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Shamus McTavis from Red Tulip by @_VictoriaAdams #RLFblog #contemporaryromance
Interview
with Shamus McTavisTell us about
yourself, please.Let’s see. I’m the only son of Brian and Leslie McTavis.
Sadly, when I was young both my parents died when their yacht floundered off
the coast of Indonesia. That left me in charge of the McTavis Foundation and
made me a rather wealthy man. My beautiful grandmother had a passion for
flowers and the McTavis Conservancy is still attached to the mansion and is
thriving. I can sense my grandparent’s and parent’s spirits there when I wander
about the conservancy.Authors call what you
want but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?I would say, what I thought “the conflict” was was love.
Everyone I loved died and there was a time, in those over dramatic teenage
years, when I thought I was cursed. I didn’t want to get near anyone because I
couldn’t stand the pain of having them die. As I matured, I resolved that issue,
but then found the problem of being wealthy was people pretended to be your
friend or love you. They wanted to be close to the money not me.I didn’t date much and led the life of almost a recluse
until that day when I was walking Reginald in the park and spotted Darcy.What inner doubt
causes you the most difficulty?Am I worth it? I didn’t earn my millions; I inherited them.
Every day I wonder if I am worthy of the position as Chairman and do I deserve
this entitled lifestyle.Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.Darcy O’Calahan. A beauty as rare as some of the flowers in
the conservancy. She grew up in a small mid-western town, where she worked her
way through high school and college doing the flower beds for her neighbours
and the local municipal office. She once told me this hilarious story – which
didn’t make it into the book – about the summer she was covered with a poison
ivy rash. Makes me itchy just thinking about it.Let’s be honest, I’m rich and that makes me a target for
single women. But Darcy didn’t chase me down. I spotted her. Actually, I let
Reginald off his leash and he smashed into her knocking her down.What is your family
like?I have no family. I am an only child and my parents died in
a yachting accident and my grandparents have long passed on. It’s just me. I’ve
been alone since my parent’s death. Darcy is the first person I have let into
my world and my life.Why are you happy with
the way your story ended?Happy is not even close to how I feel. I found love. True
love. Darcy may be awed by my wealth, which is completely understandable. She’s
working at a low paying job and came from a middle class background. I grew up
in wealth and privilege and live in a mansion that could house a small city’s
population, but that has nothing to do with her love for me. If I was
struggling as hard as Darcy was, she would still love me.About the Writer
Hi, I’m Victoria Adams. I live in
Ontario, Canada with my husband and pets. Daughter’s grown up and is now teaching. I like to
garden, cook and study Raqs Sharqi (Egyptian belly dance). In the
summer, cars slow down when they pass my front yard and the passengers gaze at
my flower beds. Friends love to be invited over for supper as the meal is going
to be good, good for you and nowhere near low-calorie! No dieting allowed at
dinner parties. As to belly dancing, find a class and try it. It’s a blast! Age
and weight don’t matter. There are many plus size ladies and one 74 yr old
grandmother in one of my classes.I’ve been writing since I was
little. Being an only child, long car rides were filled with making up stories
in my head about the people I saw out the car window. When my daughter
was younger, I made up stories that she suggested. I’d say – Once upon a time
there was a…. She’d shout an answer – chicken! And the story went from there.
Great creativity exercise as it turns out. Now, my writing style has taken a split to
contemporary romance for adults and contemporary romance for new adults.What was your biggest
challenge in writing this book?The chapter ending hooks.
