Be sure and leave a comment. Amy would like to give away an ebook to one lucky commentor.

How many books have you written? I’ve written seven novels and a novella. One novel (a YA) is on sub to editors through my agent. I’ve self-published five books so far, with more to come this year!

You write contemporary romance as well as Young Adult fantasy romance. Why the different genres? I like to read different genres and always have, and I think that’s why I like writing in different genres. Though my 20 SOMETHING series and The Hidden Trilogy are very different, they both contain romance, which is always my main interest, whether in books or movies or the TV shows I prefer. The 20 SOMETHING contemporary series features twenty-somethings in the world of TV news and is inspired by my own experiences as a news anchor/reporter working at 6 different stations in 4 different states over the years. As far as The Hidden Trilogy— in middle school I was a huge Lord of the Rings geek, and when I learned that J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired by Norse mythology, specifically the Poetic Edda, I looked into the ancient minstrel tales myself. In them, the Fae are described as beautiful, frightening, powerful, sometimes god-like. The Trilogy, beginning with HIDDEN DEEP, is based on a combination of this Norse mythology and Celtic Fae legends.

How did you get started writing? I actually tried writing a novel the year I graduated from college when I was working my first job as a TV news anchor/reporter. I covered an amazing murder trial and it inspired me to write a murder mystery. But I quickly discovered that news writing and novel writing were *very* different. I didn’t know how to get past the first few chapters. As I moved from city to city, moving up the TV news career ladder, I kept trying, starting and stopping several novels over the years. It wasn’t until I quit my full-time job to stay home with my kids that I really began the long process of learning about story structure and good writing. I joined RWA, went to some local conferences and found my first critique partner at one of them. I entered chapter contests for feedback and read a lot of writing craft books. I was fortunate that the first novel I completed was selected as a Golden Heart finalist in 2013. I was a finalist again the next year with that YA murder mystery/romantic suspense book! That’s the book that got me my agent, too.

What’s your typical day like? I’m very blessed to be able to write full-time, which for me is about four or five hours a day. I still have young kids at home, so when’s school’s out, I’m a full-time mom. But I do write every day. I go to the library and sit in the furthest back corner with only the most boring reference books for a view. I wish I was one of those super-focused people who can write anywhere anytime, but I’m the world’s worst multi-tasker.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? I’m definitely a plotter. I could never write so many books so quickly without it. I pantsed my way through my first book, which was fun, but then it needed LOTS of revision, which took way longer than just planning it out in the first place. Now I do a few character exercises, fill out a beat sheet and then a scene-by-scene outline (in pencil) during my pre-writing stage. I follow it for my story structure, but I also keep a good eraser on hand in case inspiration strikes and I want to make changes. While I am a plotter, I’m not rigid about it—things can and do change as the story progresses and I don’t feel it inhibits my creativity at all.

You mentioned you have an agent but you are also self-published. How did you decide to do both? Honestly, a few years ago I believed self-publishing was not for me. Then I had so many talented author friends (and fellow Golden Heart finalists) who were choosing that option that I finally began to learn about it. Once I did, I was convinced it was something I really wanted to try. I love that authors have more options these days. Interestingly, I signed with my agent about the same time I decided to self-publish. In fact, I made sure when we spoke during THE CALL that she was okay with my plans to do it. I’m not against traditional publishing at all—I guess I just want to try everything and see what suits me best. Also, some genres sell better self-published than others. Some, particularly contemporary YA, still do better trad-pubbed.

What went into the process of self-publishing? SO much! I won’t lie– it’s a lot of work. After writing several drafts of a book, I send it to my critique partners and implement their suggestions. Then it goes through three rounds with an editor and then to a proofreader. I hire a formatter as well as a professional cover designer—they give me both ebook and print versions of my interiors and covers. I upload the books myself to the various retailers. I have hired PR companies for almost every release (and some cover reveals) to spread the word and try to reach my target audience. Some have worked better than others. I utilize social media and a newsletter to keep readers updated about new releases and/or sales, but I try not to overdo it and turn people off.

Do you have other talents besides writing? I’ve been a voiceover artist for the past 14 years, doing radio and TV ads and corporate videos. I also narrate audiobooks. No, I haven’t done my own yet—I haven’t had time! I’m like the plumber with leaky pipes in his own house—so busy working for everyone else, I haven’t recorded my own books. But they’re coming! I’ll be sure to update you when they’re available.

Do you have any advice for someone who wants to write a book and become published? I’ve seen the statistic that 90% of people want to write a book and only 10% actually do. I think lack of know-how stops most people. So my advice would be to join a great writer’s group like RWA (Romance Writers of America) and a local chapter. It’s such a great resource for information on good writing as well as for support. Having writer friends to trade work with made an incredible difference for me. I also enjoyed writing more and had more success when I got a firm grasp on story structure. I loved the book Save the Cat by Blake Snyder for that. It’s very accessible and clear, besides being funny and enjoyable. When I read it, a lightbulb went off for me.  

