Ready to Wed by Cindi Madsen-Review and Interview with the Author

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Sandy

Ready to Wed by Cindi Madsen-Review and Interview with the Author

Ready To Wed
by Cindi Madsen
Release Date: July 22, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Ready To Wed

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 22, 2014

Is there anything worse than getting jilted at the altar? How about being a wedding planner getting jilted at the altar for your own wedding…on a cruise already out at sea? When Las Vegas resident Dakota Halifax loses her fiance, she swears she’s given up on love altogether. She pours her heart into her weekly wedding advice column and fills her days planning events to celebrate others’ forever love. When her childhood best friend Brendan moves to Las Vegas and they reconnect, she starts to wonder if maybe love could find her again. But then her ex reappears, begging for another chance. Can someone once-burned and twice-shy ever find her way down the aisle again?

•••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: READY TO WED is a contemporary, adult stand alone romantic storyline by Cindi Madsen. The focus of the story is on wedding planner and columnist Dakota Halifax and the mess that is her life. From planning other people’s weddings to writing about the do’s and don’t’s of wedding etiquette, Dakota will find herself on the receiving end of a destination wedding and her fiance refuses to show. Humiliated and heartbroken Dakota returns home to Vegas where she discovers there is more than one person waiting in the wings to take her down.

Told from first person POV (Dakota) the premise follows Dakota in the weeks and days following her non-wedding. From discovering the truth behind her groom’s no-show to a vindictive co-worker at the local paper where she works, Dakota struggles with a place to stay and getting on with her life. Enter Brendan West –Dakota’s former childhood friend and sweetheart, and the man with whom she will fall in love. Dakota and Brendan’s reconnection sparks something deep within each of their souls, but Dakota is a little gun shy when it comes to putting her heart on the line-one again. The relationship is slow to build; there are no sex scenes; but the love story is sure to please.

Cindi Madsen pulls the reader into a charming, sweet and romantic storyline about two people who belong together. Once best friends in every possible way, Brendan’s family moved away from Vegas years before and his return may be just what Dakota needs.

The secondary characters include Dakota’s friend and wedding caterer Jillian; Dakota’s ex fiancé Grant; and a mixture of brides, bridezillas, co-workers and friends.

READY TO WED is a breath of fresh air. No major complications; no erotic sex; no confusing scenarios or bitter exes. Sometimes things happen for a reason, and in this case, not getting married set into motion a string of events that resulted in Dakota reconnecting with the first love of her life.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview blue

TRC: Hi Cindi and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of READY TO WED

Cindi Madsen Cindi: Thanks so much!

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Cindi: Goodreads / Website Twitter / Facebook

Cindi: I’m obsessed with music and shoes, love to dance, drink a lot of Mountain Dew, and of course love books!

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Cindi: Thanks to a teacher named Shelley Russell, who got me hooked on reading the Anne of Green Gables series, I was always looking for more books to read. As I decided to give writing a shot, I was lucky enough to meet with a fabulous group of writers and we formed a critique group. Even though we’re all crazy busy now, we still cheer each other on.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Cindi: TV & movies. I especially love when I discover a new TV series on Netflix and can plow through several episodes at a time.

TRC: READY TO WED is your latest contemporary romance release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Cindi: I went on a cruise with two of my girlfriends and as we were disembarking in Jamaica, I saw this bride standing all alone & I thought what if her groom doesn’t show up. That’d make one awkward boat ride home. So of course I decided to write a book where that happened, and in order to make it even worse for poor Dakota, I made her a well-known Las Vegas wedding planner.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

Cindi: Dakota has some similarities to my sister, who was a tomboy as a kid and is now an organizational perfectionist (ie, control freak) I’ve teased her a bit about the control freak part and she’ll admit it, so I figure that makes it fair game. Let that be a lesson. Everyone I care about will eventually be used for inspiration in my books. Lol.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters –Dakota and Brendan-which actors or models would best represent your ideal image?

Cindi: Dakota would be Rachel Bilson & Brendan would be Justin Hartley. I’ve got a whole Pinterest board with their images & tons of wedding pictures on it if anyone’s interested. (You should be, because Justin Hartley is shirtless in some. Hehe) http://www.pinterest.com/cindimadsen/ready-to-wed/

TRC: Is this a stand alone storyline or a part of a series? If it is a part of a series, how many books do you have planned ?

Cindi: It’s a stand alone. Cinderella Screwed Me Over and Ready to Wed both have the romantic comedy aspect and hopefully fans of one will also like the other.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story?

Cindi: I watched a lot of wedding planning shows and I’ve been to Vegas a few times, so that helped me pull those aspects together. I think the hardest part was casino security, and finding out enough to work in Brendan’s job. Other than that, I just felt kinda bad for putting Dakota through being stood up at the altar. Just not bad enough to not do it.

TRC: You also write the YA paranormal –Cipher Series. Would you please tell us something about the series and what plans do you have for the future for your heroine Summer Davis?

Cipher Series

Cindi: The third book, Resolution, came out in February, and that’s the last book in the series. Basically it’s about Summer, who finds out she’s a Cipher—which means she’s supposed to help people resolve issues with their loved ones before one of them passes on. Of course accomplishing that isn’t easy and can be emotionally & physically draining & she has a hard time not getting attached to the people she helps. It’s one of my favorite series, and I have a special place in my heart for Summer and Troy.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

Cindi: Patience isn’t a virtue I have, so I usually scream at those books. I think it works for some authors, and I’ll admit I set aside days to read what happens next when the next book comes out if I’m really into the series, but I like to have at least some closure with a heavy side of kissing at the endings of my books.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Cindi: I’d say it’s about 50-50 with most characters. Once I get to know them, I kinda know where they need to go, but they also surprise me sometimes. Then there are some characters *cough* Connor Maguire from Resisting the Hero *cough* who refuse to do what I tell them to do.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Cindi: I feel like we need to experience things that are happening to them like they’re happening to us. I want my readers to sigh, laugh, cry, and fall in love along with my characters. I think part of that is just adding layers to your characters & then showing us the emotion instead of telling it. As writers we sometimes experience so much of our story in our heads that we forget to get it on the page. Good critique partners & editors will help you fix that, though.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Cindi: Music, walks, & TV. Sometimes I’ll get so close to a project or so frustrated, and all it takes is the right song to spark inspiration. Sometimes I need to go for a walk, get away from the pressure of staring at a screen and think with a side of fresh air. And sometimes I need to relax and watch a few hours of TV or a movie, where I don’t have to be responsible for the story. I use a combination of all three when I’m writing & editing.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Cindi: You should see the conversations I have with Rachel Harris-FB, email, text. We mix it up. And actually, no one should see those because they’re madness & inside jokes & people would question our sanity, but she’s saved me so many times! I also have a few local author friends who I regularly meet up with to chat or talk story. And my husband hears a ton of ideas, most of which he responds to with either 1) have aliens come or 2) add ninjas. I’m not sure why I keep asking him. Haha.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Cindi: Make all my deadlines, learn to balance time with my family & work better, and travel out of the country

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Cindi: I used to be crazy shy and quiet as a kid. I don’t think anyone would call me either now. Definitely not quiet anyway.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Cindi: I’m starting edits on Second Chance Ranch, the first book in my new Bliss Second Chances series.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Cindi: Jazz hands? Happy dancing? I guess that I like to jam out to music & dance.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food – Pizza

Favorite Dessert – Ice cream

Favorite TV Show – Veronica Mars or Friday Night Lights. Please don’t make me choose between the two.

Last Movie You Saw – Rush. Loved it!

Favorite Musical Group – Paramore & Three Days Grace. Again, choosing would hurt my soul. (I’m not dramatic or anything.)

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Milk chocolate for sure!

Secret Celebrity Crush – Jai Courtney. Guess it’s not so secret now 😉

Last Vacation Destination – New Orleans. Well, it was sorta for work, too, but it was so much fun!

Pet Peeve – Wet socks. I HATE them!

TRC: Thank you Cindi for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

Cindi: Thanks so much!

How To Reprimand Your Rock Star by Mina Vaughn-Review, Interview and Giveaway with the Author

Posted on July 20, 2014 by Sandy

HOW TO REPRIMAND YOUR ROCK STAR by Mina Vaughn-Review ,Interview and Giveaway with the Author

How To Reprimand Your Rock Star Domme Nation #2 by Mina Vaughn Release Date: July 21, 2014 Genre: adult, contemporary, BDSM

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About the book: Release Date July 21, 2014 In this fun and saucy romance novel, all-star college basketball player Thea dominates on the courts—and off—with a rock star who is determined to win her over.

