Linda Joyce's Blog, page 12

And the Winner Is… YOU

Do you see yourself as a winner? Do you feel energized and engaged in your daily adventure? What gets you out of bed each morning? Does it bring you joy? How do you become the Star in the movie of your life?

Do I have all the answers to these questions? No. However, like my GPS, I am going to share with you some ways to “recalculate” and bring new direction and joy into your life.

Here’s what triggered my need for self-examination.

I’m not a crier. At least not in public. Yet recently I wept. Yes, openly for all to see, the kind of crying that ruins makeup and produces red splotches on my face. Most unattractive, but what could I do? There was no holding back.

Last Thursday at the Romance Writers of America Luncheon, author Cathy Maxwell’s keynote speech made me sniffle, then tears dribble from the corners of my eyes. She shared the story of her writing journey, including her first conference where she brought bread and peanut butter to keep food expenses low.

That folks is true dedication to learning craft and pursuing competence. Cathy invoked the battle cry, “Don’t give up!”

I wondered how she knew about the growing voice of my self-doubt. I cried because she passionately challenged me to believe in myself. Even now, it brings tears to my eyes seeing her at the podium raising her fist in solidarity. Thank you, Cathy, for your inspiring words.

On Friday, Kristan Higgins took the stage as the featured speaker during the Awards Luncheon. She started out very funny. But then she spoke of the power of words. Kristan read letters from her readers, dark stories of painful lives–abuse, death, despair–made brighter by reading her books. I know the pain of some of those readers…and that is a story for a different post.

I contemplated what I would write about this week, especially in the wake of hearing the journeys of such accomplished writers. How would I squelch my self-doubt? Could I push the darkness away and join Cathy’s Maxwell’s charge? How could I learn more about writing so that I might, someday, touch people’s lives as Kristan Higgins has?

Embracing my fears and flaws, I am recalculating my path, seeking joy and self-acceptance.

You don’t have to be a writer to embrace triumph in your life.

Here’s what I believe is important ~

Passion. Yes, I am a romance writer, but I’m not referring to ardent affection, instead I mean the intense driving feelings that urge us onward in life. I am passionate about writing. Nothing brings me greater joy that to bring a story to life on paper. Passion can inspire great courage and provide us with a vision of what we can be.

Focus. Directed attention to accomplish goals. This follows the Law of Attraction- what we bring focus to, we can manifest in our life.

Learning. Develop the knowledge needed to reach your goals. Continue to grow as a person.

Perseverance. Continued efforts that merge your passion, focus and learning. Never give up.

Integrity. Be honest with yourself and others. Be yourself. Live your principles. Walk your path with perseverance.

I believe in these keys to success for all aspects of my life. There’s nothing wrong with reevaluating where you are in the moment.

I can hear my internal GPS squawking, “Recalculating. Recalculating.”

What about you? Are you living with passion, focus, learning, perseverance and integrity? You can, you know. And the winner of your efforts will be You!

Smiles,

Linda Joyce

http://www.linda-joyce.com

National Attraction!

Welcome to my sunny corner of the south. I’m off to RWA Nationals today.

Before I depart, I want to leave you with a tasty read ~ the Tasty Summer Reads blog hop hosted by Avon Romance.

Here’s how it works. Each author answers five questions about their latest release and current WIP, and posts a delectable recipe pertaining thereto. Then each author invites five more authors to participate and links them all.

Thanks for inviting me to play Juli D. Revezzo

My current book: Bayou Bound is in the final production stage. I don’t have a cover to show you yet, but I promise it’s coming soon.

Author of Santorini Sunset, Claire Croxton said this about Bayou Bound: As if the bayou needed more heat and steam! Step aside Shakespeare. Linda Joyce adds southern charm, and a much happier ending, to this modern day Romeo and Juliet.

Here’s a peek into the journey of Biloxi Dutrey and Nick Trahan.

Photographer Biloxi Dutrey aches from missing home and grounds her jet-setting career to return to Mississippi. She has a plan save Fleur de Lis, the family home, from financial ruin by scooping up the job of Keeper, the one she’s always wanted. Only her family isn’t cooperating.

Veterinarian Nick Trahan is new in town and wants his clients to stop playing matchmaker. He won’t settle for just a pretty face. He wants the perfect woman, one who believes deeply in family and lifetime commitments.

Nick rescues Biloxi during a storm, but it’s tame compared to the tempest between them. Soon they experience the backlash of the long-standing clash between their families. If Biloxi surrenders her dream to be Fleur de Lis’ Keeper and tows the line with tradition, will she also be forced give up on a ‘forever love’ with Nick over hate their families still harbor for each other?

For a look at the cover of Bayou Born, book one in the Fleur de Lis series, Please scroll down to see it.

Here’s insights into me ~

1) When writing are you a snacker? If so, sweet or salty?

