What's a Blog Chain?

I was invited to be part of a blog chain by the lovely and talented, Melia Alexander. Here's a little bit about her:
A native of Guam, Melia Alexander is the author of sassy, sexy, fun contemporary romances.  She’s fortunate to work at The Male Observation Lab (a.k.a. her day job at a construction company), where she’s able to observe guys in their natural habitat.  In her free time, she’s busy conquering her CrossFit fears: ring dips, power cleans, and the dreaded 800 meter run. Her family appreciates her attempts at cooking and cleaning, although she uses that time to mostly daydream about her characters, which sometimes results in a burnt meal and a half-cleaned house.  Visit http://meliaalexander.com to learn more about her.

And here are my answers to the chain blog questions.

I'm currently working on the third book in the Isabella Mumphrey adventure series. She and Tino are in Arizona and as Tino deals with drug trafficking over the Mexico border, Isabella is on the trail of a Hopi ceremonial holy site and runs into some unexpected traffickers.

My work differs from others of this genre because it isn't really classified as a romance yet has more romance that other action adventure stories. It also has a female main character.

I write what I write because an idea or character comes to me that I'm passionate about. If I'm not passionate about the story it comes through in the writing. That's why I write historical and contemporary--westerns, action adventure, paranormal and mystery. I write the story that is calling to me, but I always try to keep the western or Native American spin on the story so readers know they will always have that element in one of my stories. I had hoped for more genre hopping readers, but right now it seems my historical westerns are the stories most readers are picking up. 

My writing process is as varied as the genres I write. Some books come to me through the character first and I have to then sort out the plot and conflicts. Other times the plot comes and I have to conjure up the characters to fit the plot. In either case, I always have to do research before I finish the story idea. If it's a historical, history could be a part of the plot, if it's a contemporary, either the location or the character's occupation could become part of the plot. Each book has it's own joys and obstacles when the plot is being pieced together, the characters formulating, and through the actual writing.

These are the next two who accepted the chain blog. They will be answering these same questions on their blogs on February 17th, please stop in and check them out. 

Jacquie Rogers

You can never take the country out of a girl’s heart.  Jacquie Rogers lives in Seattle,Washington, now but grew up in Owyhee County, Idaho, where her Hearts of Owyhee series is set.  (Owyhee, pronounced oh-WYE-hee, is the original anglicized spelling of Hawaii.)  She and her friends rode horses all over the hills chasing fictional outlaws and generally causing a ruckus.  Since taking up the pen, her books have won several awards.  Her latest novels are Much Ado About Miners and Sleight of Heart.

Jacquie is a member of Western Fictioneers and Romance Writers of America.  She teaches writing and research classes on occasion, owns the Romancing The West blog and the Pickle Barrel Bar & Books on Facebook.

Links

Jacquie’s Website: http://www.jacquierogers.com

Pickle Barrel Bar & Books Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/qhA_1

Pickle Barrel Bar & Books on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/JacquieRogers/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JacquieRogersAuthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/JacquieRogers

Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/jacquierogers

Lauri Robinson

Lauri Robinson's chosen genre to write is Western historical, and when asked why, she says, "Because I know I wasn't the only girl who wanted to grow up and marry Little Joe Cartwright." Lauri lives in Minnesota where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and their families—spoiling the grandchildren.

You can learn more about Lauri and her books at www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com, or connect with her on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lauri.robinson1 or Twitterhttps://twitter.com/LauriR

Friday Farm Fun- Blog Award

My friend and fantastic romantic suspense author Dixie Brown nominated me for the Very Inspiring Blog Award.

Here are the rules:

• Display the award logo on your blog.
• Link back to the person who nominated you.
• State 7 things about yourself.
• Nominate other bloggers (the number seems to vary) and link back to them.

Here are 7 things:

1) My first horse was named Junebug. She and I spent many hours roaming the mountainside, just thinking  dreaming, and enjoying the scenery.

2) My first long story was written while I sat under a fern on a strip of land that separated the Lostine River from the ditch that provided irrigation for our land and the neighbors on down the canyon.

3) I want a tattoo, but I'm scared I won't like it after it's done.

4) I was a 4-H leader for over twenty years, I worked for the 4-H extension, and I now travel around the state judging at county fairs.

5) My favorite place to go for a mini-vacation is the Oregon Coast.

6) My bucket list is to visit every one of the U.S. States.

7) I drove in a Powder Puff Demolition Derby once. 

Now to nominate others: 

Danita Cahill

Lauri Robinson

Anna Kathryn Lanier

Alison Bruce

Wednesday Western- win a book from Lauri Robinson

Thanks, Paty, for inviting me over today! My latest book, Unclaimed Bride was just released yesterday. Therefore I’d like to give away an autographed paperback to one of your visitors. (The ebook version will be released November 1^st)

With every book comes the story of how the book came to be. I remember the morning I woke up with the opening scene of Unclaimed Bride in my mind. A woman, cold and nervous, had just stepped off the stage in the middle of nowhere. I wanted to close my eyes and see more, but the alarm clock was signally that couldn’t happen. Over the next couple of days a few more scenes came to mind, but it wasn’t until I sat down that the characters really let themselves be known. Then, I must admit, this story wrote itself. I was just a set of fingers on a key board.

Blurb: Running from the past…she bumps into her future!

Mail-order bride Constance Jennings steps off the stage in Cottonwood, Wyoming, and waits for her husband-to-be. But he never shows up, and instead several other men are vying to take his place!

