My latest full length novel, The Highland Lass, is the book of my heart as it means such a lot to me, both for its setting and its time-split storyline. For the first time, I set a novel almost completely around my own beautiful area of Scotland and that immediately gave it a deeper level of authenticity, rather than having to imagine the places where my characters interacted. Obviously, this was even easier for the contemporary story as I had walked in these areas myself. The short alternate historical chapters are set in the eighteenth century and it was surprisingly easy to imagine life in those times, especially in one particular area.

The Highland Lass was greatly inspired by the story of Robert Burns and his Highland Mary, which I had researched and written about in an article some years ago for The Highlander magazine in the USA. Most people know that Burns is our national bard here in Scotland and that he was a famous womaniser as well as a wonderful poet and writer of Auld Lang Syne. Highland Mary is buried in my home town and their story has fascinated me since childhood. Burns himself wrote about his Highland Lass in several poems with such an air of regret and guilt that I knew their ill-fated love story would make a good subject for a romance.

After writing the non-fiction article about them, my imagination was fired and I was eager to fictionalise Mary’s voice and write part of the story from her point of view. However, I didn’t think there were enough facts about them to sustain a book set completely in the 18th century. Since I love to read split-time stories, I decided to write a contemporary story about family secrets and a link to the past, through Eilidh Campbell, a possible ancestress of Highland Mary. Her love story with Lewis Grant is alternated with short historical chapters told in Highland Mary’s voice in the 18^th century.

My picturesque area of the west coast of Scotland also provided much of the inspiration, especially with Highland Mary buried in the town cemetery, and she was born just across the River Clyde in Dunoon, Argyllshire which is partly in the highlands. The villages of Ayrshire (further south) where Mary met Burns, have hardly changed in many respects and I was even able to sit in the very inn, Poosie Nancie’s, where Burns and his friends used to drink in the 18^th century. Another location used in the contemporary part of the novel is Loch Lomond which is only about half an hour from my home and which constantly inspires my romantic imagination. There are even a couple of scenes in Glasgow, my nearest vibrant city with its wonderful architecture and friendly people.

It has been a dream come true to see this story finally published in ebook and print and its popularity so far has made the wait worthwhile. Perhaps there’s something to be said for writing and publishing other books and stories before this one, as most writers improve with each book. Or perhaps it meant so much to me that I was reluctant to send this ‘baby’ out into the world for fear it wouldn’t be loved as much as I hoped. Fortunately, my fears have been unfounded (so far!) and The Highland Lass continues to be the book of my heart. I’ve also learned a valuable lesson: that setting can be as much a character as people at times.

Blurb

Eilidh Campbell returns to her Scottish roots from America with one main aim: to discover the identity of her real father. But her mother’s past in Inverclyde is a mystery with family secrets, a book of Robert Burns’ poems with a hidden letter and a photograph link to the Holy Loch at Dunoon when the American Navy were in residence.

Staying with her childhood friend, Kirsty, while searching for answers, Eilidh begins to fall in love with handsome Scot Lewis Grant, but just how free is he? Together they trace the story of Highland Mary and Robert Burns, with its echoes to her mother’s story. In short alternate chapters, Highland Mary tells her own story from 1785-6. From Dunoon, to Ayrshire and culminating in Greenock, Eilidh finds the past is closer than she realises.

Excerpt from one of the historical chapters

“And are you well, sir?” I cannot ask right out about Jean Armour but I hope he might give some sign of having put her from mind.

“Well enough, thank you, especially for having seen your lovely face again.”

So he is not pining after Jean too much, or he is hiding it well. Or perhaps he cannot help being of a flirtatious nature, since he’s so admired by many. I should think him vain except for the fact he writes such far-seeing words, if what I hear is true.

I smile at his flattery and do not reply. I’d rather find out more about his poetry.

“And you still write such good verse, I hope, sir?” I cannot bring myself to call him by his name.

He stops at that and looks at me strangely, as though surprised I should talk of it. “All the time, when work allows, Mary. I have hopes of having a collection published one day. It’s hard work keeping the farm going and it’s something to dream of. And what are your dreams, if I may ask, Mary Campbell?”

I shrug, for truly I have not thought of many things. “To be happy and to be loved, I think.”

He laughs. “The one does not necessarily go with the other.” His words sound slightly bitter. Or perhaps I imagine that he speaks of Jean Armour.

