What you might find me doing/Update

Talisman: Crisscross in Time is on its way to beta readers! What that means for you, the reader is that we're one step closer to getting it in your hands. What that means for me is time to write the next one in the series while I'm all pumped up. That means you won't have to wait as long between books. (Trust me, you'll thank me for holding them close together!) Okay, so on the right you will see pumpkins and  what I will be involved with to get this to you sooner. Yes, it is a write - a - thon. You don't have to be a published author take part and I encourage you to get involved. maybe your writing goal is to write in your journal everyday, that works. So check it out. I will be Tweeting my progress everyday during the write-a-thon, word count and that kind of thing so you can monitor my progress. You are welcome to cheer me on or join in. The Write-a-thon is the 15th through the 20 of this month. I will also be involved that same week with a Readers Fall Festival at Desert_Breeze_Publishing_Connections@yahoogroups.com

So lots to do whether you are a reader or a writer. Dive into your fall! (Do it gracefully and win prizes at both!)

Updates

Well, I'm not at Debra Parmley's blog today as expected. Instead we are shooting for the 6th. Don't hold your breath unless you are reading something that warrants that involuntary response!
Since I won't be hopping from blog to blog today it is time to decide whether or not my hero and heroine in Talisman: Crisscross in Time get out of their current crisis or rather how.
It is a romance so they will in the end, but at what cost?  Quinn- the hero is on trial for murder. Trish - the heroine has yet to pass the bar, but does she know enough to get him off? What game is she playing? Is one of them, or both insane? Of course at this point neither has verbally admitted to the other that they are in love, but if a character is willing to die for the other, doesn't that make it obvious?
Are you dying to know what I'm talking about? Okay, I know T. is, so here's a short excerpt to get you wanting more of this time-travel to the late 1800's.

"Would you care to tell the court of that afternoon?"


Quinn accurately related the events that took place up until they had left the saloon, but didn't mention the details of why such plans had been made.

"What happened when we left the saloon? I will remind you that you are under oath. There is no place here to spare the sensitivities of the women present, including myself."

"I drove ya to my place and we talked. Then ya left."

"We talked. Nothing more? Are you absolutely sure?"

"Yes, we talked… maybe argued, but nothin' else I'm sure."

"Did you infer, by direct means, or hint… at bedding me?"

Quinn dropped his gaze. When he looked up Trish noticed the pain etched there.

"Yes, I did invite ya to my bed."

"For money?" Trish ignored the murmurs and pushed on before her resolve faded.

"No." His features wore a tentative apprehension.
"Didn't you indicate that you would make it 'worth my trip'?"

"Yes, but it was a ploy to cover your actions." he defended.

Judge Fairbanks shifted in his chair.

"Is this a ploy now?" she asked.

"I don't think so, no."

Trish wanted to press him further but her wanting to know how deep his feelings for her ran had nothing to do with this trial.

"Thank you, Quinn. Your honor, I am through questioning this witness, but request that I have the right to recall him."

PTSD - I don't own the corner of the market.

I'm not the only one that writes about PTSD so eloquently. give Debra Erfert a read on her blog today. http://debraerfert.blogspot.com/

Tomorrow I expect to be with a different Debra, Debra Parmley. http://debraparmley.com

Your Official Invitation!

This is an online retreat Oct. 8-12th.
http://www.lucymonroe.com/OnlineReaderRetreat.htm

Some of these books and covers may be a bit too racey for my readers, so be forewarned!
Registration is FREE to win some awesome prizes.

Talking with Donna Hatch

Donna, I have to give you credit for turning me on to historical romance and I believe you call it Regency Romance. If it wears your name, I pick it up! So tell me, what is your typical day like?
It’s not really very glamorous. I get up at an obscene hour of the morning and start getting my children out the door. They all leave at different times so it’s a steady stream. Then I walk, exercise, shower and write or edit. Then after lunch, I go to my day job. After work, it’s all about family, homework, dinner. Occasionally I get another hour or two to write, but not usually. After the kids are in bed, I sometimes practice the harp (but not nearly as much as I should), spend a little time with my husband, and go to sleep. Like I said, not glamorous.

Maybe not glamorous but busy, wow. What inspired you to write romance?
I love it when the story focuses on the development of the relationship, and a happily ever after is a must.

I'm with you and the happily ever after, well most of the time, but I've gotten quite the taste for writing (not reading) the cliffhanger. (Evil laugh - guess it keeps me coming back to figure out what more I can do to the hero.) You mentioned the harp, do you write with music playing?
Yes, sometimes, but usually only to drown out other background noise. I has to be instrumental with no drum beat or it pulls me out.

I love Yanni for that very reason! What motivated you to write your current book?  
A critique partner and friend, Sarah M. Eden, who is also the author of some of my absolute favorite books, emailed me and said she and four other authors were putting together an anthology of short, romance historical stories centered around a winter or Christmas them. She invited me to join them. I accepted, then started brainstorming what I could write.
A Winter’s Knight is about a young woman whose fascination with a murdering earl and his dark castle lands her right in the heart of danger amid a terrible curse, and the man who steals her heart.
Though it takes place during Christmas, it has a very gothic feel. All six of the stories in the anthology are sweet, historical short stories by published authors.