Single father Ellis Clayton must be the only man in town not looking for a bride. But his young daughter's habit of rescuing wounded critters means he ends up offering Constance a temporary shelter.

Having a woman around the house again is all too easy—especially seeing her bond with his daughter—but Ellis can't seem to let go of the past. Problem is, neither can Constance. And hers is about to catch up with her….

With this book, just like many others, there was plenty of research involved. While searching for information I may need for one story, I often jot down other tidbits I come across for future reference. For today’s give away, I’m going to use a few of those tidbits.

Below are three multiple choice questions. Place your answers in the comments section and be sure to leave your contact info/email address so I can get your snail mail address to mail you the book.

1. The 1900 mile route of the Pony Express riders was how much shorter than the stagecoach route?

A. 200 miles

B.  50 miles

C. 100 miles

D.   10 miles

2. The Wells Fargo & Company was created in 1852 as a:

A. Mail Delivery company

B. Stage Coach company

C. Gold Shipping company

D. Bank

3. It’s said that President Theodore Roosevelt referred to this notorious outlaw as America’s Robin Hood:

A. Black Bart

B. Butch Cassidy

C. Jessie James

D. Billy the Kid

Thanks for stopping by today and click here to read an excerpt of Unclaimed Bride.

http://www.amazon.com/Unclaimed-Bride-Harlequin-Historical-ebook/dp/B008X4BKQS%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAJBDF5XQBATGDX4VQ%26tag%3Dspea06-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB008X4BKQS

Wednesday Western- More Honky Tonk Hearts

Today I'm showcasing to more talented authors in the Honky Tonk Hearts Series. Jannine Gallant and Lauri Robinson.


Honky Tonk Hearts

Lonely hearts seem to gravitate to the Lonesome Steer Honky Tonk. A few miles outside Amarillo off historical Route 66, the large wood-paneled structure boasts a large neon star with a single flashing steer riding away from it. Owner and bartender, Gus Rankin, has seen his share of the wandering souls cross his bar and dance floor over the years—he’d even like to think he helped a few find true love along the way.

www.thewildrosepress.com

Nothing But Trouble

Jannine Gallant

Thank you for having me on your blog today, Paty! You asked why I decided to write for this series – two reasons. Honky Tonk Hearts is my second series. I wrote three books for the Class of ’85 series, also with the Wild Rose Press. I had so much fun being part of a group effort and working with the other authors that I didn’t want it to end. The call for HTH came shortly after I finished my last story for the Class of ’85, and I couldn’t resist. Honestly, I tried, since I was in the middle of a different project. But this series had such potential. A honky tonk bar along historic Route 66 is the common element in each book. I kept picturing the opening scene, smack in the middle of the highway outside the Lonesome Steer, and I couldn’t let it go. I’ve included that opening scene below, and I hope it hooks you the way it did me!

Blurb Nothing But Trouble:

Chase Paladin avoids commitment like a patch of stinging nettles. He's seen how love can trample a man, and he doesn’t plan to get hitched—ever. But when Honor Jackson walks into his life, hell-bent on keeping her distance, she turns his convictions inside out.

One look at the too-handsome cowboy with laughing green eyes and a killer smile, and Honor knows he's nothing but trouble. She's come to Redemption, Texas to help an old friend, not to let another man charm her into certain heartache.

But every time she turns around, Chase is there, and the closer they get, the more she fears he’ll break her heart. So when anonymous threats make it clear that someone in Redemption wants her gone, Honor is ready to oblige. Only now Chase isn’t certain he can live without her.

Will two wary hearts take a chance on love before it's too late?

Excerpt:

            Chase Paladin slammed on the brakes and prayed. Momentum, and the heavy livestock trailer he was towing, sent his pickup careening toward the red sports car idling in the middle of Route 66.

            With tires smoking, he rocked to a stop inches from its rear bumper. He peeled his fingers from the steering wheel and spared a glance for Bo, who had slid off the seat onto the floor of the truck. The hound shook himself.

            “What kind of freaking idiot stops in the middle of the road,” he shouted. Pushing his straw hat to the back of his head with a shaking hand, he leaned out the open window. “Hey, buddy—” The complaint lodged in his throat as the passenger door of the Porsche swung open.

            Long, long tanned legs topped by a pair of frayed denim shorts shot out. He dragged his gaze upward as the woman stood. A green-ribbed tank top hugged a slim waist, and thick brown braids dangled over each shoulder. Fists clenched on her hips, she yelled something Chase couldn’t quite hear at the driver.

            A pink flowered duffle bag flew through the open door and landed at her feet. She kicked the door shut and flipped the driver the bird. With squealing tires, the car tore off down the highway.

            Bending, the woman grabbed the handle of the duffle. Faded denim cupped a world-class ass. Chase let out a low whistle as his pulse picked up speed. She glanced in his direction before dragging the bag toward the side of the road. He edged his pickup forward a couple of yards and lowered the passenger window.

            “Need a ride?”

            Her eyes were hidden by oversized sunglasses with leopard-spotted frames. They perched atop a short, straight nose covered with a sprinkling of freckles. Color tinged high cheekbones, and a pink mouth with a full bottom lip drew into a tight line.

            She bared an even row of white teeth. “Not a chance.”

            “You sure? Mornings, there isn’t much traffic along this stretch of highway.”

            Her fist clenched around the canvas handle of the bag. “I’m not in a hurry.”

            “Look, I swear I’m harmless.”

            She eyed him for a long minute. A warm Texas breeze ruffled tendrils of loose hair, blowing them around her face. Pushing a strand off her cheek, she frowned. “You look anything but harmless. If I had to guess, I’d say Trouble is your middle name.”

