Beth Ciotta's Blog, page 3
September 15, 2015
Romantic Adventure -- FREE for Two Days Only!
Popping in with a super cool sales alert! Does FREE count as a sale? Because that's what I'm talking here. A chance to read
LASSO THE MOON
, book one of Peacemakers: Old West, for
FREE
today and tomorrow only via Kindle!
Already read it? Gift it to a friend. For Free! Or share the love and laughter by sharing the news with fellow readers! As always, I thank you for your amazing support.
Enjoy an Excerpt!
CHAPTER ONE Territory of Arizona, 1877 He’d kill Mason Burke if he weren’t already dead. Damn his will and that damned stipulation. Joshua Grant threw back a shot of rotgut, marveling at the dead man’s tenacity. Six feet under, and his uncle had still managed to get in the last word. “Can I get ya’ anything else, Sheriff Grant?”
“Yeah, a wife.” Josh glanced up from the bullet-nicked bar to the scrunched-up face of its owner. “Never mind. Hit me with another shot. On second thought, make it a double.” His future as a wedded theater owner flashed before his eyes. “Hell. Just slide me the bottle and be done with it.“Sure ‘nuff, Sheriff.”“Stop calling me that.” He snatched up the quart bottle of whiskey Jimmy Hell slid his way. “I told you. I turned in my badge yesterday.”The proprietor of Hell’s Drinkin’ Hole indicated the rowdy clientele with a flick of his tattered bar rag. “So that’s what this party’s for?” Smirking, the hairy-knuckled wiseass braced his beefy forearms on the splintered ledge of his bar and leaned forward. “Funny, but I can’t recall your reason for leaving town exactly.”Josh leaned forward as well. “That’s because I never said exactly.” He straightened with a smile and let the taunt settle. Maybe it was the liquor or maybe he was just plain out of his head, but he almost felt giddy when Jimmy narrowed his eyes. Josh had been spoiling for a fight for days. Since Mason wasn’t available, he’d settle on the nearest pair of fists. Even if those fists were the size of Christmas hams. Only Jimmy Hell’s attention shifted to the swinging doors. “What the . . . ?” His bushy brows cut into a stern V. “Here comes trouble. Good thing you’re here, Sheriff. I can’t afford another brawl this week. I’m down to six good tables and I’m lucky if I got ten chairs with all their legs.” “Thanks for the warning.” Josh tore the cork out of the bottle with his teeth. Spitting it clean over the barkeep’s shoulder, he muttered, “I’ll be mindful of where I sit. And stop calling me Sheriff. I’m not the law anymore.” That said, he tipped the bottle to his lips and turned to see what form of trouble had stumbled into the saloon. Just for curiosity’s sake. He’d figured on spying Rosco Timbers or Newt Gibbons, two of Yuma’s more cantankerous yahoos, seeing that the mean-spirited Riley brothers were already in attendance. So he near about choked on his half-swallowed drink when he spotted the fresh-faced half-pint standing in the doorway, a bulging carpetbag in hand. From a distance it was right hard to tell if the kid wearing baggy denim trousers, a faded-blue, knee-length shirt, and a dirt-brown fedora was a boy or a girl. A heartbeat later the half-pint stepped forward and tripped over Moe Wiggin’s king-sized boot. The hat went flying and ebony, waist-length hair spilled out. One mystery solved.Moe scooped up the fedora and plopped it back on the young woman’s head. She smiled at the old coot as she elbowed her way through the redeye-guzzling, cheroot-smoking crowd. Josh knew everyone in and around Yuma. He didn’t recognize her. Cute as a baby coon, and his gut warned twice as bothersome. The kid navigated her unwieldy bag through the maze of occupied tables and chairs, offering apologies as she bumped arms and legs along the way. Intrigued, Josh trained his gaze on the determined runt as she cut a deliberate path through the boodle of pokes and doves, suggesting she knew exactly where she was headed. “If you got any four-legged chairs in the vicinity of the piano, Jimmy, I suggest you clear ‘em out.” Josh grabbed his quart bottle and trailed the girl. Maybe he’d get his fight after all. Unfortunately, his progress was hindered by a slew of well-wishers. Assorted doves kissed him for old-times sake. Friends and acquaintances slapped his back or pumped his arm in enthusiastic handshakes. They all wished him good luck. The law-abiding men of Yuma had insisted on throwing him this going-away party. Which was fine, dandy, and thoughtful, except he wasn’t all that pleased to be going. That had been Mason’s idea. “Damn him,” he muttered again for good measure. Miserable, and not near drunk enough, Josh tossed back a healthy swig of whiskey before vying for a spot behind Moe Wiggins, who stood on his one good leg outside a two-man-deep crowd. “What’s going on?” Moe squinted at the kid who was in an animated discussion with the saloon’s pianist. “Ain’t sure. All I know is that Fingers was in the middle of Buffalo Gals and that girl elbowed her way in and put a stop to it.”“Why?”Moe squinted harder, as though it might somehow improve his hearing. “Can’t hear what she’s sayin’.”Neither could Josh. His party had grown from loud to deafening. Jimmy Hell was right about one thing. Trouble was brewing. He could see that even in his bleary-eyed state. “Whatever she’s up to,” Moe said, “it ain’t good.” “It ain’t my concern.” But, for the life of him, he couldn’t tear his gaze from the petite female. A cute little bunny trapped by a pack of wolves, the sharpest teeth belonging to Burgess and Billy Riley. Moe drained his beer, sleeved a dribble of brew from his pointy chin. “You’ve never been one to let a boilin’ pot overflow.” “I’m no longer the law in these parts.” Josh figured if he repeated it enough times, he’d get used to the idea. Still and all, he couldn’t bring himself to ignore the baby-faced tomboy. The need to protect was a right hard habit to break. Unable to resist, he moved closer to the action. “You don’t understand, sir.” She dropped her bag near the rickety piano and shook a cramp from her hand. “This is an emergency. I’m in desperate need of your instrument. If you would only accommodate me—” “Accommodate ya’?” Fingers raised an amused eyebrow above the rim of his wired spectacles. “Ain’t never heard it called that before, honey.”His drunken entourage snickered. “You needn’t worry,” she hurried on. “I’m very good.” Fingers’s other eyebrow shot up. “You don’t say?”She smiled and nodded. “I promise you, you’ll enjoy it.” Josh bit back a groan. How naïve could one girl be not to realize how a whole passel of men were twisting her innocent words? “Listen,” Fingers said, mopping his brow as though the temperature had shot up from eighty to a hundred. “I’m in the middle of a slew of requests. Give me a few minutes and then—”“A few minutes? It’s been days!” “That long?” Fingers traded a smirk with the leering audience. “Well, now. I reckon I could take a short break.” He pinned her with a smarmy look. “Just how good are ya’, honey?”“My brothers think I’m excellent.” The pianist hooted. “Your brothers?” Owl-eyed and eager for details, the snickering mob leaned forward. Josh swayed right along with them. The girl blinked at Fingers. A few seconds later a blush crept up her neck, making a beeline for her cheeks. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have . . . it’s just that I’m . . .” She waved off her words and glanced toward an empty table. “I’ll wait over there until you’ve finished your requests.” Relieved, Josh reached back to massage a crick from his neck. At least the kid had sense enough to vamoose before things turned ugly. Burgess Riley clamped his burly hand over her wrist and whirled her back around. “What’s your hurry, sweet thing? If Fingers there ain’t willin’ to accommodate ya’, I sure as hell am.”