Contest with Shawna Williams

This weeks contest is a bit different, but there is a book to be won!
In order to win a chance to choose which book you win the rules are: Read Shawna's posts this week and vote for which excerpt you think is more romantic by leaving a comment on either one or both. --We (Shawna and I) are romance writers after all. But...Shawna is looking for your input so don't let her down. (Look at that face...How can anyone turn her down?)  If you have entered before, this is a new contest and you could win again or for the first time here on this blog!
You don't have to be a follower, but you better leave us an email addy so we can notify you and get you your book!

Website - http://shawnakwilliams.com/

Blog - http://shawnawilliams-oldsmobile.blogspot.com/

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shawna-K-Williams/236629884245

Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/shawnakwilliams

Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/shawnakwilliams/

Most of my author activity is through facebook and twitter and I'm very active on Pinterest as well.

Purchase Links

Desert Breeze

Ebook - http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-86/No-Other/Detail.bok

Print - https://www.createspace.com/3762193

Amazon -

Kindle edition - http://www.amazon.com/No-Other-ebook/dp/B003K15MY0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336172788&sr=1-1

Print - http://www.amazon.com/No-Other-Shawna-K-Williams/dp/1468164937/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1336172788&sr=1-1

Barnes&Noble

Nookbook - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-other-shawna-k-williams/1022584299?ean=9781936000531

Print - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-other-shawna-k-williams/1022584299?ean=9781468164930&format=paperback

Sunday Sizzle

In Plain Sight
Excerpt published by permission of the author, Michelle Sutton. http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com/


"Good." Randy rested his large hands on her waist and said, "I'm proud of you."

Her heart swelled and she blinked back tears. When was the last time a man had told her he was proud of her? She couldn't recall, but if anyone had, it was most likely her brother.

Randy stepped back and peered down at her. The tender expression he wore as he brushed the tears from her cheeks with his thumbs made her heart throb. She didn't know it was possible for a heart to do that until she felt it for the first time. Was this what love was supposed to feel like? Was it even possible to know real love after all that had happened in her short life?

She hoped so, but couldn't help being skeptical. "When you look at me like this, my heart makes funny feelings. I like them."

He grinned. "That's good to know. Have you ever felt that way before?"

Biting the inside of her cheek, she searched her memory. This throbbing was definitely a new thing. "I do not believe so. This feels like strange throb, but I do like this feeling."

"Good."

He studied her for a moment, then slowly bent down to bakni, kiss her. The sensation of his lips on hers was so soft and gentle that it took her breath away. No man had ever kissed her before with such tenderness that she felt cherished. And while this gentleness scared her because it was so unfamiliar, she decided she wanted to feel it again and again.



You can buy In Plain Sight HERE (sequel to Danger at the Door - above) http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-71/In-Plain-Sight/Detail.bok

Excerpt from DRY RAIN - unpublished. By M. Gardner

Thanks!

McKenna Gardner

Here is the excerpt from DRY RAIN:

Mr. Morgan said nothing as he held the majority of Annabelle's thick long hair in his left hand and pulled the little branches out with his right.

Finally, he was done. “That should do it,” he whispered softly as he slowly released her hair, gently brushing his fingers against the back of her neck as he let go. “You’re free.”

Annabelle's heart pounded powerfully in her chest as she slowly turned around to face him. She was overwhelmed with their closeness and felt drained of all focus. He was motionless, expressionless, as he watched every little movement she made. His arms were spread out, his white-knuckled hands clutching the branches on either side of them.

Annabelle stared at him. Those unforgettable piercing blue-gray eyes had held such sorrow once upon a time. Now they seemed to appear crystal-like with their brilliance. The way they captured her attention made her welcome the imprisonment. Regardless of his unreadable countenance, Annabelle felt she could detect a hungry anticipation in those scorching eyes.

She knew she would regret her actions as soon as they entered her mind, but it was no use resisting them. Any attempt was futile.

She stepped forward onto her tip-toes, grabbed either side of his lapels, and pulled him roughly down to her, kissing him hard on the mouth. Without enough time to close her eyes, she saw his burst wide with surprise. His reaction frightened her, causing her to instinctively release him. She knew she could have just made the biggest mistake of her life.

She moved to back away, but before her heels could even touch the ground, his arms held her fast. For a fraction of a second, his eyes searched hers intently. Then, with one swift movement, he grasped a handful of material at her back and pulled her against him. His mouth greeted hers with urgency.

His lips may have been smooth as silk, but they pressed demandingly on her own, filling her body with an awakening heat. He moved one hand to her hair where he entangled his fingers and deepened the kiss. An involuntary noise squeaked out of Annabelle’s throat. Her legs gradually failed to support her weight and she weakened pleasantly in his arms.

He held her firmly. Kissed her perfectly.

After a moment, he softened his kiss. The first time his lips left hers, she experienced a sense of loss. He kissed her gently on the forehead and brought his hands to her arms in an effort to steady her. They trembled against her skin.

Legacy of Lies - Kiss

They were alone.


Her pulse quickened. He was close enough for her to smell his slightly salty, woodsy scent. She squeezed her eyes shut and took a deep breath.

His husky voice broke into her silent revere. "You worried me back there. I don't knowwhat I would've done if you'd been hurt."

Her gaze met and held his for a moment, but she quickly looked away. Sarah plucked atall blade of grass and rolled it between her fingers. The emotion in his voice stirred the butterflies in her stomach. She straightened her posture. "I made it out okay."

A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, but he remained silent.

Sarah lowered her head. "What I meant to say was thank you for saving me," shewhispered.

