Shakuita Johnson's Blog: The Ramblings of Me, page 20
July 5, 2014
Author Interview – Christa Cervone
Second up today we have author Christa Cervone
Born and raised in New England, Christa is a married mother of three. She began writing her first book, Broken, in October 2012, as a love story to her husband, Frank. During the writing process, Christa managed to keep her book a secret from the majority of her family and friends, including her mother. She finally revealed that she had written a book on her personal Facebook page just two weeks before Broken was released.
Broken was released in February 2013, and within twenty-four hours of its release, it was on Amazon’s Movers and Shakers list as well as in the Top 20 Erotica. Christa released her second novel, On the Ropes – Book One in the Down for the Count series, in February 2014. On the Ropes has also climbed the charts on Amazon, hitting the Top 10 Sports Fiction and the Top 20 Romance Sports Fiction lists. Book Two, Going the Distance, is releasing on July 22, 2014.
Christa also has several other novels in the works, with no release dates announced at this time.
FB — https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christa-Cervone-Author/582898048419207?ref=hl
Twitter — @christacervone
Blog — http://authorchristacervone.blogspot.com/
Your buy links – wherever people can buy your work.
On the Ropes
Amazon US — http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOT5W20
Amazon UK — http://tinyurl.com/m8jawwn
B&N — http://tinyurl.com/o3mux9q
Broken
Amazon US — http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BLSD2KA
Amazon UK — http://tinyurl.com/nfmhc8h
B&N — http://tinyurl.com/q8lelfn
On the Ropes –
***Author’s note*** This book is not recommended for readers under the age of eighteen, due to strong sexual content, language, child abuse, and drug reference. Also, this is the first book in a series.
A murderer’s child…A foster child…A troubled teen…Gabriel ‘The Saint’ Vega has never had an easy life. Being shuffled from one foster home to another after his father murdered his mother, he found himself in and out of trouble with the law. Never giving a damn about himself, let alone anyone else, his life was spiraling out of control; fast. Until one man and one sport changed everything.
Frankie Carbone taught Saint how to handle his anger and rejection; by fighting it out in the ring. On his way to stardom, Saint finds himself pushed into the spotlight and into the arms of more women than he can ever imagine; he’s completely content with one night stands and random sex.
Then Salem Harris comes walking into his life and changes his game plan. Saint finds himself wanting Salem in all the ways that scare him. She is off limits; taken. But that doesn’t stop Saint from going after what he wants, and he wants her.
Frankie showed Saint a new way of life with Boxing, but will Salem give him the one thing he’s never known – love? Will Saint find himself fighting for the one thing he thinks he doesn’t deserve or will Salem end up breaking his heart? Gabriel ‘The Saint’ Vega has had to fight for every good thing he’s gotten in his life.
Interview – Christa Cervone
If a star could play you in the story of your life who would you hire? I would choose either Chelsea Handler or Jenny McCarthy. I love both of them. I think they’re both hilarious and both are authors as well. The best way I can explain my life and family is a cross between Rosanne, The Osbournes and the Munsters. That’s quite a visual isn’t it and I think Chelsea or Jenny could totally pull that off. As for a husband. . . . Adam Levine!
What are you addicted to? I think most of my fans already know this, but I’m addicted to Diet Coke. Every morning before I work I stop at my local Pride station and buy myself a large fountain soda. That first sip to me is like heaven. The best way for me to explain it is liquid heaven.
What are you most proud of in your personal life? Probably parenthood. Though, my kids drive me insane on a daily basis. I’m so proud of them. This past year has been especially trying with my oldest who is 15. He was diagnosed with ADD and had many struggles in school. I’m happy to say, he made it through the 8th grade.
What’s your favorite meal? Cheeseburger and French fries. I’ve never met a potato I didn’t like.
What movie do you love to watch? I’m a huge 80′s action movie fan. I love me a good Bruce Willis movie and of course one of my favorite lines is, “Yippee ki yay mother fucker,” from Die Hard.
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it. The last book I purchased was Orange is the New Black. I’m obsessed with the television show. I purchased the book right before I was taking a trip to California. Let me say how disappointed I was in it. I could only make it to 30% before I gave up. I’m not sure if it’s because I love the show so much or if the book was just that bad.
The Professional questions
What books did you love growing up? I loved Charlotte’s Web and the Little House on Prairie series when I was a child. As I got older I got hooked on Mary Higgins Clark. Now, I read smut. The dirtier the better.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? I was born and raised in Western Massachusetts. The majority of my writing has been influenced from people from my “real life” and surroundings. As they say, “write what you know.”
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? At first I kept my writing a secret from the majority of my family. When I finally let the cat out of the bag on my personal Facebook page I think the majority of my friends and family were completely shocked. The shock has worn off and my mother, aunts and even one of my male cousins have read my books. I know it’s a little hard for them to swallow considering the content. But, they’re all very supportive. My husband is my biggest supporter. He even promotes me at the gym. I told him I was going to make a him a shirt that says, “My wife writes porn. Ask me about it.”
Do you plan to publish more books? I’m currently finishing up my third book, Going the Distance, that will be releasing July 22nd. I have two current works in progress and two more books floating around in my brain.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time… I work at a local university. I also have a small photography business. I don’t write to make a living, I write for fun and if I happen to make a little extra money at it, so be it.
Author Interview – N. L. Hoffmann
First up today is author N. L. Hoffmann…she’s pretty cool and her first book Blood Slaves is awesome :)
She can be found at the following sites…
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HoffmannNL
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NLHoffmann
Book Trailer for Blood Slaves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2upxs_Hph0
Website: http://www.nlhoffmann.com
Author Interview – N. L. Hoffmann
* Describe yourself in five words? Crazy, weird, immature, perfectionist, shy
* What genre would your life story be? And do you have a snappy title for your life story? Women’s fiction… and “Padded room.”
* What fact about yourself would really surprise people? How weird I am. I didn’t show the husband what I was like until we got married. Now, I think he may need therapy. They probably won’t be able to help him. There is no cure for N.L. Hoffmann Syndrome.
*What are you addicted to? Chocolate, beef jerky, books, writing, painting my nails, sleep, sitting, Vampire Diaries, Teen Wolf, Justified, junk food, egg rolls… I can’t think of anything else.