“Me, too!” chimed his brother. Her face lit up like a noonday sky. “You have a piano, too?” The crowd guffawed.Josh rolled his eyes. The twinge in his neck pinched. “No piano. But don’t worry. We’ll make our own music.” Burgess forced her hand over the crotch of his filthy trousers. “Let’s put them talented fingers to good use. What do ya’ say, wildcat?” Josh chucked his whiskey bottle and pushed forward. Here comes the fight.The kid acted faster, kneeing Burgess square in the crotch. For the love of . . . Josh grimaced as the man’s wounded howl sliced through him and every other man in the gurdy. Wide-eyed, the raven-haired ball-buster turned to run and slammed into Billy’s scrawny chest. Flashing a gap-toothed grin, he snatched her up. “Gotcha!”She hauled back that same deadly leg and kicked him in the shin. Billy dropped her and yowled. Hopping up and down on one foot, he spewed obscenities raunchy enough to make a hash slinger blush.Looking only slightly embarrassed, the girl backed into a wobbly-legged Burgess. Grabbing her by the forearms, the yahoo hauled her backside hard against his injured region and snarled. “You’ve messed with the wrong man, sweet thing.” Josh moved faster this time. When the girl wrenched left he threw a right, ramming his knuckles into Burgess’s mouth. The man flew backward, the kid with him. Quick as lightning, Josh snatched her up and into his arms. The fedora tumbled to the floor, allowing him a full view of her heart-shaped face. The patrons’ slurred heckles faded to a drone as he studied the petite minx up close and intimate like. Her smooth complexion, almighty pale in contrast to her dark hair, suggested she spent more time indoors than out. A surprise, given her tomboy appearance. Even more surprising was the jolt of lust he felt when he gazed into her walnut-brown eyes, eyes that sparkled with an intoxicating mixture of innocence and desire. She quirked a shy smile and a queer lump lodged in his throat. “What the hell?” His gruff tone snapped her out of her moony-eyed daze. Blushing now, the girl struggled like a roped stallion to gain her freedom. “Let me go, you big ape!”The crowd’s whoops and hollers intensified as another skirmish heated up between the Riley boys and a couple of do-gooders. Josh was too busy protecting his gingambobs from Miss Musicmaker’s deadly knee and—Christ almighty—elbows to pay much mind. “Watch out!”At Moe’s warning, Josh dipped the feisty minx just as an empty bottle whizzed past her pretty head. At the same time a chair sailed through the air, shattering the front pane. An out-and-out brawl erupted. Thanks to Mason, Josh had a lifetime of bar brawls ahead of him. From what he’d heard, the patrons of the Desert Moon opera house were a rowdy bunch. At least his new life wouldn’t be dull. He glanced down at the pissed off half-pint. “Let’s get you out of here, sweetheart.” “I’m not your sweetheart.” “Whose sweetheart are you?” “No one’s.” Scowling, she reached behind her and tried prying his hands from her waist. “I . . . I mean someone’s. Some big fellow. An ox of a man who’s going to beat you to a pulp if you don’t let me go.”“You’re a terrible liar.” He hiked her higher in his arms and caught a whiff of her glossy hair. Lilacs. The sweet, flowery scent blindsided him, stealing him back to his childhood. A time he preferred to forget. Squashing the bittersweet memories before they reached full bloom, Josh focused on the swinging doors. Three men crashed into a nearby table, fists flying. Cursing, he hastened his steps, the girl’s best interests at heart. Damn if the menace didn’t struggle harder as he hauled her out of harm’s way.“I’m warning you, mister!” “Warn away.”She elbowed him in the gut. A second later she kicked him in the shin. “You’re making it difficult for me to behave in a valiant fashion here, kid.”She slapped at his hands. “Don’t make me hurt you.”Josh laughed for the first time in over a week. Two feet from the doors, she twisted in his arms, reared back and socked him. “Son of a—” He bit off the curse and worked his offended jaw. “What’d you do that for?”“I’m sorry. But I did warn you.”“So you did. Now I’m warning you. Stop fussing. We’re leaving.”“But—” “I warned you.” Grinning, he hauled her up and over his shoulder like a sack of grain and whisked her from the saloon. The rowdy mob cheered.
Already read it? Gift it to a friend. For Free! Or share the love and laughter by sharing the news with fellow readers! As always, I thank you for your amazing support.
Enjoy an Excerpt!
CHAPTER ONE Territory of Arizona, 1877 He’d kill Mason Burke if he weren’t already dead. Damn his will and that damned stipulation. Joshua Grant threw back a shot of rotgut, marveling at the dead man’s tenacity. Six feet under, and his uncle had still managed to get in the last word. “Can I get ya’ anything else, Sheriff Grant?”
“Yeah, a wife.” Josh glanced up from the bullet-nicked bar to the scrunched-up face of its owner. “Never mind. Hit me with another shot. On second thought, make it a double.” His future as a wedded theater owner flashed before his eyes. “Hell. Just slide me the bottle and be done with it.“Sure ‘nuff, Sheriff.”“Stop calling me that.” He snatched up the quart bottle of whiskey Jimmy Hell slid his way. “I told you. I turned in my badge yesterday.”The proprietor of Hell’s Drinkin’ Hole indicated the rowdy clientele with a flick of his tattered bar rag. “So that’s what this party’s for?” Smirking, the hairy-knuckled wiseass braced his beefy forearms on the splintered ledge of his bar and leaned forward. “Funny, but I can’t recall your reason for leaving town exactly.”Josh leaned forward as well. “That’s because I never said exactly.” He straightened with a smile and let the taunt settle. Maybe it was the liquor or maybe he was just plain out of his head, but he almost felt giddy when Jimmy narrowed his eyes. Josh had been spoiling for a fight for days. Since Mason wasn’t available, he’d settle on the nearest pair of fists. Even if those fists were the size of Christmas hams. Only Jimmy Hell’s attention shifted to the swinging doors. “What the . . . ?” His bushy brows cut into a stern V. “Here comes trouble. Good thing you’re here, Sheriff. I can’t afford another brawl this week. I’m down to six good tables and I’m lucky if I got ten chairs with all their legs.” “Thanks for the warning.” Josh tore the cork out of the bottle with his teeth. Spitting it clean over the barkeep’s shoulder, he muttered, “I’ll be mindful of where I sit. And stop calling me Sheriff. I’m not the law anymore.” That said, he tipped the bottle to his lips and turned to see what form of trouble had stumbled into the saloon. Just for curiosity’s sake. He’d figured on spying Rosco Timbers or Newt Gibbons, two of Yuma’s more cantankerous yahoos, seeing that the mean-spirited Riley brothers were already in attendance. So he near about choked on his half-swallowed drink when he spotted the fresh-faced half-pint standing in the doorway, a bulging carpetbag in hand. From a distance it was right hard to tell if the kid wearing baggy denim trousers, a faded-blue, knee-length shirt, and a dirt-brown fedora was a boy or a girl. A heartbeat later the half-pint stepped forward and tripped over Moe Wiggin’s king-sized boot. The hat went flying and ebony, waist-length hair spilled out. One mystery solved.Moe scooped up the fedora and plopped it back on the young woman’s head. She smiled at the old coot as she elbowed her way through the redeye-guzzling, cheroot-smoking crowd. Josh knew everyone in and around Yuma. He didn’t recognize her. Cute as a baby coon, and his gut warned twice as bothersome. The kid navigated her unwieldy bag through the maze of occupied tables and chairs, offering apologies as she bumped arms and legs along the way. Intrigued, Josh trained his gaze on the determined runt as she cut a deliberate path through the boodle of pokes and doves, suggesting she knew exactly where she was headed. “If you got any four-legged chairs in the vicinity of the piano, Jimmy, I suggest you clear ‘em out.” Josh grabbed his quart bottle and trailed the girl. Maybe he’d get his fight after all. Unfortunately, his progress was hindered by a slew of well-wishers. Assorted doves kissed him for old-times sake. Friends and acquaintances slapped his back or pumped his arm in enthusiastic handshakes. They all wished him good luck. The law-abiding men of Yuma had insisted on throwing him this going-away party. Which was fine, dandy, and thoughtful, except he wasn’t all that pleased to be going. That had been Mason’s idea. “Damn him,” he muttered again for good measure. Miserable, and not near drunk enough, Josh tossed back a healthy swig of whiskey before vying for a spot behind Moe Wiggins, who stood on his one good leg outside a two-man-deep crowd. “What’s going on?” Moe squinted at the kid who was in an animated discussion with the saloon’s pianist. “Ain’t sure. All I know is that Fingers was in the middle of Buffalo Gals and that girl elbowed her way in and put a stop to it.”