To learn more about Jannine Gallant and the stories she creates go to: http://www.janninegallant.com/, http://janninegallant.blogspot.com/.

To purchase Nothing But Trouble, go to TWRP Website: http://bit.ly/IbOwjk, Amazon: http://amzn.to/HQrNtk, Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/HQrYVv.

Sing to Me, Cowboy

Lauri Robinson

Sing to Me, Cowboy was a book I’d wanted to write for some time. I knew the characters and the major points of their journey, but since I normally write historical romances, it just sat in the back of my mind, coming forth whenever I’d hear Toby Keith’s song, How Do You Like Me Now. Then I saw the call out for the Honky Tonk Hearts series. The location and repeating characters of the series fit perfectly with my story, however, I wondered about the word count. That turned out to be the toughest part for me, getting Lance and Heather’s journey all told within 40,000 words.  After finishing the story, and sending off to my critique partners and beta reader, I sent it off to The Wild Rose Press, and sat on pins and needles waiting to hear back. When more than two months had passed and I hadn’t heard anything, I contacted my past editor from TWRP and asked if she could check to see if it had ever arrived. Low and behold, it was lost in cyberspace. (Yes, that does happen!) I re-sub and heard back within weeks that they wanted to contract it.

Sing to Me, Cowboy was released May 23^rd and has been given a five lightning bolt review by Storm Goddess Reviews. (http://stormgoddessbookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/06/review-sing-to-me-cowboy.html?zx=29d79f507dac5cab)

Blurb Sing to Me, Cowboy:

Heather Gibson's past catches up with her one dark Texas night. 

Locked in a custody battle with an ex-husband who's looking for any excuse to take her children, Heather doesn't need any more trouble. But when a broken-down car and a dead cell phone leave her stranded at the Lonesome Steer Honky Tonk, she comes face-to-face with the one man who could jeopardize everything—including her heart. 

Country-singing sensation Lance Dugan is back in Amarillo for his grandfather's birthday and to take care of a bit of unfinished business—apologize to Heather for leaving ten years ago. Lance has fought hard and won big the last few years, but seeing Heather again makes him wonder if he's been fighting for the right things.

Finding each other again may seem like fate, but one horrible secret, buried deep, could divide them forever.

Here’s a short excerpt from when Heather and Lance first meet—after ten years.

“Hey? Are you all right?”

The shiver that zipped up her spine caught in her throat with the power to strangle the life out of her. There are certain voices one never forgets—and a first love ranked very near number one.

Heather fought for air. It couldn’t possibly be him. He was in Nashville, where all the famous singers hung out.

“Excuse me, Miss?”

Her hands trembled as air finally entered her lungs. Could this night get any worse? Could her life get any worse?

Pushing off her knees, she straightened her spine, and wasn’t surprised the strangling sensation came back full force. Her heart—as if it wasn’t already racing—shifted into overdrive.

It was him.

Lance Dugan. From his George Strait-out-of-the-box-hat to his un-scuffed Justin boots.

The last person she’d ever expected to see. The last person she’d want to see in the shape she was right now.

Inhaling until her lungs threatened to burst, she squared her shoulders and wished she was back in her car, sweating to death, being eaten by wild beasts, anything but standing face to face with him.

Lance grabbed the fender of the pickup truck next to him just to stay upright. It was if the ground was rising up to meet him. Few things shocked him, but this did.

“Heather? Heather Childs?”

Her smile could still knock his socks off, even though tonight, in the muted light of the parking lot, her grin appeared strained. The rest of her on the other hand, looked just as good as if they’d graduated yesterday instead of ten years ago. Bits of light caught in her golden-brown hair, making it shine and sparkle as brightly as it had when she’d been cheering the football team on. The shorts that hugged her thighs proved her legs were as long and limber as they had been when she’d worn her tiny cheerleading skirt, which had never failed to catch his eye.

“Yes, Lance,” she answered, with the voice that still haunted him at times. “It’s me. But if you recall, it’s Heather Gibson.”

The name hit him like a cold shower. Needing to keep that reaction well-hidden, he let go of the truck and bent down to pick up the leather bag that sat by her feet. Handing it over, Lance admitted, “Yes, I do recall. How’s Matt?”

The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/lauri-robinson-m-175.html

Amazon link http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?_encoding=UTF8&search-type=ss&index=books&field-author=Lauri%20Robinson

Blog http://www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com/

Wednesday Guest, Lauri Robinson

Thanks, Paty, for inviting me over today!

Happy Holidays, everyone!

I’m a romantic at heart, from music to books to movies, and Christmastime is full of romance, so therefore one of my favorite times of the year. 

I stayed up late last night watching a Christmas show…not an earth shattering one, I can’t even tell you the name of it, but one of those sweet stories about falling in love over holidays and it was good. The ending reminded me of Christmas Eve two years ago when our youngest son, gave his now wife an engagement ring. When it came to her turn to open a gift and she chose the one from him, (only a select few in the room knew what was in that great big box) the room grew quieter and quieter as she opened one layer just to discover another box inside. By the time she flipped open the lid on the last little box you could have heard a pin drop. (Since there more than twenty people in the room that was a feat in itself.) 

She squealed, he proposed, and the rest of us cheered and clapped. It was like watching a Christmas movie come to life before our eyes, and will remain a treasured family memory for years.

With that said, I do believe I was invited over to share my upcoming release. I write historical western romances for Harlequin and The Wild Rose Press. Disobeying the Marshal will be released from Harlequin’s Undone Line January 1, 2012.

