a mission. It was imperative I retrieve the hundred dollar bill that had vanished when The Copper Teapot’s front door had erupted wide with a wintry gust. All kinds of stuff had gone flying like price tags, papers, and hard-earned moola. In today’s sucky economy, every smidgen of revenue mattered.
Obviously, this guy couldn’t see me crouched down on the floor. His toe tapping and bell ringing conveyed his impatience. Sticking the ruler in the gap between the floor and the showcase, I bit my lip and concentrated, waving the tool back and forth so I could snag the elusive dinero. Another three-note ding sounded, and I rolled my eyes before singsonging, “Just a…minute, please.”
Fingers drummed above my head. I shrugged my shoulders, thinking, rats. Every customer is important. Guess I should be a responsible business owner and do the right thing. “Be right with you.”
“Okay, but hurry.”
“Almost…there…Got it!” I jumped to my feet and dangled the money in his face. “Pay day.”
I finished my jig to check out the customer only to find —Oh By Golly— Jack, as in the Jack Treadaway, the hunky hunk from Sommerville High School days. I couldn’t believe this man graced my shop.
Why was he here?
What I like about Christmas, by Vicki Batman…
The lights. As a kid, my dad would drive us around and we would ooh and aah over the decorations which were primarily lights strung along the roofline. Several years ago, I went on a girlfriend trip to a historic town. Many of the trees were decorated with stars. So now, I’m fixated on lighted stars.
The ornaments. My mom was highly creative. One year, she made ornaments with red satin balls, adding sequins and odd bits of pieces of jewelry, faux pearls and glitter. Sadly, she gave hers away, but I have searched for treasures of my own to decorate with. I also love vintage ones made from felt.
The music. I grew up listening to old-school favorites, Nat King Cole, Mel Torme, Frank Sinatra. I’ve added classical guitar, Michael Buble, Chris Botti, Josh Groban, Sarah Brightman…Lordy, I have 326 Christmas songs on my iPod. And yes, the minute Sirius FM has Holly and Holiday Traditions playing, I’m tuning in.
Fruitcake. Now, don’t go making a face. I grew up with delicious ones, filled with nuts and other goodies. My favorite dessert is to cut a fruitcake into bite size pieces, and cover with chocolate melting chips. Everyone thinks they are eating candy. LOL
The movies. My list is endless. I have always watched Charlie Brown’s Christmas, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Having men, I had to add some boy-oriented ones: Stalag 17, for example. But I always-always-always watch White Christmas every Christmas Eve. And sing the songs.
Family and Friends. There’s nothing like sharing and laughing over a good meal, even if it is pizza. And I especially like giving them something I’ve made and hope they will treasure.
I like to write holiday stories. This year, I wrote “Holiday Handbag Extravaganza” for the Season of Surprises anthology. I love handbags and especially those which were crafted by Enid Collins in the sixties. Here’s a blurb and a small excerpt:
Christmas Countdown is on! Hunk-a-licious customer, Jack Treadaway, pesters boutique owner, Callie Woods, to locate a vintage handbag for his mother. Too bad the wedge between them is his sister, the meanest girl in town.
~~~
Links to Vicki’s website, blog, books, etc.
Find Vicki Batman at:
Website: http://vickibatman.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1ipdLkv
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VickiBatman/
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/vickibatman/
Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4814608.Vicki_Batman/
Author Central:
https://www.amazon.com/author/vickibatman
Email: vlmbatman@hotmail.com
Find Season of Surprises at:
https://www.facebook.com/ASeasonOfMagic?fref=ts/
Find Season of Surprises:
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/season-of-surprises-holiday-box-set-merry-holly/1122604571?ean=2940152242966
Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/search?Query=season+of+surprises
iBooks:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id1034934609
~~
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
Thanks, Vicki, for sharing your story with us!!
November 30, 2015
Karen’s Killer Book Bench **RELEASE DAY** Season of Thrills Box Set: 5 Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Novels by Bestselling Authors!!
KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!
~~
**RELEASE DAY**
SEASON OF THRILLS BOX SET
5 Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Novels by Bestselling Authors
BY JERRIE ALEXANDER, KIM CRESSWELL, K.L. DOCTER, RACHEL KENT & MARIAN LANOUETTE
Blurbs
HELL OR HIGH WATER
Lost and Found, Inc.