This was not a conventionally written book. It’s a compilation of flash
fiction episodes that were woven together to make a book. Each episode needed a
chapter ending hook to catch the reader and make them “turn the page”.Why did you choose
this character for the interview today?The entire story, Red Tulip, is written from Darcy’s point
of view. I thought it only fair that Shamus be allowed a moment to express
himself.Are any sequels
planned for this book?Red Tulip is the first book in a planned series called
Romantic Flashes. I belong to a flash fiction group and Red Tulip is the result
of weekly episodes written based on prompts and the whole thing tied into a
story. I have another story written, waiting to be edited, plus I’m working on
a seasonal collection of stories.What genre would you
like to write that you haven’t tried yet?Mystery! Didn’t even have to think about that answer. I
adore old English mysteries – Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers. I have no idea how to write one without all
the clues being obvious.Why should readers
who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?Red Tulip is short and very unique. It was written in the
style that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle presented his first book – The Hound of the
Baskervilles. Doyle wrote weekly
episodes of the story that were published in a magazine. Being the 21st
century, Red Tulip appeared weekly on my blog. It was a challenge to write
having to incorporate the weekly prompts into the story. For instance, when
December rolled around, of course all the prompts were Christmas oriented. Red
Tulip takes place in late spring. A challenge which I accepted and wrote it
into the story.Is there anything
you’d like to say to your readers?I love hearing from people who read my books. I don’t mean
reviews. I love getting FB messages or tweets. I will respond.About the Book
Title Red TulipGenre contemporary romanceAuthor Victoria AdamsBook heat level (based on movie ratings): GDarcy O’Calahann, a junior gardener from a small mid-western
town, is trying to make her way in the big city.Shamus McTavis is a wealthy bachelor with a mysterious family
past.Are Darcy’s eyes playing tricks on her? Is she losing her mind?
Or is there really a Red Tulip tying her and Shamus together?Buy This Book
Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/dp/B012EQECQABarnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/red-tulip-victoria-adams/1122370580?ean=2940152046687&quickview=trueKobo – https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/red-tulipSmashwords – https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/561587Author Social Media
Website – http://victoriaadamsroroman.wix.com/romance-authorBlog – Pages of Romance – http://victoriaadams.blogspot.comTwitter – http://twitter.com/_VictoriaAdamsFacebook – Books
by Victoria Adams – http://www.facebook.com/CirclesTrilogy?ref=hlAmazon Author Page – http://www.amazon.com/Victoria-Adams/e/B007DVKQVC/ -
Avery Fox from The Duke’s Daughter by @sashacottman #RLFblog #historicalromance
Character Interview with Avery Fox
This interview is designed for your hero or heroine to tell
readers about himself or herself. Answer the questions as if the character were
talking.Tell us about
yourself, please.‘My name is Avery Fox, I am in my late twenties, but
considering I lied about my age to join the army as a young lad you will have
to forgive me if I don’t reveal my exact age.’What inner doubt
causes you the most difficulty?‘It would take a special woman to want to love me. I don’t
know that such a woman even exists. Having never known love myself, I am not certain
I am capable of feeling such an emotion.’In the story world
your author created, explain what it is you fear most and why.‘I fear that the world will discover I am a man without
honor, that I am no war hero. I took a life and personally gained from it.’Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.‘Beautiful, kind but unattainable. She is a duke’s daughter
and I just happen to have suddenly found myself in line for an earldom. There
can never be a future for the two of us together.’What is your family
like?‘I don’t have one, though I do envy those who have a loving
family. It is not something I have ever known.’What special skills
do you rely on?‘Expert marksman. Former army sniper. I am also a proficient
sketch artist and painter. There was a lot of downtime in the army so you have
to find something to amuse yourself.’If someone from your
past showed up, who would you NOT want it to be, and why?My older brother Thaxter, he made my life a living nightmare
as a child, which is why I ran away from home at such a young age. Fortunately,
there is little chance of ever meeting him again.About the Writer
Sasha Cottman’s debut novel was
published in 2013. Letter from a Rake, was a Romantic Book of the Year finalist
in 2014 and won the Book Junkies Choice Award in 2014.Her books are centred on the theme
of love, honour and family. Her current book series, The Duke of Strathmore,
covers the story of the love lives of a group of siblings and their cousins.Sasha’s second novel An Unsuitable
Match, was a four time ARRA finalist in 2015. The third book in the Duke of
Strathmore series, The Duke’s Daughter, was released in August 2015.Sasha divides her time between the
city of Melbourne, Australia and her family beach retreat at Torquay. She and
her family have discovered all the places the family cat disappears to whenever
it realises they are about to head home on a Sunday night.Before accidently enrolling in a
course for romance writers a number of years ago, she had always had a love of
history. While her writing career may appear at odds with her professional
career as a finance executive, it means she can spot a poorly written company
board report at twenty feet.A self-confessed ‘hopeless’ cook,
she writes a blog, In the Regency Kitchen, where she recreates recipes from the
Regency/Georgian era. Her family have so far managed to survive being the test
subjects of her culinary efforts.The little time she has left during
the week and weekends is spent trying to beat her husband at Fitbit challenges
and trying to find where the pair to that sock really went.What was your biggest
challenge in writing this book?Finding time with a full time career is always a challenge.