Yum! sounds like my kind of intrigue! I love the danger that cost someone something. What will be your next project?
I’m working on book 3 of my Rogue Hearts series, a series of Regency romances. The working title of the new story is A Perfect Secret.

I guess I'll have to invite you back for that one. Where can we buy a copy of this anthology?
For now, it’s only in digital form and you can buy it at any online store like Amazon. We have plans to make it a paperback in the future—provided the sales are high enough.

Tour Update

Today is the 27th, right/ okay so I'm busy with the tour and well, with writing my next novel. The working title (which  I'm liking more everyday) is Talisman: Crisscross in Time. As you guess, it is a Time-travel romance and what I hope will be the lead in a series' cause I'm intentionally leaving breadcrumbs...

You should be ables to find me at Heidi's http://www.murph4slaw.blogspot.com/ later today (afternoon?) if I can dodge the bronchitus bug. If you are looking for Dark Days of Promise links, they are:

Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-345/Dark-Days-of-Promise/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348250151&sr=8-1&keywords=Dark+Days+of+Promise

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Dark-Days-of-Promise?keyword=Dark+Days+of+Promise&store=nookstore&iehack=%E2%98%A0

Did you know you can follow my latest tweets at my Amazon author page?

Tour Update

You will find me with Melanie Atkins at http://www.melanieatkins.com
http://www.melanieatkins.wordpress.com today. Stop by and say hi!
I can also be found at http://inspirationalebooks.blogspot.com/2012/09/dark-days-of-promise-by-shaunna-gonzales.html
Barnes and Noble finally has Dark Days of Promise!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Dark-Days-of-Promise?keyword=Dark+Days+of+Promise&store=nookstore&iehack=%E2%98%A0

Tickle Tease -- Blog Tour Update

Here I am teasing you and hopefully Tickling your curiosity click over to Bonnie Harrris and Donna Hatch to see what they are sharing about Dark Days of Promise today. And yet another sharing different info. http://inspirationalebooks.blogspot.com/2012/09/dark-days-of-promise-by-shaunna-gonzales.html

Dark Days of Promise Review by Maria Hammarblad

Vicki is a single mom, living with her three children. Her ex-husband is in the military, fighting in some faraway war, and thanks to some help from the closest neighbor Janine, they're doing okay on their own. One day, four men in uniform knock on Vicki's door. She has to tell her children their father is dead, and such words never come easy.

Her ex-husbands death emphasizes the word "single" in a way the divorce never could, and as she tries to cope with a rebellious teenage son and make plans for the future, a handsome banker asks her for a date. Vicki accepts, thinking she's truly alone and that her children need a father figure. These might not be the right reasons for entering a relationship, but it seems logical. At about the same time, Janine's son returns home from the war. He is handsome, strong, and PTSD makes him unpredictably violent.

Shaunna Gonzales has a knack for creating believable characters. They not only come alive on the pages, but I expect them to appear in real life at any moment. Their thoughts, intentions, and problems are believable. It's hard to describe the story conveying how exciting it really is; it contains just the right amount of danger and adventure to keep you turning the pages, and just when you think you know what'll happen, everything takes an unexpected turn.

The book is classified in cryptic categories such as "Christian books and bibles." I normally don't read Christian books: in my opinion the authors usually overdo it, and the material comes across as a few hundred pages of trying to convert people. Gonzales doesn't fall into that trap. There is religion in the book, but the mentions of faith come naturally, as a part of life for the people involved. She handles religion in an elegant, non-threatening and non-coercive way that makes this book stand out as something that can be appreciated both by people looking for a Christian read, and by people wanting to be entertained by an enthralling romantic suspense.

I warmly recommend the book and I will keep my eyes open for new releases from Shaunna Gonzales. If you buy it, be prepared to shut out the world for a while - I just HAD to know what would happen, so I read it all in one day.

=D Maria Hammarblad
Link to buy: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-345/Dark-Days-of-Promise/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348250151&sr=8-1&keywords=Dark+Days+of+Promise

And the Winner is...

Drum roll please.... (thank you)
Wait! What winner? What did they win?
Today's winners are, Patty Froese and Cheryl. They will recieve each receive her choice of Titles by JoAnn Carter, Bk One The Floating Palace, Bk Two Mercies in Disguise, or Bk Three Shifting Sands.
Please contact me with a comment to verify your email address and CONGRATULATIONS!

Chatting w/ Nike, author of Perilous Shadows

Shaunna: So, what's new and interesting about PERILOUS SHADOWS?
Nike: This is the third novel in the series and it's a bit of a psychological whodunit with a ton of romance. My heroine, Kiera Devane, had been badly hurt by life, starting with the untimely death of her parents when she was a child. And things got worse from there for her. So as the story opens in 1947, she's a pioneer newspaper woman trying to excel at what's considered to be a man's job. She's brusque, opinionated, and afraid to get close to people. She has had a poor track record with men and has basically sworn them off. Then she teams up professionally with ace radio broadcaster Argus Nye to catch a killer and her world starts to change in way she can't control. She realizes Argus is a very decent guy who seems to care about her and at the same time the killer has singled her out and appears to be hunting her.

