S.A. Jones's Blog, page 7
June 2, 2013
RRP Summer Heat Cover Reveals
I always love to share what's going on with Renaissance Romance Publishing, and up now are the cover reveals for the Beach Reads summer anthology--Summer Heat!
"In My Mother’s Footsteps" by Forbes Arnone
Anela Alborn’s life is a lie. After growing up without the love of a father, her mother reveals his identity. Tragedy strikes and she sets off on an adventure that leads to more than she could ever imagine. Bumping into Christian Sivers distracts her from the real man of her dreams, her father. Will he live up to her dreams? And does she follow in her mother’s footsteps?
About the Author
Forbes Arnone
Facebook
Goodreads Forbes Arnone
Goodreads Jennifer Garcia
Twitter
Blog
About.me
AuthorsdbJennifer Garcia’s (aka Forbes Arnone) love of travel began when she traveled to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.
Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family. Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature. She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be published August 2013.
"Just Like in the Movies" by M.B. Feeney
Ava Jones has settled for a life that she’s not sure she wants anymore, but won’t admit it. Her best friend, Erica Davidson talks her into taking a break on the Isle of Wight. Her days on the island are spent thinking things through, and arguing with Morgan whom she hates on principal.
Is it so wrong for her to want a life that follows the script of a honest to God romance film?
About the Author
M.B. Feeney
Blog
Twitter
Goodreads
Facebook
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
AuthorsdbM. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, 2 kids and a dog. She's also a student teacher, a doodler and a chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love since she could spell, and publishing is the culmination of her hard work and ambition.
"Haunted Raine" by R.E. Hargrave
Distracted by the everyday routine of raising children, being a wife, and keeping a home, Lorraine Morrissey let life pass her by. Her wakeup call comes when she realizes that with their children gone, her husband Richard is rarely home, and she’s filling her solitary days with trivial tasks. A crazy idea to save her marriage leads to a summer beach vacation unlike any she’s ever taken; one that involves unknowingly buying a haunted house.
About the Author
R.E. Hargrave
Blog
Facebook
Goodreads
Twitter
Amazon
About.me
Libboo
AuthorsdbR.E. Hargrave is a fledgling author who has always been a lover of books and now looks forward to the chance to give something back to the literary community. She lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX with her husband and three children.
"In My Mother’s Footsteps" by Forbes ArnoneAnela Alborn’s life is a lie. After growing up without the love of a father, her mother reveals his identity. Tragedy strikes and she sets off on an adventure that leads to more than she could ever imagine. Bumping into Christian Sivers distracts her from the real man of her dreams, her father. Will he live up to her dreams? And does she follow in her mother’s footsteps?
About the Author
Forbes ArnoneGoodreads Forbes Arnone
Goodreads Jennifer Garcia
Blog
About.me
AuthorsdbJennifer Garcia’s (aka Forbes Arnone) love of travel began when she traveled to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.
Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family. Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature. She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be published August 2013.
"Just Like in the Movies" by M.B. FeeneyAva Jones has settled for a life that she’s not sure she wants anymore, but won’t admit it. Her best friend, Erica Davidson talks her into taking a break on the Isle of Wight. Her days on the island are spent thinking things through, and arguing with Morgan whom she hates on principal.
Is it so wrong for her to want a life that follows the script of a honest to God romance film?
About the Author
M.B. FeeneyBlog
Goodreads
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
AuthorsdbM. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, 2 kids and a dog. She's also a student teacher, a doodler and a chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love since she could spell, and publishing is the culmination of her hard work and ambition.
"Haunted Raine" by R.E. HargraveDistracted by the everyday routine of raising children, being a wife, and keeping a home, Lorraine Morrissey let life pass her by. Her wakeup call comes when she realizes that with their children gone, her husband Richard is rarely home, and she’s filling her solitary days with trivial tasks. A crazy idea to save her marriage leads to a summer beach vacation unlike any she’s ever taken; one that involves unknowingly buying a haunted house.
About the Author
R.E. HargraveBlog
Goodreads
Amazon
About.me
Libboo
AuthorsdbR.E. Hargrave is a fledgling author who has always been a lover of books and now looks forward to the chance to give something back to the literary community. She lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX with her husband and three children.
