M.J. Compton's Blog, page 75

My Summer of the Living Beatles, Pt 1: RINGO STARR

Ringo Starr.

I’d seen Ringo one other time, over twenty years ago, and his concert was more like a variety show. It wasn’t just Ringo, but a lot of other rock n’ roll stars. Some things don’t change. The only difference this year was we took the Chromos with us so they could say they’d seen at least one former Beatle live, in concert. Oh, and the All Starrs were different.

The venue was a nearby casino, so getting there in a timely manner was relatively simple.

We had pretty good seats–kind of high up, but straight on to the stage. And we could definitely see the musicians.

And what an All-Starr line up! Besides Ringo, there was Steve Lukather (Toto), Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Gregg Rolie (Santana and Journey), and Todd Rundgren (successful solo career).  The high point of the concert (for me) was Richard Page doing “Kyrie,” which is one of the few songs of the 1980s I not only tolerate, but love. Whoever would have thought I would actually get to hear Richard Page perform it live?

The concert would have been better with more songs and less jamming. X-Chromo & Y-Chromo both said: “There didn’t need to be a guitar solo after every number.” And they were correct. That has always been one of the sources of my indifference to Santana and several other bands. I am not into the jamming. While I like music, I am a word woman.

Other high points included audience participation in “Yellow Submarine” and, at the very end, “Give Peace a Chance.”

The low point. Unanimous vote in my house, Ringo’s “Anthem”, from his latest album.

Here’s a link for the complete set list.

Overall, I’d give the concert 3 of 4 Starrs.

WIP Wednesday: Kris Fletcher

I am absolutely delighted to have my great friend and critique partner, Kris Fletcher, here at Comptonplations today.  Kris, do you have a life memory you recall often and that you’d be willing to share with us and tell us why it stays with you?

KRIS: Our adoption of our second daughter, from Russia, involved a rather grueling court session with many difficult questions. It was nerve-wracking and intimidating, and her future literally hung on what we would say – but there came a moment when I realized I was kind of enjoying it. The judge and ministry representatives had many questions, HARD questions, but I was handling them all and staying calm. I remember looking at the officials and thinking, go ahead, try to trip me up – I’ve got this. It was a rather empowering moment and reminds me that I can do more than I think I can.

MJ: I can see why that one sticks with you. It also sounds like you’ve done a bit of traveling. Do you have any dream destinations you’d like to visit?

KRIS: Wherever my kids are at the moment. I really hate traveling, so the only reason I ever want to go someplace is to see people I love. 

MJ: Do you have a secret talent?

KRIS: Coming up with fun and sometimes honest answers to interview questions. 

MJ: OUCH! Okay, what’s the top book on your TBR pile?

KRIS: At the moment, The Last Original Wife, by Dorothea Benton Frank

MJ: Do you have any recurring dreams you could share with us?

KRIS: I’m in a house and discover a secret room that keeps opening into other rooms. And they’re all awesome.

MJ: If you didn’t write, what would be your creative outlet?

KRIS: Singing. Knitting and other needlework. And I would love to learn how to play the piano, saxophone, and bagpipes.

MJ: If you had a theme song, what would it be?

KRIS: “Just a Gigolo”

MJ: Name one thing you won’t leave home without.

KRIS: Clothing.

MJ: I wish more people felt that way! If you could trade places with anyone for just one day, who would you be and why?

KRIS: Hillary Clinton. I think she has accomplished some amazing things in her life, and I would love to know how it feels to operate at that level.

MJ: Is there a particular movie that you preferred over the book version of the story?

KRIS: How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The animated version, never ever ever the Jim Carrey one.

MJ: What do you normally eat for breakfast, of do you skip it and get straight to work?

KRIS: Some peanut butter & grape jelly slapped on a slice of whole wheat bread & eaten as I get folks ready for school – and then a blissful, solitary iced latte once they’re all gone.

MJ: Describe your ideal or dream writing space.

KRIS: A cabin in the woods, on a not-too-hot summer day, with no Internet or family expectations, surrounded by other writers. Also chocolate.

MJ: That sounds heavenly. Briefly describe your writing day/process.

KRIS: Procrastinate. Procrastinate. Panic. Write frantically. Lather, rinse, repeat.

MJ: Is there a book you wish you could have written:

KRIS: Bet Me, by Jennifer Crusie.

MJ: Plotter or Pantser?

KRIS: Planter working to become a plotter.

MJ: Ha! Do you believe in writer’s block?