“Why?”Moe squinted harder, as though it might somehow improve his hearing. “Can’t hear what she’s sayin’.”Neither could Josh. His party had grown from loud to deafening. Jimmy Hell was right about one thing. Trouble was brewing. He could see that even in his bleary-eyed state. “Whatever she’s up to,” Moe said, “it ain’t good.” “It ain’t my concern.” But, for the life of him, he couldn’t tear his gaze from the petite female. A cute little bunny trapped by a pack of wolves, the sharpest teeth belonging to Burgess and Billy Riley. Moe drained his beer, sleeved a dribble of brew from his pointy chin. “You’ve never been one to let a boilin’ pot overflow.” “I’m no longer the law in these parts.” Josh figured if he repeated it enough times, he’d get used to the idea. Still and all, he couldn’t bring himself to ignore the baby-faced tomboy. The need to protect was a right hard habit to break. Unable to resist, he moved closer to the action. “You don’t understand, sir.” She dropped her bag near the rickety piano and shook a cramp from her hand. “This is an emergency. I’m in desperate need of your instrument. If you would only accommodate me—” “Accommodate ya’?” Fingers raised an amused eyebrow above the rim of his wired spectacles. “Ain’t never heard it called that before, honey.”His drunken entourage snickered. “You needn’t worry,” she hurried on. “I’m very good.” Fingers’s other eyebrow shot up. “You don’t say?”She smiled and nodded. “I promise you, you’ll enjoy it.” Josh bit back a groan. How naïve could one girl be not to realize how a whole passel of men were twisting her innocent words? “Listen,” Fingers said, mopping his brow as though the temperature had shot up from eighty to a hundred. “I’m in the middle of a slew of requests. Give me a few minutes and then—”“A few minutes? It’s been days!” “That long?” Fingers traded a smirk with the leering audience. “Well, now. I reckon I could take a short break.” He pinned her with a smarmy look. “Just how good are ya’, honey?”“My brothers think I’m excellent.” The pianist hooted. “Your brothers?” Owl-eyed and eager for details, the snickering mob leaned forward. Josh swayed right along with them. The girl blinked at Fingers. A few seconds later a blush crept up her neck, making a beeline for her cheeks. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have . . . it’s just that I’m . . .” She waved off her words and glanced toward an empty table. “I’ll wait over there until you’ve finished your requests.” Relieved, Josh reached back to massage a crick from his neck. At least the kid had sense enough to vamoose before things turned ugly. Burgess Riley clamped his burly hand over her wrist and whirled her back around. “What’s your hurry, sweet thing? If Fingers there ain’t willin’ to accommodate ya’, I sure as hell am.”“Me, too!” chimed his brother. Her face lit up like a noonday sky. “You have a piano, too?” The crowd guffawed.Josh rolled his eyes. The twinge in his neck pinched. “No piano. But don’t worry. We’ll make our own music.” Burgess forced her hand over the crotch of his filthy trousers. “Let’s put them talented fingers to good use. What do ya’ say, wildcat?” Josh chucked his whiskey bottle and pushed forward. Here comes the fight.The kid acted faster, kneeing Burgess square in the crotch. For the love of . . . Josh grimaced as the man’s wounded howl sliced through him and every other man in the gurdy. Wide-eyed, the raven-haired ball-buster turned to run and slammed into Billy’s scrawny chest. Flashing a gap-toothed grin, he snatched her up. “Gotcha!”She hauled back that same deadly leg and kicked him in the shin. Billy dropped her and yowled. Hopping up and down on one foot, he spewed obscenities raunchy enough to make a hash slinger blush.Looking only slightly embarrassed, the girl backed into a wobbly-legged Burgess. Grabbing her by the forearms, the yahoo hauled her backside hard against his injured region and snarled. “You’ve messed with the wrong man, sweet thing.” Josh moved faster this time. When the girl wrenched left he threw a right, ramming his knuckles into Burgess’s mouth. The man flew backward, the kid with him. Quick as lightning, Josh snatched her up and into his arms. The fedora tumbled to the floor, allowing him a full view of her heart-shaped face. The patrons’ slurred heckles faded to a drone as he studied the petite minx up close and intimate like. Her smooth complexion, almighty pale in contrast to her dark hair, suggested she spent more time indoors than out. A surprise, given her tomboy appearance. Even more surprising was the jolt of lust he felt when he gazed into her walnut-brown eyes, eyes that sparkled with an intoxicating mixture of innocence and desire. She quirked a shy smile and a queer lump lodged in his throat. “What the hell?” His gruff tone snapped her out of her moony-eyed daze. Blushing now, the girl struggled like a roped stallion to gain her freedom. “Let me go, you big ape!”The crowd’s whoops and hollers intensified as another skirmish heated up between the Riley boys and a couple of do-gooders. Josh was too busy protecting his gingambobs from Miss Musicmaker’s deadly knee and—Christ almighty—elbows to pay much mind. “Watch out!”At Moe’s warning, Josh dipped the feisty minx just as an empty bottle whizzed past her pretty head. At the same time a chair sailed through the air, shattering the front pane. An out-and-out brawl erupted. Thanks to Mason, Josh had a lifetime of bar brawls ahead of him. From what he’d heard, the patrons of the Desert Moon opera house were a rowdy bunch. At least his new life wouldn’t be dull. He glanced down at the pissed off half-pint. “Let’s get you out of here, sweetheart.” “I’m not your sweetheart.” “Whose sweetheart are you?” “No one’s.” Scowling, she reached behind her and tried prying his hands from her waist. “I . . . I mean someone’s. Some big fellow. An ox of a man who’s going to beat you to a pulp if you don’t let me go.”“You’re a terrible liar.” He hiked her higher in his arms and caught a whiff of her glossy hair. Lilacs. The sweet, flowery scent blindsided him, stealing him back to his childhood. A time he preferred to forget. Squashing the bittersweet memories before they reached full bloom, Josh focused on the swinging doors. Three men crashed into a nearby table, fists flying. Cursing, he hastened his steps, the girl’s best interests at heart. Damn if the menace didn’t struggle harder as he hauled her out of harm’s way.“I’m warning you, mister!” “Warn away.”She elbowed him in the gut. A second later she kicked him in the shin. “You’re making it difficult for me to behave in a valiant fashion here, kid.”She slapped at his hands. “Don’t make me hurt you.”Josh laughed for the first time in over a week. Two feet from the doors, she twisted in his arms, reared back and socked him. “Son of a—” He bit off the curse and worked his offended jaw. “What’d you do that for?”“I’m sorry. But I did warn you.”“So you did. Now I’m warning you. Stop fussing. We’re leaving.”“But—” “I warned you.” Grinning, he hauled her up and over his shoulder like a sack of grain and whisked her from the saloon. The rowdy mob cheered.
