Thank you, thank you to Cindy for including me, once again, in your wonderful blog! I am deeply grateful for being a part of this community! For this post, I decided to highlight Rose’s Choice, the fourth book in my Morgan’s Run Romances, which will come out on October 11, 2016, but is available on pre-order now!

Do you have a view in your writing space?  What does your space look like?  When I write, I sit on my sun porch (April-November) or a comfy chair looking out at a beautiful tidal river that constantly moves and changes. It’s a miracle which I try never to take for granted.

Tell us about your hero.  Sam is the third in the vibrant, sprawling Morgan clan. A handsome, successful architect, he has had a relatively carefree life until it all comes crashing down on him. This forces him to reexamine everything, including his love ‘em and leave ‘em relationships with women. Underneath his rakish façade there is a sensitive, loving man waiting to find the right woman.

Tell us about your heroine. Rose Dillon is a successful, well-respected pediatric neurosurgeon. A slender, ash blonde, she dresses in classic styles that sometimes obscure her underlying sexiness and heat. She has had her heart broken by two Morgan men, including the aforementioned Sam.

What genres are you drawn to as a reader? Mysteries, romances and books with strong vibrant women!

Do you write under a pen name?   Yes, I do this to distinguish my fiction work from my work in my “other life” as a researcher and college professor.

What are you currently working on? The final draft of Rose’s Choice, and first drafts of the fourth books in the Ricky Steele and Roger and Bess mystery series.

What do you have planned for the future? More books in all three series (Morgan’s Run, Ricky Steele and Roger and Bess). I also have some stand-alone novels I’d love to publish “someday.” Readers have asked for another Juls and Tuck mystery so that’s on my mind too!

How far do you plan ahead? At least a year, sometimes 2-3 years.

Do you have any words of inspiration for aspiring authors? Keep writing and polishing! You will succeed!

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book.  His career as successful architect in shambles when he finds himself in the midst of a sexual harassment suit, Sam Morgan returns to his family’s ranch a broken man. There he finds comfort in the arms of Rose Dillon, a gifted pediatric neurosurgeon and dear family friend. In true Morgan fashion, he wooed Rose a year earlier, then left town breaking her heart. While Rose vows to stay away, she finds herself once again head over heels in love with the dark haired Morgan son. Has he been falsely accused or is he the sexual predator his senior colleague claims he is?

When Rose is viciously assaulted, Sam puts his own problems aside to comfort and support her. A white hot romance develops between them only to be threatened by her job offer three thousand miles away and the possibility that this young couple will be torn apart once again.

Author Bio: I have written dozens of novels, of which Rose’s Choice will be the fourteenth published (10/11/16). I write in several genres of fiction—Mystery, Historical, Western Romance, Contemporary Romance, Romance Suspense, and books for children and young adults. Among my titles are Prepped to Kill, Gadfly and Lost in Spindle City (Ricky Steele Mysteries), Jigsaw, A Friend of Silence, Widow’s Island, and Song of the Spirit. Song of the Spirit was a finalist The 2014 International Digital Awards for Historical Fiction for Young Adults. I published five new titles in 2015, Hestor’s Way, a contemporary romance and In the Name of Silence and The Silence of Memory books two and three in the Roger and Bess Mysteries. The Morgan’s Run Romances series debuted in August 2015 with Emma’s Dream (a finalist in the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards), followed by books two and three, Lang’s Return and Jeb’s Promise. Rose’s Choice is book four. I am halfway drafts of book four in the Ricky Steele mysteries and the Roger and Bess mysteries.
My “day job” is as professor at a small New England liberal arts college. My scholarly work centers on social contexts within which children learn and I am the author of three works of nonfiction. My current research examines the impact of mindfulness on readers and writers, work that brings her tremendous joy and satisfaction.

I live in southeastern Massachusetts on a beautiful river. I am the mother of two sons and spends lots of time with them, their beautiful wives, and my four beloved grandchildren. When not teaching or writing (both of which I adore), my passions revolve around family, yoga, swimming, teaching mindfulness to children and adults, and walking.

Author website : http://www.mleeprescott.com

Buy Links:

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Excerpt: Rose’s Choice

Chapter 1           

Face down, forehead on Gracie’s cool, granite counter, Sam Morgan groaned. My life, or at least my career, is over and there isn’t a God damn thing I can do about it. The café owner emerged from the kitchen with his burger, curly fries and iced tea. She set the food in front of him. “What’s this? The Valley’s famous architect havin’ a bad day?”

He gave the tall, thin cook a crooked smile. As usual, there were flecks of food sprinkled in her frizzy salt and pepper hair. “Something like that. Thanks, Gracie, this looks great.”

“What’re you doin’ in town, anyway? Your dad’s always claiming you can’t get outta Flagstaff or you’re traveling to who knows where.”

“I’m out at Spark Foster’s. My team’s called so many times since construction began, I decided to come down for a few days.”

“I hear it’s a doozy.”

“Gonna be cool. Spark’s got great taste.”

“And, deep pockets.”

Sam groaned as he bit into his burger. “God, this is good. Nothing like this in Flagstaff.”

“Baloney,” she said, a pleased grin on her face. “So, Foster’s house is a castle, I hear.”

He raised one eyebrow. “Would I design a castle and spoil the valley? It’ll fit right in with the landscape, promise.”

“Got it hugging a mountain, do ya?” Her gray eyes looked up as the café door swung open and Rose Dillon walked in. “Gotta get back to work, but here’s someone to cheer you up.” With a nod to the young woman, Gracie disappeared through swinging doors.

