Tag Archives: Reviews

A Review from the Readers Roundtable

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A big thank you to Riva at the Readers Roundtable for her review of Adelaide’s Adventure! Here’s an excerpt:

“Ursula Grey’s Adelaide’s Adventure was a deliciously short read I didn’t want to end…Two strangers on a journey…Adelaide is demure, contained. Mr. Winters is neither of those and he catches a glimpse of the fire beneath her smooth surface. His pursuit and dominance of her was remarkably well written, the love scenes as well. The dialogue came off authentic and even sexy as Mr. Winters takes her in hand, pleasuring her through false outrage and hollow denials. He seeks to own her body, but after a not-too-surprising twist at the end, we’re left asking who really owns who?”

Rated 3.5 Gold Crowns (and a Recommended Read) by Riva!

Read the entire interview here.

Say Hello to Sibel Hodge!

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Sibel Hodge is the latest amazing author to visit us as we continue on the All Romantic Suspense Blog Tour. Sibel is an interesting gal ~ here’s a little more about her:

Sibel Hodge has dual British/Turkish Cypriot nationality, dividing her time between Hertfordshire and North Cyprus.

Her first novel, Fourteen Days Later, was short listed for the Harry Bowling Prize 2008 and received a highly commended by the Yeovil Literary Prize 2009. It is a romantic comedy with a unique infusion of British and Turkish Cypriot culture. Written in a similar style to Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes, Fourteen Days Later is My Big Fat Greek Wedding meets Bridget Jones.

The Fashion Police is her second novel and was a runner up in the Chapter One Promotions Novel Competition 2010. It is a screwball comedy-mystery, combining murder and mayhem with romance and chick-lit, and the first in a series featuring feisty, larger-than-life insurance investigator, Amber Fox. Written in a similar style to Janet Evanovich and Myron Bolitar, The Fashion Police is Stephanie Plum meets Harlan Coben.

My Perfect Wedding is her latest novel and the sequel to Fourteen Days Later.

That surely is an impressive bio, Sibel! We’d love to hear more about you and your writing process:-) Let’s get right to some questions. I’m sure readers are curious ~ so let’s begin.

Ursula: Do you consider yourself a plotter or a pantser?

Sibel: Definitely a panster! I find if I get too hung up on plotting at the beginning, it can curb my creativity. If I just start to write, my plot and characters seem to develop on their own.

Ursula: What is your writing day like? Do you have a specific daily word or page goal?

Sibel: I don’t like to tie myself down to a specific word count, but I try and write a chapter a day. My husband has taken over my desk, so usually I write on the kitchen table or terrace or anywhere else with a spare space.

Ursula: What are your writing goals?

Sibel: Obviously, I’d love to hit the bestseller list! But I want to carry on writing novels that make people laugh. What better way to distress in our hectic lives, than to lose yourself in a fun-packed romp.

Ursula: What books are currently on your nightstand?

Sibel: The Witness Wore Blood Bay by L.C. Evans, Sleight Malice by Vicki Tyley, and The Summoner by Layton Green

Ursula: What is the last book you read?

Sibel: Take the Monkeys and Run by Karen Cantwell. It was a fast, fun read.

Ursula: How long does it take you to write a complete novel?

Sibel: I wrote my debut novel in three weeks. I had to go back and change a lot afterwards, but it taught me a lot. Now I usually write the first draft within a month, but editing always takes longer. For a finished novel, including time with my editor, it normally takes around three months.

Ursula: What are you currently working on?

Sibel: I’m working on the second novel in my Amber Fox cozy mystery series.

Ursula: Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

Sibel: Australia. I’d love to take a few months off and just travel around. I was going to backpack there when I was younger, but then I got a mortgage which tied me down. Maybe one day!

Ursula: Do you have a favorite book and/or author?

Sibel: There’s too many to choose from. My influences are people like Sophie Kinsella, Marian Keyes, Janet Evanovich, and Harlan Coben.

Ursula: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Sibel: I’ve always loved writing. When I was a little kid, I was always scribbling away. I started my first novel when I was about seventeen but didn’t have a clue what I was doing, so I binned it. I started the second one when I was twenty-seven but never got further than the first three chapters. My third one I started when I was thirty-five and went on to become my debut romantic comedy, Fourteen Days Later.

Ursula: What genre are you most comfortable writing?

Sibel: Comedy. I love reading and writing romantic comedy, but I also love comedy mystery. So I thought why not do both?

Great interview, Sibel. How about a blurb for My Perfect Wedding? Also, where can readers purchase a copy?

Blurb for My Perfect Wedding:

Helen Grey is finally getting everything she wants. She’s about to have the perfect dream wedding and begin an exciting new life abroad on the sunny Mediterranean island of Cyprus. But living the dream isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

After a mix-up at the airport, Helen finds herself drawn into the midst of an elaborate plot to steal an ancient statue and assassinate a local businessman. And as if that wasn’t bad enough, her wedding dress is AWOL, the statue seems to be cursed, and Helen is wanted by the police.

With the big day rapidly approaching, a roller-coaster of mishaps, misunderstandings, and disasters threatens to turn the newlyweds into nearlyweds.

Can Helen prevent an assassination, save the statue, and have the perfect wedding? Or will the day to remember turn into one she’d rather forget?

Review:

“I loved this book. It is a easy read so it didn’t take me long to read it and I just couldn’t put it down. I read it in one afternoon. It is funny, witty and intriguing. If you are a fan of Sophie Kinsella I am positive you will love My Perfect Wedding by Sibel Hodge.” Geeky Girl Books

Links for sale:

Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Wedding-Romantic-Comedy-ebook/dp/B004IK93XS/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&m=A3G5FUGTDGO5ZX&s=books&qid=1296281857&sr=8-6

Amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=sibel+hodge&x=0&y=0

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/36747

Authors website: http://www.sibelhodge.com/

Breaking News!