Then he looks me full in the eyes. “But I should not think you’ll have trouble in being loved.”

I do not realise we are so close as we walk, but now his nearness makes the fine hairs on my arms stand on end. And before I can answer or guess at his intentions, he reaches over and kisses my parted lips.

My reaction is swift. I step back in confusion.

“Forgive me, Mistress Campbell, but you look so sweet with your concerned blue eyes. I forget myself.”

My heart has returned to its normal beat, but I cannot look at him. His kiss will linger in my mind far longer than the quick touch on my lips. But I don’t want his teasing, or his dalliance with a willing maid, or even his attempts at banishing another from his mind. The only way I will allow myself to be his, is if he is ever fully mine. And that day has not yet come, if ever it might.

“I must go now, sir,” I say, without looking at him. I walk away, my body on fire.

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Author Bio

 Rosemary Gemmell lives in the beautiful west coast of Scotland and is a published historical and contemporary novelist for adults (as Romy) and writes for the Middle Grade age group as Ros. The Highland Lass is the first novel under her full name. Her short stories, articles and occasional poems have been published in UK magazines, in the US, and online. She has a Post-graduate Masters in literature and history and is a member of the Society of Authors, the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Scottish Associations of Writers. She loves to dance!

Links

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TOTER6Q

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00TOTER6Q

Website: http://www.rosemarygemmell.com

Blog: http://ros-readingandwriting.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RosemaryGemmell

Facebook (as Romy Gemmell): https://www.facebook.com/pages/Romy-Gemmell/1422387704702586

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/rosgemmell/

Trailer: http://youtu.be/YPo8Tk-xlXE

Thank you so much for having me, Cindy!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a southern girl living on top of a mountain in North Georgia, and I’m most happy when surrounded by family and friends. If I am not writing, you can find me hiking with my husband, or fiddling around in my flower and vegetable gardens, feeding the birds and watching black bears and deer. I am blessed to have a wonderful son—my pride and joy, my buddy who, along with my husband, have made my life complete.

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

I like most any kind of romance novel, but my heart has always been drawn to the medieval period, particularly in Scotland, Ireland, and England. That said, I plan to write stories spanning the early Middle Ages through the American Civil War. While my books are fiction, each one is based on historical facts, and you will often see known figures such as William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, or The Red Comyn make guest appearances. All my stories revolve around human struggles, sacrifices survivors are forced to make, and their resilience to live and thrive.

Tell us about your heroes and heroines. 

I have always admired strong women who can take care of themselves, fight for what they believe in, and who don’t give a whit about social norms. But women’s femininity and their softer side are equally important. My female heroines have a mixture of both. They are independent, but their hearts are complete with their beloved heroes.

My perfect hero is ruggedly handsome. His presence commands respect, and he is held in utmost esteem by his men. Hardened, he bears scars from battle and…from prior relationships. Although, a touch of danger surrounds him, he cares for his lady and treats her like a queen, lavishing her with his love.

What are your favorite parts and least favorite parts of writing?

Throwing my imagination into years gone by, researching dark periods of strife and violence, justice and quests for freedom, and dreaming of what it might have been like to live and survive during these hostile periods have been the most fascinating aspects of writing historical romance.

My Daughters of Alastair MacDougall series begins in May 1297, a time of unrest between Scotland and England. It has been such fun to research this period and imagine living amongst the clans.

My least favorite part of writing would be editing. Fortunately, I have a wonderful editor!

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

I don’t spend as much time as I should promoting my books. I do enjoy Facebook as I have met some awesome readers and made some wonderful friends through that social media. Every day I post things I think readers will enjoy, and I try to keep them informed on what I’m working on. I love having Facebook parties. It is such fun meeting everyone, and it’s the main way I promote my books.

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

Six years ago, I dipped my toe in the writing world with Romance Writers of America. Through that membership, I joined romance writers’ organizations Hearts Through History, Celtic Hearts, and From the Heart. I served as Treasurer of Hearts Through History for a couple years and became actively involved in the chapter. It was during that time when I joined the critique group. I met some amazing authors who have become good friends. They have helped me tremendously! I wouldn’t be writing if it wasn’t for their wonderful support and encouragement.

What do you have planned for the future?

I’m plotting another series that branches off my daughters’ series. I have a number of secondary characters in my books who beg to have a story of their own.