This book actually wrote much of itself (I know that sounds odd, but I am a
plotter and this book had less planning than any of my other books).Why did you choose
this character for the interview today?Avery Fox was a character that demanded he be written. I
loved exploring what it must be like to live in a world where no one has ever
loved you and then meet someone capable of unconditional acceptance and love.Are any sequels
planned for this book?This is book 3 in my Duke of Strathmore series. I am
currently writing book 4.What genre(s) would
you like to write that you haven’t tried yet?Fantasy fiction with all its world building would be
brilliant.What would your
readers be surprised to learn about you?I spend my days working with facts and numbers while
managing 40 staff of a listed company before going home to write about the
lives and loves of imaginary people who live in England 200 years in the past.Why should readers
who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?If you want a happily ever after story, a laugh and the
warmth of reading about characters and the family who love them, then my books
are for you.About the Book
Title The Duke’s DaughterGenre Historical RomanceAuthor Sasha CottmanBook heat level (based on movie ratings): PG13When handsome army officer Avery Fox unexpectedly inherits
a fortune, he instantly becomes one of the season’s most eligible bachelors.
More accustomed to the battlefield, he has no patience with the naive
debutantes who fill the ballrooms of London.Honest and impetuous Lady Lucy Radley is a breath of fresh
air, guiding him through the season and helping him to avoid any traps. So when
Avery is left with little option but to marry Lucy, he can’t help but feel he’s
been manipulated. Nor can he shake the feeling that a duke’s daughter should be
out of his reach.From the wildly beautiful Scottish Highlands to the
elegant soirees of Paris, Avery and Lucy go on a journey that is full of
surprises for them both. But will their feelings for each other be strong
enough to overcome the circumstances of their marriage and survive the ghosts
of Avery’s past?Buy This Book
Publisher Destiny Romance. Penguin/Random HouseAmazon http://www.amazon.com/Dukes-Daughter-Sasha-Cottman-ebook/dp/B012Z6MYFA/
Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/the-duke-s-daughteriTunes https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/the-dukes-daughter/id1024399490?mt=11GooglePlay https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Sasha_Cottman_The_Duke_s_Daughter?id=Zq9FCgAAQBAJ&hl=enAuthor Social Media
Website http://www.sashacottman.comPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/sashacottman/Amazon Author Page http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00DH2ACPG -
Zi Trace from Tracing the Line by @allyabishop #RLFblog #romance
Interview with Zi TraceThis interview is designed for your hero or heroine to tell readers
about himself or herself. Answer the questions as if the character were
talking.Tell us about yourself,
please.Hello. My name is Zi Trace, and I own and manage White Peony Lingerie
and Sensual Pleasures, and I have two sisters, Lux and Blue. Our names are a
long story, if you’re wondering, but suffice it to say, our mother was, um,
creative.I’ve been divorced for two years, and, honestly, I’m just not up for
dating. I’ve tried…well, I’ve surfed a few dating websites at the behest of Lux
(she may have threatened to tie me down to the couch and make me if I didn’t do
it of my own volition, but I’m just not in the mood. It’s not that I don’t like
men—or sex, for that matter—but I’m done, honestly. My husband, er, my ex, I
mean, did me in. And now I’m not sure I can go through all of that again.Authors call what you want
but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?I try to share who I am…with everyone. But it’s…complicated. I didn’t
grow up like other people, and now, when things start to go sideways, I
struggle with the part of me that people will judge, you know? And even when I
want to trust someone, when I want to give them the benefit of my trust…I can’t
quite let go of the fear that they are going to let me down.What can you not do (but
need to do) during this story?Oy, that’s a long list—do we have more than one page for this