July 31, 2015
Celebrating the Joy of Romance
August is Read-A-Romance Month and I've been invited to join in the huge celebration. And when I say huge I mean MEGA. After you read my bit visit the special website dedicated to this party. You'll find a list of 93 of your favorite authors. All of them will be featured and they're all hosting giveaways. Then hop over to Lorelei's Lit Lair where you'll find more participating authors. Lorelei is a huge supporter of the romance community. On August 1 you can read her featured essay
here
.
The theme for this month's celebration is "The Joy of Romance". Read on for my short essay, a fun Q&A, my personal authors recs, and a giveaway!
Love Knows No Limits
One of the things I love about romantic fiction is that love knows no limits. Romance thrives in every decade, every century. Love conquers in every world--real or imagined. Reading about, writing about, or watching a movie about a man and woman falling in love fills my heart with joy. I don't care where or when that story takes place. I'll follow a well-written and passionate hero and heroine anywhere. Whether it's the wild west, the Victorian Age, Medieval times, an alternate world or a modern-day small town. I'm there! I not only enjoy a good love story, but I'm also keen on a grand adventure. My reading (and viewing) taste also feeds my own writing. My imagination bounces all over the place and luckily, happily many readers are willing to genre-hop with me. Follows a peek into my various "joys".
Joy #1 -- CONTEMPORARY
Romances that take place in modern times are especially appealing because they seem so real. We can easily put ourself in the hero or heroine's shoes. We're more familiar with their challenges and surroundings than, for instance, a couple from the 15th century. For me contemporary romance is a comfort read and a pleasure to write. I've explored the worlds of CEOs, con-artists, bodyguards, librarians, entertainers, publicists, bakers, and shoe boutique owners to name a few. From small-town romance, to modern-day fairy tales, to romantic suspense--I dabble in it all because I find wonder in every facet of our modern lives.
Joy #2 -- HISTORICAL My first love as a reader was historical romance. Westerns, Medieval, Regency, Victorian. I'm fascinated with the past--how we lived, what we wore, how we spoke. Living vicariously through the characters--without having to sacrifice modern conveniences--is a guilty pleasure I indulge time and again. Aside from reading historical romance, I'm addicted to period films and cable series. Last of the Mohicans, Braveheart, Shakespeare in Love, and Sense and Sensibility are just a few of my longtime favorite films. Current series addictions include: Downton Abby, Musketeers, Outlander, and Poldark. As far as writing historicals, the most daunting aspect is the research. It's intense, but it's also inspiring.Whether I'm writing straight historical or alternate history, fact-based research is key in transporting you to another time.
Joy #3 -- PARANORMALGhosts, time-travel, reincarnation, steampunk, witches and magick... These are just a few other-worldly or alternate world aspect that appeal to me as a reader and writer. The ultimate make-believe for a happily-ever-after.
Keep scrolling for recs, a fun Q&A, and the Giveaway. Also would love for you to chime in... What's your favorite romantic genre and why?
Recommendations:
There are a few authors who, like me, enjoy exploring various sub-genres. Authors I'd follow anywhere! If you're not already familiar with them, be sure to check them out!
Zoe Archer (also writing as) Eva Leigh Julie Garwood Jayne Ann Krentz (also writing as) Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle Erin McCarthy Elle J Rossi Cynthia Valero
Questions for Author:
1 - Tell us about a moment in your life when you experienced sheer joy.
--This past spring my sisters (I have five) and I threw a surprise 75th birthday for our mom. We're scattered in various states and it is a rare moment when all of us are together. This was the first time in quite some time (except for a sad gathering). Seeing the look on my mom's face when she walked through the door--first seeing all the friends and family gathered in one place just for her... and then realizing ALL of her daughters were there... For me that was a moment of sheer joy.
2 - Tell us about a place that brings you joy, or is attached to a memory of joy.
--England is my happy place. I’ve been blessed and have traveled there several times over the last several years. The first time was my honeymoon. Naturally, I was extremely joyful. Deliriously in love, newly married and traveling overseas for the first time. We spent three short days in London and became instantly addicted. Since then we’ve also visited Bath, Oxford, Canterbury, York, Stratford Upon Avon… The list goes on and every single place filled me with joy. And contentment. Although I was born and raised in America, England feels like home. Perhaps it was… in another life.
3 - Tell us about a sound that brings you joy.
--The sound of silence brings me joy. In my former life, I made my living as a performer. Music inspired me and made me deliriously happy. I still love music, but these days silence makes me joyful. It allows my imagination to run wild. Also makes me feel peaceful—a most splendid state-of-being.
4- What recent book have you read that brought you joy. Why?
I’m presently reading a biography—DREAM MORE—by Dolly Parton. It’s delightful! Entertaining, motivating, and inspiring. 5 - And for fun, the joy of choice. Pick your Chris! Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Chris Rock, Chris Evans or Christopher Plummer (circ. 1964 aka Capt. Von Trapp?)
Yikes. I have to pick just one? Okay. First thought. Gut choice. Chris Hemsworth. A talented actor who seems incredibly devoted to his wife and children. That's sexy and attractive. Like his smile.
Giveaway!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Bio:
Storytelling comes naturally to award-winning author Beth Ciotta. Dubbed "fun and sexy" by Publisher's Weekly, Beth is published in contemporary, historical, steampunk, and paranormal romantic fiction. "I can't think of anything more fulfilling than writing stories where everyone (except the villain, of course) gets a happy ending!"
Beth lives in NJ with her husband, two zany dogs, and a crazy cat. A retired professional performer, Beth now pours her artistic passion into her writing. To learn more about her colorful life, visit her website at www.bethciotta.com
The theme for this month's celebration is "The Joy of Romance". Read on for my short essay, a fun Q&A, my personal authors recs, and a giveaway!
Love Knows No Limits
One of the things I love about romantic fiction is that love knows no limits. Romance thrives in every decade, every century. Love conquers in every world--real or imagined. Reading about, writing about, or watching a movie about a man and woman falling in love fills my heart with joy. I don't care where or when that story takes place. I'll follow a well-written and passionate hero and heroine anywhere. Whether it's the wild west, the Victorian Age, Medieval times, an alternate world or a modern-day small town. I'm there! I not only enjoy a good love story, but I'm also keen on a grand adventure. My reading (and viewing) taste also feeds my own writing. My imagination bounces all over the place and luckily, happily many readers are willing to genre-hop with me. Follows a peek into my various "joys".
Joy #1 -- CONTEMPORARY
Romances that take place in modern times are especially appealing because they seem so real. We can easily put ourself in the hero or heroine's shoes. We're more familiar with their challenges and surroundings than, for instance, a couple from the 15th century. For me contemporary romance is a comfort read and a pleasure to write. I've explored the worlds of CEOs, con-artists, bodyguards, librarians, entertainers, publicists, bakers, and shoe boutique owners to name a few. From small-town romance, to modern-day fairy tales, to romantic suspense--I dabble in it all because I find wonder in every facet of our modern lives.