KRIS: Yes. It’s very, very scary. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.

MJ: Name three things on your desk right now.

KRIS: Hand lotion, my Kindle, and the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man.

MJ: Do you listen to music while you write?

KRIS: Yes, but only soothing instrumentals – lots of Bill Leslie and Jim Brickman. Otherwise I end up singing instead of writing.

MJ: Do you collage your story before writing?

KRIS: Not with pictures, but I do make a soundtrack, which I consider a musical collage.

MJ: Synopses: love them or hate them?

KRIS: They’re like exercise: I hate them while writing them, but once they’re done, I am ever so grateful.

MJ: Now it’s time for the lightning round. Addams Family or Munsters?

KRIS: Addams Family.  Mostly because every time I speak French, I imagine Gomez kissing his way up my arm.

MJ: Wine-red or white?

KRIS: Whatever tastes most like Welch’s Grape Juice.

MJ: Beer-can or bottle?

KRIS: Can. Shoved inside a chicken on the grill.

MJ: Cinco de Mayo or St. Patrick’s Day?

KRIS: Cinco de Mayo for the food, St. Patrick’s for the leprechauns.

MJ: Last movie you saw in a theater?

KRIS: Muppets Most Wanted. And I loved it.

MJ: Favorite TV show?

KRIS: Now: Big Bang Theory. All time: BBT, Soap, and Alienation.

MJ: Paper or e-books:

KRIS: Both!

MJ: Coke or Pepsi?

KRIS: Coke when I want high-test, Pepsi for diet/uncaffeinated.

MJ: Introvert or extrovert?

KRIS: Introverted all the way.

MJ: Favorite ethnic food?

KRIS: Canadian. Bring on the poutine and doughnuts!

MJ: Now’s the moment! Will you share the first five to ten sentences of your current work in progress:KRIS: The man hovering at the entry to Ian North’s garage was very tall, very blond, and very late.

KRIS:

“Hey Ian. Long time no see.”

“Xander?” Ian tugged his work gloves from his hands and set them on the anvil where, moments earlier, he had been happily pounding the hell out of a piece of hot iron. With a quick glance to make sure everything in his home forge could be safely ignored for a few minutes, he ventured toward his old college roommate. “What are you doing back here?”

Xander pulled sunglasses from his face and hooked them casually over the neck of his silky black tee. “I came to get my dog.”

MJ: Oh, I can’t wait to read this! Do you have buy links for any current releases?

KRIS: Oh, yes.

http://www.amazon.com/Dating-Single-Dad-Harlequin-Superromance/dp/0373608616/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393961863&sr=8-1&keywords=dating a single dad kris fletcher

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dating-a-single-dad-kris-fletcher/1118053063?ean=9781460335338

http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=52559

MJ: And where can people find or follow you?

KRIS: Here you go!

Website: http://krisfletcher.com/

Blog: http://krisbooks.wordpress.com/blog/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KrisFletcherWrites

Twitter: https://twitter.com/krisfletcher

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kristhelatest/

MJ: Thanks, Kris! Good luck.

 

 

 

 

Writing

I’m on a mini retreat, so my typing is focused on my novella, where I’m trying to blend both genres in which I write into one book. Here’s a picture of the view.

 

I had an amazingly productive day yesterday.

Here’s what we drank when we broke for cocktails last night.

See you on the other side!

 

WIP Wednesday: Samanthya Wyatt

It gives me a great deal of pleasure to have Samanthya Wyatt as my guest today.

MJ: Samanthya, can you share a life memory you recall frequently and tell us why you think about it.

Samanthya: “Granddaddy, are you my friend?”

We took our granddaughter to Myrtle Beach on vacation when she was 4yrs. We were in the hotel pool and she looks at my husband and asked this question. We were so awed. I’ve never forgotten and when it often comes to mind. I’m around children a lot. They are so open and so innocent. And you never know what goes through their little minds or what may come out of their mouths.

MJ: That is too precious! What are your top three destinations, and why?

Samanthya: Scotland, Ireland, New York City.

I would love to see the country and castles. There is so much history and so many stories behind those walls. As for New York, I want to see the Statue of Liberty.

MJ: What’s your secret talent?

Samanthya: Writing romance. My family and friends do not know.

MJ: Wow. That’s a pretty big secret. What’s the top book on your TBR pile?

Samanthya: The True One – Stephen’s story, the sequel to The Right One.