Snacking! It hits me about 3 pm most days. Crunchy is what I love. Dark chocolate with nuts. Potato chips. Cheese curls. Popcorn. Salty or sweet, matters not. My requirement is crunch.

2) Are you an outliner or someone who flies by the seat of their pants? Are they real pants or jammies?

Hmmm, just as I’m bicultural, Asian-Cajun, I’m also a writing plotter and pants-er. I know my characters. I know their crisis, conflict, and concerns. I know how the story ends. BUT, in between…my characters drive the show, which I think causes me to rewrite more. (I hope to refine that process and to include more humor into my stories.) Pants or Jammies? It’s summer in the south, I’m wearing shorts.

3) When cooking or baking, do you follow the recipe exactly or wing it?

I do not bake. I repeat, I do not bake. It requires precision measurements to make things rise, or make crusts flakey, or have the right about of crunch verses chewy. Lucky for me, my husband does a bit of baking. He is famous for his sweet potato pecan pie. I cook. (I was much better than I am now- use or lose it…and I’m losing it.) I enjoy cooking. I make big batches of things like gumbo or pesto and freeze them for easy reheats.

4) What is next for you after this book?

I am working on two projects. I’m writing book three of the Fleur de Lis series-Back to the Bayou. It’s about Branna’s sister, Camilla (Branna is book one, and Camilla makes an appearance late in that book) who struggles to redeem herself and is trying to get home to Fleur de Lis.

I’m also working on a story about three women, once childhood best friends, their friend forged by a secret. They grew apart after high school, and then are reunited when a pivotal man in their lives dies. Jane, Suzanne and Maggie come together as the ex-wife, sister, and widow of Mark Maucele. Only now, when they need each other the most, the secrets the hide from each other threatens to their friendship apart forever.

5) Last Question…on a level of one being slightly naughty to ten being whoo whoo steamy, where does your book land?

This is always a hard question for me because I think the determination ultimate rests with the reader. I have a friend who thinks the intimate scenes in my stories are really hot, but then, she doesn’t read erotica…so trying to be objective, on a 1-10 scale, I’d say my stories are a 6, maybe 7 in the heat scale.

Now for some bayou heat!

Photo taken from Cooking with Elise

This is my Shrimp and Andouille Jambalaya

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 lb andouille sausage, cut into 1/4 inch slices

1 onion, chopped

2 celery ribs, chopped

1 small green bell pepper, diced

1 small red bell pepper, diced

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 1/2 cups rice

1 (14 ounce) can tomatoes, chopped,with liquid.

2 cups broth – vegetable or seafood

8 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

3 green onions, finely chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large pan or Dutch oven, add andouille, onion, celery, bell peppers, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir until onions are tender, about 5 minutes.

Add rice, tomatoes with juice, and broth; bring to a boil.

Place rice mixture in a greased baking dish; cover (foil works) and bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes, until rice is done.

Stir in shrimp, parsley, and green onions; cover again. Cook 5-8 minutes more until shrimp and turn bright pink (cooked through), then serve. Additional Crystal Sauce may be added for more heat.

**If you’re looking for a crock pot recipe, I’m suggesting this one at Food Renegad:

Bayou Born (Fleur de Lis Series)

Randomness…or not? Farewell to Miss Gladys

Linda Joyce Contemplates is the title of my blog. The name is intended to capture my musings of different aspects of life. I am more than a wife. I am more than a daughter. I am more than a writer. As a woman, there is much I contemplate.

Today, I’m looking for patterns in what feels like randomness in order to process the changes rolling in waves into my life.

Miss Gladys’ house restored after Hurricane Katrina. It took five years.

A week ago, my father called to deliver some sad news. He said, “I’m sorry to tell you this, but Miss Gladys’ granddaughter just called. Miss Gladys passed away on Sunday.” He proceeded to provide Keandra’s address and phone number. She’s Miss Gladys’ granddaughter.

This morning, I put a condolence card in the mail to Keanda and her family. She and I have never met; however, I know much about her. You see, my grandmother and Miss Gladys, despite their 20-plus age difference (and a host of other differences that include race, religion and political preferences) were best friends. One house separated them on Wingate Drive in New Orleans. These two women talked about everything, including the life and times of their grandchildren. Therefore, I’m sure Keanda knows as much about me as I know about her.

My father told me that Miss Gladys must have risen on Sunday morning and ate a bite, a few dishes were found neatly stacked in the sink. She went back to bed to read her Bible.

Several people called that day, but she never answered the phone. Her cousin, the one who lives across Filmore and down a few blocks, went to check on her. Miss Gladys was found in her bed, on her side, with her Bible open looking peaceful, as though asleep.

Did she have a pact with God, and this was the time they’d planned?

Miss Gladys celebrated her birthday in February, snuggled between Fat Tuesday and Valentine’s Day, and I was there to commemorate the occasion. The timing worked out perfectly when I was home visiting for Mardi Gras.