By Jerrie Alexander
Blurb: When ex-SEAL Nate Wolfe learns a woman from his past is in danger, nothing will stop him from protecting her. Not even her.
Dallas Child Protection Services Investigator Kay Taylor doesn’t want or need Nate in her life. But he doesn’t seem to understand the word no. He seems to also have forgotten the brand he left on her heart.
When Kay is taken and sold to a monster, the devil himself couldn’t stop Nate from doing whatever it takes to find her…but will he be in time?
Excerpt Shared: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-sneak-peek-season-of-thrillshell-or-high-water-by-jerrie-alexander.html
REFLECTION
A Whitney Steel Novel – Book One
By Kim Cresswell
Blurb: Lunch with the ex-husband is not always a fun thing especially when bullets start flying and reporter Whitney Steel finds herself in the middle of a human cloning story that will rock the world…providing she lives long enough to get her byline. “A deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end.” –New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love
Excerpt Shared: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-sneak-peek-season-of-thrillsreflection-by-kim-cresswell.html
KILLING SECRETS
A Thorne’s Thorns Novel, Book One
By K.L. Docter
Blurb: Some secrets are better left dead. Too bad the Angel Killer’s digging them up.
Rachel James’ ex-husband is released from prison determined to reclaim her and her traumatized child, his key to the James fortune. Patrick Thorne isn’t interested in helping another of his parents’ charity cases, especially after losing his unborn son and wife to suicide. Only trust will untangle the secrets that dominate their lives, free a child of her silent prison, and save them both from a killer who stands too close.
Excerpt Shared: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-sneak-peek-season-of-thrillskilling-secrets-by-k-l-docter.html
BROKEN PIECES
Bits & Pieces Book
By Rachel Kent
Blurb: Tara Jacobs had her life completely planned. She truly did have it all after a lifetime of struggles. Unfortunately, her stepbrother arrives in town and threatens to ruin her well-laid plans with some blackmail. Tara stops at almost nothing to keep her skeletons from tumbling out of the closet.
Excerpt Shared: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-sneak-peek-broken-pieces-by-rachel-kent.html
If I FAIL
A Jake Carrington Mystery Book One
By Marian Lanouette
Blurb: Are rules really meant to be broken? Jake Carrington finds out the hard way and the answer is no! Dating Chloe Wagner was a huge mistake, and Jake should have known better—he’s investigating the murder of Chloe’s sister. Now Chloe is the number one suspect in that murder. If she’s convicted, Jake could lose not only his rank, but his career. If that’s not bad enough, he’s got a stalker on his hands, someone who’s threatening his fledgling relationship with the lovely Mia. Things are getting just a little too personal for comfort!
Excerpt Shared: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-sneak-peek-season-of-thrillsif-i-fail-by-marian-lanouette.html
Amazon
amzn.to/1WS2RHV
KOBO
bit.ly/1VJAw3R
iTunes
apple.co/1huLmNC
chapters.indigo
bit.ly/1LmlQ9y
SEASON OF THRILLS Box Set is a value-packed, thrill ride for those who love romantic suspense, procedural suspense, detective mysteries, thrillers, and so much more. Get your copy today. Happy Reading!!!
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Eileen Dreyer’s 12 Days of Romance Giveaway with 25 Bestselling Authors!!
Eileen Dreyer’s 12 Days of Romance Giveaway
Launches Today
with these Bestselling Authors!!