Shaunna: Your novels tend to be what some call "realistic Christian fiction," in that they have fairly gritty crime scenes and flawed characters, much like in real life.
Nike: I have not lived a sheltered life. And I'm very aware there is evil out there. As some know, I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in the bridal industry before I began writing. That was exciting and of course the atmosphere was lovely. At the tail end of that, I also did a stint in my spare time…but it soon became all consuming…as a pet rescuer. I became aware of the horrid things that humans are capable of doing to animals. From there I became a foster mom to two lovely girls who were returned to their dad. After that we adopted three beautiful girls, half-sisters. I worked as a volunteer for the adoption agency through which we adopted our girls. There I learned of the horrid things parents and grandparents have done to their children. Knowing all this first hand, I can't write sugary novels. I don't think that's why God has called me to write. And yet my stories are uplifting, and the good guys always win.

Author Bio:

Nike Chillemi has been called a crime fictionista due to her passion for crime fiction. She was an Inspy Awards 2010 judge in the Suspense/Thriller/Mystery category and a judge in the 2011 and 2012 Carol Awards in the suspense, mystery, and romantic suspense categories. She is the founding board member of the Grace Awards and its Chairman, a reader's choice awards for excellence in Christian fiction. She writes book reviews for The Christian Pulse online magazine. BURNING HEARTS is the first book in the crime wave that is sweeping the south shore of Long Island in The Sanctuary Point series, published by Desert Breeze. GOODBYE NOEL, the second book in the series released in December, 2011 won the Grace Award 2011 in the Mystery/Romantic Suspense/Thriller category. PERILOUS SHADOWS, the third in the series released in July, 2012. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers (Ning).

Purchase Links:
Amazon (including Kindle). http://is.gd/egHcSR
Barnes and Noble (including Nook). http://is.gd/RJF2zy

Blog Tour Update

Dark Days of Promise is available at Desert Breeze Publishing, and Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348250151&sr=8-1&keywords=Dark+Days+of+Promise

Perilous Shadows

Perilous Shadows Blurb: (Historical Romantic Thriller, late-1940s --- Sweet romance, warm intimacy, sophisticated themes presented tastefully

Pioneer newspaperwoman Kiera Devane is on a mission to prove a woman can do a man's job, as she hunts a young coed's killer? Ace radio broadcaster Argus Nye lost one love to a murderous fiend and his pulse races as he tries to protect Kiera from herself as much as from this killer.

Kiera was doted upon by loving parent, but they were killed when she was a girl and she was shipped off to live with a socialite aunt who had little time for her. In her aunt's house, she learned life could be cold and cruel. As a result, she grew up to be an independent and demanding professional woman.

Argus Nye, still bereft from the loss of his first love, can't understand why this female reporter is mesmerizing him. As she takes chances with her life trying to catch a killer, he's determined to protect her.

From Chapter 3


Argus walked Kiera out of the diner and took her elbow as her heels tapped down the cement steps. Her suit was austere, yet somehow she made it sizzle. He shifted his eyes away so as not to be caught staring, but not before taking a second look. "I'll walk you to your car."

"No, that's quite all right. I've been taking care of myself for a long time."

"Still, lass, I don't feel quite right."

"This is the Tastee Diner parking lot. It's well lit. What could happen?"

Argus rubbed his chin. "Oh all right, if you insist. I'll say good night here." He’d tried to be the gentleman, but she was skittish as a young filly.

"Trust me. I'm a big girl. I can take care of myself."

Fighting against an uneasy feeling in his gut, Argus walked to his car on the other side of the lot. Since Ada's death, he'd become overprotective toward women. Fishing in his pocket for his keys, he heard raised voices. One of them, Kiera's.

"Leave me alone. You cheated on me."

Argus dashed for Kiera's car, thinking he recognized the male voice, yet he couldn't quite place it.

"Give me another chance. You misunderstood. It meant nothing." Paul Gregorski, sportscaster at the station, had a hold of Kiera's arm.

A jolt like an electrical charge shot through Argus. "Let go of her if you know what's good for you."

Paul dropped the arm and turned to face Argus. "So, you bumped my show for your special report, and now you want my girl."

"My relationship with Miss Devane is purely professional." He would not allow the slightest insinuation.

Kiera squared her shoulders. "Look, Paul, I wish you well, but let's let bygones be bygones."

The sportscaster slanted his head toward Argus. "I don't want to discuss this in front of him."

"I'm not going anywhere unless Miss Devane asks me to leave."

Kiera pivoted away from them and pulled her car keys out of her purse. "I don't give a hoot what either of you do. I'm going home." She slid behind the wheel of the Pontiac, backed out of her spot, and gunned it out of the lot.

Argus watched her signal light flash a right. She made the turn and her taillights disappeared into the twilight. He laughed aloud.

Paul growled. "What's so funny?"