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

Without a doubt, the most rewarding thing about writing is receiving readers’ comments. If they like my stories and they let me know, I am dancing a few inches off the ground for days. I also love hearing what readers would like to see in future series.

Tell us a little about your latest book.

My DAUGHTERS OF ALASTAIR MACDOUGALL series begins in May 1297, a time of unrest between Scotland and England. It has been such fun to research this period and imagine living amongst the clans.

ELSBETH is the fourth and youngest of the daughters. I’m really excited her story will be released on October 1^st!  Here’s a little about her book.

Elsbeth recoils at the violent Scottish rebellion and the bleak plight of orphans. After losing her betrothed in the conflict, she sets her course to become a nun, sheltering innocent victims from the cruelties of war. But when Brandon arrives at the abbey, he shakes her convictions and stirs provoking emotions she buried long ago.

After English soldiers murder his family, Brandon seeks revenge and leads numerous clans in Scotland’s fight for freedom. Bent on the annihilation of English oppression, he is resolved to a life of solitude, vowing never to marry and chance the pain of losing loved ones again. Elsbeth realizes not only children are affected by war, but stalwart warriors are also hurt and abandoned. She longs to heal Brandon’s spirit, help him live again, and prays she can reach him before the damage already done has set in stone.

Here’s an excerpt from Elsbeth.

In this scene, Brandon McLeod and his men have arrived at the abbey after the English soldiers had attacked.

Images of the courtyard swirled through Elsbeth’s head. Had she been daft to preach peace, to hope for an accord with England? McLeod had called her naïve. No doubt he considered her foolish.

The door creaked, and she glanced toward the noise. The commander marched into the room. Damp hair brushed his wide shoulders. His shirt lay open at the neck, and dark curls peeked from the opening. He no longer wore leather bracers. Instead, he had rolled up his shirt sleeves, exposing muscular forearms smattered with black hair.

He strode to her side. “Did ye wish to search the bedchambers now?”

“Aye.” She laid Lena on the mattress alongside Bea and ran her hand over the lass’s soft tresses. The little one curled up, her sleepy eyes heavy.

When Elsbeth stood, Brandon extended his arm toward the door. “After ye.”

She crossed the room, and the two walked down the dim corridor in silence. Sconces’ flames flickered in an evening breeze. They passed stone lattice windows overlooking the courtyard. Little white crosses set before dozens of soil mounds lined the interior. Men moved amongst the freshly dug earth, some carrying draped bundles that she assumed contained bodies, while others shoveled dirt. The somber abbey’s blackened walls stained with innocents’ blood creaked and moaned, seemingly grieving over the tragic loss.

Elsbeth’s throat clogged. She wrapped her arms about herself and hurried to the children’s chamber. She stepped into the room and paused. The rustic table and chairs lay in pieces, the torn mattresses smoldered, and the orphan’s clothes had been strewn about the room. She picked up a soot streaked gown Morgana often wore and shook it out as she reached for a tattered tunic at her feet.

Brandon found a cloth sack, and he stuffed a pair of trews inside. “Place the items in here.”

After stashing the clothes, her foot kicked a hard sharp object. She stooped, and her fingers closed around Alainne’s drawing slate. The cold stone the lass had so proudly adorned had been broken into several large fragments.

Elsbeth’s chest tightened, and her eyes stung. Balanced on the balls of her feet, she hugged the fragment to her and bowed her head. She’d held up, had been strong until this moment. After all she’d experienced—killing a man while trying to protect the children and witnessing the abbey’s demise under the fiends’ brutality—this wee broken picture brought her to tears.

Strong hands clasped her shoulders and coaxed her to stand. The commander’s palms slid down her arms. “Ye need not hold it in, Sister.”

Something about his words gave her the liberty to abandon the emotional restraint she’d latched onto. Before she knew what she was about, she turned into him, and he folded his arms about her, holding her against him.

She closed her eyes, and tears streamed down her cheeks. Brandon placed his head on top of hers and secure warmth flowed through her core. Her arms eased around his waist, his body tensed, and his muscles grew taut. Afraid he’d break the embrace, she stilled and breathed in his comforting scent of pine and smoke.

No words were spoken. None were necessary. Somehow this fierce warrior had reached within her and had given her the comfort she desperately needed.

Where can readers find you?