Eileen Dreyer:
Twitter: @eileendreyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenDreyer
Rebecca Zanetti
Twitter: @RebeccaZanetti
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaZanetti.Author.FanPage
Shana Galen
Twitter @shanagalen
https://www.facebook.com/ShanaGalen
Cynthia Woolf
Twitter @CynthiaWoolf
www.facebook.com/CynthiaWoolf
Tracey Devlyn
Twitter @TraceyDevlyn
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTraceyDevlyn
Vanessa Vale
Twitter @iamvanessavale
http://www.facebook.com/vanessavaleauthor
Kristan Higgins
Twitter @Kristan_Higgins
www.facebook.com/KristanHigginsBooks
ML Callahan
Twitter @ML_Callahan
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMLCallahan
Jade Lee
Twitter @JadeLeeAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/JadeLeeBooks?ref=hl
Kathy Lyons
https://www.facebook.com/KathyLyonsBooks/?fref=ts
Adrienne Giordano
Twitter @AdriennGiordano
https://www.facebook.com/AdrienneGiordanoAuthor/
Heather Graham
Twitter @HeatherGraham
https://www.facebook.com/HeatherGrahamAuthor
Kristen Painter
Twitter @Kristen_Painter
https://www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor/
Maggie Mae Gallagher
Twitter @magmaegallagher
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maggie-Mae-Gallagher/107335792624944
Ella Quinn
Twitter @ellaquinnauthor
https://www.facebook.com/EllaQuinnAuthor
Terri Brisbin
Twitter @Terri_Brisbin
www.facebook.com/terribrisbinauthor
Debra Holland
Twitter @DrDebraHolland
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Debra-Holland/395355780562473
Coreene Callahan
Twitter @coreenecallahan
https://www.facebook.com/Coreene-Callahan-173981189346509/
Shawntelle Madison
Twitter @Shawntelle
https://www.facebook.com/ShawntelleMadisonAuthor
Kelsey Browning
Twitter @kelseybrowning
www.facebook.com/kelseybrowningauthor
KL Docter
Twitter @KarenDocter
https://www.facebook.com/kldocter/
Cate Rowan
Twitter @CateRowan
http://www.facebook.com/CateRowan.AuthorPage
Tami Hoag
Twitter @TamiHoag
www.facebook.com/TamiHoag
Elizabeth Grayson
Twitter @EGraysonAuthor
facebook.com/elizabeth.grayson754
SE Smith
Twitter @sesmithfl
https://www.facebook.com/se.smith.5
Shelley K Wall
Twitter @skwallbooks
https://www.facebook.com/skwallbooks
~~~
Grand Prize: 7″ Kindle Fire HDX
2 First Prizes: $50 Amazon Gift Card
& Ebook Prizes are up for grabs!!!
GIVEAWAY ENDS December 12th, 2015!!!
TO ENTER GIVEAWAY:
http://www.romcon.com/giveaway
Fill your Christmas stocking with new authors!
Happy Reading!!
November 29, 2015
**Author Peek** Interview with Vicki Batman
**AUTHOR PEEK** Interview with
VICKI BATMAN!!
~~
INTRODUCING….Vicki Batman.
Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.
Award-winning author, Vicki Batman, has sold many romantic comedy works to the True magazines, several publishers, and most recently, two romantic comedy mysteries to The Wild Rose Press. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and several writing groups. An avid Jazzerciser. Handbag lover. Mahjong player. Yoga practitioner. Movie fan. Book devourer. Chocoaholic. Best Mom ever. And adores Handsome Hubby. Most days begin with her hands set to the keyboard and thinking “What if??”
1. What appeals to you about the genre that you write?
I write contemporary romantic comedy. I think this genre is a natural extension of myself. My fingers just fly and I let it roll out.
2. Are you a plotter or a pantser (one who writes “by the seat of your pants”)?
I’m a Plotster. I have a general idea of plot: Hook, Middle, Black Moment, and Happily Ever After. BUT I let my mind take me through those stages until the end-pantster. Plot+ster=Plotster
3. What is your favorite part of writing?
I really love getting down a dirty first draft. I work and work until I’m sick of the story. Set aside and move on to a new project. Then I go back and work some more. It’s slow, but what works for me.
4. If you had to give up writing and do something else, what would you do instead?
I’d probably work in retail, like an antique mall. I like old things.
5. What’s your favorite meal of the day?
Breakfast. I eat half a grapefruit, small glass of milk, and half a bagel just about every day. But if there’s bacon….yum.
6. Which are your favorite characters to write, the female characters or the male characters ? Why?
Truly, I like writing both. I like figuring out what makes each tick, their secrets, and imagining what they look like. The quirkier ones are usually the funniest.
7. If you had a superpower, what would it be , and how would you use it?
I’m already Batman; so I do have great toys. However, if I wasn’t Batman, I’d bring peace to all.