*What assumptions do people make about you that are wrong? And what assumptions are bang on right? They assume that I am always shy and won’t stand up for myself. That is completely false. They are right about me wanting to help people and that occasionally I do take showers. ß that is a joke. I do shower. :O
*How do you work through self-doubts and fear? Just force myself to take a leap without actually thinking it through. Most of my life I have over analyzed things so I wouldn’t accomplish anything outside my usual. Sometimes you just have to step outside of what you consider safe.
*What scares you the most? Being a failure. Being known as a failure.
*What makes you happiest? Connecting with people who understand me. My sense of humor is hard to understand a lot of times, so when I do find someone that can get me, I try to hold on to them until they manage to pry my fingers off of their arms.
*What’s your greatest character strength? My ability to adapt and solve problems.
*What’s your weakest character trait? I have trust issues. Wait, why do you want to know?
*What are you most proud of in your personal life? Besides keeping my kids alive for thirteen years… actually publishing my book.
*What do you hope your obituary will say about you? After DNA testing we have confirmed she is human.
*What other jobs have you had in your life? That’s a secret. –stares suspiciously-
*If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Somewhere that doesn’t go over 80 degrees…
*Tell us about your family? I have three amazing kids who inherited my creepiness. I have a husband that I love, who tolerates my creepiness. I also have an amazing mom and dad who made me creepy, but have supported me my entire life in whatever I wanted to do.
*How much sleep do you need to be your best? I will tell you when I figure that out.
*If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? Darynda Jones!!! Cristy Rey, Shakuita Johnson, Steve Yzerman… And I dunno who else.
*What’s your favorite meal? Anything my dad cooks. I miss his food.
*What movie do you love to watch? Anything that makes me laugh. This Means War… I think that is the name of it.
*If you could do any job in the world what would you do? WRITE! And computer forensics. I like it. I like it a lot.
*What are you most passionate about? What gets you fired up? Writing, my children, my husband, anything that’s positive.
*What makes you angry? Getting out of bed.
*What’s your most embarrassing moment of your life? I don’t think I have one. If something embarrassing happens to me I just laugh along with it.
*Are you a city slicker or a country lover? I am the lover of where it doesn’t take me more than 15 minutes to get to a decent grocery store and a Biggby Coffee… which we don’t have here. -cries-
*What would you love to produce in your life? A novel that becomes well known
*How important are friends in your life? VERY. I have a scrapbook of pictures of different moments in their lives, like where they are sleeping.
*What does love mean to you? That it’s okay to pass gas and not wear deodorant sometimes. Love means… they accept you for who you are and not try to change you. That no matter how long you are together you try to keep the passion going.
*When you get free time on the internet or you go to the library – what do you want to read about? Anything. I like to research random things. Like where the heck did tucking your shirt in come from????
*Do you find the time to read? Usually when I am in the bathroom.
*Last book you purchased? Tell us about it. Weeping Angels by Cristy Rey. I will be reading it as soon as I am done with Darynda Jones recent book.
*Who do you admire? My Mom. She is always there for me when I need it and always trying to make something more of herself.
The Professional questions
Why do you write? It’s my escape from reality.
Have you always enjoyed writing? Since I was in middle school! I was a loser and well, making my own awesome world always seemed like a good idea.
What motivates you to write? Knowing people actually like my writing.
What writing are you most proud of? (Add a link if you like) The one I have coming out August 1, 2014 (Shadow Cursed). I feel like this is better than my first book, Blood Slaves
What books did you love growing up? Anything with horses! Horses, horses, and more horses.
Who is your favorite author? Darynda Jones!!!
What book genre of books do you adore? Paranormal romance, uban fantasy, romance, crime / mystery.
Is writing a gift or a curse? A gift, not many people have it, so you might as well cherish it.
What book should everybody read at least once? Mine.
Is there any books you really don’t enjoy? Non-fiction, self help… just real life stuff.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? I am a military brat, so I was born in Germany and lived in a few different places. Finally, in middle school we settled down in Michigan. I live in Missouri now.
How did you develop your writing? My dad started to teach me about writing. From there as I got older I felt a need to be inside a different world, so I made my own by writing. I used to have an English teacher that would accept each chapter I wrote as an assignment instead of making me do the normal work.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? Depends… finding an agent is hard. Marketing also takes up a lot of time as a self-published writer.
What marketing works for you? I have yet to figure out the best option.
Do you find it hard to share your work? Yes, because it’s a piece of me.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? My family is very supportive. Mom and Dad have encouraged me from day one. My Aunt Wendy has offered her advice and life experiences to help me. My cousin Kristine also encouraged me. Cristy Rey, Terri, Seregon O’Dassey, and Ruth give me my confidence. Then my wonderful friends have always believed in me… there are too many to name and I doubt anyone would like reading twenty of them. You all know who you are!
Do you plan to publish more books? Of course!
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time… I have a job in an office.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk? On my computer. I used to hand write everything.
Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry? Cristy Rey, Seregon O’Dassey, Shakuita Johnson, Darynda Jones, Rhys Christopher Ethan.
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? Everyone I have listed from my family to my friends.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? I’ve always wanted to get published by a traditional publisher. Find an agent and be published by one of the big ones.
Tell us about your new book? What’s it about and why did you write it ? I have a new book coming out August 1, 2014. It is the second book in my The Daughters of Darkness series. Book one is Blood Slaves. I wrote Shadow Cursed to continue on with the story. When Blood Slaves came out a lot of people told me I should continue on the series. So that was when Shadow Cursed began. The following is the blurb for Shadow Cursed. It wouldn’t be as awesome if I had made it. Cristy put it together and it does an excellent job giving you an idea of the book.
“U.S. Marshal, Jacey Noble, has just taken a well-deserved vacation when one of her fugitives ends up murdered. Detective Trent Vinolva is less than enthusiastic to take on a new partner, especially the hot-blooded Jacey. When they encounter a werewolf at the scene, Jacey is thrust into a new world of supernatural beings and high-stakes encounters with no one else to turn to but Trent.
Jacey discovers that she’s a Shadow, one of an order of powerful beings that are able to manipulate darkness. Amidst the whirlwind of discovering her newly activated powers, Jacey must solve the murder while battling sexual tension with Detective Vinolva. Things get interesting when the pair is led to Jacey’s demon father and her flame throwing sister. Finding herself in a new world on the brink of supernatural war, Jacey doesn’t know who to trust. She must rely on instinct to traverse the unknown.