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I’m ecstatic to report that Adelaide’s Adventure is #5 in the Best Selling Historical Other ebooks category on All Romance ebooks! Makes me so happy to see that star next to the title:-). Of course, it may not be there tomorrow…But for today, I’m walking on air. I want to thank the readers who took a chance on a new author and decided to purchase the book. You’ve made my day:-)!

Adelaide’s Adventure Reviewed by Manic Readers

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The first review for Adelaide’s Adventure has arrived, compliments of Stacey at Manic Readers. Here’s an excerpt:

“Okay, I admit, the twist in Adelaide’s Adventure caught me off guard, I suppose because I wasn’t really looking for it. I liked how it took a moment to figure out whether or not it really was a twist—it changes so subtly at first that you could almost miss it until a few lines later. The characters are deliberately left, for the most part, to the reader’s imagination as far as personality and history go, which also lends itself to the story. Looking back, it does seem a bit obvious, but it’s so obvious you don’t even notice until it’s right in your face, though I’ll give no examples so as not to ruin the surprise, but that actually makes you want to reread the story, to pick up on all the clues you might’ve missed the first time through.”

To read the entire review, click here. Adelaide’s Adventure received 3 1/2 stars.

Reading a review is always a bit stressful for writers…At least it is for me. What do you think? For the veteran authors out there ~ do you still read each and every review you receive? New authors ~ what about you? Readers ~ how much do you rely on reviews to decide whether or not to purchase a book?

A Visit with Noble Romance Author Sarah Ballance

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Welcome, Sarah:-) So glad you could drop by!

Sarah: Thanks so much for having me here today.  I came without my kids, so I’m content to crash on your sofa (otherwise known as hiding from the kids) until you kick me out.  Readers, I’d offer you a drink, but I’m not sure where Ms. Grey keeps the coasters and I don’t want to get stuck with the cleaning bill.  (Ya’ll know you’ve got some “rowdy” in ya!)  Oops – my host is giving me The Look. Let’s pay attention, shall we?

Ursula: Ahem…I thought it seemed a little quieter than usual;-). Tell you what, Rachel ~ I won’t tell the little ones you’re here if you promise to let us in on your writing secrets and tell us a little about yourself. While I’m searching for those coasters, please make yourself comfortable…Okay, back with the drink of Sarah’s dreams…And now for what we’ve all been waiting for! Let’s chat, shall we;-)?

Do you consider yourself a plotter or pantser?

Sarah: I start my stories with an outline – usually as simple as a list of 5-10 plot points.  I start there, and I change it as the story demands it.  I guess you can say I try to plot but my characters wear the pants in our relationship.

Ursula: What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

Sarah: Find a GOOD crit partner.  Your story will  never be perfect, so anyone who can’t find a flaw in it is not doing you any favors.  On the flipside, a good CP will find something nice to say right along with the constructive criticism.  It’s just as important to know what you’re doing right as it is to know where the weaknesses are, and when your CP is a good fit he or she can help you see those points without trying to change your voice.

Ursula: What is your writing day like? Do you have a specific daily word or page goal?

Sarah: I have six kids and they’re homeschooled.  The most consistent bit of structure to my day is opening my netbook, typing in my password, and closing the computer right back up before my file even opens.  I would LOVE to write 1,000 words a day, but as long as I have children under the age of three I know better than to expect it.  That’s as it should be, though.  They’re awesome kids.

Ursula: Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how do you find your way back?

Sarah: Sort of.  I tend to be a perfectionist on the first draft.  I need to reach a certain level of “BAM” with my manuscript before I can move on.  Ignoring that pesky criteria of mine does no good, so I live with it.  Best thing I can do when the words won’t come is walk away.  The alternative is to write a scene later in the book.  I don’t feel like *it* has to be perfect because I haven’t gotten there yet, so to speak, and when I do get there it’s a relatively easy edit.

Ursula: Tell us about your first acceptance!

Sarah: The whole experience was insane.  I subbed less than a week before we found out we were pregnant with #6.  Months later, I got the request for a full.  Then the contract offer came, and through all of this I was sick as a dog.  (I don’t get that.  I don’t even know any sick dogs, LOL, but anyway….)  I couldn’t jump around or cheer because it would have done nothing for my all day “morning” sickness, but fortunately for me I didn’t believe it.  I don’t think I believed it even after my book released, which – incidentally – was just a couple of weeks after my baby was born.  The baby was a shocker because I had my tubes tied after our fifth child was born, so that whole nine month period was just an insane mix of birthing both book and baby.  Unforgettable, to say the least.

Ursula: What are your writing goals?

Sarah: Ultimately, I’d love to write for Harlequin Intrigue.  For now – and to that end – I’d like to finish 2-3 novel-length romantic suspenses a year.

Ursula: What books are currently on your nightstand?

Sarah: Rosalie Stanton’s RIPPLES THROUGH TIME, Renee Vincent’s RÆLIKSEN, and a couple of nonfiction books by Dave Ramsey and Joel Osteen.  Over the nightstand is a shelf one of my kids made me and it’s packed full of Harlequin Intrigues.  My boy actually built it to spec, measuring the books so the shelves were just the right size for my “purple book collection” LOL.

Ursula: What is the last book you read?

Sarah: Renee Vincent’s RÆLIKSEN.  I bawled. Phenomenal book – a must read!

Ursula: If you could go back in time, where or in what period would you find yourself?

Sarah: Well, at this point you’d find me hanging out with Dægan Ræliksen, LOL.  But seriously, I’m not much of a history buff – and I’ll take all of my childbirthing with an epidural, thank you – but I do love colonial America (and have a WIP closely tied to that time period) and also have a thing for the wild west thanks to HBO’s Deadwood series.  But actually being there without my hot showers and my computer?  Eh.

Ursula: What part of your writing do you enjoy least?

Sarah: After a book is published, I almost refuse to look at it.  Every time I do, I find something I wish I could change.  Talk about maddening!

Ursula: How long does it take you to write a complete novel?

Sarah: If I could stick to my goal of 1,000 words a day, it would only take a couple of months to write a 55k-60k word novel.  But then life interferes and it ends up taking six months or more.  I know I need to work on my own mental game because I’m easily distracted, but I don’t want to blink and miss the kids growing up so I try to keep that in mind when I get frustrated.