I brought a gift to Miss Gladys. A Japanese doll. I had made it when I was ten and living in Japan. I sent it to my grandmother and the doll resided in a prominent place in the living room curio cabinet. The doll came back to me when my grandmother passed away. It seemed only right to return it to New Orleans, on the same street, a door away from where it had lived for so many years.

My husband and I took Miss Gladys for a birthday lunch at the place she selected—Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in Tremè.

At eighty, she dressed in grey slacks and a red leather jacket, always the stylish one, whereas my grandmother used to dress like bag lady, after working for twenty years on New Orleans Police force she lived in constant fear of being mugged. Miss Gladys was the optimist to my grandmother’s constant pessimism.

After a lunch of fried chicken, greens, and macaroni and cheese at Dooky Chase, we headed over to Magazine Street to Sucrè for dessert. Rich and decadent sweetness. Afterward, we walked down the street to Fleurty Girl so I could buy some bling and SWAG for my then, upcoming debut novel release.

It was a perfect day!

I know Miss Gladys had a deep abiding faith. I’m happy she’s gone on to streets of gold and angels singing…but I shall miss her dearly.

In general, I don’t believe in coincidence. I do believe that there are lessons to be learned at every turn in life. I’m contemplating that concept while allowing my tears of grief to flow.

Me and Miss Gladys.

It’s summer now, a time for making memories. I hope you’ll make happy ones, like the ones I made on the last day I spent with Miss Gladys.

Smiles,

Linda Joyce

http://www.linda-joyce.com

Anytime is Party Time

Anytime is Party Time, especially in Louisiana.

My short story, Behind the Mask, features Mardi Gras and pirates and a love. The story is in the July edition of Hidden Desires Romance, a sixty-page magazine with short stories, poetry, and articles about beauty, pets, and lifestyle. There’s also an advice column, Ask Aphrodite. The best news? The magazine is free and only a click away: Hidden Desires Romance

The mask in the photo hangs on the wall in my office. It’s one of my favorites.

One of the most frequent questions I’m asked about writing is, “Where do you get your ideas?” I enjoyed writing Behind the Mask, and I won’t keep you guessing about the inspiration for the story. It’s set in the imaginary town of Ascension on the banks of the Mississippi River in Ascension Parrish, Louisiana. Nearby is the actual town of Donaldsonville where a pirate ship remains sunk in the river.

(photo credit- Harfang)

Taken from ProjectNOLA.com : http://www.projectnola.com/the-news/news/42-fox-8/126767-sunken-french-replica-warship-occasionally-visible

(Information from: The Advocate Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.)

Le Pelican was a full-sized wooden reproduction of a 1697 warship commanded by Pierre le Moyne, Sieur d’Iberville, on Hudson Bay in Canada.

The city bought the replica in May 2002 with $55,000 from the Donaldsonville-based Fort Butler Foundation. It sank that November and again in March 2004.

Several years ago while still living in Kansas, my husband surprised me with a trip for Valentine’s Day–plane tickets to Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans, then a short drive west to Bittersweet Plantation for a long relaxing weekend. Some of you may be familiar with the renowned Chef John Folse, but did you know he owns Bittersweet Plantation, a bed and breakfast that caters to guests’ every whim?

How do you get there? The map gives the best visual.

http://mapq.st/14N8rPK

We wandered around town during our stay. Inspiration came to me like waves pounding a beach during a storm. I have a shipload of photos that will provide details when I begin the story I’m going to set in Donaldsonville. But I digress. While there, town still buzzed with the news of the sunken ship. I saw framed photos of it at a local gift shop. One picture in particular captured my attention. Early morning mist on the Mississippi River shrouded the water and the ship appeared to rise up from the mist.

Very magical.

So the now-sunken pirate ship, intended as a tourist attraction, became the anchor for my story, along with the laissez les bons temps rouler of Mardi Gras, and of course, the unbreakable connection of true love between Chalise and Chaz.

Happy Reading!

Linda Joyce

www.linda-joyce.com

Naming the Baby: 12 Steps to an Engaging Title

Reblogged from Write Brain Trust:

One of the last things to consider before sending your manuscript to CreateSpace.com, Kindle, or whoever is going to process your self-published work, is to name the baby.

You may have used a working title through the process of research, writing, and editing, but that may not be the best one. If you go through a conventional publisher, someone else will likely take this job.

Read more… 439 more words

Are you like me about titles for your manuscripts, suffering while searching for the Perfect title? Here's some tips from another blog that may help you. I'm going to work on following the suggestions to give one of my manuscripts a long-overdue title.

Smiles,

Linda Joyce
www.linda-joyce.com

Charmed…of course!

“Do you find inspiration for your writing when you travel?” a new acquaintance asked me over cocktails at the Rusty Scupper, a restaurant perched on a point in Baltimore’s ‘Charm City’ harbor. He gestured with a flourish and said, “This is a view.”