With the Supernatural Council and Trent, Jacey attempts to accomplish the impossible: evade the Shadows who are on her tail and solve a murder. The only assurance in Shadow Cursed is uncertainty. Jacey must journey down a trail of mystery, destruction, and romance.”
What’s your next project? My next project is book three of The Daughters of Darkness series, which is called Death Design. I also have another series that will be begin called Dark Angels of Valhalla.
July 4, 2014
Author Interview – Lillian Mackenzie Rhine
Our 4th author interview today is Lillian Mackenzie Rhine…
Lillian MacKenzie Rhine (“Lilly Mac”) writes in several genres
ranging from paranormal to historical. She believes that the possibilities of creation should not be limited to just one category, but one should allow the story and characters to dictate where the journey starts. Being a beta reader and avid reviewer for several years has allowed her to write her material with the reader in mind which gives her books a more realistic and relatable approach.
“An open mind expands all horizons, and I don’t want to miss a moment.” ~ Lilly Mac
WEBSITE – BLOG -FACEBOOK -TWITTER -INSTAGRAM
Interview – Lillian Mackenzie Rhine
Describe yourself in five words?
random, verbal, vocal, non-conformist, open-minded
If a star could play you in the story of your life who would you hire?
Jordan Sparks if I was skinty
What genre would your life story be? And do you have a snappy title for your life story?
My life story would be a urban fiction erotic tale called “Life Outside The Box”
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I’m an avid gamer and I listen to alternative music
What are you addicted to?
Social media and reality shows
What assumptions do people make about you that are wrong? And what assumptions are bang on right?
People think since I’m from an urban area that I am ghetto or rude.
What’s your greatest character strength?
Having an honest open-mind
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
I’ve been in the medical field for a while in regards to career and education…I would love to take some graphics courses.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Japan
Tell us about your family?
I have four children, 3 girls and 1 boy with Down Syndrome. They definitely keep me on my toes and they are my bestfriends.
The Professional questions
Why do you write?
I take an open approach to writing so I write in several genres such as but not limited to erotica, adult humor, young adult, new adult, historical
What writing are you most proud of?
Winter’s Island and Poison Apology are the writings I’m most proud of. Both books are releasing over July and August.
Who is your favorite author?
L Frank Baum
How did you develop your writing?
I’m a reviewer and beta reader so I tend to learn from reading a lot of different genres and working with others.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
Getting published is the easiest part. Marketing is hard because you always have to be outside the box and come with something different just about daily.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time…
I do graphics for other authors and artists. I manage a hip-hop artist named Elz. Check out his song Rize and Grind… https://soundcloud.com/shortfor-geekgang-elz/elz-rise-and-grind
BLURB:
Winter’s Island is the story of Cay Winters–a young, artist whose only want in life is to not end up like her reckless mother. After being raised by an intrusive aunt, Cay finds it easier to just run free of her fears hoping that the evils of the world will never catch up to her. Well that is all wishful thinking when she arrives in Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands as a mentor to her impressionable cousin.
Her first test is to get through the initial meeting with her cousin’s liaison, William Gatling. He affects her in a way that takes her senses away. Little does she know, he holds a secret that can save her life…as well as end it.
Islands, the pesky, majestic things that they are, don’t allow you to run very far before the demons or in this case…VAMPS…catch up to you, so let’s hope that Cay can make it out alive.
Author Interview – Ashley Phillips
Third interview for today is Ashley Phillips. I met Ashley and one of my very first author takeovers a few months ago and the rest is history. It’s like we are old friends. I’m already in love with her first WIP and can’t wait for you all to read her craziness :)
My name is Ashley Reneé Phillips, I am 27 years old. I was born and raised in El Paso, Texas but I now live in Virginia. I help my sister with my niece and nephew, so you could say I am a stay at home Auntie. I am a clumsy person who broke her leg 3 times within 2 hours. Yes, I guess I had to make sure I broke it bad enough to have a plate and 13 screws. I suffer from A.D.D so if I ever switch a subject talking to you, just go along with it. I swear like a sailor but I can be funny, I think. I love music and movies, I get lost in them really easily. I’m a Paranormal Romance freak and I love it! From sparkly vampires to ones who death sleep and burn in the sun, I love them all.
I am in the middle of working on the first book in the Texas Shifter Series so I have no blurb yet. But I will say my main lead girl has an attitude with a mean right hook. And my lead male is a sexy German who shifts into a lion. So stay tuned!
https://www.facebook.com/TexasShifterSeries?ref_type=bookmark
Interview – Ashley Phillips
Describe yourself in five words?
1. Funny: Well according to my mother I am not funny at all. Of course this is when I annoy her the most. If I am impersonating my step dad though, then I’m as funny as Jeff Dunham.
2. Emotional: I cannot watch sad movies. I will be depressed for hours and crying throughout the movie. I cry in happy movies too or when I am upset. I have no control over these tear ducts!
3. Caring: I hate when someone else is hurting. I have to at least make them smile while I talk to them.
4. Annoying: My cousins can agree that I can be very annoying at times. But this jumps back to being funny. I love to tease and win arguments against them. Ahhhh I love having Bunny and Chi-Chi Rodriguez as cousins.
5. Quiet/Shy: Okay, okay if you know me some might say I’m not. But truthfully I am. Sometimes I like to just sit and hear nothing for hours or not speak at all in a room full of people. Shy though, I have always been. I get nervous a lot. In middle school I had to read off the overhead projector and a kid said it looked as if I was making guns with my index finger and thumb and putting them in and out of my pockets quickly. Yeah I have stage fright too.
If a star could play you in the story of your life who would you hire?
Melissa McCarthy. I think she would fit my sense of humor and could pull off my personality. I think she would be a great me! Plus, I would love to be as silly as she is.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Scotland. Gotta love a man in a kilt! Okay Authors and movies made me want to live there. Long red hair, tall, muscular and a kilt? Yeah a girl could definitely drool in a place like that. Ireland is my second choice. Yep, after P.S. I Love You and Leap Year, I have to say that they are drool worthy too!
What are you addicted to?
Vampires. Well now more Paranormal. I was 6 when my mom took me to blockbuster to make a video tape of myself. They asked my 7 year old sister what her favorite movie was and she said, “The Care Bears Movie!” Her voice was sweet and high pitched when she answered. When my turn came, I said, “Buffy the Vampire slayer,” with a low dark voice. Yeah, I was one of those kids.
What color represents your personality the most?