MJ: If you didn’t write, what would be your creative outlet?

Samanthya: Painting. I’ve done some Tri-chem pictures, and I love working on family photo albums – decorations, adding memorabilia.

MJ: Other than writing, what would be your dream job?

Samanthya: When I retire, I will be doing my dream job of writing romance novels.

MJ: If you could trade places with anyone for just one day, who would you be and why?

Samanthya:  Anyone who owned a totally private farm and had a pool where I could relax, do nothing and have no interruptions.

MJ: I think all writers long for that! Is there a particular movie that you preferred over the book version of the story?

Samanthya: Gone With The Wind. It is the greatest movie of all time. Everyone knows it. I don’t think that could be said about any book.

MJ: Interesting answer. What do you normally eat for breakfast, of do you skip it and get straight to work?

Samanthya: Coffee – coffee- and coffee!

MJ: Let’s talk a little more about  your writing. Can you describe your ideal or dream writing space?

Samanthya: A library full of books and a huge desk with lots of space. A wall of current research books, a shelf of cubby holes for all my projects and an assistant to file and keep up with my sticky notes. I am a very organized person. But with my writing, my fingers can’t keep up with the sporadic thoughts running through my brain, so I jot down notes and desperately need them sorted or filed. LOL.

MJ: Briefly describe your writing day and your process.

Samanthya: Get up in the morning, grab a cup of coffee and go to my computer. Of course this is only on the weekends and when no one else is in the house.

MJ: Name one writing-related website you use a lot.

Samanthya: I use many, and I google topics searching for new sites to get all the information I can.

MJ: Plotter or pantser?

Samanthya: A little of both. Typing my thoughts without trying to perfect what I’m writing works best. But I still make a plot and do a character sheet and work on GMC. I have some type of sketch or idea of where my story is headed.

MJ: Do you believe in writer’s block?

Samanthya: Of course. If nothing comes to mind, I leave, go do something else and come back.

MJ: Love and true love – what is the difference and what do your characters believe about LOVE?

Samanthya: I love a lot of things. I love a lot of people. But true love – in love – with the man of your dreams is a feeling like no other – and what every reader wants. I try to capture that with my characters.

MJ: Would you consider self-publishing?

Samanthya: No. Having a publisher gives me the assurance my work is good enough to be published.

MJ: Do you listen to music while you write?

Samanthya: Some days I have the house Rockin’. The music is in the living room and I am in the bedroom/office.

MJ: Synopsis: love them or hate them:

Samanthya: Before I perfected my first one, I hated them. Now, they are okay. Most publishers want a pitch/hook before they even consider a synopsis. Hooks drive me crazy.

MJ: OK, now it’s time for the lightning round. Addams Family or Munsters?

Samanthya: Munsters.

MJ: Wine–red or white?

Samanthya: Red

MJ: Beer–can or bottle?

Samanthya: bottle/glass

MJ: Stephanie Plum or Eve Dallas?

Samanthya: either

MJ: Cinco de Mayo or St. Patrick’s Day?

Samanthya: Love both!

MJ: Last movie you saw in a theater?

Samanthya: Thor

MJ: Favorite TV show?

Samanthya: Person of Interest

MJ: Paper or e-books?

Samanthya: paperback

MJ: Favorite band when you were in high school?

Samanthya: The Commodores

MJ: Coke or Pepsi?

Samanthya: Coke

MJ: Introvert or extrovert?

Samanthya: Extrovert.

MJ: Favorite ethnic food?

Samanthya: I love Italian.

MJ: Now for the nitty-gritty. Please share the opening lines of your current work in progress.

Samanthya: I’m currently working on Firemen of Station 8 series.

A red image appeared in Cassie’s peripheral vision. Turning, her gaze landed on a Portsmouth fire truck. Right in front of the building.

A silent alarm went off in her brain – the same way it did every time she heard a siren or any emergency vehicle roaring down the road. Ever since her cousin’s house burned a few months ago. The shock of flames climbing six feet above the roof had paralyzed her and brought reality crashing down. She remembered the desolation seeing their home in ruins. The sudden realization of how quickly one could lose everything.

No lights.  No siren.

Still, a little pang of fear sent her pulse racing.

MJ: You’ve got my attention! I understand you have a book coming out today?

Samanthya: Yes, today is release day for my second book, Something More. You can purchase it here:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And my first book, The Right One, is still available —  http://amzn.to/1lEk2qY

 

MJ: And how can readers stay in touch with you?