interview? :) Let’s see, I struggle letting go of my anger at Lux, I’m trying
hard to understand Blue, but she baffles me. What else…? I demand too much from
Kai Isaac when he tries to be there, and when I can’t stop my emotions from
overwhelming me, I risk everything. And to be honest…sometimes being alone is
easier, you know? You don’t have to clean up after others or worry that someone
doesn’t have your back. But I hate that I feel that way…and I want to stop
feeling so alone when I don’t have to be. I’m not sure how to get that trust
back though.What inner doubt causes
you the most difficulty?That I’ll end up alone. And that I’m not as desirable as I try to
believe I am. I’ve done a lot of self work over the last few years, and I’m
over a lot of the BS society tells us is required for beauty. But I’m still
nervous. I’ve lost weight, and the loose skin that comes with that…it’s never
quite the same, is it? I’ve got big hips, I’m very tall—nearly six foot—and
that leaves me feeling a bit like a giant around my sisters. So when you spend
all day helping women believe that they are gorgeous and sexy, you want someone
to do the same for you.And Kai…yeah. He does that. But he’s…I hate to say it’s complicated
again, but it is! He’s everything I’ve looked for, but he’s involved in a
career that doesn’t resonate with what I believe. I’ll just leave it at that.Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.Oy. Um, wow. So, Kai Isaac. He’s a filmmaker, and we meet when Lux
cons me into showing up at a filming for an advertising video. I had no idea
what was going to happen, and let’s just say…my issue with dating? Yeah. Kai
blew that right out of the water.He’s over 6’6”, with a fantastic body, and these mesmerizing
gold/green eyes that change based on his mood and thoughts. I…yeah, enough
about that. He’s patient, kind, open, and always there. He’s as passionate
about his career as I am about mine, and if he has a flaw—and really, who
doesn’t?—it’s that he has to think through emotional decisions. He’ll never
just answer. And usually, I love that about him. He doesn’t make foolish
choices based on the moment…but some days…I don’t handle that very well. That
probably says a lot more about me than it does him, doesn’t it? :sigh:Oh God, the man can cook, too! He’s amazing in the kitchen…and the
bedroom. ;)What would that person say
about you?Kai would insist that I’m hot, incredible at everything I do, and that
I’m damned close to perfect. (Don’t tell him otherwise! ;) )What is your family like?My older sister Lux is a former Dominatrix, now online dating maven in
the process of expanding her empire. If there’s a BDSM lover in need of a
mate(s), she’s got you covered. And dear God, you should see her boyfriend. Red
hair, built, horse trainer/underwear model with a thick Scottish accent? Even I
did a double-take when I met Fin MacKenzie.Blue—she’s the youngest—is the wild child. Hard to believe given Lux’s
intro, eh? Blue had it the hardest growing up, and I’m not sure why. She was
adorable—tiny with carroty ringlets and a teeny body—she looked like a doll.But she was always treated differently by those who took care of us,
and when it was just Lux and I raising her (practically), I don’t think we were
enough. Not when we were just kids ourselves.She’s lovely—long red hair, petite, with a streak of fire that never
quits. Well, not usually. But something broke in Blue a long time ago, and I’m
not sure anyone can fix it. I’m here for her—I love her dearly. But until she
figures out the demons that drive her, she’ll always have those shadows behind
her eyes.What special skills do you
rely on?I can usually talk to anyone. That’s helped me in business. Of course,
that’s all useless when Kai shows up and turns me into a blushing
sixteen-year-old. That man…If someone from your past
showed up, who would you NOT want it to be, and why?My mother. She formed our childhoods with mental illness and neglect,
and if there’s one person I struggle with categorizing in my life, it’s a
mother who was as sick herself as she made my little sister. I try to forgive
and move on, to love who she tried to be in spite of her actions, but when I
see Blue’s brokenness and Lux’s bitterness, it’s not as easy as it sounds.
