K. Victoria Chase's Blog, page 16
June 22, 2012
TGIF - 5 Swoon-Worthy Nerds
I'm winding down on the highly-anticipated (based on reader comments) sequel to Serial Games, book two in the Virginia Justice series,
Marked by the Mob
. I always craft my heroes as men I'd want to fall for, and since they're usually more of the alpha persuasion, I thought I'd try my hand at a beta. But not just any beta. A nerd. You know, the guy who'd be a great friend but not in a million years...
Then something strange happened. I began to fall for my hero. The Nerd. But I've discovered that this shouldn't come as a surprise, since television has introduced me to five swoon-worthy nerds I'd love to have if I had a chance--and they've been a great guide to modeling the hero--Douglas Fairbanks.
John Crichton - Astronaut (Farscape)
Not only is he gorgeous and built, but this guy is a genius. No, really. He's an astronaut who discovered worm-hole technology that had half the galaxy's aliens chasing after him to suck the knowledge directly from his mind--literally. In his quest to return to earth (after being shot through a worm hole to waaayyy outer space) he proves his skills in brawn matches the abilities of his brain.
Zane Donovan - Hacker (Eureka)
Here's an anomaly. He's a nerd to be sure--a particle physicist with a knack at problem-solving, but he's a man's man (and a ladies man); an alpha. Quick-witted, sometimes dry humor, this brilliant computer hacker and former felon was put to work at Global Dynamics, an advanced research facility employing the most prestigious scientists of the world. Did I mention he's also a physicist?
Fox Mulder - FBI Special Agent (If you don't know the TV show...)
"I want to believe..." In aliens. After witnessing his sister's abduction at a young age, Mulder later becomes a federal agent specializing in the paranormal and unexplained phenomenon. He also has a degree in psychology (summa cum laude from Oxford of all places) and is a profiling genius. Quirky and eccentric, yet his no-nonsense, rational partner, Dana Scully, can't help herself and falls for him.
Rick Castle - Author (Castle)
Okay, I have to throw him in here because placed beside his partner, New York police officer Kate Beckett a-la Nikki Heat, this mystery/thriller writer-turned crime-solver is nerdy on so many levels. He's full of references no one would know, and he's just all around goofy. But he too is an anomaly. Great with the ladies, debonair, smart-aleck...the list goes on.
*Throwback Alert* Clark Kent - Superman (Ditto)
If there's a relationship that defines this post, it's that of Clark Kent and Lois Lane. The mild-mannered reporter--with glasses to boot--who couldn't get the time of day from experienced, hard-hitting news woman Lois. The million-dollar question is, of course, how could Lois pass up a guy who is obviously hot underneath his glasses? Plus, he's smart, a go-getter, a genuinely nice guy, and he saves the world on a daily basis. Come on, Lois, you didn't see that right away?
What do all these guys have in common besides their brains and ingenuity? They get the girl. Imagine that.
So, does Douglas Fairbanks have any of the characteristics these hotties--er, nerds possess? Absolutely. I guess we shouldn't overlook the nerds in our lives. But it sure does help if they can fight, be quick-witted, and look good in a pair of leather pants (thank you Crichton).
Can you name any nerds that have a special place in your heart? *wink*
Then something strange happened. I began to fall for my hero. The Nerd. But I've discovered that this shouldn't come as a surprise, since television has introduced me to five swoon-worthy nerds I'd love to have if I had a chance--and they've been a great guide to modeling the hero--Douglas Fairbanks.
John Crichton - Astronaut (Farscape)
Not only is he gorgeous and built, but this guy is a genius. No, really. He's an astronaut who discovered worm-hole technology that had half the galaxy's aliens chasing after him to suck the knowledge directly from his mind--literally. In his quest to return to earth (after being shot through a worm hole to waaayyy outer space) he proves his skills in brawn matches the abilities of his brain.
Zane Donovan - Hacker (Eureka)
Here's an anomaly. He's a nerd to be sure--a particle physicist with a knack at problem-solving, but he's a man's man (and a ladies man); an alpha. Quick-witted, sometimes dry humor, this brilliant computer hacker and former felon was put to work at Global Dynamics, an advanced research facility employing the most prestigious scientists of the world. Did I mention he's also a physicist?
Fox Mulder - FBI Special Agent (If you don't know the TV show...)
"I want to believe..." In aliens. After witnessing his sister's abduction at a young age, Mulder later becomes a federal agent specializing in the paranormal and unexplained phenomenon. He also has a degree in psychology (summa cum laude from Oxford of all places) and is a profiling genius. Quirky and eccentric, yet his no-nonsense, rational partner, Dana Scully, can't help herself and falls for him.
Rick Castle - Author (Castle)
Okay, I have to throw him in here because placed beside his partner, New York police officer Kate Beckett a-la Nikki Heat, this mystery/thriller writer-turned crime-solver is nerdy on so many levels. He's full of references no one would know, and he's just all around goofy. But he too is an anomaly. Great with the ladies, debonair, smart-aleck...the list goes on.
*Throwback Alert* Clark Kent - Superman (Ditto)If there's a relationship that defines this post, it's that of Clark Kent and Lois Lane. The mild-mannered reporter--with glasses to boot--who couldn't get the time of day from experienced, hard-hitting news woman Lois. The million-dollar question is, of course, how could Lois pass up a guy who is obviously hot underneath his glasses? Plus, he's smart, a go-getter, a genuinely nice guy, and he saves the world on a daily basis. Come on, Lois, you didn't see that right away?
What do all these guys have in common besides their brains and ingenuity? They get the girl. Imagine that.
So, does Douglas Fairbanks have any of the characteristics these hotties--er, nerds possess? Absolutely. I guess we shouldn't overlook the nerds in our lives. But it sure does help if they can fight, be quick-witted, and look good in a pair of leather pants (thank you Crichton).