Samanthya: Through my website and blog - www.samanthyawyatt.com or on Goodreads.

MJ: Thanks again for joining me. Good luck!

Former Yankee Great Bernie Williams

Bernie Williams was in town last weekend. It was Father’s Day, and TV Stevie wanted to go to the ballpark to see him. Well, hear him. You see, Bernie is now a professional musician. His CDs have been nominated for Latin Grammy Awards. And Bernie was scheduled to play the national anthem on guitar. So we went to the game. I hadn’t been to a game all season. It was nice to be back, although we couldn’t get our old seats (we were season ticket holders for three years, and I wrote a blog with the woman in the seats next to us:  From Section 207). Still we did sit in 207 and got to chat with our former neighbors.

And we got to see and hear Bernie.

We left the game early (me with a nice sunburn), grabbed take out from a local Italian restaurant, then went downtown to hear Bernie in concert.

 

No, I did not take photos during the concert. I am under the impression that to do so is illegal. Too bad the jerk in front of me didn’t care. Every time he turned on his camera to record Bernie, he blinded me. So I would kick the back of his seat. Childish, I know, but he was completely rude and completely oblivious.

The concert was nice. Bernie is incredible on the guitar. I never knew he actually went to a performing arts high school in Puerto Rico–studying music.

But . . . there’s always a but, isn’t there?

I am not a fan of big, brassy music. I know many people who are huge Chicago (the band) fans. I am not one of them. And Bernie’s band had a lot of brass, soprano sax, etc. After a while, the music all started sounding alike to me. To me. That is not a criticism of the performances. The musicians were all amazing. The band leader/saxophonist was indescribable, especially on the alto sax. The style of music just isn’t my cuppa.

But hey! I got to see Bernie Williams in concert, and baseball fan that I am, that’s enough.

W.I.P. Wednesday: Rachel Sharpe

I’m very excited to have  author Rachel Sharpe as my guest this week. Today’s a special day for Rachel: it’s release day for her book, Cold Ambition, but more on that later. Welcome Rachel. Let’s get to know a little bit about you.

If you could go anywhere in the world, what would be your top three dream destinations?

RACHEL: First, Hawaii, because it’s Hawaii, and because it’s the location of Magnum, PI, a show without which I wouldn’t have been inspired to write the Jordan James, PI series. Second, the UK. I visited there when I was younger and have always wanted to go back. Third would be Germany and Austria. I have a very close friend who lives in Hanover and I’ve always wanted to visit her homeland. 

MJ: Ah yes, Magnum. The inspiration for many things. Do you have a secret talent?

RACHEL: I don’t know if it’s really a secret, but I like to play guitar. Also, I was in a band in high school. We called ourselves Outta the Blue. We were a short-lived phenomenon.  

MJ: If you didn’t write, what would be your creative outlet?

RACHEL: I guess I would either act or focus more on music. I did both in high school and they were both a lot of fun.

MJ: Other than writing, what would be your dream job?

RACHEL: Editor. If I couldn’t write, I would love to help someone else make their writing better. As the daughter of an English teacher, I’m a second generation grammar nazi. There’s no fighting that title. I’ve accepted it now.

MJ: People always say “Grammar Nazi” as if it were a bad thing. What is the one thing you won’t leave home without?

RACHEL: My cell phone. It’s amazing to think how dependent society has become on them. Almost everything you could ever need is on a cell phone now. That’s a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you look at it… 

MJ: Okay, let’s get down to your writing. Can you describe your ideal writing space?

RACHEL: Honestly, I write anywhere. I’ve never been one to just sit behind a desk and write. I have an app on my phone which allows me to email my pages to myself, so if I’m out and about and have a couple minutes to kill, I’ll try to write at least half a chapter.

MJ: That’s fabulous use of your time. What book or books do you wish you could have written:

RACHEL: Harry Potter because it is an original story that has had such a tremendous impact on the world. The series was not only translated into seventy languages and eight films, they also have a theme park dedicated to it. A story with that much clout is worth emulating.  

MJ: Name three things on your desk right now.

RACHEL: Computer, printer, and cell phone. 

MJ: Do you listen to music when you write?

RACHEL: It depends on the day. Sometimes, I’ll listen to music for background noise. Other times, I need silence to focus. If I do listen to music while I write, I tend to stick to ’80s pop or instrumental film scores. 

MJ: Synopses. Love them or hate them?

