Contesting Monday

This week I'm spotlighting Betsy Love-Making a difference one inspirational story at a time.


I’ve always loved the story of Abinadi and Alma, the Elder’s conversion from the Book of Mormon and have often wondered what it would be like to live during that time. Many times I’ve questioned my own faith and wondered if I would have the strength to withstand the persecution which have always fallen upon the saints.

Soulfire-A Book of Mormon Novel was actually one of the first books I’ve ever written. The story takes place about 150 years before the birth of Christ and follows Zephenia’s struggles of trying to remain true to her faith in spite of the evil around her. When she meets Alma, a wicked high priest of King Noah, Zephenia is drawn to him, but she knows she could never truly consider him because of his visits to Rachael, the harlot.While Zephenia and her family are fictitious characters, many of the characters are real people from the Book of Mormon.

Identity, my first novel published in July 2011, is a suspense/romance. My mother began reading a story with a similar plot line when I was about 10 years old. She never finished the story. Years later I was telling my daughter, Sarah, about the story and how sad I was that she never finished it. My amazing 10 year old daughter said, “So write your own ending.” And that, my friends, is how Identity was born.

The most fun part of the whole story is that Sarah is now an adult and looks very much like the cover model of my book. It was fun to use her in my trailer. Then when the cover came out for Soulfire, I once again planned on using my daughter in my book trailer. That will probably come in a couple of weeks once we are able to coordinate our schedules.
So let me tell you what this week grand prize will be. But first a little bit about the history of Cacao (cocoa). In ancient America the cacao beans were harvested, fermented, ground and then made into a paste which was mixed with chili powder or cornmeal. The Mayans preferred it cold, while the Olmecs liked it hot. Either way it was unsweetened, and they liked it bitter. Sounds yummy, I know. Since I KNOW none of you want to win that as your prize, I’m going to offer the modern version! A bag of Ghirardeli’s dark chocolate assorted squares. Now that sounds more to my liking (and it’s my favorite.)

How to win:

1) Become a follower here if you haven't already. If you are already a follower, leave a comment reminding me.

2) Become a follower of Betsy's http://betsyloveldsauthor.blogspot.com/

3) If you would like an additional chance to win, leave a comment (maximum of one additional entry per day.)

Sizzling Saturday

No winner posted today with no contest so how does one make your day sizzle?


Let's face it. Most of us read because we enjoy living vicariously. For the romance reader this is especially true. What's better than your own romance? The one you can read and reread as often as you like. For many, that is what drives the romance market. There is plenty of erotic romance at the physical and cyber bookstores. But what is there available for the reader who prefers a Clean romance or a Sweet or Warm Romance. Plenty, if you know where to look.

What makes a Clean, Sweet or Warm Romance really sizzle? Well, first of all remember that to this author and reader alike, the bedroom door is firmly shut. But where's the romance in that? Glad you asked. In the kiss. Not just any kiss, in the masterfully written kiss. We all recognize it when we read it, but have we ever taken the time to dissect this pleasurable experience? For those in the dating scene, you have probably dated, if only once that gorgeous individual that had no clue how to kiss. And yet you have also dated that less than sexy individual that with one kiss, that very first kiss, KNOCKED YOUR SOCKS OFF! Yeah, you remember that one.

Remembering is key here. Without spilling all of an authors secrets, let's explore that sizzling kiss. There have been a few here and there have been a few that had no idea…

On the written page there is an art to that first kiss that melts us in our tracks, compelling us to dog-ear the corner so we can come back and experience it again. And again. And again for evermore or at least until you return the book to its owner (the library).

Let the dissection begin. Notice that above I used "again" how many times? Three. Plus the original mention or that one kiss, and add to that the evermore. Five times . Five is a magic number in this case. We have five senses, hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch. A skilled author will use at least three of these, and I personally try to use all five, to describe that hot kiss. Not always, but the best out there will tell you that the senses, preferably at least three make for an awesomely hot kiss.

Let me share a kiss that I remember. A real kiss some ut-hum years ago.

What did I hear? The pounding of my own heart thundering in my ears.

What did I see? The darkness of the long shadow where we stood between his car and my condo.

What did I smell? The sensuous musk of the cologne he wore.

What did I taste? Him, the sweet masculine taste that was all his own, hinting of coconut and macadamia.

What did I touch? The solid mass of his chiseled body, the body of a weight lifter.

I could go on, but for this exercise, let's keep the number to five. There are as many visions of that kiss now, as there are readers so let's narrow the vision. This is off the cuff so let's see how I do.

The darkness of the long shadow enveloped us in cool and comforting privacy. He backed me against the brick wall with the solid mass of his chest, his strong arms shielding me from the cool temperature. I knew what was coming and yet I had no idea of the rapture that was about to send my heart racing, pounding in my ears. I stole a breath, inhaling the sensuous musk of the cologne he wore, a sent I was not soon to forget. His kiss was soft, experienced and yet noninvasive as I tasted the masculine hint of coconut and macadamia.

Five sentences - five senses.

Feel free to share your own kiss (Not your favorite from a book.) You are even welcome to follow or dog-ear the page to share or come back and read again and again.



A tiny glimpse of what's coming next week!



Let's see what Jean Kinsey is up to.

I just recently met Jean. Wonderful woman. Jean this is a beautiful book cover, I love the lighthouse and the lightning in the background.