I love to hear from readers! Here is my email address: mcfarland.lane@gmail.com

Website:  http://lanemcfarland.com

FaceBook:  https://www.facebook.com/LaneMcFarlandAuthor

Twitter:  @LaneMcFarland

Where can readers find your books? Here is my author page. You’ll find my books listed here.

http://www.amazon.com/Lane-McFarland/e/B00G7UQZNI/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

Tell us about your current series. Three ancient Celtic families. A magical Bloodstone that enables the wearers to shape shift. A charge to use the stone’s power to benefit mankind, and a battle, that is going on even today, to control the world. Can the Secret Society of shape shifters called the Turning Stone Society heal itself and bring peace to our world? Find out in The Series The Turning Stone Chronicles.

The Promised One, book one:

When homicide detective Alexi Jordan is forced to use her shape shifting powers to catch a paranormal killer, she risks the two most important things in her life—her badge and the man she loves.

Blood Brothers, book two:

Shape shifter Delaney Ramsey’s daughter is missing, and she is bound by honor to protect the man she suspects of the deed. To bring him to justice, she must go against her code, the leader of the secret shifter society, and the police captain she is falling for.

Son of the Moonless Night, book three:

Thrust back into the world of paranormal huntress, Deputy Coroner Katrina Romanovski must unravel a string of murders she believes are vampire attacks. When she discovers the shape shifter she’s in love with is the murderer, she must reconcile her feelings for him, examine her life of violence against paranormals, and justify deceiving him in order to bring him to justice.

How likely are people you meet to end up in your next book? They might not end up but some characteristic might. Catherine has a list of interesting physical characteristics of people that she likes to work into a characters profile. If you have an interesting name we might use that, too.

Give us an elevator pitch for your book. Thrust back into the world of paranormal huntress, Deputy Coroner Katrina Romanovski must unravel a string of murders she believes are vampire attacks. When she discovers the shape shifter she’s in love with is the murderer, she must reconcile her feelings for him, examine her life of violence against paranormals, and justify deceiving him in order to bring him to justice.

Do you have a view in your writing space? What does your space look like? We both have views. Catherine’s office overlooks the front flower garden and Donald’s the back garden. Our spaces are full of books, very cluttered, and Donald’s desk has two computer monitors for when we do editing and revisions.

Has your muse always known what genre you would write and be published in? Our muse in confused as we have numerous story ideas that we’d like to work on after our urban fantasy/paranormal romance series is finished. The one thing the muse is certain of is that there will always be a hint of romance. Hence our brand line “Two Hearts Creating Everlasting Love Stories.”

Tell us a little about yourself and your latest book. We’re high school sweethearts and husband and wife writing team. We’ve written separately since we were teenagers and discovered our unique, collaborative abilities in the mid-90s after writing drama for our church. Our latest book is the third installment in The Turning Stone Chronicle Series, Son of the Moonless Night.

Do you write under a pen name? Why or why not? Yes we do. Hersh is an abbreviated form of our real name. The C stands for Catherine and the D stands for Donald. We use the abbreviation because it fits on the book cover better.

Do you have any rejection stories to share? Catherine got a rejection letter that said “We’re sending this back to you with out thanks.” She’s glad they rejected it since they couldn’t even catch their own typo.

What is your writing routine like? As co-authors we talk about an idea until we both have a good grasp of what is happening. Then Donald puts it in scene format with any research notes. Then Catherine begins the first draft which is edited by Donald at the end of the day. When the first draft is complete we go back over again using the double monitors in Donald’s office, adding missing elements, and taking out all the bad stuff. When that’s done we read it out loud.

Excerpt:

A crash in the alley stopped Katrina Romanovski mid-stride. Like the October mist swirling in off the lake, her gypsy blood stirred sending her intuition into high gear. Something unnatural was happening.

Go see what’s wrong. She heard her father’s voice as clearly as if he stood next to her.

On the heels of his words came her mother’s pragmatic warning in clipped British tones. You know what curiosity killed. Katrina pushed the ever-present warning aside. Mom never approved of Dad’s supernatural hunts and even less of his drawing her into them.

Pulling the oversized cross she always wore out from under her shirt, Kat looked around for a weapon. Please, not a vampire. I hate vampires! A piece of wood sticking out of the trashcan at the front of the alley caught her eye.

Grabbing it, she broke the end off into a sharp point. The mist-filled air filtered the light from the single bulb over one of the alley doorways. The wind swirled the loose trash around making a quiet approach difficult. Sidestepping the paper, with the stake in one hand and holding the gun she took from her purse in the other hand, she crept into the alley.