I paused with a Bloody Mary in hand (you know it’s my favorite adult beverage), and gazed across the water. A lime-green dragon curled around the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not entrance snorted steam, water taxis with blue awnings crisscrossed rippling water, and sunlight glinted off the abstract architecture of the National Aquarium. A pirate gallon circled the harbor with cannons squirting water at passing sailboats. Lightship Chesapeake, a two-mast ship moored to Pier 3 rocked gently, and nearby, the gun-metal grey USS Torsk submarine attracted tourist, both ships part of the Baltimore Maritime Museum.

“Yes, it’s quite a view…but I’m most interested in people.”

It’s been written in many articles that Charleston, SC is ‘The Most Polite City’ in the United States. While I adore Charleston, Baltimore is truly the ‘Charm City.’ Polite, cheerful, and helpful.

And characters everywhere.

A wiry first mate with long, stringy white hair and leathery skin shouted orders at boarding water-taxi travelers. Dressed in a dingy white knit shirt, faded blue jeans and bright red Keds, he paced on the dock. (Think Richard O’Brien as Riff Raff in The Rocky Horror Picture Show.) A French-speaking man asked, “Where?” The sailor’s response was slow and in broken English. He pointed at the map, then at locations in the harbor. I don’t think he intended to show his frustration, though it rang loud and clear. He repeated information several times, each time slower and more fragmented, until the Frenchman shrugged and gave up.

I picked up fruit at the outdoor market and saw a tall, thin woman dressed in red stilettos, navy blue slacks, white blouse with blue vertical stripes and red stars on the shoulders, sashay down the aisle, hips bumping from side to side provocatively. Her silver hair sprayed into a twist, not a strand out of place. (Her sense of style awed me.) I stepped by her and glanced back. Boney hands grasped the shopping cart. Her skin looked translucent, but the blood-red lipstick shocked me.

A young guy, maybe early twenties, chatted me up in a store. He told me how ‘Baltimore products’ like canned crab soup and the perfect-sized mug made special gifts for friends back home. (No, I didn’t buy any.) Very professional in his black suit, white starched shirt, and skinny orange tie. The dreadlocks didn’t quite seem to fit, yet I was hypnotized by his lyrical voice and waited for him to break into song. Never met a store employee more helpful–ever.

The Asian woman. Petite, (no surprise, right) dark straight hair, thin. Colorful, jersey-print dress and blinged-out sandals. When she addressed a group of Asians gathered around her, apparently on a tour, she said, “Hi! Ya’ll,” in the best southern drawl, and I had to look twice.

Charm City gifted me with wonderful memories and a host of folks who may show up as characters in future stories.

Where are you traveling this summer?

(P.S. The photo was taken by my hubby as the moon was rising.)

Happy Reading,

Linda Joyce

http://www.linda-joyce.com

A Summer Solstice Supper and Book Buffet

Welcome!

My friends and I picked the Summer Solstice to offer you a sumptuous supper and a buffet of books to satisfy your hunger. A good meal and a great book—summer doesn’t get any better than that.

Each author is sharing a favorite dish, and the menu is chock-full of mouthwatering delights. The buffet of books offers a flavor for everyone: Romance of many genres, historical stories, and cocktails made simple. Also, the menu contains the title of one of the author’s books and a web link. I’ve listed ingredients for each dish to tantalize your taste buds.

Click on the link by the author’s name to find the directions for making the dish AND to learn more about the author and their book(s). Keep scrolling down for the eye-candy book covers and some insights about each author. I invite you to visit each author, make a new friend or two, and celebrate the summer with us.

Happy Reading!

Linda Joyce http://www.linda-joyce.com

SUMMER SOLSTICE MENU

Cocktails

Blackberry Gin and Tonic by J.K. O’Hanlon -Three Ingredient Cocktails ~ http://www.thirstyjane.com

Pomegranate Martini by Kathy L Wheeler – Quotable ~ http://kathylwheeler.com

 Appetizer

Japanese Chicken Wings by Jan Morrill -The Red Kimono ~http://theredkimono.com/

Sweet & Sour Hawaiian Meatballs by Vonnie Davis – Rain Is A Love Song ~ http://www.vintagevonnie.blogspot.com

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms by Alicia Dean – Liberty Awakened (Isle of Fangs, Book 1) ~ http://aliciadean.com/alicias-blog/

 Salad

7 Layer Salad by AJ Nuest -  She’s Got Dibs ~ http://ajbooks.blogspot.com/

Mandarin orange & Spinach salad by Barbara Barrett – And He Cooks Too ~ http://barbarabarrettbooks.com/

Entrée

Pesto Chicken by Nancy Parra – Gluten for Punishment ~ http://www.nancyjparra.blogspot.com/