Ursula: What are you currently working on?

Sarah: A romantic suspense I’m calling UNFORGIVEN.  A year before the story begins, Gage tore Riley’s world apart.  She did the unthinkable in forgiving him, but did so under the condition that he stay out of her life for good.  He kept that promise until he found his brother dead on his back porch; once Gage realizes who pulled the trigger, all bets are off.  The next time Riley lays eyes on him, it’s a gunpoint.  From there, things get interesting.

Ursula: Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

Sarah: I’ve been all over the U.S. and to Europe, but my favorite spot is right here – the Outer Banks of NC.  I’d love to go to Ireland, Italy, or Greece but the H won’t fly and I’m not going in a boat.  I’ll go to the Bahamas in one of our boats, but that’s as much open ocean as I want to see!  I can seriously see us anchored offshore of the Florida Keys, though.  I don’t have to worry about foreign laws there – I would SO  not fare well in prison.

Ursula: Do you have a favorite book and/or author?

Sarah: I love the Harlequin Intrigue series.  I grabbed a free read and fell in LOVE with the whole romantic suspense concept, which is where my urge to write suspense originated.  I think those books will always hold meaning to me because every time I read one, I experience the thrill and the urge to write.

Ursula: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Sarah: No deeper meanings here.  ;c)  I want my characters to hit that third dimension and be real. That would be my greatest accomplishment.

Ursula: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Sarah: As a kid I wanted it as early as elementary school, but never took the first step in getting there.  In fact, I double majored in biology and biochemistry in college.  Then I married the H and went on to *never work a day in my life* so I could be a stay-at-home-mom for our herd of offspring. It wasn’t until after the birth of our 5th child that I gave it a go, and my first novel DOWN IN FLAMES was picked up on my first query by Noble Romance.  As soon as I saw that cover, I was HOOKED!

Ursula: What do you like to do for fun? Hobbies?

Sarah: We live on the coast and head out in our boat every chance we get.  I also love riding horses (and had one for 17 years until we lost her last spring at the age of 25), cross stitching, cooking/baking, and anything to do with the beach.   We also enjoy hiking.

Ursula: What question are you never asked in interviews but wish you were?

Sarah: I don’t know if there is one!  I do love any chance to tell folks how awesome my publisher is, though, so … pssst.  NOBLE ROCKS!

Ursula: What genre are you most comfortable writing?

Sarah: Romantic suspense.  My first was a romance and I tried for my third to be, but the idea kept resituating itself in my mind until it managed to twist into a suspense.  (That idea is on the shelf for now – a new idea took over.)  Bossy as it is, I think I found my comfort zone.

Ursula: How do you deal with rejection?

Sarah: It doesn’t bother me. I know everything doesn’t appeal to everyone, and even with a great story the timing has to be there for the publisher.  It’s a subjective business from one end to the other and I’m just proud to be a part of it.  One day down the line I may face a rejection I find devastating, but I’m hoping I can fall back on that inner logic when the time comes, LOL.

On that note, here’s the blurb to one which was not rejected: RUN TO YOU.

Mattie James can’t pinpoint exactly when she lost control of her life, but the moment she decided to take it back made the front page of the local paper. Desperate to dodge the fallout— and the tabloids—she jumps at the chance to spend an off-season week in a tiny resort community by the sea. Making the trip with her ex-lover is a complication she can live with; coming face to face with a dead woman is not.

The last thing Sheriff Wyatt Reed expected to find on the storm-ravaged beach was a beautiful blonde with a jealous sidekick, but one look at Mattie left him wanting more. Their first date takes an ominous turn when he gets the call that a woman was found murdered. With a killer on the loose and a troubling lack of suspects or motive, Wyatt has to put his feelings aside to focus on the case. But his vow not to become personally involved is shattered when he discovers Mattie’s life is on the line, and this time the truth leaves her with a deadly choice . . . and nowhere to run.

BUY LINK:  https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=214

Reviews:

http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/2011/01/review-run-to-you-by-sarah-ballance.html

http://mizlovelovesbooks.blogspot.com/2011/01/run-to-you-by-sarah-ballance.html

Ursula: Great interview, Sarah! Please stop in again sometime in the near future ~ and bring the little ones along! I have lots of coasters;-).


A Visit from Leanne Dyck, Author of The Sweater Curse

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It’s Week Six of the All Romantic Suspense Blog Tour and our guest author is Leanne Dyck. Welcome, Leanne! Thanks for stopping by and allowing me to interview you:-)

Leanne: Greetings from beautiful Mayne Island, British Columbia, Canada. Thank you, Ursula for this opportunity. I hope your readers enjoy the interview.

It’s my pleasure, Leanne. Glad you could make it. I’d like to begin by asking you a few questions about you and your writing process. Also, we’d love to hear more about your book, The Sweater Curse, and where readers can get a copy. So, Leanne…tell us more!

Do you consider yourself a plotter or a pantser?

Leanne: I’m a flexible plotter. In my teens I wrote never-ending stories. Fearful of similar outcomes, I like to start with a plan. My muse grants me permission to change this plan as often as I wish.

What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

Leanne: Make a daily commitment to read, write and promote yourself.

What is your writing day like? Do you have a specific daily word or page goal?

Leanne: My bum is in the chair from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Daily activities include answering emails, working on my manuscript, writing a blog post, researching and participating in promotional opportunities.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how do you find your way back?

Leanne: Have I? Oh, yes. In fact, I wrote an article on strategies I’ve employed to effectively overcome the BLOCK. I would be happy to share this article with your readers.

Tell us about your first acceptance!

Leanne: Encouraged by the success of my self-publishing cozy mystery (MAYNELY A MYSTERY), I made a pact that I would do everything in my power to find a publisher for THE SWEATER CURSE. I began hunting in October 2010 and by June of that year I found Decadent Publishing.

There’s nothing like the rush you feel achieving a goal you fear is unattainable.