What’s your next project and when will it be released? I’m working on the next books in the Hidden Trilogy. Book two, HIDDEN HEART, is in the editing process now and will come out May 24. I’ve just finished a Hidden-related novella called THE SWAY for a box set with some awesome YA fantasy authors. The bundle is called Faery Tales and will be released mid-May. I still have to write a fifth book in my 20 Something series, but I’ll be immersed in the Hidden world for at least the next few months before starting that.

Thank you so much for hosting me today Cindy—it’s been fun!

HERE’S THE BLURB FOR CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING:

22-year-old Heidi Haynes is almost one year into her “real life”. She has her first reporting job, her first apartment, and a comfortable relationship with her college sweetheart. But for some reason she’s not as eager to talk about walking down the aisle as he is.

Heidi secretly longs for big cities, big-market breaking news, and real independence from her way-too-close-by helicopter parents. Problem is, the last time she left the security of home for new places and new people, things didn’t go so well. Disastrously, in fact, and she came running back to a local college and a “safe” boyfriend.

Aric Serrano is definitely not safe.

He’s six-feet-four-inches of missing-Hemsworth-brother-hotness and plans to stay in small-market-Southern-Hell just long enough to grab a cup of coffee and put together a kick-ass “escape tape”. He’ll serve his one-year contract, then he’s taking off for a higher rung on the TV sports ladder—alone—the way he likes it. Then he meets his new co-anchor.

Heidi would be so much more comfortable if she could simply ignore Aric. He’s just her type—the type she’s so careful to avoid these days. But that becomes impossible when she’s forced to work closely with him on the weekend newscast. Now the attraction between them is growing even faster than the ratings, and what happens behind the scenes is the real news.

AND MY SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

WEBSITE- http://www.amypatrickbooks.com/

FACEBOOK- https://www.facebook.com/AmyPatrickAuthor?ref_type=bookmark

TWITTER- https://twitter.com/AmyDelucaAuthor

PINTEREST- https://www.pinterest.com/AmyPatrickBooks/

GOODREADS- https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3247178.Amy_Patrick

Bronwen will be giving away an ecopy of her book, A Kiss of Lies book #1 in the Disgraced Lords series

1. What inspired your latest book?

My latest book, released 24 March is A TOUCH OF PASSION, a Regency historical romance. It’s book #3 in my Disgraced Lords series. The Disgraced Lords are a bunch of school friends, nicknamed the Libertine Scholars, whose fathers were—not very nice—is putting it mildly.  They have an unknown enemy who is revisiting the sins of the father on the sons. The series has an over arcing villain, as well as a different villain in each standalone book, so I had to plot the series really well before I started. I plotted out a series books, one for each of the six men.

M y six heroes are:

1. A Kiss of Lies, book #1 – Christian Markham, the Earl of Trent – wounded war hero, the gorgeous rake who is faced with confronting who he is, now that he’s been badly burned at Waterloo. He reminds me of Mel Gibson’s character in The Man Without a Face. A man whose world has been turned upside down as he struggles for a new identity. He can no longer use his beauty to glide through life. He has to look deeper inside himself and find out what’s at the core of him as a man. What can he find within himself to make his way in the world?
2. A Promise of More, book #2 – Sebastian Hawkestone, the Earl of Coldhurst – is a very popular and handsome rake who has the ability to understand and empathize with people. He notices seemingly insignificant details about them and their lives, and easily gets inside people’s heads. He’s able to draw conclusions from them and use the information to his own advantage – especially where woman are concerned. He’s the ultimate seducer. A bit like Jake Gyllenhaal’s character in Love, Drugs, and other Things.
3. A Touch of Passion, book #3 – Grayson Devlin, Viscount Blackwood – A big, gorgeous rake with a heart of gold. The man who tries to look tough on the outside but is in fact marshmallow inside. He’d do anything for anyone and fiercely protects those he loves with his life. He reminds me of Stefan Salvatore from The Vampire Diaries. Silent and intense.
4. A Whisper of Desire, book #4 – Maitland Spencer, the Duke of Lyttelton – he’s a masculine version of Temperance Brennan from Bones. He’s a mathematical genius, making him England’s most successful card player. But he is deemed cold and distant, emotionally withdrawn, and due to his intelligence he has trouble connecting with people.
5. A Taste of Seduction, book #5, – Hadley Fullerton, younger brother of the Duke of Claymore – he has, what we term in the Regency period ‘the spare’ syndrome. His only role in life is to be ready to step up if anything should happen to his elder brother. He has little if any self-worth and does everything he can to put himself in harm’s way.  Danger is his middle name. He sees no purpose to his life, so doesn’t value it. Like Christopher Chance in Human Target.
6. A Night of Forever, book #5 – Arend Aubury, Baron Labourd – a French exile with a huge chip on his shoulder. His family fled France in 1789 during the revolution and they lost their estates and wealth. Upon reaching manhood, he’s not had the luxury to be the playboy rake. He had to work hard to restore his family’s wealth and standing in England. He’s serious and determined. He still doesn’t feel accepted here, and with the war with Napoleon, feels like an outsider in the country he’s spent most of his life in. He longs for acceptance. I’ve pictured Olivier Martinez for this character.
7. Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