I would say the whole color spectrum. A color can mean a lot of things and I cannot pin point one because I am not always happy or sad or moody. Whatever mood I am in, then that’s my color. So I would say Every month I go through the all the colors.
What movie do you love to watch?
10th Kingdom. I will sit through all those hours and love every second of it. Being me, I can’t choose just one so…. Twilight Saga, Harry Potter, Mary-Kate and Ashley Movies (Yes I just said that) adding in True blood, Gossip Girl, Supernatural…and many more, we could be here for hours!
What’s your most embarrassing moment of your life?
Oh gosh… okay here we go. When I was a freshman, I had these awesome jeans I liked to wear. Well one day I am at school (a day where I didn’t wear my backpack all the time) and third period rolls around. A friend of mine taps me on the shoulder in science class and says, “Ashley, I think you have a hole in your pants.” Well I blew it off saying that they were made that way. I had no idea what she was saying. All day I walked around school without anyone saying a word about my pants. Well, seventh period arrives and at the end of class the same girl taps me again on the shoulder and says,” Ashley, I REALLY think you have a hole in your pants.” Right before the bell rings. So I grabbed my pink raincoat and tied it around my waist and walked straight to the bathroom. After locking myself in the stall, I remove my pants, hold them up, and yelled, “Holy shit!” I quickly got dressed tying my rain coat around my waist and left the building to my mom’s car. As my sister’s friend and I got in the car my mom asked me, “What’s wrong?” I told her just wait until we get home and I will show her. So I walked in front of them and stood in the dining room facing away from them. I took off my coat and bent over to which both of them laughed so hard they were crying! Here I am mortified and ready to cry because the hole in my pants were the size of my ass with a few strings here and there and they were laughing at me. Even worse, I had on very colorful “granny panties” and now everyone in school knew what type of underwear I wore. Well I have to say, luckily I’m not a thong kinda gal of this would have been even more terrifying. On the other hand, I would have known sooner about the hole!
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it.
The last book I purchased was actually Richelle Meads Vampire Academy, Last Sacrifice. I love this series so much but she ended Rose’s story! I’m sad and broken now. Dimitri! Ahh I guess good things have to come to an end…. Now for Blood Lines!
Who is your favorite author?
I’m torn between Kerrelyn Sparks and Lynsay Sands. Each paint a very humorous world of vampires that is delicious and addicting! I simply never want it to end.
What book genre of books do you adore?
Mostly I read Paranormal Romance/ YA paranormal. It is my Favorite genre to read. You will catch me reading Johanna Lindsey though. I love love love her Malory Series!
Tell us about your new book? What’s it about and why did you write it?
It’s a Paranormal Romance Series with Shifters. A woman loses her memory and when her Brother and Boyfriend find her, her world is never the same. The once kind and sweet woman is now a tough bitchy broad with a mean right hook. Since the book is not finished yet, I will leave it at that and keep you guessing!
Have you met any people in the industry who have really helped you?
Yes I have. Shakuita Johnson is such a wonderful woman with a big heart. She has been such an amazing friend and has encouraged me to write my first book. Anytime I have a question or anything, Shakuita is always there. I am grateful and thankful to have met her.
Author Interview – Isabella Tredway
Our second interview is for Isabelle Tredway.
BIO: Isabella Tredway is the author of YA urban fantasy novels for teens. Born and raised in Colorado, she works on her two series full-time. A Gemini who became inspired to become a writer after reading novels by: Holly Black: Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale, S.D. Perry: Resident Evil Series, and Richelle Mead: Vampire Academy and Bloodlines Series. A life-long reader, Isabella has always had a fascination with the supernatural and the paranormal, as well as folklore. She enjoys watching creepy ghost shows and is obsessed with Anime. She attended college but due to her learning disabilities, she failed English and Math so she dropped out and started working on her Manga comic book and writing Anime stories. Her break out series: VAMPIRACY is set for publicationand will be released on June 15, 2014.
Interview – Isabelle Tredway
Describe yourself in five words? Shy, funny, determined, dedicated, driven.
Who do people say you look like? My oldest sister Angelica Holway.
If a star could play you in the story of your life who would you hire? Don’t know.
What genre would your life story be? And do you have a snappy title for your life story? Real. Rough Road But Alive.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people? I’m a rapper.
What are you addicted to? Pepsi!
What assumptions do people make about you that are wrong? And what assumptions are bang on right? I look mean. I talk a LOT!
How do you work through self-doubts and fear? I cry and force myself not to think negative about whatever it is. But I don’t let the fear hold me back from doing something.
What scares you the most? Losing my mom before I can get her out of the nursing home she’s presently in.
What makes you happiest? My daughter Ambria.
What’s your greatest character strength? I am driven and I never give up on my dreams no matter how insane they are!
What’s your weakest character trait? Self-Esteem issues.
What are you most proud of in your personal life? My daughter Ambria.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you? That I was an author who inspired others to never give up on themselves.
What other jobs have you had in your life? Fast food clerk, Voting Judge, lots of volunteer work!
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? Music.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Anywhere with palm trees!
Tell us about your family? My mom raised 5 of us on her own and I have learned to respect everyone, even those who don’t respect you.
How much sleep do you need to be your best? 8.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? Pink!
What’s your favorite meal? Mexican Food!
What color represents your personality the most? Hot Pink.
What movie do you love to watch? Resident Evil.
How do you feel about social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter? Are they a good thing? Depends on how people are using it.
If you could do any job in the world what would you do? Be a rapper.
What are you most passionate about? What gets you fired up? Helping those who are being bullied and feeling suicidal. I was picked on in school and I don’t want others to feel like they have no one to talk to about it.
What makes you angry? Rich people not helping those in need.
What’s your most embarrassing moment of your life? Wow, I have many of those! At a Drill Meet in Denver, I took my row down the wrong path and messed up the whole drill!
Are you a city slicker or a country lover? Defiantly a City Slicker!
What would you love to produce in your life? Music.
What’s the reason for your life? Have you figured out your reason for being here yet? Probably to help others with their self esteem.
Do you know your neighbors? Not really. They speak Spanish!
How important are friends in your life? Very important, it’s good to talk to them when I have a problem and they won’t judge me.
How many friends does a person need? A couple of close ones is all I need.
What does love mean to you?
What social issues interest you the most? Bulling and Suicide in Teens.
When you get free time on the internet or you go to the library – what do you want to read about? The library, I read about the Paranormal.