Still…I try. That counts, right?Why are you happy (or not
happy) with the way your story ended?No cheating! You have to read to find out…but this is a romance,
right? :)About the WriterWhen you do something effortlessly and people commend
you continuously, you have found your gift.That’s what I tell people all the time. And it’s true.I get story. I always have. I started writing when I was
eight on a Smith Corona (the electronic kind — I’m not THAT old). I wrote
stories in every spiral notebook I had. Eventually, I graduated to a Mac (yes,
I’m one of THOSE people). I imagined new worlds, emotional conflicts, and HEAs
while I waited at stoplights or wandered the grocery store. But here’s the
thing: I didn’t just dream it up and write it down — I critiqued what I read. I
knew when ideas were good, and when they stunk. I ran writing groups, judged
creative contests, and eventually got two graduate degrees in writing. That’s
right: I love it that much.So here I am, years later, writing kickass heroines and
devastating good guys, along with some mystery and vampires thrown in (I
promise: THEY’RE COMING). And what’s really cool? I do what I love. Wanna write
a success story for your life: I promise you, that’s it. Do what you love. And
hopefully, you can make a living at it too. That’s the golden ticket, Charlie.And chocolate doesn’t hurt, either…What
was your biggest challenge in writing this book?The Without a Trace series started as a
co-writing deal that fell through. So when I wrote the second book, I was still
fleshing out the ideas that were never fully my own—I’d been responsible to
another author to make sure the ideas were shared.Zi’s book, Without a Trace (the sister’s
last names are all “Trace”), was my first real foray into what I wanted my
romance series to entail. So in that sense, it was a freeing feeling to be able
to write whatever I wanted! But I also knew I wanted this story to have impact
for those who have experienced abusive childhoods. Part of the reason Lux from Inside
the Lines fell out of touch with Zi and Blue is due to the issues in their
family. Sometimes, we try to simplify those things so we don’t have to get into
the gritty details, but I didn’t want to be dishonest.Many of us have dealt with painful backgrounds,
and I wanted their story to reflect what is possible when you are able to still
believe you are worthy, and still believe that love is possible, even when
we’re all a bit broken. I hope I was able to do that.Why
did you choose this character for the interview today?Zi Trace is a force to be reckoned with,
especially because she never gives up. She fights for what she wants, even
though she’s the most nurturing of the three. Zi keeps going. She’s also a real
woman with the realities of weight loss on the body, the pain of a failed
relationship and pregnancy, and the stains left behind by decisions she never
had a choice in. She’s the one everything happened “around,” but rarely to. And
she was the caretaker of Blue when Lux left, which has its own challenges.I debated writing Kai’s point of view, but
really…he’s so besotted with Zi, what else can he say? ;)When
writing the book, what did you discover about this character that surprised
you?How strong we are when the cards are down. Zi
risks everything to save herself yet again, and when she’s wrong, she owns it.