So, when did you discover you are a writer? I mean did that one novel, article, etc. serve as your catalyst?
JEAN: I wrote a story and submitted it to Chicken Soup for the Soul. To my amazement, they published it. Thirteen Chicken Soup stories later, I decided to try a novel. Thus, THE LIGHT KEEPER'S DAUGHTER was born.

How did it feel to write this story?
JEAN: I feel like God is smiling on me.

So is this your favorite genre, and why?
JEAN: I don't really have a favorite as long as it is clean.

I agree, I totally enjoy a clean read. History is intimidating to me. What made you decide to write these amazing historical fiction pieces?
JEAN: Lighthouses have intrigued me since I saw my first one in Alaska. My grandmother used to tell me stories of her life in the early 1900s. I put the two together and came up with THE LIGHT KEEPER'S DAUGHTER.

I love the “behind the scenes” that you've captured. What can we expect from you in the near future?
JEAN: I move forward to the 1970s and show life on Willow Shade Farm in Logan County, Kentucky.

Both sound intriguing. I loved Kentucky when I visited. But for those fascinated with your lighthouse novel, will there be a sequel?
JEAN: I'm not sure, but I'm contemplating it, when I finish my Willow Shade Trilogy. I'm contracted for a Willow Shade Farm trilogy. I think SECRETS OF WILLOW SHADE will be my favorite because I write about the place where I grew up and I couldn't keep the home-town characters from poking their heads into my book.

Don't they always. (Me smiling.) Tell us about your all time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
JEAN: Oh yes, my dad lives in and rules Willow Shade. I originally planned to let him die, but couldn't bring myself to kill off my dad.

Anything else you want to share . . .
JEAN:  I have a short story contracted with "Harpstring," --"What the Blind Man Saw," a story about sex slavery.

Sounds spicey. Whatever you do, I’m sure it’ll be awesome. Keep us posted and thank you for taking the time to answer these impromptu questions.
JEAN: Thank you for letting me visit your blog.

So where can we find out more about you?
http://www.http//kystorywriter.blogspot.com

Coming soon through Desert Breeze Publishing: SECRETS OF WILLOW SHADE, FORECLOSURE AT WILLOW SHADE and MURDER AT WILLOW SHADE a suspense series.

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-276/The-Light-Keeper's-Daughter/Detail.bok

http://www.amazon.com/The-Light-Keepers-Daughter-ebook/dp/B007K1ODKK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1331917415&sr=8-3

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/the-light-keepers-daughter?store=ALLPRODUCTS&keyword=the+light+keepers+daughter

The Light Keeper's Daughter - Trailer

I just have to gush about this for Jean. This trailer was built by teens at Shelby County East Middle School , gifted teans at that! Click on the link below and ... Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3to43B7J9w

The Light Keepers Daughter -Blurb-

A broken heart and trouble with the law washes Belle's dreams of a beautiful life with wealthy Lawrence Rinehart out into the sea. Branded a thief by Lawrence's mother, Belle seeks refuge in a lighthouse on the shore of a secluded little seaport.

Captain Fred Logan, penetrates her wall of defense and persuades Belle to come out of isolation. Together they face WWl, rescue a baby from the sea, and battle the deadly flu epidemic. Will Belle choose Fred or the wealthy ex-boyfriend when Lawrence's boat capsizes and she braves a vicious storm to save him? Will Divine Guidance give Belle courage to do what she must in order to truly be free?

The Light Keepers Daughter -Excerpt-

Her heartbeat drummed through her temples as Lawrence slipped his hand into his pocket. "Belle, I love you. I want you to be with me forever. Will you--"


With the urgency of a tempest blowing in from the sea, Mrs. Rinehart swept onto the terrace and grabbed her son by his arm. "Lawrence, I've been looking everywhere for you. There's an emergency. You must come with me, now." The band stopped to change the tempo of the music.

"What, Mother? What's wrong?"

"Just come. I'll tell you." She took Lawrence by the arm and dragged him off the terrace, leaving Belle standing alone in a semi-trance. Was he about to propose marriage?

Lawrence was gone. His mother led the way, and he followed. Belle waited, fidgeted with her gloves, and tapped her foot on the soft carpet to keep her knees from trembling. Maybe Papa had been right. Maybe she didn't belong here.

You gotta come meet Jean Kinsey.

Yeah, you gotta if you love Chicken Soup for the Soul.
I get to interview her right here, tomorrow.
She's talking about her first full length novel The Light Keepers Daughter,
which was released on March 15th,
and a few other clean reads.

Check out her books here:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-276/The-Light-Keeper's-Daughter/Detail.bok

http://www.amazon.com/The-Light-Keepers-Daughter-ebook/dp/B007K1ODKK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1331917415&sr=8-3

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/the-light-keepers-daughter?store=ALLPRODUCTS&keyword=the+light+keepers+daughter

Sizzlin' Saturday

Congratulations to this weeks winners: Tina Pinson has won an electronic copy of Texas Promise and Donna Weaver has won a electronic copy of Texas True.

Okay, get ready 'cause this one is smokin' HOT!
(This is probably the hottest scene I've ever posted. You are forwarned sweet readers!)

Texas Promise-Kissing Scene (Celia Yeary)


A whisper of a touch brushed his hair. He froze, knowing Jo stood behind him, caressing, and teasing. She lifted her hand again and barely brushed his bare shoulder. He heard her short breaths and smelled her scent, now more pronounced. The musky aroma from his woman floated to his nostrils. With delicate movements, she tentatively reached up to untie the thong, releasing his hair down his back. Her fingers softly moved down his hair, downward to his bare skin, and around his waist.

