Karen Docter's Blog, page 262
August 14, 2014
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Ella Quinn
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **AUTHOR SPECIAL** with ELLA QUINN!
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, ELLA QUINN, and her favorite recipe for CURRIED CHICKEN AND RICE!
Enticing Miss Eugénie Villaret
The Marriage Game, Book 6
By Ella Quinn
Book Blurb
William, Viscount Wivenly, plans to remain the most eligible of bachelors. He refuses to surrender to the schemes of husband-hunting ladies and matchmaking mamas. Fleeing the pressure of the ton, he’s bent on finding refuge in the West Indies. What he finds instead is a fascinating stranger, a woman so unlike those of his society that he can’t resist such a beguiling distraction…
Determined to let nothing complicate her mission to protect her family’s livelihood while covertly rescuing orphaned slave children, Miss Eugénie Villaret does her best to evade suitors. But when dashing William lures her down a path of forbidden adventure and delicious danger, she may be convinced that business can indeed be mixed with pleasure—and persuaded to add passion to her priorities…
Enticing Miss Eugénie Villaret
The Marriage Game, Book 6
By Ella Quinn
Hi everyone! I’m so glad to be joining you again. Karen, thank you for inviting me back.
My current release, Enticing Miss Eugénie Villaret, book #6 in The Marriage Game, is set in the Danish West Indies, now known as St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, where I live. There is so much good food here, but the dishes are sprinkled around in the story. My hero William, Viscount Wivenly is fascinated by the different dishes.
We are quite fond of soups, but the ingredients are local and would be hard to find elsewhere. So, I have a simple recipe for you that can be used with either chicken or shrimp. But first, I’ll give you an excerpt of Will and Eugénie picnicking on the beach.
Excerpt
She pointed to a corner. “Put the food here. We’ll have to anchor the other corners with our shoes.”
He hadn’t noticed before, but the wind pushed at the cloth. He put his boots in place and watched as she removed her sandals. Will could have held her whole foot in his hand. It arched as she wiggled her bare toes in the sand. Just as well she hadn’t worn stockings. The image of her removing them caused his chest to tighten, and he never would have been able to keep his promise to Andrew and Cicely.
Soon she had the dishes and plates arranged and was sitting cross-legged on the cloth. “There now. We may eat.”
Will stretched out on his side next to her. He’d expected cold chicken, cheeses and fruit. There was fruit, but instead of chicken what greeted him were bits of fried dough that resembled a circle folded in half. “What are they?”
“Pattés. They are filled with whatever Cook has.” She bit her lush lower lip as her brows lifted just enough to mar her brow. “I hope you like them.”
He’d eat anything if it would smooth out her wrinkled forehead. “I’m sure I’ll love them.” He took the one she handed him and bit into it. The crust was still firm. Exotic flavors he didn’t recognize burst both sweet and savory into his mouth. He swallowed and took another bite. It tasted like nothing he’d ever had before, but it was wonderful. “It’s very good.”
The worried expression left her countenance and her lips curved up.
“What is in them?”
Eugénie sniffed the piece he’d handed her before taking a taste. “Sweet potato, garlic, hot pepper, and conch. There are some other spices as well, such as curry.”
Will finished and picked up another one. “Chicken, I think.”
“Probably.” She chewed and swallowed. “I take it you are used to something quite different. What were you expecting?”
“Cold chicken, ham, fruit, cheeses and bread, perhaps a bottle or two of wine.” He told her of the picnics he’d had in England. “But the weather is much cooler.”
She picked up one of the small jugs and took a sip. “Ginger beer. Have you had it yet?”
“Beer?”
“It is not the same as a small beer. It has no alcohol.” Her face scrunched up, and he almost laughed.
“I take it you don’t like regular beer?”
“Non.” Eugénie held out a jug. “Try it.”
About the author…Ella Quinn.
Ella Quinn lived all over the United States, the Pacific, Canada, England and Europe before finally discovering the Caribbean. She lives in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands with her wonderful husband, three bossy cats and a loveable great dane. Ella loves when friends connect with her.
~~~
Links to Ella’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: www.ellaquinnauthor.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EllaQuinnAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ellaquinnauthor
Blog: http://ellaquinnauthor.wordpresscom
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1kM3Jfu
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1j0Lvrk
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1uFWtGp
Apple: http://bit.ly/1fZcza9
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1irRGmR
I hope you enjoy the recipe Ella is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 157 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.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CURRIED CHICKEN AND RICE
[Makes Four Servings]
5 oz boneless chicken or shrimp
½ C unbleached all-purpose flour
3 Tbs.coconut oil
1 Tbs. curry powder
¼ Tsp cinnamon
1 medium onion, chopped finely
2 or more garlic cloves, crushed
1 ½ C. long grain rice
4 ½ C. low-sodium chicken, vegetable, or fish broth
½ C. light coconut milk (canned)
1 C. fresh or frozen peas
¼ C. shredded fresh cilantro
½ C crushed roasted peanuts or cashews (optional)
If using chicken, pound the chicken until it’s 1/2 inch thick and season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour and place in a shallow dish.
Heat 2 Tbs. of coconut oil until smoking and brown chicken on both sides until golden (8 minutes). If you’re using shrimp, you may bread or not and cook until pink. Set aside.
Heat remaining 1 Tbs. oil, and cook curry powder and cinnamon, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes. Fold in rice and cook another minute. Stir in broth and coconut milk. Add chicken or shrimp, reduce heat to medium cook for another 10 minutes or until done. Remove from heat, add peas, and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Fold in cilantro and nuts. Serve at once.
Do you like to try local foods when you travel?
August 12, 2014
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Gabby, Angel of God by Greg Sandora
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!
GABBY, ANGEL OF GOD
Guardian & Messenger
Keeper of Love, Joy, Peace, Kindness & Faith
A Supernatural Romance Thriller
By GREG SANDORA
~~~
GABBY, ANGEL OF GOD by GREG SANDORA
Book Blurb
When Bo, a grieving widower, meets Gabby, he’s struck by her beauty, grace and laughter that wash over him like the sweetest song in heaven. Gabby is unlike any angel ever dreamed of—evil has no strength against her and the dark one and his minions are no match for this warrior of God. All Bo knows is that Gabby is every man’s dream and every woman’s nightmare…until she shows her true character and everyone loves her for the force of righteousness she is! Rescuing those in danger, providing for the poor and lifting up those in despair, Gabby does it all while wearing killer stilettos and a fab little black dress or tight jeans and a leather jacket.