Taquitos by Calisa Rhose – Risk Factors ~ http://calisarhose.com/chit-chat

Linda’s Summer Shrimp Boil by Linda Joyce – Bayou Born ~ http://lindajoycecontemplates.wordpress.com

Oven Fried Peach Chicken by Juli D. Revezzo – The Artist’s Inheritance ~ http://julidrevezzo.com/blog /

Betty’s Nutty Pork Chops by Betty Bolte – Hometown Heroines ~ http://www.bettybolte.com/blog.htm

 Dessert

Kolaches by Gina Hooten Popp – The Storm After ~ https://www.facebook.com/ginahootenpoppauthor

Chocolate-Cherry-Coconut Cupcakes by Luna Zega – Tokyo Tease ~ http://lunazega.wordpress.com/

Fruit Compote by Brenda Sparks – A Midsummer Night’s Demon ~  http://www.brenda-sparks.com/blog.html

After Dinner Drinks

After Dinner Iced Coffee by Sandra Sookoo – Winging It ~ http://sandrasookoo.wordpress.com/

Now for the THE BOOK BUFFET

J.K. O’Hanlon:  Blackberry Gin and Tonic

1 1/2 ounces gin

1/2 ounce lime juice

1/2 ounce blackberry shrub

4 ounces tonic water

Click here for directions: http://www.thirstyjane.com/

Combining her background in law with her unfailing sense of humor, J.K. O’Hanlon writes smart, sassy and sexy stories about women who balance exciting careers with their passionate desire for love. In between penning steamy sex scenes, J.K. mixes and writes about cocktails as The Thirsty Jane

Buy at www.thirstyjane.com.

Kathy L Wheeler: Pomegranate Martini

1 1/2 cups pomegranate juice

2 ounces Absolute Citron vodka or white tequila

1 ounce Cointreau liquor

Cup of ice

Splash of sparkling water (optional)

Squeeze of lemon (optional)

Click here for directions: http://kathylwheeler.com

Kathy L Wheeler is an active member of the Oklahoma Romance Writers, an avid sports fan, theater buff, and traveler. She lives in Edmond, Oklahoma with her multi-talented husband (music & law) and her bossy cat, Carly.

Buy at: http://www.amazon.com/Quotable-The-Bloomington-Series-ebook/dp/B009Z00FOC/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1371765205&sr=1-1&keywords=quotable+by+kathy+l+wheeler

Jan Morrill:  Japanese Chicken Wings

2 lbs chicken wings

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup sake

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (if desired)

1 garlic clove, minced

1 1/2 tsp grated FRESH ginger root

Click here for directions: http://theredkimono.com

Jan Morrill was born and (mostly) raised in California by her Buddhist Japanese American mother and her Southern Baptist redheaded father. Her historical fiction, THE RED KIMONO– as well as many of her short stories–reflect memories of growing up in a multicultural, multi-religious, multi-political environment. She is currently working on the sequel to THE RED KIMONO.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Red-Kimono-A-Novel/dp/1557289948/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364732557&sr=8-1&keywords=the+red+kimono

Vonnie Davis:  Sweet N Sour Hawaiian Meatballs

1 package of frozen, pre-cooked Italian meatballs—approx. 76 per bag

1 large green and red pepper, cut into chunks

1 large onion cut into chunks

1 large can of pineapple chunks

1 bag of baby carrots

1 can of sliced chestnuts

½ C. brown sugar

2 small bottles (8-10 oz.) of Sweet and Sour Sauce

Seasonings: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, Mrs. Dash.

Click here for directions: http://www.vintagevonnie.blogspot.com

Vonnie Davis is a Fairy God-Mother, of sorts, giving her heroes and heroines their well-deserved “happily-ever-after” ending. An award-winning author, she writes most sub-genres of romance. She lives in Virginia with her writer husband and is owned by one very critical tabby cat.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Rain-Love-Song-Vonnie-Davis/dp/1612177654/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1371668042&sr=1-2&keywords=Love+is+a+Rain+Song

 

Alicia Dean:  Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

1/2 pound breakfast sausage

1 8 oz package cream cheese

8 to 10 jumbo mushrooms

Garlic salt, butter

Click here for directions: http://aliciadean.com/alicias-blog/

Alicia Dean lives in Edmond, Oklahoma. She writes paranormal and romantic suspense for several different publishers and is excited to be a launch author for Amazon’s Kindle Worlds with two Vampire Diaries stories and one Gossip Girl story.

Liberty Awakened, Isle of Fangs Book 1

Buy at Amazon  http://www.amazon.com/Liberty-Awakened-Isle-Fangs-ebook/dp/B00B3N6PMA/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

 

AJ Nuest: 7 Layer Salad

1 16 oz. Bottle Fat Free Italian Dressing

3 Chicken Breasts

1/2-3/4 Head Iceberg Lettuce

Dried Dill Weed

2 Bunches Scallions

1 16 oz. Package Green Peas, thawed but not cooked

4 Hard Boiled Eggs

1 16 oz. Package Bacon, fried and crumbled

1 12 oz. Package Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

1 Botttle Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing (or favorite of choice)

Click here for directions: http://ajbooks.blogspot.com/

Award-winning author and editor , AJ Nuest , lives in a small farming community in NW Indiana with her loving husband, two beautiful children and a bevy of spoiled pets. She and the cat are currently vying for dictatorship. The cat is winning.