Thea is a star basketball player at UConn on track to be Rookie of the Year. That is, if she can stay focused on the game. Lately that hasn’t been going so well, as her knee has been bothering her. But that’s not the only thing on her mind…

Ever since rock star Keaton Lowe surprised her in the girl’s locker room, Thea can’t stop thinking about him. On top of his status and enticing ways, he seems to know everything about her. But some of his actions cross the line, and Keaton needs to be punished. Will Thea keep her head in the game, or get distracted by her other favorite pastime—reprimanding her rock star?

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HOW TO REPRIMAND YOUR ROCK STAR is the second instalment in Mina Vaughn’s adult contemporary Domme-Nation erotic series. Told from first person POV (Thea) the premise follows nineteen year old college freshman and women’s basketball star rookie Thea as she discovers the dominant side of her sexual nature. Finding rock star Keaton Lowe in the girl’s locker room brings out all of Thea’s dominant nature and the two begin a whirl wind courtship where Thea discovers that Keaton is the submissive to her dominant side.

Mina Vaughn writes erotic storylines that feature female leads in a position of dominance. The story follows Thea’s realization and education both on and off the court that one must take control to be a success and get what you want. In this, Thea will become a force on the basketball court as well as in the bedroom with Keaton Lowe.

The relationship between Thea and Keaton is based on power and control. This is not a story about sadism or masochism. There is no physical use of pain or force. How To Reprimand Your Rock Star is a story about one woman’s self discovery of what she needs and what she wants. But saying that, I did not feel the love connection between our couple-it felt more of a contract based on wants and needs; in my opinion there was nothing intimate or romantic about the relationship although Keaton did attempt to bring some humor into the situation. Thea is a woman with wants and needs, and Keaton is the man to submit to her demands.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
Reviewed by Sandy

TRC: Hi Mina and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of HOW TO REPRIMAND YOUR ROCK STAR. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

FOLLOW Mina: Website/ Twitter/ Facebook/ Goodreads/

Mina: Hey there, thanks for having me! Let’s see, a little about me. I’m a girly-girl who loves makeup—like, I could LIVE at Sephora—but I also like working out and weights and sports. I’m an undercover tomboy, haha. I’ve lived all over New England, but I have had it with the awful winters and I’m considering moving south. I also have a crazy shoe fetish and I’m a foodie and a half.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Mina: Well, I started off writing fanfic, which was a lot of fun, but even before that I was always coming up with stories. My family talks about when I was a kid, I’d coordinate all the play with the neighbors. I’d come up with storylines, characters, and make them all act it out. I’m doing much more grown up content now, but I still feel like I’m playing around with characters and plot lines in the same way.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Mina: I love a good cup of tea to relax, and as crazy as it sounds, working out relaxes me. Go figure!

TRC: HOW TO REPRIMAND YOUR ROCK STAR is your latest contemporary erotic romance release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Mina: It’s the story of Thea, a college freshman trying to find her way and her voice. When she encounters Keaton Lowe in her basketball team’s locker room, she’s drawn to him and the powerful way he makes her feel. The two begin to explore the bondage and domination side of BDSM, with her at the helm. But she has to navigate another two major obstacles—the NCAA Division I tournament and what it’s like to date a world-renowned rock star. Thea’s got a lot on her plate, but luckily, it’s all good stuff.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

Mina: As for Thea, I had lots of athlete friends in college. I was always inspired by their drive, and their ability to balance being hot chicks with being absolute kick ass sports goddesses. With Keaton, he’s a combination of Green Day’s Billie Joe (spunk, blue eyes, impishness) and Tom Hiddleston (the voice, the swagger).

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters –Thea and Keaton-which actors or models would best represent your ideal image?

Mina: Tom Hiddleston as Keaton and Sarah Shahi (only with her hair curled) for Thea. TRC: How many books do you have planned for the DOMME-NATION series ?

Mina: Right now there will be three, but I won’t rule out more! TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story? Mina: Basketball tourney timing! I was lucky enough to have my friend, fellow writer Sarah Henning, to help me with this one. She has covered NCAA women’s basketball and really helped me shift around my story’s time line to coincide with what the real schedule would look like.

TRC: Many authors have followed a particular pattern as it pertains to storylines about BDSM and D/s relationships but you flip the scenario around with a female as the Dominant in several of your storylines. What was the decision behind this particular storyline trope and concept?

Mina: I was tired of alpha males, to be honest. I was so sick of guys who were just being asses, and I thought, “Gee, I’d love to turn the tables on him.” Thus DommeNation was born. Ladies in charge, baby!

TRC: Will all of your storylines in the Domme-Nation series feature a female domme as the leading character?

Mina: Yes, all of the DommeNation series will have women on top, however, they’ll all be in different states in their lives. Thea is just learning to be a domme whereas Cerise was one for a long time!

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Mina: I’m a plotter, bigtime. I need to know where a story is going. I map it out and make sure it makes sense, and then use the basic premise to direct the characters and where they go. Sometimes they do surprise me! ☺

Mina: What a writer must do—keep the story on the border between believable and unbelievable. Believable so they can relate, unbelievable so that it’s a fantasy! I see writers fail when I don’t get hooked early on. The first few chapters are so key—people have precious little time, so if you don’t hook em early, it’s over!

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Mina: This is 100% the reason why I outline. I never get writer’s block because I can rely on a good outline to save the day. Speaking of save, if you want to learn how to write a killer outline, read Save the Cat by Blake Snyder. It’s basically an equation for a book!

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Mina: I have a ridiculously amazing support system, a sisterhood of sorts, and we call each other The Filets. It consists of Helena Hunting, Shannon Lumetta, Alice Clayton, Nina Bocci, E L James, Debra Anastasia, Leisa Rayven and Katherine Stevens. I love those girls like you would not believe.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Mina: Get published in print.

Keep writing what I love.

Meet more fans and writer friends.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Mina: I know karate.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Mina: How to Punish Your Playboy, the third book in the DommeNation series! It’s about a feisty pin-up model Veronika, who meets an arrogant, sexy restauranteur named Aston. Stay tuned for hot cars, delicious foods, and some serious steaminess.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Mina: Thank you for having me!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food—Foie Gras

Favorite Dessert—Macaroon cookies

Favorite TV Show—True Detective

Last Movie You Saw— Chef

Favorite Musical Group—FALL OUT BOY

Dark or Milk Chocolate— Milk

Secret Celebrity Crush—Tom Hiddleston (not a secret at all)

Last Vacation Destination—New Orleans

Pet Peeve—Close-talkers

TRC: Thank you Mina for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

Mina Vaughn is offering an ecopy of HOW TO REPRIMAND YOUR ROCK STAR to three (3) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry

5. LIKE Mina Vaughn on Facebook

6. The giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

7. The giveaway runs from July 20 to July 25, 2014

Vampire Trouble by Sara Humphreys -Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on July 17, 2014 by Sandy

Vampire Trouble by Sara Humphreys-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Vampire Trouble
Dead in the City #2
by Sara Humphreys
Genre: paranormal, romance, adult, contemporary
Release Date: July 1, 2014

Vampire Trouble

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Shane Quesada, a four-century old vampire sentry, is known for cold, unemotional precision when hunting rogue vampires.

Maya Robertson is a youngling vampire who will not be controlled—and to prove it, she rejects Shane’s protection—only to find herself in over her head with an alpha werewolf.

Soon, a war between the coven and the werewolf clan ignites, and Maya and Shane flee to Louisiana, where their passion for each other grows—as does Maya’s power. When she finds herself at the center of the conflict, will she finally trust Shane with her life—and her heart?

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: VAMPIRE TROUBLE is the second instalment in Sara Humphreys’ contemporary, adult Dead in the City paranormal romance series that is a spinoff from her popular Amoveo Legend series. This is four hundred year old vampire Shane Quesada and youngling vampire Maya Robertson’s story. Maya was first introduced in book one Tall, Dark and Vampire. Because of the Amoveo Legend crossover, many of the secondary characters will be familiar to readers of Sara’s other series.

The focus of the storyline is on Shane and Maya’s building relationship as well as the slowly evolving war between the werewolves and the New York Coven. One werewolf in particular has targeted Maya for extermination and Shane has been ordered to guard Maya with his life. Finding themselves secluded in Louisiana, Maya will discover that she is much more than a youngling vampire and the wolves are determined to end her life. A gypsy woman will begin to uncover the truth about Maya’s past and it is a past that has followed her to the Bayou.

The relationship between Shane and Maya is tepid and volatile. Shane has been attracted to Maya in a way that can only be explained through DNA but Maya’s attitude, anxiety and acidic personality are something that only a bloodmate would find appealing. As the storyline builds, so too does the relationship that will find our couple fighting for their lives as well as their love. The sex is sensual, passionate and arousing but Shane’s love for Maya may not be enough to keep our couple safe or together.