A roar echoed against the buildings, the sound nearly sending her running. That roar wasn’t a vampire. It sounded more like an animal. Kat inched closer. In the yellow pool of light from the back door of the building, a black bear, over seven feet tall, reared on its back legs and swung its paw at the man standing at the edge of the light. He crashed to the ground, shirt torn open from the slashing claws. Blood covered the fabric, and he clasped his left hand over his shoulder to stem the flow. The bear bent toward him, teeth bared in a smile. A wicked smile.

Kat aimed her gun, but before she could pull the trigger, a shot rang out. The flash of gunpowder lit the face of the injured man. The blast reverberated against the buildings. With an enraged bellow, the bear staggered backward against the wall. Shaking his head, the animal dropped to all four paws. Weaving like a drunk, he lumbered toward his attacker. The man took aim again, shooting the animal between the eyes. Animal and human collapsed on the dirty, littered pavement.

As she started to move forward, Kat’s gypsy senses crawled over her skin like angry red ants. As she slipped back into the shadows, the bear shed fur. Changing size. Then, finally, turning into a man.

Shape shifters. Her stake wasn’t any good against them, and her bullets weren’t silver. This one appeared dead anyway. Had the wounded man seen the shift? Tossing the stake aside, she paused by the shifter and quickly moved to the wounded man. Out cold. Still human.

When she touched him, his eyelids fluttered open. “Did I get it?”

“What?”

“The bear.”

Amazon buy links:

The Promised One (The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 1):

eBook: http://amzn.com/B00DUMODKI

paperback: http://amzn.com/1619353504

Blood Brothers (The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 2):

eBook: http://amzn.com/B00OVNFC8W

paperback: http://amzn.com/1619358271

Son of the Moonless Night (The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 3):

eBook: http://amzn.com/B00XK3E172

Bio:

Putting words and stories on paper is second nature to co-authors C.D. Hersh. They’ve written separately since they were teenagers and discovered their unique, collaborative abilities in the mid-90s. As high school sweethearts and husband and wife, Catherine and Donald believe in true love and happily ever after.

Together they have co-authored a number of dramas, six which have been produced in Ohio, where they live. Their interactive Christmas production had five seasonal runs in their hometown and has been sold in Virginia, California, and Ohio. Their most recent collaborative writing efforts have been focused on romance. The first three books of their paranormal romance series entitled The Turning Stone Chronicles are available on Amazon.

Where you can find CD:

Website: http://cdhersh.wordpress.com/

Blog: http://cdhersh.wordpress.com/blog-2/

Soul Mate Publishing: http://smpauthors.wordpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cdhershauthor

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/C.-D.-Hersh/e/B00DV5L7ZI

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorCDHersh

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/CDHersh

What inspired your latest book?

Donna: I love the time I’ve spent on the coast of Maine, especially in the more sparsely populated areas downeast, so it’s been a personal joy to get to write about a place that’s so dear to me.  In SNOWFLAKE BAY, I got to bring another part of my life into the books, too, which was an extra treat.  The hero in this book, Ben Campbell, runs his family-owned Christmas tree farm.  I know a little something about that as my family had a Christmas tree farm when I was younger.  It was great fun getting to think back on those family memories and blend that part of my past with the present storyline of the book.

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

Donna: There is one McCrae sister left in the fold!  Kerry McCrae gets her happily ever after in STARFISH MOON, which comes out spring of 2016.  It was fun getting to not only tell her story, but to wrap up the Blueberry Cove series and give readers one last update on their favorite characters.

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

Donna: Not likely at all.  I don’t write about any one real person, or even parts of real people.  It’s true that the cumulative knowledge gained from meeting all kinds of people, of all ages, from all walks of life, helps to inform me about what makes a person tick, or what inspires someone to do what they do, but all that is funneled into the big pool of knowledge I draw from when creating characters.  They are simply more people I come to know and love, just like meeting new people in real life.  The real people in our lives are each unique and unlike anyone else we already know.  My characters are the same.  So, you’re safe with me!  I promise! J

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

Donna: I was very fortunate.  I joined a great local writer’s group – the Washington Romance Writers, my local RWA chapter – and jumped right in and got involved with them as I was writing my first book.  I made a lot of industry contacts, and learned a little bit on how to polish my work.  I was lucky in that the group had a lot of published authors who shared not only their invaluable insight, but also helped guide me on where to pitch my work.  I did a lot of networking and through that found my agent, and pitched the first book I finished – and it sold!  That was more than twenty years ago now (my how time flies!) and I’ve been under contract ever since.