Sam turned and waved as Rose Dillon approached. Lovely as always, he thought, a pang of guilt washing over him as the lithe, ash blonde neared the counter, her soft hazel eyes full of warmth. It had been almost a year since he’d seen her. In true Morgan style, he had flirted shamelessly with her at his sister’s wedding. In fact, they had danced nearly every dance together. He knew she was interested, very interested, so what did he do? Hightailed it back to Flagstaff right after the wedding and hadn’t called or written since. What a shit you are, Sam Morgan.

“Hi, Sam, this is a surprise.” The Morgan boys were all gorgeous – God’s gift to women, or so their reputation went — and Sam was no exception. His longish, dark brown hair fell over one eye and his soft chestnut brown eyes held a mischievous light, even today when he looked a little down in the dumps.

                Warning bells clanged as Rose slipped onto a stool beside him. Poor guy looks like he’s lost his best friend, but it’s his problem, not yours. Stay away, don’t get involved! This is the second Morgan brother to break your heart.

“You’ve got a bit of sauce on your face,” she said.

He flushed crimson and grabbed a napkin, dabbing his cheek. “Better?”

“Yes.” Rose smiled, unable to look away from the dark eyes.

How did you get started writing? 

I always wanted to write, but didn’t believe in myself enough to take that step.

Then, last year, actually almost exactly a year ago, my daughter told me about something going on at school, and I said to her, “let’s write a story about it.” So, we sat down together and wrote a story. Then, I thought, it would be fun to publish it, so I found an illustrator and we went from there. I wrote three more children’s books under my own name, Bron Whitley, before I decided to start writing sweet historical romance under the name Vivi Holt.

It’s so much fun, I haven’t looked back.

What is your favorite part of writing?

My favorite part of writing is the actual writing. I love writing the story. All of the other things about writing and self-publishing can weigh you down, and get a bit stressful at times, but the writing part is what I enjoy. I also love that reading is now part of my job. I can legitimately say I’m working as I lay in bed with a good book. That’s pretty great.

What is your least favorite part of writing?

I really can’t stand editing. Once the story is finished, I’d love to just hand it to someone who would magically transform it into a complete masterpiece without me having to do anything! That would be amazing. Instead, I have to go back and forth with my beta readers, and my editor, and fix everything, make changes, and make sure it all flows. It’s very painful. Although I’m extremely grateful for all of them, and I end up with a better story for it, I just hate making the changes to the manuscript. Augh!

Tell us about your current series

Of Peaks and Prairies is the first book in a new series called Paradise Valley. There is actually a real valley in Montana, called Paradise Valley, and when you look at pictures from the area, it’s just spectacular. I can only imagine what it would have been like for early settlers to arrive there, in covered wagons, and make it their home. As beautiful as it is, I’m sure it would also have been a hard journey for them.

I recently released the second book in the bestselling Cutter’s Creek series. Cutter’s Creek is an ongoing series set in an idyllic town in historic Montana Territory, written by four different authors. I liked the idea of starting a series of my own that was set in one location, with characters that appear consistently throughout the series as well.

So, I decided that I would take the main characters from my first Cutter’s Creek book, and create a spinoff series around them – after their wedding. Of Peaks and Prairies follows Sarah Songan and Bill Hanover, as they establish their new life together. It also introduces a host of new characters, including two new main characters, who I’m sure you’ll grow to love, and all of them will together be a part of the Paradise Valley series.

It’s a sweet, historical romance series. Not only will there be romance, there will be plenty of action, adventure, intrigue and drama as well. So far, I’m having a great time writing it.

EXCERPT

Of Peaks and Prairies

Chapter One

Fort Worth, Texas

1867

Genevieve Waters-Ewing walked from the church with her hand resting lightly on Quincey Ewing’s raised arm. He’d shaved for the first time in months, and she glanced with distaste at a scratch on his cheek where the blade had nicked his weathered skin. Her whole body trembled, and she fought hard to push down the sobs that threatened to escape her aching throat at any moment. He turned to face her with a grin, his ten gallon hat perched unevenly on his square head.

The minister who’d married them was so old and frail, and his hearing so bad, each time she shook her head and shouted ‘no’ during their vows, he simply nodded with a toothless grin and continued on with the ceremony. If she tried to run, Quincey held her close and pinched her arm. In the end she stood her ground, confident that the law would never uphold such a marriage — until, that is, her new husband forged her signature on the certificate of marriage. Now she wasn’t so sure.

She glared at him as her stepfather came up alongside her.

“Congratulations Genny, you’re a married woman now. Isn’t that what you’ve always wanted?” He chuckled, she caught him winking behind her back at his childhood friend – the man who’d just been pronounced her husband.

“Well, at least it’ll get you out from under my feet,” he continued. “I can’t be payin’ for yer upkeep forever. Your Ma done died on me, leavin’ me with a rug-rat I never wanted, and now it’s time for you to find yer own place in life. Can’t say as I’ll miss ya much, ‘part from the cookin’ an sech of course, but I’ll find a missus to do that soon enough, with you out of the house. ‘Course, you’re not goin’ far — just across the way. I’m sure you could find it in yer heart to help me out a time or two.”