With a tormented groan, he grasped her hand and pivoted to face her. Wishing to understand his own feelings, he stood still, peering into her face, barely visible in the pale light. He leaned toward her and brushed her lips lightly, testing, tasting. The passion he felt was unmatched by any event in his life. The rapturous fire electrified him, burning through his skin and body, all the way to his heart and soul.

There was no holding back now. He cupped her face with his hands and took possession of her mouth with hot, open-mouthed kisses. Dalton kissed along her jaw to her ear, and he ran his wet tongue around the shell and onward to her neck. Kissing, sucking, and biting, he claimed every inch of her body.

The lovemaking began, in the manner he should have done before, so that she knew without a doubt how much he adored her.

~*~*~*~

BUY LINKS for both Texas Promise and Texas True:

Desert Breeze Publishing

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-Historical--dsh--thru-19th-Century/Categories.bok Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-
keywords=Celia+yeary&x=14&y=16

Barnes and Noble

http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=BOOK&WRD=celia+yeary&page=&prod=univ&choice=book&query=Celia+Yeary&flag=False&pos=-1&box=Celia+Yeary&box=celia%20yeary&pos=-1&ugrp=2

Steller Review

Can you tell us what review of your story meant the most to you and why.

A Five Book review from LongandShortReviews (LASR)--because it's one of the top reviewers and I always appreciate their reviews of my books. They've never disappointed me.

Also a Four and a Half review from The Romance Studio by Brenda Talley. I believe she has reviewed all my historical Texas books, even those with another publisher. She recognizes my name and chooses the book. An author cannot ask for anything better than that. Again, she never disappoints me.

Celia Talks

Celia Yeary is a eighth-generation Texan, and her life revolves around family, friends, and writing. San Marcos has been her home for thirty-eight years. She has nine published romance/women's fiction novels, three short stories, two novellas, three anthologies, and published essays with the Texas Co-Op Power Magazine. The author is a former science teacher, graduate of Texas Tech University and Texas State University, mother of two, grandmother of three boys, and wife of a wonderful, supportive Texan. Celia and her husband enjoy traveling, and both are involved in their church, the community, and the university.

She meets with The Write Girls on Tuesdays at a local coffee house.

I didn't even have to pinch her! She came with her own box of chocolates.
Thanks for bewing willing to answer a few questions.
What hidden talent do you possess outside of writing... something you do for fun, but are good at?



Hmmm, interesting question. I really don't play golf anymore--too hard on the back and knees, and neither of mine are good. But I learned at age 40, thinking it would be a good way to get fresh air and exercise. A friend taught me, and she always says, "I taught you too well. You always beat me." True. Oh, we had so much fun playing golf! And I was fair for someone who began late. I still miss playing, too.

You and my hubby. I bet you're competitive, too!
Name some of your most favorite things.
A baby's smile or giggle.
The bright green of early spring.
Tiny kittens.
Any kind of Mexican food.
That first cup of coffee in the mornings.
Dark chocolate with nuts.
A new car smell.


I hope readers can see our smiles.
What’s your favorite Bible verse or verse that has sustained you recently and why?
"Sometimes God calms the storm, sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child."
Why do I like this verse? It tells me two things. God doesn't control turmoil around us, but He will calm the turmoil within His child. We or someone we love can be heartsick, ill, mournful, lonely, hurt, dying, destitute, or helpless, but those things can be calmed within us so that our hope and faith are restored.

Celia, we don't share the same religion and yet I'm really touched by this. Thank you.
What or who inspires you to write?
I read my first romance novel around 2011, and it was a Western Historical by Janet Dailey. I loved those Calder series. Then I discovered LaVyrle Spencer, who wrote historical romance and contemporary. That's when I learned an author could make you laugh or cry. Her novels--now old and rereleased--could make me cry at the end. Titles--The Hellion, Hummingbird, Separate Beds, etc. She wrote 23 and I have every one saved in paperback form, and they are the only novels I have read and re-read. She is definitely my idol.

What do you find most rewarding about writing?
Oh, this is easy. I love it when someone says, "Oh, I loved your book! When is your next one out, and what is it about?"

We authors are such needy people, don't you think? We say to ourselves, "I write for myself. As long as I'm pleased, then that's all I want." Balderdash!! We thrive on praise, good reviews, and questions such as the one above. Any little kind word about a story or plot will carry us along for days.

I agree with you, you have a friend for life if you like my writing!
Have you experienced writer’s block? And if so, how did you cure it?
It's been said by someone famous, that there is no such thing as writer's block--only lazy writers. But I'm not sure I believe that. I have suffered through a couple of periods in which my mind was simply blank concerning a new idea or scene. What did I do? Rode it out and did something else. I find that my blog is a good way to express myself, so if a plot I'm writing grinds to a halt, I don't force it. I find something else to write, usually a blog topic.

Tell Us About Your Series:
How did you come up with your premise and decide on the setting THE CAMERON SISTERS SERIES:?
That's was easy--Texas. All nine novels, and all of my short stories, novellas, and anecdotal childhood stories are set someplace in the state. It's what I know best--I am an eighth generation Texan, having had an ancestor here before the War with Mexico, and during the time when Texas was a Republic. Usually, I see no reason to set a story someplace else, although I have because that's where the story took me!