Joy #2 -- HISTORICAL My first love as a reader was historical romance. Westerns, Medieval, Regency, Victorian. I'm fascinated with the past--how we lived, what we wore, how we spoke. Living vicariously through the characters--without having to sacrifice modern conveniences--is a guilty pleasure I indulge time and again. Aside from reading historical romance, I'm addicted to period films and cable series. Last of the Mohicans, Braveheart, Shakespeare in Love, and Sense and Sensibility are just a few of my longtime favorite films. Current series addictions include: Downton Abby, Musketeers, Outlander, and Poldark. As far as writing historicals, the most daunting aspect is the research. It's intense, but it's also inspiring.Whether I'm writing straight historical or alternate history, fact-based research is key in transporting you to another time.
Joy #3 -- PARANORMALGhosts, time-travel, reincarnation, steampunk, witches and magick... These are just a few other-worldly or alternate world aspect that appeal to me as a reader and writer. The ultimate make-believe for a happily-ever-after.
Keep scrolling for recs, a fun Q&A, and the Giveaway. Also would love for you to chime in... What's your favorite romantic genre and why?
Recommendations:
There are a few authors who, like me, enjoy exploring various sub-genres. Authors I'd follow anywhere! If you're not already familiar with them, be sure to check them out!
Zoe Archer (also writing as) Eva Leigh Julie Garwood Jayne Ann Krentz (also writing as) Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle Erin McCarthy Elle J Rossi Cynthia Valero
Questions for Author:
1 - Tell us about a moment in your life when you experienced sheer joy.
--This past spring my sisters (I have five) and I threw a surprise 75th birthday for our mom. We're scattered in various states and it is a rare moment when all of us are together. This was the first time in quite some time (except for a sad gathering). Seeing the look on my mom's face when she walked through the door--first seeing all the friends and family gathered in one place just for her... and then realizing ALL of her daughters were there... For me that was a moment of sheer joy.
2 - Tell us about a place that brings you joy, or is attached to a memory of joy.
--England is my happy place. I’ve been blessed and have traveled there several times over the last several years. The first time was my honeymoon. Naturally, I was extremely joyful. Deliriously in love, newly married and traveling overseas for the first time. We spent three short days in London and became instantly addicted. Since then we’ve also visited Bath, Oxford, Canterbury, York, Stratford Upon Avon… The list goes on and every single place filled me with joy. And contentment. Although I was born and raised in America, England feels like home. Perhaps it was… in another life.
3 - Tell us about a sound that brings you joy.
--The sound of silence brings me joy. In my former life, I made my living as a performer. Music inspired me and made me deliriously happy. I still love music, but these days silence makes me joyful. It allows my imagination to run wild. Also makes me feel peaceful—a most splendid state-of-being.
4- What recent book have you read that brought you joy. Why?
I’m presently reading a biography—DREAM MORE—by Dolly Parton. It’s delightful! Entertaining, motivating, and inspiring. 5 - And for fun, the joy of choice. Pick your Chris! Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Chris Rock, Chris Evans or Christopher Plummer (circ. 1964 aka Capt. Von Trapp?)
Yikes. I have to pick just one? Okay. First thought. Gut choice. Chris Hemsworth. A talented actor who seems incredibly devoted to his wife and children. That's sexy and attractive. Like his smile.
Giveaway!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Bio:
Storytelling comes naturally to award-winning author Beth Ciotta. Dubbed "fun and sexy" by Publisher's Weekly, Beth is published in contemporary, historical, steampunk, and paranormal romantic fiction. "I can't think of anything more fulfilling than writing stories where everyone (except the villain, of course) gets a happy ending!" Beth lives in NJ with her husband, two zany dogs, and a crazy cat. A retired professional performer, Beth now pours her artistic passion into her writing. To learn more about her colorful life, visit her website at www.bethciotta.com
July 26, 2015
A Project of Mystical Proportions
As noted in my previous post, I have devised a plan for broadening my horizons. I'm still in the midst of writing MARRY POPPINS, the third book in my modern-day fairy tale series--IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. And I'm jotting story notes for CHRISTMAS IMPOSSIBLE, WANDERLUST, and LOVING A LEGEND. All of these tales fall with the romance genre and they are slated for release within the next seven months. Yes, I'm pushing my limits. As I've said before, I'm not a speedy writer. However I am presently, fiercely focused and inspired.
Part of what's driving me is knowing that I'm working toward breaking into a new genre--Fantasy Mystery. THE EXTRAORDINARY QUEST OF ZOE ALBRIGHT (which I plan to Indie publish) is already a work-in-progress. Meanwhile my goal is to also sell a fantasy mystery project to a NYC traditional publisher. I spent the last three days heavily revising a proposal I started a while back for a fantasy mystery that takes place in the 1920s. I'm working new muscles big time. It's a challenge and it's a joy. I *think* I finally nailed it. I'll be submitting that proposal to my agent in the next couple of days. I hope she'll be as excited about the story as I am. Wish me luck.
Step one in broadening my horizons.
Is there something new you've been wanting to try? Something that will push your limits? Broaden your horizons? Something that seems almost impossible?
Part of what's driving me is knowing that I'm working toward breaking into a new genre--Fantasy Mystery. THE EXTRAORDINARY QUEST OF ZOE ALBRIGHT (which I plan to Indie publish) is already a work-in-progress. Meanwhile my goal is to also sell a fantasy mystery project to a NYC traditional publisher. I spent the last three days heavily revising a proposal I started a while back for a fantasy mystery that takes place in the 1920s. I'm working new muscles big time. It's a challenge and it's a joy. I *think* I finally nailed it. I'll be submitting that proposal to my agent in the next couple of days. I hope she'll be as excited about the story as I am. Wish me luck.
Step one in broadening my horizons.
Is there something new you've been wanting to try? Something that will push your limits? Broaden your horizons? Something that seems almost impossible?
July 21, 2015
Looking Ahead!
I'm not sure if it's a blessing or a curse, but I am constantly bombarded with story ideas. Unfortunately, I'm not the world's fastest writer so it's impossible for me to keep up with my crazy muse. I'm easily distracted by shiny new ideas. Sometimes I give into them. Not a bad thing. Viva variety! But it does put a kink into the schedule of whatever "series" I'm trying to focus on.
I've spent the last few weeks thinking hard about my career. Where I am. Where I'd like to go. One thing I know for sure. I'm going to focus more on what inspires me creatively. What truly sparks my passion. And I'm going to worry less about "breaking out and ahead" financially. I'm going to reconnect with the crazy kind of passion that makes my storytelling unique. I'm going to have FUN.
My new goal is to complete my two Indie romance series (Peacemakers: Old West AND Impossible Dream) by mid 2016. Peacemakers: Old West will consist of four books total. Impossible Dream will consist of five. Then I'll be turning my full attention and creativity to a story that has been in the works for some time. A story of my heart that received a lot of interest from the big NYC pubs, but was ultimately passed over because A) They didn't know how to market it or B) (in one very close but no cigar instance) was a little to close in concept to something that pub had already bought.
This particular story revolves around "The Extraordinary Quest of Zoe Albright". It's a fantasy mystery with romantic elements. Sort of like 'The Discovery of Witches"... but not really. All I know is I adore what I've written so far and honestly think Zoe is me at my very best.
In keeping with that Indie project, I'm working on polishing another fantasy mystery proposal for my agent to pitch to the traditional NYC publishers. I'd be ever so thrilled to remain a hybrid author albeit in a new genre. A slight shift from straight ahead romance and perhaps a risky move on my part but it feels right. So.... I'm going for it.
Based on all of the above here's what you can expect from me in the near and not so near future! (*not including a special project I'm simmering on with an extremely talented artist!)