Do you find the time to read? I don’t! My daughter won’t allow it.
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it. Bloodlines: The Fiery Heart. I haven’t finished reading it since it’s in storage.
Who do you admire? My mom because she’s been through so much in life and is still smiling.
Why do you write? NA/YA urban fantasy.
Have you always enjoyed writing? Yes.
What motivates you to write? My love for books.
What books did you love growing up? Goosebumps
Who is your favorite author? I actually have 3: S.D. Perry, Holly Black, and Richelle Mead.
What book genre of books do you adore? Horror.
Is writing a gift or a curse? A gift.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? I grew up in Pueblo, Co and I still live here.
How did you develop your writing? In school.
Where do you get your inspiration from? From Holly Black.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? Getting published and marketing.
What marketing works for you? Facebook and Twitter.
Do you find it hard to share your work? Not really.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? Yes they do.
Do you plan to publish more books? Yes I do.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk? Everywhere!
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? Everyone!
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? Publishing my books and being known as a great author!
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign? I talk to teens and they help spread the word about my books.
Tell us about your new book? What’s it about and why did you write it? I’m working on two different series at the same time. But the book I am working on is the third book for my Vampiracy Series. It’s about a Latent Vampire named Zyra Falls and she is a super heroine vampire known as Hell’s Guardian. She must protect the innocent Lugat from the evil Varacolaci who threaten to kill them.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax? Watching TV.
Do you have any tips on how writers can relax? Listen to music.
How often do you write? And when do you write? Almost every day. Wherever I can.
Sometimes it’s so hard to keep at it – What keeps you going? My determination to finish what I start.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel? I just want to inspire them to do their best in life whatever that may be.
How do you feel about self-publishing? I self-published my Vampiracy book first.
BLURB: 18 yr. old Zyra Falls, is a latent vampire known as a Stregoni Benefici who is thrust’s into the vampire world and becomes Hell’s Guardian, a vampire heroine who protects the Lugat from the evil Varacolaci. Will Zyra survive long enough to protect the innocent or will she die trying?
Author Interview – Ron Stelle
So for the 4th of July weekend I thought it would be cool to bring a few different authors in to interview. I will have a few a day for the next 3 days so hopefully someone somewhere will find a new to them author and fall in love :) First up is author Ron Stelle and fellow Heart Powered Publishing (I’m signed with them as well :) ) author…
The Interview – Ron Stelle
Describe yourself in five words? Bright, kind, unexpected, immature and funny
Who do people say you look like? Wolf Blitzer although I don’t get it
If a star could play you in the story of your life who would you hire? Steve Zahn
What genre would your life story be? And do you have a snappy title for your life story? Comedic tragedy, “Really?”
What fact about yourself would really surprise people? I am retired Navy and I am very patriotic
What are you addicted to? Writing, energy drinks and the truth
What assumptions do people make about you that are wrong? And what assumptions are bang on right? That I am well off…. That I am hard headed.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear? Prayer
What scares you the most? Failure
What makes you happiest? Making my wife proud and seeing someone compliment my work.
What’s your greatest character strength? Loyalty
What’s your weakest character trait? Patience
What are you most proud of in your personal life? My writing
What do you hope your obituary will day about you? “He made people think and he made people laugh”
What other jobs have you had in your life? Too many to list
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? Advertising
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? In a log house by a beautiful lake in the good ole USA
Tell us about your family? I am married to my wonderful wife Sandy. We have three children. Phoebe, Michelle and Mitchell
How much sleep do you need to be your best? Seven hours
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? My mothers Sylvia and Pat ( divorce situation)
What’s your favorite meal? Papa Johns favorite on thin crust
What color represents your personality the most? Maple brown
What movie do you love to watch? Independence Day
How do you feel about social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter? Are they a good thing? If you use them right, yes. They are a wonderful way to keep otherwise nonexistent relationships active.
If you could do any job in the world what would you do? I am already doing it…writing. Would just like to do it for a living…LOL
What are you most passionate about? What gets you fired up? The truth in all things. Seeing the depravity of man every single day on the news and in political postings.
What makes you angry? Watching folks become blinded by a false since of security when in reality they are being corralled up for the slaughter.
What’s your most embarrassing moment of your life? You are definitely going to laugh. I broke very loud wind halfway through my “speech” while asking a girl to my High school Prom.
Are you a city slicker or a country lover? Yes
What would you love to produce in your life? Great books that bring forth emotion from those who read them.
What’s the reason for your life? Have you figured out your reason for being here yet? “To glorify Christ.
Do you know your neighbors? A little
How important are friends in your life? Very
How many friends does a person need? One
What does love mean to you? Living
What social issues interest you the most? “Bringing America back to its senses.
When you get free time on the internet or you go to the library – what do you want to read about? I try and stay current on current events.
Do you find the time to read? Yes, when I am not writing which is all the time.
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it. Mr Mercedes… Excellent King storytelling.
Who do you admire? True heroes The Professional questions
Why do you write? Because I cannot stop
Have you always enjoyed writing? Since I began…yes.
What motivates you to write? It is who imam, no motivation needed.
What writing are you most proud of? (Add a link if you like) My short story AWEN in “Almost Reality.” http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Reality-Ron-Stelle-ebook/dp/B00IQ4IHDY/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1404158408&sr=1-3&keywords=Ron+Stelle
What books did you love growing up? “Scary ones”
Who is your favorite author? “Stephen King
What book genre of books do you adore? “Horror and thriller mystery”
Is writing a gift or a curse? Yes
What book should everybody read at least once? “The Streets of Our Youth”
Is there any books you really don’t enjoy? I don’t know. I only read what I like…
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? I grew up in Houston Texas in the burbs. I now live in Chicago…in the burbs.
How did you develop your writing? I still am
Where do you get your inspiration from? Some dude that lives in my head. I take dictation from him. What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? Definitely marketing
What marketing works for you? Haven’t found one yet
Do you find it hard to share your work? Not at all
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? 100%
Do you plan to publish more books? Yes, yes and yes.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time… I work in the auto industry as a service consultant. Yes, unless you get lucky, win the lottery or have a rich support system.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk? iPad
Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry? My publisher and editor Faith
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? My wife. She is my biggest fan
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? The house by the lake and writing stories that folks love
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign? I mostly use social media but I am about to expand that with my next release to international exposure through emails, hitting the trail and the internet
Tell us about your new book? What’s it about and why did you write it? My new book is “Extreme Ramifications” and is about a retired Profiler who has a photographic memory and his other Irish friends and family. I wanted to write in a vein where I think I could break out. We are very excited about the possibilities
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax? Four wheeling, garage sailing, boating on a lake and watching a great movie.