The world building continues from book one with the inclusion of many of the previous storyline characters including the New York Coven czars Doug and Olivia and a number of the Amoveo Legend vampires, shifters and supernatural powers. Sara does an amazing job crossing over and the blending between the two series with the familiarity of many names, places and powers.

VAMPIRE TROUBLE is a seductive storyline where two vampires will find love and a happily ever after. Sara Humphreys writes an intelligent, inventive and spirited series where the impossible seems possible and the improbable has already began.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview
TRC: Hi Sara and welcome back to The Reading Café

Sara: Thank you! I’m so excited to be here 🙂

TRC: Congratulations on the release of VAMPIRE TROUBLE –the second book of your Dead in the City paranormal series.

Tall Dark and Vampire When last we talked –August 2013-you had just released the first installment in the Dead in the City series- TALL, DARK AND VAMPIRE. How were the book and series received by the readers?

ORDER: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Sara: I was thrilled to see so many of my Amoveo Legend readers go right to the new vamp series and welcome it with open arms. It was also a great way to connect with new readers. So far so good!

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of VAMPIRE TROUBLE?

Sara: Sure! Maya is a vamp bartender at The Coven, the hottest Goth nightclub in NYC that is run by a coven of vampires. Maya Robertson is a youngling vampire who was turned only five years ago. Her only clear memory of her human life is the night she was turned. Raped and beaten, her maker, Olivia, found her in an alley behind the nightclub and turned her. Maya relives the attack every day in her dreams. To mantain some sens of control, she hunts human men who look like her attacker but never kills them. She feeds on them and toys with them the way a cat would with a mouse. Let’s just say, the girl has some issues.

Vampire In Trouble July 2014 Shane Quesada is a four hundred year old vampire sentry and an elite soldier for The Presidium, the vampire government. Nothing rattles him. Until he meets Maya and is unexpectedly pulled into her nightmares. Vampires stop dreaming about ten years after they are turned, so when Shane finds himself in the dreamscape after centuries of leaden slumber, he knows Maya is more than just a random youngling.

When a pack of werewolves comes to the city unannounced, Maya finds herself in over her head. The impulsive and tempestuous little vamp causes her share of trouble but let’s just say that Shane is there to help her navigate her increasingly dangerous future.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Sara: It was important to make Maya likable because in TALL, DARK, AND VAMPIRE (DIC #1), she wasn’t particularly popular. She’s kind of a pain in the ass and a bit of a spoiled brat but in this book readers get to find out why Maya is the way she is. Also, due to her violent past, I wanted to be sure she was empowered by Shane but not dependent upon him. It was challenging to find that balance.

TRC: UNCLAIMED was the December 2013 release in your Amoveo Legend series. What do you have planned next for the series?

ORDER: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Sara: In February 2015 we will be releasing UNBOUND. It’s an Amoveo Legend novella featuring an Amoveo Guardian named Zachary. Readers met him in UNCLAIMED and his story is a bit different from all the others. I don’t want to give too much away but it has a Romeo and Juliet vibe…but with a happy ending. I also have two other Amoveo Legend novels planned, one of which is Steven’s story. He’s become a fan favorite and the poor guy got put through the ringer, so he definitely needs his HEA.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

Sara: I’m okay with cliffhangers in romance as long as it’s not about the hero and the heroine. The readers deserve to see the hero and heroine get an HEA even if it’s an HEA “for now”. That being said, I think it’s perfectly acceptable to have background characters involved in cliffhangers.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Sara: I start with an overall path in mind but more often than not, the characters tell me where to take them.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Sara: My husband has been my biggest cheerleader from day one and if it weren’t for his support, I wouldn’t be doing this for a living.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Sara: I love to read and I’m a movie junkie. When I turn in a book, I treat myself and go to the movies alone in the middle of the day. It’s awesome.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Sara:
1. Improve my writing. Every book should be better than the last.
2. Make the NYT and/or USA Today Bestseller lists.
3. Publish my YA series–Daughters of Heaven and Hell.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Sara: I’m not telling. That’s why few people know about it 😉

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Sara: BRAVE THE HEAT. It’s book one in my first contemporary romance series, The McGuire Brothers. Look for it next July.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Sara: Just to say thank you…I’m so very lucky to do what I do for a living.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Song

At the moment….The Sound of Sunshine.

Favorite Musical Group

The Eagles

Last Movie You Saw

Constantine

Last Book You Read

Her Perfect Mate by Paige Tyler

Last Vacation Destination

New Orleans for #RT14.

Pet Peeve

Mean people. They suck.

TRC: Thank you Sara for taking the time to answer our questions. It is always a pleasure catching up with our favorite authors.

giveaway

Sara and her publisher are offering a paper copy of VAMPIRE TROUBLE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Like Sara Humphreys on Twitter

6. Giveaway is open to USA/Canada only.

7. Giveaway runs from July 17-July 22 , 2014

Rock Me, Gently by M.J. Schiller-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on June 26, 2014 by Sandy

Rock Me, Gently by M.J. Schiller-Review,Interview and Giveaway

Rock Me, Gently
Rocking Romance #4
by MJ Schiller
Genre: adult, contemporary, rock stars
Release Date: April 24, 2014

Rock Me Gently

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Like so many others, their romance started in Las Vegas…

He’s a rock star. She’s an ad exec. After almost having a one night affair in Sin City, Josh can’t get Cassie out of his mind. Why had she run out on him?

Like so many others, their romance started with a shot of tequila…

When the Josh Dunningham of Money Back Guaranteed tries to seduce her, Cassie is taken aback. Sure, he’s hot. And he could definitely rock her world. But can she have a fling with a man she doesn’t even know?

Like so many others, their romance turned rocky…

When Cassie returns to Chicago and finds a ten-foot tall Josh Dunningham on a radio station’s banner across from her office, she is tortured by memories of their short time together. When they meet again, things explode—in a bad way—and Josh has to prove himself to Cassie to earn her trust. But will he succeed when outside forces also want to tear them apart? When Cassie receives threatening letters and is attacked in her home, Josh is determined to find out who is behind it. But will the stalker’s encore performance bring an end to their show once and for all?

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: ROCK ME, GENTLY is the latest release in M.J. Schiller’s contemporary, adult, Rocking Romance series about the bad boys of rock and roll. Every story is a stand alone and not interconnected. This is Josh Dunningham-front man for the rock group Money Back Guaranteed and advertising executive Cassie McCallister’s storyline.

Told from alternating close third person POV the premise follows the building relationship between Josh and Cassie, and the eventual discovery that someone is targeting Cassie for destruction. Josh and Cassie first met in Las Vegas where Cassie and her friend were in town for a little R&R. Josh is a bit of a man-whore and Cassie was his next intended conquest but Cassie ran before anything could happen. Josh could not get Cassie out of his mind and sets into motion a plan to make Cassie his own.

Josh is the epitome of a rock and roll god-alcohol, drugs and women but something about Cassie pulls at Josh and he intends to discover the who and what of Cassie McCallister. As one band mate considers retirement another considers revenge and uses everything and everyone to get what he wants. Money Back Guaranteed, for all of their success, is a band on the verge of falling apart.

Cassie and Josh’s relationship is tumultuous in the beginning. Cassie has a difficult time trusting anyone with her heart and Josh has a past that considers Cassie expendable and that past sees Cassie as standing in the way. When threatening letters turn to physical violence, Cassie’s safety is compromised by the lifestyle of the man who has stolen her heart.

MJ Schiller pulls the reader into a fast paced, emotional and sometimes humorous storyline of one couple’s journey towards a happily ever after. The secondary characters including friends, family and wanna be’s are colorful, dangerous, and drive a portion of the premise. We get a revealing look at both Josh and Cassie’s background: from emotional childhood drama to their adult successes and failures. No one’s past is without a few skeletons in the closet.

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview-Gold

TRC: Hi MJ and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Website Twitter / Facebook

MJ Schiller MJ: When not diligently working on honing my craft, I am a lunch lady! No, really! I enjoy it immensely. I get to work with kids and take a nap every day when I get home. What’s not to like? I have been married for over 26 years this June, and have a nineteen-year-old (it pains me to write that number) and three seventeen-year-olds. That’s right, triplets! They will be seniors next year and then off to college at our alma mater, the University of Missouri-Columbia, affectionately known as Mizzou. I’m in a pre-mourning stage for my babies. We will be up frequently for football games. I’m consoling myself with that.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

MJ: Oh, man! So many… I think my dad was a big influence. He was a great storyteller and he always encouraged me no matter what I did in life. I worried that he would be disappointed when I left teaching because he paid for my degree, but he told me that whatever made me happy made him happy. Author Laurie Larsen was also a big influence. She invited me to my first Romance Writers of America meeting and is now my editor!