They’d stepped out into the bright Texas morning, and Genevieve squinted her eyes against the sunlight that streamed down through a faint fuzz of thin clouds above. She cast her gaze about – they were on the outskirts of Fort Worth, Texas, and she could see the plains stretched out before them. The town pushed toward the openness, threatening to civilize its bluffs, rises and hollows. Chaparral tufts littered the landscape, sheltering hare and various rodents, and giving the plains an unkempt look. She smoothed the skirts of her burgundy plaid dress. It was the nicest dress she owned, even so it was well worn, and pulled tightly across her chest and hips where she’d grown in recent years. A long line of small buttons ran up the front of the bodice. The sleeves no longer reached her wrists even when she tugged at them, and her stays pinched her tiny waist. She sighed.

“If Ma knew what you had planned for me, Fred, she’d roll over in her grave.” Genevieve caught a sob, and pushed it back down with a grimace.

Bio:

 Vivi Holt writes inspirational, historical romances with a western flavour. Of her books, readers say:

“The plot kept me enthralled and the pages turning”
“I cried and laughed”
“What an awesome ending. Can’t wait for more!!”

Vivi lives in beautiful Brisbane, Australia with her husband and three young children. Growing up on a farm she learned to love the country life and now she writes about it in her books. History has always fascinated her as well, so writing historical romance seemed a natural progression. She loves horse-riding, hiking, and reading.

Her goal is to write touching, emotional and sweet romance stories that captivate the reader and transport them back in time.

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How did you get started writing?

Although I began writing stories almost as soon as I learnt the alphabet and always wanted to be an author, it wasn’t until I went to live in Greece for a few years that I had the time (and literally nothing but the time) to write.  I’d read and re-read everything I owned and there seemed nothing left to do but write my own stories.  I was lucky enough to find a literary agent almost at once, but didn’t have anything published until several years later.

What genre(s) do you write in and why?

I started writing romance, and all my stories contain some element of romance, but I’m one of those authors who can’t seem to work in the confines of a single genre.  I love to bring humor, mystery, suspense, even supernatural elements into my stories, because I like to surprise readers and think they always deserve a little more than they expect.

Tell us about your current series.

All my stories are stand-alones and my latest is my first foray into the cozy mystery genre.  Hannah was fortunate enough to inherit a sweet Victorian cottage from her grandmother, but her life is turned upside-down when this is burgled.  She discovers some hidden love letters to her grandmother that send her on a quest of discovery, but she also meets two very different men, who both seem interested in her and life suddenly becomes quite complicated.

What is your favorite part of writing?

I think it’s that moment when a story seems to take on a reality of its own.  Ideas you’d never considered crowd your head and you become as engrossed in your fictional world as you want your readers to be.

How has your experience with self-publishing been?

I love self-publishing and am a firm advocate of this method.  Authors are on their own when they’re writing their stories and these become very personal to them; so why hand them over to someone else to ‘bring up’ after the hard work is done?  Self-publishing allows the author to retain complete control and nurture their ‘babies’ in the way they want.

Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

They come from the most humdrum situations.  One was a mere snippet from a dream and when I woke up the whole story seemed to play out in my head (In Loving Hate).  Another happened when I was shopping for an elderly neighbor and exchanged no more than a sentence with an elderly gentleman buying tomatoes (Shopping for Love).  Of course I changed the characters involved!  Another came from an actual incident when my tyre blew on the motorway and I imagined a much more romantic scenario from this rather horrible experience (Wishful Thinking).  My latest story (Cocktails and Lies) rushed into my head while chatting to an author friend over lunch about ideas for her story.

What advice do you have for other authors wanting to self-publish?

I think we’re all aware of the negative connotations surrounding self-publishing.  These relate almost entirely to lack of attention to detail on the part of the author.  The best advice I can give is don’t rush to publish.  Make sure you invest time and perhaps money in professional editing services for proofing and content.  Acquire some reliable critique partners and be prepared to listen to their criticisms about your characters and plot—and act on them.  Take pride in your work and make sure your final version is as perfect as you can make it.

Has your muse always known what genre you would write and be published in?

Not at all.  Sadly my muse is a contrary little madam who runs rings around me.  She likes an element of romance but that’s not nearly enough for her.  There has to be conflict, adventure, suspense, or even hints of the supernatural.  I try to rein her in, because it’s difficult to market cross-genre books, but so far it’s a losing battle.  All my books seems to cross genres.

What did you want to be when you were a child?  Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?

I always knew I wanted to invent stories because of the enormous pleasure reading always gave me.  I used to invent worlds and adventures almost before I could write, and from an early age, I planned to be journalist.  That never happened, of course.  I became a teacher instead and tried to instil a passion for reading in my students.  When circumstances allowed me to give up teaching and take up writing, I felt my childhood dreams were on the brink of fulfilment at last.

Do you or have you belonged to a writing organization?  Which one?  Have they helped you with your writing?  How?

Yes!  Before the internet grew up into what it is today, and while I was still teaching, I belonged to a group called Brutal Writers.  It was an amazing critique group (brutally honest, too) run by someone called Lori and I learned so much from it.  We communicated via email (and internet connection was dial-up in those days)—and I felt the same thrill Meg Ryan felt every time I heard ‘You’ve got mail’!  I doubt there are many writing organizations like that nowadays, but there are plenty of helpful groups around and I do belong to a few of them and recommend them to other authors.

Excerpt from Cocktails and Lies:

The shock when I arrived home to find my front door kicked in left me reeling, too stunned to move.  Before I found the courage to enter the house, Jan appeared at my side, his face a picture of concern and sympathy.