I’ve always had a vivid imagination. Romance is about human emotions so therefore I do get ideas from people around me, things I read, news, etc. I’m always amazed at how modern day issues can provide great plots and emotional stories for a Regency historical book. In some areas things haven’t changed that much over the centuries. People still want to be loved and accepted for who they are.

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

I have a really bad back and neck so I find sitting at a desk kills my ability to write for long periods of a time. If my neck goes, I get headaches which incapacitates me. A friend of mine put me onto lap-desks. I sit on the couch or on my bed against the bedhead and use my laptop. So I can pretty much write from most rooms in my house. I live in New Zealand in a pretty area called Hawkes Bay. It’s an agriculture and wine region with a hot summer and a mild to coldish winter (no snow but gets frost in the mornings). Here’s a picture of my view. I’m in a seaside vineyard and have an amazing view.  I’m very lucky.

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

LOL – if they are interesting enough perhaps. I tend to create characters that are a combination of many people I meet. I love a hero or heroine with deep-seated emotional issues that are usually there due to something that has happened in their lives. People I meet often have seen or been involved in certain incidents and they are what I sometimes use.

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

Grayson Devlin, Viscount Blackwood is a victim of loss. His family died around him in a carriage accident. His guardian becomes Lord Flagstaff, my heroine’s father. Lord Flagstaff has five sons and Grayson and Robert (the eldest son) became firm friends. Then, at Waterloo, he has to cradle Robert in his arms, as he lies dying on the battlefield. Grayson begins to shelter his heart – to love someone leads to pain. Life is too uncertain to open yourself up and to love is too great a risk. He’s honorable, loyal, and completely loveable if he’d let others in.

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

It’s really all about the story. When you have so many characters in your head you just enjoy the process of telling their story. I’d be a liar to say I didn’t love it when readers enjoy my books. I also realize I’ll not be to everyone’s taste. I’m no Jane Austen. My stories are sensual and action packed.

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

Lady Portia Flagstaff almost died of influenza when she was sixteen so she decides she owes it to herself to live her life to the full. Unfortunately, what she wants to experience and society’s norms don’t always align. The one things she does no is that she wants to experience love and passion before she dies. Her problem is she’s in love with Grayson but Grayson doesn’t see her as anything other than a substitute little sister. What I love about Portia is how she is so true to herself. Grayson compromises her, but she refuses to marry him unless he gives her his heart. Can you see a conflict there?

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

I know its cliché but keep writing. Even when you sell your first book, a career it does not make. You usually have to have at least 6 + books published before you start to get a bit of a following.  Honestly, if you really love telling your stories keep polishing your craft. I’ve taken and still take massive on romance writing course, (anything by Patricia Kay is fabulous), I also make sure to read all the top sellers in my genre so I understand what readers love. I also read the books and analyze them. What has this top-selling author done that makes the story good? I go through each book, chapter by chapter, and look at the character arcs. You will usually see why the book is a success.

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

I’m currently writing book #4 and book #5 in the Disgraced Lords series and trying to pull together some outlines for my editor who is chasing more historical romances, but she also wants me to try writing another contemporary. I have a meeting with my agent next week to discuss where to from here.

10. Give us an elevator pitch for your book.

I hate elevator pitches but all good writers should have them at the ready, you never know who you’ll meet in a lift as us kiwi’s call them.

A vivacious thrill seeker clashes with her dutiful defender—causing irresistible sparks to fly.

Here is my excerpt:

“What the blazes do you think you’re doing here?” Portia winced at the familiar sound of Grayson’s voice.

She glanced up to find his handsome features clouded in anger. He probably had no idea that his scolding tone set her heart racing—and not in fright.

“Merely observing. Unlike you, I suspect.”

He was looking up and down the corridor. “I should tell Robert and let him wring that pretty neck of yours.”

She smiled. He’d said pretty neck. “How did you recognize me?”

Grayson stepped closer and pulled her cloak tightly around her shoulders. She pressed back into the wall. His hand reached beside her ear, and a finger wound around a stray curl and tugged. “I’d recognize hair this vibrant red anywhere. So would many others.”

Breath…She struggled to think as her body reacted to his proximity. His light fragrance sent her senses reeling. “I should have known you’d attend this event.”

A growl rumbled deep in his chest. “Well, I had no bloody idea you would. What would Robert think if he saw you? It would break his heart. He has enough to worry about without his wayward sister causing another scandal.”