Blurb:

El Dorado, Kansas, 1881
        Marshal Cord Donovan believed he was married to his badge—until one incredible night in Florie Rockford's bed changed everything. When Florie unexpectedly arrives in town with a desperate warning for his safety, Cord is determined to show her that their spark burns so hot that one night will never be enough.

But Florie has returned with more than just a warning—the consequence of their passion defies all the lawman's rules!

Excerpt:

Florie lowered onto the couch and took a deep breath. It was too late to turn back. She was here. Glancing up was a mistake. The way he cast those caring eyes at her had her heart pounding and her insides growing warmer by the second. The uncanny way he made her feel was scandalous for sure, and she’d thought of little else since he’d left her house three months ago.

Could she tell him everything? Right now, gazing at him, it was hard to think. She begged her senses to remain, and settled her gaze on his shoulder, the exact spot she’d dug out the bullet. “How’s your wound?”

A deep frown formed between his hazel eyes. “Fine. What did you want to tell me?”

Twirling and twisting, her mind sought to pull up something besides the images she treasured. The ones of them alone, together. The ones she dreamed of reliving.

“Florie?” He knelt down in front of her.

He was so handsome—and honorable. The urgency she’d felt back at the farm zipped through her, settling real terror in her chest. “Those men you were chasing that day you were shot. It was the Winter gang, wasn’t it?”

“Were they at your house?” he asked. “Did they do this to you?”

Fear burned her throat as she whispered, “They’re after you, Cord. They’re going to kill you.”

His hand cupped her cheek. “The Winter brothers won’t hurt me.” His gaze never wavered. “Answer me. Did they do this to you?”

“They might already be in town, Cord, you have to leave, or…” She bit her lips. The desire to wrap her arms around him and hold on was so strong she trembled from head to toe. She’d put his life in danger, and now she had to save him. Had to. “I came—”

This is the first story in the Wild Western Nights Duet, book two, Testing the Lawman’s Honor, will be released February 1, 2012.

Blurb:

El Dorado, Kansas, 1881
Della Cramer has tried her hardest to ignore the way Deputy Spencer Monroe stirs her desire, believing he doesn't share her feelings. Little does she know that Spencer has been harboring years of regret for not preventing her marriage to a scoundrel, despite the searing kiss they shared.
When her long-lost husband's sudden death leaves Della's future uncertain, only Spencer can help her. But first, he will have to convince her to trust him and finally give free rein to her passion....

And I’d just like to mention that Paty and I have a book we co-wrote. For a Sister’s Love. It’s available for only $.99!

Blurb:

Lorelei and Maggie Holmes make a desperate vow to reunite after an Indian raid on their wagon train leaves them orphans. Eight-year-old Lorelei is taken in by an impoverished family headed to a Colorado mining town and ten-year-old Maggie finds herself on the way to Portland, Oregon to live with a woman widowed during the Indian attack.

Ten years later, Lorelei’s adoptive father gambles away her birth mother’s locket and her only connection to her lost sister. Believing she needs the locket and to find Maggie, she sets out after the gambler and ends up in the company of a citified lawyer searching for the same man.

While cleaning a hotel room, Maggie discovers her mother’s locket in the possession of a gambler. Fear for her sister increases Maggie's determination. Never one to give up, she dogs the gambler until he agrees to help her find her sister.

Two sisters, two adventures, will they find one another or will the men helping them be their destinies?

Thanks again, Paty, and I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas! Make memories this year, you’ll be glad you did!

Fabulous Friday!!

For those of you who don't follow me on facebook or twitter I received an e-mail the first of the week that told me Spirit of the Mountain had placed first in the paranormal category for the Lories Best Published Book. Since many of you know this is the book of my heart, I was beyond ecstatic. All the first place books in each category now are being read by a buyer for Barnes and Noble and he will pick the best of all those and that person will get a registration for next year's RWA(Romance Writers of America) National Conference. Just having my book picked as first is a thrill.

My daughter finished the cover for the next book I'm self-publishing along with Lauri Robinson. It's our "Sister" story we co-wrote, For a Sister's Love. She wrote half of the book from one sister's point of view, and I wrote the second half from the older sister's point of view. They were split up on a wagon train headed west when their parents were killed in an Indian raid. Now ten years later they're working to get back to one another. It was a lot of fun to plot, come up with their back story, and exchange ideas for each of their stories. I'm having someone read through it for any typos/errors then it will go live to Kindle next week.

And for those of you dying to get your hands on Christmas Redemption, I'd originally said it would be available in November. Due to popular demand, it will be ready to purchase in October. (daughter is working on the cover, I'm formatting it)

This is the first weekend in a while I'm not doing something book related, but I'm on the road to our other property to stop the pivot and start the solid hand line set. Hoping for twenty-four hours of judging a writing contest entries so I can start next week with a clean slate and get Hank's book rolling.

Enjoy your weekend. Summer will soon be over and you'll wish you'd hit the lake, mountain, beach one more time.

Wednesday Guest- Lauri Robinson

The Baby of the Family

Thanks, Paty, for inviting me over today! I love reading your blog, and am honored every time I get to appear here. Today I’d like to talk about my upcoming release, Wildcat Bride. This is my eighteenth novel/novella, and just like children, each one is just as exciting and memorable as the first. I live in Minnesota, where my husband and I are now empty-nesters. Our ‘baby’ (i.e. youngest son) married last summer and has two dogs, our middle son has two daughters, and our oldest son has one daughter and two stepsons. (In other words, our nest sometimes overflows into a full house, which we love.) While growing up, our three sons tested sibling rivalry and birth order personalities to the hilt. And now it’s appeared in my books as well…

We’ve all known them—the baby of the family. They often have a reputation of being spoiled, obnoxious, the center of attention, or even loathed by older siblings. This by-chance position in the family status can even manifest into a condition known as the “Youngest Child Syndrome.”