Can you name any nerds that have a special place in your heart? *wink*
June 20, 2012
REVIEW WEDNESDAY: THROUGH MY EYES
I picked up my copy of Tim Tebow's memoir (haha, in his mid-twenties and already has a memoir--I wonder what mine would say before I turned 22...probably not much), Through My Eyes, at the height of media fame (this winter after his great run with the Broncos) just to learn a bit more about him. I remember seeing the commercial he did with his mother for Focus on the Family during the Superbowl the other year, but other than he was very vocal about his faith, I didn't know much else.
The book details his life before his birth through his first season with the Broncos. He showcases different experiences of his life that taught him to be the hard-working, compassionate, bold-for-Christ person we see exhibited in the media and in football. He credits not only his faith for his positive outlook in life, but also his parents which helped instill that faith in him and nurtured him into the adult he's become. Many times, throughout the book, he referenced scripture verses that helped him through the most difficult times of trying to play football while homeschooled or being injured in college--and the uncertainty of it all--and of course those verses he rejoiced over when the blessings came his way.
I gotta say, Timmy is funny. Sometimes the humor was outright and at other times, subtle. It was those subtle moments that had me laughing out loud. I'd bet a conversation with him would be light-hearted and funny, and just all-around pleasant. Of course, he's never responded to any of my tweets... :-)
If you want an encouraging story (I have to admit, sometimes he shamed me with his work ethic, level of faith, etc...but it won't get you down, I promise) for yourself and/or your children (definitely would recommend this reading to kids) and if you can get past the sometimes confusing football plays, then Through My Eyes is for you. Read it anyway; you'll be glad you did.
The book details his life before his birth through his first season with the Broncos. He showcases different experiences of his life that taught him to be the hard-working, compassionate, bold-for-Christ person we see exhibited in the media and in football. He credits not only his faith for his positive outlook in life, but also his parents which helped instill that faith in him and nurtured him into the adult he's become. Many times, throughout the book, he referenced scripture verses that helped him through the most difficult times of trying to play football while homeschooled or being injured in college--and the uncertainty of it all--and of course those verses he rejoiced over when the blessings came his way.
I gotta say, Timmy is funny. Sometimes the humor was outright and at other times, subtle. It was those subtle moments that had me laughing out loud. I'd bet a conversation with him would be light-hearted and funny, and just all-around pleasant. Of course, he's never responded to any of my tweets... :-)
If you want an encouraging story (I have to admit, sometimes he shamed me with his work ethic, level of faith, etc...but it won't get you down, I promise) for yourself and/or your children (definitely would recommend this reading to kids) and if you can get past the sometimes confusing football plays, then Through My Eyes is for you. Read it anyway; you'll be glad you did.
June 15, 2012
TGIF
This has been a whirlwind of a week! First, I received another stellar review, this time from The Romance Reviews. Next, I was able to host a fabulous new author, Ann Lee Miller, and her Christian romance debut is a hit (thanks to you faithful blog readers)! Now, I'm just beefing up parts of my manuscript, Marked by the Mob, due to my publisher in July. MBM is book two of the Virginia Justice series. I feel a bit of a cold coming on but I can't let that stop me. I have a date tonight or tomorrow night (he's flexible) with
The Huntsman
Yes, this is another shameless post to celebrate male hotness. I'm a romance author, what can you expect? ;-)
Speaking of which, have you discovered the fascinating and hilarious site, Hey Christian Girl? This clever blogger takes pick-up lines, deeply-rooted in scriptural context, and pastes them to photos of male actors. Okay, maybe not deeply-rooted, and possibly nowhere near contextual, but laugh-out-loud funny just the same.
For example:
Confession time: I’d totally say 'yes' if that line was used on me by Paul Walker.
What pick-up lines have worked for (or on) you?
The Huntsman
Yes, this is another shameless post to celebrate male hotness. I'm a romance author, what can you expect? ;-)
Speaking of which, have you discovered the fascinating and hilarious site, Hey Christian Girl? This clever blogger takes pick-up lines, deeply-rooted in scriptural context, and pastes them to photos of male actors. Okay, maybe not deeply-rooted, and possibly nowhere near contextual, but laugh-out-loud funny just the same.
For example:
Confession time: I’d totally say 'yes' if that line was used on me by Paul Walker.
What pick-up lines have worked for (or on) you?
June 11, 2012
WELCOME ANN MILLER! GIVEAWAY!!!!
So much is happening at this blog today! Please welcome Ann Miller, author of the new Christian romance Kicking Eternity . She has graciously offered a FREE copy to a special commentor! Please leave your email and we'll announce the winner on Friday! UPDATE: EVERYONE who comments gets a free copy!!!!!
Not only that, here is the first chapter!
Chapter 1
Raine pushed the beads on her African bracelet back and forth like the balls on an abacus. Her stomach kneaded, gurgled. She could almost feel sweat dampen her upper lip. Drew’s forehead creased as he stared at her. Fluorescent tubes hummed overhead in the night air. Shouts and back-slapping ricocheted around the Canteen porch in the sticky-sweet scent of orange blossoms. If she wasn’t fighting to keep her dinner down, she’d tell him where they’d met.
His frown melted into a smile of recognition. “Rainey. Hey. Welcome to Triple S Camp.”
She bristled at the nickname her brothers used to irritate her. “It’s Raine.”
“I remember you as Rainey from the skit you did in junior high youth group. You cried all over the place—a pun on your name.”
“That was my total acting career… and ancient history. Better off forgotten. Please.”
“Sure, Rainey, whatever you say.”
“Drew!”
“You remember my name.”
“You weren’t exactly low profile either.” She, like every girl in the youth group, had spent way too much time mooning at the high-school-Drew hunched over his guitar.