RACHEL: Hate. Don’t get me wrong – they’re very important, but trying to sum up the heart and soul of your work in four to six lines is an art form. It’s not easy and often frustrating, but very worthwhile.

MJ: Ready for the lightning round: Addams Family or Munsters-

RACHEL: Addams Family

MJ: Wine-Red or white?

RACHEL: White

MJ: Cinco de Mayo or St. Patrick’s Day?

RACHEL: St. Patrick’s Day.

MJ: Paper or e-books?

RACHEL: Paper.

MJ: Pepsi or coke?

RACHEL: Coke.

MJ: Favorite ethnic food?

RACHEL: Thai.

MJ: Now, what we’ve all been waiting for . . . what are you working on now?

RACHEL:  The working title is Retribution. Here are the first few lines.

 “My life is completely ruined!” the girl sobbed, covering her eyes, thick with black mascara, with her carefully-manicured nails. “He told me he loved me and that we would be together forever. Now I’ve lost him and everything else. What am I supposed to do?”

Her mother sat on the love seat beside her, stroking her silky-blonde hair. “My dear, it’s not the end of the world,” she insisted. “He’s one foolish boy. You’re overreacting.”

She sat up and stared into her mother’s eyes. “You don’t understand. I lost my job. I’ll never work again after this gets out….”

Suddenly alarmed, her mother grabbed her shoulders and studied her eyes intently. “After what gets out?”

MJ: You’ve certain piqued my curiosity! Now I understand you have book coming out today. Where can we buy it?

 

RACHEL:  At Amazon. Here’s the link:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L2OLQPG//ref=cm_sw_su_dp

MJ: And how can we stay touch with you?

RACHEL: Here are my links:

Website www.rachelsharpe.com 

Blog  www.rachelcsharpe.wordpress.com

Facebook  www.facebook.com/authorrachelsharpe 

Twitter  www.twitter.com/RachelCSharpe 

MJ: Thanks for stopping by and good luck with your books.

Things I Don’t Get

I am a writer.

I am also an introvert.

I have never learned the art of small talk. I don’t “get” it. Either you have something to say or you don’t.

But as an author in the early part of the 21st century, I am expected to self-promote. OK. I get it. I just don’t get how. I think if I post in all the Facebook book promo groups, it’s spam and it’s reaching only other authors.

Experts say to “engage” on social media. That’s asking introverts to do something they don’t understand.

Small talk is only one of many things in life that baffle me. Here are some others:

Camping: a lot of my friends and family love camping. Why can’t you do the same thing at home? It would be cheaper, warmer, and there is indoor plumbing.

Cars as more than transportation: as a former co-worker once said: “I’m driving it, I’m not living in it.”

Going out to bars/clubs: I did this for a couple of years when I was very young. I was never comfortable. It’s loud, overcrowded, and the action doesn’t start until past my bed time.

The need for noise: I know a lot of people who have to have the television or radio going for background noise. I don’t understand the need for that. Silence is golden.

Movies as a first date (thank goodness this is behind me): Why? You can’t get to know someone sitting in a movie theater. A first date should involve the ability to converse. Unless you don’t understand the art of small talk. Then you have a problem.

Not “getting” something is not the same as not liking it. I hate football but I get it. I loathe eggs, mushrooms, and green peppers, but understand why people eat them.

How about you? Is there something in our society that you just don’t understand?

 

 

 

WIP Wednesday: Larynn Ford

This week I’m delighted to have Larynn Ford as my guest on Work In Progress Wednesday.

MJ: So let’s get to know a little bit about Larynn the person. If you could travel anywhere in the universe, what would be your top three destinations?

Larynn:  I’d love to be able to travel the US extensively and see the beauty of our great nation. I’m not so much the bright lights, big city kinda girl, but I do find the wonders nature has to offer fascinating.  Though I’m not a world traveler, outside the US, I would love to visit Ireland and Scotland.

MJ: Do you have any recurring dreams you’d be willing to share with us?

Larynn:  None currently, but when I was young, maybe five or six, I had a similar dream numerous times. I was always outside playing in the front yard. My mama would come to the door, check her watch, and say it was time to come in. I begged for more play time of course, but she’d warned me to hurry because it was almost time. ‘It’ was coming and this happened everyday at the same time.

 I don’t know what ‘it’ was but I remember looking up the road and hearing ‘it’ roaring toward me, like a tornado or the Tasmanian Devil. Fear seized me, my feet became weighted, making it difficult to move. I’d look again and ‘it’ would be coming closer and closer.