In my contemporary with Desert Breeze, The Stars at Night, I do have a few scenes in New York City. But I've been there a few times, stayed in a hotel near Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Times Square, so I felt comfortable enough to include that.

In the first book of The Cameron Sisters: Texas Promise-Book I, I moved my hero and heroine across the state into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico. I lived one year there, so I knew that area pretty well. Again, I felt comfortable doing that.

Is there a message in Texas True you want readers to grasp?
A message? I suppose that love always conquers many heartaches and disappointments. True was a young lady raised like a hothouse flower, loved and protected by all the family because she was "the baby." When she married Sam Deleon, she learned how hard and cold he was, and what had made him so, and she set out to soften his heart and make him love her. What better theme is there in a romance? Although she almost gave up, she didn't because she saw a crack in his persona. That's when she knew she could get in and
make him believe he was worthy of being loved.

Where can we get your books and what is the cost?

BUY LINKS FOR TX PROMISE AND TX TRUE--$5.99 ebook

AMAZON: all my books

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Celia+yeary&x=14&y=16


DESERT BREEZE PUBLISHING:

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-Historical--dsh--thru-19th-Century/Categories.bok

BARNES AND NOBLE-NOOK

http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=EBOOK&WRD=celia+yeary&page=&prod=univ&choice=ebooks&query=Celia+Yeary&flag=False&pos=-1&box=Celia+Yeary&box=celia%20yeary&pos=-1&ugrp=2

Texas Promise & Texas True Blurbs

After two years, Jo Cameron King's life as a widow abruptly ends when her husband returns home to Austin. Unable to understand her angry and bitter husband, she accepts a call to travel to the New Mexico Territory to meet her dying birth father whom she knows nothing about. Her plan to escape her husband goes awry when he demands to travel with her.

Dalton King, believing lies his Texas Ranger partner tells him about Jo, seethes with hatred toward his wife. Now he must protect Jo from his partner's twisted mind, while sorting out the truth. Jo's bravery and loyalty convince him she's innocent. But can they regain the love and respect they once shared?

~*~Five Hearts from TRS~*~
~*~Nominee for Best Western Romance: The Romance Reviews~*~
~*~Finalist in Best Historical Romance: Reader Awards
~*~ Five Cups and Honorable Mention for Best Historical: Love Romances Cafe~*~
~*~Five Books from Long and Short Romance Reviews~*~

At a Governor's Ball in Austin, Texas, True Lee Cameron meets suave Sam Deleon. Before the night is out, she transforms from the coddled and protected younger sister to a woman in love. Reality crashes down when she accidentally learns he has deceived her. Daring to disobey him, she follows Sam to the oilfields and determines to live wherever he does. Has she made a mistake? Will she give up and return home where she can make her own rules?


When Sam Deleon meets the gorgeous young woman his mother has chosen for him, he fears falling in love, because he knows nothing about love. In order to carry out his mother’s plan, he marries True and moves her to his mother's home, intending to visit enough to set the plan in motion. When True fails to obey him, he faces the possibility of losing her, thereby losing his inheritance and the family property.

Sam and True attempt a reconciliation and compromise. Together, they now face a nemesis, someone who determines to thwart every action they take, endangering not only their lives, but also those whom they love.

~*~*~*~Five Books-LASR
~*~*~*~Four and a Half Hearts-The Romance Studio
~*~*~*~Four and a Half Cups-Coffeetime Romance

BUY LINKS for both Texas Promise and Texas True:

Desert Breeze Publishing
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-Historical--dsh--thru-19th-Century/Categories.bok

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Celia+yeary&x=14&y=16

Barnes and Noble
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=BOOK&WRD=celia+yeary&page=&prod=univ&choice=book&query=Celia+Yeary&flag=False&pos=-1&box=Celia+Yeary&box=celia%20yeary&pos=-1&ugrp=2

Celia Yeary-Romance...and a little bit 'o Texas
http://www.celiayeary.blogspot.com/

Tickle - Tease Tuesday

"You should never have come here." This time his tone softened.


"Yes, so you've pointed out to me many times." She gazed sadly out the door of the tent, seeing nothing. "I won't be here much longer, so you don't need to worry."

"True?"

She turned her listless gaze toward him. "What?"

"I... I suppose I'll miss you."

Straightening her spine, she turned to face him. Looking directly into his eyes, she said, "You're a piece of work, Sam Deleon. That's the first kind word you've said to me since I've been here. Now that I'm going, you conjure up one nice thing to say." Bitterness laced her words.

Whispering, he said, "I enjoyed our nights together, True."

Her poor, pathetic heart almost came to life with his few words. What a small amount of attention she needed to feel as though she basked in the glow of his love. But she had been a fool to fall for him in the first place, and she had no inkling of how he really felt about her.

True stood beside his bed and looked down on him, almost with pity. "Wouldn't any beautiful socialite do just as well, Sam?"

She began to turn and walk away, when his good arm shot out and hauled her down on his chest. He moved his hand to the back of her head and pulled her mouth to his. Almost violently, he ravaged her, kissing her hard and then, softly. She allowed the kiss, because she needed something from him, weak as she was around him. But soon, she broke away and looked down into his handsome face.

"Good-bye, Sam." She stood and walked away as sedately as she could.

