C.A. Szarek's Blog, page 10
November 1, 2013
Friday Feature: Jorja Lovett With 10 Reasons to Love Rory!
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I cannot explain adequately how excited I am about this book! Jorja is a friend of mine, and I ADORE this series, and have been anticipating book 2 for a long time.
The hero, Rory, stole my heart in book one (The Wolf on the Hill-GET IT NOW! LOL)
So, I'm turning things over to Jorja, who's going to share with us 10 reasons to love Rory. (only 10? There are like WAY more. HEHEHE)
Like me, Chrissy has had a bit of a crush on Rory since book one of my series, The Wild Irish Wolves. I think she was joking when she suggested I write a '10 Reasons Rory's Hot' post to celebrate the release of his story, The Wolf on the Run. But it's a great excuse to drool over him again, so…
10 Reasons Rory's Hot 1. He's the Alpha. 2. He's a policeman. Hello…a man in uniform! 3. There's nothing as sexy as a man who's good with kids. The scene with the baby in The Wolf on the Hill melted many a reader's heart. 4. Family is important to him. He looks out for his sister and everyone else in the pack. 5. He'll fight for those he loves. 6. Tall dark and handsome. And in my head he looks like Joe Manganiello. Yum! 7. He's a one woman man and he's had his sights on Naomi Duffy since she came to town. 8. Stamina! Let's just say he could give a girl the night of her life. (That Naomi's a lucky bitch!) 9. He's generous to a fault. His house is open to anyone who needs a place to stay and he'll do anything to help out. 10. His sense of humour. How many upstanding officers of the law would get their kit off in a pub just for a laugh?
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**Editor's note. I LOVE this cover! ADORE!***Blurb:
Alpha Rory is determined to protect his pack, including feisty Naomi. How can he get close when she's intent on facing her demons alone?
As a police officer and Alpha of the Olcan Hills' pack, being a protector is in Rory Blake's DNA. When Naomi Duffy turned up heavily pregnant and alone, Rory's natural instinct was to look after her. However, her fierce need for independence over the years has ensured they've never been anything more than friends. Naomi has spent too long trying to keep her daughter safe to jeopardise everything for a fling. But, when her past threatens to catch up with her, Rory is the only person she trusts with her life. Thrown together, the couple finally succumb to their passion and it's all too easy to forget the danger lurking in the hills. Do Rory and Naomi have a future together, or will secrets from the past tear them apart?
Excerpt:
Naomi came after Rory, pitting her stealthy grace against his sheer power. In his peripheral vision, he could see the wisps of her breath spiralling into the cold air as she forged ahead, determined to catch him. Rory snorted, sending his own white breath curling up into the atmosphere.
He led her over the hills, their claws making short work of carving up the cold, hard terrain. Naomi never lost ground. Even when he made a turn towards the woods on the boundary, she kept pace.
The chase awakened something deep inside him—that animal freedom with no responsibilities except the survival of himself and his pack. The spiky silhouettes of barren trees lined his path, like broad strokes of a black marker pen scratched against the silver sky.
He dodged in and out, never slowing, with Naomi always in pursuit. Occasionally, a pair of woodland eyes blinked at him from the darkness—a rabbit, a fox, observing their bizarre courtship.
Rory had no doubt the exhilaration of their illicit run would end in wild sex between him and Naomi. It was like a very enthusiastic bout of foreplay without actual touching.
They crunched through the leaf-littered forest floor until he tired of being the hunted. He looped back the way they came and stopped in a clearing. In all aspects of life he preferred to be the one doing the chasing, but at this moment in time he wanted nothing more than to be caught.
He shifted back into his naked, horny self. Naomi came to a skidding halt seconds later, scooting a bundle of leaves over his bare feet. “You can run, wolf lady, I'll give you that. Now can we go back to bed?”
She shifted back to stand beautifully naked before him. “Not until you say it.”
“Say what?” He was hard as hell and ready for round two.
“That I’m as good as you.” She gave him a flirty smile. One which said she was looking forward to the future rather than staring back at the past. The run had obviously done wonders for her too.
“That was probably a fluke. I don’t think you could keep up with me on a normal day. You know, one where you haven’t seduced me on top of a car boot and made me carry you home first.” The play fighting wasn’t limited to their animal personas. Not when it proved such a turn on. Human or wolf, the scent of Naomi’s arousal would always draw him to her.
“I didn’t hear you complaining at the time. But, if you’re tired, just say and we’ll call it a night.” She shrugged her shoulders, making her boobs jiggle enough to bring his erection to full strength once more.
He stepped forward and brushed her wild hair from her face. “I’ll never be too tired for you, Naomi. I’ll race you back. This time the winner stays on top.”
She grinned, eyes twinkling as bright as the stars. “You’re on.”
This was one race he intended to lose.
***Swoon! I need this now!***
Buy It:Totally Bound
About Jorja:
Jorja Lovett is a British author with both Irish and Scottish roots, which makes for a very dry sense of humour. Writing since she was old enough to wield a pen, it wasn't until she joined her crit group, UCW, that she pursued her passion seriously.
Now, with Joe Manganiello as her permanent muse, if she can leave the pause button on her Magic Mike dvd long enough, she hopes to spend the rest of her days writing steamy romances.
Twitter Blog Website
October 29, 2013
Tell Me About it Tuesday Welcomes Aviva Gittle! FREE BOOK!
Today I'm welcoming children's author, Aviva Gittle! Her books are interesting! So, here we go! Meet Aviva!
Snack Attack, is a free download from Amazon TODAY ONLY! Scroll down for link!
Hi, my name is Aviva Gittle and I like to tell stories. Stories about flies who wear shorts, kittens who talk to snakes and kids who do crazy things. Like turn into a bagel or try to bounce to the moon on a trampoline.
I started Aviva Gittle eBooks to publish my own children's stories. But a funny thing happened on the way to the Kindle library: I discovered the joy of creating stories with others. I'm writing more stories with Mark Megson and a new children's mystery series featuring a dog named Clover with Sara Dean.
Q. How has your journey in publishing been? Anything you would or wouldn’t do again?
I started my company, Aviva Gittle eBooks, to self-publish my children’s books. (Sorry, readers, the hottest topic I’ve written is about a boy who turns into a bagel.) Due to budget constraints, I find myself scrambling to do as much as possible myself. If I could go back in time I would have the website done and a written marketing plan in place before I published any books.
Q. What advice do you have for someone who wants a career in writing?
Obviously, to write. More importantly, to let other writers and editors read your work. Unless mom and dad are in publishing (and brutally honest like my dad), you are not going to get the information you need to become a real writer. There’s no reason for a writer to not have a professional editor. Cutback on Starbucks, quit smoking and go on oDesk.com or Elance.com and hire one.
Q. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of writing?
I love to cook. (Check out alzcookin.blogspot.com for a few of my recipes.) I also paint. Used to be die-hard on weight training, but haven’t been in a very long time. And it shows. My excuse now is the business. Of course that’s a lie, but please don’t tell.