“I’ve been watching for you.  I spotted the damage from my balcony when I came home from work and called the police.  They only left ten minutes ago.  Let’s go inside and see what has happened.”

I began to shake violently.  I’ve never been burgled before, but seen the effect on so many people in the course of my work.  It leaves you feeling violated and scared.  I doubted I could even cross my own threshold unaided.  What would I find inside—or not find?  I was still too shocked for tears, just cold, dumb incomprehension.  Me… burgled!  This is such a safe house, tucked away behind the big apartment block, minding its own little business, not encouraging anyone to trespass and break in.  It’s not visible from the road and even sat navs can’t find it—I suffered endless difficulties with deliveries and have fallen out with several courier firms.  I’ve stopped ordering from most online stores, because nothing ever arrives without endless emails or phone calls.

Who would rob me anyway, and why?  Had I been targeted or did someone just happen upon the house?  The questions rampaged my stunned brain as I peered into the house, reluctant to enter.

 Author Bio:

A former teacher, Lynette gave up her career in education a few years ago in order to focus on her writing and thus fulfil her childhood dream.  She writes contemporary women’s fiction, usually involving romance, and often with suspense or a supernatural twist.  She claims ‘Killing Jenna Crane’, a romantic thriller is her personal favorite to date.

Lynette currently lives in an early Victorian cottage (which inspired her latest story: ‘Cocktails and Lies’) in a picturesque Surrey village. When she’s not reading or writing, she loves exploring new recipe ideas from all over the globe.  She also enjoys catching up with friends, visiting the theatre or cinema, and occasionally trying to tame her out-of-control garden and the family’s eccentric cat.

You can find more details of her novels on her website or Amazon author page

Links:

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Website

Blog

Twitter

Amazon Author Page

Tell us about your current series.

No Greater Hell is book four in my Lost and Found, Inc series. Jake Donovan’s Army helicopter crash and loss of memory sent him down a path of crime. His inability to forgive himself and rejoin life is put to the test when the one woman who should never forgive him, places her life in his hands.

What inspired your latest book?

Floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, or any national disaster brings out the very best in humanity. Everyday people volunteer; sacrifice their own comfort to step up and help others. At the same time, there’s always someone who thinks these disasters mean they can commit horrible crimes and get away with it. A news story about looting started me doing the old what if…what if a volunteer became the target of a heinous killer?

What is your next project and when will it be released?

I’m currently working on book two of the Killer Affections series. Samantha Anderson inherited her grandfather’s estate in California. There’s just one problem with that. She didn’t know he existed. Samantha will journey to the land of movie stars on a mission to uncover the truth. As she digs into Charles Pearson’s past, she’ll uncover long buried family secrets, meet a wounded/recovering FBI agent, and discover her grandfather was murdered. She unwittingly finds herself in a killer’s crosshairs. There’s no official title or release date, but for now, I’m calling it…Till the Dead Speak.

Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

They often come from real life. A news story will catch my attention, triggering ‘what if’ questions. I’ll start researching the topic, which often winds up a hundred pages of information before I start writing the story. For example the idea for book one in the Lost and Found, Inc. series came from an article during the super bowl. Human trafficking skyrockets in cities hosting large events such as the super bowl. My curiosity as to how law enforcement combated these crimes took off.

Do you have a view in your writing space?  What does your space look like? 

Did you see the movie UP? Remember the dog who was distracted every time he saw a squirrel? That’s me. I love people, researching, reading…shoot, life in general. So I write in total silence with my back to the windows, immersing myself in the work in progress.

Has your muse always known what genre you would write and be published in?

She was one confused girl in the beginning. I have a couple of contemporary romance novels tucked away (never to see the light of day) to remind me that I need suspense in my stories. Once my muse figured out I loved blending mystery into my romance story, we became fast friends.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book. 

No Greater Hell released May 17^th, 2016

 His past is better left forgotten…

Former Army helicopter pilot Jake Donovan is lucky to be alive. At least that’s what his team of neurosurgeons said. But he knows differently. Jake’s crimes almost cost Holly Hoffman her life, and even though he can’t remember, the pain in her eyes is something he’ll never forget.

Holly’s done being a victim. As a trauma nurse her skills are needed by a humanitarian group providing medical aid after a killer storm ravages the Gulf Coast of Texas. Saving lives however, won’t be an option when a madman wants her dead.

Can Jake and Holly shed the weight of his dark past, or will their happily-ever-after have a fatal ending?

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?

The Romance Writers of America (I am a member) defines Romantic Suspense as: Romance novels in which suspense, mystery, or thriller elements constitute an integral part of the plot.

I completely agree and it’s the only genre I write. I enjoy the extensive research involved in making my work as realistic as possible.

What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?

I am active on Facebook and Twitter. Occasionally, I’ll turn up on Google +. I do not have help…with the exception of a few of my awesome readers who support me by sharing and promoting my work.

Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?

I don’t think I’ll ever be satisfied as a published author. I want to continue to learn, grow and get better as a writer. The most rewarding this is hearing from a reader who connected with your characters. They give me suggestions and requests for the next book. If a reader escaped into a story I’ve written, if she becomes part of that world for a few minutes…well, how could I ask for anything more?

Jerrie Alexander Bio

A student of creative writing in her youth, Jerrie set aside her passion when life presented her with a John Wayne husband and two wonderful children. Her love for romantic suspense inspires her to write alpha males and kick-ass women. Her characters weave their way through death and danger to emerge stronger, because of, and on occasion, in spite of, their love for each other.  If they’re tough enough, they live happily everafter.