"You're welcome."

Sarah smiled. "That bull sure did give me a scare. I'm kinda surprised my heart didn'texplode from sheer terror."

He cleared his throat. "Well, now you know how I felt. When I heard you screaming, myheart nearly stopped." His eyes locked on the dancing flames.

Sarah swallowed hard, the tension thick enough to be palatable. She eased a little closerto him. Suddenly, he turned to her. His face was only inches away.

For a moment, she openly gazed into his eyes. They were deep brown with tiny flecks ofgold. Pools of mystery she longed to solve.

"I'm sorry, Jim. I just saw that baby get stuck and I didn't want to see it trampled." Herhands trembled now. She needed to look away. She needed to break this hold he had on her. She couldn't.

"I know. You're a sweet girl." He spoke so softly she nearly missed the words. Hisfingers traced her jaw and then lifted her chin.

To her surprise, her lips eagerly met his.

 
Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-273/A-Legacy-of-Lies/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332042156&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-legacy-of-lies-stephenia-mcgee/1107713261?ean=2940014338950

Also available for download from iBooks for the iPad

Legacy of Lies - Reviews

When I first started reading this novel, I fired off an email to the author (an online friend) and told her that this was a fantastic book. And I was serious. She starts with a murky mystery and it doesn’t let up until the very end. In fact, as I read the last few pages, I realized what this book was: this is an Inspirational Gothic novel. Think Castle of Otranto and The Turn of the Screw in a cowboy romance. Fan-TAS-tic.


The story follows Jim, a ranch hand with a history he refuses to discuss, Sarah, a frustrated student sinking in debt, Jonathan, a billionaire with a heart of steel and Elizabeth, a lost soul who can’t seem to remember who she is or why she keeps coming back to a strange little shop that is always open in the middle of New York City. They are all linked in one tragic tale of love, rejection, redemption and supernatural intervention.

This book has it all: a nice quick plot, a massive castle, cowboys, a dark mystery, a cold seductress and a story that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished the book. If you’re looking for one good read, I definitely recommend this book.

Patty FroeseNtihemuka, Author

********************

I knew it was a Christian romance when I started reading. I didn't know it would have such unexpected twists and turns. Desperately needing to know what would happen next, I couldn't put it down until I reached the last page. I've been looking for something that isn't "formula," and found it here. "A Legacy of Lies" has put Stephenia H. McGee on my must-buy list.


Judy T – Amazon reader

Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-273/A-Legacy-of-Lies/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332042156&sr=8-1

Barns and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-legacy-of-lies-stephenia-mcgee/1107713261?ean=2940014338950

Also available for download from iBooks for the iPad

A Legacy of Lies

EXCERPT used by permission of Stephenia H. McGee
Excerpt is unedited.


Jim settled into the brushed leather of his ranching saddle. The saddle had a deep seat and the fenders turned the stirrups out perfectly. He was as comfortable here as most men were in a recliner in front of the television. He tried to keep his mind off Sarah's emerald eyes. No luck.

Focus on something else.

The deep indigos and golden streaks had faded from the sky, the sun now sat high enough over the white mountain peaks to start warming the air. A clear sky promised a peaceful day. It would be nice to spend the day--

What the...

A streak of color blurred past him. Ciervo lurched underneath him. Jim cursed under his breath, trying to steady his spooked mount. Up ahead he saw clods of soft earth flying up from behind galloping hooves. Panic set in.

Runaway horse.

Sarah.

Jim squeezed his legs as he leaned into the saddle and lowered his head. Ciervo dipped his haunches and rocketed forward. Within a stride his horse extended to a full gallop, his hooves barely hitting the ground. In mere seconds, they were gaining on the other horse. A sorrel.

Jim flung the reins around his body. The leather ends popped into Ciervo's thick hindquarters. The horse lowered his head and surged. Amazingly, the powerful buckskin found another gear. Jim's hat flew off, the leather strap catching hard against his neck. The wind buffeted his face. He squinted his eyes, leaned forward in the saddle, and gripped the reins with both hands. His body was now moving in rhythm with the horsepower beneath him.

Ciervo heaved in massive amounts of air. Pounding hooves and the horse's deep snorting breaths drowned the startled cries behind them. Ciervo's tail whipped through the air. Jim urged him on. Ten more feet. Five. He came even with the sorrel and reached for the reins, his fingers barely grazing the leather. He leaned further and Ciervo followed Jim's lead, nearly brushing against the other horse as the two animals raced across the valley. He reached out again and finally grabbed the runaway horse's rein.

"Hang on." Jim shouted above the deafening thunder of pounding hooves.

In one fluid motion, he planted his feet in the stirrups, rocked back in the saddle, and jerked Sarah's left rein down to his thigh. Sassy's head jerked, her neck curving until her muzzle met her shoulder. The mare's front feet planted into the soft earth, her massive weight tearing loose the grass underneath. As Sarah crashed into the saddle horn, a whoosh of air escaped her lips. Ciervo lowered his haunches and buried down to his hocks in the dirt. They came jerking to a halt. For a second no one moved. Jim let out his breath.

He looked at Sarah. She bent over the saddle horn, gasping for air. Her face splotchy red. When she caught her breath, she glared at him, her eyes nearly shooting daggers.

"What do you think you're doing? Are you crazy?" Sarah yelled at him and snatched her rein from his hand. Jim's jaw dropped. He could only stare at her. He'd just risked his life to save hers and she yelled at him? His fingers tightened on his reins, clenching into tight fists.

He knew it. Nothing but trouble.

Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-273/A-Legacy-of-Lies/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332042156&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-legacy-of-lies-stephenia-mcgee/1107713261?ean=2940014338950

Also available for download from iBooks for the iPad

Sharing Hidden Paths with author JoAnn Carter

Hidden Paths – Young Adult Inspirational Romance


Julie Hemmingway, a recent college graduate, is preparing to leave for the mission field. When she meets Adam Jacobs, her well-organized plans begin to go awry. Will she fight to hold onto her own agenda, or open her heart to a new – yet, Hidden Path?

Staying in Vermont on the family farm wasn’t what JULIE HEMMINGWAY had envisioned for her life. After all, she had just spent two years at the community college in preparation to join a mission agency to use her nursing skills overseas. However, those plans quickly change when her father suffers a massive heart attack and dies. Out of necessity, she stays at home to help her mom manage the farm.

To help make ends meet, Julie accepts a new job at a construction company where many unexpected things happen, including working with the handsome, ADAM JACOBS. Will Julie learn that she can trust in God and the path He has planned for her life – even when it looks totally different than what she expected?

Favorite Review:

Over on Amazon, there are only two reviews posted so far, but both are special to me. Let me share them with you and then my thoughts will follow...

Donna Basinow wrote the first. She said, "What a great story - and so true of how we serve God! How often do we serve Him by doing something we think He wants without seeking Him in prayer first? Usually it's only to find out it's OUR choice, not what He wants.

Julie finds that through prayer and listening for God's will that she can find the peace and comfort in knowing what God's will really is for her. But she still has doubts that her prayers are heard, that she's really following His will.

And Adam has a lot to more to learn than he lets on. As they help each other in different ways it's amazing how God teaches them both the lessons they need to draw closer to Him - as well as God's plan for the two of them.

It's amazing to see how God works in the lives of these two - just like He works in the background of our lives."

The second is, by Tanya Stowe... "In Hidden Paths, JoAnn Carter tackles two of Christianity's most difficult questions: Am I doing God's will or my own and why do bad things happen to good people? Ms. Carter sends main character, Julie Hemmingway, into life's most difficult situations. When Julie's life plans are abruptly changed, she leans on God...and her new found friend and employer, Adam. But when crisis strikes again, even Adam can't find his way and Julie has only her faith to guide her. During Julie's journey Ms. Carter takes us through tragedy, pain, romance and even a new born faith. It's a joy to see how Julie meets those challenges head-on with her courage and faith intact."

--

Why the reviews meant so much to me...

I think this reader's note that you'll find at the end of Hidden Paths will explain it all. J

Well, here we are at the close of another story... Hidden Paths. I have to chuckle a bit at the irony of the situation. You see, that's the perfect title for my own personal journey that the Lord has been guiding me through.

Although I have other books in circulation, this was the very first story I ever drafted fifteen years ago. I started writing on a whim. Don't ask me why. In fact, have you ever watched Night at the Museum? The first time we saw that movie I cracked up. I am so like that museum director. Some days it seems as if I can't put a complete thought -- let alone sentence -- together to save my life. Couple that with dyslexia and grammar and spelling that would make any English major cringe and... yup, that's me. Yet, here I find myself, walking down the path that once seemed so elusive and hidden to me.

Quite a few years after I wrote this book, I went to a writer's retreat. I prayed and prayed that God would show me what He wanted me to do and give me direction. I knew writing was something I enjoyed but was this what God wanted me to do? I struggled with that, and to be honest, still do on occasion.

I walked away from that weekend with as many questions as I arrived with. I was so discouraged. Didn't God hear me? I wanted to follow His will for my life, yet felt like He was far away and unwilling to give me the direction I so desperately craved.

He had heard my prayers, yet I was too close to the situation to see that He had been, was, and still is guiding me. I stand amazed as I think about this now... God has led me to friends who had a passion for the craft of writing and the gift of encouragement. I've been blessed with a family who supports my writing endeavors, and I've learned a ton of stuff along the way... I could go on, but I'm sure you get the gist.

What I've come to realize is I don't need to have everything figured out. I serve an awesome God who knows what's best for me. Sometimes I may not particularly care for what needs to be done. The road may seem long and hard and the mountains too big to scale. Yet, God loves me too much to let me settle for the easy road where I would forget where true strength is found.

Perhaps like me, you have been struggling with direction in your own life. I would like to challenge you to place your hand (and your life) in God's hands and allow Him to plot your course. You might find yourself in for a crazy ride -- on a path, like Julie, that you would have never imagined.

I'd love to hear what you think of this story too!

Purchase links ~

Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-235/Hidden-Paths-JoAnne-Carter/Detail.bok

(On Sale for 20% off) CBD: http://www.christianbook.com/hidden-paths-ebook-joann-carter/9781612521190/pd/24497EB?item_code=WW&netp_id=979803&event=ESRCG&view=details

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006LTLUE4

Also available at B&N and other e-book retailers.

Thanks for having me, Shaunna!

~JoAnn

Momentous Moment

This Moment is shared by Donna Weaver.

Background:
Lyn has some emotional baggage and didn't expect to care for Braedon so quickly--and literally ran away and avoided him for days after he tried to move their relationship beyond friendship. This was their first meeting after she fled. Now, the reconciliation takes place later in the book and in an entirely different way. Ms. Practical and Miss Romance are battling voices she has in her head.


The moment:
I was on the floor in a full split, when Braedon tottered in. I ducked my head, my heart pounding, hoping he wouldn’t see me down on the floor, but he paused at the entrance next to the aerobics area. I didn’t hear him move on, and curiosity finally got to me; I looked up to see what he was doing and saw him studying me. I wasn’t sure what to think of his expression.