The qualities mentioned above don’t seem like they’d add up to make the best hero, but the baby of the family is the hero in the fifth Quinter Bride book, Wildcat Bride which will be released by The Wild Rose Press April 1st. Bug, aka, Brett Quinter is the youngest of the five Quinter brothers, raised by an over-bearing mother on the Kansas prairie in the 1880’s.

When I started writing this series, Bug was a young kid, idolizing his oldest brother, Kid, and willing to help his other brothers, Skeeter, Hog, and Snake, in whatever way he could. In his spare time he sought out the oil seeps around the state, dreaming of the day he’d become an oil man like Rockefeller, the founder of the Standard Oil Company.

When it came time to put Bug’s story on paper, I was surprised to find how much he’d matured, and how dedicated he was, not only to his goals, but to his family. Bug may have been the youngest, but the position allowed him to gain knowledge, watching the trials and errors of his brothers, as well as character and grit. Within the first chapter I realized it wasn’t going to be easy going for Bug, his heart was too big, and trapped him at every turn. I knew Bug’s soul mate was Eva, a young orphan introduced in the first book, but I didn’t know Eva’s journey to happily-ever-after would be just as long and tortured as Bug’s.

Writing Bug and Eva’s story was a wonderful experience, it gave me the opportunity to re-connect with all the brothers and their families, but finishing this story, was difficult, for it brought an end—albeit HEA—for all the Quinter brothers and their brides. Yes, there’s the next generation, and the next, but these brothers started it all and hitting that final period was tough. I’m excited to see the book hit the market, and look forward to hearing what fans of The Quinter Brides Series think of it.

Bug may have been the ‘baby of the family’, but he’s a member of an elite group. Mother Teresa was the baby of the family, so was Harriet Tubman, as well as Eddie Murphy and Jay Leno. Maybe the youngest ones do strive to be the center of attention, but they also have made contributions to our world their older siblings couldn’t. I, for one, love those family babies. I cry every time I hear Blake Shelton sing “The Baby”.

Here’s the story blurb: Seeing his long time sweetheart after a long separation, Bug (Brett) Quinter is determined to claim her as his wife. But first he has to wrangle his way out of a New York City jail and travel across the nation on an orphan train. His arrival in Kansas finds his mother and her trusty shotgun are opposed to his wedding plans.

Even with an illustrious career as an artist, the only thing Eva Robertson has ever wanted is Bug Quinter. She’s as shocked as Bug when Ma Quinter refuses to allow them to marry. Not willing to revert to the meek girl the Quinter's first met, Eva must reveal to the entire clan the wildcat buried deep inside her.

And an excerpt from Chapter One:

The driver shrugged his shoulders. “I’m sorry, Sir, I’m not at liberty to say.”
“Not at liberty—”
“Brett, get down from there!” Jenny interrupted, now tugging on his pant leg.
“Sir,” the driver said while Bug tensed his leg, wanting to shake off Jenny’s hold. “Sir. Please, you’re holding up traffic.”
The noise of the city penetrated his thick skull. Shouts and curses, as well as all consuming sounds of traffic and folks in general. More people graced the city streets and boardwalks than Bug figured lived in the whole state of Kansas. All in all, it reminded him of just how much he missed the peace and quiet of home.
“Brett, get down!”
“Sir?” The driver, though not sounding nearly as annoyed as Jenny, looked at him questionably.
Bug glanced left and right, acknowledging the traffic and ignoring it at the same time. He set his stare back on the driver. “Just tell me, was that woman Eva Robertson or not?”
“Sir, I’m not—”
“I know,” Bug said, “at liberty.” He settled his eyes on the man, and wished like hell he hadn’t complied when Jenny said he had to leave his Peacemaker back at the hotel. Didn’t matter though, he didn’t need the pistol. Bug fisted his fingers into the front of the driver’s starched collar. “Let me tell you about liberties, Dodge City style.”
The man’s eyes bulged out of their sockets, and his Adam’s apple bobbled against Bug’s knuckles. There was something about Dodge City that caught an Easterner’s attention every time. They were either as curious as a cat about the cow town and those who lived there, or scared witless. He’d go for witless with this driver.
“Was that Eva Robertson?” he asked again.
“Yes,” the man mouthed.
He knew it! Though he’d barely got a glimpse, something deep inside him said the woman he saw was his… Clearly defined memories of him and Eva spun in his head faster than a Kansas dirt devil. Eva was his what? She was Ma’s neighbor, a family friend, but he didn’t have a claim on her. Well, sure she was his friend, too, but it wasn’t like he could say she was his…As in his. Yet he had—for years—and probably always will.
Bug let go of the driver’s shirt, and patted the white material back in place for good measure. “Thanks,” he offered, jumping down the ground. What the hell was Eva doing in New York City?

You can find Lauri here: www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com
And her books here: The Wild Rose press

Wednesday Promo- Lauri Robinson

Thanks for inviting me over to talk about Harlequin, Mills and Boon’s UNDONE line, Paty.