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

Donna:  I live in the Blue Ridge mountains in the western part of Virginia, between the Shenandoah National Park and the Shenandoah River, just a hop and skip from West Virginia.  It’s beautiful up here in all seasons, peaceful, lots of wild birds, deer, and yes, bears.  The view is always inspiring.  I moved here for exactly that reason and it hasn’t disappointed me yet!

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

Donna: Always.  I read all kinds of fiction, but my favorites always have a satisfying relationship in them.  I’m a happily ever after kind of girl, no matter if it’s solving the crime or saving the world, but it’s so much more fun when there’s romance involved!  So, there was never any doubt about what kinds of stories I would tell.  Fortunately, that muse is still just as strong today as it ever was.  And, even better, I’ve been able to tell stories that incorporate mystery, suspense, paranormal elements, all under the bigger umbrella of romance.  Win-win, really!

What do you have planned for the future?

Donna:  With STARFISH MOON, the last Brides of Blueberry Cove novel, completed and coming out next spring, I am now getting started on a book set here in the Blue Ridge mountains.  BLUE HOLLOW FALLS is a story I’ve been waiting to tell and I’m beyond excited to finally get to sink into it and get to know a new town, new people, new friends.

How far do you plan ahead?

Donna:  I have been writing small town mini-series for some time now, and usually have an idea for each group as I start planning each trilogy.  Beyond that, I have more future ideas than I can count, all of which I’m excited to tell.  Usually it’s the one that is making the most noise while I’m trying to focus on the current works in progress, that eventually wins out and becomes the new series or stand alone book.

Excerpt…Snowflake Bay by Donna Kauffman

“Did you sign the papers?  Dot every i, cross every t?”  Kerry asked the moment Fiona entered the Rusty Puffin, not pausing as she continued to wipe down the bar.

“I did,” Fiona told her.  “As of this morning at about ten, Beanie’s Fat Quarters is all mine.” She hiked herself up on a stool and leaned her elbows on the freshly gleaming cypress bar.  “I even had the chance to go by and talk to Eula.”

And, actually, her visit to Eula’s was every bit as much the reason for her giddy mood, thanks to the moment she’d had in Eula’s shop with Ben Campbell.  Specifically the moment she’d taken off her coat and glanced at him in time to catch that rather pole-axed look on his face.  It was quite possible it hadn’t meant that he’d just looked at her as a woman for the very first time, rather than a short, plump annoying kid sister, but she was going to choose to believe that’s exactly what had happened.  And she was going to wrap up that moment in a shiny gold bow, and pull it out and open it up every time she needed a little boost.  Because that look on his handsome face had made it almost worth—almost—every single moment of adolescent torment he’d put her through.

“You’re looking rather cat and canary,” Kerry said.  “More cat, less canary.” She pulled two wine glasses out from under the bar and filled them with champagne.  “So, what’s going on with you and Ben Campbell?”

Fiona wanted to rush in and deny, deny, deny, but she’d watched their older sister Hannah handle Kerry over the years and was proud of herself for taking a page from the lawyer’s handbook.  “What makes you think there’s anything going on between me and Ben?”

Kerry waggled a finger.  “Don’t play cross examiner with me.  You’re no good at it.”

Fiona did the only mature thing possible, she stuck her tongue out.

“Careful where you stick that,” Kerry said, pretending to swipe and snag it. “All I know is Hannah was in here earlier and she might have said something about you being all pissy with Ben over him calling you Fireplug.  You know he doesn’t mean the nickname in a bad way.”

“Yes, yes, he’s St. Ben the Benevolent. Christmas tree farmer, rescuer of parents, all around fabulous human being, Ben Campbell.”

“Here,” Kerry said, handing her a glass.  “Drink”  She raised her own glass in salute, then tossed back the entire glass of champagne in one easy slide.

“I don’t even want to know how you can deep throat an entire glass of champagne.  It’s supposed to be sipped.”

“It’s supposed to be enjoyed,” Kerry said.  “Bottoms up, shopkeeper.”

Fiona made her way to the bottom of her glass, too, albeit in several gulps.