What had Robert to worry about? Before she could ask he added, “Your selfishness knows no bounds. First it was your cider business, which you flaunted in society’s face, and now you’re at a Cyprians’ Ball.” He couldn’t seem to look her in the eye. “Why Robert hasn’t seen you married off, I’ll never know.”

“I have no intention of being married off to be a nobleman’s baby maker. I will not marry unless it is to my heart’s desire.”

“Is that why you are here? Are you here to meet a lover?”

“No.” Her anger was aroused by his sanctimonious words. “But if I were, it would be none of your business. I don’t condone one standard for men and one for women.”

“The world is full of inequalities. These are the rules we live by. Robert needs to leave knowing his family is protected. He can’t have his mind filled with worry over his—”

“Leave?” She put her hand up to her mouth to stop the nausea rising. “He’s going to war, isn’t he?” Grayson’s lips firmed, and his curse was her answer. “No.” She shook her head. “He’s the eldest, the heir. He can’t.” She looked at Grayson with wide eyes. “Oh, God. You are both going.”

Grayson could not look her in the eye. “I’m going to fight Napoleon because of Robert, to protect him.”

She pushed her mask off her face. “Why is Robert going? You are the last of your line. You can’t go,” she said crossly.

“Robert is going to watch over your brother Philip. He’s scared the young hothead will try to do something heroic but stupid and get himself killed.”

Portia slumped against the wood. Philip was only a year younger than Robert and four years older than her. Robert and Philip were very close. Philip had been declaring his intention to fight the French. She was sure that if women were in charge of this world, there would not be any war. A woman who bore a child would never want him to fight.

“Can I appeal to the small part of you that is a Flagstaff and ask that you give Robert no reason to worry? At least until this war is over. Then you can go back to your scandalous ways.”

Crestfallen and feeling thoroughly chastised, she nodded. “Of course.”

To celebrate the release of A Touch of Passion this month, Random House Loveswept are giving away a $25 Gift Card, Mug and Lipstick

a Rafflecopter giveaway

USA Today bestselling author, Bronwen Evans grew up loving books. She writes both historical and contemporary sexy romances for the modern woman who likes intelligent, spirited heroines, and compassionate alpha heroes. Evans is a two-time winner of the RomCon Readers’ Crown and has been nominated for an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. She lives in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand with her dog Brandy.

Bronwen loves hearing from avid romance readers at romance@bronwenevans.com
You can keep up with Bronwen’s news by visiting her website www.bronwenevans.com

Or follow her on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/bronwenevansauthor

And Twitter https://twitter.com/BronwenEvans_NZ

A Touch of Passion Blurb and Buy Links:

Independent and high-spirited, Lady Portia Flagstaff has never been afraid to take a risk, especially if it involves excitement and danger. But this time, being kidnapped and sold into an Arab harem is the outcome of one risk too many. Now, in order to regain her freedom, she has to rely on the deliciously packaged Grayson Devlin, Viscount Blackwood, a man who despises her reckless ways—and stirs in her a thirst for passion.

After losing his mother and two siblings in a carriage accident years ago, Grayson Devlin promised Portia’s dying brother that he’d always watch over his wayward sister. But having to travel to Egypt to rescue the foolhardy girl has made his blood boil. Grayson already has his hands full trying to clear his best friend and fellow Libertine Scholar of a crime he didn’t commit. Worse still, his dashing rescue has unleashed an unforeseen and undesired consequence: marriage. Now it’s more than Portia he has to protect . . . it’s his battered heart.

Amazon http://amzn.to/1Bqrx2O

Amazon Canada http://amzn.to/1yUMOfv

Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1ucWygI

Amazon Australia http://bit.ly/1zEw2lG

Amazon Germany http://amzn.to/1AkEo57

iBooks http://bit.ly/1EFqsR8

Nook http://bit.ly/1yFzr2u

Kobo http://bit.ly/11iYfmc

Have you had other careers before becoming a writer?

I’ve had jobs as a social worker, in marketing at the headquarters of the top office supplies store and had my own natural handmade soap and lotions business. My degree is in Biology and Botany. I’ve certainly landed far away from my original plans.

 Are you a full time writer or do you have a “day job”?

I am a full time writer. Which means I write, edit, promote and give guest lectures on writing. I love my job. It gives me freedom and to do the things that matter most to me.

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

Paranormal romance, paranormal mystery and I am starting a series that “could” be classified as fantasy. The first novel that I remember reading was Little Women in third grade but I was bored. Very quickly I discovered Stephen King and starting devouring his books sometime during the fourth grade. I watched every scary movie I could get past my mom. Stephen King has been a major inspiration to me and I’ve scoured his book on writing. When he was still teaching my mom and I were this close to going to Maine for a month to take his class. It has definitely influenced my writing. By the way, I am a big wimp now when it comes to scary movies J

Tell us about your current series/WIP.