~*~*~*~

BUY LINKS for both Texas Promise and Texas True:

Desert Breeze Publishing
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-Historical--dsh--thru-19th-Century/Categories.bok Amazon

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Celia+yeary&x=14&y=16

Barnes and Noble
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=BOOK&WRD=celia+yeary&page=&prod=univ&choice=book&query=Celia+Yeary&flag=False&pos=-1&box=Celia+Yeary&box=celia%20yeary&pos=-1&ugrp=2

It's contesting Monday Again!

This week's spotlight is on Celia Yeary and the two books of her Cameron Sisters Series. We are offering not one but two chances to win an electronic copy of Texas Promises and/or Texas True.

New followers will automatically be entered to win, but you can have another chance to win by simply leaving a comment.

A Genealogy Chart for Characters?

There was a time that I devoted every Sunday afternoon to genealogy ... until my son complained that I should spend the hours with the living, not the dead. --but Genealogy for fictional characters? Yeah, I've done that too, but not as in depth as Celia Yeary, guest author on my blog this week.

The Camerons of Texas


Have you ever created a genealogy chart for a fictional family you invented for novels? If no one says 'yes,' I may feel a little foolish. I did just that after I'd written and published three Western Historical novels under the subtitle--The Camerons of Texas.

In each couple's story, the hero and heroine were not the only characters in the books. There were parents, stepchildren, adopted children, brothers, sisters, and cousins. A large clan of Camerons. In my mind, I had enough material for about a dozen more stories. Today, I'm at least making a dent in my list.

In TEXAS BLUE (published elsewhere), the hero, Buck Cameron, had two sisters who appeared in the story. The first was Charlotte who had married William Garrison. Their two children were Maximilian and Katherine--Max and Kat.

~*~I used a grown-up Max in a novella "Dime Novel" titled Angel and the Cowboy.

~*~I used Charlotte in another "Dime Novel" titled Charlotte and the Tenderfoot.

~*~Now, I'm writing Kat and the U.S. Marshal as another one.

I agree this can be confusing, and that's the reason I made the chart. We authors feel like normal people, don't we? Even though we have characters in our heads and hearts that are very real. Any non-author cannot understand this, and so I don't talk about it to anyone except others such as I.

Unless I get a serious mental block, I have a list of characters for future novels or novellas:

~*~Lee Cameron King--he appeared in Texas Blue as a small boy who picked his nose and rode imaginary horses around the yard. I'd like to make him an early 20th Century entrepreneur during the oil boom in Texas--a wildcatter, a risk taker, a rich man with money to make money, a tough businessman who has a big sense of humor. I'd have him run into a real buzz-saw, a serious woman who is investigating oil company monopolies for a New York newspaper.

~*~Jackson Rene Deleon--he was the baby boy in Texas True. I see Jackson grown up and the heir to the great Deleon fortune. At a young age, he becomes the head of an empire consisting of ranching in Texas, gold and silver mines in Colorado, and shipping lines out of Houston. I'd have him meet a titled British lady whom he must convince to marry him and live in South Texas on the ranch--the headquarters for the Texas Star Corporation his father formed.

~*~Lacy Deleon--she was the little niece of Sam Deleon in Texas True, born in the Flats in Austin, a prostitution area where she and her little brother, Antonio, were born and lived. When True Cameron married Sam Deleon, she found the small girl and boy and brought them home, causing a huge problem. But True was determine to raise them as their own children. Lacy, now grown into a proper young lady, discovers her lurid birthplace and challenges the local government to do something. She would meet a brash, young attorney/senator and entice him to help her.

~*~Antonio Deleon--Lacy's little wild brother in Texas True. He was a hellion as a kid, although lovable and good-hearted. But he didn't understand the word "no." I see him grown and sowing too many wild oats and getting in trouble. I'd like him to meet a strong-willed female rancher who challenges him to straighten up and learn to be a man.

~*~Laura Lynn Paxton--Jo King's half-niece in Texas Promise . Beauty Laura Lynn has such a horrible past she knows little about, but sets out to find the burial place of her prostitution mother in New Mexico. In doing so, she hires a tracker to help her.

~*~Alexander King--son of Dalton and Jo King in Texas Promise. I have high hopes for the darling child. Just look at his name. He has it all--handsome, rich, smart, educated, adored by the entire family...and takes it all for granted. Until...what? His story will require much thought.

Celia Yeary-Romance...and a little bit 'o Texas

http://www.celiayeary.blogspot.com

http://www.celiayeary.com

Announcing Saturday

Congratulations to: Gina -- Touched by Mercy
and Tina Scott -- In the Manor of the Ghost
Ladies, please email shassidy@comcast.net to verify your info. And again, Congratulations!

Tina Pinson resides in Mesa, Arizona with her husband of thirty plus years, Danny.


Tina started her first novel in elementary school. Her love of writing has caused her to seek creative outlets be it writing poetry, songs, or stories.

In the Manor of the Ghost and Touched By Mercy were published through Desert Breeze Publishers.

When Shadows Fall, Shadowed Dreams, and To Catch a Shadow the first three installments of the Shadow Series about the civil war and the Oregon trail, will be available through Desert Breeze over the next year.

She is currently working on: Tamed/Changed by Mercy, sequel to Touched By Mercy that carries on the story of Allan and Samantha. The Cross of the Sultan, which takes place in modern Turkey, and deals with uncovering buried treasure. Counting Tessa, a contemporary/ futuristic fiction/time travel, is a story about gene mutation and cloning. From Hell to Eternity, is about the Civil War Prison in Andersonville, Georgia and deals with some witchcraft and mysticism. Finding Middle C is another Civil War yarn that deals with loss and finding the music of life. Portraits in Shades of Gray are three vignettes of life in the darkness moving to light in Christ.