Jerrie lives in Texas, thrives on sunshine, children’s laughter, sugar (human and granulated), and researching for her heroes and heroines.

No Greater Hell, book four in the Lost & Found, Inc. series released 5/17/16. Find a complete list of her books at  jerriealexander.com

Buy Links

US – http://amzn.to/23PWt5x

UK – http://amzn.to/227G50Q

CA – http://amzn.to/24Zitkd

AU – http://bit.ly/1R1PLlq

Kobo – http://bit.ly/2254jss

Google Play http://bit.ly/1Tllx1v

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Print – http://amzn.to/1sykanE

Social Media links

Twitter – twitter.com/jerriealexander

FaceBook – facebook.com/JerrieAlexanderAuthor

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GoodReads – https:// goodreads.com/jerriealexander

Two adirondack chairs on a deck at sunset

How did you get started writing?

I was a young mother with three kids and one summer, while at the lake, I must have read ten romantic suspense novels less than a month. One book in particular hooked me into the idea of writing. That was Hello Darkness by Sandra Brown. So, while sitting in the front yard, while my children played and fished, I took pen and paper and wrote my first novel, which is titled: In Two Weeks and is currently, free on all platforms. Just saying.

What genre(s) do you write in and why?

I love the mix of romance and suspense. I’m fascinated by the darker side of human nature so I enjoy exploring that with my antagonists. But I’m a sucker for a happy ending.

Tell us about your current series.

The third book in the NY State Trooper Series titled Deadly Secrets is being released 18 July 2016. This is Reese’s story. He was a secondary character in Dark Water. A lot of readers wanted to know more about him, and the hinted suspense behind his backstory along with a developing relationship between him another secondary character, Patty. Deadly Secrets is all about lies and betrayal of the past, and how they can haunt or present and future unless dealt with head on. It’s a story about letting go of the pains of the past and opening your heart to the future.

What move best describes your life?  Why?

You mean movie? I’m going to stick with that because I haven’t moved in 30 years. Geez, this is a hard one since I watch a ton of movies and in general my life has been pretty mundane. But as I sit here I can’t think of a single one. I suppose an comedy about family life or hockey since I spent 20 something years raising hockey players and traveling with them between 2 counties and five states.

What inspired your latest book?

Deadly Secrets, book two in the NY State Trooper Series (18 July release), was actually birthed from Dark Water, the second book in the same series. I had two secondary characters and thought, what if they got together? It was interesting because while writing Dark Water, I had no clue as to anything about the backstory of Reese McGinn, other than he was not the kind of guy to stay in any one place for more than three years. I thought, what would happen if a baby were involved? Would he stay?

What is your favorite part of writing?

Rewriting. I’m not a fan of draft writing and I tend to write in dialogue first, so there is no descriptions, or sense of where my characters are or what they are doing. I always try to put that in as I go, but it doesn’t work out. So I puke out the dialogue and then go back and layer in and for that’s where the magic happens because that’s where every one comes alive.

What is your least favorite part of writing?

Draft writing and then final copy edits.

What is your next project and when will it be released?

Next Project is tentatively titled The Accused, book 4 in the NY State Trooper series and it will be released this fall.

What is your typical day like?

Since I also am the technical person for Cool Gus Publishing, I often wake up early, write for a couple of hours, then get what I need to for my authors at Cool Gus and then go back to the writing. Actually, there is no typical day. But I do try to write every day.

How much time do you spend promoting your books?  What works best for you?

Not enough. I promote my authors more than I promote myself. I’m working reader engagement.

How has your experience with self-publishing been?

Excellent, but that’s two fold. A few years back, when I first co-created Cool Gus Publishing with Bob Mayer, not only did we find huge success with his back list, but Dark Water hit #10 on Nook and the other books were selling really well. But I was going through some personal changes and didn’t write for about four years, so things slowed down for me personally, but my authors at Cool Gus are doing very well. Now that I’m back in the saddle, so to speak, things personally are starting to pick up.

Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

Life. Television. Other books. Movies. In the shower…

What advice do you have for other authors wanting to self-publish?

Its hard work, and it takes building a readership. There are very few overnight successes, even with Traditional publishing. Perseverance often trumps talent. There is no one magic bullet. What works for me, or for Bob Mayer, might not work for someone else.

Do you have critique partners?

I used to. Now I use beta readers once the draft is done. Other authors and a few fans. I’m always open to feed back.

What is your favorite dessert/food?

My favorite food is Salmon. Dessert? Wine!

How likely are people you meet to end up in your next book?

No one person ends up in my book. But I do take attributes from people I meet. I see someone with a certain, habit I think is interesting, it might show up. Like my husband cracks his knuckles and it drives me nuts. Travis in Jane Doe’s Return cracks his knuckles. Doug from my current work in progress tentatively titled The Accused is based on a book from a Historical Romance I read. Just his looks. His personality is a meld of people along with being true to his characters motivations, goals, and conflicts. So, essentially not really.

What is most difficult for you to write?  Characters, conflict or emotions?  Why?

Women. And I have no idea, why.

Was your road to publication fraught with peril or a walk in the park?

Both. I’ve had two agents. I’ve been with a publisher that went bankrupt. But over all, I wouldn’t change anything.

Give us an elevator pitch for your book.

What if a secret about your past came back and tried to kill you.

Do you have a view in your writing space?  What does your space look like?