Do you have any tips on how writers can relax? Relax and let the your future take its course. Swimming is good.
How often do you write? And when do you write? I write every single day after work.
Do you have an organized process or tips for writing well? Do you have a writing schedule? Nope
Sometimes it’s so hard to keep at it – What keeps you going? I truly love what I write. I think it is actually very, very good. So I also truly believe that one day soon I will be able to quit my day job.
Have you met any people in the industry who have really helped you? Yes, Faith and Rogena Mitchell
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel? I want folks to feel they have been a part of the story and leave wanting more. Oh yeah, I want them to laugh.
How do you think people perceive writers? That would depend on the writer but overall I think they are perceived as creative.
What’s your next project? Sequel to my first book
How do you feel about self-publishing? Whatever it take to get out there
Find Ron at the below links…
https://www.facebook.com/ron.stelle
https://www.facebook.com/stellerbooks?ref=hl&ref_type=bookmark
July 1, 2014
Cover Reveal – Craving and Haunting by Stephanie Summers
Title: Haunting
Author: Stepahie Summers
Release Date:July 29th 2014
Haunting Blurb
Sabine Crowley is adjusting well to her new life at Willow Creek Manor with Remy by her side. That is, until she finds out some devastating news from Bastian. Has Remy been lying all along about his feelings for her? Had she been a fool to believe he could really love her?
Remy has been accused of trying to leave Sabine, Bastian, and Willow Creek Manor behind. He’s been locked up and drained to the point that he has no memory of why he is there or what has happened since just after Sabine officially became “his”.
Not being paired with a vampire has put Sabine into quite the predicament. Luckily for her, she’s managed to make a couple of powerful allies who are more than willing to help her out anyway they can. It’s up to Sabine to figure out the truth about Remy and how the secret of Willow Creek can help or hinder her quest to be free.
Haunting pre-order on iBooks: http://bit.ly/1jpIWLq
The Re-Reveal!!!
Craving Blurb
Welcome to Willow Creek. People are happy, crime is practically nonexistent, life is good…unless you’re Sabine Crowley, who has been chosen to be the next blood bag for the vampire lord who has protected the town from otherworldly creatures for 200 years.
Sabine has big dreams for her life, and none of them include becoming a vampire’s concubine. On her 18th birthday, she seeks solitude to process the cruel turn her destiny has taken. As she sits alone in Cleary Park, a sexy stranger approaches her. He’s tall, mysterious, handsome, and a complete jerk. He soon reveals himself to be a vampire and she’s terrified of him and her strange attraction to him. She wants to get as far away from him as possible, yet finds herself wondering if she’ll see him again.
Remy, the cocky newcomer vampire, has been summoned by his maker, Bastian, to take his place beside him in the hierarchy of vampires inhabiting Willow Creek. He’s none too thrilled to be stuck in a boring little town in the middle of nowhere where he’ll have to feed exclusively from the girl he’s been paired with. He’s repulsed by the whole situation.
When Sabine tries to run away from her fate, Remy is forced to follow and bring her back. They’re unwillingly thrust into each other’s lives and reluctantly find an undeniable attraction between themselves. Will they ever look past their contempt for one another and act on their urges? Or are they destined to hate each other forever?
Links for Craving:
First three chapters and prologue are available on my site! Check it out before you one-click! www.authorstephaniesummers.com/excerpts/craving
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1jTqtKz
iTunes: http://bit.ly/1oKWpk7
All Romance ebooks: http://bit.ly/UCRQiF
B&N: http://bit.ly/1j7qAOE
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1q1pOYg
Bio:
So what can I say? I’m a self-published author who never considered writing a novel until after I was 30 years old. I decided to give it a shot, and, to my surprise, people actually liked my story! I have a couple other stories I’m working on and a ton of other ideas for future works. You’ll soon figure out that I’m a little bit sarcastic (okay, a lot sarcastic), I curse way more than I should, and I like to laugh just about as much as I like to bitch about things that annoy me. That’s me in a nutshell.
Author Bio:
Stephanie Summers is a paranormal and contemporary romance author. She recently graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in accounting, though writing is her true passion. Stephanie seemed to always have a story or two or ten running around in her mind. At the ripe old age of 30, she finally decided it was time to put aside the thought that she didn’t have what it took to write a novel and began writing her first story.
She has since began and finished a paranormal romance, Craving (Book #1 of The Willow Creek Vampires Series). The second installment of The Willow Creek Vampires Series, Haunting, will be released July 29, 2014. Her short story, Love Forgotten, was chosen to be published in Stardust: A Futuristic Romance Collection. Her contemporary rock star romance, Take Me On, is scheduled to be released September 9 2014.
Sign up for my mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/PWB0P
Check out my website here: www.authorstephaniesummers.com
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Follow me on twitter here: www.twitter.com/AuthorSASummers
Wanna join my street team? Come join in the fun here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1393550944198775/
June 29, 2014
It’s The Little Things
Well, well, well…I finally freaking did it. What’s it, you ask? It is finish my BA for Psychology after 10 years…that’s what IT is!! To say I’m excited would be an understatement. I am just so freaking stoked. Not only will I now have BA but I also have an AA in Logistics from my 8 years being the the United States Air Force. I am in a very different place from where I was 10, 8, or even 1 year ago. I have 3 works published with hopefully 5 more added to that number before this year is out. I’ve met some wonderful and not so wonderful people on this author journey that I have embarked on. I have my first signing coming up with Boston Comic Con, I’ve made an official author website, I’m getting the hang of the whole social media thing (well some days at least), and most importantly I’m having fun. I will also be attending Authors In The City (AITC) next year in March…the tickets are already on sale. Check out the pinned post for details on that. Also if you are interested in being apart of my street team just click here.
For all you Facebook fans I have an amazing giveaway going on here, (just look out for the pinned post) and I’m planning a huge multi author 4th of July giveaway here. So make sure you check back to enter.
For anyone interested I’m accepting participants in my Double Blog Tour/Cover Reveal here, there are review opportunities for the first two books in my Dark Indiscretions Series, as well as chances to interview me.