“Okay, so what happened at Eula’s?  Did you tell Ben what you thought of his pet name for you and chop his Campbell Christmas tree down to size?”  She poured more champagne.  “And have you ever spent any time wondering just how, um, stout and tall his pine might be?”

Fiona all but sprayed the sip of bubbly she’d just taken.  “What?”  She folded her arms on the bar, mostly so she stayed steady on the stool.  “No, I did not chop down his tree.  Also?  Ew.  Shame on you.  He’s like your brother.”

“He’s not our brother.  Not even our cousin.  And if you never looked at Ben Campbell and wondered…”  Her eyes widened with glee. “You’ve wondered about his pine.  I think you want his pine.  In fact, I think you want to—“

“Stop it,” Fiona hissed.  She’d just wanted to hold on to her Ben moment and savor it in the privacy of her rejected schoolgirl mind.  Was that too much to ask?  Her pleasant fizziness abruptly dissolved.  “I don’t want anything from Ben, least of all his—“  She broke off, refusing to take that nickname a syllable further.  “It’s true.  I didn’t like hearing that nickname again.  I hated it then, and no matter what the intent behind it, I’m not a big fan of it now.  But then anything designed to belittle someone and make them feel badly about themselves is never going to get a rousing cheer from me.”

Kerry reached her hand out toward her sister.  “Fi, don’t, he’s—“

Fiona pulled her arm out of reach.  “He’s family, I know.  And we’re all grown ups now, so you’re right, it shouldn’t matter.  It was all a long, long time ago.  We were all kids.  Blah, blah, blah.  But some things don’t have an expiration date.  And how that nickname made me feel is apparently one of them.  Especially coming from the one guy who, at the time, I wanted to see me as anything but.”  There, she’d said it.  All but shouted it, actually.  “So you’ll have to forgive me if I still don’t find being called short, fat, and red all that sweet or amusing.”

“No, Fi—wait!”  Kerry made a grab for her arm. “He’s—“

Standing right behind her.  Of course he was.

“Fiona,” was all he said, but the look on his face said a million things more.  All of them awful, because each one of them started with pity and ended with embarrassment.

She’d gotten her moment.  That victorious, full circle moment every kid who’s ever been made to feel bad wanted.  And she’d been good with that.

Unfortunately, the look she’d remember forever, was the one on his face right now.  This was to be her moment.  Why had she ever assumed it would be any different?  The joke, it seemed, was always going to be on her.

Bio:

USA Today bestselling author of the Bachelors of Blueberry Cove series, DONNA KAUFFMAN has been gratified to see her books get rave reviews in venues ranging from Kirkus Reviews and Library Journal to Entertainment Weekly and Cosmopolitan. She lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in western Virginia, where she is presently applying her crafty DIY skills to decorating her new mountainside abode. Well, when she isn’t busy trying to keep the bears from hanging out in her flower and vegetable garden all day and night!  With her new Brides of Blueberry Cove series, Donna’s been having a blast applying those same restoration and design skills to doing some fictional wedding planning. Of course, if that means haunting all those lovely antique shops and flea markets that are so plentiful in her new neck of the woods, well, it’s a sacrifice she’s willing to make. When she’s not finding ways to take her love of all things rustic and vintage and give them a fabulous seaside, coastal Maine wedding party twist, she loves to hear from readers!  You can contact her through her website at www.donnakauffman.com.

Links:

Website: www.donnakauffman.com

Blog: www.donnakauffman.com/blog

Buy: www.donnakauffman.com/snowflake-bay

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

Two years ago, I started writing the Rodeo Romance series with The Christmas Cowboy. In November, the third book in the series will release during a weeklong event I’m putting together to promote the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.  November 1 through December 24, ten percent of the net proceeds from all my book sales are donated to the JCCF. It’s the third year I’ve done the donation and I like being able to give something back to the sport that provides the backdrop for this series. Pre-orders are available now for Capturing Christmas . The book releases November 12.

Please tell my readers a little bit about the new release. 

Capturing Christmas was an incredibly fun story for me to write. I’m just loopy over the two main characters. Both of them are stubborn, determined, and completely unprepared when love catches them by surprise. Here’s the official blurb:

Life is hectic on a good day for rodeo stock contractor Kash Kressley. Between dodging flying hooves and babying cranky bulls, he barely has time to sleep. The last thing Kash needs is the entanglement of a sweet romance, especially with a woman as full of fire and sass as the redheaded photographer he rescues at a rodeo.