Argus shook his head and walked to his DeSoto, got in, and put the key in the ignition, but didn't turn it on. She'd never be mistaken for a Carmelite nun. Not in a million years. Blunt, not soft and feminine like his Ada had been. And where'd Kiera get that short Betty Boop hair-do? Not his style at all. No Sir. Where Ada was a sensitive and godly woman, this one was so hardboiled he couldn't imagine her on her knees praying. So, why was she so captivating?

Tour Update

Joan Sowards (once on her home page, find "view My Author Page" and click on it.) Joan dragged an synopsis for Dark Days of Promise out of me! I've begged her not to share it, but...

Tomorrow is the release date for Dark Days of Promise! I'll be with Jude Urbanski.

Shifting Sands with Jo Ann Carter

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-340/The-Roarin%27-Twenties-Book/Detail.bok

What happens when a self-taught environmentalist, who is very much into "natural" ways, meets a university graduate physician who's interested in the latest research and medicine, yet find themselves attracted to each other? Can such different people commit to love each other for a lifetime?


Welcome to book three of the Roarin' Twenties Series, SHIFTING SANDS... (A Historical/Inspirational series set in the 1920's)

This historical series has been my first for this genre. I can't even begin to tell you how much I've enjoyed this project! I have to admit though, in school I was never much of a history buff. Yet, as I dug into the setting, the people who surrounded it, and the 1920 years themselves, it came alive for me and... I fell in love.

For those of you who like to know a bit the of background and ground work to this particular story, I'd love to share with you the Author's Note I had written. There are two parts, the first tells a bit about the history and the second deals with where my thoughts had taken me while I was writing. So sit back, and let's take a peek at what was happening in 1920 in the Pine Barren's of New Jersey~

Historically speaking ~

The White's were a prominent family who lived at Fenwick Manor, in New Lisbon, New Jersey. The original farmhouse was built in the late 1820's. A west wing was added on and ornamental detailing and such was attached in the early 20th century. During this time, it was a 215-acre farmstead. (Currently, the New Jersey Pinelands Commission offices reside in this beautiful home and it is open to the public. Their goal is to protect "the natural and cultural heritage of this unique region.") * Photo seen was copied from http://www.burlcohistorian.com/NewViewsVIII.htm

The White family also owned and maintained the Whitesbog village in Browns Mills. Even today, many of the buildings still stand. Some are preserved for historical benefit, while others were converted into year-round residence dwellings. The general store is open to visitors and they have different activities you can join in throughout the year. The most popular is the annual, "blueberry festival" which is held each June. If you'd like to see some photos, please go to http://www.whitesbog-today.blogspot.com/search/label/N.%20Whitesbog%20Road

As for the characters, both Dede and James are purely fictional. Yet, I did try to stay true to the "typical" pineland people. These folks, while often gruff at first glance, have tender, caring hearts underneath, just as Dede did. You'll also notice the name, Elizabeth White, in this story. She is not a fictional being. Elizabeth was the eldest of three White sisters. However, unlike in this story, she was the sole woman who, with the help of Dr. Fredrick V. Coville, cultivated the first blueberries in 1916. Elizabeth never married and she owned and lived at Suningive, in the Whitesbog Village.

Fairview, the sanatorium, as seen in book two, Mercies in Disguise, has been portrayed as accurately as possible, to the best of my ability. Fairview did indeed have a fire, and the residents did move to Birmingham Inn, but I changed the date to fit the scope of this short historical series. Where fact from fiction deviates is, during the 1920's the sanatorium was never in danger of closing as in Dede and James's story. That's the fun part of writing historical fiction... you get to blend both reality and imagination together.

The real heart of the matter to me (and where the title, Shifting Sands came from)~

Is it wise to build a foundation on sand? Of course not, it moves right under your feet. Yet, in a way, as you saw -- that's exactally what Dede has done with her own life. (And at times, so have I.) Rather than building her foundation upon Christ, she's built her life upon her own strengths and perceptions. That suddenly "shifts" after meeting Dr. James Riley and the Lord. It is then that she realizes what she had considered her greatest strength was also her greatest weakness. Hence the title... Shifting Sands.

Perhaps today, like Dede, you're trying hard to do things in your own might... perhaps even earn your Salvation. God offers to me and to you -- to anyone who seeks him -- the same thing He offered to Dede, a solid foundation that can be found in Christ alone. Have you accepted His gift? If not, there's no better day than today.

As this series ends, I want to let you know I've been praying for you. I've been asking God to use these stories to encourage you and grow your faith. May God's face shine upon you.

--

So, after reading that, would you like to know more? Then here we go...
Blurb:

Dede White is going to shut down the Fairview sanatorium, no matter what. Her beloved aunt died because of doctors like James Riley and she’s not going to let him trifle with any more lives.

But -- James Riley isn’t what she thinks. Unfortunately, Dede doesn’t figure this out until she’s done her best to shut his sanatorium down. She might not be able to repair the damage she’s done, and even if she is, will he be able to love her back?

EXCERPT supplied by author

He drove down through the town of Brown's Mills in silence. As he neared the lake, he pulled off on a side road and stopped by a path that led to the beach. All the while, Dede stayed hunkered down behind his seat. "You can get up now."