When I first started writing, I was all about ‘the book I could hold in my hands’, but the influx of e-books made me re-think not only my writing, but my reading. I have downloaded the Kindle app onto my Blackberry, and have read dozens of books while waiting for appointments or traveling. I no longer have to carry a book wherever I go, there are several on my cell phone all the time. Of course, for home reading, I still prefer the paperback. The other thing I’ve found is I really like the shorter e-books for Kindle/electronic reading.

After I heard about Harlequin, Mills and Boon’s new UNDONE line, I decided to write one. The guidelines are pretty simple. Historical, sensual stories between 10,000-15,000 words focused on the hero and heroine’s relationship. ( here’s the link for ‘guidelines’ http://www.eharlequin.com/articlepage.html?articleId=1363&chapter=0 ) So, in honor of research, I read a few before subbing a manuscript, and yes, I’ve read several since then.

Harlequin, Mills and Boon treat UNDONE’s as they do every other line, with an upfront advance and royalties on books sold once the advance is earned out. I was a bit overwhelmed when the contract was 18 pages long, but all in all, it’s similar to those from my other publishers.

My first UNDONE, Wedding Night with the Ranger, was contracted in September 2009 and released in February 2010. To my delight, it was also the line’s first western.
Blurb:
Dodge City, Kansas. 1880.
Texas Ranger-turned-rancher Colt Severson received plenty of advice on how to handle his wife on their wedding night—but not on what to do if she pointed a shotgun at him!
For Annalee Sapp, becoming Colt's bride was both a nightmare and a dream come true. The handsome rancher was the perfect husband, if only he hadn't been tricked into marrying her! He'd be stunned to learn of all the scandalous thoughts she had about him..... But once their wedding night arrives, it's only a matter of time before their passion explodes...and the truth about their impulsive marriage is revealed!
And, here’s a short excerpt from the beginning of the book:
“Well, gentlemen, love, as you call it, may have just taken on a whole new meaning for me.” Colt Severson threw the last of the amber liquid in his shot glass against the back of his throat. Gritting his teeth against the fire trickling down his gullet, his stare locked on the woman storming through the swinging doors of the Broken Spoke. The muscles in his neck quivered. From the looks of her, leaving her alone for a few hours to recover from the shock hadn’t been a good decision on his part.
Chairs around his table toppled, grown men leaping from them like rats on a sinking ship as the saloon doors clattered together behind the swirls of Annalee Sapp’s pink skirt. While the men—who moments before had been full of advice about his upcoming wedding night—scrambled, the stock of the gun in her hands rose to her shoulder and the ends of the double barrels leveled on his chest.
The short, fast pace of this line not only provides wonderful reads; they are fun and quick to write. (That doesn’t mean the waiting is quick, it takes just as long to contract a short as it does a long story.) Last month I contracted my second western UNDONE, which turns out to be the line’s second western. Her Midnight Cowboy will be released in November. As soon as I have the cover art, I’ll post it on my blog, (www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com) and I’d love to hear what you think of it.

If there are any western writers out there looking to break into HQN, I’d encourage you to try your hand at an UNDONE. It’s been a wonderful journey for me.

Wednesday Promo- Lauri Robinson

Hi Paty,

Thanks so much for inviting me over today!

Bio:

Lauri Robinson lives in rural Minnesota where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and four (soon to be five) grandchildren. She works part time, volunteers for several organizations, and is a diehard Elvis and NASCAR fan. Her favorite getaway location is the woods of northern Minnesota on the land homesteaded by her great-grandfather. Stop by and say hi to Lauri at www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com

Has there been any challenges with writing a series about brothers?
Oh, yes, it’s called remembering. LOL. With the Quinter Bride Series I had to create a spread sheet to remember key points, but especially for each of the family member’s ages and then their children’s as the series continued. Also, in the first story the younger brothers weren’t all that likeable. Turning them into heroes meant really allowing the reader to see them through the eyes of the heroine. After reading the first book, one of my critique partners said turning Skeeter into a hero take a miracle. Last week a review of his story, Badland Bride, The Quinter Brides Book Two, said, “Skeeter Quinter is a love, a hero to dream about.” The other difficult part was making sure the hero remained the hero throughout the story, even when their ‘older’ brother made an experience. That all said, writing this series was a lot of fun, and I found myself putting off ending the last book because I didn’t want to say good-bye to this clan of brothers.


Which brother is your favorite and why?
I can’t say I have a favorite because while writing their stories, each brother appealed to me, but Kid will also be the ‘big’ brother. He was the one each of the brother’s looked to as a father figure, and he never failed to come through with thoughtful advice for each of the younger brothers. He was also the one who fell in love the hardest. There were times I wanted him to be real so I could shake some sense into him. Skeeter reminded me so much of one of my brothers, that I loved him from the beginning. Hog and Snake were true gentlemen and I loved how caring and sincere they were. And Bug, well he’s the baby. Who doesn’t love the baby brother?


Do you prefer writing short stories or novels? Why?
I love them both. Novels allow me to dig deep and get to know the characters, really analyze their personalities, while the short stories are fun because they get right to the clash of characters and wrap everything up quickly. I find when I’m working on a novel, that it’s refreshing to pound out a quick, short story. It recharges my creativity and makes me want to get back to work on the longer book.

Thanks again for inviting me over today! In honor of your invitation, and since Boot Hill Bride, The Quinter Brides Book Three will be released on Friday at The Wild Rose Press, one person who comments on your blog will receive free download/e-book of Boot Hill Bride.