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

MJ: Umm…I like to karaoke. Yes, I’m one of those. So when I’m not writing about rock stars I’m up on stage pretending to be one!

Rock Me Gently TRC: ROCK ME, GENTLY is your April 2014 release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

MJ: I had fun with this one! Rocker Josh Dunningham is out for the usual evening of drinking and easy sex. What he doesn’t count on is meeting Midwest advertising exec Cassie McCallister. Downing a shot of tequila he watches a second shot of the golden liquor as it travels down the bar to this beautiful blonde. After that, the poor guy doesn’t know what hits him!

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters of ROCK ME, GENTLY which actors, models or musicians best fit your ideal image?

MJ: I would cast the gorgeous Colin O’Donoghue, that hotty Hook (from Once Upon a Time) as Josh. Though tempted to cast his love interest on the show,Jennifer Morrison, since they have great chemistry, she’s not quite right for Cassie. And I’m sure a dead woman would have great chemistry with Colin O’Donoghue. A young Cameron Diaz would be my choice.

TRC: You have written (to date) four non-interconnected storylines focusing on the life and love of a rock musician/musical star. What was behind the decision to not concentrate on one particular group of musicians but a series of unrelated storylines?

Rocking Romance Series

MJ: I’m not sure it was a conscious decision. I wrote TRAPPED UNDER ICE, and then I just couldn’t get the rock star out of my system, and ABANDON ALL HOPE came next. It is a much different book, Chad and Chase are as dissimilar as ketchup and mustard (both condiments, but totally different tastes). All I can say for the next two is I’m a glutton for rock stars. For BETWEEN ROCK AND A HARD PLACE I mixed things up and made the heroine the rock star. I really like how that story turned out. I don’t even know where ROCK ME, GENTLY came from!

TRAPPED UNDER ICE ebook is currently FREE :

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Click HERE for our review of TRAPPED UNDER ICE

TRC: How many books do you have planned focusing on musicians and their loves?

MJ: Interesting question. My next book out, DAMAGE DONE, is about a musician as well, but he’s not a rock star. He’s a small time rocker playing the bar scene, and it is set in Ireland. It has a whole different flavor to it. It is from my REAL ROMANCE COLLECTION which centers on characters with more standard positions, waitresses, construction workers, EMTs… Another book that I’ll have out next year stars a roadie, so I do seem to lean toward the music scene.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

MJ: Not this particular book. TRAPPED UNDER ICE was inspired a lot by Nickelback and their music, but ROCK ME, GENTLY is entirely fictional. I guess the closest scene to my real life is the one where they karaoke.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story?

MJ: I often have challenges because people tend to look at rock stars with certain stereotypical traits. My rock stars have some of those traits, but they are real people. Josh is no different. He has a family, a childhood, like other people (those might be glossed over in other rock books that concentrate strictly on the rock scene), vulnerabilities… It is also always hard to do the reformed bad boy theme as you risk making them come off so poorly at the beginning that they turn your reader off.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

MJ: The only real series I have is coming out later this year. At the close of the first book, there is a definite ending, but just a hint of a problem brewing in the background. The close of the second is similar. It is definitely the end of an era, but still a question of what is to come next. As a reader I guess I’m not very discerning. I like to sit back and let the writer take me where they want to go. I don’t look for flaws and something would have to be blaringly wrong with the book for me not to like it. I might be annoyed with a cliffhanger ending, but not enough for it to leave a bad taste in my mouth. And if the first book was good, I’d look forward to the next for sure.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

MJ: I think it is pretty much the characters steering the car and I’m just along for the ride.

MJ: As a beginning writer, I struggled with point of view switches. I was heavily influenced by Nora Roberts, who is able to pull them off seamlessly. I’ve come to realize that for the reader to really experience the physical feelings, as well as the emotions of your character, you need to strive for a deeper point of view, stay inside one character’s head longer. I hope that answers your question.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon for many authors.. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

MJ: Okay, please don’t tell anybody this, but I haven’t really experienced writer’s block yet. It sounds awful and I dread the day it happens. But I did things a little differently than most. I wrote twelve books, then decided to get serious about my writing and learn more about my craft. As a result, I’ve spent the last several years revising those first twelve and so I haven’t really written anything new in quite some time. To be honest, that worries me a little. Will I be able to get my mojo back when the time comes? It will be interesting…

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

MJ: With my hubby and kids, friends, co-workers, and members of my Romance Writers of America group. I like lots of input.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

MJ: I’d like to become what I consider a legitimate best-selling author. I’ve hit the list, but only for a couple of hours, so I don’t really consider that being a best-selling author, though some would.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

MJ: I was a synchronized swimmer when growing up. I competed at the Junior Olympic level, which was the highest level at the time. Since that time, it has become an Olympic event. I have a number of medals in a box high on a shelf in my bedroom closet.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

MJ: I’m just beginning my first round of edits on DAMAGE DONE, the Irish story I mentioned earlier. It is a little bit different than most as it opens with one story, and then jumps to seventeen years later. The first part of the book comes back to tie in at the end.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

MJ: Just that it has been a pleasure to be here. I enjoy The Reading Café and was thrilled to have the opportunity to talk about my work here today!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- cannelloni

Favorite Dessert- chocolate cake

Favorite TV Show- currently, Once Upon a Time. All time, Breaking Bad.

Last Movie You Saw- “Heaven is for Real,” but I really want to see that “The Other Woman” movie. It looks cute!

Favorite Musical Group/Song- Too hard! I’m going to go with Seether, “Fine Again.”

Dark or Milk Chocolate- both! In large quantities!

Secret Celebrity Crush- there is nothing secret about them, I love most of the boys from Once Upon a Time, especially the roguish Hook. And Matthew McFadyen, Mr. Darcy from “Pride and Prejudice.” Oh, and Sawyer, from Lost.

Last Vacation Destination- Panama City Beach, FL

Pet Peeve- just one? Captcha codes, motion sensors on sinks and paper towel holders, people that wait until the last second when lanes are merging and then expect to be let in. Man! That burns me!

TRC: Thank you MJ for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of ROCK ME, GENTLY. We wish you continued success and look forward to many more storylines.

giveaway

MJ Schiller is offering the following 3 ebooks (3 winners)

1 Winner-BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE

1 Winner-ABANDON ALL HOPE

1 Winner-ROCK ME, GENTLY

TRAPPED UNDER ICE (book 1) ebook is currently FREE :

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. LIKE MJ Schiller on Facebook for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway is open internationally.

7. Giveaway runs from June 26 to June 30 , 2014

Something Like Normal (Something Like Normal #1) by Monica James-Review,Interview & Giveaway

Posted on May 19, 2014 by Sandy

SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL (Something Like Normal #1) by Monica James-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Something Like Normal
Something Like Normal #1
by Monica James
Genre: New Adult, contemporary
Release Date: May 13, 2014

Something LIke Normal

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 13, 2014

Mia Lee has a secret…

A secret she’s kept hidden since she was eight years old, however, Mia will no longer allow that secret to define her.

An irrevocable decision has left Mia Lee a fugitive and on the run—a circumstance that should leave her weak and scared, yet Mia has never felt so alive.

Under the pseudonym of Paige Cassidy, Mia is ready to live the life she’s never had, and she’s determined not to allow her tainted past dictate her promising future.

Paige is on a Greyhound bus heading from L.A. to South Boston, Virginia, to start a new life. A life that includes finding her mother, who abandoned her at age three. But what she finds, is four people, who will change her life forever.

Yet no one can outrun their past…

Especially one filled with bitter memories, which refuse to remain hidden

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is the first instalment in Monica James’s contemporary, new adult series of the same name. The focus of the series is on nineteen year old Mia Lee (aka Paige Cassidy) and the horror that has been her life.

Told from first person (Mia/Paige) POV, the storyline premise follows Paige as she runs from her past. Landing in South Boston, Virginia with only a few dollars and a backpack with little more, Paige will discover that sometimes family has nothing to do with the blood in your veins but the people you meet along the way.Much of the back story is told through flashbacks and nightmares.

Monica James pulls the reader into an emotional storyline where a young woman had to make a choice –a choice that haunts her sleep but a choice that had to be made. Meeting Quinn and Tristan Berkeley, Hank the motel operator and Tabitha (her new BFF), Paige learns what it means to be family-a family of misfits who are there when the world begins to spiral out of control.

There is a slight love triangle formula developing between Paige and the Berkeley brothers which amped up my anxiety with an already emotional and heartbreaking storyline. Tristan and Quinn’s family history is just a step up from Mia’s horrific past and Paige (Mia) will find a kindred soul mate in Quinn.

The secondary characters (Tabitha, Quinn, Tristan, Hank) play a major role throughout the story and become one another’s sole source of comfort and support. The world building brings the abhorrent face of abuse, betrayal, neglect and addiction –front and center-in a storyline that will tug at your heart and your soul.