May 29, 2013
It's a Giveaway! In Celebration of YOU, the Readers!!
In celebration of readers, writers, followers of me on Facebook and Twitter; I'm hosting a giveaway!
It may not seem like much, but "Love Something Fierce" was my first ever published piece, and it may not go down in history, but I'm so insanely proud of it.
Without people like you, it would have never been possible!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
It may not seem like much, but "Love Something Fierce" was my first ever published piece, and it may not go down in history, but I'm so insanely proud of it.
Without people like you, it would have never been possible!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 25, 2013
Interview with N.J. Cole
1. Tell us something about yourself that is *not* in your bio?
I embarrass easily. I can write about all of this stuff, but I can’t say the “P” word out loud.
2. Did you always plan on writing?
No, I have an entire other career, Master’s degree and all. This was just to get the thoughts out of my head to relax. I had no idea this many people would like my writing. I am so excited about it now though, and it’s my fantasy to be able to just write all day.
3. What type of food is your favorite? Does it ever make an appearance in your writing?
I love ice cream, and if there is a sequel to Midnight Caller I plan to write an entire scene around it in the sequel.
4. What book has most influenced you as a whole person, not as a writer?
This is going to sound odd, but The Grapes of Wrath. The final scene there is a woman nursing a stranger. She smiled and wondered if she was turned on. That led to my fascination with lactation and then other forms of nontraditional sex. It led me to search for fanfiction and eventually led me to write.
5. Do you prefer noise when you write, such as music or activity, or do you prefer to write in silence?
I can’t write with any noise. I sometimes hide if my kids are too loud. If there is music on, I feel like throwing my laptop out the window. I just can’t think.
6. How does your family feel about your writing?
They love it and my kids are all writing their own books.
7. Did you do any traveling for your writing?
Not yet, but I see a trip to Australia for “research” soon. That is where Bec lives. :)
8. What is your favorite piece that you have ever written?
I love this version of Midnight Caller. It is by far my most polished piece. I do love Involuntary Rapture though. I think my drabble: The Second Elizabeth is neat, too. It has 84 chapters with exactly 100 words per chapter ;)
9. Do you stick to one genre when you write, or several? What genre(s)?
I try to write everything, but there is always a romance theme and a happily ever after. Midnight Caller is so many categories: Romance, Erotica, BDSM, Sci/fi.
10. Do you have a favorite character in your most recent release? Who is it?
I love Shane. He is like the guy every girl wants. Just so funny, and even though his wife isn’t all bubbly all the time, he loves her and defends her.
11. Are you working on anything now?
I’m considering a sequel for Midnight Caller and I’m working on a collaboration for a book that will consist of three short stories.
12. Any advice for aspiring writers and fellow authors before you go?
I always advise to write in Google docs. It’s the safest place to write and you can have people read and edit while you work. If you are going off track or get stuck, they will have your back.
~*~
Find N.J. Cole
Blog
Facebook
Goodreads
Twitter
~*~
Talk About It
RT #Author N.J. Cole stops by to hang out with @AuthorSAJones! http://ow.ly/loPhw Plus info about Cole's Midnight Caller! #AGA3 #Read
I embarrass easily. I can write about all of this stuff, but I can’t say the “P” word out loud.
2. Did you always plan on writing?
No, I have an entire other career, Master’s degree and all. This was just to get the thoughts out of my head to relax. I had no idea this many people would like my writing. I am so excited about it now though, and it’s my fantasy to be able to just write all day.
3. What type of food is your favorite? Does it ever make an appearance in your writing?
I love ice cream, and if there is a sequel to Midnight Caller I plan to write an entire scene around it in the sequel.
4. What book has most influenced you as a whole person, not as a writer?
This is going to sound odd, but The Grapes of Wrath. The final scene there is a woman nursing a stranger. She smiled and wondered if she was turned on. That led to my fascination with lactation and then other forms of nontraditional sex. It led me to search for fanfiction and eventually led me to write.