I am currently ending a much loved series. It started with the first full length novel I ever wrote. While it is bitter sweet to end it (San Francisco Vampires Series) I am pleased with it. I’m also starting a new series that will be situated in Nantes, France. I lived there for a year so when I thought of France it seemed a good decision for it to take place there. It’s not the typical Paris setting which I like about it. It will include gargoyles, demons and some angels, but predominately it’s about gargoyles.

 Do you have critique partners?

I couldn’t survive this whole process without my critique partners. My mom, also an author does my content editing – which is a pretty heavy edit depending on how I did capturing my plot and conflict. My second critique partner I met in a small critique group which we quickly out grew. Now we are best friends and it is amazing to be able to pick up the phone and ask a question or brainstorm when you are stuck. Since both have been with me since I started writing novels, they know my style, process and almost as much about the foundations of my books as I do. In my opinion, critiques partners are essential to the writing process. Especially indie-published authors.

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

My writing space is in our office. A large room with a ton of bookshelves over flowing with books. No matter how many books I get rid of, I seem to find more to take their place. Even though I’ve gone completely digital with reading (Kindle Fire) I still have books I don’t want to get rid of or they are on craft. The rest of the room has floor to ceiling windows with big oak trees just outside and a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and of course that is where I planted my desk. It’s great to stare out at that view when I’m trying on new ideas.

 Are you a plotter or a pantser?

I have always been a pantser. Since I started writing seriously nothing has been plotted. Very few character notes and no series bible. I’m not sure how I got through lol. My new series requires a lot of world building and an overall arch. I’ve been doing character profiles and lots of notes. It’s new to me and I’m not sure how it will all work out. I do love to follow my tangents and that will probably never change. But it’s also been nice to know where I am going.

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

Yes! I’ve always been drawn to the paranormal. There is something to be said about being able to escape into a world that is so different than our own. And a little bit of difference makes life interesting.

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

When I first started writing I knew that my books would have some kind of romance in them. I did some research and found Romance Writers of America. I think it is the largest professional writers group out there. Not only do they have chapters all across the country where you can learn about craft and publishing but they also advocate for their members, have online classes and have started a program that matches up critique partners. It has been paramount to any successes I have had. I highly recommend it. I have also been a member of Sisters in Crime, an organization that is dedicated to mystery writers. It is a fun group and I learned a lot from them as well. One time we did a meeting at a shooting range so we could pester the instructor about guns and how to use them and then I got to shoot up a zombie paper target. I still have it and have begged my husband to hang it up in the garage since no one will let me hang it in the house. J

 What advice can you offer to anyone deciding to self-publish?

Just do it! Make sure you get an editor and a professional cover design. A lot of people format their own books but it is a pain and if it isn’t done well you will get a lousy reviews. In my opinion it is worth it to hire a formatter or someone who has done it successfully before.

 EXCERPT

SUCKING IN SAN FRANCISCO

 CHAPTER 1

LILITH

             “Suicide Prevention, this is Lilith, how can I help you?”

“Hi. Is this where I call to get drugs for anxiety?” a slightly blurred voice asks.

“No ma’am. This is the number you call if you’re having thoughts about harming yourself.”

I try to keep my voice professional as I stare at my featureless grey carpeted cubicle and Formica desk.

“Oh. Oh, I am. I really need the meds, you know, like Xanax? It’s free, right?”

“No ma’am. We can’t help you with that. I can offer you free counseling. Would you like to talk to one of our counselors tomorrow?”

“No, I just want the freaking drugs.”

Click.

Well, so much for caller number one. I hate when we get callers like that. I can’t do anything for them. I know they have problems, just not ones I can help with. We have to keep a complete account of every phone call. I’d rather stick bamboo shoots under my fingernails than do the paper work. As I fill out my log I see my supervisor stalking me… great.

“Lilith, oh Lily…”

“Yes, Meredith?” I say, head down, rolling my eyes.

“Did you fill out your insurance forms yet? You know that if you don’t you can’t get your medical.”

“Ummm, I don’t need medical.” I really don’t need medical.

“Lily, what is this on your desk?” Her voice rises. “You know we can’t have anything personal on our desks. You’re going to have to remove all this stuff.” She sniffs. Her short, chubby self, quivering with outrage.

“It’s only cleaning supplies, Meredith, some handi-wipes and Lysol. I don’t see how this is personal.”

“If you get cleaning supplies then Dan gets pictures of his kids. Remove them.”

I see Dan covertly slide his pictures off his desk out the corner of my eye. At least someone escapes the wrath of Meredith.

She walks away.

Just love her. With all my unbeating heart. I put my supplies in my bag for easy access. It will give me something to tweet about. She doesn’t follow me on Twitter so I can rant. If I didn’t love and feel so strongly about what I do, I’d use those cleaning supplies on her.