Flushing when our eyes met, I dropped my head back down on my leg. With my peripheral vision I saw that he continued to stand there for a moment before moving on. I glanced up when I heard him move away and saw him going to the treadmills.

I scooted farther away from the entrance, but I could still see him. If he turned around he would be able to see me. I hurried through the rest of my stretches, really sorry now for the four missed days.

When I was finished, facing away from the treadmill area, I hurriedly put my things back in my bag. It was hard to keep my footing, but I finally got everything packed and turned around.

Braedon stood directly before me, his feet slightly spread for stability.

I started and then staggered when the ship rolled. As I lost my balance, he grabbed me around the waist and pulled me close to help steady me. I believe it was a combination of all the stress I’d been under combined with the surprise of suddenly being in his arms. I lost my head and said the first thing that came to my mind.

“You are so hot,” I murmured.

His eyes opened wide, and my jaw dropped as I realized I’d said it aloud.

“I didn’t say that!” I exclaimed frantically, pulling away from him.

Braedon grabbed me back again. “Oh, no you don’t! You can’t say something like that and then just walk away.” He kissed me. It wasn’t forceful or pushy, but rather gentle and tentative.

There was now a war raging inside me. Ms Practical shrieked at me to run, to get away. Miss Romantic shouted that I should put my arms around him and kiss him and touch those incredible shoulders and arms. I was frozen with indecision.

When I didn’t pull away, he kissed me again with more confidence.

My heart was now beating so hard I wondered if I wasn’t in the throes of a panic attack. I felt like someone had linked me to an outlet that was sending electricity through the marrow of my bones. My fingers and toes even tingled. I needed air ...

“Stop,” I finally gasped.

He did instantly, studying me.

“I’m not interested in a shipboard romance,” I whispered.

“Neither am I.” He said firmly and kissed me again—thoroughly.

“Stop,” I pleaded, breathlessly.

Once more he quit immediately, shifting his legs to keep balance as the ship rolled again. “Have you had breakfast yet?” he asked.

Ms Practical, Miss Romantic, and I paused in confusion. “Is that a trick question?” I asked.

Braedon chuckled and kissed me again. “No. Let’s go get cleaned up and have something to eat. We need to talk.”

I’m sure my blood pressure went through the roof.

Ms Practical and Miss Romantic were duking it out again inside my head. It must have shown on my face.

“Really,” Braedon said firmly. “We need to talk ... and please promise me you won’t disappear again.”

Miss Romantic did a flying roundhouse kick to Ms Practical’s face and left her lying in the dust, throwing her arms up in victory.

I nodded.

Sunday Sizzle

Danger at the Door by: Michelle Sutton
Excerpt published by permission.

Her hands fisted. "I… know, but I can’t seem to shake this… terror I feel." Tears stung her eyes.


"I’m so tired of this--" Choking on a sob, she covered her face.

His warm hands covered hers, and he tugged her fingers away from her eyes. "You must. I help you. I pray strav not make you sick."

That made her cry harder, and she struggled against him, but he wouldn’t let go of her hands.

She shook her head.

"Laney, listen for my words. You must give God strav. Is not okay for carry burden on shoulders. Jesus ask for heavy load, want you give strav for Him." With a gentle smile, he dipped his head down. "So I must cheer. One…" he whispered, "two…"

His proximity made her feel wild inside. She shrugged off her fear, basking in his nearness instead. When he reached three, she forced thoughts of Jovana from her mind, and turned her face until her mouth met his. Salt from her own tears had wet her lips.

The kiss started out tentative, soft, and gentle… When she relaxed her mouth to indulge further, he pulled away.

"We must go now." He ruffled his wavy hair with both hands and exhaled. "Is not good kiss…"

The words pierced her heart. No doubt he’d remembered his feelings for Jovana, and he didn't want to muddy the waters. While she’d lapped up his affection, he’d found the contact unfulfilling. The idea of never kissing him again made her chest ache, but she wouldn't force herself on him, either. Not when he loved someone else. She bit her lip and glanced up, her cheeks heating.

"You’re right. No more kissing."

"Is not what--" Bojan closed his eyes, groaning low in his throat. He cradled her face, kissing her firmly. When he released her mouth, she drew in a shaky breath.

Wow.

Licking the salt from her lips, she stared. Had he changed his mind about her? Tossed his feelings for Jovana aside? Her throat tightened and she whispered, "Why’d you do that?"

A loud sigh escaped him. He spoke slowly as if to make sure she understood every word, "I say for many times. I want bakni, for kiss you." He cracked a broad grin and slid his hands into his back pockets. "Is also very nice. I must bakni. Is good for heart."

He paused and tapped his chest, swaggering like a rogue.

Strange fluttering gyrations moved her heart as she drank in the dusky hue in his eyes. Without commenting, she slid onto the leather seat of his Hummer. Pondering the depth of her response to kiss, she wondered if it would be wise to do that again. Especially with his old flame in the picture.



You can buy Danger at the Door HERE http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-29/Danger-at-the-Door/Detail.bok

Sizzling Saturday

Congratulations to Donna Weaver! Donna will receive an e-book of Kidnapped. Enjoy!

Now for some kisses...
Excerpt is unedited and used with author's permission.)

He turned around and stared at her, and she realized his eyes had changed since that first day when he arrested her. They had been dead, frightening, not caring, but now they were as filled with life and emotions as anyone's. Still, his voice was icy, "I'm a high ranking officer of the corps. I Do Not Like People."