Blurb:

Howard (Hog) Quinter is hell bent on getting The Majestic, the finest hotel and restaurant west of the Mississippi, open by May 1st. The last thing he needs is interference from his family, but that’s exactly what he gets when Ma Quinter strikes one brisk morning. Sound asleep, Howard rolls over to discover a lovely young woman lying beside him, however, standing at the foot of the bed are his mother, the girl's father, and a blubbering preacher reading wedding nuptials.

Randilynn Fulton runs from a forced marriage to her aunt in Dodge City, only to discover Aunt Corrine is one of Danny J’s brothel girls. If she stays, Randi may become one as well, which would damage her father's chance at running for the Governor’s seat. But it gets worse when she finds herself in the middle of what she ran from—a shotgun wedding, and she’s the bride.

Excerpt:

Howard nodded. “That’s good.” With the toe of his boot he nudged a log deeper into the flames and watched bright yellow sparks rise up and disappear above the swirls of smoke. The boys didn’t speak, nor did he. What could he say? They’d heard Ma proclaim he was afraid to sleep with his wife, how on earth was a man supposed to respond to that? It wasn’t that he was afraid. It was…He swallowed the log in his throat. Damn, he’d never be able to sleep lying next to her. Even sitting here, stinging from the cold of the night, his fingers tingled, wanting to touch her silky skin, caress the curve of her back and examine those perfect dimples—

“Holy shit!” Snake exclaimed under his breath.

Howard snapped his head up. Both of his brothers stared over his shoulders, their mouths agape and their eyes as round as biscuits.

“What?” he asked, twisting his neck to follow the trail of their gazes. His jaw went lax, the bottom of his chin all but slapped against his chest. The sight he stared at knocked the air out of him harder than being thrown off a wild bucking-bronc.
Inside the canvas, the flickering light of the lantern made his tent glow brighter than the moon. The white, heavy tarp had become pale yellow, and a dark silhouette moved about inside the gently billowing sides. It was a moment before his eyes, locked on the shadow, registered what he saw and sent the impulse to his brain.

Randi was undressing, and the light projected each movement against the canvas screen more clearly than the finest painter could create. Her graceful, womanly profile moved with perfection as she drew her gown over her head. The contours of her breasts, flat stomach, the inward arch of her lower back, and her long, slender legs became clearly visible to onlookers.

“Shit!” Howard leaped to his feet. Almost as an after thought, he grabbed the hat off his head and swiped it at both of his brothers, knocking theirs askew. “Turn around!” he demanded before storming off toward his tent.

Jogging across the grass, he shouted, “Randi! Randi! Dowse the light!”

The silhouette inside stalled.

“Dowse the light!” he repeated.

Wednesday Promo

Well the author I had planned for today must be busy or our e-mails aren't connecting.

So I'll take the time to support other author friends. Laurie Robinson is up at Love Western Romances as this month's spotlight author. Head over and learn more about her. She's an amazing western writer.

Elisabeth Naughton's third book, Stolen Seduction, of her Stolen Series came out last week. You can learn more about her and her books at: www.elisabethnaughton.com

Wednesday Promo- Lauri Robinson

Today I have the pleasure of spotlighting an author I met through our publisher, The Wild Rose Press. Lauri writes westerns for the Cactus line, but her April release is from the American Rose line.

She has become my idol as she owns a red Mustang convertible- my dream car! LOL

Here is info about Lauri and her newest release: An April to Remember. (Which is a very good read.)

Bio: Lauri Robinson lives in Minnesota with her real life romance hero. They have three children, four grandchildren, and two grand dogs. Her favorite genre to write is western/historical romance. She has five stories published with The Wild Rose Press, Mail Order Husband, A Wife for Big John, An Unbelievable Journey, Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book One, and An April to Remember. Her 2009 releases include Rancher McBride, Doctor McBride, Sheriff McBride—Lawmen and Outlaw Anthology, and Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book Two.

1) Why do you write romance stories?

Because I am a hopeless romantic. I love once upon a time and happily ever after stories. I never get tired of listening to Elvis Presley love songs, and I can sit for hours listening to senior citizens tell how they met and remained married to each other for decades. Several years ago my husband challenged me to write one, because as he put it, “You’ve read so many of them,” so I did, and have loved every minute of it.

2) What things inspire you to write a story?

Oh, gosh, just about everything—a song, a joke, a unique piece of history, a landmark, or some other tidbit of information. For An April to Remember it was when we were in Memphis and a riverboat tour guide told us about the historic Sultana. I couldn’t get the ship out of my mind and knew I had to create a love story to take place on the ship's final voyage.

3) Your stories are full of quirky characters and fun wit. Do you draw from colorful people around you or do you have a closet full of imaginary friends who you bring to life on paper?

Thanks! I love unique people. The quirkier they are, the more I love them. So, yes, some things in my stories are real, whether it be something someone said, did, or their overall personality. However, I can’t say any one character has been solely based on one person, more like a combination of several. That said, the second part of your question is true as well. I have a plethora of characters in my head that are scrambling to get out. It’s usually the one that shouts the loudest who gets their story written next. That really happened while I was writing Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book One, before I was finished with the story, the second Quinter brother was screaming at me to tell his story. Therefore, Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book Two, will be released in November.

As I said above, when I heard about the Sultana, I knew I had to write, An April to Remember. Here is the back blurb and a short excerpt.

Blurb:

April Simonson hated men—all men. They were cruel, sinful beasts. Her disfigured face was proof. That is until she met Jerek Brinkley. Then, as the revered Sultana explodes, April falls into the dark, muddy waters of the Mississippi River terrified she’ll never see the light of day or the handsome riverboat gambler again.