Buy at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Shes-Got-Dibs-ebook/dp/B00CGLZGP0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370986442&sr=8-1&keywords=She%27s+Got+Dibs

 

Barbara Barrett:  Mandarin Orange and Spinach Salad

1 t. salt

1 t. celery seed

1 t. dry mustard

1 t. paprika

1 t. onion flakes

¼ c. sugar or sugar substitute

½ c. vinegar (I use either white or apple)

1 c. oil (I use canola)

1 large package spinach (2 pkgs. Baby spinach) (Other types of greens may be substituted)

½ package shredded red cabbage

½ c. sliced almonds (more to taste)

1 can mandarin oranges (larger can to taste)

½ c. sliced mushrooms (optional)

¼ c. thinly sliced onion

Click here for directions: www.barbarabarrettbooks.com

Barbara Barrett spent her professional career as a human resources analyst for Iowa state government, and that training has stayed with her in her writing of contemporary romance fiction. Her first two books, The Sleepover Clause, Crimson Romance, and And He Cooks Too, The Wild Rose Press, were published in the past year. A third, Driven to Matrimony, TWRP, should be released by late 2013.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/And-He-Cooks-Too-ebook/dp/B00ADZR0G4/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1371675188&sr=1-1&keywords=And+He+Cooks+by+Barbara+Barrett

Nancy J. Parra:  Pesto Chicken

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

1/2 cup prepared basil pesto, divided

4 thin slices prosciutto, or more if needed

Click here for directions: www.nancyjparra.blogspot.com

Best known for writing “…strong stubborn heroes and plucky heroines who aren’t afraid to go toe to toe with them,” (Shelley Mosley, Booklist Magazine), Nancy J. Parra has eleven books published-two made the top ten list and a total of five were given starred reviews by  ALA’s Booklist. She now brings you cozy mysteries where her protagonist not only solves a murder but finds her place in a small community.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Gluten-Punishment-Bakers-Treat-Mystery/dp/0425252108/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1371174048&sr=1-1&keywords=gluten+for+punishment+by+nancy+j.+parra

Calisa Rhose:  Smothered Taquitos

Package 40 ct. frozen Taquitos

1-16oz. Jar or fresh Salsa (your heat preference)

1 pound- Grated mild Cheddar/Jack cheese (or just Cheddar if preferred)

Chipped jalapeño pepper to taste (fresh or canned-and optional)

Click here for directions: http://calisarhose.com/chit-chat/

Calisa Rhose is always working on projects with her favored contemporary cowboys, first responders  and firemen, as well as, the occasional ‘other’ heroes- and their sexy female counterparts, those sassy, stubborn heroines.

Buy at Amazon: Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Risk-Factors-ebook/dp/B00BNGXQV0/ref=la_B006ROTWH0_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369971302&sr=1-1

 

Linda Joyce: Summer Shrimp Boil for 8

Ingredients

4 quarts of water

1 12oz can of beer

2 lemons, halved, plus wedges for serving

1/2 cup Old Bay Seasoning

8 cloves garlic, smashed

2 large sweet onions, quartered

6 sprigs fresh thyme

1 pound baby red potatoes

4 ears corn, cut in half

4 pounds large shrimp, unpeeled

Hot sauce, for serving (optional- Crystal is my favorite)

Cocktail sauce for dipping shrimp

Directions: Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water. Squeeze the lemon juice into the water and add the squeezed lemon halves. Add the Old Bay, garlic and onion. Tie the thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine and add to the pot. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes.

Add the potatoes to the pot and cook about 10 minutes- almost fork tender. Add the corn and cook 5 more minutes.

Slice each shrimp along the back through the shells. Remove the veins and rinse the shrimp. Add shrimp to pot, cover and cook until the shrimp curl -about 2 to 3 minutes.

Transfer shrimp and vegetables to a platter. (Or at my house, we put down a plastic table cover and spoon the contents of the pot (sans liquid) on the table, then everyone digs in.) Serve with lemon wedges and hot sauce or cocktail, if desired.