Q. Do you have a favorite story of the ones you’ve written, either published or not? Why?
All the Kitten and Friends stories (7 written to date). Kitten is the kind and accepting soul I’ll never be. I’m proud of the fact that it’s a “natural” series. I didn’t decide to make a series to try to be profitable. I was inspired by a drawing of a kitten and butterfly I saw in an artist’s portfolio. Once I wrote the first story, I fell in love with the main character, Kitten, and just kept writing from the heart.
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff?
Q. If you won the lottery, what is the FIRST thing you’d do? What would you buy and why?
Setup a college fund for both of my grandchildren’s, buy my son and daughter-in-law a house, give my son money to open up a fitness business, hire all the people I need for a real publishing company, renovate my kitchen and start a foundation in memory of my mom. Not that I’ve thought it through. (Side note: my partner, David, dreamed a few years ago that I won a $16M lottery. He never said when.)
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
Anything that strikes my fancy. I “accidently” downloaded a romance novel, “Marriage by Mistake” by Alyssa Kress that (by my standards) was pretty hot. No wonder so many people read that genre!
Q. Tell us one thing about you that might surprise us...it can be a secret...we won't tell.:)
I’m a high school dropout. Ultimately, I earned my equivalency while going to community college. I now hold a B.S. in General Studies.
It's time for my favorite part! Tell us about that new release:
Snack Attack! is the second book in the Aviva Gittle “My First Chapter” eBook series. Perfect for the new reader, but with enough pictures and adventure to hold the attention of the little ones. Each chapter ends with a thought-provoking question to help with your child's reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Here's what readers are saying about Snack Attack!*
“The story and pictures are adorable...”
“It is different than any other children’s story I have ever read.”
“I loved it! Who knew we could feel sympathy for a vending machine?”
*Ratings and comments from beta readers’ written reviews.
Written by Mark Megson (author of "The Boy Who Bounced to the Moon") and illustrated by Jennifer Chappell (illustrator for "Bagel Boy.") Snack Attack! is the story of Murray, an old vending machine who may have broken down for the last time. He learns what friendship really is when his snack family tries everything they can to save Murray from the scrap heap. Can a bunch of potato chips and tasty candies bring their old friend back to life? Find out in this fun tale about the power of friendship and determination.
TODAY ONLY! This book is FREE! DOWNLOAD it TODAY!
Other books by Aviva:
One of the best parts about being a parent? One day, you get to be a grandparent! Baby Louis is safe and sound in his Nana’s loving arms as she dreams of the man her grandson will become. Snuggle with your child or grandchild…and share your own dreams and wonder at watching your little one grow big.
Karissa Hunter’s beautiful watercolor illustrations perfectly capture the special bond between a grandmother and her grandson.
Written by Aviva Gittle and illustrated by Karissa Hunter. Graphic elements of text page layout by Carlos Brito. Edited by Sara Dean and Carol Thompson.
More Aviva:
Amazon Author PageWebsiteFacebook Twitter
Snack Attack, is a free download from Amazon TODAY ONLY! Scroll down for link!
Hi, my name is Aviva Gittle and I like to tell stories. Stories about flies who wear shorts, kittens who talk to snakes and kids who do crazy things. Like turn into a bagel or try to bounce to the moon on a trampoline.
I started Aviva Gittle eBooks to publish my own children's stories. But a funny thing happened on the way to the Kindle library: I discovered the joy of creating stories with others. I'm writing more stories with Mark Megson and a new children's mystery series featuring a dog named Clover with Sara Dean.
Q. How has your journey in publishing been? Anything you would or wouldn’t do again?
I started my company, Aviva Gittle eBooks, to self-publish my children’s books. (Sorry, readers, the hottest topic I’ve written is about a boy who turns into a bagel.) Due to budget constraints, I find myself scrambling to do as much as possible myself. If I could go back in time I would have the website done and a written marketing plan in place before I published any books.
Q. What advice do you have for someone who wants a career in writing?
Obviously, to write. More importantly, to let other writers and editors read your work. Unless mom and dad are in publishing (and brutally honest like my dad), you are not going to get the information you need to become a real writer. There’s no reason for a writer to not have a professional editor. Cutback on Starbucks, quit smoking and go on oDesk.com or Elance.com and hire one.
Q. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of writing?
I love to cook. (Check out alzcookin.blogspot.com for a few of my recipes.) I also paint. Used to be die-hard on weight training, but haven’t been in a very long time. And it shows. My excuse now is the business. Of course that’s a lie, but please don’t tell.
Q. Do you have a favorite story of the ones you’ve written, either published or not? Why?
All the Kitten and Friends stories (7 written to date). Kitten is the kind and accepting soul I’ll never be. I’m proud of the fact that it’s a “natural” series. I didn’t decide to make a series to try to be profitable. I was inspired by a drawing of a kitten and butterfly I saw in an artist’s portfolio. Once I wrote the first story, I fell in love with the main character, Kitten, and just kept writing from the heart.
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff?
Q. If you won the lottery, what is the FIRST thing you’d do? What would you buy and why?
Setup a college fund for both of my grandchildren’s, buy my son and daughter-in-law a house, give my son money to open up a fitness business, hire all the people I need for a real publishing company, renovate my kitchen and start a foundation in memory of my mom. Not that I’ve thought it through. (Side note: my partner, David, dreamed a few years ago that I won a $16M lottery. He never said when.)
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
Anything that strikes my fancy. I “accidently” downloaded a romance novel, “Marriage by Mistake” by Alyssa Kress that (by my standards) was pretty hot. No wonder so many people read that genre!
Q. Tell us one thing about you that might surprise us...it can be a secret...we won't tell.:)
I’m a high school dropout. Ultimately, I earned my equivalency while going to community college. I now hold a B.S. in General Studies.
It's time for my favorite part! Tell us about that new release:
Snack Attack! is the second book in the Aviva Gittle “My First Chapter” eBook series. Perfect for the new reader, but with enough pictures and adventure to hold the attention of the little ones. Each chapter ends with a thought-provoking question to help with your child's reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Here's what readers are saying about Snack Attack!*
“The story and pictures are adorable...”
“It is different than any other children’s story I have ever read.”
“I loved it! Who knew we could feel sympathy for a vending machine?”
*Ratings and comments from beta readers’ written reviews.
Written by Mark Megson (author of "The Boy Who Bounced to the Moon") and illustrated by Jennifer Chappell (illustrator for "Bagel Boy.") Snack Attack! is the story of Murray, an old vending machine who may have broken down for the last time. He learns what friendship really is when his snack family tries everything they can to save Murray from the scrap heap. Can a bunch of potato chips and tasty candies bring their old friend back to life? Find out in this fun tale about the power of friendship and determination.
TODAY ONLY! This book is FREE! DOWNLOAD it TODAY!
Other books by Aviva:
One of the best parts about being a parent? One day, you get to be a grandparent! Baby Louis is safe and sound in his Nana’s loving arms as she dreams of the man her grandson will become. Snuggle with your child or grandchild…and share your own dreams and wonder at watching your little one grow big.Karissa Hunter’s beautiful watercolor illustrations perfectly capture the special bond between a grandmother and her grandson.