Determined to capture the best images possible, rodeo photographer Celia McGraw is fearless and feisty. Not one to back down from a challenge, her biggest risk isn’t in her work. Danger lurks in the way her heart responds to one incredibly handsome stock contractor.

Any other new projects?

I’m also working on the fourth book in the Hardman Holidays series. It will also release in November.  When I embarked on the adventure of writing my first sweet Victorian holiday romance, I debated using a real town for the setting or making one up. I wanted the story to take place in Eastern Oregon, but where? I came across information about a ghost town named Hardman that had once been a stop along the stage route.

My curiosity led me to discover that Hardman, Oregon, once boasted several churches, a newspaper office, and skating rink, along with a variety of other businesses. Today, there are a handful of dilapidated old buildings in Hardman, but the bones of those old structures help me picture what the town once looked like, back when it was a bustling town.

As my imagination created the town in my head, my fingers began typing out the first story in the Hardman Holidays series – The Christmas Bargain.

Luke Granger is about to get more than he bargained for…
As owner and manager of the Hardman bank, Luke Granger is a man of responsibility and integrity in the small 1890s Eastern Oregon town. When he calls in a long overdue loan, Luke reluctantly accepts a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.

Here’s a little excerpt:

~*~

“Aren’t you observant, Mrs. Granger?”

“I try.” She hid her smile behind the mug of chocolate.

“I happen to know a thing or two about you.” He shot her a sideways glance.

“Do tell, kind sir.” Filly batted her eyelashes at him. If Luke didn’t know better, he would think she was being downright flirtatious.

“I have observed, dear woman, that you put others before yourself, you are a dedicated and caring friend and that you have a keen mind with a quick wit. You are clever, smart, and not afraid of hard work. You are very talented with domestic skills and are inspiring as a cook. Your chocolate pudding could make grown men weep.”

Filly offered him a perturbed glare. “So, Mr. Granger, I have missed my calling as a school teacher or perhaps a cook at the restaurant. If my chocolate pudding makes grown men weep, what will my peach pie do to the male population? Bring them to their knees? Make them beg for mercy?”

Luke laughed aloud, causing Filly to grin.

“Filly, my girl, you are something else.” Luke reached across the table and captured her hand in his. “You might not think I notice you, wife of mine, but I know you…”

~*~

Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

Everywhere! I’m a big people watcher (and daydreamer) so I can be standing in line at the grocery store and have an idea for a story slap me upside the head. Time spent locked in the car with Captain Cavedweller (my husband) always generates some story ideas. We’ve yet to return from a trip that I didn’t come home with at least a few good story ideas.

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

Do your homework, write the best book you can, get it professionally edited, invest in a great cover and don’t give up. I think too many people give up too soon. Believe in yourself and your dreams!

What is your favorite part of writing?

Writing! I love creating the characters, getting the words in my head down in print, coming up with the plots. I love all of it!

What is your least favorite part of writing?

Editing.  I’d much rather move on to the next story.

What is your favorite dessert/food?

Chocolate. I still say it should have its own food group categorization. I won’t waste my time on mediocre chocolate, though. It has to be the “good stuff.” And dark chocolate Dove squares are always on hand in my office.

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

It is entirely possible they could become part of a character. I blend many different aspects into the characters. I always tell people to behave or they might end up as the next villain in one of my stories.

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

I have two windows in my office. One looks out over the back yard. Beyond it, there is a pasture where the neighbor sometimes has horses grazing and other times goats. Once, there were even chickens back there. My view out the other window is the pasture of another neighbor. They have an adorable baby girl and a puppy that tend to play out there just in my line of sight and provide any number of distractions with their cuteness. My office space is my writing haven and as such, I try to keep it neat and organized (at least most of the time!).

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

 When a reader reaches out to me to say one of my stories made them laugh or cry – evoked some sort of emotion… that’s what makes it all worthwhile. I can’t think of a single thing more wonderful than knowing I’ve touched someone’s heart or brought them a smile.

~*~

Convinced everyone deserves a happy ending, hopeless romantic Shanna Hatfield is out to make it happen, one story at a time. Her bestselling sweet historical and contemporary romances combine humor and heart-pumping moments with characters that seem incredibly real.

When she isn’t writing or consuming copious amounts of chocolate, Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.

Find Shanna’s books at:

Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Apple

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:

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