I always made it safely inside the screen door just in time. ‘It’ would pass by the house, the wind blowing, accompanying the whirring, frightening, roaring sounds. For another day, we were safe.

Maybe I’ll turn my ‘it’ into a book one of these days:)

MJ: That sounds terrifying, but good for you for thinking of turning it into fiction fodder.  Let’s say you weren’t a writer. What would be your creative outlet?

Larynn:   I love gardening. Never said I’m good at it mind you, but I would love to be. My animals are fun and I wish I had more time to spend with them. A pot-belly pig named Oreo, two goats, Ethel and Tinkerbelle, and Chrissie the cat, would love it if I was able to spend more time with them.
Tinkerbelle and another goat, Wendy (no longer with us) can be seen in the banner on my Face Book page.


MJ: What is the one thing you won’t leave home without?

Larynn:  It’s everyone’s answer these days, the iPhone. How did we ever get along without them?

MJ: True enough. What do you normally eat for breakfast, of do you skip it and get straight to work?

Larynn: I always take breakfast with me and eat at my desk. If it’s from home, it might be a peanut butter sandwich or a couple of boiled eggs to go with coffee from the break room. If I stop at McDonald’s on the way to work, it’s a Sausage McMuffin and a large coffee with three creams.

MJ: I’m too fond of Sausage McMuffins myself.  Tell us a little about your ideal writing space.

Larynn: Anywhere quiet but preferably home, in my recliner, with my laptop, my iTunes playlist, and plenty of coffee.

MJ: And how do you get to your recliner?

Larynn:   Since I work a regular job, my only full writing days would be the weekends and that only happens if there are no other plans–family, holiday, and such.

I feed the cat and the fish and make a pot of coffee. One would think the writing would commence at this point, but as you well know, there are emails, Face Book, and such that must be tended. After an hour or so, the writing, or editing as is the case for me this weekend, will begin.

MJ: Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Larynn:  I  wish there were a choice in between the two. I start out with an idea and write that (pantser). As ideas pop into my head, I’ll start a list at the bottom of my word doc and add new thoughts or bits of dialog as they present themselves (plotter of sorts). Then as I come to the spot in the story for one of the ideas, I’ll pluck it from my waiting list and write it into the story.

MJ: Name 3 things on your desk right now.

Larynn:  My cast iron fairy (picked her up on vacation in a little country store in North Carolina when I was writing In My Wildest Dreams), posters of my book covers (4), and my prized copy of Wild About You. Autographed by Kerrelyn Sparks at RWA Nationals 2013 in Atlanta.

MJ: Would you consider self publishing?

Larynn: I consider it from time to time, but I would need to do so much research to be able to decide. I don’t do change well and tend to stick within my comfort zone until my frustration level pushes me to make a decision.

MJ: Time for the Lightning Round.  Wine- red or white?

Larynn: Red

MJ: Beer: bottle or can?

Larynn: bottle

MJ: Cinco de Mayo or St. Patrick’s Day?

Larynn: Cinco de Mayo

MJ: Paper or e-books

Larynn: e-books!

MJ: Coke or Pepsi?

Larynn: Coke

MJ: Introvert or extrovert

Larynn: Introvert

MJ: Favorite ethic food

Larynn: Chinese

MJ: Now for the meat of the interview. Can you share the first five to ten sentences of your current work-in-progress?

Larynn:  This is from A Place to Belong.

Carly’s SUV sailed through the air. Her entire life flashed before her eyes, displayed across the windshield like a movie on the big screen. She relived every painful moment . . . her struggle to fit in as she was bounced from foster home to foster home, defending herself from school bullies, double shifts in numerous burger joints that paid her way through college, her whirlwind romance–.

Treetops slapped the windshield and brought her out of the trance as she watched what had been her life. “You bastard! This is all your fault.” The SUV began its descent, snapping limbs as it careened through the air on its way to the inevitable crash. She squeezed the steering wheel in a white-knuckled death grip as if maintaining her hold would change her fate. Her head smacked hard against the side window. A gazillion stars filled the inside of car around her. Pain vibrated from one side of her skull to the other.

MJ: I know I want to read more! How can we buy any current releases you have?

Larynn:  IN MY WILDEST DREAMS: http://www.amazon.com/My-Wildest-Dreams-Larynn-Ford-ebook/dp/B00CE3B11I/

“CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS” in ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A SOUL MATE: http://www.amazon.com/All-I-Want-Christmas-Soulmate-ebook/dp/B00GH2I458/

MJ: And how can readers find you on social media?