Bo falls in love with Gabby, but she won’t let her own desires interfere with God’s orders and her mission. He realizes her short stay in his life is bittersweet because he’s going to lose another woman he loves. He’s been insensitive to the women in his life after his wife died, but Gabby has taught him the eternal power of love. Ever relentless, Bo is determined to exploit that power to the nth degree to get what he wants—never realizing he can destroy his destiny and the glorious future God has for mankind!
The story starts out with a young widower, Bo, raising two small children and the three heartbeats that will change his life. Ride along as stunningly beautiful Gabby, takes this human man on the no-holds barred adventure of a lifetime!
If you’ve ever lost a loved one this story is for you!
A story of Peace, Love, Hope, Charity and the strength of Faith, you’ll love Gabby, Angel of God.
Gabby, is gorgeous, powerful, and able to take on forces that would make the most powerful armies turn and run for their lives.
When a widower who feels he has lost everything meets an angel, he finds out that his life is just beginning. Gabby is an angel of God who shows him that life is always full of surprises, adventures and a lot more meaning than we can easily fathom. She shows Bo how to help others, be open to love again and find the hidden strength that lies within all of us. It is a story with heart and hope that will take you on an adventure of faith with one amazing angel.
Reading Gabby, Angel of God will leave you feeling good about your life and dreaming of heaven.
~~~
GABBY, ANGEL OF GOD by GREG SANDORA
Excerpt
The door chimes at the top of the old door rang, signaling our arrival. Other than the little bells jingling, everything seemed too quiet. I quickly surveyed the room sensing something was wrong. More often than not you would get a friendly greeting when you entered a store, especially in a small one-person shop. The shopkeeper would normally be so glad to see a customer or have anyone stop by. Not here, not today, something was off.
The store itself was normal – laid out the usual way with a few grocery isles to make the state happy. Maine has a stupid rule that small stores must stock at least a certain dollar figure of groceries in order to maintain a license to sell beer, wine, and cigarettes. That’s how the proprietor makes his money. To meet the requirement variety stores usually stock a few isles of dust covered groceries conveniently priced at three times normal. The right side of the store was reserved for groceries, leaving the left side of Zeb’s lined with a neat display of old- fashioned beer coolers. A dark oak, glass front counter had pride of the place at the back of the store. It was topped by and old-fashioned brass cash register.
What seemed odd to me was the way the shopkeeper continued staring straight ahead without saying anything. Not even a friendly, “What can I do you for,” when we walked in. A tall, heavy-set biker stood faced toward the counter between the closest beer cooler and the center aisle. His massive bulk, greasy ponytail, and leather vest made him look ominous. Gorilla hairy except for his shaved arms completely inked with skulls, daggers, and black lettering. The words so stretched over his skin you could barely make out the ink. I always give guys like him a wide berth.
“Don’t worry, Bo,” Gabby offered reassuringly as she walked straight up to the counter as if she hadn’t a care in the world. Standing side by side with the tattooed giant,
“Do you have Tab,” she asked. “My boyfriend would like one.” Her voice was so cute I had to smile. I loved hearing Gabby call me her boyfriend. Even if it was just for show, I played along.
The shopkeeper was shaking his head and biting his lip. I knew he wanted us to just turn around and walk away. The sooner the better, if I was judging his demeanor correctly. I was beginning to feel and sense things around Gabby. It felt like my brain was finally waking up from a long slumber and making connections that I never made before.
The big man turned to face my angel, towering over her, even in her heels. “They’re fresh out, Missy,” he barked, trying to intimidate, “Why don’t you and your little girly man save yourself the trouble, and just leave.”
The storekeeper’s eyes were pleading with us to go. Gabby was undaunted. She turned toward him, “Is that any way to speak to a lady, Wesley?” She asked so fearlessly. It was sexy. I’ve never seen anything like it and I was falling in love.
“How did you know my name you prissy little…
Editor’s Note: For another look at Greg’s book, go to Look Inside at:
About the author, Greg Sandora…
I’m originally from the Portland, Maine area and lived and worked there for years before moving to Southwest Florida. My first book, Jack Canon’s American Destiny: He’s All In, is a Presidential Thriller, or some might say White House Mystery Thriller, packed with action and adventure. I just completed the sequel to Jack Canon’s American Destiny – which is titled Jack Canon’s Women of the House: Love, Lust and Loyalty (A story of Kindness, Passion and Courage that can’t be separated. It’s has all of the same components of the first but leans toward a Presidential Romance, or White House Romance Thriller. The sequel is just as action packed, but with a bit more spice than the first, some would say it’s very sensual. Anyway both are available on Amazon now.
My next project is a Supernatural Romance Thriller, it involves an angel, Gabby, short for Gabriella – Basically, a man during a visit to Bar Harbor, Maine encounters a beautiful angel named Gabby; quite accidentally, he is told – she wasn’t supposed to make him aware of her existence. His purity of spirit, kindness and capacity for love has revealed her to him. Naturally he falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful creature, as humans can not resist angels. The book is titled Gabby, Angel of God, Guardian and Messenger (Keeper of the Peace, Love, Hope, Charity and Faith. She’s quite something and they go on a quick but exciting adventure helping people in trouble. There’s even some horror thrown into the mix. Gabby fits nicely in the Supernatural, Romantic Thriller, Paranormal and Time Travel genres. All three books have adventures and thrills, are fast paces and even some hilarious moments. The Jack Canon series will eventually be about 7 books, book three is tentatively titled, Jack Canon’s Ghost Operative, it’s a Presidential Agent Thriller and deals heavily in the shady dealings of the CIA, Global Terrorism, and the do-what-ever it takes spy mentality. Anyway the attitude of President Jack Canon is to make things right, No matter what! My hope is to have people read the stories and let me know their thoughts. My dream is to write full time and return to beautiful Maine in the Summertime while spending winters in Florida. I probably share that goal with a lot of people.
My Dad and Mom were artists, my father painted and my mother wrote poetry and loved to garden. Most Saturdays we loaded up the 1970 Chevy Impala to trek to a one man show somewhere or other. I took a different track graduating with a business degree; owning and operating an Award Winning Franchise Fitness Center. Currently a professional manager I am living in Florida with my beautiful wife and children, and following my passion.
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Links to Greg’s website, blog, books, etc.
Greg Sandora
Author
Jack Canon’s American Destiny
Read Now – http://bit.ly/VYf6pO
Twitter – @gregsandora
Website: www.gregsandora.com
Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00IJA6XQS
~~~~
Thanks so much, Greg, for stopping in and sharing your book with us!
Happy Reading!
August 10, 2014
**Author Peek** Interview with Greg Sandora
GABBY, ANGEL OF GOD
Guardian & Messenger
Keeper of Love, Joy, Peace, Kindness & Faith
A Supernatural Romance Thriller
By GREG SANDORA
**AUTHOR PEEK** Interview
INTRODUCING…Greg Sandora!