I’m currently working on I guess what you would call a spin off or companion novellas to my Dark Indiscretions Series which will be called The Dark Indiscretions Chronicles, detailing more intimately certain characters that aren’t detailed as much as I would have wanted in the Dark Indiscretions Series. I also have 6 books planned in a Sci-Fi, Steampunk, Fantasy type world that I want to start working on at the beginning of the year. I’m really excited about it and will even be possibly using a friend as the model on the covers.
I have so many book ideas that it’s become crazy to keep them all separate. I’ve been using Scrivener, which I love! The layout and organization is amazing. It’s especially helpful since I want to release an Insider’s Guide once the Dark Indiscretions Series is complete. Well that’s enough of my ramblings for today! Happy Sunday and for all the True Blood fans, I hope tonight’s episode is better than the last!
Blog Tour – Leap of Faith by Michele Shriver
Single mother Tracey
Hiatt prides herself on having a close relationship with her daughter-
the kind of relationship she’s always wanted, but never had, with her
own mother.
When her mother suffers a debilitating illness and faces a
lengthy recovery, family takes on a whole new meaning for Tracey as she
finds herself pulled back to her ex, Steve Eldridge. There’s only one
problem: he’s involved with someone else.
Steve is drawn back into
Tracey’s family drama and after her mother awakens from a coma believing
he and Tracey are married, the two are forced to confront some
fundamental questions about their relationship.
Can they put past hurts behind them and take a leap of faith into a new future together?
~ Amazon ~ Goodreads ~ B&N ~
The steady beep of the heart monitor filled the room, along with the whooshing sound of the ventilator. Out in the hallway, Tracey Hiatt could hear the occasional chime of the elevator and muffled voices sounding over the hospital intercom, but she paid no attention to them, her focus remaining on the still form in the bed. Pamela Hiatt had long cut an imposing figure, at least where her middle child was concerned, but now she lay completely motionless, a machine in charge of her breathing. ‘Comatose and unresponsive,’ the doctors termed her condition, while at the same time insisting Pamela was aware of what happened around her and could hear what people said.
“Talk to her,” Tracey’s brother had urged when she arrived at the hospital, before leaving her alone in their mother’s room. “It’ll mean a lot to her that you’re here.”
Yeah, right.Brian meant well. Tracey didn’t doubt that. He’d always tried to be the peacemaker and stick up for his little sister in the face of Pamela’s constant disapproval, and Tracey appreciated that. It was because of Brian, for Brian, that she’d rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital upon learning her estranged mother had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke and lay in a coma.
Talk to her. Fine. What was she supposed to say? Tracey sucked in a breath as she fought back tears. She’d long thought that Pamela lived to torment her, and she wasn’t quite prepared to see her mother like this, barely clinging to life.
“Hello, Mother,” she finally said. “It’s me, Tracey. Bet you didn’t expect to see me here, huh? It’s been a while.” How long, exactly, she didn’t remember. Over the years, Tracey had extended a few olive branches, hoping to repair the relationship with her mother for the sake of her own daughter. Occasionally Pamela reciprocated and they forged a somewhat tentative truce for a short period. Other times, Tracey’s efforts were met with a frosty response and she stopped trying.
“Anyway, I’m doing well,” she said. “I’ve got a new class assignment this fall. I’m teaching Tort Law. Isn’t that exciting?” Tracey still recalled Pamela’s look of disapproval when she accepted a position teaching Legal Writing at Northern Illinois University’s law school. The job wasn’t prestigious enough for Pamela’s lofty standards. Maybe not, but Tracey enjoyed teaching it and was good at it. Still, with the retirement of one of the senior members of the faculty, she’d been presented with the opportunity to take over a Torts class and she jumped at it. She’d been contemplating calling her mother, extending another olive branch, when Brian called to inform her of Pamela’s stroke. Life was cruel sometimes.
Pamela didn’t stir, but Tracey continued on. “I’m really looking forward to the new challenge. Classes start next week.” She paused, again studying her mother’s form. No change. Nothing. “Lindsay’s starting sixth grade next week, too. I’m still trying to wrap my head around that. You wouldn’t believe how big she’s gotten.” Of course, maybe you would if you saw her on a regular basis.
Tracey took a deep breath and tried to get a handle on her emotions. Now, with her mother fighting to survive, was not the time to dwell on past slights and years of hurt. Once Pamela recovered, they’d have the opportunity to talk about everything, and maybe, hopefully, repair their relationship. Tracey wanted it to happen, but she wasn’t quite ready to make a bargain with God. Instead of bargaining, she settled for the simple truth.
“You drive me crazy, Mother,” she said. “And you make me angry. Always comparing everything I do to Brian or Kim, never just letting me be me and loving me for it. Maybe I should have given up on you years ago. I’ve wanted to plenty of times, but there’s something I want more. I want a relationship with my mother.” Tears ran down her cheeks, and Tracey wiped at them with the back of her hand. “Isn’t that just the kicker? After everything you’ve done to push me away, I’m still not ready to give up and say goodbye. So you better not be, either, okay? We both have some work to do.”
With the issuance of a challenge, Tracey half expected Pamela to open her eyes and object, but she never stirred. For another twenty minutes, Tracey followed the advice of the doctors and talked to her mother. She talked about her plans for the new school year—for herself and Lindsay—and the prospects of the Bears or the Cubs ever winning another championship. When finally she ran out of things to say and couldn’t listen to the sounds of the heart monitor and ventilator any longer, she got up to leave. “It’s been nice talking to you, Mother.” The longest conversation they’d had in years, and Pamela never said a word.
Tracey jabbed at the elevator button, anxious to leave. The doors opened and she rushed forward, colliding with a person stepping off the elevator. “Excuse me. I’m sorry,” she stammered.
“No worries,” Steve Eldridge said as he out a hand to her. The elevator doors closed again, leaving them in the hallway. “You okay, Tracey?”
She wanted to say yes, tell him she was fine and to leave her alone, but it would be a lie, and Steve would see through it right away. Instead, she shook her head as she looked up into his green eyes. Eyes their daughter had inherited. “It’s been kind of a rough day,” Tracey said, opting for understatement rather than dishonesty. “How’d you know I was here?”
“I have a case with Brian. He asked to reschedule a hearing for personal reasons,” Steve explained. “Obviously I was concerned. He gave me the whole scoop. I’m really sorry, Trace.” There was no questioning the sincerity of his words. “Don’t you think this is something you should have told me yourself, though?”