Written by Aviva Gittle and illustrated by Karissa Hunter. Graphic elements of text page layout by Carlos Brito. Edited by Sara Dean and Carol Thompson.
More Aviva:
Amazon Author PageWebsiteFacebook Twitter
October 25, 2013
Friday Feature: Ashe Barker & The Darkest Hour!
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Today I'm excited to welcome Ashe Barker, who's celebrating the release of her third book, which ends a trilogy! She's come on-scene with three back to back releases, and isn't that awesome!?
The Darkest Hour: Ashe Barker
Today I’m visiting C.A. Szarek’s blog, and it’s fantastic to be here. Thank you for agreeing to host me today and to let me tell something of the influences that helped shape Nathan and Eva’s story in The Dark Side.
The third and final book in the trilogy went on general release last week. Darkestis every bit as hot and sensual as the first two books, but this is also the intense and emotional climax to the story. Eva, never especially comfortable around others and with no capacity to speak of for handling difficult personal situations, especially when they involve Nathan, faces her greatest challenges in Darkest. And gets it horribly wrong. Darkest is full of highs and lows as Eva’s emotional roller-coaster hits full speed, and her new-found confidence deserts her.
I loved writing The Dark Side, but it’s always fabulous when reviewers like a story too. This excerpt from a five star review on Goodreads was particularly welcome.
Nathan and Eva have finally found a fragile balance between them. Eva, who has trust issues, thinks she has found it with Nathan. Nathan, who has had many subs, feels Eva may be the not-so-perfect sub for him. Together they start to build their lives but when a moment of betrayal and jealousy arises, they find their world is torn apart.
This third and final entry has the least amount of sex and the most heart wrenching moments. Eva has come so far and to have an act of jealousy come between them was so upsetting. This is definitely the book that made me the most emotional. Even though I feel there is less sex in this book than the previous two, the creative aspect had me liking it the best. You are so naughty and wicked Nathan! I won’t spoil the ending but I will say the journey Eva and Nathan take in Darkest easily makes this my favorite of the three books. I gasp, giggled and cried. As for the end, let’s just say I couldn’t ask for a better one.
And so the story ends. I’m so sad to say goodbye. Eva, Nathan and all the other characters have been some my favorites and I feel like I have moved away from some great friends. If you get a chance, read the The Dark Side Trilogy. As for recommendations, read Darkest. You won’t be disappointed.
The Dark Side was always meant to be about contrast and paradox, about opposites attracting. It places a seriously bright but unsophisticated woman in an unfamiliar situation and watches her make decisions with her heart rather than her head. Some of those decisions are good, others more questionable. But it’s always quirky, and the emphasis is on sexy fun. I hope readers agree, and please feel free to let me know what you think of Eva and Nathan’s story.
Blurb:
The Dark Side trilogy, charts the sensual journey of academic musician Eva Byrne as she struggles to overcome painful shyness, sexual inhibition, and personal tragedy. Lonely, unsophisticated, fragile, and desperately seeking love and approval, Eva is easy prey for sensual and experienced Nathan Darke.
He wants her submission, and he knows how to go about getting it. Eva is quickly caught up by the whirlwind of his effortless seduction, though she has her own reasons for agreeing to join him in his world of pain and pleasure, on The Dark Side.
Inexplicably fascinated and at the same time totally frustrated by his new submissive, Nathan is increasingly drawn to her as she opens up in his hands and he realises there is much, much more to his latest playmate than he ever could have imagined.
The Dark Side charts the turbulent relationship between Eva and Nathan as their mutual fascination builds. They both discover what surrender truly means as together they explore the fragile bonds of desire, trust, risk and reward, and the destructive power of betrayal.
Buy the books:
Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.com | Barnes and Noble | All Romance | Totally Bound |Sony |Kobo
More Ashe:
Website
Goodreads
Until 2010 Ashe was a director of a regeneration company in Leeds, in the UK, before becoming convinced there must be more to life. She left to work as an independent consultant, and still does some of that though most of her time is now spent writing, as at last she’s been able to realise her dream of writing erotic romance herself. Ashe has been an avid reader of women’s fiction for many years, and still loves reading historical and contemporary romances – the hotter the better. But now she has a good excuse for her guilty pleasure – research. Ashe usually draws on settings and anecdotes from her own experience to lend colour, detail and realism to her plots and characters, but her stories of love, challenge, resilience and compassion are the conjurings of her own lurid and decidedly smutty imagination.
When not writing – which is not very often - her time is divided between her role as resident taxi driver for her teenage daughter and friends, and caring for a menagerie of dogs, rabbits, tortoises. And a cockatiel. Ashe is a rural parish Councillor, and she’s passionate about evolving rural traditions and values to suit twenty first century lifestyles.
Ashe has just completed her third trilogy in the Black Combe ‘family’ as well as a novella and a short story. All are due for release over the next few months.
October 24, 2013
Freshly Booked...in case you missed it.
In case you missed the fab show last night, you can listen to the recording!
It went great, it was alot of fun!
I hope you'll check it out!
Freshly Booked 10/23/2013 with C.A. Szarek
October 23, 2013
Freshly Book Internet Radio: TONIGHT!
I am so excited!!!
TONIGHT (Wednesday, 10/23/2013) at 8PM CENTRAL times, I will be on the Freshly Booked Internet Radio Show!
It's hosted by authors Tricia Anderson and Heidi Sieverding!
They will interview me about anything and everything, and of course we'll chat about books.
There will even be an excerpt of Collision Force read! *squeeeeeee*
I'm really excited!!!
Copy this to your browser to listen!
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/writersonlinenetwork/2013/10/24/freshly-booked-w
And check them out on Facebook!
There's a chat that starts at 7:15! So come talk to me!
October 22, 2013
Tell Me About it Tuesday welcomes Mia Catherine!
Today I'm welcoming a fellow Totally Bound author, Mia Catherine! I am so excited she's here to share her awesome new book! (GORGEOUS cover!)
Meet Mia:
Born and raised in Wisconsin, Mia Catherine is a proud Cheesehead living with her husband and their three young sons. An avid fan of television dramas, Mia looked away from the small screen when she became disillusioned with the lack of substance on current shows. Enjoying the fantasy involved in a good love story, she turned to reading, and quickly discovered a little voice in her head. That voice led to writing her first chapter, and the second, and the third…
Now, translating that voice in her head to words on the computer is Mia’s escape when times are hard. As words begin to form a story, she’s allowed to escape the trials of everyday life and live in her own little world, if for only a short time.
Knowing others find some pleasure reading what she’s written is just an added bonus.
Q. How has your journey in publishing been? Anything you would or wouldn’t do again?
I would describe my journey as unexpected. I didn't begin writing with the intention of being published. I didn't have any intention at all. My journey began by writing a story about characters I loved from my childhood. Once I became engrossed and realized writing could be as addictive as reading, I was all in.
To develop my writing, I entered literary contests and took online classes to improve the areas pointed out by judges. I'm only steps into a (hopefully) long journey, but looking back at the path thus far, I wouldn't change a thing. My new career developed organically, and the way it was meant to.