MARRY POPPINS (Impossible Dream--book 3) Sept/Oct 2015ON THE NAUGHTY LIST (holiday anthology w/Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, and Sugar Jamison) Oct 2015WANDERLUST (romance anthology w/Erin McCarthy, Kathy Love and Elle J Rossi) Nov 2015CHRISTMAS IMPOSSIBLE (Impossible Dream--book 4) Oct/Nov 2015LOVING A LEGEND (Peacemakers:Old West--book 4) Feb 2016NO PLACE LIKE NOWHERE (Impossible Dream--book 5) July 2016ZOE ALBRIGHT: THE ASSASSIN'S PRODIGY (An ESCA Novel) Oct 2016
Unless something totally unexpected puts a glitch in my oh-so-focused plan. ;)
Speaking of MARRY POPPINS, I'll leave you with this beautiful ad designed by my awesoemlly talented sister--Elle J Rossi of EJR Digital Art
I've spent the last few weeks thinking hard about my career. Where I am. Where I'd like to go. One thing I know for sure. I'm going to focus more on what inspires me creatively. What truly sparks my passion. And I'm going to worry less about "breaking out and ahead" financially. I'm going to reconnect with the crazy kind of passion that makes my storytelling unique. I'm going to have FUN.
My new goal is to complete my two Indie romance series (Peacemakers: Old West AND Impossible Dream) by mid 2016. Peacemakers: Old West will consist of four books total. Impossible Dream will consist of five. Then I'll be turning my full attention and creativity to a story that has been in the works for some time. A story of my heart that received a lot of interest from the big NYC pubs, but was ultimately passed over because A) They didn't know how to market it or B) (in one very close but no cigar instance) was a little to close in concept to something that pub had already bought.
This particular story revolves around "The Extraordinary Quest of Zoe Albright". It's a fantasy mystery with romantic elements. Sort of like 'The Discovery of Witches"... but not really. All I know is I adore what I've written so far and honestly think Zoe is me at my very best.
In keeping with that Indie project, I'm working on polishing another fantasy mystery proposal for my agent to pitch to the traditional NYC publishers. I'd be ever so thrilled to remain a hybrid author albeit in a new genre. A slight shift from straight ahead romance and perhaps a risky move on my part but it feels right. So.... I'm going for it.
Based on all of the above here's what you can expect from me in the near and not so near future! (*not including a special project I'm simmering on with an extremely talented artist!)
MARRY POPPINS (Impossible Dream--book 3) Sept/Oct 2015ON THE NAUGHTY LIST (holiday anthology w/Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, and Sugar Jamison) Oct 2015WANDERLUST (romance anthology w/Erin McCarthy, Kathy Love and Elle J Rossi) Nov 2015CHRISTMAS IMPOSSIBLE (Impossible Dream--book 4) Oct/Nov 2015LOVING A LEGEND (Peacemakers:Old West--book 4) Feb 2016NO PLACE LIKE NOWHERE (Impossible Dream--book 5) July 2016ZOE ALBRIGHT: THE ASSASSIN'S PRODIGY (An ESCA Novel) Oct 2016
Unless something totally unexpected puts a glitch in my oh-so-focused plan. ;)
Speaking of MARRY POPPINS, I'll leave you with this beautiful ad designed by my awesoemlly talented sister--Elle J Rossi of EJR Digital Art
July 19, 2015
Revitalization and Risk
Bear with me through the set-up. I swear this is not solely a promo shout. It's a promo shout leading up to a peek into how my mind works and ending with a question for you!
If you've been following me on Facebook or Twitter or even here (for the last couple of days), you know that I'm celebrating the reissues of my historical western series: Peacemakers: Old West. LASSO THE MOON , the first adventure in the series is on sale now for .99. Digital version only and only until July 24. If you haven't taken advantage, do so soon!
Book 2 and 3-- ROMANCING THE WEST and FALL OF ROME are also available in digital for bargain prices. If you prefer a good ole book in your hands, they're available in print as well.
Gifting these tales with new covers (thank you EJR Digital Art ), tweaked editing, and a sale with a two-week ad campaign allowed me an opportunity to garner new readers. Revitalizing these stories also revitalized my love of the Garrett family and assorted associates as well as the wild, wild, west. I had forgotten how much research and intrigue I'd weaved into these books--along with a lot of heart and humor. I very much enjoyed reconnecting with that part of myself and my writing. This revitalization of the series left me inspired!
Avid fans of the Peacemakers have been asking for Boston Garrett's story for a very long time and, after being waylaid for several professional reasons, I'm finally in a position (and frame-of-mind) to deliver the goods. Although I have multiple projects on my plate right now I am indeed simmering on Boston's adventure--working title: LOVING A LEGEND. Slated for release in early 2016.
You may have noticed that in this post's title I used the word RISK. And here's where that aspect comes in. The first three Peacemaker tales are straight-up historical western romances. I am inspired to approach LOVING A LEGEND in a slightly different way. The inspiration came from various directions.
A 2014 trip to Arizona which included a visit to Jerome. This artsy, unique town is situated on the side of a mountain and has a stunning history. I knew at some point I would write a story that took place in Jerome and it would entail a ghostly or paranormal aspect.
A while back I ran a post on Facebook about two television series. FIREFLY and THE ADVENTURES OF BRISCOE COUNTY, JR. I was thrilled to learn I'm not the only rabid fan of these shows. Both of these series were cult hits and both combined wild west and sci-fi/fantasy aspects. They were also sexy, romantic, and peppered with wit and humor. Everything I love.
This past year I fell in love with the cable series (book) OUTLANDER and rediscovered my love of a classic tale by Jude Deveraux-- A KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR . Two words: Time Travel
All this "inspiration" swirled and settled around LOVING A LEGEND as well as a spin-off series--Peacemakers: New Breed. There's a key scene in FALL OF ROME where Rome tells his younger brother Boston, "Get your own damned life." When that story ends, in my head I knew Boston would head off in search of that life. I also knew he would have a hard time finding it. As a past government agent, current Peacemaker, and a popular dime novel hero, he's pretty much seen and done it all. What and who could shake this man's world?
One morning not so long ago, I had an epiphany. It involved dropping a twenty-first century woman into Boston's nineteenth-century world. I can see it and even better I can feel it. Here's where RISK comes into play. The preceding linked books are straight up historicals. Will fans of the standing series be intrigued or turned off by a paranormal twist to Boston's tale? And will they follow the Peacemakers into a new world--a spin-off series inspired by my imagination and the cult series mentioned above?
Would you?
If you've been following me on Facebook or Twitter or even here (for the last couple of days), you know that I'm celebrating the reissues of my historical western series: Peacemakers: Old West. LASSO THE MOON , the first adventure in the series is on sale now for .99. Digital version only and only until July 24. If you haven't taken advantage, do so soon!
Book 2 and 3-- ROMANCING THE WEST and FALL OF ROME are also available in digital for bargain prices. If you prefer a good ole book in your hands, they're available in print as well.
Gifting these tales with new covers (thank you EJR Digital Art ), tweaked editing, and a sale with a two-week ad campaign allowed me an opportunity to garner new readers. Revitalizing these stories also revitalized my love of the Garrett family and assorted associates as well as the wild, wild, west. I had forgotten how much research and intrigue I'd weaved into these books--along with a lot of heart and humor. I very much enjoyed reconnecting with that part of myself and my writing. This revitalization of the series left me inspired!
Avid fans of the Peacemakers have been asking for Boston Garrett's story for a very long time and, after being waylaid for several professional reasons, I'm finally in a position (and frame-of-mind) to deliver the goods. Although I have multiple projects on my plate right now I am indeed simmering on Boston's adventure--working title: LOVING A LEGEND. Slated for release in early 2016.