“We’re not married,” Tracey reminded him needlessly. They never had been, but still Steve shared a close enough relationship with her brother to freely chat about family news, a fact Tracey didn’t always like. How was she supposed to get over Steve if her own brother basically considered him part of the family?
“Your choice, not mine.” Steve shoved his hands in the pockets of his khakis. “It doesn’t mean I don’t care about you.”
Care about her, yes. Tracey didn’t doubt that. Love was another matter, and one she didn’t care to get into with him at the moment, if ever. Her primary concern was where their daughter was, since it was Steve’s visitation week and he was now at the hospital. “Where’s Lindsay?” she asked, changing the subject.
“Meredith took her for pizza and ice cream.”
“Are you sure that was a good idea?” Tracey couldn’t keep her displeasure from her voice.
“Yes, I thought it was a fine idea,” Steve said. “Why do you have to say things like that? You make it sound like you don’t trust Meredith around our daughter.” He raked a hand through his dark hair, mussing it in front. “She passed a background check to be admitted to the state bar, so it’s not like she’s a hardened criminal, and besides, Lindsay’s known her for a year and a half and enjoys spending time with her. You know that.”
Tracey swallowed hard. Yes, Lindsay did seem to enjoy spending time with Daddy’s girlfriend Meredith, and yes, Tracey still had a bit of a problem with it. It was her problem, though, and she’d have to work through it. It didn’t give her the right to be a total bitch. “You’re right,” Tracey said, softening her tone. “I’m sure they’ll have fun together. I’m sorry I snapped at you. Like I said, it’s been a bad day.”
Steve nodded. “Understandable. Want to go downstairs and get some coffee and talk about it?”
“Actually, I really just want to get the hell out of here.”
“That works, too.” Steve placed one hand on her shoulder and with the other pressed the elevator button. “I’ll drive.”
***
Tracey didn’t say where she wanted to go, and Steve didn’t ask, instead driving in silence through downtown Chicago before ending up at a familiar sports bar. Steve had no idea why he chose it, other than maybe because it was so familiar. After all, it was the site of one of best moments of Steve’s life, and also one of the worst. That he counted them as one and the same no longer seemed strange.
“Why here?” Tracey asked as he held the door open for her and led her inside.
“Why not? It’s close to the hospital, and we like the food.”
“True,” Tracey said, settling into a booth. “Thanks for getting me out of there. I don’t think I could have stood it much longer.”
“I figured.” It was why he’d left for the hospital as soon as he’d learned of Pamela’s condition. Thankfully, Meredith seemed to understand why he needed to go and offered to entertain Lindsay. At least he hoped she understood. Steve knew it wasn’t always easy for her, but Mer knew from the beginning he had a daughter. That linked him, forever, with his daughter’s mother, and she had to accept that. “You holding up okay now?”
“Trying to.” Tracey picked up the menu, then set it down without opening it. “It’s ridiculous to be this emotional. I don’t even like the woman.”
“No, but she’s still your mother and you love her, even if you don’t always like her.” Steve long ago realized there was a difference, especially when it came to the dysfunctional relationship between Tracey and Pamela. “She’s a strong, stubborn woman, Trace,” he said. “She’s going to get through this just fine.”
“Of course she will, if only to torture me further,” Tracey said, but Steve could tell from the look in her brown eyes that she wasn’t confident in her words.
“How hungry are you?” he asked, changing the subject. “Want to split the taco pizza?”
“Sure, that sounds fine.”
“How about a beer?”
Tracey shook her head. “No. Just a Coke for me. I still have to drive back to DeKalb tonight, and I’d rather not fall asleep at the wheel.”
“I’d rather you didn’t, too,” Steve said, and flagged a waitress down to place their order.
For the next forty-five minutes, while they polished off a taco pizza, Steve tried his best to keep the conversation light. They talked about the Cubs’ losing streak, the Bears’ prospects, the annual mid-August heat wave, Steve’s recently completed trial and their daughter’s upcoming school year. Sixth grade. He could hardly believe it. In some ways, it seemed like only yesterday that he’d met Tracey at this restaurant after work and she’d announced she was pregnant. The news shocked him, and he’d proceeded to make a complete ass of himself, a scene Steve regretted more than once. Since he couldn’t undo it, he simply hoped he’d done right by both of them in the decade since.
“Don’t forget her reading list,” Tracey said, interrupting his thoughts. “She should be reading half an hour every day.”
Steve nodded. “Yeah, we got it. We’ve been working with her.”
“Good. She likes to read, so it probably doesn’t take much to get her to do it.”
“No,” Steve agreed. “Are you going to be okay tonight, Trace? Because if you want to take Lindsay back with you…” He didn’t want to make the offer. He valued his time with her. Still, it seemed like the right thing to do.
Tracey shook her head. “No. It’s your week. School starts soon, and I don’t want to cut into your extended time with her before then. Besides, it’d be past her bedtime by the time I get back home. I don’t want to disrupt her routine.”
Steve smiled. “Thanks. I appreciate that.”
“Thanks for rescuing me from the ICU. I should probably get on my way, though.”
“At least let me drive you back to your car.” Steve pulled his wallet from his pocket.
“I can take the L,” Tracey said. “Just as fast. Ten minutes back to the hospital, grab the car, and I’m home in a little more than an hour. I’ll be fine.” She stood up to leave. “I’ll see you Friday, okay?”
Friday. When his week with Lindsay would be up and she returned to her mother’s home. They’d been following the arrangement for ten years and had the routine down, but it still hurt to say goodbye to his daughter at the end of a visit. “Sure.” Steve hesitated. “But if anything happens in the meantime and you need to talk…”
“Yeah, I’m sure Meredith would love that,” Tracey said. “Thanks, but I can handle this on my own. I’m not your problem anymore, Steve.”
He watched her walk out of the restaurant, then sighed. “That’s just it, Trace. You’ve never been a problem.”
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I
caught the writing bug in sixth grade, when I threatened to write a
whole book after a class assignment to write the first chapter. I never
finished that book, but the desire to create stories never left.
When
I’m not giving life to the voices inside my head, I can probably be
found watching a hockey or football game on TV, hoping one day the
Dallas Stars will win another Stanley Cup and the Denver Broncos will
win another Superbowl. (Hey, it might happen!) Either that or I’m busy
with my day job as a juvenile court attorney, a position that never
ceases to provide new material for my books!
~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ Website ~