Q. What advice do you have f
Write, write, write, write. Writing is like any other activity. It takes practice to develop. Just like playing an instrument, acting in a play, or even learning math, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. There's always something to improve, and the learning will never end, but the only way to progress is to write.
I'd also recommend becoming a book reviewer. Not only can you learn a lot about the publishing world by reading others' work, you can get learn what you like and dislike from other authors and use it to improve your own storytelling.
Q. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of writing?
I spent most free moments writing because I don't get many of them. I work a full time job and have a husband and three young boys at home. Writing is my release, my relaxation, so when I have extra time, it's usually spent writing. I also try to take time to read occasionally.
Q. Do you have a favorite story of the ones you’ve written, either published or not? Why?
My favorite story thus far is my newest release, Unexpected Consequences. It will always have a special place in my heart because it is my first published full-length book, but after reading, editing, rereading, and editing again, I still get sucked into the story. That tells me it's something special, and I'm very proud of it. I'm excited to work on the sequel as well!
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff?
Q. If you won the lottery, what is the FIRST thing you’d do? What would you buy and why?
The first and only thing I'd do immediately is pay off my house. My family moved to our house almost by accident, but it's the ideal place for us for too many reasons to list. To not struggle with a house payment would give us a freedom few enjoy in life. Since my father is a financial advisor and has taught me since birth, I'd say I'd invest the remainder.
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
I love a good love story, regardless, but my all time favorite is reading about military men. I admire our troops more than I can say, and I hope one day to do them justice enough to publish a military tale, but there's nothing that compares to a man in uniform for me. The sacrifice, the bravery, the struggle... It's all good!
Q. Tell us one thing about you that might surprise us...it can be a secret...we won't tell. :)
My writing career came as a huge shock to anyone who knows me personally, including my husband. In my day to day life, I am very reserved, conservative and serious. I rarely curse, I don't drink, and am very involved in my church. For my friends and family to find out I write books that include erotic elements stunned so many.
Okkkkkay! My fave part! Tell us about that book!
Unexpected Consequences is truly a labor of love because it wasn't written for publication. I wrote it for fun, but as I learned and improved my skills, it was the story I always turned to.
Nick and Kelsey meet by chance, but their connection is instant and powerful, despite the whirlwind of activity around them. I love them and I hope others will, too.
Blurb:
Kelsey Braden has lived her life obeying the rules, but now that she’s back in her hometown of Brookfield after having accepted her dream job, she wants more. Stuck in her protective shell and desperately wanting a way out, she finally decides to be spontaneous and acts on impulse.
Nick Jensen has lived a life full of challenges and pain. An intimidating loner, his history of mistakes and bad choices have alienated those once close to him. Now that he finds himself working for the wrong people, he struggles with his current assignment – betraying his former best friend.
When Kelsey finds out the hot stranger she's fallen for is not only working for a well-known gangster, but that his target is her brother, she vows to cut him from her life. Unfortunately, the powerful men Nick is involved with have discovered the connection Kelsey has with both Nick and her brother, and decide to use her as an insurance policy. Nick has to find a way to save his new love, protect her brother, and prevent Kelsey from hating him, all while battling demons of his own.
Excerpt:
"Wanna take me on?" a pretty blonde asked, tilting her head to the side and giving him a sexy smile. "Well, that depends," Nick replied as he drank in the sight of her. She was much too classy to be a hooker, at least compared to the hookers he’d known. If anything, she seemed too innocent to be in a shitty place like this. Still, if she was selling, he might have to reconsider his rule of never paying for sex. A fine young thing like her didn’t cross his path on a regular basis.
He took his time as he looked her over. Her tits were full, yet pert, and he could only imagine how sweet she’d taste, if given the opportunity. Her skin was flawless, her cheeks had just the right hint of pink, and her perfectly plump lips rounded in the most enticing little pout. She was beautiful, and sexy as hell, but what caught his attention most was the incredible depth in her clear blue eyes. They sparkled, even in the dimly lit bar. She could’ve had her pick of anyone in the joint, not that she even belonged there in the first place, but here she was, hitting on him.
"On what?"
"On what you mean by take you on."
"Well, how about we start with a game of pool? You up for it?" She walked past him, closer than necessary, and reached for a pool cue from the rack on the wall. The faint fragrance of lilacs trailed behind her. He couldn’t tell if it was her perfume or shampoo, but as soon as it dissipated, he wanted to close in to figure it out.
He watched the way her skirt hugged her curves. Her ass was every man’s dream. "Baby, I’m up for whatever you’re offering. What are the stakes?"
"How about loser buys dinner?"
"Works for me." He was tempted to throw the game if it meant taking her somewhere private and getting to know her better, but he had to keep his cool. "Wanna break?"
"Winner’s table. She’s all yours."
He did his best to concentrate on his task as he chalked up his cue. His ultimate goal was getting her somewhere alone, or, better yet, in his bed, but his pride was at stake. He couldn’t allow himself to look like a fool by losing to her. With one fast swipe of his cue, the smack of the pool balls rang through the bar.
Nick sank two more balls in quick succession, trying his best to balance skill with brevity. When he circled the table for his next shot, he caught sight of what was happening on the other side of the table, and his hopes for the evening began to fade.
A young dark-haired man was now sitting beside his beautiful opponent, showing obvious interest. He was exactly the all-American type he’d expect a beauty like her to go for. Well, so much for that.
Trying to keep his attention on the game, he rounded the corner for his next shot. The distraction caused him to miss, but he could now hear what the two were saying.
"Can I buy you a drink?" the intruder asked her.
"No thanks, I’m fine," she curtly responded.
"Oh, come on. Give a guy a chance. I know how to please a woman." He gave her a smile he’d no doubt perfected on many unsuspecting girls.
"Then please leave me alone." Although talking to the young man, her attention never veered from Nick, and his hopes for the evening renewed.
The intruder continued, clearly not giving up. "I think you want me."
She turned and looked him dead in the eye. "Oh, you’re so right. I want you to leave!"
Nick admired her feistiness and waited for the young punk to walk away with his tail between his legs. When it was clear that wasn’t going to happen, he intervened.
"Is there a problem here?" Nick asked the intruder.
"No, no problem, buddy. I was just talking to the lady."
Nick’s gaze left the punk and moved to her. "It’s your shot."
"Oh, great, it’s time to earn my dinner!" She smiled at Nick and walked towards the table.
Nick turned back to the punk. "Looks like the lady isn’t interested in anything you have to say." He then leaned closer and, with his practiced grizzly voice and gritted teeth, snarled, "Buddy."
He chuckled when he saw the intruder lean back and avert his gaze. It was a sign of fear Nick had come to enjoy in unsuspecting assholes such as him. Without another word, the punk slunk away. "Smart boy," he muttered to himself.
Nick returned his attention to the pool table, where he found the beauty lining up her shot. The vision made blood rush towards his growing erection and he had to adjust his stance to allow room in his jeans. Damn, but she’s sexy.