Jesse, the camp director, gave a shrill blast on his whistle. “Welcome to New Smyrna Beach Surf and Sailing Camp orientation.”
The noise ratcheted down. Thirty staffers in aquamarine shirts settled onto the benches lining the porch. Raine swallowed and unclenched her fingers from the camp handbook. She refused to heave like she had at college orientation four years ago. Her thumb ran over the ridges in her palm where the spiral wire had dug into the flesh. Why had she never been to camp like any normal kid?
A guy in surf shorts and flip-flops came up the steps laughing with the girl beside him. Sunwhite cords of hair, crimped like he’d worn braids, brushed his thick shoulders. He caught Raine staring. The interest crackling in his blue gaze jolted through her. She let her chin-length hair fall like a dark curtain between them. A guy was one complication she didn’t need this summer, not when Africa was nearly in her grasp. Jesse, who’d hired her, dragged a podium across the porch to the snack bar window. He cleared his throat. Out of the corner of her eye, Raine saw the surfer and the girl take seats halfway around the porch.
Jesse read the camp rules and Raine highlighted them with a pink marker. His voice blended with the drone of the crickets. As he launched into the sailing rules, her stomach calmed. Across the dirt road, yellow floodlights bathed a wall of the dark dining hall. The camp office and cabins flanked the building like dark-skinned children marching in a row all the way to the hulking gym. She had Africa on the brain.
Drew’s elbow jarred her ribs. “Rainey, introduce yourself,” he whispered.
She sprang to her feet. “I’m Raine—” She just stopped herself from saying Rainey. “Zigler. I’ll be teaching Bible.” She shot a glare at Drew and sat down with a thump. Was that a snicker coming from somewhere near the snack bar?
Drew’s knee creaked as he rose. “Drew Martin, Rec Director.”
As the adrenalin ebbed, her attention strayed back to the moonlit village of forest-green structures with tarpaper roofs bleached gray by the Florida sun. This would be her home for the next three months. Please, God, I need some friends.
The surfer stood. “I’m Cal Koomer, teaching art for the third summer in a row. Someday I’m going to get a life.” Laughter rippled through the counselors. With a grin Cal slouched onto the bench. His eyes traveled over Raine like she was a Wooster custom surfboard he was thinking about buying.
Her breath caught in her throat, and she looked away.
“Aly Logan.” Cal’s friend wore slacks and a button-down blouse. “I’m the college intern in the camp office.”
Wait, wasn’t Aly her roommate’s name?
After Jesse instructed them on navigating the septic system and handed out the night watch rotation, chatter swelled around Raine.
Drew let out a low whistle. “You’re the hotshot Bible teacher fresh out of college?”
“I’ve been teaching Sunday school for years. It’s not a big deal.”
“I thought the Bible was a big deal.”
“Of course I think the Bible is important or I wouldn’t focus my life on it.” Shyness clipped her words. She’d pay money about now to relax and make normal conversation.
Yellow flecks danced in his eyes. “Just checking.”
His teasing buzzed annoyance through her. “After camp, I’ll be teaching Bible in an
orphanage a couple hours outside Entebbe, Uganda.”
Drew’s golden brows stretched into McDonald’s arches.
Well now, that was better.
The sun-browned kid thwacked Drew’s arm and pushed his Dakine surf cap up on his forehead. “Boss-man, dude—”
Drew turned to talk to his assistant.
Raine twisted the colored beads in her rawhide bracelet. She felt ten again, sitting alone on the edge of Aqua Park Pool while everyone else swam with friends. Her palms sweated. Insects circled between the lights and the rafters. She had to get away from here. A clear shot to the steps off the porch opened up and she darted for them. Someone stepped in her way and she barreled into him.
A thick hand clamped onto her arm. “Whoa, girl!” Cal.
“I’m sorry. What a klutz—”
“Are you okay? Break anything? Need a blood transfusion? Mouth to mouth?”
A nervous laugh tumbled out of her lips. “I’m fine. Fine. Really. You can let go now.”
“I think you look a little rocky.” He grinned at her before he dropped his hand.
Her skin tingled where his grip had been. The citrus scent of Cal’s still-damp hair filled her nostrils. She took a small step back, her leg bumped a bench.
Aly shot a glance at Cal. “There he is.” She spun away, her waist-length ponytail arcing behind her.
Cal swatted Aly’s shoulder blade. “Stay out of trouble.”
Aly waved him off and charged toward a guy who could have modeled for Ocean Pacific. Cal shook his head. “Aly can spot a user at a hundred yards.”
“A user?” Did he mean heroin, crack, crystal meth, or something else altogether?
“Never mind. Let me guess, you were homeschooled.” His tone said she didn’t have a clue about how the rest of the world lived.
She had way more than a clue, but she let it slide. “How did you know?”
“Jesse’s my brother. Awesome source of info on the new hires.”
She peered across the porch at the camp director. Cal and Jesse sported similar Roman noses. People filtered off the porch. A group stood under the gazebo debating whether affection for Twilight would impair one’s spiritual life. Several yards away, Aly pulled the clip from her hair and shook it free. Ocean Pacific’s eyes locked on the strands. Raine needed to say something, anything. Or escape. She glanced over her shoulder at Drew, but he still talked with his assistant. She turned toward the steps. “See you around.”
“I’ll walk you to your cabin.”
She drew in a shaky breath. What was his agenda? She didn’t want to deal with his disdain when she was a breath from total freak-out.
Cal fell into step with her on the dirt road leading past the cabins. “So, Raine Zigler, where does the homeschooling path lead?”
“Where do you think I’m going?”
“Testy, are we?”
She softened her voice. “Where am I going?”
“Homeschool, college, camp Bible teacher—the natural next step is Christian school teacher. Marriage to a guy with a similar pedigree, babies, homeschooling. The circle of life is complete.”