She couldn't tell if the idea offended or scared him. Either way, she had never been good at keeping her mouth shut, so now she smiled and teased, "Really?" before adding, more seriously, "You know, that sounds very lonely to me."

Travis shook his head in frustration, and looked like he wanted to throw something at the wall. She wondered why she didn't just leave: staying out of his way for a while would probably be a good idea. He exclaimed heatedly, "I'm not supposed to be lonely. I'm not supposed to need people or care even for myself, so why do I care about you?"

He started pacing, but the room wasn't all that big, and the second time he passed he grabbed her arms, tugged her closer, and kissed her almost painfully hard. Releasing his grip immediately, he turned away, mumbling, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that. Maybe you should go to your room for a bit."

Patricia hesitated, thinking he was insane and she was going crazy too. Maybe she really was sitting in a padded cell somewhere, wearing one of those shirts with very long arms tied to her back, and all this was happening in her mind.

Even while thinking these things, she took a couple of steps closer to him and said softly. "No. It's alright."

Wrapping her arms loosely around his neck, she added, "But be gentle, okay," and pressed her lips against his. Touching him seemed very wrong and forbidden, and she was surprised to find she wanted it very much.

Website: http://www.hammarblad.com/
Maria's blog link is: http://www.scifiromance.info/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahammarblad
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Purchase link... It will be available here: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-292/Kidnapped-Maria-Hammarblad/Detail.bok
but not until May 11.

Fickle Friday

Maria isn't fickle when it comes to real life!

I do not have a bucket list, but I do have some quirky interests if you need extra stuff. I play the bass, and played in a few different rock bands “back home.” I like to drive off-road and have done parts of the Sweden Off-Road Tour. It is a yearly event featuring around 400 cars from all over Europe, and goes all through Sweden. It’s around 900 miles (I think) with stops for off-roading.


Hmm, what else… I volunteer at a dog rescue. Oh, I have a good one. I met my husband while roleplaying on Myspace. It was kind of… writing stories together online, in character, and we started talking out of character and really hit it off. After a few months, we decided I would fly over to the US and meet him, and everyone back home thought I would be murdered and dumped in a ditch somewhere, hahaha! I said, “C’mon, I’ve always wanted to go to Florida. I have a cell phone, credit card, and my passport. If it doesn’t work out I’ll rent a car and have a week’s nice vacation.” The custom’s guy on the airport shared my friends’ sentiment. He said, “Oh wow, I shouldn’t let you enter the country. You’ll be dead in a week.” It worked out, and I went over a few more times to see him, and I plunged in and moved late 2008. 

Book Blurb

It's a late winter night when Patricia Risden heads home in her car, on a road she's driven many times before. She doesn't have a care in the world, that is, until a man appears from nowhere, right in front of her.

The next thing she knows is being a prisoner of the unscrupulous Alliance Commander Travis 152; an intimidating man who demands information and complete cooperation. Travis soon realizes his mistake; Tricia doesn't know anything, and she is incapable of even getting a glass of water from the ship's computer.

Infamous for being a ruthless executioner, conditioned since childhood to feel nothing besides fear and pain, he still deems her harmless, and finds enough pity for the lost young woman to let her out of the cell; a decision that will change both their lives forever.

Website: http://www.hammarblad.com/
Maria's blog link is: http://www.scifiromance.info/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahammarblad
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Purchase link... It will be available here: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-292/Kidnapped-Maria-Hammarblad/Detail.bok

but not until May 11.

Trailer and Talking with Maria Sadowski

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Today we are talking with Maria Sadowski, author of Kidnapped, a romantic science fiction due to be released May 11th thru Desert Breeze Publishing. So where's home for you?

I’m originally from Sweden and moved to Florida in late 2008. Today I live in the Tampa Bay area with my husband Mike and our three rescue dogs. I like it here, I like the weather and all the sunshine, but I do long for Sweden from time to time. I have always been writing and wanting to make books; when I was a little girl I made my mom staple bundles of colored papers together to resemble books. I was too little to be able to read or write, so I drew suns in them, and declared them to be the “Sun book.” They were all about the sun, and I bet she still has a box of them sitting in the basement. I guess it was the start of my fascination with space. (I also declared I wasn’t supposed to be on this planet. I told her it was all a giant mistake, and that my real family would come to bring me home to my own planet at any moment. Poor mom!)

I don't doubt that your mom is wonderful. So what do you do when you aren't creating "Sun books" or science fiction?

When I’m not writing I enjoy playing bass. I used to play in a couple of rock bands back home, but I haven’t made an effort to find a band since I moved to the US – I don’t have the time to rehearse on a regular basis. I still play, but nowadays it’s mostly for the dogs.

It seems a lot of authors have other creative talents. I've always dreamed (okay when I was young) of being in a band. Tell us more about growing up overseas.

I learned British English in school as a little girl, and one of my biggest challenges when it comes to writing for an American audience is the spelling. I write colour, labour, harbour, realise, defence, and a number of words like those with British spelling.

Thank goodness for the red underlining in Microsoft Word! I get a lot of red in my writing but I think is from my ffatt ffingers! Tell me, what do you love about your latest book?

“Kidnapped” is romantic science fiction. I enjoy the setting of space, and I love the characters. Travis is a very reluctant hero, and even when he decides to try to do the right thing it takes him a while to get the hang of it. I’m also very fond of the bad guy – or gal – Veronica; she’s the epitome of determination and will stop at nothing to get things her way.

I love the name Travis for a hero. Actually I think that is because I left my Travis in quite a bind in one of my upcoming novels. Funny, he doesn't think he's much of a hero either … Tell us about your all time favorite character (of your creating.) Is he/she modeled after a real person?