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.
I’m originally from the Portland, Maine area and lived and worked there for years before moving to Southwest Florida. My first book, Jack Canon’s American Destiny: He’s All In, is a Presidential Thriller, or some might say White House Mystery Thriller, packed with action and adventure. I just completed the sequel to Jack Canon’s American Destiny – which is titled Jack Canon’s Women of the House: Love, Lust and Loyalty (A story of Kindness, Passion and Courage that can’t be separated. It’s has all of the same components of the first but leans toward a Presidential Romance, or White House Romance Thriller. The sequel is just as action packed, but with a bit more spice than the first, some would say it’s very sensual. Anyway both are available on Amazon now.
My next project is a Supernatural Romance Thriller, it involves an angel, Gabby, short for Gabriella…
1. What appeals to you about the genre that you write?
I like the Fantasy genre. It allows me to imagine a world unlimited.
2. Are you a plotter or a pantser (one who writes “by the seat of your pants”)?
I am a plotter most of the time, in that I try to plan the story out in my mind prior to writing. However, the characters sometimes have their own ideas once the story takes shape. That’s when things get exciting.
3. What is your favorite part of writing?
My favorite part of writing is when the story takes over. You can’t plan for every eventuality, and the characters can sometimes surprise you.
4. If you had to give up writing and do something else, what would you do instead?
I would like to sight-see across the United States.
5. What’s your favorite meal of the day?
Dinner is my favorite meal of the day. My breakfast is pretty ordinary, consisting of eggs, ham, cheese and toast. Dinner is always something different, I like surprises. My wife is an incredible cook, and also the most beautiful and smartest person I know.
6. Which are your favorite characters to write, the female characters or the male characters? Why?
I like to write both male and female characters. Jack Canon, in Jack Canon’s American Destiny, Gabby, in Gabby, Angel of God. I had fun writing both, one a powerful and likable president whose goal was to help others navigate an unfair and corrupt system, the other an Angel, with powers over nature and events.
7. If you had a superpower, what would it be , and how would you use it?
If I had a superpower, it would be to time travel. I would love to go back to see the 50′s, Lincoln, the colonial times, things like that.
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?
Right now I am answering these questions in Point Sebago, Maine. It is one of my favorite places and I dream of writing here every summer someday. I was close once, having spent five summers here, but the long recession delayed my return. It is truly a blessing to be sitting in the lodge once again, with fervent hope.
9. Do you have any rejection stories to share ? Reviews that meant something special to you?
Reviews and rejection are tough, especially when you are sure the person did not read the book. In that case why write a review? The most important thing is to believe in the story, and trust that your writing will reach the right people. I really enjoy reading reviews from readers who have delved deep into the books, and taken something away from them.
10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?
I am currently writing the sequel to Gabby, Angel of God. In the second book of the series, Gabby returns to earth, seeking Bo’s assistance to save mankind and become a more powerful angel in the bargain. In order to help, Bo becomes a professional baseball pitcher. I won’t spoil the story but, if Gabby succeeds she will become a protector in the Kingdom of Heaven. What is to become of Bo and his entire family when evil seeks it’s revenge. Find out what happens in the dimension of God’s witness protection program.
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Links to Greg’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: www.gregsandora.com
Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00IJA6XQS
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BE SURE TO COME BACK to read more about Greg and his release, GABBY, ANGEL OF GOD, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench. Happy Reading!
August 7, 2014
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with T.B. Bond
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **AUTHOR SPECIAL** with T.B. BOND!
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, T.B. BOND, and her favorite recipe for CHERRY-BERRY OATMEAL COOKIES!
SHENANIGANS
A Tale of Love, Sex, and Magic
By T.B. BOND
Book Blurb
Meet Edward Richards. She’s your typical girl (if you overlook the fact that she has a man’s name and is a succubus), but when she meets Jackson Loren everything changes. Jackson is hot, fun, and stubborn. He always has an argument for why he should get his way and Edward is having trouble disagreeing. When their first date goes horribly wrong both of them are forever changed.
Fast forward four years and the two of them reconnect. Things heat up with a series of hijinks, interfering sisters, and a supernatural body switching governess. All the two of them want is to just go on a simple date and be normal in this tale of love, sex, and magic.
SHENANIGANS
A Tale of Love, Sex, and Magic
By T.B. BOND
Excerpt
Jackson Loren tossed back a shot of whiskey. He motioned to the bartender to hit him with another shot. This one, his fifth, he nursed as he tried to drown the sound of loud music. Who had the bright idea to go out on the town? He had a paper to write if he wanted to pass his Business Analytics class and graduate this semester.
Knock on wood.
This class, true to form, was brutal. The professor took advantage of the fact that the college only offered this class in the Spring Semester. Professor Bempong enjoyed lording ’his way or the highway’ over everyone. The entire semester held nothing but brown-nosing and nose grinding. If he didn’t need the degree for his pack, he would just eat the guy and be done with it.
He downed the rest of the shot at the thought of brutalizing another… brutalizing a human being. His gut clinched. Pete would frown at his revulsion over his animal tendencies. The pack leader had the opinion that humans were only good for food, employees, and sex. He recognized few exceptions. If a wolf hungered enough, a human was SOL.
Twisted as it was, he missed Pete and the rest of the pack. He looked forward to going home to Tidewater after graduation.
“I need another,” he yelled over the din that some called dance music, but the bartender shook his head.
“Hey, Jack.” His blonde roommate, Les, laughed as he slapped his back. “You’re not going to sit at the bar all night, are you? The good ones don’t hang around here.”
Jackson frowned at the bartender before turning to his friend. What the hell? He had a buzz strong enough to consider the idea. He hadn’t been laid all semester. “I’ll bite, Les. Where are the good ones?”
His roommate grabbed him by shoulders and moved from the bar. He thumbed toward the dance floor. “Just grind up next to one and see how she moves.”
“I ain’t that drunk.” Jack shook his head and started for the bar. His friend grabbed his shoulder as a new song began, but he said, “I’m going upstairs.”
“Keys?” Les asked, holding out his hand.
Jackson rolled his eyes and threw his keys at his friend then turned toward the stairs. He didn’t bother arguing the issue. Les wouldn’t let him walk around with car keys when he was knocking shots back like water. His roommate would put him in a squad car and throw him in jail until he dried out first. That was the drawback of having a cop for a roommate. He would have to take his fun on foot someplace else.
If the bartender downstairs insisted on cutting him off, he’d find a bartender on another floor who would accommodate him. This was one plus in coming to such a popular club as Bay’s. They had plenty of everything – legs, ass, boobs, and booze.