The grey painted walls, a school locker grey, not a warm grey or a lovely taupe, do nothing for the beautiful Victorian building where I work. Almost like they try to make it as depressing as possible.

Being among the cubicles, sometimes it’s hard to concentrate on my calls, even with my superior hearing, with all the other calls going on around me. But this is where I come three nights a week to do something that makes me feel good about myself.

The lines are busy tonight. I finish my notes and my line blinks again.

“Suicide Prevention, this is Lilith, how may I help you?”

“Hello dear, it’s Mrs. Gunderson. How are you tonight?”

“Hello, Mrs. Gunderson, I’m fine. How are you feeling? How is Sprinkles?”

“Mr. Sprinkles and I are feeling rather blue. My son was supposed to come and visit today and he canceled at the last minute. He said he had something come up at work. I haven’t seen him in months. It’s always something with him. You’d think he’d want to see his mother.”

“I’m sorry Mrs. Gunderson. That must have been very disappointing. How is Mr. Sprinkles taking it?” Mr. Sprinkles is code for Mrs. Gunderson. She describes his symptoms and I translate them into hers. She’s a long time caller, lonely and often needing to talk. I want to have a serious conversation with her delinquent son.

“Well, Mr. Sprinkles isn’t eating and he is having a hard time sleeping. I’m worried about him.”

“I am too, Mrs. Gunderson. Can you and Mr. Sprinkles come in and talk to one of our doctors?”

“Oh, I don’t know about that…”

“I think it would help Mr. Sprinkles sleep better and maybe start eating again. I’m so worried about him.”

“You’re such a sweet girl. I’ll talk to them just for you.”

BIO

Jessica McBrayer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. She’s been writing her whole life and has seven books published through Mess of Geckos Publishing. Jessica has done everything from marketing, social work, public speaking and been a stay at home mom. She is a member of Romance Writers of America.
Contact her at: jessica.mcbrayer@gmail.com

Follow her on twitter: @jessimcbrayer

Visit her website www.jessicamcbrayer.com

Find me on Face Book – Jessica McBrayer

Carol is offering a giveaway of her book, Always. This can be either an e-copy (International) or a print  (US only) book, whichever the reader prefers. So be sure and leave her a comment to be entered into the drawing.

Tell us about yourself.

I am both a romance writer and a therapist. I married when I was nineteen and went on to earn my degrees. The really amazing thing is that I still both love and like my husband. We went to grad school together and now work in the same practice. Never let anyone tell you relationships are easy. They can be, however, very rewarding.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be, and why?

I’m a big city girl. My husband grew up in western New Jersey. He’s way more tolerant of small town life. He teases me about living in the back of beyond someday. I’d go nuts. I have a daughter finishing her residency in ER in Brooklyn. We love visiting her and we get the bonus of spending time in New York. My adventurous husband enjoys us navigating the subway system there.

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

I write contemporary romance mostly because that’s what I read. I love reading and writing about couples finding their way to connection in relationships. It’s my thing. In my other job as a therapist, I get to help people work through relationship conflicts. I think relationships can be maddening, but they help us find the best in ourselves.

Tell us about your current series/WIP.

I’m currently writing the second in my up-coming series Blue Collar Boys. My heroes—Case, Noah and Tyler–run an architectural salvage yard. They take apart old buildings, saving what they can. These items are then sold as building materials or are repurposed into other items. The brothers work with their hands, as well as, their brains. The first three books in the series will be coming out in October, November and December of 2015.

What inspired your latest book?

To be honest, I watch a lot of home improvement television….

What is your favorite part of writing?

Characterization is my favorite part of writing. I love words and I love using them to craft people who come alive

How does your family feel about your writing career?

Ironically, I have an extended family that doesn’t read much. My husband—also a therapist—loves sports. He reads about sports, but no fiction. He completely supports my writing, though, and he is convinced that I’m brilliant. My daughters are also very supportive of my writing. After determined effort on my part to help them deal with reading issues as kids, they are now both readers—to my very great relief. One is a medical doctor and the other will soon graduate with her Ph.D. in psychology.

Do you write under a pen name? Why or why not? How did you choose it?

I write under a pen name because of my dual careers. I don’t ever use clients or their information in my books, but I don’t want them worrying about that.

Where can readers find your books? Print/Ebook?

I have a website and my work is listed on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Ibooks and Smashwords. My older books can be found in print, as can some of my newer titles.

Are you participating in any reader contests?

I usually run a monthly contest on Fresh Fiction and often run contests on my blog.

Do you have any upcoming FREE promotions you would like to tell us about?

My book, Hating Christmas, is free through the month of January.

 EXCERPT From ALWAYS by Carol Rose

One 

All the rough spots in Elinor Prescott’s life could be traced back to the same source: money. And here she stood, face-to-face with it.