Buy It! Barnes & Noble|Amazon|Amazon UKTotally Bound|ARe
Meet Mia:
Born and raised in Wisconsin, Mia Catherine is a proud Cheesehead living with her husband and their three young sons. An avid fan of television dramas, Mia looked away from the small screen when she became disillusioned with the lack of substance on current shows. Enjoying the fantasy involved in a good love story, she turned to reading, and quickly discovered a little voice in her head. That voice led to writing her first chapter, and the second, and the third…
Now, translating that voice in her head to words on the computer is Mia’s escape when times are hard. As words begin to form a story, she’s allowed to escape the trials of everyday life and live in her own little world, if for only a short time.
Knowing others find some pleasure reading what she’s written is just an added bonus.
Q. How has your journey in publishing been? Anything you would or wouldn’t do again?
I would describe my journey as unexpected. I didn't begin writing with the intention of being published. I didn't have any intention at all. My journey began by writing a story about characters I loved from my childhood. Once I became engrossed and realized writing could be as addictive as reading, I was all in.
To develop my writing, I entered literary contests and took online classes to improve the areas pointed out by judges. I'm only steps into a (hopefully) long journey, but looking back at the path thus far, I wouldn't change a thing. My new career developed organically, and the way it was meant to.
Q. What advice do you have f
Write, write, write, write. Writing is like any other activity. It takes practice to develop. Just like playing an instrument, acting in a play, or even learning math, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. There's always something to improve, and the learning will never end, but the only way to progress is to write.
I'd also recommend becoming a book reviewer. Not only can you learn a lot about the publishing world by reading others' work, you can get learn what you like and dislike from other authors and use it to improve your own storytelling.
Q. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of writing?
I spent most free moments writing because I don't get many of them. I work a full time job and have a husband and three young boys at home. Writing is my release, my relaxation, so when I have extra time, it's usually spent writing. I also try to take time to read occasionally.
Q. Do you have a favorite story of the ones you’ve written, either published or not? Why?
My favorite story thus far is my newest release, Unexpected Consequences. It will always have a special place in my heart because it is my first published full-length book, but after reading, editing, rereading, and editing again, I still get sucked into the story. That tells me it's something special, and I'm very proud of it. I'm excited to work on the sequel as well!
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff?
Q. If you won the lottery, what is the FIRST thing you’d do? What would you buy and why?
The first and only thing I'd do immediately is pay off my house. My family moved to our house almost by accident, but it's the ideal place for us for too many reasons to list. To not struggle with a house payment would give us a freedom few enjoy in life. Since my father is a financial advisor and has taught me since birth, I'd say I'd invest the remainder.
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
I love a good love story, regardless, but my all time favorite is reading about military men. I admire our troops more than I can say, and I hope one day to do them justice enough to publish a military tale, but there's nothing that compares to a man in uniform for me. The sacrifice, the bravery, the struggle... It's all good!
Q. Tell us one thing about you that might surprise us...it can be a secret...we won't tell. :)
My writing career came as a huge shock to anyone who knows me personally, including my husband. In my day to day life, I am very reserved, conservative and serious. I rarely curse, I don't drink, and am very involved in my church. For my friends and family to find out I write books that include erotic elements stunned so many.
Okkkkkay! My fave part! Tell us about that book!
Unexpected Consequences is truly a labor of love because it wasn't written for publication. I wrote it for fun, but as I learned and improved my skills, it was the story I always turned to.
Nick and Kelsey meet by chance, but their connection is instant and powerful, despite the whirlwind of activity around them. I love them and I hope others will, too.
Blurb:
Kelsey Braden has lived her life obeying the rules, but now that she’s back in her hometown of Brookfield after having accepted her dream job, she wants more. Stuck in her protective shell and desperately wanting a way out, she finally decides to be spontaneous and acts on impulse.
Nick Jensen has lived a life full of challenges and pain. An intimidating loner, his history of mistakes and bad choices have alienated those once close to him. Now that he finds himself working for the wrong people, he struggles with his current assignment – betraying his former best friend.
When Kelsey finds out the hot stranger she's fallen for is not only working for a well-known gangster, but that his target is her brother, she vows to cut him from her life. Unfortunately, the powerful men Nick is involved with have discovered the connection Kelsey has with both Nick and her brother, and decide to use her as an insurance policy. Nick has to find a way to save his new love, protect her brother, and prevent Kelsey from hating him, all while battling demons of his own.
Excerpt:
"Wanna take me on?" a pretty blonde asked, tilting her head to the side and giving him a sexy smile. "Well, that depends," Nick replied as he drank in the sight of her. She was much too classy to be a hooker, at least compared to the hookers he’d known. If anything, she seemed too innocent to be in a shitty place like this. Still, if she was selling, he might have to reconsider his rule of never paying for sex. A fine young thing like her didn’t cross his path on a regular basis.
He took his time as he looked her over. Her tits were full, yet pert, and he could only imagine how sweet she’d taste, if given the opportunity. Her skin was flawless, her cheeks had just the right hint of pink, and her perfectly plump lips rounded in the most enticing little pout. She was beautiful, and sexy as hell, but what caught his attention most was the incredible depth in her clear blue eyes. They sparkled, even in the dimly lit bar. She could’ve had her pick of anyone in the joint, not that she even belonged there in the first place, but here she was, hitting on him.
"On what?"
"On what you mean by take you on."
"Well, how about we start with a game of pool? You up for it?" She walked past him, closer than necessary, and reached for a pool cue from the rack on the wall. The faint fragrance of lilacs trailed behind her. He couldn’t tell if it was her perfume or shampoo, but as soon as it dissipated, he wanted to close in to figure it out.
He watched the way her skirt hugged her curves. Her ass was every man’s dream. "Baby, I’m up for whatever you’re offering. What are the stakes?"
"How about loser buys dinner?"
"Works for me." He was tempted to throw the game if it meant taking her somewhere private and getting to know her better, but he had to keep his cool. "Wanna break?"
"Winner’s table. She’s all yours."
He did his best to concentrate on his task as he chalked up his cue. His ultimate goal was getting her somewhere alone, or, better yet, in his bed, but his pride was at stake. He couldn’t allow himself to look like a fool by losing to her. With one fast swipe of his cue, the smack of the pool balls rang through the bar.
Nick sank two more balls in quick succession, trying his best to balance skill with brevity. When he circled the table for his next shot, he caught sight of what was happening on the other side of the table, and his hopes for the evening began to fade.
A young dark-haired man was now sitting beside his beautiful opponent, showing obvious interest. He was exactly the all-American type he’d expect a beauty like her to go for. Well, so much for that.
Trying to keep his attention on the game, he rounded the corner for his next shot. The distraction caused him to miss, but he could now hear what the two were saying.
"Can I buy you a drink?" the intruder asked her.
"No thanks, I’m fine," she curtly responded.
"Oh, come on. Give a guy a chance. I know how to please a woman." He gave her a smile he’d no doubt perfected on many unsuspecting girls.
"Then please leave me alone." Although talking to the young man, her attention never veered from Nick, and his hopes for the evening renewed.
The intruder continued, clearly not giving up. "I think you want me."