Larynn: Here are my links:
Website  http://larynnford.com/
Blog http://larynnford.com/
Face Book  https://www.facebook.com/larynn.ford
Twitter @larynnford
Pinterest http://www.pinterest.com/larynnford/

MJ: Thanks again for stopping by, Larynn. Good luck with your book!

Cover Reveal! Cari Quinn’s Sneak Attack

I have some really exciting news to share! My friend Cari Quinn has a new book coming out! And you know what? I have a sneak peak at the cover. Yowza!

BOOK & AUTHOR INFO:


Sneak Attack by Cari Quinn

(Tapped Out #1.5)

Publication date: June 2014

Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

 She thought she’d fought her final match…but the bout isn’t over yet.

Mia Anderson found more than she ever bargained for when she set up a fight with reigning king of the underground MMA fighters, Tray “Fox” Knox. Five months have passed, and both have walked away from the sport that brought them together. Now they fight for love, not blood. Until a voice from the past comes back to haunt Mia, causing her to struggle with her secrets and her need for Tray.

Tray’s tired of battling to be with a woman who keeps pushing him away. He loves Mia, but maybe he can’t love her through this. Not unless she will let him put his back to hers, all or nothing. He’s ready to slay any demon she has—except the one she refuses to share.

One opponent will walk away the victor. And one will lose…everything.

Sneak Attack is book 1.5 in the Tapped Out series, a short novel that follows Shadowboxer.

Warning: please be advised this book contains content some may find triggering (past sexual trauma) and also contains graphic sex and language that may not be suitable for underage readers.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22025111-sneak-attack?ac=1

AUTHOR BIO:

USA Today bestselling author Cari Quinn wrote her first story—a bible parable—in 2nd grade, much to the delight of the nuns at her Catholic school. Once she saw the warm reception that first tale garnered, she was hooked. Now she gets to pen sexy romances for a living and routinely counts her lucky stars. When she’s not scribbling furiously, she can usually be found watching men’s college basketball, playing her music way too loud or causing trouble. Sometimes simultaneously.

The only thing she loves more than writing is hearing from readers! Visit Cari at www.cariquinn.com

Author links:
http://cariquinn.com/
https://twitter.com/cariquinn
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

ARE YOU READY?
::INSERT DRUM ROLL::



Isn’t it amazing! Only befits the amazing author.

WIP Wednesday: Gayle Callen

Today I am delighted to welcome my good friend (and critique partner) Gayle Callen. Gayle is a USA Today best selling author of historical romance for Avon.

MJ: Gayle, can you tell us something about you that most people don’t know?

Gayle: Most people don’t know that I majored in aerospace engineering in college. But I took all my electives in writing, and realized that I preferred creating stories to creating technology.

MJ: So, it you didn’t write, you’d be an astronaut or building an International Space Station? Or does something else strike your fancy?

Gayle: I love to sing and act. Right now, I’m in my church choir, which makes me feel fulfilled. But if I didn’t write, I’d have time for community theater again. I’d love to be in another musical. The last was when my son was in middle school, and we did “Oliver” together. So fun!

MJ: Sounds like a lot fun. Next question: what one item won’t you leave home without?

Gayle: Like everyone else, I wouldn’t leave home without my cell phone. And not just for phone calls, texting, or Facebook. I love having access to data when I have a question. And the maps! Be still my heart—I’m a closet map geek. I also keep all my lists on there, everything from what I need at the store, to a list of the sweaters I own (so I don’t double-buy) to the crochet hooks I already have as I contemplate a new project. Christmas lists, my kids’ Easter candy favorites—I have it all.

MJ: If you could trade places with anyone for just one day, who would you be and why?

Gayle: I’d love to be J.K. Rowling for a day, just to see how her brain works. The world of Harry Potter is so brilliantly created. I just finished rereading the series for the third time now, and I kept finding new things to be amazed at.

MJ: Is there a particular movie that you preferred over the book version of the story?

Gayle: I can only think of one: Jaws. Saw the movie first as a kid, was totally creeped out and wowed by story. Then read the book as an adult. Major characters had a pointless affair, and other things distracted from the focus of the story, that the movie was able to home in on so brilliantly.

MJ: Describe your ideal/dream writing space.