Across the street, the pale, gleaming limousine sat arrogantly ensconced in the No Parking zone in front of town hall. A highly polished symbol of conspicuous consumption that stood out in the small town of Bayville, Louisiana, like a diamond amidst pebbles.

Elinor felt her hackles rise. No doubt about it, Cole Whittier had come back home with a splash.

She punched the crossing button on the utility pole again, willing the signal light to change. Everything seemed to be conspiring against her today. Even the early-afternoon air held an unusual winter bite, tugging at her skirt and slicing through her sweater. If that darned light didn’t change soon, she’d be late for the council meeting.

She didn’t even know the man, but she wasn’t happy with Cole Whittier. Because of him, the grapevine had buzzed all morning, the phone interrupting her work repeatedly. Clients called on the slim pretext of checking their tax records from 2009, and friends called on no pretext at all.

The light changed, and Elinor hoisted her bulky briefcase, stalking across the intersection.

“Mornin’, Miss Elinor!” An elderly lady waited on the other curb, her wrinkled face bright with excitement. “You goin’ to the council meeting?”

Elinor sighed to herself. The last thing she wanted to hear was more speculation about Millionaire Whittier. But she didn’t have the heart to snap at Mrs. Thibadeaux.

“Yes, ma’am,” Elinor responded. “I am.”

“I hear that sweet boy, Cole Whittier, is in town.” The elderly woman sighed gustily. “He always was such a gentleman.”

“So I hear.” Elinor smiled, shifting her briefcase to her other hand.

Mrs. Thibadeaux leaned forward conspiratorially. “They say he has lots and lots of money these days,” she said in lowered tones. “Did you see that beautiful car?”

A sudden gust of wind sliced through Elinor’s sweater. “Yes, ma’am, I did,” she said, shivering as she glanced in the direction of Mrs. Thibadeaux’s nod.

The older woman clutched her coat tighter. “My, my, that wind’s terrible. You should be gettin’ inside, honey. I’m sure the meetin’ will be starting anytime.”

“I know,” Elinor said, a hint of irony in her voice as she waved goodbye and turned to walk swiftly to the town hall.

The whole town was buzzing with the news. Hometown boy Cole Whittier was back, and he’d come back a millionaire. The gossips seemed to forget that Elinor hadn’t lived in Bayville when Cole Whittier had gone off to seek his fortune fourteen years ago.

She’d only come back to her father’s hometown two years before, and only then because her mother had died. Respect for Mama’s feelings had kept her far from Bayville, but with Mama gone, she’d felt rootless. Coming back to the place that had sheltered her father’s family for generations had seemed a natural choice. Seeking out her grandfather, her only living relative, couldn’t hurt Mama now.

The small, unremarkable town of Bayville in northeastern Louisiana had felt like home, even though she’d only visited here once before. And now, for the first time after throwing herself headlong into community life, Elinor felt a twinge of regret. She wasn’t looking forward to today’s town council meeting.

The last thing she wanted to do was watch Mayor Stephens making a fool of himself drooling all over Cole Whittier’s millions.

Buy links–

http://www.amazon.com/Carol-Rose/e/B001KI1OVA/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1421006668&sr=1-2-ent

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/always-carol-rose/1107484983?ean=2940016711560

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/101448

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/always/id481674395?mt=11

 BIO

Carol Rose is an award-winning author of contemporary romances. She has written twenty books, including Always and Forgotten Father. Her books have won numerous awards, including a final in the prestigious Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

Carol is an active member of the North Texas Romance Writers, the Dallas Area Romance Writers and the Yellow Rose chapter. A frequent speaker at writers’ groups and conferences, she has taught workshops on characterization and, creating and resolving conflict. She works full time as a therapist.

Her husband and she married when she was only nineteen and he was barely twenty-one, proving that early marriage can make it, but only if you’re really lucky and persistent. They went through college and grad school together. She not only loves him still, all these years later, she still likes him—which she says is sometimes harder. They have two funny, intelligent and highly accomplished daughters. Carol loves writing and hopes you enjoy reading her work.

www.carolrosebooks.com

www.twitter.com –  carolrose@carolrosebooks

https://www.facebook.com/carol.rose.author

How did you get started writing? I’m an avid reader and always thought I’d like to try writing a novel. I had an idea for a story and when it wouldn’t leave me alone, I sat down and started writing. The first attempt was a time-travel romance written on yellow pads and it was terrible. I came up with another idea and began again. I bought some writing books, took online writing classes, joined a local writing group, bought more writing books, joined RWA, and bought more writing books. I read the writing books in the evening and applied what I learned to my manuscript the next day. My friends (a proofreader and a former journalist) read my work and offered critiques. I rewrote until I had something I could be proud of.