She turned and looked him dead in the eye. "Oh, you’re so right. I want you to leave!"
Nick admired her feistiness and waited for the young punk to walk away with his tail between his legs. When it was clear that wasn’t going to happen, he intervened.
"Is there a problem here?" Nick asked the intruder.
"No, no problem, buddy. I was just talking to the lady."
Nick’s gaze left the punk and moved to her. "It’s your shot."
"Oh, great, it’s time to earn my dinner!" She smiled at Nick and walked towards the table.
Nick turned back to the punk. "Looks like the lady isn’t interested in anything you have to say." He then leaned closer and, with his practiced grizzly voice and gritted teeth, snarled, "Buddy."
He chuckled when he saw the intruder lean back and avert his gaze. It was a sign of fear Nick had come to enjoy in unsuspecting assholes such as him. Without another word, the punk slunk away. "Smart boy," he muttered to himself.
Nick returned his attention to the pool table, where he found the beauty lining up her shot. The vision made blood rush towards his growing erection and he had to adjust his stance to allow room in his jeans. Damn, but she’s sexy.
Buy It! Barnes & Noble|Amazon|Amazon UKTotally Bound|ARe
October 18, 2013
Friday Feature: Fred Funk and Moonshiner's Revenge!
Today on Friday Feature, I'm welcoming Fred Funk, who's talking about his AWARD winning series!
This book will be out soon, but it looks like a fantastic read!
Here's a word from Fred!
My writing career started rather late in life, but I believe that I have found my passion. Ministry and Moonshine was published in June of 2012. I entered it in the North Texas Book Festival and had no notion that it would even be a finalist and I was blown away when it won first place. Life and Death on Cannon Creek came out in February of 2013. Moonshiner’s Revenge, a sequel to Ministry and Moonshine is now available. I wrote the sequel by popular demand. I am now working on my fourth book, The Throwaway Son.
Moonshiner’s Revenge
Young preacher Matt Reynolds and his wife, Beth, spent two years in the tiny East Texas town of Pruett, spreading the gospel and making remarkable friendships and facing many unforeseen troubles. As they prepare to move to a new town and a new beginning, an unexpected development changes everything. Instead of moving on, they find themselves thrown once again into the peculiar life of the town and its colorful characters. The preacher and his wife have already faced malicious gossips, murderers, bootleggers, adulterers, and moonshiners, and have come through mostly unscathed. What could be worse than any of those?
Matt has never doubted that “The Man Upstairs” is in control, but he wonders what message He is sending when he must form an unlikely alliance with some of the meanest, most disreputable folks in the area to fight forces much more sinister than moonshiners. He and Beth find themselves staring down a dark road filled with mystery and danger that could threaten not only their own safety but the very survival of the town.
More Fred:
Born and raised in North Texas near Denton. Graduated Denton High School 1960. Attended what is now The University of North Texas and transfered to East Texas State College to pursue a pre-theology degree. Served as pastor of numerous churches in North and East Texas. Later switched career to accounting and finance. Worked thirty-five years for a national retail furniture chain. Now retired and started a new career writing novels.
Married to Dana for 52 years. Have two daughters and one son and seven grandchildren. Dana and I live in North Texas with two crazy cats that have agree to let us share the house.
Website
This book will be out soon, but it looks like a fantastic read!
Here's a word from Fred!
My writing career started rather late in life, but I believe that I have found my passion. Ministry and Moonshine was published in June of 2012. I entered it in the North Texas Book Festival and had no notion that it would even be a finalist and I was blown away when it won first place. Life and Death on Cannon Creek came out in February of 2013. Moonshiner’s Revenge, a sequel to Ministry and Moonshine is now available. I wrote the sequel by popular demand. I am now working on my fourth book, The Throwaway Son.
Moonshiner’s Revenge
Young preacher Matt Reynolds and his wife, Beth, spent two years in the tiny East Texas town of Pruett, spreading the gospel and making remarkable friendships and facing many unforeseen troubles. As they prepare to move to a new town and a new beginning, an unexpected development changes everything. Instead of moving on, they find themselves thrown once again into the peculiar life of the town and its colorful characters. The preacher and his wife have already faced malicious gossips, murderers, bootleggers, adulterers, and moonshiners, and have come through mostly unscathed. What could be worse than any of those?
Matt has never doubted that “The Man Upstairs” is in control, but he wonders what message He is sending when he must form an unlikely alliance with some of the meanest, most disreputable folks in the area to fight forces much more sinister than moonshiners. He and Beth find themselves staring down a dark road filled with mystery and danger that could threaten not only their own safety but the very survival of the town.
More Fred:
Born and raised in North Texas near Denton. Graduated Denton High School 1960. Attended what is now The University of North Texas and transfered to East Texas State College to pursue a pre-theology degree. Served as pastor of numerous churches in North and East Texas. Later switched career to accounting and finance. Worked thirty-five years for a national retail furniture chain. Now retired and started a new career writing novels.
Married to Dana for 52 years. Have two daughters and one son and seven grandchildren. Dana and I live in North Texas with two crazy cats that have agree to let us share the house.
Website
October 15, 2013
Tell Me About it Tuesday Special! It's all about me!
So, this past Saturday (10/12/13), I had a birthday. My 35th Birthday! Wow. I feel old.
But it was a great day, and I got an awesome surprise when my author copies of Collision Force (Crossing Forces Book One) arrived in the mail! It was like getting 5 presents!
Even tho this is the 2nd time for me, there's just this indescribable feeling to see your name on a book, and hold it in your hand.
I literally jumped up and down!
I will be holding a Virtual Signing through my website soon, if you would like to have a signed copy of the book!
I will alert everyone via mini-newsletter/announcement, so if you want to get that news, please see the top right side of blog and click on "Mailing List" to sign up.
Ignore the cheezy grin, I couldn't help it!
Red Velvet, MY FAVE!
I had a great day with my family, and the cake was YUMMY.
Getting my paperbacks of Collision Force was extra icing on the cake! *wink*
Buy It:Paperback (B&N)|Ebook (B&N)|Amazon (Both Formats)|TB (publisher)
October 11, 2013
Friday Feature: Sascha Illyvich!
The badboy of romance, Sascha Illyvich has an upcoming release in addition to the dozens of fantastic reads he's authored! He's taken over my blog! So here's Sascha, without further ado!
When Real Life sneaks in
By Sascha Illyvich
Recently I finished, submitted and as usual, had accepted a story to Decadent Publishing called Paula's Craving. When I first wrote the story in the current version, it wasn't as long, but probably (possibly) longer than the original piece I'd penned over 20 years ago. And it was the same two characters, only in an older form.
Both Ryan and Paula have their difficulties with life, but in Paula's version, she faces them with Ryan, head on, while he takes the loner route, unaware that someone could even love him and not his money.
Damnedest thing though. While the original character Cliff morphed into Ryan for personal reasons, Paula didn't really change so much as develop, while two very real world and powerful women found ways to sneak into the story and guide her. I suppose you could say these two women were my muse for the piece.