I have an office in my home. I’d send a picture, but its currently under remodel. Getting new carpet and painting the walls. It’s a first floor office with a nice window over looking the street. A big u-shaped deks and I work on two 27 inch monitors. I’m tech nut.

Tell us about your hero.  Give us one of his strengths and one of his weaknesses.

From Deadly Secrets: Reese McGinn. His strength is he’s honorable. Which is also his weakness. This is part of his character growth. He learns that being honorable isn’t always the right thing to do for all parties involved. He learns that he hid behind being noble and honorable, instead of being true and loyal.

Tell us about your heroine.  Give us one of her strengths and one of her weaknesses.

From Deadly Secrets: Patty Harmon. She was hard to write. Probably because she’s so different from myself. I’d say her strongest attribute is her ability to bounce back from diversity. But that closed her off from seeing other people as who they really are.

What genres are you drawn to as a reader?

I love Romantic Suspense. But also have a fascination for Science Fiction, particularly aliens. I also like fantasy. Loved the Divergent series and currently hooked on the Wave series.

Do you prefer to read in the same genres you write in or do you avoid reading that genre? Why?

I don’t have a preference, but I think it’s important to read in your own genre.

Has your muse always known what genre you would write and be published in?

Nope. I love the darker side of human nature and tried to write it because I’m often so fascinated by my antagonists that I wrote a couple of horror/thriller books, but I don’t think they are publishable, yet. Working on that.

What do you have planned for the future?

I have five more books planned in the NY State Trooper Series, which will take me to a series based on correctional officers…maybe.

How far do you plan ahead?

I always have a 1 year, 3 year, and 5 year business plan and adjust accordingly.

Do you have any words of inspiration for aspiring authors?

Never quit.

What did you want to be when you were a child?  Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?

I had a million different dreams. An actress. A dancer. Choreographer. Hairdresser. Business Owner. Hacker. Teacher. Cop. Lawyer. Politician. Never a writer, but its fitting I became one since I was interested in everything!

Do you or have you belonged to a writing organization?  Which one?  Have the helped you with your writing?  How?

RWA and ITW. RWA helped with learning the business and Craft. So did ITW. They both helped to meet other authors and network. I met Bob Mayer at a conference and we then created Cool Gus Publishing. I think conferences are very important.

Please tell my readers a little bit about your book. 

 Deadly Secrets is all about keeping secrets and how even when we think we are protecting the ones we love, they can rise up and cause havoc in our lives. Its all about learning to forgive, and move forward with the here and now. Its about a woman learning to open her heart and risk being hurt and a man learning that his life doesn’t have to be ruled by the past.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract? 

Never quit! Keep honing your craft. Set you goals, and work toward them. This isn’t an easy business and not everyone will succeed. But you don’t know if can if you don’t work for it.

A Bit about Jen

Jen Talty is an award-winning author of Romantic Suspense. Dark Water hit #10 in Barnes and Noble and her books have been in the top 50 on Amazon. Jennifer grew up in Rochester, New York. She recently retired from being a full-time hockey mom as her children hung up their skates. She and her husband still live in Rochester while her children travel globe. Jen is the co-founder of Cool Gus Publishing with NY Times Bestselling Author Bob Mayer. Jen does all the cover art, book trailers, eBook Conversions, and also works as a developmental editor.

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How did you get started writing?

My sister and I slept in the same room as kids and she used to beg me to tell her stories after we were tucked into bed, promising me she would return the favor. Of course, she would fall asleep before that happened. But that pretty much sums up my childhood, always dreaming up stories. My teachers used to write on my report cards that I was a day dreamer. Little did they know I was working on my novels!

 What genre(s) do you write in and why?

I started in historical romance after dreaming up the story behind a beloved Cajun song, “Jolie Blonde,” nicknamed the “Cajun National Anthem.” I love history and dig research so writing the Cajun Series of six books for Kensington was a natural, absolutely loved it. When I lost my editor at Kensington, I veered into a series of contemporary romances called “The Cajun Embassy.” Later on this year I’m debuting my paranormal mystery series. Yes, I love variety. One thread that runs through them all, however, is the Louisiana setting or characters — or both. I live in Cajun Country and dearly love my home state so I love sharing it with readers.

Tell us about your current series.

Three Columbia journalism students homesick for Louisiana meet over a bowl of gumbo at school and become lifelong friends. They nickname themselves “The Cajun Embassy” since every time they cook up a Louisiana dish, everyone comes running, wanting to know more about their unique, colorful state.

Each book in “The Cajun Embassy” contemporary romance series focuses on each journalism graduate and where they are now, and the men they fall in love with. “Ticket to Paradise” is a romantic comedy that centers around a California Lottery ticket. “Damn Yankees” concerns a Deep South journalist who inherits part of “Yankee Living” magazine, falling in love with its New England publisher. The differences between the two make for a fun romantic comedy. “Gone Pecan” (pronounced gone pe-cawn) is an expression we use in South Louisiana when someone splits, and for Caroline Hennessey who went gone pecan 14 years ago, it’s about returning home to face old pains and a love that cannot be denied.

Naturally, there’s a gumbo recipe in each one. Because love — and a good gumbo — can cure everything.

What inspired your latest book?

The first book in my new “Cajun Embassy” series is “Ticket to Paradise.” I love Frank Capra movies (think “It’s a Wonderful Life”) and I thought a romantic comedy revolving around a Lottery ticket would be fun to write. I was living in Santa Clarita, California, at the time, struggling to make ends meet and missing home in Louisiana.