She slowly raised herself up to the back seat and then peered out the window to double check. Apparently, she was satisfied. She sank down into the seat and sighed.

"Why are you in my car?"

"I told you..."

He held up his hand. "Dede, wanting to talk and hiding are two different things."

In a small voice she said, "I didn't want to damage your reputation any more than I already have. People are starting to talk... someone is spreading a rumor that the only reason I worked on the Thanksgiving program was to get my foot in the door of the sanatorium." She swallowed. "You know, to use things against you. But that's not true."

James closed his eyes. It was as plain to him as the nose on his face that Dede did not act vindictively against him, yet he could see how it would easily be construed as so. "Dede..."

"I am to blame for everything." Dede rested her hand on his shoulder. "Do you think you could ever find room in your heart to forgive me?"

A shock of awareness zipped through him. Now he was frustrated not only with the circumstance, but the attraction he still felt toward Dede. She's hurting, but why should I have to comfort her when I'm the one who has just lost everything?

A verse filled his mind. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

He sighed and turned around. "Dede, I know that you didn't set out to hurt me... that what you did, you did for your aunt... but it does affect me."

She kept her gaze fastened upon her clasped hands. "I realize that." She peeked up. The tears that filled her soft gray eyes were nearly his undoing. "So what now?"

He opened his door, stepped out, then opened her door, and offered her his hand. She took it and stood next to him. He bundled her up in his arms and rested his chin on the top of her head. "I think it's past time that we both lay our burdens down at the foot of the cross and seek the Lord." He looked out over the glistening water. "I've been real diligent to tell Him what I want... but not so much in asking what He wants." He lifted his head and looked down at her. "Will you do that with me? Ask Him to guide us."

She sniffled but then nodded. "I'd like that. Very much."

"Good. Let’s go to church together on Sunday."

Dede's eyes grew large. "But..."

He held a finger to her lips. "Shh. What others think about you or me is not what's important -- only what God thinks. If people want to talk, nowhere you go or nothing you do is going to stop that."

"Yes, I suppose you're right."

He tweaked her nose. "I like hearing you say that."

She gave him a wobbly smile. "Oh, James. I truly am sorry."

He leaned down and rested his forehead up against hers. "And I truly forgive you."

--

Purchase Link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-340/The-Roarin%27-Twenties-Book/Detail.bok


Also available at CBD, Amazon, B&N, as well as other e-book retailers.
--

You can win a copy of either book one: THE FLOATING PALACE, two: MERCIES IN DISGUISE, or three: SHIFTING SANDS by leaving a comment. A winner's name will be choosen Sept. 24th and post ed on blog blogs so feel free to check back. we will need your email addy to send you the book of your choice so be sure to check and if your name is drawn we will need your addy. Prize will be delivered via email.

Best wishes,
~JoAnn
--
Encouraging faith though fiction
http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/
https://www.amazon.com/author/joanncarter

Army Veteran Reviews Dark Days of Promise

As I read Mrs. Gonzales novel, I felt as IF she was writing it about me and my life. I can relate to all three main characters. I found myself wondering when she had been able to glean so much information and bring it all together in such a way as it riveted me until I finished reading  her novel. Shaunna had me falling in love right along with her characters, stirring up emotions ... and an eyeopener.


This is a very good read! T.Jaymes, Army veteran

Tour Update

I'm chatting with Stephanie Burkhart at Desert Breeze Publishing Sept. 18-21. If you think Lynette Endicott dragged a few secrets out of me...well, let's just say Steph dug deeper. If that isn't enough for you, Sue Perkins asks different questions on Sept. 18 and JoAnn Carter others on Sept. 19.

Update and where you can find me.

I'm visiting with Lynette Endicott for a few days Sept. 14-17 (I know, I'm a little late sharing). Stop by and catch two excerpts from Dark Days of Promise and a few of my secrets as well!

Romance Readers--Start Your Engines!

Registration is FREE and so is the fun!
This is an online retreat Oct. 8-12th.

http://www.lucymonroe.com/OnlineReaderRetreat.htm

Some of these books and covers may be a bit too racey for my readers, so be forewarned!
Registration is free to win some awesome prizes.
Join me on Oct. 11th at 2 pm Pacific Time, at the above link for a live chat!

Announcing: A Long Way to Go

About June Bryan Belfie


June Belfie writes realistic novels from a Christian perspective. Her characters deal with events
many of us face in our daily lives. She began writing romance novels when her granddaughters
were young teens in order to show them the Christian perspective on love and marriage in an
entertaining format. She then turned to adult literature.

"A Special Blessing for Sara," http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007ULU27S  is Mrs. Belfie's third published e-book with Desert Breeze Publishers. She has lived in Pennsylvania most of her adult life and many of her books are set in her hometown of Danville, where she lives with her husband, Jim, an avid gardener and landlord.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006LTHIA4  The Landlord

They enjoy their retirement and their eight grandchildren, who range in age from seven to
twenty-five.