My all-time favorite character is Stephan Forks in the Goddess’s Saga. He’s not modeled after a real person, but he’s a big personality. He has his flaws, some of them rather big, but he always comes through for the heroine and makes things right. I know exactly what all the characters in those books look like in my head, and to me, writing about them is revisiting old friends.

(Me smiling reminiscently) friends that we sometimes miss. How does it feel when you write?

I am so happy when I write, it becomes an obsession. I enter my own little world populated by my characters, and I don’t want to do anything else. Everything in normal life becomes unwelcome distractions keeping me away from my imaginary friends… I am very fortunate to have an understanding husband; he knows I’ll snap out of it eventually.

Ahh. That is why they are friends, they make you happy, just as mine do me. Do you get ideas for your stories from places you visit, or do you visit places to flesh out your stories?

I get ideas for my stories from everything I see around me. I have an old SUV, and recently when I drove to the supermarket I heard a weird rumbling noise. Looking around I couldn’t see anything outside the car, and the only explanation I could think of was my muffler springing a sudden leak, or why not the entire engine deciding to fall out of the car. It turned out to be a big motorbike sneaking around in my blind spot – I couldn’t even see the guy from my window until I got a red light and he came up next to me. We were going in the same direction and it stirred my imagination, so when I came home I started typing away on a new story where this happens, but the guy on the bike follows the girl in the car… Mwuahahaha!

You are so deliciously wicked … What heat rating would you give your novel?

I would rate “Kidnapped” as Warm –it's cute, but doesn’t contain any explicit love scenes.

Is that how you would classify your life?

Yes, my life is warm too. I am very fortunate to have a romantic husband who impromptu brings me flowers and presents when I least expect it.

Yum! Does he give lessons? Oh we better ask him instead of you. Where can we find you?

Website: http://www.hammarblad.com/
Blog: http://www.hammarblad.blogspot.com/
Maria's blog link is: http://www.scifiromance.info/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahammarblad
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Purchase link... It will be available here: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-292/Kidnapped-Maria-Hammarblad/Detail.bok
 but not until May 11.

Tickle Tease Tuesday

(Excerpt is unedited and used by permission of the author.)

Kidnapped

Everyone chosen for the corps was taught at young ages never to feel bored, and never to be lonely. Travis could spend years alone in his craft without anything to do or anyone to talk to. And still, here he was, chatting with a prisoner from a planet so remote most people had forgotten about it.


Giving the young woman a thoughtful glance, he decided he knew all he needed to, more than he had ever wanted to, and it was time to go. He rose up agilely and was surprised to hear her voice call out, "No, wait, please don't leave me alone!"

It was tempting to look back, but he didn't; he marched out into the corridor with its endless rows of cells. A voice from his memory echoed in his head. It was his commanding officer snarling, "Such a pathetic little creature."

He heard a woman's scream, one of many imprints in his brain that would never go away, and his commander's quiet laugh. Through the commotion in his mind, he could also hear the real but muffled sound of Patricia crying on the other side of the wall. Shaking his head made the imagined noises go away, but the weeping was still there. He turned abruptly and entered the cell again. "Don't do that."

Patricia lifted her face up and sniffled, "Don't do what?"

He felt a frown forming, "The thing with your eyes."

She was trying to shout at him, but her voice cracked, and he felt an unfamiliar twinge of sympathy when he heard the forlorn, "I'll stop if you take me home. I didn't do anything."

Shrugging slightly, he answered amiably, "I know. You're really useless, aren't you?"

Website: http://www.hammarblad.com/
Maria's blog link is: http://www.scifiromance.info/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahammarblad
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Purchase link... It will be available here: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-292/Kidnapped-Maria-Hammarblad/Detail.bok

but not until May 11.

Contesting Monday

This week the spotlight is on Maria Sadowski and her new release Kidnapped.
Being the awesomely wonderful person Maria is, she is offering a e-copy of her book as a prize this week. Don't mistake this one for the classic! They are not the same.

How to win:

1) Become a follower here if you haven't already. If you are already a follower, leave a comment.
2) Become a follower of Maria's
3) If you would like an additional chance to win, leave a comment !
4) Tweet, Tell a friend on Facebook or email.
5) Maria's links are below let us know where you have shared for extra entries!
Website: http://www.hammarblad.com/
Blog: http://www.hammarblad.blogspot.com/
Maria's blog link is: http://www.scifiromance.info/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahammarblad
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Purchase link... It will be available here: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-292/Kidnapped-Maria-Hammarblad/Detail.bok
but not until May 11.

My inspiration for this week!

http://www.wimp.com/casanovaprank/

I just love this little guy! How many amores did you pick up at his age?

A glimpse at what's coming.

You'll never think of being kidnapped quite the same way again.

Winner!

Congratulations to this weeks winner, Wendy Jones. Wendy wins a copy of The Keeper's Calling, by this weeks guest, Kelly Nelson. Wendy, please contact me with your physical address so that I can forward it to Kelly and she can get your prize to you.
Congrats and thank you everyone for your comments this week. Visit again as I'm sure yet another guest in the future will offer a similiar prize.

Sizzling Saturday

Today's kiss is from Kelly Nelson and the Keeper's Calling.

I watched Ellie take one step away. Then I said, “Wait!” I reached out to grab her arm and turned her to face me again. I stepped closer and tipped her chin up, forcing her to look at me. I looked into the depths of her eyes and tried to see why it was so important for her to be here, for her to leave me. But I found no answers in her pained expression.