Gayle:  Oh, I’d love to work in an office with huge windows overlooking a beautiful countryside, mountains in the distance, gorgeous landscape close by. Right now I can see trees and birds, and believe me, I appreciate that, but I’d love so much more. Beautiful scenery helps my mind relax and focus on the writing. And of course, every wall would have to be floor-to-ceiling bookcases!

MJ: What book do you wish you could have written?

Gayle: I wish I could have written Loretta Chase’s Lord of Scoundrels. The hero is brilliantly created, flawed and tragic. The opening prologue, where you see his childhood and discover WHY he’s so flawed, is a masterpiece in itself. But the romance, the sexual tension of the rest of the book… {blissful sigh}

MJ:  Oh, I love that book! Okay, I have to ask: Plotter or Pantser?

Gayle: Plotter, big time! I need a blueprint, an idea of where I’m going. Things can change as I go along, but I need to have a path to follow, big scenes to work toward.

MJ: Do you believe in writer’s block?

Gayle: No, not really. But I do believe in writing problems. When I have a problem writing, I know it’s because I’ve made a mistake somewhere, either in my plotting or POV or executive of the scene—something. So I’ve learned over fifteen years of being a professional writer (and thirteen years of working toward that goal) that I have to clear my mind for a while and let my subconscious work. I do the dishes, go for a walk with my dogs, watch TV. Miraculously, my brain eventually comes up with the solution. If that doesn’t happen, then I talk out my problem to my writing buddies, and eventually, we come up with an idea to jumpstart the flow of words again.

MJ: Name 3 things on your desk right now

Gayle: Index cards (which I use to plot out a book), my logbook (where I log in my daily writing time and accomplishments), and, of course, my laptop. Speaking as a writer who began on a typewriter, retyping out the same book numerous times, I believe computers are a true gift to writers.

MJ: Do you listen to music when you write?

Gayle: No, I don’t listen to music when I write. If the music has lyrics, I get distracted singing. Even if it’s instrumental, I find myself choreographing dances in my head (I was a figure skater in my youth). I like the peaceful sound of quiet—although I don’t mind the sounds of others in the house, as long as I can’t hear the actual conversations.

MJ: Now for the lightning round.  Cinco de Mayo or St. Patrick’s Day?

Gayle: St. Patrick’s Day—I’m Irish!

MJ: Last movie you saw in a theater?

Gayle:  The Monuments Men—eh, a little boring.

MJ: Favorite TV Show?

Gayle: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine or Buffy the Vampire Slayer—so hard to choose!

MJ: Paper or e-books?

Gayle: Both—I listen to audio-books, too!

MJ: Favorite band when you were in high school (Marching band doesn’t count)

Gayle: Styx

MJ: Introvert or extrovert:

Gayle: Introvert. Crowds tire me—I need alone time to recharge and work.

MJ: Now for the meat of the interview: Can you share the first five to ten lines of your current work-in-progress with us?

Gayle:  I haven’t begun writing the book yet, but I’ve written a synopsis, a short story version of The Wrong Bride, coming out in summer, 2015.

Conor is the new laird of his remote Scottish clan, where time seems to have passed them by. On his father’s deathbed, Conor was told that there’d be salvation for their people, a match contracted with a wealthy Scottish lord (with lands nearby) for the hand of his daughter. His father wouldn’t say what the clan had had to give up for this marriage and impressive dowry, and Conor fears the worst. But he has no choice if he wants to better the lives of his people. It doesn’t matter that he’s giving over his own life, his own freedom–his own happiness is unimportant.

So off he goes to find his Scottish bride in London, a world as foreign to him as a fantasy land. The bride’s uncle looks grim but does not deny the truth in Conor’s words. When the bride’s aunt tries to object to the betrothal, to delay, he feels perfectly justified in stealing their niece away in the middle of the night. Since they’ve never met—and his future wife objects quite loudly—he’s forced to gag her until they’re well away from London. When he finally frees her mouth, she protests that he’s got the wrong bride, but he doesn’t believe her.

MJ: Wow! That sounds fabulous. Now how can we buy your current release and stay in touch with you on social media?

Gayle: Redemption of the Duke  (Book 3 of the “Brides of Redemption” trilogy)

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FJ376TQ/?tag=gaylecallenshome

B&N: http://tinyurl.com/oqakel9

BAM: http://tinyurl.com/nql4c42

iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/oyyk9hk

You can follow me on my website, http://www.GayleCallen.com

on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GayleCallen

and on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/GayleCallen