8. Many writers dream of having the ideal location to write. If you could live anywhere in the world or live a particular lifestyle, where would you be answering these questions right now?
I’m happy at my desk at home. During the day, there’s quiet. I have lovely scenery outside my window. Squirrels and birds hang out in the bushes. It’s really lovely.
9. Do you have any rejection stories to share ? Reviews that meant something special to you?
Once, I got a contest score back and a judge had written “why do you write?” I sobbed. And sobbed. Then two days later, I decided that no one can define me, but me. So I got back to work. So ultimately, the judge did me a favor.
At RomCon, a young lady came up to me in a shy way and said she had read everything I’d written. That gave me tears too.
10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?
In 2016, The Wild Rose Press will be publishing Temporarily Insane. This romantic comedy mystery picks up from Temporarily Employed.
~~~~~
Be sure to come back to read more about Vicki and her story, “Holiday Handbag Extravaganza, in the SEASON OF SURPRISES HOLIDAY BOX SET, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench. Happy Reading!
~~~
Links to Vicki’s website, blog, books, etc.
Find Vicki Batman at:
Website: http://vickibatman.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1ipdLkv
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VickiBatman/
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/vickibatman/
Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4814608.Vicki_Batman/
Author Central:
https://www.amazon.com/author/vickibatman
Email: vlmbatman@hotmail.com
Find Season of Surprises at:
https://www.facebook.com/ASeasonOfMagic?fref=ts/
Find Season of Surprises:
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/season-of-surprises-holiday-box-set-merry-holly/1122604571?ean=2940152242966
Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/search?Query=season+of+surprises
iBooks:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id1034934609
~~
Don’t miss the chance to read this book!
Thanks, Vicki, for sharing your story with us!!
Congratulations Week 11-16-15 & 11-23-15 Giveaway Winners!!
CONGRATULATIONS WEEK
11-16-15 & 11-23-15
GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!
Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Jennie Marts!!
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: The Page Turners book club loves to search for clues and romance while eating really great desserts. Tangled Up in Tuesday is the fourth book in the Page Turners series. With the holidays right around the corner, Jennie will giveaway an ebook copy of A Cowboy for Christmas–A holiday novella in the Page Turners series–to two readers who comment below with a favorite holiday tradition. Thanks again, Jennie, for sharing your book with us!
WINNER ~ ROBIN DRISCOLL!!
Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Melissa McClone!!
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: In one scene of my story, a reindeer is mentioned. I thought it would be fun to put together a reindeer-themed prize pack. Which one of Santa’s reindeer is your favorite?
Answer in the comment section and one lucky winner will receive the reindeer prize pack that includes: Stuffed reindeer, A Christmas Homecoming keychain, socks, hot pad, earrings, cupcake holders with reindeer and Santa picks, hot chocolate, ornament, sticker book, candy and autographed Christmas title from my paperback backlist. ** Open Internationally ** Thanks, Melissa, for sharing your story with us!
WINNER ~ BONNY DIXON MacISAAC!!
Karen’s Killer Book Bench **Thanksiving Giveaway** by KAREN DOCTER!!
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: For a chance to win one autographed print copy of COP ON HER DOORSTEP, one Giant Hershey Chocolate Bar, one LED flashlight, hand lotion, lavender soap, one travel coffee mug, and three handmade (by Karen) Victorian Christmas ornaments, comment below and share one thing that you’re thankful for this holiday season! Happy Reading!
WINNER ~ C_PATTERSON!
~~~
OPEN GIVEAWAYS STILL AVAILABLE!!
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Shannyn Schroeder!!
**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: EBook of HIS NEW JAM by SHANNYN SCHROEDER!!
Enter: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-fixins-author-special-with-shannyn-schroeder.html
~~
EVERYONE’S A WINNER FOR A LIMITED TIME!!! TWO DAYS LEFT!!!
Don’t miss the SEASON OF THRILLS BOX SET for only $.99 ~ Pre-order Only!!