Ignoring the pain in my back, I lifted my left arm and held her face softly in my hands. I gently traced the line of her cheekbone with my thumb. My fingers moved behind her neck, and I leaned forward to brush her lips with mine, gently at first, testing the waters.

“I’ve wanted to do that since the first night I saw you,” I whispered.

I turned so my back sheltered her from the icy wind. Before she could tell me to stop, I kissed her again. She kissed me back at first, but the kiss held no promise of a future together. It felt more like a kiss goodbye.

Her body stiffened the moment before she looked down. She placed her hand on my chest and pushed me away, not looking me in the eyes. “It’s cold. I should go. Goodbye, Chase.”

She turned and hurried toward the white house. Stunned, I watched as she opened the gate, then walked up the porch steps and through the front door, never once looking back. I think deep down I expected her to change her mind. Slowly, I turned into the wind. And for the first time in more years than I could remember, I cried.

Fickle Friday with more from Kelly Nelson

Are there any fun tid-bits about this story you can share with us? I used my own home and location as the building blocks for my setting. My son and daughter attend Hillsboro High School, the same as Chase Harper in my novel.


Also, the lecture Chase Harper refers to in the first chapter of my book is the same one I’ve heard my husband give to my kids.

Do you have a link where we can access the book discussion questions? A collection of discussion questions is available on my website @ http://www.kellynelsonauthor.com/

What is the purchase link (and cost)?

The Keeper’s Calling is available on Amazon for $12.31 at the following link: http://www.amazon.com/Keepers-Calling-Saga-Kelly-Nelson/product-reviews/1599928442/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

Let's get Personal with Kelly Nelson

Where were you born? St. Paul, Minnesota

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? I would stay right where I am. I may not have the fanciest house or the biggest barn, but I have a covered arena, a roof over my head, and the location is beautiful. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

What are you most passionate about, other than writing? I love my two horses—Texas and Fancy. From the time I was three I wished for a horse on every birthday candle blowing, every first star I saw and every wishbone I broke. When I was 16 my dad finally gave in and bought me Misty, a thoroughbred mare and ultimately the mother of Texas. She had come off the race track and loved to run. More than once she took the bit in her mouth and ran full-speed down the canal frontage road while I hung on for dear life. She was a lot of horse and I learned through trial and error how to be a horseperson. I’ve now owned her foal, Texas, longer than I’ve known my husband and can hardly bear the thought of someday losing her.

My sister had a horse named Fancy but my horse's name was Silky Susie. See we have a bit in common! Name some of your most favorite things. I love looking at the moon, walking on the beach, exploring a new trail on horseback, going on a date with my husband and chocolate.

Let's find out a bit about Kelly's writing.

What or who inspires you to write? I believe in divine assistance and the power of prayer. Although the motivation to write came from within me, the inspiration regarding what to write came in direct answer to prayer. I knew before I started my first novel that I didn’t have the natural ability to do it on my own and knelt in prayer to ask for help.

Very nicely said. Why did you begin writing? I simply wanted to see if I could—you know, actually put together 80,000 words and have them make sense and be interesting to read. I had wanted to write a book since I was 15 years old. Over the years I had started and abandoned two different novels. With my 39th birthday looming on the horizon, I figured I’d better get going on writing that novel if I wanted any hope of making it a reality.

Are you looking at my notes for an interview in August? No cheating! What do you find most rewarding about writing? The most rewarding thing is the feeling of excitement and exhilaration I get from knowing I created something. The year I spent writing The Keeper’s Saga was the happiest year of my life—I was healthier and had more energy than at any other time. I love completing a novel and then reading it through from start to finish for the first time.

I like your reason. You truly seem to write for the love of writing. When is your next book due out, and what’s it about? The sequel to The Keeper’s Calling is scheduled to be released in September 2012 and follows Chase Harper’s life and adventures as a Keeper through the second semester of his senior year.

How did you come up with your premise for the Keeper's Calling? I always knew I wanted to incorporate time travel in my story. I started out working on a middle-grade novel idea, but I quickly realized that with the amount of time I would be spending thinking about it, I wanted to be daydreaming about someone a little more attractive than a 13 yr old kid. The answer to my dilemma came in the form of Chase Harper—my studly high school senior. Additionally, in my experience the most enjoyable thing in life is falling in love, so of course I had to give Chase a love interest—Ellie Williams the girl he rescues in 1863.

Tell us more.
The first chapter to The Keeper’s Calling is posted on my publisher’s blog:

http://www.walnutspringspress.blogspot.com/2012/03/keepers-calling-first-chapter.html

Cover and blurb for "the Keeper's Calling"

 They come from two different worlds. One fateful discovery will bring them together. Neither of their lives will ever be the same.

Chase Harper’s to-do list for senior year never included “fall in love” and “fight for your life,” but things rarely go as planned. Tarnished gold and resembling a pocket watch, the counter he finds in a cave during the summer of 2011 will forever change the course of his life, leading him to the beautiful Ellie Williams and unlocking a power beyond his wildest imagination.

In 1863, Ellie Williams completes school in Boston and returns to the Utah Territory only to discover that her grandfather and his counter, a treasured family heirloom, are missing. When Ellie is abducted and told she must produce the counter or die, an unexpected rescuer comes to her aid.

Tease ... yeah and a Tickle too!