“Actually, I’m going to Africa.”
He stopped. Fine white lines spoked the corners of his eyes as he stared at her.
“I’ve wanted to be a missionary to Africa my whole life.”
Cal’s jaw went rigid under a day’s shadow of beard. “Hardcore Christian.”
Her heart knocked a staccato rhythm in her chest, but she couldn’t look away. “Meaning?”
“Untried.”
“I live in the same world you do. I’m challenged every day.”
Cal’s laugh rang hollow. “Right.”
“Fine. Think what you want.” She started to turn, but his gaze seared through her. Maybe he could see. She certainly felt untried at the moment.
“Come out to the beach with me and Aly some night after campfire.”
She broke away from his gaze and headed toward her cabin. She glanced back at him. “Aly, your girlfriend?” The words flew out of her mouth before she could rein them in.
“A sibling I inherited through marriage. Jesse is married to her sister.”
Adrenaline mainlined through her body. For sure he thought she was into him. “What’s your road?”
“I was king of the monkey bars in second grade. I’d balance one foot on each of the highest bars—until the teacher made me get down. That was pretty much the high point of my life. Been trying to get back there ever since.”
She stopped in front of her cabin. “Figuratively?”
“Well, yeah. I want to be Harry Morgan.”
“Who?”
“Owner of Pink Taco Restaurants. Under thirty. Dates starlets. I want to have my picture in People. Top of the monkey bars.”
She paused on the first step and looked at him. Am I supposed to know this guy?
Never mind.
Raine moved up the steps feeling as ignorant as Cal thought she was.
“Later.”
“Wait.” Yellow porch light warmed his cheeks but left his eyes in shadow.
“I-I’d like to hear about Triple S from someone who knows the camp.”
Cal shrugged. “That would be me. Been coming here most of my life.”
“Is it easy to get to know people?”
“Homeschooling leave you short on friends?”
She gave a dry laugh. “I spent my childhood with my nose pressed against the living room window watching the other kids catch the school bus.” She sat on the top step, eye level with Cal. “Commuting three hours a day to college wasn’t a whole lot better.”
“You could do worse for a place to dive into life. I’ve ditched most of the rules and religion I grew up with. But I still love this place. The people.”
“How did you snag a job at a Christian camp feeling the way you do about faith?”
“Nepotism is alive and well at the Triple S. Jesse, no doubt, thinks camp will boomerang me back to God.”
“Would you talk a camper out of his faith?”
“Jesse should’ve had you interview me.”
“Well?”
“What’s the point of wrecking a kid’s faith? Maybe I was happier when I swallowed everything I was taught. I don’t know.” He laughed. “You, on the other hand, have the primo resume. Wannabe missionary. And I bet Jesse got you for cheap fresh out of college. Mom would do cartwheels around the yard if I ever brought home a girl like you.”
“You say that like I’m the last girl on the planet you’d bring home.”
“Pretty much.” He held up his hands. “Don’t get me wrong. You’re beautiful—high cheekbones, ivory skin, internal sparklers behind your eyes. Just not my type. Naïve. Über.”
She sling-shotted from euphoria to irritation. “I don’t know whether to be awed you noticed all that in two minutes under fluorescent light—”
“I’m an artist. It’s what I do.”
“Don’t spoil it—or should I be insulted that you’ve smacked a naïve label on me.”
“Look, there’s no way a girl who was homeschooled can survive in the real world.” He shifted position, and she could see his grin. “Educating you this summer could be a public service.”
“I can hardly wait.”
“Oooh. The Bible teacher does sarcasm.” He waved and stepped away from the cabin. “A public service, I’m telling you.” Cal’s voice trailed off as he moved away. Raine slipped inside. She inhaled the metallic scent of old screen and watched Cal disappear around the corner of the last cabin.
He was a spinning vat of colors. Part of her wanted to jump in and twirl around. Part of her wanted to sprint for the gate out of camp.
He’d called her beautiful.
#
Cal shook his head and chuckled to himself as he strode away. Educating Raine was going to be serious fun.
He crossed the athletic field. Tomorrow the rectangle would fill up with sound and children and color. The anticipation he’d felt as a kid welled up in him. A breeze ruffled the pines beside the gym in the moonlight. Cal’s eyes caught a flash of blond hair, a couple making out in the shadows near the gym doors. Aly. Nobody else had hair that long. And likely Garner Fritz, the guy she’d bee-lined toward on the Canteen porch.
Aly had gone out with a long succession of guys, trying to find one to plug into the place her father left empty. It didn’t take a psychologist to figure that out. He picked up a rock, tossed it in his hand. Aly’s love language was touch. He’d heard Dad preach on the topic back when he used to listen. Cal made a point of touching Aly in a platonic way whenever they were together, but it hadn’t kept her from going out with jerks like Gar Fritz.
He tossed the stone again and fired it at the side of the gym. It smacked against the bark siding ten feet from the couple. Aly and Gar sprang apart a heartbeat before Cal ducked out of sight.
Maybe that would help.
#
Raine dropped a pair of shorts into the scarred dresser drawer. The screen door squeaked open, then slapped shut against the doorframe. Aly breezed into the room looking like a Barbie whose hair had been bunched into a clip by a small child. A smudge of lipstick clung to one corner of her mouth.
Raine smiled at her. “Hey.”
“Oh, it’s you.” Aly blew her breath out and ran an appraising look over Raine. Her gaze stopped on the crook of Raine’s arm.
Raine scooped a quilt over her scar. She forced a smile into her voice. “Which bunk do you want?”
“I’ll take the top.” She snagged Raine’s dog-eared Bible off the upper bunk and tossed it onto the plastic mattress below. “How did I score the Bible teacher?”