Touched By Mercy is warm, but mainly because of some content that deals with child abuse. It is a Christian Historical Fiction novel.


In The Manor of the Ghost is sweet. It has been called a Christian Historical Gothic novel.

Coming Soon--Three books in my Shadows Series,

When Shadows Fall--June 2012,

Shadowed Dreams -- December 2012

To Catch a Shadow -- early 2013.

Flirting with Kisses Friday

Today we're tasteing Sam's kiss from Touched by Mercy.

Excerpt is uneditited and used by permission.


Had she heard him right? If so, she wasn't sure she wanted to. To cover her pounding heart and flushed face, Sam took to rounding up everyone for dinner, stealing glances at Allan every chance she had.

'What about my chance?' he'd said. What did he mean by that? Surely not what her heart wanted to believe? If Allan's smile were indication, that's exactly what he meant. And he'd been saying the same for several days now. Oh, she wanted to hear more. Feel more. But Samantha couldn't allow it. She couldn't allow such a wonderful man, a friend at that, to care for her. He'd only be hurt.

She couldn't betray him.

In a vain attempt to rectify the situation, Sam placed him between Delia and Gretchen during the meal. Then spent the entire dinner chiding herself for being jealous.

Allan seemed confused every time he looked her way. He probably doesn't understand you at all. Doesn't know why you're so warm and friendly then cold the next minute? How could you toy with him like that? At least, while she disappointed him, Allan found pleasure in something that evening. Quentin could cook. He not only lived through the meal, but had himself a second helping.

Walking him to the door that evening, Sam couldn't begin to control the beating of her heart. It nearly pushed its way from her chest when Allan leaned over and caught her chin. "I think I should exact that payment we spoke about," he whispered.

"What are you--?" Her question lost itself against his lips. Drowned by his sigh. Silenced by the warmth that invaded her.

He pulled away. She stared at him through glazed eyes, smiling like a dolt. He groaned softly and kissed her again. This time he pulled her into his arms and held her tightly, as though he were afraid she'd get away. His breathing sounded quite irregular when he pulled away. "I'll have to exact that payment more often." He kissed the tip of her nose. "Good evening, Miss Northam." He winked, slipped on his hat and took his leave.

Talking with Tina Pinson

Tina, before I forget, thank you for coming and sharing this week. You make blogging fun! Tell us what is the funniest thing that ever happened to you or you witnessed that made you laugh so hard you couldn’t catch your breath?  

Well, I fell in an open manhole. At the time, I was embarrassed to death. I knew the cover was missing and was too busy acting cool to pay attention. Now it makes me laugh.

Why did you begin writing?
Well, I like to tell people that it was because I used to get in trouble lying and writing gave me an outlet for my imagination without getting me spanked.

Strict parents.What was your favorite book growing up that inspired you to try your hand at writing? 
From the Mixed Up Files of Basil E. Frankweiler. I found the simple story of children running away to live in the museum fascinating.

We're highlighting two of your books this week and you mentioned that In the Manor of the Ghost has earned a sweet heat rating. But Touched by Mercy a warm. Tell us why.
Touched By Mercy is warm, but mainly because of some content that deals with child abuse. It is a Christian Historical Fiction novel.
In The Manor of the Ghost is sweet. It has been called a Christian Historical Gothic novel.
Can I share what I'm up to?

Of course, please do.
Coming Soon--Three books in my Shadows Series,
When Shadows Fall--June 2012,
Shadowed Dreams -- December 2012
To Catch a Shadow -- early 2013.

You're a busy lady, so tell us a bit more.
I reside in Mesa, Arizona with my husband of thirty plus years, Danny.

I started my first novel in elementary school. My love of writing has caused me to seek creative outlets be it writing poetry, songs, or stories.

In the Manor of the Ghost and Touched By Mercy were published through Desert Breeze Publishers.

When Shadows Fall, Shadowed Dreams, and To Catch a Shadow the first three installments of the Shadow Series about the civil war and the Oregon trail, will be available through Desert Breeze over the next year.

I'm currently working on: Tamed/Changed by Mercy, sequel to Touched By Mercy that carries on the story of Allan and Samantha. The Cross of the Sultan, which takes place in modern Turkey, and deals with uncovering buried treasure. Counting Tessa, a contemporary/ futuristic fiction/time travel, is a story about gene mutation and cloning. From Hell to Eternity, is about the Civil War Prison in Andersonville, Georgia and deals with some witchcraft and mysticism. Finding Middle C is another Civil War yarn that deals with loss and finding the music of life. Portraits in Shades of Gray are three vignettes of life in the darkness moving to light in Christ.

Trailer - In the Manor of the Ghost

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AswjM3L-ejY&feature=player_embedded

In the Manor of the Ghost


Blurb

It's the 1870's. The Civil War has long since been fought and laid to rest, settlers are still joining the wagon trains and heading west to the New Eden. The land is changing. But those who dwell in Clayborne Manor seem trapped in time.