You may have noticed that in this post's title I used the word RISK. And here's where that aspect comes in. The first three Peacemaker tales are straight-up historical western romances. I am inspired to approach LOVING A LEGEND in a slightly different way. The inspiration came from various directions.
A 2014 trip to Arizona which included a visit to Jerome. This artsy, unique town is situated on the side of a mountain and has a stunning history. I knew at some point I would write a story that took place in Jerome and it would entail a ghostly or paranormal aspect.
A while back I ran a post on Facebook about two television series. FIREFLY and THE ADVENTURES OF BRISCOE COUNTY, JR. I was thrilled to learn I'm not the only rabid fan of these shows. Both of these series were cult hits and both combined wild west and sci-fi/fantasy aspects. They were also sexy, romantic, and peppered with wit and humor. Everything I love.
This past year I fell in love with the cable series (book) OUTLANDER and rediscovered my love of a classic tale by Jude Deveraux-- A KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR . Two words: Time Travel
All this "inspiration" swirled and settled around LOVING A LEGEND as well as a spin-off series--Peacemakers: New Breed. There's a key scene in FALL OF ROME where Rome tells his younger brother Boston, "Get your own damned life." When that story ends, in my head I knew Boston would head off in search of that life. I also knew he would have a hard time finding it. As a past government agent, current Peacemaker, and a popular dime novel hero, he's pretty much seen and done it all. What and who could shake this man's world?
One morning not so long ago, I had an epiphany. It involved dropping a twenty-first century woman into Boston's nineteenth-century world. I can see it and even better I can feel it. Here's where RISK comes into play. The preceding linked books are straight up historicals. Will fans of the standing series be intrigued or turned off by a paranormal twist to Boston's tale? And will they follow the Peacemakers into a new world--a spin-off series inspired by my imagination and the cult series mentioned above?
Would you?
July 18, 2015
Dream More
A book caught my eye. Actually, the copy on the back of the book caught my eye.
If I have a wish for you, it is that you:Dream moreLearn moreCare moreBe more
Love,Dolly
It's a small book meant to inspire and motivate and it's written by Dolly Parton. I've always loved Dolly. She's bigger than life with her big hair, bold makeup, and glitzy wardrobe. She's charismatic, down-to-earth, and incredibly talented. A singer and songwriter. An actress and founder of Dollywood and the Dollywood Foundation for the Imaginary Library. She's also, I learned after speed reading the preface of this book, a gifted writer with some valuable insight and advice. I only just started DREAM MORE--Celebrate the Dreamer in You and I am already charmed and inspired. Happening on this little gem at this particular time in my life was a blessing.
"Dreams took me from a shack at the foothills of great Smokey Mountains to Nashville and then to Hollywood. And then around the world, like Cinderella and the Fairy godmother all combined, in glitter, high heels and hair."
I've always been a dreamer myself. Sometimes I have to remind myself that dreaming big (and working hard) got me to where I am today. I have to remind myself of all the wonderful things I've accomplished and all the accolades I've enjoyed. This is one of those times. I've fallen short of a few of my expectations and instead of learning from the experience and dreaming beyond, I've been spinning my wheels in a mud-pit of self-doubt.
"I thank God for my failures. Maybe not at the time, but after some reflection. I never feel like a failure just because I tried something and failed. to me, the secret is all in how you approach things.Attitude, it's all in the attitude. Just because you fail, don't mean you have to lose. But if you want to win, then here's the simple truth. You have to change your attitude."
This passage and many more resonate deeply with me. As does Dolly's genuine "voice". I look forward to reading more of this book and I'm pretty sure I'll be sharing more of my thoughts based on Dolly's insight.
What about you? Are you dreaming big?
If I have a wish for you, it is that you:Dream moreLearn moreCare moreBe more
Love,Dolly
It's a small book meant to inspire and motivate and it's written by Dolly Parton. I've always loved Dolly. She's bigger than life with her big hair, bold makeup, and glitzy wardrobe. She's charismatic, down-to-earth, and incredibly talented. A singer and songwriter. An actress and founder of Dollywood and the Dollywood Foundation for the Imaginary Library. She's also, I learned after speed reading the preface of this book, a gifted writer with some valuable insight and advice. I only just started DREAM MORE--Celebrate the Dreamer in You and I am already charmed and inspired. Happening on this little gem at this particular time in my life was a blessing.
"Dreams took me from a shack at the foothills of great Smokey Mountains to Nashville and then to Hollywood. And then around the world, like Cinderella and the Fairy godmother all combined, in glitter, high heels and hair."
I've always been a dreamer myself. Sometimes I have to remind myself that dreaming big (and working hard) got me to where I am today. I have to remind myself of all the wonderful things I've accomplished and all the accolades I've enjoyed. This is one of those times. I've fallen short of a few of my expectations and instead of learning from the experience and dreaming beyond, I've been spinning my wheels in a mud-pit of self-doubt.
"I thank God for my failures. Maybe not at the time, but after some reflection. I never feel like a failure just because I tried something and failed. to me, the secret is all in how you approach things.Attitude, it's all in the attitude. Just because you fail, don't mean you have to lose. But if you want to win, then here's the simple truth. You have to change your attitude."
This passage and many more resonate deeply with me. As does Dolly's genuine "voice". I look forward to reading more of this book and I'm pretty sure I'll be sharing more of my thoughts based on Dolly's insight.
What about you? Are you dreaming big?
July 17, 2015
National Cowboy Day
Yeah. You saw that right. There is an actual day dedicated to celebrating cowboys. Yee-haw! I'm there. I'll also be at an FB Party that day--July 25. You want to be there too. Trust me. Lots of authors, lots of giveaways, and lots of pictures of sexy cowboys. Here's the deal...
A Celebration of all things Cowboy! Join OVER FORTY WESTERN AUTHORS for a full day of cowboy fun. We will be offering a grand prize gift certificate to BOOT BARN as well as individual giveaways from each participating author. Hop over (click on) to the event page for a full list of participating authors join and mark your calendar. I’ll be there with bells, um, boots on!
A Celebration of all things Cowboy! Join OVER FORTY WESTERN AUTHORS for a full day of cowboy fun. We will be offering a grand prize gift certificate to BOOT BARN as well as individual giveaways from each participating author. Hop over (click on) to the event page for a full list of participating authors join and mark your calendar. I’ll be there with bells, um, boots on!
July 16, 2015
Renovating and Revitalizing
Blogging. Bloggers. Blah, blah, blog!
There was a time when blogging was all the rage. Then, like a lot of things, blogging fell out of fashion. People who used to haunt blogs turned to social media--Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram. I'm one of those people. Sucked in big time (almost exclusively) by Facebook. I'm there a lot. As in every day. I don't envision abandoning that venue any time soon. So if you want a guaranteed daily dose of me be sure to LIKE me @ https://www.facebook.com/BethCiottaBooks
Moving on...
Recently I've been offered a couple of promotional opportunities that involve me posting and linking from my blog. BLOG? Yeah. I have one of those but it's, um, two years out of date. So I spent an evening blowing off the dust and renovating this site. Giving it a new look. I've made baby steps. Hence the "Coming Soon" reference on the various pages. Please bear with me as the overall renovation will take some time.
As to revitalizing...
That will take time also. Time for me to get back into the swing of writing frequent posts. Time to rebuild an audience.
Speaking of....