"Reading is a form of relaxation for me. I've written over twelve books and many are on my
hard-drive waiting for revision and eventual submission, with the hopes of someday seeing them
published. A part of me goes into each of my characters - even the ones I don't like," she quips.
Her books display humor as well as confronting the serious issues of the times. She writes from a
kaleidoscope of experience, having gone through a painful divorce in her early thirties, episodes
of illness, owning and operating a large country inn in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania for
eleven years, and raising five children. "They all turned out to be wonderful adults -- in spite of

my mistakes. Thank you, God."

June Belfie can be reached through her websites listed below.
http://www.amazon.com/Moving-On-ebook/dp/B005MVAT3U   

amazon.com/author/junebelfie

http://www.freshview.weebly.com
http://www.junesecondcup.blogspot
http://www.facebook.com/#!/june.belfie

Moon Over Alcatraz by Patricia Yager Delagrange

Book blurb


Brandy Chambers was looking forward to the birth of her first child. She and Weston move from San Francisco to the small town of Alameda to start a family, she’s writing her second book, and Weston has a fantastic job working on the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge project. Having this baby would make her already-wonderful life perfect.

But when the baby dies after a difficult birth, Brandy’s perfect life blows up in her face. Stricken with grief, she and Weston pull apart. This new distance leads them both to disaster. Not until a chance encounter with her high school friend, Edward Barnes, does Brandy pull herself together. Brandy and Weston agree to recommit to each other, striving to forgive infidelity and recreate their previous existence.

Everything is once again going according to plan--until Brandy discovers she’s pregnant. While she struggles to cope with this new obstacle, Edward Barnes returns to town and discovers she’s having a baby, while Weston is torn between his love for his wife and his anger at her betrayal. Can Brandy manage to keep her marriage to Weston together? Will Edward be a part of Brandy’s life if she and Weston separate?

EXCERPT
“What are you doing? Where are you going? Please, let’s talk about this.”

“I work my ass off in New York while you’re at home screwing other dudes?”

I pulled the sheet around me, ran over and grabbed his arm. “I wasn’t screwing other dudes.” He ripped his arm out of my grasp. “I was the one who was all screwed up. Then you went to New York and all we ever did was argue on the phone. You don’t tell your secretary you’re married and she treats me like crap on the phone...”

By now, he was fully dressed, shoes and jacket on, wallet grabbed off the bureau. His hand hovered above the door knob. His face looked void of emotion, wiped clean of all expression. “I can’t do this,” he mumbled.

I sobbed, knowing I’d hurt him and betrayed his trust. I felt like a slut. “I’m sorry. I made a mistake. But I love you.”

He stood near the door, shaking his head, tears dripping from his chin.

My legs shook. My stomach cramped. I had to make him understand. “I know I’ve hurt you and that wasn’t my intention, but I wasn’t thinking straight. I’ll regret it forever. You don’t deserve this but I’m asking you to forgive me.”

His eyes swam with tears and his chin quivered. His Adam’s apple twitched up and down as he swallowed. “I had sex with Carol Smith.”

BUY LINKS:

MUSA BUY LINK:
http://musapublishing.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=150

AMAZON BUY LINK:
http://www.amazon.com/Moon-Over-Alcatraz-ebook/dp/B006UJEE3E/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1327940072&sr=1-1

BARNES & NOBLE BUY LINK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/moon-over-alcatraz-patricia-yager-delagrange/1108112331?ean=2940032996682&itm=1&usri=moon+over+alcatraz

My Love/Hate Affair

I'm a happily married woman.
Or so I thought.
What happened to those fun things, no, those crazy things I used to do?
Like climbing trees to read a good book?

An unsuspecting tree, this tree has made me ask myself these questions and a few more. I recently moved my desk so that I could glance outside while I work. This tree sits dead center in my view. Look at that crotch! Man! IF I were a few years younger (and not afraid of falling to break something I might need -- like my butt.) IF the tree didn't look so inviting - I don't mind sharing with the birds, squirrels and racoons. IF I weren't so darn practical. IF I had a good book to read, oh wait, I have a Kindle stocked with books. IF I had the time to be a kid again.

That's it...if I were a kid again the excuses wouldn't stop me, not the spiders, the ants, or the scratches I would no doubt earn as I climb. Oh wait! I remember why I stopped climbing trees. It's that stomach racing to my throat as I glance down and try to figure out how to get down...without the broken bones. Yea, and I stopped climbing when the memory became ingrained. Over time I forgot the joys of being young.

But hey, there's always tomorrow and the property managers promise to cut the tree down.

Sorry tree. I hate the fact that you  block most of the sunlight coming through my windows. I do love your beauty and the little critters that scamper in your branches. I hate the seed packets that get tracked into the house. How will I feel as the seasons change? I wonder. How will they bring you down without smashing the fence or building? Will the neighboring trees miss you?

First Day of School...Yippee!