Tell us about your current series. I have two books published in my Caught Series (romantic suspense). Caught in Cross Seas is set in Angel Beach, a fictitious beach town on the Oregon Coast. This story features Harlie Cates, a bakery owner and homeless advocate who wears plaid Converse All Stars, Clay Masterson, a country music superstar who is searching for his missing father, and a serial killer. Book two, Caught in the Spin, was released November 2. It’s set on a cattle ranch outside Nashville and features Clay’s best friend and foster brother, former bull rider Tom Black, and single mom on the run, Tallie Peters. I’m currently writing book three.

Some of the characters in this series are a bit quirky. There is humor, sexy romance with some hot cowboys, and a few serious issues for the reader to chew on. Caught in Cross Seas tackles homelessness, alcoholism, and societal pressure on women. The characters in Caught in Spin deal with domestic violence. Book three (untitled at the moment) will explore survivor’s guilt.

Tell us about your hero. Give us one of his strengths and one of his weaknesses. In my latest release, Tom Black, the hero in Caught in the Spin, is a former champion bull rider. His strength is his competitive nature. When he sets a goal, he goes after it. This is also his weakness. Injuries from a bull riding wreck ended his career and Tom has difficulty dealing with his failure. Twelve years after the accident, Tom still doesn’t want to be reminded of who he was back in his glory days.

Tell us about your heroine. Give us one of her strengths and one of her weaknesses. Tallie Peters, the heroine in Caught in the Spin, is a single mom who is an assistant to one of Nashville’s leading music managers. Her strength is her love for her son. She’ll do anything to protect him from his abusive father. Fear is her weakness. She knows what her ex-husband is capable of and is terrified he will kill her and take her son.

What is your next project and when will it be released? My next book is a stand-alone novel called Tangles and I hope to have it released in late spring.

What inspired this book? Tangles is the story of a man who unexpectedly finds himself in the position of caregiver for his mother who has Alzheimer’s disease. The story was inspired by my husband who found himself in a similar situation when his father was diagnosed with inoperable prostate cancer and at the same time, his mother’s Alzheimer’s disease escalated. We had young children at the time and his parents required 24/7 care. After a particularly rough day, my husband wondered how he’d keep going without losing his mind. He loved his mom but was having difficulty dealing with the disease. I asked him, “Can you imagine being in this situation with someone with whom you didn’t have a good relationship?” and Tangles was born.

How likely are people you meet to end up in your next book? Not likely at all. I may use characteristics of someone I’ve met, but I’d never base a character on a real person. I don’t want real people inhabiting my head for the length of a novel.

What are you reading now? Working Stiff by Annelise Ryan. I love her sense of humor and how she’s created a realistic female sleuth—body image problems and all.

Excerpt | Caught in the Spin

Tallie and Harlie rounded the end of the barn and stopped in a huge pole building bursting with activity. A flatbed hay truck sat alongside the building where a man on a boom truck operated a motorized hook swinging hay bales between the truck bed and barn. Men on top of the haystack caught the bales against their chaps-covered legs using large hooks and set them in place. Tallie watched the hay fly through the air and cringed as the empty hook swung back, sure someone would get hurt. Several moments passed before she realized one of the guys on the stack was the man she needed to see. Clay Masterson was bucking hay.

Despite the shed’s open-air construction, the space inside was stifling and Tallie fanned herself. The truck was almost empty when she caught sight of another man working the stack. With an effortless toss and a push with his thigh, he stacked a bale weighing a hundred and fifty pounds or more, flexing well-formed shoulder muscles. The job completed, he chucked his leather gloves aside and ran his hands through his straight, midnight-black hair, pushing it from his face. Even though he was sweaty and covered in chaff, Tallie couldn’t stop staring—maybe even because of it. His damp shirt stuck to the angles and lines of his body. The temperature around Tallie jumped a notch and she couldn’t blame the weather.

Clay grabbed a handful of hay and dumped it on the man’s head, causing him to utter a few good-natured expletives. Clay laughed and dodged before his smiling victim could retaliate.

“That is the finest-looking man I’ve ever seen,” Tallie said with an appreciative sigh. Harlie laughed and Tallie covered her red cheeks with her hands. “Did I say that out loud?”

“You did. Which one are you talking about?”

Tallie looked up, her eyes drifting back to him. “The dark-haired one. Not that I don’t think your husband is handsome,” she quickly added. “But I’m not ill-mannered enough to drool over him when I’m standing next to you.”

“It’s okay if you did,” Harlie said with the smile of a confident woman. “I’m getting used to it. And I agree with you that both of them are enjoyable to look at. I’ve often wondered if Montana produced any ugly boys.” She laughed. “It looks like they’re done with the truck. I’ll introduce you.”

Amazon Link for Caught in the Spin:  http://amzn.com/0991589025

Amazon Link for Caught in Cross Seas:  http://amzn.com/0991589009

**ON SALE NOW** Caught in Cross Seas Kindle version is currently on sale for .99 cents

www.sharleenscott.com

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