In another day, he would gladly take a break, but today… Jackson rubbed his left shoulder. He bore no scar, but he remembered the pain of the bite he’d received four years ago.
That bite had turned him into a werewolf, which wasn’t so bad. It had its weird moments, but plenty of paranormal movies and books had subliminally primed his mind for the possibility. Edward scarred him more than anything. She never came back to school. He found her house empty when he tracked her down days later, looking for answers.
Pete said she’d tried to kill him.
He still wanted her.
He had a lot of questions and nothing made sense. Pete had tried to explain that she no longer posed a problem, but that made him more suspicious. He tried to get the details out of the alpha wolf, but Pete refused to elaborate. He got pissed whenever anyone asked him questions. It was rare for Pete to be so vague. Jackson figured it had something to do with the elfin angel. He didn’t remember much before he passed out, but he remembered her. The elfin angel had erased parts of Pete’s mind. That was Jackson’s theory, anyway. All he had to do was find her and he could find Edward. Then he could make her talk.
“I need to get a life,” he muttered as he sat at a bar. He threw a bill on the counter. “A shot of José.”
A bartender poured the drink and took the money. Jackson picked up the shot to toss it back then paused. Hairs on the back of his neck stood on end, and his skin erupted in goose flesh.
What the hell? Was he sick? His heart started to race.
“Hey, buddy, are you okay?” the bartender asked.
He set down his drink. “I’ve had enough.” He pushed from the bar and strode away. He needed some air.
You’re my addiction sang throughout the club as he made his way downstairs to go outside. He scanned fruitlessly through the gyrating crowd for Les. Once he regained control, he would head to the apartment, company or not.
A familiar flash of dark locks caught his eye for a moment before dissolving into the sea of dancers in the dim club atmosphere. His breath slowed as his heart started to race to the beat of the music’s bass line.
He sensed something here. It had to be.
He tried to focus his senses then cursed. It was really too damn loud in this club. What possessed him to come here? In frustration, he turned for the exit.
…When you move like that, I get so excited…
A cinnamon scent looped a noose around him and arrested his movement. Facing the dance floor, he followed the scent. An orgy of dance surrounded him as he joined the sea of undulation.
In his peripheral vision, women gyrated against their partners with vigor as they moved in time to the music. A few of the dancers withdrew to the side and began to bump and grind against the wall, not bothering to take it to the bathroom.
His temperature increased as he advanced to the center of the crowd. He barely wondered where the bouncers had gone or why everyone acted so heated. He was too far gone himself.
You and me in the corner…
“Mine.” He growled as the cinnamon started to short-circuit his brain.
He had only one obstacle to his goal. A dark-haired guy in jeans and a polo shirt moved against sex in heels.
“Mine.” He pushed the guy grinding against her and claimed her for his own.
“The hell,” the guy yelled over the music. He lunged at Jackson, cocking his fist.
Jackson flashed his canines.
Polo shirt faltered. “Freak,” he muttered before disappearing into the crowd.
Jackson wrapped his arm around cinnamon’s waist and tugged her close against him. He buried his nose in her neck as he moved against her. Euphoria filled him as they danced and he took in her essence.
In some other part of his brain, the sane part, he screamed to rein in his possessiveness and get out of Dodge. He didn’t understand his own actions. He’d somehow switched to autopilot, except he reveled in it. Cinnamon felt good next to him. His body was calm. Calmer, anyway. He only wanted to stay next to her and breathe in her scent all night as he moved inside of her.
About the author…T.B. Bond.
TB. Bond has been writing, drawing, and web designing for years. When she is not doing one of those things, she’s reading and watching anime. Nerdtastic to the core she’s a Whovian, Trekie, Otaku, and probably a whole host of other things.
Described as one of the hardest working people known by her friends, she holds three degrees; one in science, one in art, and one in information technology. Currently her main job is in a learning technology department where she uses elements all of three fields.
Currently she lives with her husband, a fellow nerd, in Virginia.
~~~
Links to T.B.’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: http://www.bondgirlblue.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TBBond
Twitter: https://twitter.com/neverStirred
Shenanigans Available:
Nook, Kindle, Create Space, Smashwords.
I hope you enjoy the recipe T.B. is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 156 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.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CHERRY-BERRY OATMEAL COOKIES
[Makes 3 dozen]
Preparation time: About 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
3/4 cup softened butter or margarine
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups quick or old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup Raisins
1/2 cup soft dried cherries (pitted and cut in halves) and 1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
HEAT oven to 350 F. BEAT butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, egg and vanilla until light and fluffy. COMBINE flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. ADD to butter mixture and mix well. STIR in oats, raisins and nuts, if using. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets. BAKE 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from cookie sheets. COOL on wire racks.
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**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: T.B. is giving away a signed copy of SHENANIGANS to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog. Don’t miss this chance to read this great story. Thanks, T.B., for sharing your story with us!
August 5, 2014
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: A Kiss On Crimson Ranch by Michelle Major
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 KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH by MICHELLE MAJOR
~~~
A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH
By Michelle Major
Book Blurb
Former child star Sara Wellens has hit a dead end in Hollywood. When she inherits half of a crumbling guest ranch in Crimson, Colorado, Sara figures she’ll sell her portion to get back on her own two feet and be back in the black in no time at all. No harm, no foul…right?
The one thing she didn’t count on was her partner-in-property, hunky former bull rider and single dad Josh Travers. Sara is surprised at how quickly she bonds with the charming cowboy and his daughter. But she insists that she’s definitely not looking for a forever family. Can the rancher and the starlet let down their guards to find their own Hollywood happy ending?
A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH
By Michelle Major
Excerpt
Sara didn’t make it back to her cabin until close to eleven, way past her bedtime with the early-morning hours on the ranch. She’d helped April clean up in the kitchen after Brandy and Claire had gone to bed, leaving the guys to relive old stories around the fire pit on the side patio.
To her surprise, Ryan had seemed to find his place in the over-testosteroned group, happily sharing stories of which Hollywood starlets had what body parts surgically enhanced.
She smiled to herself at the stories she could tell if she wanted then jumped at a noise from the trees next to her front door.
“Heart attack central over here,” she squeaked as Josh stepped out of the darkness.
“Sorry.” He didn’t look sorry. He looked big and gorgeous in his soft flannel shirt, faded jeans and boots. A light was on in her cabin, its glow illuminating the front step enough for her to see him clearly.
Late-night stubble shadowed his jaw, defining it even more and making her wonder how that roughness would feel across her skin. She quickly pulled her mind away from that train of thought. No good could come from there.
“Expecting someone else?” he asked.