5. Do you prefer noise when you write, such as music or activity, or do you prefer to write in silence?
I can’t write with any noise. I sometimes hide if my kids are too loud. If there is music on, I feel like throwing my laptop out the window. I just can’t think.
6. How does your family feel about your writing?
They love it and my kids are all writing their own books.
7. Did you do any traveling for your writing?
Not yet, but I see a trip to Australia for “research” soon. That is where Bec lives. :)
8. What is your favorite piece that you have ever written?
I love this version of Midnight Caller. It is by far my most polished piece. I do love Involuntary Rapture though. I think my drabble: The Second Elizabeth is neat, too. It has 84 chapters with exactly 100 words per chapter ;)
9. Do you stick to one genre when you write, or several? What genre(s)?
I try to write everything, but there is always a romance theme and a happily ever after. Midnight Caller is so many categories: Romance, Erotica, BDSM, Sci/fi.
10. Do you have a favorite character in your most recent release? Who is it?
I love Shane. He is like the guy every girl wants. Just so funny, and even though his wife isn’t all bubbly all the time, he loves her and defends her.
11. Are you working on anything now?
I’m considering a sequel for Midnight Caller and I’m working on a collaboration for a book that will consist of three short stories.
12. Any advice for aspiring writers and fellow authors before you go?
I always advise to write in Google docs. It’s the safest place to write and you can have people read and edit while you work. If you are going off track or get stuck, they will have your back.
~*~
Find N.J. Cole
Blog
Goodreads
~*~
Talk About It
RT #Author N.J. Cole stops by to hang out with @AuthorSAJones! http://ow.ly/loPhw Plus info about Cole's Midnight Caller! #AGA3 #Read
May 24, 2013
Memorial Day
Many of you may know already, but we are a military family. My husband proudly serves in our United States Navy, and I am beyond proud to be his wife. This week, we found out that he is moving up in rank, and this morning he was "frocked". This means that he may wear his new rank on his uniform. In "Love Something Fierce" I even wrote a military moment: the joyous moment that is Homecoming. Yes, with a capital "H".
However, this upcoming Monday, I will not be posting, and here's why (post pulled from my Facebook page to share):
As you all prepare for what I'm sure has been a long-awaited holiday weekend with your families; please, don't forget the meaning of Memorial Day. While our family will be hosting a BBQ this weekend, there will also be a table set up in the corner. It won't be a small one; tiny, even, but it will be there. There is a ceremony with this table... This table, is the POW/MIA table.
"Those who have served and those currently serving the uniformed services of the United States are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured and may still be enduring the agonies of pain, deprivation and internment.
Before we begin our activities this evening, we will pause to recognize our POW's and MIA's. We call your attention to this small table, which occupies a place of dignity and honor near the head table. It is set for one, symbolizing the fact that members of our armed forces are missing from our ranks. They are referred to as POW's and MIA's. We call them comrades.
They are unable to be with their loved ones and families tonight, so we join together to pay our humble tribute to them, and bear witness to their continued absence.
This table, set for one, is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner, alone against his or her suppressors.
The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.
The single red rose in the vase, signifies the blood they many have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while awaiting their return.
The yellow ribbon on the vase represents the yellow ribbons worn on the lapels of the thousands who demand with unyielding determination a proper accounting of our comrades who are not among us tonight.
A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate.
The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless fallen tears of families as they wait.
The glass is inverted - they cannot toast with us this night.
The chair is empty - they are not here.
The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.
Let us pray to the supreme commander that all of our comrades will soon be back within our ranks.
Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices.
May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families."
Remember this holiday weekend: Some gave all.
However, this upcoming Monday, I will not be posting, and here's why (post pulled from my Facebook page to share):
As you all prepare for what I'm sure has been a long-awaited holiday weekend with your families; please, don't forget the meaning of Memorial Day. While our family will be hosting a BBQ this weekend, there will also be a table set up in the corner. It won't be a small one; tiny, even, but it will be there. There is a ceremony with this table... This table, is the POW/MIA table.
"Those who have served and those currently serving the uniformed services of the United States are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured and may still be enduring the agonies of pain, deprivation and internment.