What are your writing goals?

Leanne: Dream big or go home is my motto, so… I want to write a best selling series that spawns a hit movie.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Leanne: John Grisham’s THE INNOCENT MAN

What is the last book you read?

Leanne: Sheree Fitch’s PLUTO’S GHOST (YA). Jake, the lead character, is dyslexic. This story appealed to me because I’m dyslexic and am currently writing a novel with a lead character that shares my “disability”. PLUTO’S GHOST was a quick and entertaining read.

If you could go back in time, where or in what period would you find yourself?

Leanne: The 60s.

What part of your writing do you enjoy least?

Leanne: Writing a synopsis.

How long does it take you to write a complete novel?

Leanne: It varies, and I’m happy to give each of my projects the time they need. THE SWEATER CURSE (novella) took me five years of often-interrupted writing. MAYNELY A MYSTERY (short novel) took a year.

What are you currently working on?

Leanne: TURNING is a young adult adventure loosely based on my time in the government-run youth group Katimavik. I’m approximately 50% of the way through and my estimated completion date is the end of June 2011.

I’ve also begun working on the sequel to THE SWEATER CURSE.

Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

Leanne: On my mom’s bucket list was a trip to New Zealand. She never got to go. I would like to go in her stead.

Do you have a favorite book and/or author?

Leanne: Joline Godfrey’s OUR WILDEST DREAMS:  Women Entrepreneurs Making Money, Having Fun, Doing Good.

This book gave me hope when I had run dry.

My mom’s death sent me into a deep depression. I knew who I was with her strength and support. Before her death, I was an Early Childhood Educator caring for children at a day care while studying to obtain my social work degree.

After her death, I was lost. I had nothing left to give to myself let alone anyone else. I was trained to work in the social services.  My career had to change. I had to do something else, but what? OUR WILDEST DREAMS helped me answer this question.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Leanne: Each of us shares a common bond.

Don’t accept the knitter stereotype

Believe in the power of art and the value of artists.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Leanne: I’ve always loved story. I was a shy teen—writing gave me a world to control.

What do you like to do for fun? Hobbies?

Leanne: I like to spend time with family and friends, volunteer in my community and engage in solitary pursuits such as knitting and photography.

What question are you never asked in interviews but wish you were?

Leanne: Tell me about your blog. The Sweater Curse blog is devoted to my two passions—writing and knitting. Offered on this blog are podcasts of me reading from  The Sweater Curse, a knitting tutorial, samples of The Sweater Curse sequel, and interviews with authors and knitwear designers. I’m also currently running the “Your Favourite Sweater” short story contest and am accepting submissions of 500 words or less. Each story will be published on my popular blog. One lucky contributor will win a copy of THE SWEATER CURSE.

What genre are you most comfortable writing?

Leanne: I’ve enjoyed writing many genres. In fiction, I’ve written a cozy mystery and a dark thriller. In non-fiction, besides writing a learn-to-knit pattern book, I’m currently writing a creative non-fiction humorous young adult adventure. Each of these genres has their appeal, but I’m fickle. What I’m currently writing generally gives me the most comfort. TURNING is no acceptation.

How do you deal with rejection?

Leanne: To help me deal with rejection, I tried an experiment. I walked into my local bookstore. I wandered from book to book, reading the back covers. I realized two things. First, no one publisher published all of the books. Second, I realized how taxing it must be for a publisher to decide which book to publish. A good publisher not only creates a book, but also sells it. In order to do an effective job, the publisher must believe in the value of the story. I asked myself, “Did I like all the books I saw?” Truthfully, I answered, “No.” Surprisingly, I came to this conclusion:  sometimes the kindest thing a publisher can do—especially if my story doesn’t appeal to them—is to reject it.

Great interview, Leanne. Do provide us a link to your post on overcoming writer’s block. I know I’d love to read it:-).  Can you now share a blurb and some reviews for The Sweater Curse?

Blurb:  Aspiring knitwear designer Gwen Bjarnson is stuck in Purgatory. To escape, she must re-examine her life, journey through her past and right a wrong. But which wrong?

Young and in love, she works to establish her career, except fate has different plans. One rash act and she loses everything. Never resting, always seeking, and yearning for what she can no longer have, Gwen faces the truth:  if she remains, others are destined to die.

How will she solve the mystery before it is too late?

Reviews

Stitch by colorful stitch, Leanne Dyck knits a tale of intrigue with The Sweater Curse. Set against the backdrop of Canada and told in the first-person voice, the readers steps into the life–or rather, afterlife–of Gwen Bjarnson.

With a physician mother who has her sights set on career advancement, and a father who’s left emasculated in the wake of his wife’s ambitions. Gwen is placed in the care and keeping of her Aunt Oli’s loving and capable hands–gentle hands that teach her how to knit.

Her love of knitting stays with Gwen as she finds herself estranged from her family and squeezed into the lives of the upper echelon of society where trophy wives dangle from the arms of fragile, old millionaires. Drifting from house to house, she always has her knitting needles–the one constant in her life. Like a revolving door, men come and go, drawn like moths to a flame, enjoying erotic pleasures with Gwen. Until the fateful night when she meets Jaron Cardew, a self-published novelist who sees her for what she is–an artists–and believes in her.

Drawing her into his circle of friends, Jaron and Gwen become emotionally entwined. While purchasing skeins of yarn–a decadent blend of wool and alpaca–to knit a sweater for Jaron, the shopkeeper warns Gwen, “knit your boyfriend a hat, scarf, socks–anything but a sweater.” But she doesn’t heed the sage advice. Knit with love, the sweater turns out beautifully–quite literally to die for!

–reviewed by Laurie Buchanan

http://holessence.wordpress.com/

The Sweater Curse:  A Modern Edda

Leanne Dyck has crafted a tale as exotic and existential as Danish Isak Dinesen’s. Her novella begins with a Ship-of-Fools fashion, with a bitter voice in some mysterious waiting room beyond the grave. The speaker, Gwen Bjarnson, returns us to her childhood years in Bloudous, a small town in northern Manitoba with a major Icelandic population. Her sweet and easy-going father is a simple father, but her mother is an ambitious doctor bent on pursuing her career.