“Yogi Bear?” she answered, still trying to catch her breath. “Or Grizzly Adams, maybe?”
One corner of his mouth hitched up, matching the catch in her throat. “Noah likes you.”
“I got the impression Noah likes anyone with breasts and a pulse.”
That drew a laugh from him. “Probably. The question is, do you like him?”
Something in his tone of voice put her on edge. “I don’t think that’s any of your business.” She took a step toward her door but he blocked the path.
“It is if you’re going to mix business with pleasure.”
She eyed him for a moment then swallowed, too tired to play games or even put up a fight. “I’m not interested in Noah.”
He watched her.
“Or Manny. Or Bryson.”
He continued to stare.
She huffed out a breath. “I’m not after your friends. Why do I feel like there’s still a problem?”
He blinked several times then mumbled, “Thank you.”
“I’m having trouble following you.”
“For tonight. You made Claire feel comfortable, and I have a feeling you suggested the stupid game to do the same for me.”
“Everyone had fun playing the game,” she said, letting a little temper seep into her voice. “I was just keeping the guests entertained. I’m sure you can handle your own feelings.”
“You’re right—it wasn’t stupid. We did have fun. Because of you.”
The cool night air licked across her bare arms and goose bumps tickled her skin in its wake. She took another deep breath, hoping the scent of the surrounding mountains would calm her. Josh’s gaze fell to her chest, which had the exact opposite effect on her jumbled emotions.
His eyes squeezed shut. “I don’t know how to do this.”
“Do what?”
“Want you so badly and not act on it.”
She knew that feeling. “There are a lot of reasons we shouldn’t be together.”
He nodded but said, “Tell me why I shouldn’t kiss you right now.”
Every shred of rational thought dissolved from her brain. Without meaning to, she swayed a tiny bit closer to him. “I don’t want to.”
“You don’t want to kiss me?”
“I don’t want to give you a reason not to,” she said on a shaky laugh.
He laced his fingers with hers and tugged her closer. With his other hand he cupped the back of her head, bringing her mouth against his. Like before, his kiss mesmerized her. Her defenses, her protective walls—everything inside her loosened and traveled south to parts of her body that hadn’t been lit up for years. Those bits were glowing now as he claimed her, pulling her against him and deepening the kiss.
A shiver ran across her back and he wrapped his arms tightly around her. She snuggled into the heat that radiated from his body, losing herself in his spicy scent.
Tugging at the hem of her T-shirt, his warm hands pressed against her skin for several minutes before his fingers worked at her bra strap. Yes, yes, yes, her reawakened senses shouted in her head. At the same time, a trickle of unease danced across her conscience.
Darned conscience.
She didn’t do casual flings. That was one of the few standards she’d held true to, both in and out of the spotlight. L.A. was filled with relationships built on nothing more than mutual attraction and soul-crushing loneliness. Sara hadn’t given her body or her heart in a moment of weakness in the past. She wasn’t going to let her hormones take over now. She knew how badly that could play out in the morning, and she wouldn’t risk her pride, no matter how good it felt.
The silent snap of her bra opening brought her fully to her right mind.
“Stop.” She wasn’t sure if she’d said the word out loud until Josh’s hands stilled on her waist.
He buried his face in the side of her neck. “Is this what you call a dramatic pause?” he asked, his voice ragged.
“We shouldn’t do this.”
“I hope you mean we should take it inside your cabin instead.”
Sara gave him a small push and he immediately moved back. “I mean the two of us is a bad idea for a lot of reasons.”
“If I’d known you’d actually muster an argument, I’m not sure I would have asked the question.”
“What do you want out of this summer, Josh?”
He tilted his head, massaged his thumb and index finger above his eyes. “Money,” he answered simply.
“Is that all?”
“Give me a break on the twenty questions, Sara. My brain isn’t firing on all cylinders right now.” He sighed. “I want a future for Claire and me. I want this ranch to feel like home for her.”
She nodded and tried not to admit that the truth in his words stung. She was used to not being a priority to anyone, even herself. But it still hurt to hear it out loud. “It’s about Claire for you. For me it’s about a second chance of a different kind.”
In a way, things had been easier in California. The day-to-day struggle to make ends meet had left her little time to ponder the sad state of the rest of her life. Now that she had that time, it was up to her to protect herself. No one else was going to.
She liked to believe that her grandma would have fought for Sara if her mother hadn’t made sure they never returned to Crimson. Maybe her grandmother would have been the positive role model Sara had so desperately needed.
She wanted to think that’s why Gran had left her the house. An olive branch of sorts. Sara had no intention of letting it go to waste.
“I want the money and the fresh start it will give me. I’m going to get it one way or another. Even if that means…”
The lingering heat in his eyes went instantly frosty. “Even if that means crushing my future to guarantee your own.”
About the author, Michelle Major…
Michelle Major grew up in Ohio but dreamed of living in the mountains. Soon after graduating with a degree in Journalism, she pointed her car west and settled in Colorado. Her life and house are filled with one great husband, two beautiful kids, a few furry pets and several well-behaved reptiles. She’s grateful to have found her passion writing stories with happy endings. Michelle loves to hear from her readers at www.michellemajor.com.
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Links to Michelle’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: www.michellemajor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleMajorBooks?ref=hl
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michelle_major1
Amazon: http://amzn.com/0373658338
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**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Michelle is giving away a signed copy of A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH to one lucky reader who comments on her Monday Interview or Wednesday Book Bench blog. Don’t miss this chance to read this great story! Thanks, Michelle, for sharing your new release with us!
August 3, 2014
**Author Peek** Interview with Michelle Major
A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH by MICHELLE MAJOR
**AUTHOR PEEK** Interview
INTRODUCING…Michelle Major!
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.
Thanks so much for having me here, Karen. It’s great to visit with you. I’m from Ohio and although I’ve lived in Colorado over 20 years (and love it here) I’ll always consider myself a Midwesterner at heart. Right now, I’m on pace to write 3-4 books per year which keeps me pretty busy. I used to say I was a full-time ‘wiper’ and while my kids are old enough that I’m off bottom and nose duty, I still do a lot of wiping in my day – fingerprints off the doors, counters, dog nose art on the windows. You name it! When I’m not writing I love to binge read and I try to get the dogs out for a little hike each day – it keeps all of us happy.
1. What genre(s) do you write in and why?
I write contemporary romance – my fourth book for Harlequin Special Edition is out this month. I think my voice and sense of humor lend themselves to contemporary, and I enjoy touching on current real-life issues. I also tend to naturally write shorter stories so category is a great fit for me.
2. What’s your favorite beverage?
Fountain cherry coke, the kind where they add real syrup–although I try to limit the sodas these days. Of course, if you’re from Ohio it’s called ‘pop’.