Before we begin our activities this evening, we will pause to recognize our POW's and MIA's. We call your attention to this small table, which occupies a place of dignity and honor near the head table. It is set for one, symbolizing the fact that members of our armed forces are missing from our ranks. They are referred to as POW's and MIA's. We call them comrades.
They are unable to be with their loved ones and families tonight, so we join together to pay our humble tribute to them, and bear witness to their continued absence.
This table, set for one, is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner, alone against his or her suppressors.
The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.
The single red rose in the vase, signifies the blood they many have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. This rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while awaiting their return.
The yellow ribbon on the vase represents the yellow ribbons worn on the lapels of the thousands who demand with unyielding determination a proper accounting of our comrades who are not among us tonight.
A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate.
The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless fallen tears of families as they wait.
The glass is inverted - they cannot toast with us this night.
The chair is empty - they are not here.
The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.
Let us pray to the supreme commander that all of our comrades will soon be back within our ranks.
Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices.
May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families."
Remember this holiday weekend: Some gave all.
May 22, 2013
The Editor Calls
Just a quick post to say I'm still alive! Also, there's still a tree that's covering most of my yard. Yeesh!
The tree has to be put off for now, though; I've got work to do!
*Puts on editing cape and swooshes off*
...
Man, I wish I had an editing cape...
The tree has to be put off for now, though; I've got work to do!
*Puts on editing cape and swooshes off*
...
Man, I wish I had an editing cape...
May 20, 2013
Review: "La Cala" by N. Wood
*Please note: Reviews are not done on a "star" basis. These are purely written reviews of stories on a content basis.*
When Lance McCarthy chose Ibiza for his holiday destination, he didn't expect to spend the week with Malachy Walsh, an Irish man dressed in blue striped pyjamas.
La Cala is an erotic short story that may well bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.
"La Cala" on US Amazon
"La Cala" on UK Amazon
"La Cala" on Goodreads
~*~
Let me just start by saying: wow!
I am not a reader of male on male stories, usually. I don't have anything against them, it's just not usually my type of story. I did know before reviewing that fellow author N. Wood was a M/M author, though, and decided to take a chance.
I am not regretting it at all.
I actually read through "La Cala" three times before typing up my review. The first two times were for the sole purpose of writing the review, but the third was for enjoyment purposes. The characters aren't outlandish types; they're just regular people enjoying their respective holidays. While initially you only follow the holiday of Lance, the introduction of Malachy (whose name I am in LOVE with), Wood effortlessly blends the men's holiday lives into a shared experience.
It is apparent by the information provided in the story that while locations are fictional, they were well thought out. There are also a few other things within the story that required obvious research, that Wood did take the time to complete, and that says enough in itself. If an author doesn't care enough about the work to do a little extra, it can make or break the story. Wood is obviously passionate about her work, and is willing to go that extra mile to provide a complete and compelling story for the reader.
A quick read, "La Cala" does not disappoint, keeping you on your toes for the ENTIRE story. I don't want to give anything away, but the ending of "La Cala" makes you feel more things in a single moment than some people feel in a year.
While I may not be rushing out to read more M/M stories on my own; I will be one of the first to get N. Wood's next release, Woodshed Wishes, which will be out in September 2013.
~*~
Find N. Wood
Blog Facebook
Goodreads
Twitter
~*~
Tweet About It
RT @WhitlockWood's new story will bring a smile to your heart and a tear to your eye! Review by @AuthorSAJones: http://ow.ly/lcDMb
When Lance McCarthy chose Ibiza for his holiday destination, he didn't expect to spend the week with Malachy Walsh, an Irish man dressed in blue striped pyjamas.La Cala is an erotic short story that may well bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.
"La Cala" on US Amazon
"La Cala" on UK Amazon
"La Cala" on Goodreads
~*~
Let me just start by saying: wow!
I am not a reader of male on male stories, usually. I don't have anything against them, it's just not usually my type of story. I did know before reviewing that fellow author N. Wood was a M/M author, though, and decided to take a chance.
I am not regretting it at all.
I actually read through "La Cala" three times before typing up my review. The first two times were for the sole purpose of writing the review, but the third was for enjoyment purposes. The characters aren't outlandish types; they're just regular people enjoying their respective holidays. While initially you only follow the holiday of Lance, the introduction of Malachy (whose name I am in LOVE with), Wood effortlessly blends the men's holiday lives into a shared experience.