Monica James writes a seductive story about one woman finding solace and support from the unlikeliest of people and places. SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is a provocative, emotional, intense and passionate storyline; the back story is gritty, abrasive and startling; and the present is traumatic and profound. You will not walk away untouched.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview beige

TRC: Hi Monica and welcome to The Reading Cafe. Congratulations on the release of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL and the success of your I, Surrender series.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Monica James: Goodreads Twitter / Facebook

Monica James Monica: Well, I am a humbled girl from Australia, who is incredibly grateful to be doing an interview with someone halfway across the world. I studied Philosophy and Literature at University and I loved it. I loved reading the philosophies of Aristotle, Plato and Nietzsche because their writings are simply beautiful. So I guess in a way, these philosophers inspired me to follow my dream, and take a chance to start writing seriously.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Monica: Life inspired, and still inspires me to write. I never really had a moment where I was like, ‘Yes, I want to be a writer.’ I just loved being able to express myself onto paper, as writing came so naturally to me. It started out jotting down simple phrases, quotes, thoughts, and then it extended into poems and short stories. Then it just exploded and went from there. I love being able to tell a story, and share my vision with everyone who reads my work.

TRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Monica: I love hanging out with my pets. And of course, reading.

TRC: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is the first release in your latest contemporary, new adult series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Monica: Something like Normal is a manuscript I hold very close to my heart. This book was a very challenging, taxing project to write, but I loved every minute of it. I wanted to write a different story, and challenge myself as a writer, and also, challenge my readers. Some readers may find the context a little dark, but that’s what I love about this series. Every chapter challenges me, and also pushes me to write outside my comfort zone, which I love. The premise is simple: my characters just want to find their piece of normalcy in a not so normal world.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based in reality or a combination of reality and fiction?

Monica: Honestly, I had to do a lot of research for this book. I wanted it to be as accurate as possible, and also, I wanted it to be confronting. It is mainly fiction; however, the characters are loosely based on people I know.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Monica: There are 4 books in this series, and they all follow the same characters throughout each book. These characters have a lot of secrets, and I really wanted to ensure I didn’t rush anyone’s past, especially Mia’s and Quinn’s.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Monica: Heaps. This story involves certain situations and topics which I have never personally encountered before. I wanted to make the story as real, and as raw as possible. Everything that you read was researched, and double checked, to ensure that what you are reading is factual.

TRC: SURRENDERED-the final book in your I Surrender trilogy will be released in July 2014. Will you give us any hints or clues about the premise?

Monica: It was actually very sad writing, Surrendered. I have become very attached to these characters, and wrapping up their stories was hard. I did cry a few times LOL Hints- hmm, let’s just say Jasper White is gonna make you swoon!

TRC: Have you considered a spinoff or novella series when the trilogy is complete?

Monica: Yes, I have. If the fans want it, then I’ll see what I can do 😉

TRC: We have read where you have re-written the first two books –I Surrender and Surrender to Me-in your I Surrender series. Has the premise changed from the original storylines such that reading the new release will be confusing to previous readers?

Click HERE for our reviews of I, Surrender and Surrender to Me.

Monica: Not at all. When I say they are rewritten, this means the flow of the storyline has been rewritten. The actual plot itself has remained the same. A few scenes have been added, so think of these as bonus scenes.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an instalment with a major cliff hanger?

Monica: LOL I know many readers hate them, but I feel they are needed to keep the readers coming back for more. Personally, as a reader, the more powerful and devastating an ending, the more chance I have at remembering the story. I love eagerly awaiting the next book in a series I love, because it’s like Christmas morning when I get my hands on it!

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Monica: If only I had a say! It’s 100% the characters. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat down in front of my laptop with a clear vision in my head, and then by the end of it, it reads like a totally different story. Some characters are louder and more obnoxious than others LOL, but I do try and stay true to them, and even though their decisions are sometimes questioned by readers, there is a reason why they are doing it.

Monica: This is a really good question. There is only one rule I religiously follow when writing, and that is, write what you know. Your readers are intelligent, and they will know if you’re trying to write about something you’re not comfortable with. I am not talking about subject matter, because like I mentioned, Something like Normal was a project out of my comfort zone. I’m referring to writing style, words, flow etc…

An honest, raw piece of literature which showcases your talent, I believe, is what makes a successful story. If you want to write about something totally foreign to you, just make sure you have done your homework.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Monica: I usually take a breather for a few days. I watch movies, read, and listen to music, that kind of thing. The more pressure put on oneself, I believe, the worse it gets. Writing should be expressive, not structured and controlled.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Monica: I am a very private writer, and I actually only use one other person to bounce my ideas off, and that is my friend, and fellow author, Lisa Edward.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Monica: Well, I am honoured to be an Amazon bestselling author, so I guess the next step would be reaching for the stars.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Monica: I am terrified of Air Blown Inflatable Characters

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Monica: Book 2 of the Something like Normal series, and a standalone.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Monica: I wanted to give a shout out to my ever supportive, forever loyal readers- You guys mean everything to me. Without you, I wouldn’t be where I am now. It’s because of your enthusiasm and loyalty that I am able to do what I love, and for that, I will forever be grateful to each and every one of you. And the only way I can repay you, is to continue writing stories I hope you will love.

Thanks for this. It was fun x

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food Pizza

Favorite Dessert Pancakes

Favorite TV Show Dexter and Supernatural

Last Movie You Saw The Lego Movie

Favorite Musical Group 30 Seconds to Mars

Dark or Milk Chocolate Dark

Secret Celebrity Crush Animal (yes, the character from The Muppets)

Last Vacation Destination USA (I miss you guys ☹)

Pet Peeve Dog ears in books!

TRC: Thank you Monica for taking the time to answer our questions. It is always fun to meet the author. Congratulations on the release of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL and the upcoming release of SURRENDERED.

Giveaway beige

Monica James is offering an ecopy of SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL to one (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Giveaway is open to INTERNATIONAL.

6. Giveaway runs from May 19 to May 23, 2014, 2014

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on May 16, 2014 by Sandy

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Interview and Giveaway

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride
by Cathy MacRae
Release Date:
Genre: Highlander, historical, romance

The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE (Highlander’s Bride #2) by Cathy MacRae

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2014

Determined to keep the Macrory clan holdings out of the clutches of the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates, King Robert II sends his man, Lord Ranald Scott, to hold Scaurness Castle. There, Laird Macrory lies dying, awaiting word from his son who is missing on the battlefields of France. If the son is not found before the old laird dies, Ranald will take over as laird–and marry Laird Macrory’s headstrong daughter.

Lady Caitriona sees no reason she cannot rule the clan in her brother’s stead, and is bitterly disappointed with the king’s decision to send a man to oversee the castle and its people. Not only is Ranald Scott only distantly related to the Macrory clan, but he was her childhood nemesis. She has little trust or like for him.

Her disappointment turns to panic when the king’s plan is completely revealed and she realizes she must wed Ranald. Pirates, treachery, and a 4-year-old girl stand between her and Ranald’s chance at happiness. What will it take for them to learn to trust each other and find the love they both deserve?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the second instalment in Cathy MacRae’s Highlander historical romance series. This is Lord Ranald Scott and Lady Riona Macrory’s story. Following the death of Laird Macrory, King Robert sends Ranald to Scaurness Castle to secure and assume the position of Laird. To establish ownership, Ranald is ordered to marry Lady Macrory and is not surprised when she denies any claim of marriage. The two have a prior history that goes back a number of years.

The premise focuses on the building relationship between Ranald and Riona as well as defending the castle from would be claimants-a one time friend of the former Laird: and the head of the Laird’s guards. When treachery and treason is suspected Ranald must ensure his position of authority or lose control of the castle and the men.

The relationship between Ranald and Riona began as children but neither had seen one another in years. Their attraction to one another is immediate although both deny feelings or their emotions. But Riona hides a secret that she believes will push Ranald away and in doing so will discover that her past has come back to claim what he believes belongs to him. When Riona chooses her past over her present Ranald knows that the future he promised was never going to happen.

The world building continues with the inclusion of Laird Eaden Scott (Ranald’s brother) from the first storyline. With the backdrop of Scottish castles and the salt water ocean you can feel the moisture and dew on the misty shores. The secondary characters include family, friends and enemies all carefully placed who reveal bits and pieces about the history of the family and the guards.

Cathy MacRae pulls the reader into a romantic storyline of struggle, betrayal, heartbreak and love. The Highlander storylines are always a favorite genre for many romance readers and THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the perfect romance read for love in the afternoon.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview orange:black

TRC: Hi Cathy and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the recent release of THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE.