Gwen finds solace in the love and care of her Auntie Oli, she shows her the art of crafts. “Knitting wove us together.” But dark forces will take the family from their safe haven to Vancouver, where her storyteller dad falls quickly into alcoholism. Stubborn but vulnerable Gwen is torn between two worlds, the tradition of her common-sense, hardworking forbearers and the demands of the modern life with its soul-crushing and superficial definition of success. To marry? To go to university? To become a fashion designer and a master of wools, colours, and patterns? Or to drown one’s sorrows with liquor and the “sweet breath of Mary Jane”? IN the creative atmosphere of Kitsilano where “anything goes”, love may come to Gwen, but is she ready to receive it? Temptations come at a price.

Overhanging this brooding and complex story is the time-honoured tale of the Sweater Curse. Knitting a sweater for a man who is not yet a husband will bring tragedy. Creating modern characters against the fateful background of the sagas. Dyck gives them free will to choose their won destinies. This book defies genre definitions as it finds its unique place on the fiction shelves. Here’s hoping Leanne Dyck returns many times to the intriguing roots of her family’s past.

–reviewed by Lou Allin

http://www.louallin.com/

She Felt No Pain (RendezVous Press, Oct, 2010)

That Dog Won’t Hunt (Orca, Oct 2010)

On Kindle:  A Little Learning and Man Corn Murders

Where can readers find you?

Website:  www.oknitting.com

Blog:  http://sweatercursed.blogspot.com

A Warm Welcome to Author Kiki Howell!

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It is the fourth week of the All Romantic Suspense Blog Tour and today we have with us author, Kiki Howell. Welcome Kiki! We’d love to learn more about you and your latest release, Torn Asunder. So, without further ado, let’s begin!

Do you consider yourself a plotter or a pantser?

Kiki: Plotter, definitely! I even have a story board up for the current suspense story I am writing.

What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

Kiki: Write your own story, don’t worry about what is selling, what you think publishers want to see, what readers want to read, etc… If it is truly your story, then it will show in the writing. All the second guessing yourself impairs your creativity.

What is your writing day like? Do you have a specific daily word or page goal?

Kiki: I don’t set page or word goals. I send my kids off to school in the morning, go through  my emails and handle any promo stuff set for the day.  If I am being good, then I exercise and handle any phone calls or lingering business, then I write the rest of the day. However, more often than not, I get my kids on the bus, answer emails, open my story and write right through lunch until they get off the bus! LOL

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how do you find your way back?

Kiki: Yes I do from time to time. I sometimes force myself to write anyway even if it all gets deleted later. But, mostly I start reading. That always inspires me to get back to my own story.

Tell us about your first acceptance!

Kiki: The stories aren’t available anymore, but my first contract came on my son’s birthday from Whiskey Creek Press Torrid. I was getting things ready for dinner, my son had a friend home after school with him, and my husband says, “what is this book contract email about?” LOL The contract was for two short stories in their Celtic Love Knots Series. One of them is now available as a free read on Smashwords .

What are your writing goals?

Kiki: Right now, I am hoping to finish up my current novel and try the whole agent thing.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Kiki: I review for Suspense Magazine, so I am reading a book that hasn’t been released yet, “Spirit Dances” by C.E. Murphy which releases March 22and with Luna Books.

What is the last book you read?

Kiki: “Midnight Unseen” (The Watchers, Book 5) by D. McEntire I have reviewed all 5 books. The series is wonderful!!!!

If you could go back in time, where or in what period would you find yourself?

Kiki: Definitely Regency England where my current novel is set. I have long loved this time period, and only recently got up enough guts to write in it myself. It was as close to living it as I guess I will ever come.

What part of your writing do you enjoy least?

Kiki: When I get to the point that I have rewritten a story a few times and the perfectionist in me won’t let me say it is done, so I begrudgingly go back through it. Of course, this makes the edits worse! LOL

How long does it take you to write a complete novel?

Kiki: Hard to say really. Torn Asunder is my first complete novel, and it evolved from a short story into a novella then into a novel. The first draft of the novel I am currently writing took me about 2 months.

What are you currently working on?

Kiki: The current novel I am writing takes place in Salem, MA. It is a contemporary suspense inspired by my vacation their this summer. Looks like it is going to be a three book series now too.

Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

Kiki: Ireland! And, yes I will be setting a book there, or maybe several.

Do you have a favorite book and/or author?

Kiki: I don’t really. I go through phases of the genres I read, and I guess I have a few favs in each genre.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Kiki: I guess whether historical or contemporary, I always have parts in my novel about judgment. A huge pet peeve of mine is judging someone either by a stereotype or with out even trying to get to know them. My husband created and teaches a class in his high school called crossroads which tries to open kids eyes against this sort of thing whether by race, weight, etc.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Kiki: Very young when I found myself falling asleep at night rewriting the story I have just finished in my head because I didn’t like the ending.

What do you like to do for fun? Hobbies?

Kiki: I love watching movies with my family, or making a nice meal and sharing it. Other than that I read all the time, and when the moment hits me I knit.

What question are you never asked in interviews but wish you were?

Kiki: Hmm, I don’t know, I have been interviewed so much lately that I think it has all been covered. LOL

What genre are you most comfortable writing?

Kiki: Paranormal Romance

How do you deal with rejection?

Kiki: Fairly well, I mean it just comes with this job. The only time I don’t is when someone takes a superior tone. You don’t have to like what I write, in fact I don’t expect every one too, we are all so different. But, don’t put me down as if you are better than me. It’s just one opinion.

Thanks, Kiki! That was an amazing interview. I really enjoyed learning more about you and your writing process. Now, how about more on your latest release, Torn Asunder. Can you share a blurb, some reviews, and where readers can purchase a copy? How about an excerpt!?