Linda Joyce is an award-winning writer and author. Her Louisiana roots run deep, and they’re intertwined with her Japanese heritage. She currently lives in Atlanta in an all-male household with her husband and three dogs: General Beauregard, Gentleman Jack, and Masterpiece Renoir. Linda, a member of Romance Writers of America and Georgia Romance Writers, pens (keyboards, really) romance with contemporary heroines on a journey of self-discovery.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Bayou-Born-Fleur-Lis-ebook/dp/B00B9L1VAC/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1359997756&sr=1-9&keywords=Bayou+Born

 

Juli D. Revezzo: Oven Fried Peach Chicken

Boneless Chicken breasts,

1 can of sliced peaches with juice

salt

pepper

Click here for directions: http://julidrevezzo.com/blog/

Juli D. Revezzo is a Florida girl, with a love of fantasy, science fiction, and Arthurian legend, so much so she gained a B.A. in English and American Literature. She loves writing stories with fantastical elements whether it be a full-on fantasy, or a story set in this world–slightly askew. She recently released her debut novel, The Artist’s Inheritance.

Buy at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Artists-Inheritance-Antique-Magic-ebook/dp/B008XL82IU/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1345040600&sr=1-1

Betty Bolte: Betty’s Nutty Pork Chops

4 Boneless Pork Chops

½ cup pecan halves, finely ground

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ Tablespoon Garlic Powder

½ Tablespoon Italian Seasoning

1 egg

¼ cup milk

Click here for directions: www.bettybolte.com/blog.htm

Betty Bolte: I have always loved the way words empower people, the play of language and intent work together to convey meaning in so many ways. I’ve written and revised Hometown Heroines for young adults, to show today’s youth how their peers from the 1800s excelled and ultimately are remembered with landmarks across our country. I’m also writing romantic historical and supernatural stories and hope to see them published and available soon.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Hometown-Heroines-Stories-Adventure-ebook/dp/B009P4C6DQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1355152529&sr=8-2&keywords=betty+bolte

Gina Hooten Popp:  Kolaches (Czech Pastry)

2 ½ cups warm milk

1 ½ (.24 ounce) packages active dry yeast

½ cup sugar (white)

½ cup shortening

1 tablespoon salt

2 eggs

2 egg yolks

6 ½ cups flour (all-purpose)

½ cup fruit preserves (can be filled with a variety of fillings)

Click here for directions: https://www.facebook.com/ginahootenpoppauthor

A native Texan, Gina Hooten Popp was born in Greenville and now lives in Dallas with her husband and son. In addition to writing fiction professionally, Gina has a background writing advertising for some of the world’s leading brands. Her first novel, The Storm After has been recognized as a finalist in both the Linda Howard Award of Excellence Unpublished Writers Contest and the Writers’ League of Texas Manuscript Contest.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Storm-After-Gina-Hooten-Popp/dp/148193581X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371153548&sr=8-1&keywords=the+storm+after

Luna Zega:  Cherry Chocolate Coconut Cupcakes:

White chocolate chips

Butter

Heavy Whipping Cream

Coconut Extract

Cherry Pie Filling

Buttermilk

Eggs

Flour

Sugar

Cocoa

Baking Soda

Baking Powder

Salt

Mounds bars

Chocolate Chips

Shortening

Maraschino Cherries

Powdered Sugar

Click here for directions: http://lunazega.wordpress.com/

Luna Zega has always been an avid reader and that love naturally led to writing her own tales of woe, romance and sultry summer nights. Over the years, the world in her head has developed into a fascinating place populated with kilt-clad Scottish warriors, lonely and brokenhearted soldiers in need of a little TLC, smoldering Samurai, luscious Latinos and wild, unbridled cowboys. It’s easy to know when Luna has escaped to her little world to play; the grin on her face tells all.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Tokyo-Tease-ebook/dp/B00BSH8WU4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371156801&sr=8-1&keywords=luna+zega

Brenda Sparks:  Faery Fruit Compote

½ cup water

2 tablespoons of Marigold petals

½ cup of sugar

1 teaspoon grated lemon rind

1 ½ cups each of orange, lime, and tangerine slices

2 cups blueberries

Click here for directions: http://www.brenda-sparks.com/blog.html

Born in Virginia, Brenda Sparks now resides in the Sunshine State with her loving husband and son. Balancing her professional commitment to the local school district with her writing is challenging at times, but writing suspenseful paranormal romances is a passion that won’t be denied. Her idea of a perfect day is one spent in front of a computer with a hot cup of coffee, her fingers flying over the keys to send her characters off on their latest adventure.

Buy at Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5NWFM2/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00B5NWFM2&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwbrendaspar-20

Sandra Sookoo:  After Dinner Iced Coffee

1/4 – 1/2 cup coffee grounds (depending on how strong you like your coffee)

2 cups cold water

1 can of sweetened, condensed milk

1/2 and 1/2

Pure vanilla extract

Ice

Click here for directions: http://sandrasookoo.wordpress.com/

Sandra Sookoo is a writer of romantic fiction. Her portfolio includes historical, contemporary, sci-fi, and paranormal romances in full-length books as well as shorts and novellas. No matter if the heat level is spicy or sweet, she loves to blend genres and oftentimes will add humor to the mix.