Cathy: Thank you so much! It’s great to be here today. The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride is just shy of its two month birthday.

Cathy MacRae TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Cathy: Twitter / Goodreads Website / Facebook

Cathy: Well, like other writers, I love to read and cannot remember a time when I didn’t have a book in my hand- two or three in my desk at school as a kid, books in my car (before ereaders) for downtime while kids were at one practice or another. When I decided to start writing Scottish historical romance, a fellow writer challenged me to enter a writing competition, and the genre has stuck with me. I love it! And, really, it’s not hard to appreciate men in kilts. **J I was fortunate enough to take a trip to Scotland two years ago and will definitely go again!

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Cathy: My local writing group was my first support group. **J My current critique group is awesome and of course, there are numerous authors in my genre whose stories I love.

TRC: THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the March 2014 and second release in your historical Highlander Brides series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Cathy: It is a stand alone book, but if you read the first one, you would recognize the hero in this book, Ranald, as the brother of the hero in The Highlander’s Accidental Bride. The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

In The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride, King Robert II has received an urgent request from Laird Macrory to send someone to help hold Scaurness Castle, a strategic site overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Both the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates would love to claim it for their own.*

The king sends Ranald and sets three mandates. First, secure the castle in the name of the king. Second, take over as laird if the old laird dies before his son can be found and returned from France’s battlefields. The third mandate hinges on the second. To strengthen his claim on the Macrory clan (he is distantly related), he must marry the old laird’s headstrong daughter. Unfortunately, Ranald remembers her as an annoying child he didn’t like very much. Their story revolves around their early dislike of each other as well as a few unexpected obstacles they must overcome in order for them to learn to trust and then love one another.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series? Can each of the books be read as a stand alone?

Cathy: I currently have two more in queue for the series, with a couple more possible. Each will be a stand alone, but of course it is fun to recognize characters as they weave in and out of each other’s stories.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, historical, logistics,background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Cathy: The logistics of the time period are always challenging. There is the basic clan feuding to build around, but I want to include some of the issues of the time. Who was king? What were his policies? Did he support the highland clans or intrigue to keep them fighting each other? What were other notable wars/treaties/upheavals going on at this time?

TRC: Do you believe that fictional historical storylines should adhere to the ‘real history’ of the time period in the book(s)?

Cathy: To a degree, yes. I’d be happy reading something that was not historically accurate as long as the author was clear about it from the beginning.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

Cathy: I like my cliff hangers inside the book. **J There is a lot to be said about enticing readers to eagerly anticipate the next installment, but I don’t know if I’d write that way or not. I’m happier with an emotionally satisfying ending.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Cathy: One of my favorite things about writing is I’m never quite sure how the story will progress. The characters definitely direct the story for me.

Cathy: I think a good writer must engage the reader’s empathy for the hero and heroine and keep them true to their character. If a writer changes the heroor heroine’s reaction to a situation (except for an expected character change as the story progresses), the story will lose its believability. Characters with real, understandable flaws are wonderful. I think books are better with a hero and heroine who are just as fallible in the book as people would be in real life. I want to believe, no matter what happens in a person’s life, there can be a HEA.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Cathy: Usually, when writer’s block is staring me in the face, I have written a character into an unbelievable situation. It might take some rereading of the story up to that point to see where it went wrong. Occasionally I just jump to another chapter and keep writing. I can usually backtrack and fix the ‘dead spot’ later.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Cathy: My DH loves to hear my plots and is great at helping me find information. He usually does the first edits on my chapters. I often bounce ideas with my critique group, too. They are a HUGE help!

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Cathy: In The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride, a 4-year-old named Gilda is introduced. My next book is her story- twelve years later, of course. It is called The Highlander’s Tempestuous Bride.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Cathy: I am entering the arena of self-publication and career as a full-time author. I’m not sure I have time for anything else, lol! But if I do, I would love to take another trip to Scotland.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Cathy: A few people know I worked as a tour guide at George Dickel Distillery for about a year recently. I absolutely loved the job! I met people from all over the world and learned a lot of amazing things, both about whisky and life in general.I suppose if I hadn’t moved, I’d still be there.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Cathy: Writing is such fun for me. I love interacting with readers, too. Readers can find me at my Website on Facebook or my author page at Cathy MacRae Author.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- shrimp

Favorite Dessert- anything chocolate or ice cream (preferably Ben & Jerry’s
cookie dough)

Favorite TV Show- NCIS

Last Movie You Saw– Robin Hood with Russell Crowe

Favorite Musical Group- The John Scofield Trio (funky jazz)

Dark or Milk Chocolate- Milk chocolate

Secret Celebrity Crush- George Clooney

Last Vacation Destination- Eureka Springs, AK

Pet Peeve- poor grammar

TRC: Thank you Cathy for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE. We
wish you all the best.

Cathy: Thank you for having me here today! I’m so glad to get a chance to chat with you!

Giveaway Black and Orange

Cathy is offering the following prize package at The Reading Cafe.

-one commenter will receive the coconut soap and bookmark
-one commenter will receive a signed copy of THE HIGHLANDER’S ACCIDENTAL BRIDE
Cathy MacRae prize

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page.

2. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter or Facebook, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. LIKE Cathy MacRae on Facebook for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway open to USA only

7. Giveaway runs from May 16 to May 21, 2014

Rock My World by Julie Shackman-Review and Interview with the Author

Posted on May 8, 2014 by Sandy

Rock My World by Julie Shackman-Review and Interview with the Author

Rock My World

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 14, 2014

Ruby Cameron is an ambitious reporter for a local paper where she is fed scraps of news, and lives with a man whose “idea of living dangerously is to leave the heating on when we pop out to the shops”. But after catching her squeaky clean boyfriend in flagrante delicto she ups sticks and moves into her own small home, only to discover the ghostly presence of a cheeky rock star who becomes her confidant as the dynamics of her small town, and her feelings about her dashing new boss, begin to throw up more questions than she can answer. Will Ruby discover who she really is, and perhaps more importantly, who she wants to be?

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: ROCK MY WORLD is a contemporary, paranormal, romance, suspense storyline focusing on twenty eight year old newspaper reporter Ruby Cameron and the ghost who resides in her new home. After she finds her boyfriend having sex with a younger woman, Ruby moves into a new housing development, built upon the grounds of a former theatre, where she is immediately assaulted by the familiar tones of 80s rock anthems. To Ruby’s surprise she is the only person who hears the music and with it will come the apparition of the long deceased Stevie V-front man and singer for the former Scottish rock group Legend who died close to twenty eight years earlier-on the very spot.

The storyline focuses on Ruby’s investigation into the death of Stevie V. The rocker has not been able to move on since his demise and pleads with Ruby to investigate what he believes was not an accident but a murder. As a reporter Ruby has more connections than the average person but what Ruby uncovers will shock everyone including herself. As if investigating Stevie’s death isn’t enough, Ruby will be introduced to a new reporter whose father owns the struggling paper and her attraction to Matt Jardine is immediate and unwelcome.

Julie Shackman writes an inviting storyline about one woman’s search for the truth but what she uncovers will change her life, as well. This is a story of suspense and mystery; betrayal and jealousy; losing and second chances. Our heroine Ruby will be given a second chance at love in the guise of a fellow reporter but what ensues is a game of push and pull.

The storyline is told from alternating first person (Ruby) and close third person POV. The writing style is simple and the backstory is revealed through investigation, interviews and reflection. A good portion of the storyline goes back and forth between present day and the past but not always in the same time period-the story spans over thirty years.

Julie Shackman references many of the songs, fads and happenings of the 1980s to give the storyline a familiar edge in reality. The secondary characters are an eclectic mix of family, friends and co-workers who add a little color and entertainment to the storyline.

ROCK MY WORLD is an entertaining and spirited story with a little bit of romance, a little bit of sex, a little bit of mystery and a little bit of suspense. If you like a mystery storyline with a little bit of romance woven throughout then ROCK MY WORLD will definitely entertain.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview

TRC: Hi Julie and welcome to The Reading Café.

Julie Shackman We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

FOLLOW Julie: Twitter/ Facebook / Blog/ Goodreads

Julie: I trained as a journalist but writing romance has always been a dream of mine. When I’ve not got my head in a book or drafting one, I write verses and captions for greetings card companies. Writing at home seems to be incredibly difficult for me – I usually require coffee, music and noise. I’m married with two sons and live in Scotland.

TRC: What or who influenced your foray into writing?

Julie: I remember reading novels by writers like Judith Krantz when I was about 13 and I thought “Wow!” The idea of sitting writing and using your ideas and your words to make readers laugh, cry and empathise with you just seemed wonderful to me. I’ve always been obsessed with writing and books from an
early age.