Torn Asunder

Kiki Howell spins a wonderful tale of passion, magic, betrayal, and a love that conquers all. Enjoy.”  ~NY Times Bestselling Author, Hannah Howell

Blurb: Aubrey Griffen is a witch whose true reasons for coming to London soon fall to the wayside when she catches the eye of Edmund Bryant, the Marquess of Dalysbury.  He seduces her into a whirlwind romance until the lies and threats of his mother force her to flee to Triaill Brimuir, a secret island of her ancestors off the coast of Ireland. Edmund goes after her only to be hit by Aubrey’s confusion and anger when she magically transforms him into an elemental beast of her own creation.

However, it is when Edmund’s lust mysteriously turns him back into a man that the couple are forced to deal with a family secret and untold of powers.  Now, Edmund must learn to shift himself into the beast in order to save her in a battle of black verses white magic.

Fraught with scenes of explicit intimacy, romantic spells and mystical shapeshifting, Torn Asunder is a unique blending of the age of manners with sexual magic.

Genres: Historical (Regency), Paranormal (Witches & Shifters), Erotic, Romantic Suspense

Adult Content Warnings: Explicit Graphic Language, Violence

You can purchase Torn Asunder in eBook and Trade Paperback online at retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, All Romance Ebooks, Smashwords, and Excessica Publishing .

Author Website http://www.kikihowell.com

Praise for Torn Asunder:

Kiki Howell I feel has a major hit on her hands with Torn Asunder. I was so glued to this book that I was up til 4AM reading it, and mind you, I had to be up at 7AM to see my kiddies off to school….lol. I was just so captivated… In between all the chaos our couple must endure is the most breath taking love story. Their hearts and minds are linked for all time by an unforeseen connection that real couples only dream of. On a scale of 1-10 I give this book a 10 and encourage everyone 18 and over to get a copy of this book and fall under Aubrey and Emund’s spell. It is so worth the ride.  ~5 out of 5 Stars,  Review by Raquel Vega-Grieder for Sinfully Tasty Reads

“Torn Asunder is what a Regency novel should be.  Prior to this book, I have never had a historical romance keep my interest for more than a chapter or two.  Kiki Howell has written a historical novel that sings. Her love for the time period is reflected in every part of the story, from the vivid characters to the clear imagery of her settings. I give Torn Asunder five of five hearts.”  ~D. Alexx Miller, Book Reviewer for Romance in the Backseat

EXCERPT:

The roses, elegant in their refinement, fell from one another with little grace as she undid the paper around them. Staggering back a few steps until her back met with the wall, she slid down to the floor letting the wrapping and flowers fall where they may. Aubrey wrapped her arms tightly around her midsection. Her chest ached more with each beat of her heart as she swallowed hard, blinked away the mistiness over her eyes, and remembered.

It had been the beginning of the season, a bit over a fortnight ago, when she first encountered Edmund Bryant, the Marquess of Dalysbury. Although she rolled her eyes still at the title, she felt impelled to live through it all again–through the days of fantasy in which she had allowed herself to participate. Love at first sight didn’t always give way to rational thinking. It did, however, make possible even the wavering delusions of believing impossible dreams could come true. She had just come to London to live with Lord and Lady Sanderly, her cousins who had paid for her travels under the guise of giving a poor relation of marriageable age a chance to find a good husband.

Whereas, the truth of the matter was, she was a relation who had shown a great aptitude for learning of the magical powers she had inherited. The good Lord and Lady, while holding the public title of Earl and Countess, were actually descendants of one of the notorious Pendle witches. They were to teach her to harness and utilize her innate talents in secret while flaunting her about from various parties and balls in the public eye.

She recalled with a weak smile the first ball Lord and Lady Sanderly had thrown to immerse her into proper society. At the time, she had consciously gripped her hands before her waist to resist fidgeting while trying hard to fix to memory all of the titles of those to whom she was being introduced. Her level of discomfort had increased, however, as an unsettled awareness of someone in the room, a haunting premonition of sorts, had made her heart race and her mouth dry. She had paid mind to ignore the successive shivers which rushed the length of her spine until they pooled as heat in her tightening stomach.

Reminded she was holding her breath only when forced to speak, her ribs had begun to ache. When a chill more pervasive that any she had ever known even in the drafty county cottage she had been raised in permeated her shoulders, she had turned in the direction of the source, and her eyes had met with a man standing just across the room looking back at her. She had immediately felt challenged to not look away from the gaze of his dark eyes. They radiated a raw energy unlike anything she had ever encountered before even among those with her own esoteric abilities.

A connection was made. Her heart beat at a frantic, uneven pace like a horse racing over shoddy roads. At the same time, a vague forewarning had made her break out in a glistening of sweat while she fought the urge to escape as well the need to move toward the man. She had given merit to her reactions based only on the fact she had captured the glance of an aristocratic gentleman with a lady in a lavish satin gown on his arm of obviously higher circumstances.

Engrossed in his fine manners, she watched as his hand removed the one holding onto him from his arm with a slight nod of his head. The lady in return had given him a slight curtsy but glorious smile before turning back to her other acquaintances which Aubrey recognized to be a duke and duchess she had recently met. His tempestuous form fit in posh attire spun on the heel of his expensive footwear to find her again with his haunted and hungry eyes. He seemed an odd mix of rugged and refined. She had felt the thrill and danger of being pursued by a beast which lurked inside of the man.

Hey! Author Jerri Drennen’s here!

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It’s the third week of the All Romantic Suspense Blog Tour! Who do we have visiting today? It’s my pleasure to introduce author Jerri Drennen! Jerri has been published with Samhain, Wild Rose Press, and Liquid Silver Books. She’s here today to answer some questions about her writing process and to tell us about her latest release from Liquid Silver Books, Untouched. Please welcome her!

Okay, Jerri ~ we’re all eager to learn more about you, so let’s commence with the interview!:-).

Do you consider yourself a plotter or pantser?

Jerri: I’m definitely a pantser. The one time I tried to work from an outline, I didn’t finish the book.

What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

Jerri: Just keep writing and find a good critique group that can give you feedback. I’ve been lucky to find groups that have helped me strengthen my writing.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how do you find your way back?