Five (5) full-length suspense/mystery/ thriller novels by Award-winning and Bestselling Authors JERRIE ALEXANDER, KIM CRESSWELL, K.L. DOCTER, RACHEL KENT and MARIAN LANOUETTE!! Releases December 1st at $7.99
Get your Pre-Order HERE:
Amazon – amzn.to/1WS2RHV
KOBO – bit.ly/1VJAw3R
iTunes – apple.co/1huLmNC
B&N – bit.ly/1NvGZjL
chapters.indigo – bit.ly/1LmlQ9y
~~~
All giveaway winners chosen by random.org from reader comments with the exception of Rafflecopter giveaways which are determined and announced offsite by publisher/authors. Thank you!
November 27, 2015
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: An Honorable Wish by Eileen Richards
KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!
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AN HONORABLE WISH
A Lady’s Wish
BY EILEEN RICHARDS
Blurb
Tony Matthews spends his time in London’s most notorious gambling dens, frittering away his fortune. But when his latest victory leaves a man ruined, Tony knows he’s reached his lowest point. Determined to make amends, he returns home to his family’s country estate with plans to settle down and marry at last. And he hopes the lovely Juliet Townsend will help him—if only he can keep his disgrace a secret.
Juliet’s secret wish has always been for Tony to love her. The only bright spot in her dreadful London season was dancing with him—before he disappeared to the card rooms. Now, he’s returned, but has he truly changed? Or will gambling always be his mistress, even if she becomes his wife? And does Juliet dare risk her heart by finding out?
Discover Eileen’s new release, AN HONORABLE WISH. It’s part of her series, A Lady’s Wish from Kensington/Lyrical.
I LOVE READING ROMANCE
BY EILEEN RICHARDS
I am not ashamed to say it: I love reading Romance.
What is it about the media that always seem to degrade romance novels? They use words like bodice-ripper and call it a guilty pleasure.
Do you think anyone ever said that to Joyce Carol Oats? Or Steven King? Romance fiction has taken heat for years despite the size of the industry. I’m not here to rant about how the romance genre is looked down upon or that romance authors are the red-headed stepchildren of the publishing world. I’m here to talk about why I love romance so much, I knew I had to write it.
I’ve been a voracious reader from a child. I loved fairy tales. One of my cherished possessions is a copy of Andrew Lang’s Blue Fairy Book that was my mother’s. I loved historical stories. Laura Ingalls Wilder, Louisa May Alcott, Lucy M. Montgomery were all favorites of mine. I loved the way they build their worlds. As I grew older, I found romantic suspense with Mary Stewart. About the same time I discovered the bagful of Harlequins my grandmother kept in her bedroom. I have always been a sucker for a happy ending.
My first foray into historical romance was with Kathleen Woodiwiss’ The Flame and The Flower. I was in 7th grade. This book had sex and a happy ending. Those old Harlequins closed the door at the bedroom. This one did not. I was hooked. I was also really popular in study hall. There was no way this book could compete with the Exorcist, at least as far as I was concerned.
In college I wrote my first full manuscript. It was a historical romance with pirates, I think. It was bad but I hung with a group of other writers and we bounced ideas and scenes off each other in-between bouts of Dungeons and Dragons, General Hospital, and classes.
Fast forward a lot of years and a lot of books later. I am still a voracious reader with a veritable smorgasbord of choices to select from for Romance. Historical authors Elizabeth Hoyt, Sally MacKenzie, Julia Quinn, and Lisa Kleypas are all one-click buys and preorders. I love to laugh so toss in Jill Shalvis and Lori Foster into the mix.
There are now subgenres like historical romantic suspense with new voices like Erica Monroe to enjoy. Romantic suspense has gotten a lot spicier with authors like Reagan Phillips steaming things up. New Adult, Sports romances, Victorian, Georgian, and just about every other time period is well represented now.
There has never been a better time to be a reader of romance than right now. But I keep going back to the fairy tale. Those sweet stories that are part romance and part moral lesson. Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, and Rapunzel all are done and redone with lots of twists and turns.
It was this fairy tale quality that inspired the series A Lady’s Wish. There’s a bit of magic, a dash of laughter, perhaps a smidgen of intrigue and a whole lot of love. Oh and everyone gets their happy ending.
What’s not to love about stories that allow you to escape the mundane of every day life, give you a bit of excitement and leaving you smiling through the happy ending?
What are your favorite authors? Can you recommend a new author to me?