Bet ya'll thought we weren't going to have a giveaway this week... gotcha.
This week we are changing contest rules and wanted to get your attention. The rules are:
1) Be sure you are a follower here.
2) "Like" Kelly's Keeper's Saga Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/#!/TheKeepersSaga
3) Leave a comment here telling us you have done both.
4) Extra chance to win--- invite a friend to visit and join the contest. For every friend that mentions you (First and Last name) in a comment, you both recieve an extra chance to win.
Sound fun? Yeah, we thought so, too.
Winner will be announced on Saturday of this week.
Good luck and check back often for more chances to win!

Now for today's tease from The Keeper's Calling.
(Excerpt used by permission.)

I stared back at her. My mind churned. Why was she asking about the date? Her clothes. The way she talked. The vaqueros, as she called them. The lack of people around. The only answer I came up with seemed too unrealistic. Surely my imagination had run wild. Or maybe I still suffered from the effects of heatstroke. I quickly dismissed the idea. “It was yesterday—August 24, 2011.”


Although still far away, the Indians were making slow but steady progress toward us. I watched her, waiting for her response. She dejectedly sat down and pulled out the pistol. Her elbows rested on her knees. She leaned forward. “Give me your hand.”

I held my hand out. She touched the gold device to my finger, and immediately the light turned on inside. “So you’re it, then,” she said. “The new Keeper. It was supposed to be me, you know. Grandfather talked for years about giving it to me. The counter will only light up for its true Keeper.”

Closing it, I pushed the gold device toward her and pulled my hand away. “Well, I’m giving it to you, so don’t feel bad. It’s yours now.”

She shook her head and pointed the gun at me. “It’s not that easy, Mr. Harper. You can’t give it away. Once you’ve used it, you’re the Keeper of the counter. Until you’re dead, that is. It won’t work for anyone else. I’d have to kill you if I wanted to use it.”

I eyed the gun barrel waving in front of my face. “Great,” I muttered. Stepping away from her, I pulled my baseball cap off and gave my sweaty head a good scratch. Maybe she was crazy. It couldn’t be a good sign that she openly talked about killing me. I would have to take the gun from her. I imagined I could easily overpower her and get it, but my timing would need to be impeccable. A split second was all she needed to pull the trigger.

Hooked? Yeah, me too.

This week we're meeting Kelly Nelson.

Kelly Nelson was raised in Orem, Utah, and now resides in Cornelius, Oregon, in the heart of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She enjoys life on a ten-acre horse property with her husband, four children, and, of course, lots of horses. Kelly has a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University. She worked as a certified public accountant for several years before opting to stay home and raise a family. As a young girl, she was an avid reader and had a passion for creative writing. Her travels to England, France, Egypt, Israel, West Indies, Mexico, and across the United States sparked a love of history, adventure, and exotic places. This led to the inspiration behind her debut novel, The Keeper’s Calling, the first book in The Keeper’s Saga. Learn more about Kelly and her upcoming books at kellynelsonauthor.com

The Keeper’s Calling is Kelly's debut novel and the first book in The Keeper’s Saga. It is young adult speculative fiction—in essence a romantic adventure story that defies the bounds of time.

The book is published by a small LDS Publisher and its content is appropriate for all ages. People who are 8 to 85 have enjoyed The Keeper’s Calling.-

Sizzling Saturday

First order of business --- drum roll please --- and the winner of a hard copy of Earthbound by this weeks guest, Theresa Sneed, is: Peggy Urry! Congratulations!

And from ... Earthbound.
No one asked Sophie to stand up against the dissenters. It just seemed like the right thing to do. She smiled as Saunders kissed the woman lightly on her lips, and wondered if she could ever be so lucky. That’s when she saw him again—Mr. Piercing Blue Eyes. It happened so fast, she had no time to react. He grabbed her and threw her to the ground covering her with his strong body. Even as she fell, she looked into his eyes, still filled with anger, but now mingled with concern. He cradled her head as it hit the hard ground and then rolled off her and jumped back up. What? It confused and embarrassed her. Why had he done that? The answer came quick as she saw the tiny energy emissions explode against his shoulders. She scooted back and fumbled with her guard-screen as Spencer pulled more energy emissions out of his pocket and tossed them into the air. Sophie gasped—her body shook all over. If those energy emissions had hit my face—she pushed the unpleasant thought aside and scurried to her feet, but the dissenters had launched their final attack for the day and had scattered.

Fickle Friday filled with Theresa's info

Theresa's main website is http://www.theresasneed.com/
Purchase link for Amazon Kindle and paperback are http://www.amazon.com/No-Angel-Theresa-Sneed/dp/1935217968/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_i
Other places to purchase will be Deseret Book, Latter Day Cottage, Barnes & Noble


Okay, so if Earthbound goes to press the second week of April, it'll still take another two-three weeks to get to Amazon and the rest...

I have a new marketing post at http://theresasneed.com/seo-quake-a-great-tool

Oh and folks, this last link may prove to be my personal favorite!

Thirsty 4 Thursday

I am a writer—yes! I love what I do, but I am equally, a marketer too. My hope is that one day, I’ll be able to say, I’m a 90% writer and 10% marketer, but realistically, I do not see that happening for a few years while I build up my author platform. That in mind, I have been working as a 90% marketer for the past two months as I learn the ropes about marketing my books. However, I can say that I’m close to getting back to what I love best. In the meantime, I read, and research, and improve. My latest venture is my two week old website, which because of my efforts receives about 200 visitors a day. The secret is using the tools made available like permalinks and backlinks, but mostly by keeping fresh content up on my site. I’m doing an experiment right now and recording the hits I get within a 24-hour period. What I’ve discovered is that when I post fresh content—I get visitors, but it drops off slightly between posts. My new author website is at http://www.theresasneed.com/

Theresa, I am hoping you will return and share your marketing skills.