TRC: You once were employed as a writer for greeting cards. Please tell us the details 😉

Julie: I still write verses and captions for greetings card companies and really enjoy doing it! The idea came to me when I read about a writer in theStates who’d make a success of it and I wondered whether I should give it a try. I pulled together several different verses and started sending them off to greetings card companies. After a couple of weeks, two came back and said they wanted to purchase some of my work and that was it.

TRC: Did you have the opportunity to ‘see’ the greeting cards prior to writing the verses?

Julie: I do occasionally get sent the designs to work from. Other times, I’m provided with a description or design brief saying what they are looking for. A lot of the art work is gorgeous.

TRC: As a journalist were you able to travel the world? What do you miss most?

Julie: I didn’t travel the world no, but I did cover some very diverse stories and met some really interesting characters. I probably miss some of them the most!

TRC: ROCK MY WORLD is your February 2014 release. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Julie: Ruby Cameron is an ambitious reporter for a local paper where she is fed scraps of news, and lives with a man whose “idea of living dangerously is to leave the heating on when we pop out to the shops”. But after catching her squeaky clean boyfriend in flagrante delicto she ups sticks and movesinto her own small home, only to discover the ghostly presence of a cheeky rock star who becomes her confidant as the dynamics of her small town, and her feelings about her dashing new boss, begin to throw up more questions than she can answer. Will Ruby discover who she really is, and perhaps more importantly, who she wants to be?

TRC: Is this a standalone novel or do you have plans for a series?

Julie: “Rock My World” is a stand-alone novel. I don’t have any plans to make it into a series. I think Ruby, Stevie and Matt (my three main characters) would agree that their story has been told. I did love writing it though and got a bit emotional when I’d typed “The End.”

TRC: Are any of the characters or the storyline premise based in reality?

Julie: No, they’re not wholly based on people I’ve met. There’s elements there of people I know…!

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an instalment with a major cliff hanger?

Julie: I think writing like that is a great idea and really helps to hook readers. However, I think as a writer you have to follow your heart. It’s probably just a case of finding the type of writing style, story and genre that suits you and that you love and then just going with it.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Julie: There’s definitely a bit of both of these elements going on at times! Usually though, my characters seem to do their own thing and I try to give them freedom.

Julie: I often read “Write what you know” and “If you enjoy writing your novel, it comes through and the reader will enjoy it too.” So if you can put some of your own genuine feelings and emotions into your characters and into the story generally (whilst loving doing it!) I think you’ll hook the reader.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Julie: I’ll go out for a walk; read a book or listen to some music. Sometimes though, I’ll try to push through it and even if I seem to write a lot of rubbish, I’ll leave it and go back and try to improve it the next day.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Julie: I didn’t really find any difficulties writing “Rock My World.” I did quite a bit of research on the internet, just checking facts on 80s rock music and lifestyle/politics of the time. That brought back a few memories!

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Julie: I bounce ideas off my Husband and friends and family mainly. I can usually see on their faces what they make of my ideas!

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Julie: I have just finished writing my second novel (a rom-com) and am polishing that at the moment. I’m also pulling together research and ideas for my third novel (also a rom-com) which has a well-known historical figure as its main character.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Julie: I just want to keep writing romances that make people laugh and cry.

Secondly, like most writers, I would love for one of my books to be turned into a TV drama.

Lastly, I wouldn’t mind getting involved in writing a mini-series for TV.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Julie: I learnt Russian at secondary school and got an O Level in it.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Julie: Just to say thank you so much to The Reading Cafe for this great interview!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food – Anything Italian!

Favorite Dessert – Sticky Toffee Pudding

Favorite TV Show – Strictly Come Dancing and The Musketeers

Last Movie You Saw – The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug – I’m a huge
Richard Armitage fan and have been for a few years now.

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Milk Chocolate – preferably with nuts!

Secret Celebrity Crush – Richard Armitage (again!) I also think Bradley
Cooper is a honey.

Last Vacation Destination – Malta – It was beautiful.

Pet Peeve – I can’t stand it when people jump queues or don’t say please
and thank you. If they happen to do both, it sets my teeth on edge!

TRC: Thank you Julie for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of ROCK MY WORLD. We wish you all the best.

Releasing Me by Jewel E.Ann -Reviews, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on April 20, 2014 by Sandy

Releasing Me by Jewel. E.Ann-Reviews, Interview and Giveaway

Releasing Me
Holding You #2
by Jewel E. Ann
Release Date: April 18, 2014
Genre: Adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Releasing Me

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

RELEASING ME (Holding You #2) by Jewel E. Ann

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 18, 2014

A tragic accident. A hidden past. An unbreakable love.

Never goodbye …

I thought Addy stole my soul.

Her beauty blinded me.
Her heart called to me.
Her touch healed me.

She gave everything and asked for nothing. Then I broke her. The depths of her pain were veiled by the reflection of my own. I didn’t deserve her, but I wanted her––I needed her. In my darkest hell, I heard her voice. That’s when I knew …

Addy was my soul.

Deep breath … I am peaceful, I am strong.

Quinn was worth the risk.

He took away the numbness and gave me unfathomable pleasure. Every emotion felt magnified, every moment felt like the last.

My heart found purpose.
My body came to life.
My soul returned.

His weakness gave me strength, and his past held my future. He saved me by … releasing me.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: RELEASING ME is the second and final instalment in Jewel E Ann’s contemporary, adult romance Holding You duology and readers are in for an emotional ride. Releasing Me continues the story of Adler Brecken and Quinn Cohen. At the end of Holding You an accident left our couple fighting for survival. Release Me will reveal that words said in anger; actions meant to hurt; and betrayal of both the heart and the soul will break even the hardest of humans-but when someone is already broken, the cracks will weaken the spirit until there is nothing left on which to hold. Sometimes pushing too hard means losing everything and everyone that means anything in your life.

The storyline focuses on recovery, addiction and fighting for the one you love. Painful words, heartbreaking betrayal and, buried pasts find our couple in a hell of their own making. Hidden secrets will force Addy and Quinn into a battle for both their lives and their love but in the end, pain and sorrow may be all that is left at the end of the day.

Jewel E. Ann has written a story where one woman has suffered so many losses and heartbreaks in her life that one more seems inevitable and revealing. At times RELEASING ME is a difficult storyline with the amount of devastating and emotional pain that our heroine must endure. And when she finally puts her heart on the line she is pushed into the abyss by a man who is floundering in the knowledge that he did not really know the woman with whom he had fallen in love. His actions are unforgiveable; he is weakened by both physical and emotional pain; yet our heroine is willing to stand by and watch the disaster play out to its’ final demise.

RELEASING ME is a storyline with a little mystery, plenty of secrets, and a whole lot of emotional heartache. The secondary characters are pulled into the turbulent life of two people who love beyond the present but continue to hurt one another through their actions, their secrets and their hidden pasts but sometimes the past must remain in the past or the memories wound like daggers of the mind and the heart.

The relationship between Addy and Quinn is sexual, sensual, angry and seductive. There is betrayal of the heart; of the mind; and of the soul for two people so emotionally injured that they can’t see beyond the present-a lack of maturity fueled the pain and the ever present ghost in the room.

Jewel E Ann pulls the readers into a story where love and hatred straddle a infinite line; where betrayal and anger are the fuel for words meant to wound; and where the heart knows that there will never be anyone who can compare to the one who holds your life and your soul –for all time. Releasing Me is a story of love between two people who refused to give up and in the end realized that there was more of a connection to one another then anyone could ever have imagined.

Copy supplied by the author.

_______________

Holding You
Holding You #1
by Jewel E.Ann
Release Date: February 21, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic,romance

Holding You

Special Price .99cents for a limited time: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

About the book:

Deep breath … I am peaceful, I am strong.

Free-spirited Addy Brecken is Milwaukee’s most talented vegan chef and co-owner of Sage Leaf Café. She has a genius IQ, a padded savings account, an amazing view of Lake Michigan, and a heart that won’t stop beating.

An early April morning finds her drowning in the seductive fragrance of lilacs and the warmth of the morning sun when she’s nearly hit by a car in front of her café. The peaceful existence she’s desperately tried to maintain after the horrific loss of her family is suddenly shaken by the Range Rover driving, arrogant, sex-on-legs Quinn Cohen.

A successful, Latino businessman from New York, Quinn has a taste for the finer things in life. A typical playboy, he has the money, the houses, the cars, and the women. Quinn is everything Addy avoids. Where she lives simply and prefers to help the less fortunate, he has no problem spending an obscene amount of money on a briefcase. Their opposite personalities lend to several heated encounters, and Addy finds herself propositioning Quinn for the one thing she never imagined needing … sex.