3. If you had to listen to one song over and over again for a whole day, what would it be?
Funny you should ask, because I totally do that, especially when I find a song that fits the romance for a story I’m writing. My most recent ‘inspiration song’ was Bonfire Heart by James Blunt.
4. What is your least favorite part of writing?
The first sentence. Each time I start a book I wonder, ‘Can I do this again? Will the story come? Will my family survive me checking out when it gets close to deadline?’ But once I get the first three chapters, my love for crafting a love story takes over again.
5. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
My ideal home is somewhere in the mountains with a lot of land and a river running through it for my fisherman husband (if Brad Pitt made an appearance I wouldn’t complain!). I’m near the foothills in Colorado, so I’m lucky to be pretty close right now.
6. Are you an avid reader? When you do read someone else’s writing, what is your favorite genre?
I love to read and like most avid readers, I’ll take anything from a good book to a cereal box. I have a bit of a problem in that when I start a really great book–I can’t put it down until I finish. The older I get, the less late nights agree with me so I try to pace myself. I read across all genres, but my favorite book candy is historical romance.
7. Where do you get the ideas for your stories?
The stories come from everywhere – a snippet of conversation, a couple I see at a restaurant, a news story. Most of the time my inspiration begins with a character and their story, then I build the plot and world around them. I almost see one scene in my head at the beginning.
8. Tell me about your ideal reader .
Oh, gosh – anyone who takes a chance on my books! 
As a newer author, I love getting to know readers, especially when they share with me their experience reading my books. I think one thing that makes romance readers so special is that we all understand the importance of a happy ending and the journey it takes two people to get there.
9. If you were to choose one superpower, what would it be?
I would love to fly.
10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?
My August release, A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH, is the first book in a new series set in the fictional town of Crimson, Colorado outside of the real-life mountain town Aspen. There are so many things I love about the mountains and the west. It’s been a great joy to add so many of my favorite Colorado details into the Crimson stories. There are three more coming in 2015 and I hope readers enjoy this town as much as I do!
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Links to Michelle’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: www.michellemajor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleMajorBooks?ref=hl
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michelle_major1
Amazon: http://amzn.com/0373658338
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BE SURE TO COME BACK to read more about Michelle and her Harlequin Special Edition release, A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench. Happy Reading!
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**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Michelle is giving away a signed copy of A KISS ON CRIMSON RANCH to one lucky reader who comments on her Monday Interview or Wednesday Book Bench blog. Don’t miss this chance to read this great story! Thanks, Michelle, for sharing your new release with us!
August 2, 2014
Congratulations Week 07-14-14 & 07-21-14 Giveaway Winner!
CONGRATULATIONS WEEK 07-14-14 & 07-21-14 GIVEAWAY WINNER!
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s with KEMBERLEE SHORTLAND!!
Giveaway: Kemberlee is giving away a digital copy of the Irish Pride Series to one lucky reader who comments on today’s Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog, Monday Interview or Wednesday Book Bench blog (next week). Thanks, Kemberlee, for sharing your series with us!
WINNER!! SHARON BLACK!!
[All winners chosen by random.org. Thank you.]
July 31, 2014
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Jenna Jaxon
Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **AUTHOR SPECIAL** with JENNA JAXON!
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, JENNA JAXON, and her favorite recipe for PEERES IN CONFYT (Pears in Wine)!
BELEAGUERED
Time Enough to Love, Book Three
By JENNA JAXON
Book Blurb
When death holds sway in the world, can even the greatest love survive?
Finally in France, Alyse and Thomas return to their roles as courtiers to Princess Joanna. Their passion for one another continues to smolder hot and deep—until one fateful encounter changes everything.
During a formal banquet, Alyse must share an intimate dance with Geoffrey, her first love. His searing touch proves Alyse’s love and desire for him is as strong as when they first met. Tormented by this revelation, Alyse is bitterly torn between the love of her life and her love for her husband.
Into this agonizing situation, the disaster of the Black Death rears its head, decimating the princess’s retinue and threatening all their lives. Alyse, Thomas and Geoffrey must try to save the princess from the ravening disease but at a dire cost to themselves. With her world plunged into chaos, Alyse struggles with her feelings for both of the men she loves. But which love will survive?
BELEAGUERED
Time Enough to Love, Book Three
By JENNA JAXON
Excerpt
Thomas rolled over in bed, his eyes fluttering open. He gazed at her, then a frown rent his face. “Why are you dressed so early, my love? ’Tis barely light. I thought sure we had some hours left to ourselves?” He held out his hand to her, and she smiled as she moved to him.
“I am sorry, my love, but the princess bade us all come to her chapel early this morn for special prayers of thanksgiving that the pestilence has seen fit to pass us by. Were it otherwise, I would certainly still be in your bed.” Alyse kissed the hand that entwined hers. “There is nothing short of a royal command would keep me from you.” She leaned over to give him a loving kiss. “When do you meet Geoffrey?”
“He will come fetch me before breakfast so that we may see to some business in the village before the heat of the day sets in.” Thomas stretched and lay back on the pillows. “’Till then I shall lie abed, remembering the sweetness of our night past.”
“You are lazy today, my lord.”
“You have worn me out these last few nights, my lady.”
Alyse looked askance at him and moved back to stand before her husband, hands on hips. “A complaint, Lord Braeton?”
He grinned, a wicked glint in his eyes. “A boast on your behalf, Lady Braeton.”
“Mayhap then tonight we should simply sleep the night away in sweet repose,” she said, with feigned innocence. “I would not have you fatigued and neglect your duties.”
Thomas chuckled and pulled her down to him. “Not while I have breath in my body, sweet Alyse.” He pressed another, more ardent kiss to her mouth.
Loath to leave when he heated her passion thus, Alyse sighed and broke the kiss, moving determinedly toward the door. At the moment, her duty lay with the princess, not her husband. “I will return to you as soon as possible, my love,” she said, blowing him another kiss ere she closed the door.
Determined to concentrate on the task at hand and not her longing to return to Thomas, Alyse made her way to Princess Joanna’s private chapel. She opened the door, hoping the service had not yet begun. As she stepped inside, the complete silence of the place gave her pause. Had she mistaken the time the princess had appointed? There was certainly no one in evidence here, not even the priest who had come with them from England as the princess’s spiritual advisor. Frowning, Alyse left the chapel and walked swiftly toward Joanna’s apartments.
The door to the princess’s chamber was slightly ajar, an unusual sight, and Alyse could hear an odd sound, like a low whimpering, emerging from it. Alyse pushed the door open with trepidation, entered and stopped, transfixed by the tableau before her.