Trapped amid the whispers of failure and sorrow, whispers of longing and defeat. Kaitlin hears them clearly at night. But who haunts Clayborne Manor? The ghost that restlessly walks the halls in the night? Or the ones that plague the minds and spirits of those residing there? Though not inclined to believe the dead can walk the night laden corridors, Kaitlin can see them clearly in the eyes of her husband Devlin, and hear them in the deafening silence of her son, Derrick.

Does she have the courage to search the past and face the ghosts? Does she have the faith to stay and direct all those who dwell In the Manor of the Ghost to the one who sets the captive free?

Tickle/Tease Tuesday

In the Manor of the Ghost

Excerpt is unedited and used by permission.


Marrying Jean Marc was a dream come true. This marriage might well become a nightmare.

Yet here she stood. What an idiot?

Her first wedding was held in a pristine chapel in southern France, with several from the gentry in attendance. No one dared compare this weathered church with the finery of Europe. Those attending now, though dressed in their Sunday meeting clothes, their finest, looked liked they prepared to go to work in one of the homes of Paris' wealthy.

None of that really mattered. Caitlin didn't care if they didn't reach the standard of the people in the life she'd known before. She didn't care if there were no royals in the small gathering. What she really missed and what she wanted now, was to know she made these vows with someone who loved her. She missed Jean Marc so strongly in that instance her tears welled up.

She missed her husband's touch -- he never gripped her hands so callously as the man who stood beside her now.

What was she doing?

She missed Jean Marc's voice -- tenor, smooth and musical. Devlin spoke curtly in deep trembles of baritone.

Could she really find happiness without love?

She missed her husband's eyes -- rich brown, soft, concerned. She looked up hoping for them and caught a chill from the black eyes that stared at the preacher. They bore contempt. Hatred. She shivered and looked at the preacher.

Reverend Marlow smiled at Devlin and bowed his head to her then graciously continued with the service.

Caitlin could barely recount the ceremony, but she could remember, with clarity, the way Devlin looked at her. Did she see a hint of a smile before his lips met hers to seal the pact they'd spent the last few minutes vowing to keep -- in words she wasn't sure she'd spoken? His eyes were black, foreboding, but shining with hidden words she dare not let herself read or believe he'd even spoken.

By the warmth and the pressure of his lips on hers, she could, for a moment, almost believe that this was her love. Devlin gave more than required under the circumstances. With each passing second, where his mouth molded and searched hers, she found herself wanting things she'd told herself she'd never have again.

Her body defied her mind, almost verbally, as it cried out to be loved again. It'd been so long. Sinking further into the bliss, she fought to maintain her calm, her heart wouldn't let her. Letting her fingers burrow into the thickness of his ebony hair, along the nape of his neck, she kissed him back with equal fervency.

When he pulled away, she felt breathless, shaky. It wasn't from fear. Had he felt it too? No, it was nothing. Devlin had put on a show for those in attendance. So why did that bother her, why did she want it to be more than a kiss? More than a business deal? She hated herself for her weakness, hated herself for signing the papers.

Contest-ing Monday w/ Tina Pinson

This week's contest is a chance to win not one but two of Tina's books.
(Books are in Ebook format.)( 2 winners, each wins one book.)

Become a follower here if you are not already a follower.

Visit Tina's Blog at http://www.tinapinson.blogspot.com/

 and become a follower or like Tina on her Face book Author Page. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tina-E-Pinson/121116301246341

Email me at shassidy@comcast.net to tell me you have done two of the three.

 

In the Manor of the Ghost and Touched By Mercy.

Winners will be drawn by Tina and announced here on Saturday. Good luck and come back throughout the week to learn more!

Tina's website -- http://www.tinapinson.com/


Twitter:@Tina_Pinson

Facebook-- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=754617103



Purchase Tina's books at:

Desert Breeze Bookstore.

Touched By Mercy http://tiny.cc/0rgkm

In the Manor of the Ghost http://tiny.cc/we4ul

Amazon:

Touched By Mercy http://tiny.cc/k5tgw

In the Manor of the Ghost http://tiny.cc/doc8w

Barnes & Noble

Touched By Mercy—available soon

In the Manor of the Ghost http://tiny.cc/oh767

Christian Books Distributors

Touched By Mercy – available soon

In the Manor of the Ghost http://tiny.cc/4u5h9

Review - Queen in Exile

Donna Hatch's Queen in Exile is a fantasy romance reminiscent of regency romances complete with royalty, knights and battles. When the entire kingdom threatens to be subjugated by evil, Jeniah, the princess and heir apparent, is spirited away by the handsome Kai Darkwood on his ducorn -- think unicorn beauty with the double horn and fighting ability of a rhinoceros. With enemies chasing them and Captain Darkwood's near fatal wounds, they must survive the cruel winterscape and nature's predators to reach safety.


In the process, Jeniah finds something worth dying for. But will her commitment to her country keep her from the man she loves? Will his commitment to the oaths he has taken to his own king and himself keep them apart?

I give this novel an energetic four stars.
And if you can catch it on the scrowling books above, just click it and go to Amazon to read more reviews and buy!

My Bad

For those dropping by Saturday to learn who won the book give away, my deepest apologizes. Thank you for stopping by and I'll do better in the future, I promise.
4pm arrived and I still hadn't recieved word from June as to the winner. June is heavily involved in a St. Patrick's Day promotion elsewhere.

Announcing -- And the winner is

Drum roll please.
The contest answer is: June writes in their RV!
And the winner is: Susan B. Haws.


Remember to pop over the June's blog and leave a comment with your email address so she can get your copy of Give Us This Day.