Buy at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Winging-It-ebook/dp/B005H8PC3K/ref=sr_1_44?ie=UTF8&qid=1370784284&sr=8-44&keywords=sandra+sookoo

From ALL of us, thank you for joining our moveable feast. Please let us hear how you like the recipes and your favorite lines from our books.

Happy Summer!

Linda Joyce

http://www.linda-joyce.com

Special Friday Post ~ Solstice Supper and Book Buffet

WOOF!

WOOF!

WOOF! (Did I scare ya? Huh? Huh?)

Yeah, it’s me, General Beauregard. Linda Joyce, (she’s just plain Mom to me) has a meal and a deal for you on Friday, June 21st.

She’s gathered a bunch of her friends and they’ve got a dinner planned with your name on it. There’s something for everyone. (Except me. Me, I’m only looking for bones.)

So come on over on Friday for the BIG event.

Bring a bone for me…please. (I have to say that or Mom’ll get mad, cuz I’m supposed to be polite)

Hangin’ at Camp with my Bros,

General Beauregard

Invitation to You. It’s Party Time! Tonight!

Invitation to the Party

Please meet our host, Elaine Raco Chase

Who: Me and You and our radio host, the esteemed Elaine Raco Chase. During the hour, my friends and authors, Barbara Barrett and Claire Croxton will join me on the show.

When: Tonight, Thursday, June13th at 8:15 p.m. Eastern time (7:15 Central, 6:15 Mountain, 5:15 Pacific)

Where: http://www.trianglevarietyradio.com/ an online radio station ~ only a click away to tune in

Why: To share with great summer reads with you.

How: Using technology that would make Lee DeForest proud. (Who’s Lee? The man credited as the “father of American radio.” He was a scientist with the first America radio firm—American Wireless Telephone and Telegraph)

Sit back in the comfort of your home, office, car, or… and click on the link above.

Party Time! AND…There’s a giveaway. I’ll be giving away 10 copies of BAYOU BORN, the first book in the Fleur de Lis series. I have 10 paperback copies (one to a winner) waiting to be posted for those living in the Continental U.S. Those outside the U.S. will receive an EBook copy of the book.

How to get your FREE copy?

You must tune into the radio show and find out.

Also, if you’re a Saturday listener, the program will be replayed on Saturday night, you will have the same opportunity to win a FREE copy of BAYOU BORN (same location rules from above apply.) The information on how to WIN will only be provided if you’re listening to the show.

Come join the fun!

I’m sending out a special “THANKS!” to Pamela Mason of MasonWriter Productions for introducing me to Elaine and making this happen.

Happy Reading!

Linda Joyce

http://www.linda-joyce.com

Along the Way Home

It’s Wednesday. You probably know that, but what you don’t know is what I’m contemplating.

The answer – Christi Corbett and her debut novel, Along the Way Home.

I’m excited to introduce Christi to you.

Join me in celebrating the release of her novel. And…Christi is revealing little secrets about herself!

Christi Confessions: I’m addicted to coffee, sticky notes, and the Oxford Comma. I live in a small town in Oregon with my husband and our twins. Our home’s location was especially inspiring as I wrote Along the Way Home because the view from the back door is a hill travelers looked upon years ago as they explored the Oregon Territory and beyond.

My debut novel, Along the Way Home, is a “sweet” historical romance about a family and their trail guide’s adventures on the 1843 Oregon Trail. It releases in ebook format on June 11, 2013 and in print sometime in July of 2013. It will be available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Astraea Press (my publisher) and wherever ebooks are sold.

Social Media Links:

When I’m not writing I love chatting with readers and writers alike. You can find me in one of the following locations:

Email: christicorbett@gmail.com

Blog: http://christicorbett.wordpress

Twitter: @ChristiCorbett

Facebook: Christi Corbett—Author

Along the Way Home Back Cover Copy:

Kate Davis is intrigued when her father reveals his dream of starting a horse ranch in Oregon Territory. Settlers out west value a strong woman, and though she manages the financials of her father’s mercantile her competence earns her ridicule, not respect, from Virginia’s elite society.

Jake Fitzpatrick, an experienced trail guide, wants land out west to raise cattle and crops. But dreams require money and he’s eating dandelion greens for dinner. So when a wealthy businessman offers double wages to guide his family across the Oregon Trail, Jake accepts with one stipulation—he is in complete control.

Departure day finds Kate clinging to her possessions as Jake demands she abandon all he deems frivolous, including her deceased mother’s heirlooms. Jake stands firm, refusing to let the whims of a headstrong woman jeopardize the wages he so desperately needs—even a beautiful one with fiery green eyes and a temper to match.

Trail life is a battle of wills between them until tragedy strikes, leaving Jake with an honor-bound promise to protect her from harm and Kate with a monumental choice—go back to everything she’s ever known or toward everything she’s ever wanted?

Here’s where you can get your copy of Christi’s book:

Amazon

Along the Way Home