Meet the Author, Eileen Richards… 
Eileen Richards has been writing for most of her life. Poetry, totally inappropriate answers to essay questions in school, and interesting error codes during her 30 year IT career has prepared her for the manic world of publishing.
She writes sassy regency romps set in the small villages of England where the rules are bent a bit and gossip rules the day.
Eileen resides with her husband and their diva of a greyhound in North Carolina.
~~~
Links to Eileen’s website, blog, books, etc.
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/nchbv3g
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/pjjcrel
iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/p63l6vd
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/pp6wjzc
Social Media Links:
Website: http://www.eileenrichardsauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoreileen...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/EileenRAuthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EileenRAuthor
November 26, 2015
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Shannyn Schroeder
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s
**AUTHOR SPECIAL**
with SHANNYN SCHROEDER!
Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, Shannyn Schroeder, and her favorite recipe for LIAM’S LUSCIOUS CHEESECAKE!
~~~
HIS NEW JAM
Hot & Nerdy
BY SHANNYN SCHROEDER
Blurb
Sydney Peters can’t wait to finally drop the cymbals in marching band and devote time to her true love: drums. With the semester coming to a close, she’s blocking out the cacophony during practice, especially sax serenades from Hunter Reed. But when Hunter offers her a paid gig as a drummer in his band, Sydney quickly changes her tune. The two favor different styles, but they make beautiful music together…in more ways than one.
Hunter is fascinated by Sydney’s distant allure. He might be a ladies’ man on campus, but the sarcastic cymbalist is impervious to his advances. When Hunter sees how passionate Sydney is behind the drums, he orchestrates a plan to find out if she kisses like she plays. What he doesn’t anticipate, however, is falling so hard. But will the repercussions of his past crash down on his chance at something real?
HIS NEW JAM
Hot & Nerdy
BY SHANNYN SCHROEDER
Excerpt
“Go away, Tenor.”
“Hunter. My name’s Hunter.”
She knew but didn’t want to care. He was within touching range now, and the tension between them was palpable. She raised an eyebrow to convey her indifference as she tried to ignore the electrified air bouncing between them.
“I have a favor to ask.”
“Your timing sucks.”
“You’re not the first person to say that.” He turned a huge grin on her. “In my defense, I was trying to be nice out there, not piss you off.”
She grunted at him, determined not to be swayed by the smile.
“I want you to teach me to play drums.” He fingered the edge of the floor tom.
“You know how to play. I’ve heard you.”
“I can wing it. I have a good ear, but I want to be able to really play.”
“I’m no teacher.” She gulped the rest of her water. She’d never thought about lessons, but it might be a way to make money.
“But you’re good.”
“So is everyone else on the drum line.”
“But I like you.”
She snorted. “You like everyone.”
There was the careless shrug again. “You in?”
“What’s in it for me?”
He leaned over the crash cymbal. “What do you want?”
He asked like it was a dirty little secret and it made her blood rush in ways it shouldn’t. She couldn’t afford to be attracted to someone like him, someone who wanted all the attention on him, someone who would make everyone stare at her like he had this morning.
“Nothing from you.”
He rocked back on his heels and nodded his head slowly. “How about a paying gig?”
“You’re going to pay me to teach you?”
“No. But my band has a regular gig on the weekends and my drummer is going home for the holidays. Unless you’re going somewhere?”
Her resolve to avoid Hunter began to dissolve like ice under rock salt. He offered the one thing she needed: experience with a band. She’d failed at putting together her own band numerous times, mostly because she expected too much from people or she rubbed them the wrong way.
She bit her lip. If she took this deal, she would be spending her entire break with Hunter. They would have band practice together and private lessons and work on the weekends. Hitching her chin up, she asked, “What kind of music?”
“Mostly covers of classic rock.”
Her heart sped. It seemed too good to be true. “How often does your band practice and how many lessons are you looking for?”
He started to shrug, but then seemed to think better of it. “My guy, Kevin, won’t be leaving until after finals, but I think you should jump in early, if it suits your schedule. We usually practice two or three days a week.” The corner of his mouth flicked up again. “I’m ready to start lessons immediately.”
“I need to think about it. I’ll let you know.”