Raine gritted her teeth. “I’m not ‘the Bible teacher.’ I’m Raine.” She would make friends this summer. With Aly. “I’ve got three older brothers, a psychotic Great Dane named Antoine, and my favorite show is Lost.”
A wry smile broke out on Aly’s face. “Lost. Isn’t that what you call people like me?”
“Are you?”
Aly nibbled off the rest of her lipstick. “In my sister’s opinion.”
“And in yours?”
“I know exactly where I’m going and how to get there. I’m half-way to a BA in marketing and I will own my own business before I’m twenty-five.”
Raine started to answer, but Aly cut her off. “This is where you tell me I’m going to hell.”
God, give me patience. “Look, I don’t know where all your drama is coming from, but I’m not the enemy. I could use a friend. If you don’t want to talk about God, fine.”
“Maybe I don’t need another friend.” But Aly’s voice had lost its hard edge.
“Let’s say we’ll try to get along since we’re stuck in the same room for the summer.”
Aly eyed her for a long moment. “Done.” She reached a slim-boned hand out to Raine. Raine’s fingers tightened around Aly’s.
“So, you have the hots for Cal, huh?”
Blurb:
Fresh from college, Raine scores a teaching job at New Smyrna Beach Surf and Sailing Camp. A crush on the camp rebel/art teacher threatens to derail her plans to teach orphans in Africa. The broody recreation director spots her brother's meth addiction and Raine's enabling. Raine believes she is helping her brother--until lives are threatened.
Buy Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Kicking-Eternity-ebook/dp/B0082GF8CE/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1339427524&sr=1-1
Bio:
Ann Lee Miller earned a BA in creative writing from Ashland (OH) University and writes full-time in Phoenix, but left her heart in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she grew up. She loves speaking to young adults and guest lectures on writing at several Arizona colleges. When she isn’t writing or muddling through some crisis—real or imagined—you’ll find her hiking in the Superstition Mountains with her husband or meddling in her kids’ lives.
SERIAL GAMES IS TOP PICK!!!
OFFICIAL REVIEW
Book Reviewed by CozyReader (reviewer)[ Review Posted: Jun 11, 2012 ] - See all my reviews
Will Deputy US Marshal Worth be able to finally let God into his heart again and begin to live, as well as let another woman into his heart before its too late for Special Agent Weston?
Special Agent Margaret Weston, FBI, believes that the case that made her has been closed forever only to receive news of his escape. Nightmares return of those cold black eyes and she believes that he will return, for he has unfinished business with one eyewitness that evaded death by his hands. So now her only choice is to return and start from scratch on his profile. Only this time he is playing a game with her. Will she figure it out before it's too late or will her emotions interfere with her profile of the serial killer, Michael Burrows?
Deputy US Marshal Brandon Worth has demons that he has to deal with, but before anything, he needs to let God back into his heart. When he comes face to face with a beautiful woman, his heart stutters, but he can't fall back in love with another woman especially after Emily. But no matter how much distance he puts between them, Maggie amazes him. Emily and Maggie are so different, but that just intrigues him even more. Then one night, as they were heading to their rooms, he kisses her. He knows he is in trouble especially after the second kiss, but after that they get a break in the case, and they both have to put all feelings aside and deal with the serial killer.
Michael Burrows killed nine women but none have been found with the exception of one person. The profile that Maggie created on him pinpointed that he killed women that looked like his mother. After his escape, he does plan to go back home and knows that Special Agent Margaret Weston from the FBI will follow. Let the games begin.
SERIAL GAMES was a very exciting game between a serial killer and an FBI agent. The chemistry between Brandon and Maggie is exciting and sensual. You know that they want each other but they evade each other until they can't take it any longer. Ms. Chase does a wonderful job with the amount of detail in how cases are looked at, how they go about looking for evidence, and how they develop a sixth sense in their job. This book really grabbed me from the beginning to the very end; I wanted to jump up and down because Brandon finally seemed to open up. I could not have asked for more in this book, as the characters were made for each other and I treasured their time together even under the circumstances they were in.
If you're looking for an exciting book packed full of suspense and mystery, then this is for you. I can't wait for the next book, Virginia Justice Book Two: Marked by the Mob. I promise this will fulfill your reading needs with excitement and romance.
June 4, 2012
GIVEAWAY WINNER!
Congratulations to
Jessica
Winner of a free, signed copy of Wildflowers from Winter . Enjoy!
June 1, 2012
5 HEART REVIEW FOR SERIAL GAMES!!!
I'm so stoked that I received a 5 Heart review from The Romance Studio! Serial Games is in the running for best 5 Heart Sweetheart review. Please vote!!!
Virginia Justice Book One: Serial GamesK. Victoria Chase
Romantic suspense
Available from Desert Breeze Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-61252-146-6
March 2012
Special Agent Maggie Weston is one of the FBI's best profilers. But she's going to have to be at the top of her game to solve her latest case which involves a man she once put behind bars and who has now escaped federal custody. US Marshal Brandon Worth has been tasked with tracking a fugitive that has escaped custody. But he needs all the help he can get so he approaches the very woman that put the criminal behind bars in the first place.
Although I found the plot a little slow to start off with, I really enjoyed it because of its mix of danger, passion and suspense. The introduction of the two main characters was great, as was the dialogue between both the main characters and the secondary ones. It showed how much Maggie's team respected her, and how Brandon always had to be in control of every situation although Maggie made that impossible for him at times as she considered them equals. The sex scenes were hot, however, I thought with the sizzling attraction between them that they would have delved into it a lot sooner but I guess one can't rush love. What I liked so much about the heroine was her ability to focus on the task at hand even though the case was a tough one. While with Brandon, I liked how he finally learned to accept that Maggie was his equal and that they could get the fugitive back if they worked together instead of against each other.