In hopes of building a bigger audience for my historical westerns, I'm running a sale on the e-book (digital) version of LASSO THE MOON, the first book in the series: Peacemakers: Old West. For a limited time only, this romantic adventure can be your for 0.99! Grab your copy now!
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Kobo
There was a time when blogging was all the rage. Then, like a lot of things, blogging fell out of fashion. People who used to haunt blogs turned to social media--Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram. I'm one of those people. Sucked in big time (almost exclusively) by Facebook. I'm there a lot. As in every day. I don't envision abandoning that venue any time soon. So if you want a guaranteed daily dose of me be sure to LIKE me @ https://www.facebook.com/BethCiottaBooks
Moving on...
Recently I've been offered a couple of promotional opportunities that involve me posting and linking from my blog. BLOG? Yeah. I have one of those but it's, um, two years out of date. So I spent an evening blowing off the dust and renovating this site. Giving it a new look. I've made baby steps. Hence the "Coming Soon" reference on the various pages. Please bear with me as the overall renovation will take some time.
As to revitalizing...
That will take time also. Time for me to get back into the swing of writing frequent posts. Time to rebuild an audience.
Speaking of....
In hopes of building a bigger audience for my historical westerns, I'm running a sale on the e-book (digital) version of LASSO THE MOON, the first book in the series: Peacemakers: Old West. For a limited time only, this romantic adventure can be your for 0.99! Grab your copy now!
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Kobo
July 14, 2015
WIP
WIP. Work in Progress.
Typically that term pertains to my stories. But in this case it pertains to this blog. Bear with me during this major makeover and resurrection. Yes, resurrection. The bloggeth returneth. Soon!
Typically that term pertains to my stories. But in this case it pertains to this blog. Bear with me during this major makeover and resurrection. Yes, resurrection. The bloggeth returneth. Soon!
April 12, 2015
New Release! OBSESSED (A Starstruck Novella)
My poor, poor blog. So neglected. I'll have to do something about that... at some point. Meanwhile it's still the perfect place for me to share big news. And the big news of the moment is the official release for my latest creation--
OBSESSED
(a starstruck novella).
Obsessed is the launch novella in a new continuity series with fab authors (and friends) Cynthia Valero and Elle J Rossi . Three authors, one world! OBSESSED launches April 13. Look for WRECKED one week after that and JADED the week after that!
Below is a list of blogs participating in the Release Day Blast for OBSESSED . Hop over to any one of those book blogs for more information on this sexy novella with heart. You can also enter to win a shooting star necklace! Below that list is the list of blogs participating in my virtual book tour. Those feature excerpts, a book trailer, and also the contest for the necklace.
Indulge and enjoy!
~~ Beth
Participating HostsApril 13th, 2015
A Tasty Read Book Reviews
Book Liaison
Craves the AngstRomancing the Readers Renee Entress's BlogJen's Reading ObsessionBlogger NicoleMy Favorite ThingsPassionate EncountersThose Crazy Book ChicksBooks Need TLC
Born to Read Books
Kimberly Lewis Blog
Toots Book Reviews
What the Cat Read
Room with Books
Books N Pearls
Literary Treasure Chest
The Book Review
Addicted to Romance
Babs Book Bistro
Carole's Random Life
Mignon Mykel Reviews
Bookhooked
I Heart YA Books
Lush Book Review
Amazing Reading Experience
Dreams Come True Through Reading
Forever Reading Book Blog
Marebare's Book Shelf
Rabid Reads
The Sassy Bookster
The Booksnake Etc.
Abibliophobia Anonymous Book Reviews Blog
Sultry, Steamy Reading
Books over Bros
Adventures in Bookland
Book Stop Corner
The Avid Book Collecter
JB's Book Obsession
BB's Book Reviews & Promotions
Channelling Colee
A Hopeless Reader Forever
Sanaa's Book Blog
Free Bookster
Wicked Bitches Blog Review
Books by Night, Mommy by DayUnderneath the Covers
Illustrious Illusions
Mikky's World of Books
Tour Schedule
April 13th- Written Love Reviews- P/ExcApril 14th- Sarah's Storylines- P/Exc
(Stop 2) Lush Book Reviews- P/ExcApril 15th- The Sassy Bookster- Rev/PApril 16th- Erotic Romance News- P/Exc
April 17th- Books-n-Kisses- Rev/Exc
April 20th- Jen's Reading Obsession- Rev/P
(Stop 2) Wicked Reads- Rev/ExcApril 21st- I am, Indeed- Rev/Exc
(Stop 2) Wicked Babes Book Reviews- P/ExcApril 22nd- Romancing the Readers- Rev/PApril 23rd- Those Crazy Book Chicks- P/Rev/Exc
(Stop 2) A Tasty Read Book Reviews- Rev/P
April 24th- Books and Spoons Blog- P/Exc
(Stop 2) The Many Faces of Romance- P/Rev
Obsessed is the launch novella in a new continuity series with fab authors (and friends) Cynthia Valero and Elle J Rossi . Three authors, one world! OBSESSED launches April 13. Look for WRECKED one week after that and JADED the week after that!
Below is a list of blogs participating in the Release Day Blast for OBSESSED . Hop over to any one of those book blogs for more information on this sexy novella with heart. You can also enter to win a shooting star necklace! Below that list is the list of blogs participating in my virtual book tour. Those feature excerpts, a book trailer, and also the contest for the necklace.
Indulge and enjoy!
~~ Beth
Participating HostsApril 13th, 2015
A Tasty Read Book Reviews
Book Liaison
Craves the AngstRomancing the Readers Renee Entress's BlogJen's Reading ObsessionBlogger NicoleMy Favorite ThingsPassionate EncountersThose Crazy Book ChicksBooks Need TLC
Born to Read Books
Kimberly Lewis Blog
Toots Book Reviews
What the Cat Read
Room with Books
Books N Pearls
Literary Treasure Chest
The Book Review
Addicted to Romance
Babs Book Bistro
Carole's Random Life
Mignon Mykel Reviews
Bookhooked
I Heart YA Books
Lush Book Review
Amazing Reading Experience
Dreams Come True Through Reading
Forever Reading Book Blog
Marebare's Book Shelf
Rabid Reads
The Sassy Bookster
The Booksnake Etc.
Abibliophobia Anonymous Book Reviews Blog
Sultry, Steamy Reading
Books over Bros
Adventures in Bookland
Book Stop Corner
The Avid Book Collecter
JB's Book Obsession
BB's Book Reviews & Promotions
Channelling Colee
A Hopeless Reader Forever
Sanaa's Book Blog
Free Bookster
Wicked Bitches Blog Review
Books by Night, Mommy by DayUnderneath the Covers
Illustrious Illusions
Mikky's World of Books
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Tour Schedule
April 13th- Written Love Reviews- P/ExcApril 14th- Sarah's Storylines- P/Exc
(Stop 2) Lush Book Reviews- P/ExcApril 15th- The Sassy Bookster- Rev/PApril 16th- Erotic Romance News- P/Exc
April 17th- Books-n-Kisses- Rev/Exc
April 20th- Jen's Reading Obsession- Rev/P
(Stop 2) Wicked Reads- Rev/ExcApril 21st- I am, Indeed- Rev/Exc
(Stop 2) Wicked Babes Book Reviews- P/ExcApril 22nd- Romancing the Readers- Rev/PApril 23rd- Those Crazy Book Chicks- P/Rev/Exc
(Stop 2) A Tasty Read Book Reviews- Rev/P
April 24th- Books and Spoons Blog- P/Exc
(Stop 2) The Many Faces of Romance- P/Rev