School is starting for us here in the Puget Sound Area today. Some of you may be jealous as you've been in class for a few weeks. Your first tests of the year may even be behind you at this point, but don't fret. Remember that next June when your summer is well underway, we will still be in the classroom.
With school in full swing that means it is time for me to go to work, writing in earnest. No more "Mom, can you?" "Mom, can I?" "Mom, can we?" All those things that break one's concentration and intrerrupt the writing muse. I'm so excited! I love my children but I love writing too!
First WIP to get my attention is Talisman: Crisscross in Time. This is a Time-travel romance and depending on the publisher/editor input, the first of a Trilogy or Series.
After that? That will depend on publishers and contracts.

So here's sending my schooled best wishes to you. Enjoy your school season whether learning or working and hopefully both! Feel free to share what you are learning.

Sand and Sun...Ahhh

One must share this amazing display of the 2012 World Championship Sand Sculpting, even if the camera is old and the shots less than perfect. These sculptures are incredible! They are entirely made of sand with the only sculpting tools being a shovel and a tamp. I have to believe these are specailized tools and maybe they are but you must admit that one cannot build a house upon the sand. What of a castle?

This is only one of the six or seven sand castles. Notice the leaves. In the distance is a Sculpture with a title something like "Take her heart and throw away the key."

Can you see the rose above the arch. Wow. Notice the size vs. the woman walking on the far side and the arches themselves.

This was my favorite castle. Yes, I love the horse but this sculptures title, if I remember right is "Twisting Tale." Notice how the whole thing twists and still stands. Of course I love a romance with a twist so that may be why I liked this one. Behind this sculpture on the left is the sculpture "The Three Muses." and on the right, one of our favorites. "Rising Above the Flames." Watch for the tiny details.

Notice the void to the left of the eagle's body above and to the right below. Now for the front, can you see the dripping blood?

From here we visited "Joan of Arc." I neglected to get her trojan style horse that is at the back of this sculpture. This photo was taken in the afternoon sun, but in the morning light her expression is so unique, I found it breathtaking. This angle/lighting does not do her face justice.

Notice the little fish looking on and his expression! Priceless!
This was the tallest of the sculptures. That is an eight foot temporary construction fence behind it and this sculpture can be seen from the street.
If you enjoy humor in art, you'll enjoy this next one as well.

Notice the tiny igaloo inside and the weakened iron below. There is nothing inside offering this structure's roof or sides support.

Time for a commercial break. These sculptures are built in a timed 28 hour period. Some of them are done by individuals and a few by teams of two. I didn't make note of which were which, nor did we take a picture of every one, just our favorites. These sculptures are sprayed with a fine coating of Elmers glue diluted with water. They are sturdy, yet fragile. A couple of years ago, we had a rainstorm that damaged some of the sculptures. I believe you can visit the Mirror 2010 archives for photos.

Time to get to our favorites. This one is entitled "The Unfurling"

Have you figured out what this is? In spite of shadow we captured this young fairies face.

Which takes us to my favorite face and the detail of Medusa.

This was a day well worth the $7.00 admission. If you are in the area, please go, it's worth it. For video check out http://www.nwsandfestival.com/ as well as searching the Mirror link above.

The Last or the First?

Is it the last weekend of the summer? Or is it the first weekend marking the new school year?

It really depends on your perception, doesn't it?
If you are not out playing or Laboring this Labor Day weekend, why not tell us which it is for you and why.
I'll go first since I'm not shy.
Let's start with my youngest, since our family are all going in different directions this long weekend. For him it is the last camping trip of a busy summer. It is also the last weekend before the excitement of school and football season beginning.
For my daughter, well school hasn't started for her yet, but it is the first weekend in a long run of weekends that she doesn't have anything really planned. Hey she had her fun, don't feel bad for her.
Now for my sweetheart and I. This will be the  first weekend in a very long time that it is just the two of us. You know what that means (evil laugh) yeah, we may be older, but not too old! Actually we are staying close to home with nothing major planned except for both of us taking the weekend off.

So what are you planning? A last summer fun trip? The first school filled weekend with last minute shopping? Maybe a romantic get away? Or are you going to let the bordom get to you? Tell us!

What is the key?

Thank you Shaunna for inviting me to your blog today. On 21st July my fantasy romance "The Sixth Key" was released by Desert Breeze Publishing. The novel is set on the alternate world of Sacral, a world ruled by telepaths. It's a sweet romance and suitable for sixteen years and older.


Fantasy books are my favorite to read and write. I love creating worlds for my characters. Once I have the basic outline and characters in my head, the world develops around them. Sometimes I get rapped over the knuckles by the characters as they decide something isn't right and they want it changed. The end result is usually a combined effort.

I learned early on in my writing efforts to listen to my characters. They know themselves better than anyone else, including me, but they don't always know what's best for them. At the end of the day I'm the author and if I feel really strongly about a trait or scene I insist it goes my way. A little sulking follows, but it all comes out fine in the end.

The Sixth Key centers around Riley, a young woman from Earth, who wakes up after an accident to find she's on a world ruled by telepaths. Caught between the man who brought her to Sacral and the leader of the Mutes, Riley must solve the Riddle of the Keys to discover the identity of the real King of Sacral.

I hope you enjoy the excerpt below and don't forget, leave a comment and be in to win an ebook version of "The Sixth Key" at the end of the blog tour.