Overall, Ms. Chase has done a marvellous job of penning this intriguing, suspense filled novel and I can't wait to read more of this series in the future of which the release of book two is not too far away.
Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Bec
May 26, 2012
*'Sex scenes' is synonymous with kissing as there is kissing (but no sex) in my book.
Virginia Justice Book One: Serial GamesK. Victoria ChaseRomantic suspense
Available from Desert Breeze Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-61252-146-6
March 2012
Special Agent Maggie Weston is one of the FBI's best profilers. But she's going to have to be at the top of her game to solve her latest case which involves a man she once put behind bars and who has now escaped federal custody. US Marshal Brandon Worth has been tasked with tracking a fugitive that has escaped custody. But he needs all the help he can get so he approaches the very woman that put the criminal behind bars in the first place.
Although I found the plot a little slow to start off with, I really enjoyed it because of its mix of danger, passion and suspense. The introduction of the two main characters was great, as was the dialogue between both the main characters and the secondary ones. It showed how much Maggie's team respected her, and how Brandon always had to be in control of every situation although Maggie made that impossible for him at times as she considered them equals. The sex scenes were hot, however, I thought with the sizzling attraction between them that they would have delved into it a lot sooner but I guess one can't rush love. What I liked so much about the heroine was her ability to focus on the task at hand even though the case was a tough one. While with Brandon, I liked how he finally learned to accept that Maggie was his equal and that they could get the fugitive back if they worked together instead of against each other.
Overall, Ms. Chase has done a marvellous job of penning this intriguing, suspense filled novel and I can't wait to read more of this series in the future of which the release of book two is not too far away.
Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Bec
May 26, 2012
*'Sex scenes' is synonymous with kissing as there is kissing (but no sex) in my book.
May 30, 2012
WELCOME DEBUT AUTHOR KATIE GANSHERT!
I'm at two places at once today! Be sure to visit author Crystal Kelly's site where she is interviewing me!!!
I'm pleased to have debut Christian romance author Katie Ganshert on my blog today. Katie, thank you for stopping by and chatting with us.
Can you tell us a little about your writing journey?
I’ve always loved writing. While most kids were playing with friends or watching TV, I was laying in bed with a pencil and a notebook, filling the pages with half-finished stories. But the dream of being a published novelist didn’t really start until after I traveled to Kenya to do HIV/AIDS outreach. I returned from that trip with a story inside of me. So I wrote my first novel. Even so, I didn’t know much about anything—either the craft or the industry. It wasn’t for another five and a half years before I got “The Call” from my agent.
Five and a half years! That's a long time. How did you feel when you got 'The Call' that you would be a published author?
I wrote a blog post all about the entire experience, titled A Wait Well Worth It. The feeling was pretty indescribable, which is saying a lot from a writer. It was a heady combination of gratitude, excitement, disbelief, joy, awe, and relief. It’s a crazy thing, when dreams come true. A crazy, wonderful thing.
I've read that post. Fantastic story. What is the easiest/most difficult thing about being a writer?
The easiest? Sitting in the chair and putting my hands on the keyboard on days when inspiration flows so fast I can’t catch it all.
The hardest? Sitting in the chair and putting my hands on the keyboard on days when inspiration refuses to cooperate.
What was the inspiration behind Wildflowers from Winter?
I was up in the wee hours of the night, nursing my young son, when the voice of this twelve year old girl came into my head and would not leave. So I sat down and wrote the prologue, having no idea what the rest of the story would be about. Around this same time, I was thinking a lot about my best friend growing up and how we had lost touch throughout the years. I knew I wanted to tell a story that explored the bonds of friendship, so I took this orphaned prologue and this idea about friendship, squished them together, and Wildflowers from Winter was born.
Did you grow up in a small town, and if so, did that influence the setting of Wildflowers? What else influenced the characters/story?
I grew up in an average sized town. Nothing as small and intimate as Peaks. But I definitely have been to my fair share of small towns and I’ve spent almost all of my life in eastern Iowa, so that definitely influenced the setting.
It’s hard to tease apart specific things that influenced the characters and the story. One thing that really helped me portray Robin’s grief throughout the novel was a book called The Tender Scar by Richard Mabry. The words in that book deeply influenced how I wrote Robin’s character.
Speaking of Robin... Can you give us a teaser for your next book? Will any of the characters in Wildflowers return?
Yep! Wishing on Willows will release March 19, 2013 and almost all of the characters will make an appearance. Robin becomes the main character. This is her story. Her time to shine. Bethany and Evan are minor characters, but hopefully the reader will enjoy seeing them again.
As far as a teaser, I can tell you that the story opens four years into the feature. Willow Tree Café is struggling, but up and running. And Robin’s on a reluctant journey that involves letting go and embracing this messy thing we call life.
I can't wait to read Robin's story! What was the best writing advice you received?
Think of a book you would love to read—a book that would keep you up at night, flipping pages—then write that book. Such simple advice, but so true. It’s exactly what I set out to do every time I embark on a new novel.
Katie, thank you again for joining us and--you guessed it--giving away a FREE SIGNED copy of your book! Readers, just leave a comment and your email address below from now through Sunday and I'll announce the winner on Monday. You can read my review of Wildflowers here.
Blurb:
Bethany Quinn was happy to leave her small town ten years ago to create a new, successful life. But when tragedies strike at home, she is forced to return and face the pain of her childhood. Out of options, Bethany tries to find a place where love and faith make sense again.
Bio:
Katie Ganshert was born and raised in the Midwest, where she writes stories about finding faith and falling in love. When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, she enjoys watching movies with her husband, playing make-believe with her wild-child of a son, and chatting with her girlfriends over bagels. She and her husband are in the process of adopting from the Congo. You can find her online at her blog and on facebook.