Jerek Brinkley fought hell and high water to save the northern vixen who’d won his heart with her card tricks, only to fear Allan Pinkerton’s arrival in Memphis might reveal secrets he’s not ready for her to know.

Based on history’s greatest maritime disaster, An April to Remember, sprinkled with real facts and events, revives the Sultana, a Civil War riverboat whose death toll surpassed the Titanic’s, and offers a new twist on what might have happened that fateful night in 1865.

Excerpt:

April counted as her fingers secretly searched. Unnoticed, she pulled cards from the top, bottom, and center of the deck. In a straight row, one at a time and face up, ace through ten, all spades, landed in front of the man.

Bored, she waited for the ooh’s and ahh’s to pause before asking, “Mrs. Hanson, what is your favorite card?”

“Oh, my,” Abigail fluttered her lashes, “I don’t know, I’ve never thought of it, but my favorite number is seven.”

“My favorite card is the queen of hearts,” Jerek Brinkley leaned his head toward her.

Her neck muscles tightened against the way his husky voice tingled her spine. With a false smile, she tossed four sevens one on top of the other in front of the woman. Skipping her brother she looked at her niece. “I think three’s are in order for Miss Suzie, since she is three years old.”

“Yes! Free!” Suzie squealed as four three’s landed beside her pony.

“I’ll take the jack of hearts, jack of clubs, a ten of diamonds, an eight of spades and, let’s see, a two of clubs,” Willie said with an imitation smile.

She rolled her eyes and while her fingers found each card she let the queen of hearts float into her sleeve. Undaunted, she met her brother’s challenge with five quick flicks of her wrist. The table filled with clapping as the two of clubs landed on top of the others in a neat pile. April laid the rest of the cards on the table in front of her. The last flick of her wrist was unnoticed as her hands fell to her lap.

“What about me, Miss Simonson?” Jerek Brinkley asked.

With the tip of her toe, she slid the card across the floor. “Oh, I believe if you look under your left boot, Mr. Brinkley, you’ll find your queen of hearts.”

He pushed his chair back and others stood to see over the table as he lifted his foot. Face up, the smiling queen appeared. Jerek Brinkley leaned down to pick up the card. As he stretched back in his chair, he ran a finger over the top edge.

April blinked, trying not to look at him, but it was like catching a glimpse of a spectacular sunset, one that made her want to stare in awe.

His gaze met hers and with a sultry voice he declared, “I’d prefer she were in my breast pocket, where I could keep her close to my heart.”

You can purchase An April to Remember in e-book here or in print here

"Thanks for inviting me over, Paty!"

By commenting on this blog anytime between now and my next guest (Wednesday April 22nd) you are in the drawing for a pdf of An April to Remember.

Wednesday Promo - several things

Today, I have some news from author Allison Knight.

My 2008 Medieval Romance, Heartsong has
been nominated for the best novel of the year by my Publisher,
Champagne Books, I'm also going to be signing "Heartsong" and
my 2007 Historical Western Romance along with three other romance authors on February 11th, at our local library. This is in celebration of Valentine's Day.

To add to the fun, my fourteenth book, A Treasure For Sara, a romantic romp through the Yukon just before the gold rush will be released in March.

And Lauri Robinson, is one of the The Wild Rose Press Sony eReader authors. So go to The Wild Rose Press Website and click on this icon and it will take you to the rules and all the other Wild Rose Press authors participating in this contest.

Wednesday Promo

Today I'm promoting two authors who have very different styles, voices, and genres, but both write great characters and fun reads.

Lauri Robinson's fifth book, Shotgun Bride; Book one of the Quinter Brides will be out November 14th in ebook through The Wild Rose Press. If you haven't read any of Lauri's books you're in for a treat. Her historical western romances are fun, with quirky secondary characters, main chracters you want to cheer for, and a touch of intrigue. She writes sweet stories that capture your heart.

Elisabeth Naughton's debut novel will be out December 30th. Stolen Fury is the first book of a Romantic Suspense trilogy being published by Dorchester. Elisabeth's characters are snarky and the stories are edgy. Her stories make you hold on to the edge of your seat to not only find out the who did what, but to see if the hero and heroine really will have a happy ever after.




And lest you forgot. ;) The second book in my Halsey brother series, Outlaw in Petticoats will be out in print November 7th. This historical western romance has humor, unconditional love, and conniving outlaws.

Promo Wednesday

Not much happening in the promo department here. I've slowed down on the big push of promoting Outlaw in Petticoats. The next big push will be when it comes out in print in November. Right now I'm gearing up for RWA Nationals at the end of the month. I'm blasting out pages on the WIP so I can pitch it and have it ready to go if an agent or editor wants to see it. I'm working on my pitches. Glad my RWA chapter is having a pitch meeting next week. I can use help and practice giving my pitch.

I found out I give my workshop at the Historical Conference the Wednesday of Nationals in the morning. Which means I'll help with the literacy signing set up in the afternoon. That first day I have a pretty busy schedule!

I received a print copy of my critique partner, Nicole McCaffrey's book "The Model Man" autographed by her and I can't wait to read it again. This is a feel good, sexy read that you want to read over and over again. IF you don't have a copy you need to get one! You can download it electronically here or buy it in print here.

Another author friend has been raking in the good reviews for her two latest published works. Lauri Robinson's short story "An Unbelievable Journey" and her novel, "A Wife For Big John" are two feel good, funny reads. You can find these at The Wild Rose Press.

Anyone else have any exciting news?