My main character, transplanted Cajun Lizzy Guidry, is having the worst day of her life, thanks to newspaperman Martin Taylor, whose editorial has raised the ire of Lizzy’s boss, the mayor of Santa Helena, California. Martin is on the verge of losing his newspaper, which is why he’s buying yet another lottery ticket the night he runs into Lizzy. Still fuming, Lizzy beats him to it, nabbing the last ticket before the machines close. Topping off Martin’s worst day, Lizzy’s ticket wins. Only she doesn’t know it. As Martin attempts to romance his way to five million dollars, will he lose his heart in the process? Will they both realize that love, more than money, is the ticket to paradise?

What is your next project and when will it be released?

I’m a New Orleans native so naturally Hurricane Katrina broke my heart in a million places. I quit my newspaper job, took a massive pay cut and worked two years in hurricane recovery. I stopped writing fiction; my heart wasn’t in it. But one blessing that came out of the storm was me following my true passion, that of being a travel writer. It was something I had done on the side but not full-time. Traveling the South (my personal niche), meeting other writers and experiencing press trips was a new and wonderful experience and I kept thinking how it would make a great mystery series, with the main character doing the same and solving mysteries everywhere she traveled. I began writing again, with my main character, Viola Valentine, a New Orleans native who survives Katrina on her rooftop. Because of the trauma, Viola now experiences ghosts who have died by water. But the one person she really wants to contact — her daughter who died young of cancer — eludes her.

“Ghost of a Chance” is part chic lit, part romance, part paranormal mystery. It’s humorous, it’s sexy, it’s heartwarming but most of all, it helps me write down the feelings of grief I carried from the storm.

Do you have a view in your writing space?  What does your space look like? 

I freelance write for a living, so I have a designated office space in my home (was the dining room once). I work on my dad’s massive old desk, which is filled with items from my travels and artwork, old photos and unusual rocks that make me happy. I have one window and just outside is a bird feeder so I can watch the cardinals and wrens who live in my yard come visit. I adore my writing room, think every woman should have one for their creative endeavors.

Do you write under a pen name?   Why or why not?

Yes, Cherie Claire. My real name is Cheré Dastugue Coen, which my first editor explained had too much punctuation (Cheré – you can’t have accents in publishing), was too French (Dastugue) and was too ethnic (Coen). My pen name is pronounced the same as my real name but spelled correctly. Cherie in French should be Chèrie. Claire was a beloved family member.

Do you have any words of inspiration for aspiring authors?

I teach creative writing at the local university and there are three things I try to impress upon aspiring writers.

1. I hear all the time students saying they aren’t writers, as if you get the designation when you publish a book or someone hands you an award. If you write, you are a writer. So stand tall, head high and proclaim it to the world. You are in marvelous company but you absolutely belong here.
2. Don’t compare. This is hard to do if you write genre fiction because some people don’t respect books such as romances. Don’t let anyone intimidate you or make you feel less worthy because you’re not writing what the New York Times puts on the cover of their book section. It’s like the Oscars. We honor the complex, serious films and ignore the equally elaborate comedies. But the world needs both.
3. Last, don’t give up. Writing should be a labor of love. Period. Write because you have to. Write because you love it. When those rejections come in, have a cry if you need one but get right back to that keyboard and keep going. Keep learning. Keep growing. Listen to others. But never, ever give up. And if you need an extra boost on this subject, put J.K. Rowling’s picture on your computer.

What did you want to be when you were a child?  Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?

Yes, but I fought it for years. I tried several subjects before coming back to journalism as a major. Even after I got the degree I kept thinking I should do something else, something that pays better. LOL

And always I wrote fiction on the side. My first short story was at age 12, my first novel in eighth grade (which was never finished) and I tried screenwriting after college before settling into historical romance and popular fiction.

Will you share some encouraging words for authors still struggling for that first contract? 

Please, please never give up. Follow your bliss.

Buy Links for TICKET TO PARADISE (FREE)

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ticket-Paradise-Cajun-Embassy-Book-ebook/dp/B01I0OBN6M

iBooks – https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/ticket-to-paradise/id1131416489?mt=11

B&N – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ticket-to-paradise-cherie-claire/1124070621?ean=2940153404783

Kobo – https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/ticket-to-paradise-8

BIO

Cherie Claire is the award-winning author of several Louisiana romances and a paranormal mystery series.

Originally published with Kensington, the “Cajun Series” of historical romance follows a family of Acadians (Cajuns) who travel to South Louisiana and start anew after being exiled from their Nova Scotia home. The first three books (“Emilie,” “Rose,” “Gabrielle,”) follow the Gallant sisters as they attempt to reunite with their father (and find love) in the wilds of Louisiana and “Delphine” (Book Four) takes place during Louisiana’s role in the American Revolution. The Dugas family saga continues into the 19th century with “A Cajun Dream” (Book Five) and “The Letter” (Book Six).

Cherie is also the author of “The Cajun Embassy” series of contemporary romances – “Ticket to Paradise,” “Damn Yankees” and “Gone Pecan.” What happens when several Columbia journalism coeds homesick for Louisiana find comfort in a bowl of Cajun gumbo? They become lifelong friends. Because love — and a good gumbo — changes everything.

Cherie’s upcoming novel, “A Ghost of a Chance,” begins a paranormal mystery series featuring New Orleans travel writer and ghost sleuth Viola Valentine.