Buy Links:
Amazon Kindle
Amazon Paperback
Barnes and Noble
I'm pleased to have debut Christian romance author Katie Ganshert on my blog today. Katie, thank you for stopping by and chatting with us.Can you tell us a little about your writing journey?
I’ve always loved writing. While most kids were playing with friends or watching TV, I was laying in bed with a pencil and a notebook, filling the pages with half-finished stories. But the dream of being a published novelist didn’t really start until after I traveled to Kenya to do HIV/AIDS outreach. I returned from that trip with a story inside of me. So I wrote my first novel. Even so, I didn’t know much about anything—either the craft or the industry. It wasn’t for another five and a half years before I got “The Call” from my agent.
Five and a half years! That's a long time. How did you feel when you got 'The Call' that you would be a published author?
I wrote a blog post all about the entire experience, titled A Wait Well Worth It. The feeling was pretty indescribable, which is saying a lot from a writer. It was a heady combination of gratitude, excitement, disbelief, joy, awe, and relief. It’s a crazy thing, when dreams come true. A crazy, wonderful thing.
I've read that post. Fantastic story. What is the easiest/most difficult thing about being a writer?
The easiest? Sitting in the chair and putting my hands on the keyboard on days when inspiration flows so fast I can’t catch it all.
The hardest? Sitting in the chair and putting my hands on the keyboard on days when inspiration refuses to cooperate.
What was the inspiration behind Wildflowers from Winter?
I was up in the wee hours of the night, nursing my young son, when the voice of this twelve year old girl came into my head and would not leave. So I sat down and wrote the prologue, having no idea what the rest of the story would be about. Around this same time, I was thinking a lot about my best friend growing up and how we had lost touch throughout the years. I knew I wanted to tell a story that explored the bonds of friendship, so I took this orphaned prologue and this idea about friendship, squished them together, and Wildflowers from Winter was born.
Did you grow up in a small town, and if so, did that influence the setting of Wildflowers? What else influenced the characters/story?
I grew up in an average sized town. Nothing as small and intimate as Peaks. But I definitely have been to my fair share of small towns and I’ve spent almost all of my life in eastern Iowa, so that definitely influenced the setting.
It’s hard to tease apart specific things that influenced the characters and the story. One thing that really helped me portray Robin’s grief throughout the novel was a book called The Tender Scar by Richard Mabry. The words in that book deeply influenced how I wrote Robin’s character.
Speaking of Robin... Can you give us a teaser for your next book? Will any of the characters in Wildflowers return?
Yep! Wishing on Willows will release March 19, 2013 and almost all of the characters will make an appearance. Robin becomes the main character. This is her story. Her time to shine. Bethany and Evan are minor characters, but hopefully the reader will enjoy seeing them again.
As far as a teaser, I can tell you that the story opens four years into the feature. Willow Tree Café is struggling, but up and running. And Robin’s on a reluctant journey that involves letting go and embracing this messy thing we call life.
I can't wait to read Robin's story! What was the best writing advice you received?
Think of a book you would love to read—a book that would keep you up at night, flipping pages—then write that book. Such simple advice, but so true. It’s exactly what I set out to do every time I embark on a new novel.
Katie, thank you again for joining us and--you guessed it--giving away a FREE SIGNED copy of your book! Readers, just leave a comment and your email address below from now through Sunday and I'll announce the winner on Monday. You can read my review of Wildflowers here.
Blurb:
Bethany Quinn was happy to leave her small town ten years ago to create a new, successful life. But when tragedies strike at home, she is forced to return and face the pain of her childhood. Out of options, Bethany tries to find a place where love and faith make sense again.
Bio:
Katie Ganshert was born and raised in the Midwest, where she writes stories about finding faith and falling in love. When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, she enjoys watching movies with her husband, playing make-believe with her wild-child of a son, and chatting with her girlfriends over bagels. She and her husband are in the process of adopting from the Congo. You can find her online at her blog and on facebook.
Buy Links:
Amazon Kindle
Amazon Paperback
Barnes and Noble
May 17, 2012
REJECTION: LESSONS LEARNED
I was recently invited to revise and resubmit a manuscript to a very well-known publisher. After months of wishing and hoping and thinking and praying, planning and dreaming each night of a book deal--ahem, I was REJECTED. Below are three lessons learned.
1. Be Objective
The revision letter was pages long, and even though I was basically told to re-write the whole novel (which I did), and after meeting with a well-known, multi-published, award winning author who told me to follow the revisions since receiving that chance from this publisher was rare, and even after fighting for months because I didn't want to revise, I did it--only to be rejected--I've come to my first conclusion: The pigeon hole may not be that small. Look, a publisher is looking for something specific to meet their line; it doesn't mean my story isn't going to work for another publisher. The editor was kind enough to say in her rejection letter that my writing would definitely "make a splash."
Taking an objective look at your writing is what we all need to do as we grow and perfect our craft. I was happy to have done so, even though I received a rejection after months of waiting--not bitter, trust me. :-)
2. Don't Misread Your Gut
When I finished revising, I had an insane feeling of accomplishment. I thought, this is going to be accepted . I had written a far better novel and there was NO WAY this would be rejected, at least by this particular publisher. HAHAHAHA. Look, instead of thinking "this is the one," say to yourself, "this is the better novel that I should have written first." This definitely helped in softening the blow of rejection because I now know I would have had to fake it 'till I made it never queried/submitted the other version if I had also had this totally new, cool one.
3. Tomorrow Is Another Day--Or Just End This One With A Bang
The same day I received that rejection, I had four more publishers lined up. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Would I have loved to say I was offered a contract by that publisher? Absolutely. Have I lost my shot at accepting a contract? Absolutely not. Other publishers are out there just waiting for your work. I felt re-energized, re-vitalized even, now that I could move forward. I'm psyched to be submitting my work to other publishers; you don't know what kind of doors will be opened.