Buy Link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-324/The-Sixth-Key-Sue/Detail.bok

Website: http://www.sueperkinsauthor.com/  


Excerpt posted by permission:

A cold drizzle fell on Riley as she left home on Monday morning. The weather matched her mood. Another weekend wasted waiting for Jothur to contact her.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. He's gone Riley. Left without a word. He's probably taken up with some fancy woman in another town.

Head down, she pushed her way through the crowds, heading for the bus stop. Riley didn't pay any attention to those around her. Her thoughts were fixed on her time with Jothur.

They met at a party. A casual friend asked her to be nice to the stranger who had only recently arrived in town and didn't know anyone. Riley clutched her drink tightly and gazed unbelievingly at the tall, blond, handsome man. His smile made her insides melt, and when he spoke, the liquid tones of his voice flowed over her as molten chocolate.

Desperate to keep his attention, she offered to show him the around the town. Jothur accepted, and for several weeks they were inseparable. Riley couldn't help herself. She'd fallen hard for this gorgeous man. Did he feel the same way? Of course he did. Her guess proved correct when he talked about their future together. The day after they'd discussed this -- he disappeared.

No explanations. No note. No phone call. Riley's worries surfaced when he didn't turn up for their next date. To make sure nothing had happened to him, she'd grabbed her jacket and opened the front door before realizing she had no idea where Jothur lived. He'd always been pretty vague about his address, but at the time Riley hadn't thought anything of it.

Days passed. None of her crowd knew where Jothur lived either. Her misery increased. This had been her fourth weekend alone and she had to accept Jothur had left with no intention of coming back. It didn't mean she had to like it though.

The drizzle turned into a downpour. Raindrops bounced off the black road surface, but through the noise she could hear a bus approaching.

Great. Miss this one and she'd be late for work. She dashed out into the road, head down, trying to keep the rain from her face. A horn blared and brakes squealed. Riley stopped. Her head jerked up to see a huge yellow truck bearing down on her. The driver's horrified face filled her vision before everything went dark.

Childeren's Books with Tina Scott

Today my guest is Tina Scott has written several books including the children’s books listed below:


•When I Grow Up is a faith-based rhyming story suggesting to children that dreams are within their grasp as long as they read their scriptures and obey the commandments. WHEN I GROW UP is beautifully illustrated and written by Tina Scott. Scott gently opens the world of possibilities and encourages children and the parents who read to them to explore available options while choosing the right.

•How young is too young to teach a child the important principle of faith? What is faith? What does it feel like, and how can a child make their faith grow? Faith Is believing, feeling, trusting, and following. Our faith is like an invisible seed, if we take care of it, it will grow. Tina Scott is both author and illustrator for this elegant and strait-forward children’s picture book description: FAITH IS . . . Her illustrations are multicultural in nature, her language is easy to understand, her explanations are non-denominational and inclusive.

•In COYOTE'S GRAND ADVENTURE Coyote dreams of flying, but although he tries hard, he doesn’t know how to achieve his goal—until Buzzard accidentally gives him and idea. As a child I grew up watching Wylie Coyote get bested by Roadrunner time after time, but never give up. In Coyote’s Grand Adventure, Coyote dreams of flying and his nemesis is a buzzard and his side-kick is a lizard. The story is fresh and entertaining, illustrated in cartoon style, and sure to evoke smiles from all ages.

  Let's talk with Tina.
How long have you been writing?

Writing essays and short stories was always my favorite part of school, and as a young girl, I wanted to be a writer/illustrator. It wasn’t until after I took creative writing in college that I remembered my dream and started working toward it as a goal.

What genre do you write and why?
I took Kid’s Lit in college, and therefore started writing children’s picture books first. I have seven kids of my own, a growing number of grandchildren, and twenty years of experience in the Cub Scout program and working with young children, so writing picture books is a natural pursuit. However, I enjoy writing contemporary YA, as well as historical. My current project is a fantasy written for “mature” women.

Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you to overcome it?
My favorite thing to do is to alternate between writing and painting. When I get stuck on one, I move to the other. It seems to clear my head.

What is your next project?
I can’t tell yet. I have two more children’s picture books that I’d like to illustrate and publish. I have a second historical romance in the works, as well as a contemporary ghost story. First, I’m finishing my women’s fantasy.

Okay are you ready for the Power round questions?
Favorite food? I love ice cream. My dad made ice cream on Sundays growing up, and it brings back fond memories.
Favorite dessert? Cheesecake, and apple crisp
Jeans and T-shirt, or designer clothes? I love casual. I also enjoy quality. However, I see no reason to spend a ton of cash on clothes
Guilty pleasure? Sleeping in or staying up late, and being home alone on occasion.
Favorite flower? I love flowers in general. They're so bright and pretty. I have silk ones all over in my house. I love the smell of carnations, and roses.
Favorite sport? I don't do sports. I love to walk, and I enjoyed ice-skating and roller-skating when I was younger. And climbing trees. No tree was safe from me when I was a kid.

Thanks for stopping by. Thanks for having me.