Jerri: Yes, too many times to count. I just got over one that lasted close to a month. Tons of things can stop me in my tracks. A rejection. A hard critique. I usually allow myself time to do other things and that helps get me back on track.

Tell us about your first acceptance!

Jerri: Well, it was with the now defunct Triskelion Publishing. The book was Her Man Flint. I wasn’t real happy with the experience. Then I sold to Loose-id and it was like night and day. They were wonderful to work with. I hope to again someday.

What part of your writing do you enjoy the least?

Jerri: I really don’t like doing research but unfortunately it’s par for the course.

What are you currently working on?

Jerri: It’s call A Trace of Magic and it’s a paranormal romantic suspense. It’s something new for me and I’m having a blast writing it.

How do you deal with rejection?

Jerri: A gallon of ice cream, a large pizza and maybe a tear or two.

Thanks, Jerri! I really enjoyed interview you:-). Can you share a blurb, an excerpt…how about a review for Untouched?

Blurb for Untouched:

Botanist Madeline Wentworth is relieved to be heading into the Amazon, far from the university and the vicious rumors circulating about her failed love affair. But on arriving in Peru, her team finds their guide dead with a small puncture wound to his neck. Waiting to replace him is Travis Kane, Amazon guide, treasure hunter, and superhunk. Mattie is instantly attracted but uncomfortably suspicious. When a member of her team falls ill and a similar puncture wound is found on his body, her suspicions deepen.

Travis has stuck with being a jungle guide for over ten years despite a run of unsavory clients. The rain forest is full of hidden ruins and undiscovered treasure, and he’s determined to find his share. But when his grandfather dies, leaving a letter boasting of Templar gold, he’s sure it’s nothing more than an old man’s delusion. Everything changes when he finds his grandfather’s map. With high hopes, he leads Mattie’s team into the rain forest and finds himself overwhelmed by the beautiful blonde. When the group is attacked and has to fight its way out of the jungle, Travis discovers something more precious than gold–the love of a woman who’s made him want to be a better man.

Excerpt from Untouched:

“Dr. Wentworth?” a deep, compelling voice asked.

Mattie looked up. “Yes,” was all she could muster, spellbound by the pair of striking, brandy-colored eyes of a tall, well-built man standing before her.

She swallowed to clear her throat.

“I was told that you might need a guide.” He reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a folded slip of paper. “Here are my credentials. I’ve been a wilderness guide for over ten years, and I know the area.”

Uncharacteristically, Mattie found herself tongue-tied. She had never seen such a gorgeous man in her life. His hair was a rich chocolate brown, cut short on the sides, slightly longer on top. His nose was straight and his features were perfectly proportioned. His lips were strong, firm, and the color of deep Mediterranean coral. From the stubble on his chin, it looked as if he hadn’t shaven in a few days. The effect gave him a rugged, outdoorsy appeal. The only thing less than perfect on the man was a thin, white scar running from his nose to his lip. She wondered how he’d gotten it. An occupational hazard perhaps?

To fight the urge to sigh, she unfolded the paper and studied his certifications. The résumé was impressive if it was on the up-and-up. “You know this area well then, Mr., ah…” She scanned the sheet of paper, then returned her attention to him. “Kane.”

He nodded.

His eyes mesmerized Mattie. She blinked and hauled her mind back on track. “Do you think you could be ready to leave later this afternoon? We want to get started right away cataloging plants. We’ve been prepared since we arrived four days ago. The guide we’d originally commissioned died the day we landed in Manu.”

His arched brows drew together. “I’d need to get my own supplies rounded up, but I could probably be ready by then. Could you tell me the name of the guide who died?”

“Yes, he was a local man. Chaz Juntas.”

Pain crossed his features.

“You knew him?”

“Yes. He was a good man. We’d gone into the Amazon a number of times together.”

“I’m sorry.” Mattie looked down at her cup, noting her shaky hands. Was it the reaction to Travis Kane or was the dream still working on her nerves?

“Have you rented trucks for the trip yet?” His question had her glancing back at him. “If not, I could see what I can do. How many are in your party?”

“Six altogether. Two men and four women.”

His eyes narrowed. “Four women?”

“Yes. Is that a problem?” Was the guy a chauvinist?

He inhaled, then shook his head. “No, no problem. What about the trucks? Have you got them lined up then?”

“Yes. The supplies are already loaded too. Chaz had arranged it all before we’d arrived.”

“Where are they now?”

“At the edge of town. The authorities have been keeping an eye on them to make sure nothing is stolen.”

“I’ll meet you there around two o’clock. Be ready to move out immediately. I want to get a few hours’ travel in before we need to set up camp.”

“We’ll be ready, Mr. Kane.”

He turned and walked away.

Mattie sighed.

Had she been too quick to hire him? Had the man’s qualifications won her over or did his looks and physique have her practically begging him to guide them? She wasn’t sure–and even if she were, she didn’t care. They had a sober guide who didn’t give her the creeps and that was all that mattered right now.

Untouched garnered Recommended Read status at Joyfully Reviewed! Congratulations, Jerri! Read the review here!

Untouched is now available on Kindle. Buy it here!

Thanks for stopping by, Jerri! Do come again:-)

Welcome to Author Veronica Lynch!

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Our first author visitor arriving on the All Romantic Suspense Blog tour is Veronica Lynch! Welcome, Veronica. Please tell us a little about yourself!

As Veronica Lynch, I have been writing professionally for less than six months. Under another pseudonym I’ve been at a computer for almost 30 years. I enjoy writing romance which eventually turns into romantic suspense, even if I don’t want it to!

While I patiently (!) await the release of The List (March 2011), part of the Class of ’85 series for the Wild Rose Press, I enjoy hearing readers’ thoughts about my first published short story: Those Who Wait, from Decadent Publishing. For more about me and the books I create, go to www.Veronica-Lynch.blogspot.com or www.KatHenry.com.

Now for the fun part, Veronica! I’m going to ask you some questions to help our readers learn more about you and your work!