Oh rejection, where is thy sting? Hmm, that's not it--oh, wait...YES, IT IS.
Have you had the pleasure of being rejected? If so, what lessons did you learn?
1. Be Objective
The revision letter was pages long, and even though I was basically told to re-write the whole novel (which I did), and after meeting with a well-known, multi-published, award winning author who told me to follow the revisions since receiving that chance from this publisher was rare, and even after fighting for months because I didn't want to revise, I did it--only to be rejected--I've come to my first conclusion: The pigeon hole may not be that small. Look, a publisher is looking for something specific to meet their line; it doesn't mean my story isn't going to work for another publisher. The editor was kind enough to say in her rejection letter that my writing would definitely "make a splash."
Taking an objective look at your writing is what we all need to do as we grow and perfect our craft. I was happy to have done so, even though I received a rejection after months of waiting--not bitter, trust me. :-)
2. Don't Misread Your Gut
When I finished revising, I had an insane feeling of accomplishment. I thought, this is going to be accepted . I had written a far better novel and there was NO WAY this would be rejected, at least by this particular publisher. HAHAHAHA. Look, instead of thinking "this is the one," say to yourself, "this is the better novel that I should have written first." This definitely helped in softening the blow of rejection because I now know I would have had to fake it 'till I made it never queried/submitted the other version if I had also had this totally new, cool one.
3. Tomorrow Is Another Day--Or Just End This One With A Bang
The same day I received that rejection, I had four more publishers lined up. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Would I have loved to say I was offered a contract by that publisher? Absolutely. Have I lost my shot at accepting a contract? Absolutely not. Other publishers are out there just waiting for your work. I felt re-energized, re-vitalized even, now that I could move forward. I'm psyched to be submitting my work to other publishers; you don't know what kind of doors will be opened.
Oh rejection, where is thy sting? Hmm, that's not it--oh, wait...YES, IT IS.
Have you had the pleasure of being rejected? If so, what lessons did you learn?
REJECTION: LESSONS LEARNED
I was recently invited to revise and resubmit a manuscript to a very well-known publisher. After months of wishing and hoping and thinking and praying, planning and dreaming each night of a book deal--ahem, I was REJECTED. Below are three lessons learned.
1. Be Objective
The revision letter was pages long, and even though I was basically told to re-write the whole novel (which I did), and after meeting with a well-known, multi-published, award winning author who told me to follow the revisions since receiving that chance from this publisher was rare, and even after fighting for months because I didn't want to revise, I did it--only to be rejected--I've come to my first conclusion: The pigeon hole may not be that small. Look, a publisher is looking for something specific to meet their line; it doesn't mean my work isn't going to work for another publisher. The editor was kind enough to say in her letter that my writing would definitely "make a splash."
Taking an objective look at your writing is what we all need to do as we grow and perfect our craft. I was happy to have done so, even though I received a rejection after months of waiting--not bitter, trust me. :-)
2. Don't Misread Your Gut
When I finished revising, I had an insane feeling of accomplishment. I thought, this is going to be accepted . I had written a far better novel and there was NO WAY this would be rejected, at least by this particular publisher. HAHAHAHA. Look, instead of thinking "this is the one," say to yourself, "this is the better novel that I should have written first." This definitely helped in softening the blow of rejection because I now know I would have had to fake it 'till I made it never queried/submitted the other version if I had also had this totally new, cool one.
3. Tomorrow Is Another Day--Or Just End This One With A Bang
The same day I received that rejection, I had four more publishers lined up. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Would I have loved to say I was offered a contract by that publisher? Absolutely. Have I lost my shot at accepting a contract? Absolutely not. Other publishers are out there just waiting for your work. I felt re-energized, re-vitalized even, now that I could move forward. I'm psyched to be submitting my work to other publishers; you don't know what kind of doors will be opened.
Oh rejection, where is thy sting? Hmm, that's not it--oh, wait...YES, IT IS.
Have you had the pleasure of being rejected? If so, what lessons did you learn?
1. Be Objective
The revision letter was pages long, and even though I was basically told to re-write the whole novel (which I did), and after meeting with a well-known, multi-published, award winning author who told me to follow the revisions since receiving that chance from this publisher was rare, and even after fighting for months because I didn't want to revise, I did it--only to be rejected--I've come to my first conclusion: The pigeon hole may not be that small. Look, a publisher is looking for something specific to meet their line; it doesn't mean my work isn't going to work for another publisher. The editor was kind enough to say in her letter that my writing would definitely "make a splash."
Taking an objective look at your writing is what we all need to do as we grow and perfect our craft. I was happy to have done so, even though I received a rejection after months of waiting--not bitter, trust me. :-)
2. Don't Misread Your Gut
When I finished revising, I had an insane feeling of accomplishment. I thought, this is going to be accepted . I had written a far better novel and there was NO WAY this would be rejected, at least by this particular publisher. HAHAHAHA. Look, instead of thinking "this is the one," say to yourself, "this is the better novel that I should have written first." This definitely helped in softening the blow of rejection because I now know I would have had to fake it 'till I made it never queried/submitted the other version if I had also had this totally new, cool one.
3. Tomorrow Is Another Day--Or Just End This One With A Bang
The same day I received that rejection, I had four more publishers lined up. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Would I have loved to say I was offered a contract by that publisher? Absolutely. Have I lost my shot at accepting a contract? Absolutely not. Other publishers are out there just waiting for your work. I felt re-energized, re-vitalized even, now that I could move forward. I'm psyched to be submitting my work to other publishers; you don't know what kind of doors will be opened.
Oh rejection, where is thy sting? Hmm, that's not it--oh, wait...YES, IT IS.
Have you had the pleasure of being rejected? If so, what lessons did you learn?