Cherie lives in South Louisiana where she works as a travel and food writer when not indulging in Cajun culture. Visit her website at www.cherieclaire.net and write to her at CajunRomances@gmail.com.

Website: www.CherieClaire.net

What inspired your latest book? 

Actually, it might surprise you. I always had a bit of a crush on Paul Walker. I will never forget the first time I saw him step onto the big screen in Varsity Blues and thought there is a god and it is he. His untimely and tragic death a few years ago hit me hard. I’m not sure if it’s because we are contemporaries in age or what not, but his passing is one of the few celebrity deaths that really hit home for me. When I was developing this series, and this current release, His Driven Domme, I made it my ode to Paul Walker.

What is your next project and when will it be released?

My next release in the Dungeon Fantasy Club Series is Her Country Master, which is slated for an August 17^th, 2016 release date.

How likely are people you meet to end up in your next book?

Usually they don’t, it’s more that there might be a certain personality trait or quirk that an individual possesses which could be added to a character to give them depth.

 Do you prefer to read in the same genres you write in or do you avoid reading that genre? Why? 

I read everything. I don’t necessarily avoid reading the genre I’m currently writing in. I prefer to go with what I’m in the mood for. Here lately, I’ve been reading Ruby Dixon’s Ice Planet Barbarian series and am really enjoying it.

What did you want to be when you were a child?  

When I was in grade school, I wanted to be an astronaut. I wanted like crazy to have the chance to go to the moon or on a mission to Mars. That little dream bubble burst by the time I hit middle school and discovered how much math was involved.

Did you always know you wanted to be a writer? 

No, I didn’t. Growing up, I followed another one of my passions, music, and went to college on a music scholarship. I wanted to be or thought I wanted to be a business manager for a band. I had always written though, starting in junior high and high school. Getting my start by writing really horrible, soul-sucking, poetry. It wasn’t until the year after I graduated from college that I tried my hand at writing a novel. And from there I was hooked.

When did you start writing toward publication? 

I wrote my first book with an eye toward publication in 2001. I indie published in 2014 and then received my first book contract in 2016. There is no such thing in this business as overnight success.

Describe the genre of this particular title, and is the only genre you write in?  

His Driven Domme is the fourth book in my erotic romance Dungeon Fantasy Club Series. It is a stand-alone title and does not need to be read in order. I also write Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Contemporary under the name Maggie Mae Gallagher.

His Driven Domme (The Dungeon Fantasy Club Series, Book 4)

Jesse Noble loves fast cars and even faster women. A professional race car driver, he’s used to being in the driver’s seat, until a devastating loss on the track forces him to walk away from the only life he’s ever known. After months of rehab and soul-sucking depression, Jesse heads to his friend’s place in Scotland, thinking a month or two of indulging in the fleshy delights of the Dungeon Fantasy Club will help him maneuver the road to recovery more than any painkillers.

Lucy Martin is the mistress and commander of her world. Labeled an ‘Ice Queen’ by her co-workers, she hides her tender and passionate heart from the world, even as she hopes to one day find a man who will help soothe her shattered heart. Now her best friend Zoey, the only person on the planet Lucy can confide in, has gone AWOL and left the country for some Scottish laird. On a mission to rescue her BFF, Lucy travels to Mulladoch Manor and has her world turned on its axis; finding herself in an exclusive BDSM club where she feels right at home.

When the dominant Jesse spies the luscious Lucy sporting four-inch stilettos and leather in the Dungeon Fantasy Club, he surrenders to a night of mind-blowing ecstasy, her caresses somehow driving away every one of his inner demons with supreme skill. In the race of his life, Jesse moves out of the driver’s seat and willingly becomes her passenger – if only she’ll continue tying him up and paddling his bare ass into the most erotically charged, world altering orgasms he’s ever experienced.

When their past secrets are revealed, Jesse will have to convince Lucy to enter the fast lane with him – and prove that he’s willing to submit to all of his Domme’s utmost desires. Can he make the ultimate sacrifice and give up control – for love?

Publisher’s Note: While this is the fourth installment of Anya Summer’s Dungeon Fantasy Club series, like all the books in the series, it can be read as a standalone. It contains explicit sexual themes including anal play and BDSM elements, as well as femdom scenes. If such material offends you, please do not purchase.

Buy Link: http://www.blushingbooks.com/

BIO

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Anya grew up listening to Cardinals baseball and reading anything she could get her hands on. She remembers her mother saying if only she would read the right type of books instead binging her way through the romance aisles at the bookstore, she’d have been a doctor. While Anya never did get that doctorate, she graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with a M.A. in History.

Anya is a #1 Amazon Bestselling and Award-Winning Author published in multiple fiction genres. She also writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance under the name, Maggie Mae Gallagher. A total geek at her core, when she is not writing, she adores attending the latest comic con or spending time with her family. She currently lives in the midwest with her two furry felines.

Visit her website here:

www.anyasummers.com

Amazon Author Page:

www.amazon.com/author/anyasummers

Visit her on social media here:

http://www.facebook.com/AnyaSummersAuthor

Twitter: @AnyaBSummers

Don’t miss these exciting titles by Anya Summers and Blushing Books!

Dungeon Fantasy Club Series

Her Highland Master, April 15, 2016

To Master & Defend, May 15, 2016

Two Doms for Kara, June 12, 2016

His Driven Domme, July 15, 2016

Her Country Master, August 17, 2016

Love Me, Master Me, September 16, 2016

Submit To Me, October 15, 2016

Her Wired Dom, November 14, 2016

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