Offering only her body, Addy tries to keep Quinn at a safe distance from her heart and a world away from her past. Their passion-filled connection makes Addy feel something unfamiliar, alive. But with passion comes more feelings: anger, jealousy, love. When Addy surrenders to the unimaginable and lets go of her past, she’s faced with the impossible … holding on to her future.

Deep breath … I am peaceful, I am strong.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HOLDING YOU is the first instalment in Jewel E. Ann’s adult, contemporary, erotic series by the same name. The storyline follows vegan chef Adler (Addy) Brecken and millionaire Quinn Cohen as they navigate the mine field that is their life.

Addy has a secret- a past mired in pain, sorrow and heartbreak and, one that she is reluctant to talk about or revisit. Quinn doesn’t do relationships-at least nothing longer than six weeks so embarking on an almost-friends with benefits kind of relationship suits both Addy and Quinn –for the moment. But, like all sexual relationship between two people both physically and emotionally attracted to one another the heart will fall before the mind has had a chance to catch up. And in this, Quinn will ensure that Addy’s knows he is not the man for her.

The reader is pulled into a heartbreaking storyline about two people afraid to commit to one another; afraid to tell the truth; afraid to allow their emotions to guide them through the fall-out of every revelation. This is a story where the heart is broken when the reality of the situation comes crashing home-after all-they agreed to friends with benefits –ONLY. Quinn never promised fidelity and Addy never promised to lose her heart.

Addy and Quinn’s relationship follows a love-hate path where one man is unable to commit and his actions speak to his betrayal. Addy is afraid to love again and with Quinn’s history, she knows that her choices are probably for the best. But falling in love is often out of our control. The sex scenes are plentiful; there is no holding back and nothing is off limits for Abby and Quinn.

Jewel E. Ann has written a heartbreaking story where two people who love one another are afraid to acknowledge the demons from their past, but the demons from Quinn’s past resurface at every occasion. Addy’s secrets weigh heavily on her mind and in her heart but the man with whom she is falling in love has never pushed for the truth until now. As Addy’s secrets begin to reveal themselves to Quinn, it may be too late when the biggest secret of all, comes crashing down.

HOLDING YOU is a story about an independent, strong and centered woman who knows what she wants and she wants Quinn Cohen-a man who has never wanted for anything in his life. If you like a storyline with betrayal and heartache; pain and sorrow; billionaire lifestyles of the rich and famous than Holding You is the perfect read.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

releasing me teaser 3

Interview white:black

Jewel E Ann TRC: Hi Jewel and welcome to The Reading Cafe. Congratulations on the release of HOLDING YOU and RELEASING ME.

Jewel: Thank you for having me!

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Jewel: Sure! I live in Iowa with my fabulous husband, 3 boys, and a dog.

TRC: HOLDING YOU is your February 2014 release focusing on Addy Brecken and Quinn Cohen. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Jewel: The premise behind Addy and Quinn’s journey is life is fragile, love is unexpected, and forgiveness comes from within.

TRC: You heroine Addy is the owner and chef at a vegan eatery. Are you a vegan? And if so, do you encounter ‘negativity’ as it pertains to the ‘special dietary’ concerns at private and public functions?

Jewel: Yes, I am a vegan or basically I try to eat a whole foods diet. I don’t obsess over the specifics of “veganism” for example, honey, leather goods, etc. I strive for living a life of compassion toward all life which includes not judging other people and their lifestyle choices. I find, like the Golden Rule, this compassion usually comes back. When it doesn’t, it’s not really my problem.

As for “negativity,” it’s pretty rare. I don’t make a point of drawing attention to myself and my “special dietary,” needs. I usually don’t show up hungry so it’s easy to find something to throw on my plate so the focus of the gathering stays social instead of 21 questions about my eating habits. If anything, most people are curious about a vegan diet since the health benefits of a plant-based diet have become more mainstream.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Jewel: Fortunately, not too many. Holding You is my first novel so I chose to write what I knew or topics that family and friends could be “experts” on. I wanted to focus on developing a writing style that felt natural and uniquely mine. Too much research might have hindered that process. Don’t get me wrong. There were a few challenges, such as the timeline. The series doesn’t take place over days or even months, it’s years and keeping the timeline accurate was sometimes overwhelming.

TRC: Are any of the characters in your storylines based in reality or a compilation of people and your imagination?

Jewel: Definitely a compilation of people and my imagination. If we look hard enough we can see reflections of ourselves in everyone else. I hope my characters are that way too.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters in this storyline, which models or actors best represents your ideal image?

Jewel: Ugh! You’re going to wish you asked me a different question. I’d have a terrible time casting Addy and Quinn. While it’s fun to look at Pinterest boards where fans have put faces and oh so hot bodies to my characters, nothing matches the physical descriptions, especially facial, in my head. However, because this is a popular question I will say Sienna Miller could pass for Addy and Marcos Pitombo would be an acceptable Quinn.

TRC: RELEASING ME (May 2014) is the second and final installment in the duology. Do you have any plans to continue the storyline with novellas or short stories to keep your readers up to date on the lives of Quinn and Addy? Or perhaps another duology concentrating on Jake? Mac and Evan?

Holding You Series

Jewel: No, I don’t have plans for Addy & Quinn. I love their story and it’s complete. I hope readers trust me to take them on new journeys and open their minds and their hearts to the unknown again.

As for Jake, my husband thinks Jake deserves “more.” I haven’t shut the door on him, but it would take a huge surge of requests for me to consider a literary resurrection of Jake.

Mac and Evan’s story feels complete too. It would be possible to do a novella on how they met pre-Holding You. I love Mac’s personality and I could write about her all day.

TRC: How do you keep the plot unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability?

Jewel: I try to keep readers in the moment. If I can fill the journey with lots of emotional peaks and valleys then what’s over the horizon doesn’t matter. As for believability, there seems to be a lot of wiggle room. Readers believe what they want to believe. I love the Edmond Wilson’s quote: “No two persons ever read the same book.”

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do youdirect the characters?

Jewel: A little of both. Initially, I direct the characters. Then, much like children, they take over and that in my mind is when the story gets really good!

Jewel: I can only speak for myself. But I have to completely immerse myself into each character. If I’m not 100% emotionally invested in my characters then I certainly can’t expect my readers to be. I haven’t reached my emotional target until I’m laughing out loud, or bawling my eyes out, or so turned on that I have to take a break from writing and proposition my husband for sex. I know I’m on to something when I tell my husband, “I’m so excited to see what happens next.” I know it’s weird, but I actually get excited about the ideas that are cultivating in my head but have not yet sprouted in my conscious mind.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Jewel: I let go. Whenever words start to feel forced I stop. Sometimes for a few hours sometimes a few weeks. The solution is not always the same either. Sometimes it’s yoga or walking the dog. Sometimes I binge on books and Netflix, like a mini-vacation. Then other times all it takes is the right song or playlist to ignite the emotions I need to feed my creative rhythm.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Jewel: My best friend, my sister, my mom, and my husband. They are great about it too. Most of the time they are more of a sounding board. But sometimes they see things I don’t, and they’re never offended if I don’t take their advice.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Jewel: Undeniably You – It’s a sexy, humorous, and unexpected love story with a tomboy turned sexy twenty-three-year-old art history graduate/housesitter, a talented, college football wide receiver turned doctor, one handsome and socially awkward veterinarian, and one crazy Weimaraner. In thirty days they find love, break hearts, shatter dreams and find their lives changed forever. It is a standalone book … no cliffhangers! The release date will be in August 2014.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
fresh guacamole and corn chips

Favorite Dessert
carrot cake

Favorite TV Show
How I Met Your Mother

Last Movie You Saw
Endless Love

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Dark

Secret Celebrity Crush
Stephen Amell

Last Vacation Destination
Colorado

Pet Peeve
Overusing plastic bags. Really, a bag for lipstick and candy bar?

TRC: Thank you Jewel for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulation on the release of HOLDING YOU and RELEASING ME.

Jewel: Thanks again for having me and taking a chance on my books!

Website: http://www.jeweleann.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjeweleann
Intagram: http://instagram.com/authorjeweleann
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JewelE_Ann
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7505427.Jewel_E_Ann
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jeweleannauthor/

Giveaway -black and white

EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY

Jewel E Ann has an exclusive giveaway at The Reading Cafe- a paper copy of HOLDING YOU and a paper copy of RELEASING ME (ebook if international) to ONE (a) lucky commenter.

Holding You Series

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Giveaway=> Paper copies available to US/Canada only: ebook open to international

6. The giveaway runs from April 20 to April 25, 2014

Rafflecopter Giveaway Black and White

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter.

-Signed paperback of both Holding You & Releasing Me
-$25 Amazon Gift Card
-$25 Gift Certificate to Allison’s Gourmet Desserts.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tag Archives: Author Interviews

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