What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

The road to publication is often rocky and offers many detours. I found that connecting with experienced authors is a good way to start. Joining an established writers group which specializes in the genres which appeal to you is important. Connect with a critique group of authors who take time to listen and offer constructive criticism. In return, offer the same to them. At first, expect rejection. Listen to what agents and editors are saying in those “thanks but no thanks” letters. If it seems like gobbledy-gook, ask an experienced author to explain it to you. Attend as many conferences as you can afford and play sponge at as many workshops as you can fit into the schedule. And don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Tell us about your first acceptance.

I must preface this response with a short explanation:  I had been writing romance fiction since 1987 though I did not get serious, (read:  pay attention to what the experts were saying until 1993). Once I wised up, I began to enter contests and taking the advice of those infinitely more experienced than I and worked steadily though slowly. At the urging of writer friends at New Jersey Romance Writers, I submitted to Wings ePress. I was sweating bullets as I followed the submission guidelines and sent the query in via email. Within an hour, the editor requested the full manuscript. Within two weeks (no joke) she offered me a contract. “Captain Marvelous” was released August 1, 2004 while I was attending RWA in Dallas. Holding a copy of that book in my hands felt as powerful as the day I held my first-born child in my arms. I still get teary when I think of that day.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Covet by JR Ward (these are not your granny’s guardian angels!); Primal Fear by William Diehl (Aaron Stampler will go on to terrorize Martin Vail and his partners in two future books); The Bannerman Solution by John R. Maxim (can a group of reformed contract killers lead normal lives in suburban Connecticut?); Sinners and Saints by Eileen Dreyer (as a hurricane approaches the Big Easy, a woman searches for her sister).

What is the last book you read?

Samantha Power’s Genocide:  A Problem From Hell.

What are you currently working on?

A series of novellas based on a poem by Henry van Dyke titled Those Who Love. It will be based in a fictional city on the shores of Lake Ontario in western New York State. Characters are baby boomer age and are in some way connected to the local criminal justice system.

Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

My favorite vacation spot is the west coast of Ireland. The cities I’d like to visit are Prague and Budapest.

Do you have a favorite book and/or author?

There are too many to count, but I will read anything by JD Robb, William Diehl, John R. Maxim, David Wiltse, and Vince Flynn.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I recently found a quote from Madeleine Albright, former Ambassador to the United Nations:  “There is a place in Hell reserved for women who don’t help other women.” This sums up what I try to put in all my books.

I’m not saying all women should go out and demonstrate against domestic violence, protest the war in Iraq, or storm the doors of the local HMO because we all know health care in our society – as it exists today – sucks. I am saying we should become informed on the issues most important to us, then vote our conscience.

Perhaps you could give a few dollars to the local homeless shelter or give a bag of non-perishables or gently-used clothing to the nearest food pantry. Lastly, we can turn off the TV set when a program with offensive content comes on screen – then let the advertisers know we won’t use their products as long as they continue to support programming against your values. I used to be a rabble rouser. Bet you couldn’t tell.

What do you like to do for fun?

I design and make tote bags, purses, diaper bags, swaddling blankets, boppy covers and slings for fun and profit. I sell them online and at craft shows. It’s a great way to ease my creative need.

What questions are you never asked in interviews but wish you were?

What are my favorite TV shows:  The Closer, Blue Bloods, Leverage, Human Target, The Defenders.

Thanks, Veronica ~ very interesting interview! Now, what we’ve all been waiting for…how about an excerpt from The List?

The List ~ EXCERPT:

Frustrated with the holdup, Fee glanced around the room, hoping to see  Dru the minute she entered the ballroom. A hand on her arm claimed her attention.

“Here comes someone you should meet.”

“Who?”

“Last year’s Eastman Award winner,” Rafe said, “And a helluva nice guy.”

“Where?”

“There, coming towards us.”

One nano-second later, all thoughts of revenge evaporated like steam out of a boiling kettle.

Thick gold hair flecked with gray grazed the collar of his jacket. His features were weathered, as if he’d already lived ten times over. Broad through the shoulders and chest, and narrow at the waist and hips, he possessed the long legs of a broken-field runner. Moving across the parquet floor as if born to a runway, he looked confident and at ease with himself. Without disrupting that graceful, fluid motion, he undid his tie, then shrugged out of his suit jacket.

She’d almost given up on finding a man like this.

This one had the Look.

Books on my nightstand

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There’s always a stack of wonderful books on my nightstand just waiting to be read. What’s there now?

Captive Queen by Alison Weir – all about one of my favorite historical figures, Eleanor of Aquitaine. I’ve always admired her and have been fascinated by her story. There’s nothing I like better than a book about a strong, powerful, yet feminine woman. Weir also wrote a biography of her entitled: Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Life. I really enjoyed The Six Wives of Henry the VIII by Weir so I’m really looking forward to the fictionalized account of her life written by a woman who also penned her biography. The reviews on Amazon weren’t so great ~ most of the negative reviews focused upon the erotic elements of the book. I don’t know if this is a departure from her usual style, but as a writer of erotica, I don’t think I’ll be offended.

Telling Stories: An Anthology for Writers edited by Joyce Carol Oates – Not so much a guide on how to write, but filled with examples of great writing, giving one something to aspire to.

The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century by Ian Mortimer – According to Publisher’s Weekly, “Mortimer’s immersive visitor’s-guide approach to popular history gives readers a seamless sense of being there.” That’s exactly what I hope this book will provide. I’m hoping it will be a great reference work for this period of history. I am very drawn to the world of medieval France and England. Perhaps it will inspire a work of fiction? (Another great book about the Middle Ages is, A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous Fourteenth Century, by Barbara Tuchman ~ highly recommended!)

Also, just finished, The Last Will of Moira Leahy, by Therese Walsh – This debut novel was quite good and I became totally immersed in the story. Twins, Rome, a keris…intrigued? If your reading tastes lean toward magic, mystery, and adventure, you’ll like this book.

I’d better get writing…