About Author Shannyn Schroeder… 
Shannyn Schroeder is the author of the O’Leary series, contemporary romances centered around a large Irish-American family in Chicago and the Hot & Nerdy series about 3 nerdy friends finding love. When she’s not wrangling her three kids or writing, she watches a ton of TV and loves to bake cookies.
~~~
Links to Shannyn’s
Website, Books, & Social Media:
Buy Links:
Nook:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-new-jam-shannyn-schroeder/1121380907?ean=9781616509569
iBooks:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/his-new-jam/id979050022?mt=11
Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/his-new-jam
Author contact:
Website: http://www.shannynschroeder.com
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6575201.Shannyn_Schroeder
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SSchroeder_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannyn.schroeder
I hope you enjoy the recipe Shannyn is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 235 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Liam’s Luscious Cheesecake
By: Shannyn Schroeder
I hope all my fellow Americans had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Since it is the holiday season, I thought about sharing a recipe for a holiday dessert, but then I realized that the traditional desserts—like pumpkin pie—are not my thing. Instead, I’m going to share a recipe I created for one of my single-title novels in the O’Leary series. I love cheesecake and this recipe is easy and delicious. I don’t make it often because it’s tempting to eat the entire thing myself.
Crust:
1½ cups graham crackers
3 Tablespoons sugar
4 Tablespoons melted butter
Filling:
All ingredients should be at room temperature.
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese
2 packages (8 oz each) mascarpone cheese
1¼ cup sugar
2 teaspoons almond extract
4 eggs
Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mix graham crackers and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and mix with a fork. Press mixture into bottom and part of the way up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake crust for 10-15 minutes, until set and golden.
In a mixer, combine cream cheese and mascarpone cheese until blended. Mix in sugar. Add almond. Beat in eggs, one at a time, mix between each addition.
Pour filling mixture over crust. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Middle of cake will still be wobbly. Cake sets when cool.
Allow cake to cool for at least an hour. Wrap and place in refrigerator overnight.
Slice and enjoy.
November 25, 2015
**Thanksgiving Giveaway** COP ON HER DOORSTEP by Karen Docter
THANKSGIVING GIVEAWAY!!
I’m giving away an autographed book, along with a few other little goodies, to one of my wonderful readers this Thanksgiving weekend!!
When I asked my Facebook readers which one I should give away, one title squeaked past the others. So my giveaway is an autographed copy of my contemporary romance, COP ON HER DOORSTEP.
Blurb:
In the six years since her husband was killed by S.W.A.T., Carrie Padilla has spent long hours at work, rebuilding a life for herself and her son. The little time she has at home is spent keeping her eight-year-old son out of trouble, but he is all too eager to try to be the man in the house. When a handsome cop shows up on her doorstep, her errant son in tow, Carrie’s heart stutters. The sexy Italian cop sets off all kinds of bells in her system, and she knows there’s only one thing she can do to save what is left of her family, her husband’s memory, and her heart…avoid her new neighbor at all costs.
S.W.A.T. officer Jake Stafani already lost one little boy to gang violence, the dead boy’s older brother is missing, and Jake’s not about to let the same thing happen to a neighbor’s son. He drags the youngster home only to discover much more than a passing interest in the boy’s beautiful, but wary, mother. Forced to take a leave of absence after a bust goes awry, Jake can think of nothing better to occupy his time than to keep Carrie and her son safe, and locate the missing teen who holds the key to taking the gang off the streets, once and for all.
But Jake doesn’t count on his stubborn, intriguing neighbor distracting him from his job, or the passion that flares between them. He doesn’t expect her amazing son to steal a piece of his heart. Jake is ready to risk everything for Carrie, body and soul. But it’s not all up to him. If their new love is to survive, Carrie will need to be strong enough to see the man’s beating heart behind the badge, to look beyond the pain of her past, and decide that loving again is worth the risk.
(Stand Alone Novel)
To Enter (US ONLY): For a chance to win one autographed print copy of COP ON HER DOORSTEP, one Giant Hershey Chocolate Bar, one LED flashlight, comment below and share one thing that you’re thankful for this holiday season!
One Contest Winner will be chosen from all comments via random.org and announced Sunday, November 29th, just in time for holiday reading!
HAPPY READING!!