I discovered this when going through the last round of edits I realized the women I barely knew but based the heroine on, had become a combination of the two most important people in my world now. I realized they needed to pull Ryan out of his shell, and only they could in the form using Paula's seductive yet straight to the point game of the heart.
It's funny, I continued to update the dedication. It started off with a thank you to my readers, old and new, my editors. Then I added a few more names. Then I did another round of edits. Then I added a few more names and words to thank those who picked me up, and ultimately picked Ryan off the ground when he wanted to lay down and die.
I suppose no reader truly wants the honesty authors provide, I mean you buy our books for the creative fantasies (which can look like lies if you take things too far) and for the illusion, which in itself is technically a lie depending on your belief, but I lie enough in books. Somewhere I need to connect honestly with readers and it's through these, and my books that I do that.
Paula had to expose a truth to Ryan by forcing him to open a wound and let her rummage around in it, clean it. The question was, could he?
Paula's Craving is due out soon from the fabulous folks at Decadent Publishing.
(OMG! I love this COVER!)
After an emotionally torrential meeting, can Paula show Ryan what it
means to love? Or will the high school crush be all they have? Paula's
Craving, coming soon from Decadent Publishing More from the Bad Boy of
Romance!
More Sascha:
Facebook Twitter Website Sascha @ Decadent Publishing
Amazon
Goodreads
Youtube Channel
When Real Life sneaks in
By Sascha Illyvich
Recently I finished, submitted and as usual, had accepted a story to Decadent Publishing called Paula's Craving. When I first wrote the story in the current version, it wasn't as long, but probably (possibly) longer than the original piece I'd penned over 20 years ago. And it was the same two characters, only in an older form.
Both Ryan and Paula have their difficulties with life, but in Paula's version, she faces them with Ryan, head on, while he takes the loner route, unaware that someone could even love him and not his money.
Damnedest thing though. While the original character Cliff morphed into Ryan for personal reasons, Paula didn't really change so much as develop, while two very real world and powerful women found ways to sneak into the story and guide her. I suppose you could say these two women were my muse for the piece.
I discovered this when going through the last round of edits I realized the women I barely knew but based the heroine on, had become a combination of the two most important people in my world now. I realized they needed to pull Ryan out of his shell, and only they could in the form using Paula's seductive yet straight to the point game of the heart.
It's funny, I continued to update the dedication. It started off with a thank you to my readers, old and new, my editors. Then I added a few more names. Then I did another round of edits. Then I added a few more names and words to thank those who picked me up, and ultimately picked Ryan off the ground when he wanted to lay down and die.
I suppose no reader truly wants the honesty authors provide, I mean you buy our books for the creative fantasies (which can look like lies if you take things too far) and for the illusion, which in itself is technically a lie depending on your belief, but I lie enough in books. Somewhere I need to connect honestly with readers and it's through these, and my books that I do that.
Paula had to expose a truth to Ryan by forcing him to open a wound and let her rummage around in it, clean it. The question was, could he?
Paula's Craving is due out soon from the fabulous folks at Decadent Publishing.
(OMG! I love this COVER!)
After an emotionally torrential meeting, can Paula show Ryan what it
means to love? Or will the high school crush be all they have? Paula's
Craving, coming soon from Decadent Publishing More from the Bad Boy of
Romance!
More Sascha:Facebook Twitter Website Sascha @ Decadent Publishing
Amazon
Goodreads
Youtube Channel
October 8, 2013
Tell Me About it Tuesday Welcomes Steven Southard!
This week another Gypsy is visiting! YAY! Go Gypsy Shadow Authors!
Without further ado, meet Steven!
The adventure books of Jules Verne and Robert Heinlein inspired a young Steven R. Southard to join the submarine service and become a naval engineer. Now, through his own stories in the What Man Hath Wrought series, Steve conveys the wonders of science and technology in alternative history tales filled with adventure. He has written in the historical, fantasy, science fiction, alternate history, horror, and steampunk genres. Visit his page at the Gypsy Shadow Publishing website (http://www.gypsyshadow.com/StevenSout...) and his own site at www.stevenrsouthard.com to better understand his intriguing characters and their amazing machines.
Q. Do you do any special research for your stories?
A. Besides reading cereal boxes and people-watching at bus stations after midnight, you mean? For research, I’d like to say I fly my private jet to each setting for my upcoming stories and spend a month immersing myself in the local ambiance. I’d like to say that, but instead I conduct meticulous research using the most trusted source available—the Internet. Much cheaper than jet fuel.
Q. What’s your favorite genre to read? Do you write it?
A. I read widely, but my favorite genre is so-called “hard” science fiction. I don’t write about starships and intergalactic wars, though, probably because it’s too hard. My slave-driving muse usually commands me to write alternative history, including steampunk. My stories typically involve people trying to interact with unfamiliar technology, inspired by me trying to interact with my laptop.
Q. What are you working on right now? Can you tell us about it?
A. I’ll reveal this much, but don’t tell anyone. It involves Plato’s Ring of Gyges from The Republic (a ring that renders its wearer invisible) and a Scotland Yard detective investigating Jack the Ripper.
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff. You know, just between the two of us.
Q. The opportunity to go on a surprise vacation arises. You have 90 minutes to pack and get to the airport. Where will you go and what will you pack?
A. I’d retrace Phileas Fogg’s fictional trip around the world in 80 days: London to Egypt to Mumbai to Kolkata to Hong Kong to Yokohama to San Francisco to New York to London. Naturally I’d pack what Fogg brought, a carpet bag with two shirts and three pairs of socks, a raincoat, a travelling cloak (cool!), and a spare pair of shoes. Probably some credit cards rather than Fogg’s big wad of cash.
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
A. For the most part, I listen to audiobooks while on my daily work commute. When I read print books or ebooks I feel guilty that I’m not writing, so audiobooks while driving work best for me. I check them out at the library, since I’m such a cheapskate. Although I prefer science fiction, I read all fiction genres, as well as nonfiction. I try to read one or two of the classics every year.
Q. If they make a movie about your life, who do you want to play your part?
A. Is Robert Downey Jr. available? He’d need to trim his van dyke goatee better, the one he wore while playing Tony Stark in Ironman.
Now is my fave part! Tell us all about that awesome book!
In my story “A Tale More True,” Baron Münchhausen has been known to stretch the truth a bit, then tie it in knots, toss it on the floor, and stomp on it. But to prove him wrong, is it really necessary for Count Federmann to construct a gigantic clockwork spring and launch himself to the Moon? In 1769? If the Count should do so, and if he should drag his trustworthy servant along, perhaps he’ll learn enough to tell…a tale more true.
Excerpt:
No one on Earth could detest Baron Münchhausen more than he did. Count Eusebius Horst Siegwart von Federmann felt certain of that.
As he sat watching Baron Hieronymus Carl Friedrich von Münchhausen, the Count’s loathing of the infernal liar magnified in intensity. The Baron hosted this evening’s dinner party, and all the nobles in the town of Bodenwerder and the entire Electorate attended. Not wanting to miss the evening’s highlight, they’d gathered in the enormous parlor on upholstered walnut Rococo chairs with maple veneer.