Princess Joanna sat in her accustomed seat in the middle of the room, her eyes wide and staring. Lady Anne stood to her right, wringing her hands, her face contorted in fear—the same look Alyse had seen the day they left Bordeaux. But most terrifying, Lady Mary sat at the princess’s feet, her head in Joanna’s lap, a low moan issuing from her open mouth.
Shocked by this unheard of breach of protocol, Alyse stood, confounded for some moments, before the import of the women’s grief sank in. She swept forward demanding, “Highness, what has happened?”
No one moved. Alyse glanced from Anne’s staring eyes to Princess Joanna’s tear-stained cheeks, her gaze finally coming to rest on Mary’s contorted face.
What is wrong with this goose now? She caterwauls as if…
An icy hand clutched her heart.
No. It cannot be so.
Her mind reeled. She bent and grabbed Mary’s arms then jerked her up almost off the floor. Peering directly in her face, she searched her eyes for the horrible truth she could not bear to hear.
“Geoffrey?” The only word she could summon from a throat that had suddenly gone dry as dust.
About the author…Jenna Jaxon.
Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance. She has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager. A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise. She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets. When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director. She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.
Jenna is a PAN member of Romance Writers of America as well as a member of Chesapeake Romance Writers. Her debut novel, Only Scandal Will Do, is the first in her House of Pleasure series, set in Georgian London. Her medieval novel, Time Enough to Love, is a Romeo & Juliet-esque tale, set at the time of the Black Death.
She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.
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Links to Jenna’s website, blog, books, etc.
http://jennajaxon.wordpress.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenna-Jaxon/146857578723570
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4960704.Jenna_Jaxon
Twitter: @Jenna_Jaxon
Kindle: http://goo.gl/SqsVuU
Nook: http://goo.gl/VTBHvr
I hope you enjoy the recipe Jenna is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!
Karen
P.S. We’re at 155 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.
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Medieval Recipe: Peeres in Confyt (Pears in Wine)
This is a dish from the Medieval cookbook Forme of Cury (edited by S.Pegge)
The modern version is by Daniel Myers.
4 pears
3 cups red wine
water (for poaching)
2 cups sugar
1/2 tsp. ginger
Peel pears, leaving the stems on, and cut a small amount off the bottoms so they will stand upright. Poach in water flavored with one cup of wine. Remove pears from water when they are just tender and place upright in a serving bowl. If desired, slice each pear in halves or quarters leaving about a half inch from the top uncut so the parts will remain attached. Make a syrup of remaining wine, sugar, and ginger. Bring syrup to a boil, reduce heat and allow to simmer. Pour syrup over pears and serve hot.
Pears have a wonderful role in Beleaguered.
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**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Jenna is giving away a copy of both BETROTHAL and BETRAYAL to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog. She’s also giving away a $50 gift card at the end of her blog tour. Be sure to enter her Rafflecopter event, and don’t miss this chance to read these great stories. Thanks, Jenna, for sharing your story with us!
July 29, 2014
Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Irish Inheritance by Paula Martin
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!
IRISH INHERITANCE by PAULA MARTIN
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IRISH INHERITANCE
By Paula Martin
Book Blurb
English actress Jenna Sutton and American artist Guy Sinclair first meet when they jointly inherit a house on the west coast of Ireland. Curious about their unknown benefactress and why they are considered as ‘family’, they discover some surprising links to the original owners of the house.
With the help of local descendants, they unravel an intriguing tale of a nineteenth century love affair. At the same time, their mutual attraction grows, even though they each have personal reasons for not wanting any romantic involvement at this point in their lives.
Problems arise when a local property agent appears to have her own agenda concerning the house. Other events pull them back to their separate lives in London and America, and friction builds between them over their decision about the house and its contents.
Will their Irish inheritance bring them together – or drive them apart?
IRISH INHERITANCE
By Paula Martin
Excerpt
(Guy and Jenna are on their first visit to the house they have inherited. They have learned there is a locked room which hasn’t been opened since the house was abandoned over seventy years earlier. Now they’re about to open the door of this room)
Guy’s smile sent a warm tremor along her veins. “Are you ready for this?”
She inhaled deeply. “Let’s do it.”
“Okay.”
“I can’t imagine what we’re going to find,” she said as they walked along the corridor and past the balustraded landing to the room on the western side of the house.
“Dust and cobwebs?”
“In which case, the first thing we’ll need is a vacuum cleaner.”
“Of course, it might be completely empty.”
Outside the wide oak door, Guy stopped, and Jenna turned to him. “Go on.”
He gave her a wry grin. “I’m not sure whether I’m excited or scared.”
“Scared?”
“For all we know, there might be a dead body in the room.”
Her eyes widened. “Sheesh, I never thought of that.”
“If this was a movie, spooky music would be playing right now.”
“There can’t be a body. It would smell.” She stared at him. “You don’t think—”
He put his arm around her. “You’re too easy, Jenna. I’m kidding you.”
“Oh, you—!” She flicked her fingers across his ribs. “Stop winding me up.”
His hand tightened on her arm, and she leant against his shoulder. It felt good, so good…
“Jenna—”
She twisted her head to look up at him. The gentleness in his eyes, soft as a caress, sent a tsunami wave of heat rushing through her from head to toe. They gazed at each other for what seemed like forever, but could only have been a few seconds.
Guy was the first to break their eye contact. “Let’s open the door, shall we?”
With his arm still around her, he put the key into the lock and struggled to turn it. She’d started to think it must be too stiff to open, when a loud click made all her nerves jump.
He leaned forward to twist the brass doorknob. “Do you want to go in first, or shall I?”
After her wimpish reaction to his earlier joking, she decided on bravado. “Go on, push the door, and I’ll go first, but you’d better be right behind me.”
“In case there’s a skeleton hanging from the chandelier?”
“Stop it!” She dug her elbow into him. “If this door creaks when you push it open, I shall probably scream.”
The door didn’t creak, but opened smoothly. Jenna took a small step into the room and clapped her hand to her mouth.
“Oh my God,” she whispered.
About the author, Paula Martin…
Paula Martin lives near Manchester in North West England and has two daughters and two grandsons.
She had some early publishing success with four romance novels and several short stories, but then had a break from writing while she brought up a young family and also pursued her career as a history teacher for twenty-five years. She has recently returned to writing fiction, after retiring from teaching, and is thrilled to have found publishing success again with her contemporary romances.
Apart from writing, she enjoys visiting new places. She has travelled extensively in Britain and Ireland, mainland Europe, the Middle East, America and Canada. Her other interests include musical theatre and tracing her family history.