Congratulations!

Next week we"ll be visiting with Tina Pinson.

(Those of you who know me and follow here on Saturdays know that I don't post terribly early due to time Zone differences between me and the author I'm interviewing.  Okay, I like to sleep on Saturday mornings too.)

Let's get to know June

June Foster is a retired school teacher with a BA in Education and a MA in counseling. She writes full time and travels in her RV with her husband Joe. June has contracts for four novels with Desert Breeze Publishing. The Bellewood Series, Give Us This Day – February 1, 2012, Hometown Fourth of July – July 1, 2012, As We Forgive – September 1, 2012, and Deliver Us – April 1, 2013. June loves to write stories about characters who overcome the issues in their lives by the power of God. June uses her training in counseling and her Christian beliefs in creating characters who find the freedom to live godly lives.

Contest hint: Look at the picture real close, the cabinets are a bit low, there's a tell tale with the window blinds. Is that chair secured?

Talking Thursday w/ June Foster, author of Give Us This Day

Give Us This Day is the first in The Bellewood Series scheduled for release through Desert Breeze Publishing.


June, what do you love about your latest book?
I guess what I love the most is the fact that it's my debut novel which means I've got the opportunity now to get my stories "out there." I'm praying my stories will bring hope to readers who deal with similar issues as my characters.

Can you tell us something about this book that your readers would love to hear?
Jess Colton, the hero in Give Us This Day, is a computer geek who lives and works in Bellewood, a fictional name for the Microsoft mecca of Western Washington, Bellevue.

Tell us about your dream of becoming a writer.
That's the crazy part about me. I never dreamed of becoming a writer nor did I have the desire to do so. After I retired from teaching, I discovered a story lurking in my head. I told my daughter about it, and she casually remarked that I should write it. That was the spark which the Lord used to put the desire in my heart.

When did you decide you wanted to write, for real?
As I said above, the Lord literally opened up my heart and poured the desire to write inside. God was my only catalyst. I felt as if I was compelled to begin writing my stories. I read every "how to" book I could get my hands on and started pounding the keys of my laptop.

How does it feel when you write?
When I write, I feel as if I'm telling God's story. Sometimes I get a feeling about a character, as if he/she is my best friend, and I care about them. Now, don't laugh, but once when my husband and I were worshiping in a church service, I saw in my mind's eye, my character standing right there next to me worshiping as well.

Tell us what your favorite genre is, and why?
Before I started writing, I read end-time fiction such as the Left Behind Series. So crazy because I had never read romance and now that's what I write.

How is it that you decided inspirational romance is what you do best?
I can't explain it. The stories God gives me are contemporary inspirational romances though I've toyed with the idea of writing romantic suspense. But that's for another day.

Is there a secret recipe to writing inspirational romance?
When I first started writing, I read "Writing the Christian Romance" by Gail Gaymer Martin which was like my Bible. I learned so much from that book.

Tell us about your all time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?
Ryan Reed from Ryan's Father is my favorite character. He's not modeled after any real person. The stakes are higher for Ryan than any of my other characters. Of all my others, Ryan has to take hold more firmly of his Christian faith to see him through his dilemma and become whole in Christ. His issue is one that the Christian market seems to want to sweep under the carpet for now, but I believe the Lord will eventually find a home for this book.

In case you want to know the theme of the book, here it is. Ryan Reed battles same sex attraction but through his confession that homosexuality is a sin, intense counseling, and the power of God's word, he finds freedom to marry the beautiful young woman who falls in love with him.

Readers, did you hear? Not one but four new titles to watch for…

Give Us This Day -- Available Now.

A Hometown Fourth of July -- July 1, 2012

As We Forgive -- September 1, 2012

Deliver us -- April 1, 2013

You can find June at http://junefoster.blogspot.com/

http://www.infinitecharacters.com/

http://www.desertbreezepublishingcompany.com/  
June's books are available at Amazon Kindle and Barnes and Noble.

Contest hint: June writes almost everyday.

Trailer & Blurb Burp

or

http://www.youtube.com/user/TerrieZieber1953/featured

(Go to second video at the above link.)

Jess Colton can earn a PHD in computer science but can’t manage his own life.

Raised by a doting mother and controlling father, Jess battles against his addictive nature. When Jesus comes into his life, he trades one addiction for another—alcohol for food. His doctor warns him of his poor health as his weight soared past 300 pounds. Jess is baffled when the beautiful Holly Harrison comes into his life and declares her affection for him. What could she possibly see in him?

Holly Harrison has a past. But it catches up with her when she loses her leg and her unborn baby in one night as a result of a motorcycle accident. At this low point in her life, she finds strength through God and a relationship with Jesus Christ while she works as a dental hygienist. But now, no Christian man would want her so she avoids serious relationships. She doesn’t plan on falling in love with Jess Colton. She sees past his rolls of fat to the godly, tender man inside. When Jess drives a wedge between them, she loses all hope of having a future together.

Can Holly overcome her handicap? Does Jess find control over his eating and his life? Only God can provide the answers they need.

Web addresses:
http://junefoster.blogspot.com/
http://infinitecharacters.com/ (I share this one with Vanessa and 3 other writers.)
http://www.desertbreezepublishingcompany.com/

Ebooks can be downloaded at Amazon and Barnes and Nobles as well as Desert Breeze

Contest hint: June's husband removed a couch for June's writing space.