Münchhausen sat on his chaise longue; hands sweeping with dramatic effect; his beaked nose pointing at each person; his mouth drawn up in a smile that lifted his waxed mustache; his high-pitched nasal voice squeaking like a child’s viola.
Yet he captivated the crowd, just as the Count had seen Münchhausen do at dozens of other elegant parties. His falsehoods couldn’t be more obvious, but the party-goers clapped and laughed in appreciation. He claimed to have felled over seventy birds with a single rifle shot, to have killed a wolf by turning it inside out, and to have survived in the stomach of a large fish for many hours. How could anyone believe such nonsense?
Adding to the Count’s vexation, all the beautiful, young, single women sat transfixed, hanging on the Baron’s every farcical word. Were these maidens so easily swayed? How could the buffoonish Münchhausen—that misshapen man with the door-hinge voice, a man already married—hold every fräulein’s admiring attention? Had this been a world where true justice prevailed, the maidens would be listening to the eligible bachelors, the handsome, smooth-toned ones, such as the Count himself.
Not only younger than the Baron, he ranked higher in the nobility hierarchy, was arguably better looking, and possessed a deeper voice. True, he’d not served in any military capacity, but the Baron’s actual combat experience had little to do with his popularity. People flocked to his parties, gathered around him, and sat in attentive silence for the sole purpose of hearing the man’s outlandish lies. Münchhausen might well be the most accomplished and successful liar in Europe, or even in all of history, the Count thought.
Seething with hatred, Count Federmann kept his facial expression neutral, not joining in the laughter or applause. Neither did he call on Münchhausen to provide proof for his assertions or otherwise humiliate the lying Baron. Still, he knew, something must be done.
Buy it:Gypsy Shadow|Amazon|Barnes & Noble
Without further ado, meet Steven!
The adventure books of Jules Verne and Robert Heinlein inspired a young Steven R. Southard to join the submarine service and become a naval engineer. Now, through his own stories in the What Man Hath Wrought series, Steve conveys the wonders of science and technology in alternative history tales filled with adventure. He has written in the historical, fantasy, science fiction, alternate history, horror, and steampunk genres. Visit his page at the Gypsy Shadow Publishing website (http://www.gypsyshadow.com/StevenSout...) and his own site at www.stevenrsouthard.com to better understand his intriguing characters and their amazing machines.
Q. Do you do any special research for your stories?
A. Besides reading cereal boxes and people-watching at bus stations after midnight, you mean? For research, I’d like to say I fly my private jet to each setting for my upcoming stories and spend a month immersing myself in the local ambiance. I’d like to say that, but instead I conduct meticulous research using the most trusted source available—the Internet. Much cheaper than jet fuel.
Q. What’s your favorite genre to read? Do you write it?
A. I read widely, but my favorite genre is so-called “hard” science fiction. I don’t write about starships and intergalactic wars, though, probably because it’s too hard. My slave-driving muse usually commands me to write alternative history, including steampunk. My stories typically involve people trying to interact with unfamiliar technology, inspired by me trying to interact with my laptop.
Q. What are you working on right now? Can you tell us about it?
A. I’ll reveal this much, but don’t tell anyone. It involves Plato’s Ring of Gyges from The Republic (a ring that renders its wearer invisible) and a Scotland Yard detective investigating Jack the Ripper.
Okay...enough with the business questions! How about some fun stuff. You know, just between the two of us.
Q. The opportunity to go on a surprise vacation arises. You have 90 minutes to pack and get to the airport. Where will you go and what will you pack?
A. I’d retrace Phileas Fogg’s fictional trip around the world in 80 days: London to Egypt to Mumbai to Kolkata to Hong Kong to Yokohama to San Francisco to New York to London. Naturally I’d pack what Fogg brought, a carpet bag with two shirts and three pairs of socks, a raincoat, a travelling cloak (cool!), and a spare pair of shoes. Probably some credit cards rather than Fogg’s big wad of cash.
Q. When YOU read, what do you like to pick up?
A. For the most part, I listen to audiobooks while on my daily work commute. When I read print books or ebooks I feel guilty that I’m not writing, so audiobooks while driving work best for me. I check them out at the library, since I’m such a cheapskate. Although I prefer science fiction, I read all fiction genres, as well as nonfiction. I try to read one or two of the classics every year.
Q. If they make a movie about your life, who do you want to play your part?
A. Is Robert Downey Jr. available? He’d need to trim his van dyke goatee better, the one he wore while playing Tony Stark in Ironman.
Now is my fave part! Tell us all about that awesome book!
In my story “A Tale More True,” Baron Münchhausen has been known to stretch the truth a bit, then tie it in knots, toss it on the floor, and stomp on it. But to prove him wrong, is it really necessary for Count Federmann to construct a gigantic clockwork spring and launch himself to the Moon? In 1769? If the Count should do so, and if he should drag his trustworthy servant along, perhaps he’ll learn enough to tell…a tale more true.
Excerpt:
No one on Earth could detest Baron Münchhausen more than he did. Count Eusebius Horst Siegwart von Federmann felt certain of that.
As he sat watching Baron Hieronymus Carl Friedrich von Münchhausen, the Count’s loathing of the infernal liar magnified in intensity. The Baron hosted this evening’s dinner party, and all the nobles in the town of Bodenwerder and the entire Electorate attended. Not wanting to miss the evening’s highlight, they’d gathered in the enormous parlor on upholstered walnut Rococo chairs with maple veneer.
Münchhausen sat on his chaise longue; hands sweeping with dramatic effect; his beaked nose pointing at each person; his mouth drawn up in a smile that lifted his waxed mustache; his high-pitched nasal voice squeaking like a child’s viola.
Yet he captivated the crowd, just as the Count had seen Münchhausen do at dozens of other elegant parties. His falsehoods couldn’t be more obvious, but the party-goers clapped and laughed in appreciation. He claimed to have felled over seventy birds with a single rifle shot, to have killed a wolf by turning it inside out, and to have survived in the stomach of a large fish for many hours. How could anyone believe such nonsense?
Adding to the Count’s vexation, all the beautiful, young, single women sat transfixed, hanging on the Baron’s every farcical word. Were these maidens so easily swayed? How could the buffoonish Münchhausen—that misshapen man with the door-hinge voice, a man already married—hold every fräulein’s admiring attention? Had this been a world where true justice prevailed, the maidens would be listening to the eligible bachelors, the handsome, smooth-toned ones, such as the Count himself.
Not only younger than the Baron, he ranked higher in the nobility hierarchy, was arguably better looking, and possessed a deeper voice. True, he’d not served in any military capacity, but the Baron’s actual combat experience had little to do with his popularity. People flocked to his parties, gathered around him, and sat in attentive silence for the sole purpose of hearing the man’s outlandish lies. Münchhausen might well be the most accomplished and successful liar in Europe, or even in all of history, the Count thought.
Seething with hatred, Count Federmann kept his facial expression neutral, not joining in the laughter or applause. Neither did he call on Münchhausen to provide proof for his assertions or otherwise humiliate the lying Baron. Still, he knew, something must be done.
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