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Links to Paula’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: http://paulamartinromances.webs.com
Amazon author page: http://amzn.to/KtlU6Y
Blog: http://paulamartinpotpourri.blogspot.com
Buy links for ‘Irish Inheritance’
USA Amazon http://amzn.to/1fZlqr4
UK Amazon http://amzn.to/1fKiyxq
Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/405113
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**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Paula is giving away a digital copy of IRISH INHERITANCE (PDF or Smashwords Voucher) to one lucky reader who comments on her Monday Interview or Wednesday Book Bench blog. Don’t miss this chance to read these great stories! Thanks, Paula, for sharing your series with us!
July 28, 2014
Killer Book Bench Blog Tour: Under Texas Blue Skies by Debra Holt
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!
~ BLOG TOUR ~
UNDER TEXAS BLUE SKIES by DEBRA HOLT
Reading a good romance was a means of escape for me from my regular daily routine for many years. As countless readers have done, I would finish the book and then think to myself, “I can write a book like that.” Of course, I never actually did put pen to paper…at that time. Fast forward many years into the future, and I am having lunch with my dear friend, Jan. Out of the blue, she asks me a question: “If you could be doing anything you want right now, what would it be?” I responded without hesitation, “I would be in the mountains in a cabin, writing my books.”
Her response was quite simple. “Why aren’t you?” Well, I had to look at that question and before I knew it, I had gone home and sat down in front of the laptop screen. By the end of that weekend, I had put 30,000 words on screen. There was no turning back after that. The stories began to pour forth. Once the first one was completed, the next step was to do something with it. After much thought and research, I decided that the best thing for me was to find an agent who might take me on. Long story short, after 8 months of working with one on the manuscript…edit and re-edit…I was offered representation.
I still have my regular ‘day job.’ The difference is that every spare moment is spent writing yet another story that just won’t stay out of my head. I also made the decision to stay true to a very important caveat in writing. ‘Write what you love to read’…so very true! I love to read contemporary western romances and that is what I write. I grew up with those handsome cowboys and in Texas, females are feisty and have minds of our own! What better combinations for a great read?
Under Texas Blue Skies came about one day as I was thinking about all the great times I had listening to country music and going to those old country dance halls. J.D. Sterling was typical of a young cowboy, with little prospects but lots of talent…most of all, a big dream. He also knew that his only chance was to leave the small Texas town and go after his fortune. The only thing holding him back was the fact he had fallen hard for a girl…Mandy Lawson…with eyes the color of the Texas blue sky and a heart she had given to him almost the moment they had met. Vows of love forever and dreams of a perfect life together soon fell into ashes. J.D. never returned to her, even when he achieved the stardom he sought. Mandy grew up the hard way and put a wall around her heart. Then, one day, J.D. strolls back into town intent on one thing…finding the heart he left behind. Except time changes people and tragedy can strike anyone. Love lost may never be found again.
UNDER TEXAS BLUE SKIES
By Debra Holt
Book Blurb
J.D. Sterling, country music’s sexy superstar, has come home again. He has achieved his wildest dreams and did what he set out to do when he shook the dirt of the small Texas town from his boot heels a dozen years before. Now, he’s returned for the final piece of the puzzle to completing his life….the girl who holds his heart. Mandy.
Amanda Lawson has grown up. From sheer heartbreak to struggling to survive to becoming a shrewd businesswoman, she has taught herself to never look back. She survived once before the wild, green-eyed cowboy with only a guitar to his name and a pocketful of dreams. He took her heart and so much more when he left her behind with his hollow vows.
Mandy was his muse…J.D. was her dream. Despite tragedy, can they find their way home to each other again?
UNDER TEXAS BLUE SKIES
By DEBRA HOLT
Excerpt
J.D. Sterling’s heartbeats were thumping loud as a bass drum at the sight of the red sedan as it pulled into the circular driveway, stopping just behind the other realtor’s Hummer. He had purposely seated himself in a corner of the wide porch, away from the glare of the noonday sun, where climbing vines and shade would enable him to be concealed from the woman’s line of sight. He didn’t want her to know he was there, at least not right away. J.D. needed to see her first, to get his feet under him. At least, that’s the excuse he’d given himself. For someone who always planted his feet solidly in the middle of any situation, this was one time the spotlight was not what he sought. His pulses were racing as he saw the driver’s door swing open, and two slender ankles encased in gray high heels became visible as they touched the ground.
The woman stood up, one hand pushed her sunglasses further up on the bridge of her nose, and then she closed the car door behind her. She slung the straps of her leather bag over her shoulder and moved around the hood of the car, her heels making soft crunching sounds on the pea gravel along the drive. In the early afternoon stillness of the ranch, those sounds seemed to be amplified.
The eyes in the shadows drank in the features of the woman as she moved toward the house. Nowhere in sight was the country girl he had last seen. The vision that approached was confident in her stride, her head up and shoulders resolute. The girl he used to know was just short of being painfully shy and always hesitant to stand out of any crowd. Sunglasses concealed her eyes from view so he couldn’t see if they were still the amazingly vivid blue he remembered and had even immortalized in song once. They had filled his dreams on many a night and gotten him through some really hard times. It was those eyes he would see when he closed his own as he sang across the bright lights into the dark recesses of some huge arena, packed with screaming fans and loud music. He would sing to the girl in his dreams…the one he had left behind but never left out of his heart.
Maybe the girl he had carried in his memory didn’t exist any longer? That thought unnerved him more than he wanted to admit. Had he left things too late? No, it couldn’t be too late. Not for them.
“Hello, Mandy,” he spoke softly from the shadows.
Amanda’s head swung in its direction. Her eyes sought to focus on the tall figure that stepped from darkness into light. She went to take a quick breath but found she couldn’t. In fact, for some reason, the light was receding, and the darkness was swallowing them all up.
About the author, Debra Holt…
Born and raised in the Lone Star state of Texas, Debra grew up among horses, cowboys, wide open spaces, and real Texas Rangers. Pride in her state and ancestry knows no bounds and it is these heroes and heroines she loves to write about the most. She also draws upon a variety of life experiences including working with abused children, caring for baby animals at a major zoo, and owning a wedding planning business (ah, romance!).
Debra’s real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn’t busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance…Janet Dailey’s Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary western romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles…and sighs… to all who believe in happily-ever-after’s.
The Seymour Agency represents Debra and she is soon to have two contemporary romances published by Spencer Hill/Tulip Romance and Astraea Press. Debra invites you to visit her website at www.debraholtbooks.com. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via email at debraholtbooks@gmail.com.
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Links to Debra’s website, blog, books, etc.
Website: www.debraholtbooks.com
Email: debraholtbooks@gmail.com
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