It is apparent by the information provided in the story that while locations are fictional, they were well thought out. There are also a few other things within the story that required obvious research, that Wood did take the time to complete, and that says enough in itself. If an author doesn't care enough about the work to do a little extra, it can make or break the story. Wood is obviously passionate about her work, and is willing to go that extra mile to provide a complete and compelling story for the reader.
A quick read, "La Cala" does not disappoint, keeping you on your toes for the ENTIRE story. I don't want to give anything away, but the ending of "La Cala" makes you feel more things in a single moment than some people feel in a year.
While I may not be rushing out to read more M/M stories on my own; I will be one of the first to get N. Wood's next release, Woodshed Wishes, which will be out in September 2013.
~*~
Find N. Wood
Blog Facebook
Goodreads
~*~
Tweet About It
RT @WhitlockWood's new story will bring a smile to your heart and a tear to your eye! Review by @AuthorSAJones: http://ow.ly/lcDMb
May 18, 2013
Cover Reveal: The Journey to Forever by Lisa Bilbrey
Finally back in the warm embrace of his family, Travis McCoy relishes every moment he gets to spend with his wife and son. After almost losing them due to his own selfishness, he makes the decision to never let go of his family again. With his plan set in motion, Travis, Penelope, and Max start a new journey, one that leads them to forever.
About the Author
Lisa Bilbrey is a mom of three and has been married to her high school sweetheart since 1996. Finding a love in the written word, she started writing as a way to express herself. From the first word she wrote, she'd found her heart and soul. Always willing to learn, she's spends much of her time trying to improve as a storyteller.
In late 2011, Lisa opened Renaissance Romance Publishing with Michele Richard and Laura Braley.
Author Links
GoodreadsFacebookTwitter Blog Amazon Barnes & Noble
Renaissance Romance Publishing About.me
May 17, 2013
RenRomPub Update!
Popping in long enough to make sure y'all stop on by tomorrow! There's a cover reveal from Renaissance Romance Publishing's Lisa Bilbrey for her upcoming short story, "The Journey to Forever". I can't wait to share it with all of you!
May 13, 2013
Thanks, Mother Nature!
Maybe it was because I forgot to show love to Mother Nature; maybe it's because I complained about my niece not wanting to take a nap; maybe it's because I was grumpy about my husband not being home for Mother's Day due to work... I don't know what it was, but Mother Nature decided to gift us with a tree! On our roof.
Yeeeeeesh.
THANK GOD, our house IS intact, and structurally sound. Though we did have to evacuate long enough for our local fire department to come out and make sure of such. (THANK Y'ALL!!!) We lost the gutters on the back half of the house, and we do have to repair the fence, as well as clean up this tree.
With that being said; I will NOT be posting this Wednesday. I will, instead, be working on cleaning up the tree and excess branches. Yay, fun!
We're all safe and sound, and that I'm thankful for.
Yeeeeeesh.
THANK GOD, our house IS intact, and structurally sound. Though we did have to evacuate long enough for our local fire department to come out and make sure of such. (THANK Y'ALL!!!) We lost the gutters on the back half of the house, and we do have to repair the fence, as well as clean up this tree.
With that being said; I will NOT be posting this Wednesday. I will, instead, be working on cleaning up the tree and excess branches. Yay, fun!
We're all safe and sound, and that I'm thankful for.
May 10, 2013
Don't Forget About Mom!
This weekend I'm doing some family things, such as preparing a brunch for my mother, grandmother, aunt, and my cousin; though Cousin is helping to host. This entails our little house being packed with six adults, a teenager with an attitude, and five kids under the age of twelve. Yiiikes. Lol!
It's not often our whole family really gets together, though, so it's sure to be great fun!
Don't forget about your mothers this weekend! Like it or not, if it weren't for them, you wouldn't be here!
It's not often our whole family really gets together, though, so it's sure to be great fun!
Don't forget about your mothers this weekend! Like it or not, if it weren't for them, you wouldn't be here!