That’s one of the reasons I loved writing her—she embraces her truth, even when
it’s not comfortable.She’s also a bit more of a prude than she
realized, so when Kai wants to try some, um, more open-minded sexual
experiences, she’s surprised by her reaction. I daresay many of us feel that
way! And it was fun to see a lingerie store owner—who has a backroom full of
sexual toys for women—explore her own prejudices and discover the broader nuances
of her sexuality.Are
any sequels planned for this book?Oh, this is book three! There’s a fourth book
that will be released in October, and that will finish the Trace sisters’
stories—Blue’s book. But there’s a book for Noah Storm that I”m working on (for
those who are already fans—yes, Noah’s book is coming, I promise), plus I have
a spin-off idea I’m working on utilizing some of the characters we’ve already
met. So there’s much more to come in this romance world!What
genre(s) would you like to write that you haven’t tried yet?I’m working on a paranormal romance as well, and
I love mysteries. I have an idea for a romantic suspense novel as well, so…What
would your readers be surprised to learn about you?1. I never ever thought I’d write romance. My
background is in literary writing, and I’ve worked in the publishing field and
edited literary works for years now. But when an opportunity arose to write
steamy romance, I couldn’t resist the challenge. And I’ve had a blast.2. I’ll write pretty much anywhere, but many
know I’m also a professional editor and author coach. I stand 90% of the day at
a standing desk! I even have a small “elliptical” machine that fits underneath,
and I pull that out when I’m in conferences or meetings and get in my workout!
:DWhy
should readers who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a
try?Oo, good question! Let’s see.1. I am passionate about art, exploring our
world and helping us find solutions, comfort, and/or challenges to help us live
bolder and with more love and acceptance of others. I’m not shy about tackling
tough subjects.2. You get to meet Lux and Fin, Ella and Ian,
Noah and Tag (he’s a rescued pit bull with a heart of gold), and learn a bit
more about Blue who, while troubled, will surprise you when this saga is done.3. Who doesn’t love a sexy read?! I work hard to
make sure my sex scenes are unique, plot-focused, and tasteful. They might be a
little kinky (or a lot!), but they are always done with respect to the
characters’ agency. There’s nothing wrong with a little D/s play, as long as
everyone wants it, amiright? ;DPlus, the prequel Crossing the Lines is
free right now. So if you aren’t sure, start with that one and see if enjoy my
style.Is
there anything you’d like to say to your readers?Thank YOU for loving my books. Without your
feedback, I wouldn’t be brainstorming even more ideas and stories for these
characters. I’m honored that you took a chance on a new author, and I hope I
continue to give you a reason to keep coming back for more. <3 YOU ROCK!About the BookTitle Tracing
the LineGenre Erotic romanceAuthor Ally BishopBook heat level (based on movie ratings): RThey say love doesn’t hurt.But it’s a lie. I promise you, love someone long enough,
and they’ll destroy your soul.I’ve spent my life taking care of everyone else: my
family, my ex-husband, my friends. Deep down, I know I should focus on myself,
but how can I when I’ve got one sister about to implode while the other battles
her own guilt?The minute I met Kai Isaac, I should’ve run in the
opposite direction. His business isn’t one I want any part of, and I’ve got way
too much drama in my life already.But his kiss…those eyes…the raging inferno he
creates when he touches me…I can’t stay away. Life’s reeling out of control,
and he’s my only refuge from the storm.My sister Lux says trusting someone means not knowing
everything about them and being okay with it…but what if not knowing the
truth ruins everything?Buy This BookBarnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1122491159?ean=2940151088930Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013NRW9G4Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/567676Author Social MediaWebsite http://allybishop.comBlog http://allybishop.comTwitter http://twitter.com/allyabishopFacebook http://facebook.com/allyabishopPinterest http://pinterest.com/upgradestoryShelfari http://bit.ly/TracingshelfAmazon Author Page http://bit.ly/aabishop -
Prince Francesco from Favola by @DenyseBridger #RLFblog #fairytale
Interview with Francesco
This interview is designed for your hero or heroine to tell
readers about himself or herself.Tell us about
yourself, please.I am the Crown Prince of La
Città Natale di Alba, The Birthplace of Dawn. My parents have decided that
it is time for me to marry and produce heirs, and continue my grooming to rule
our kingdom. The problem being, the endless parade of potential brides has left
me feeling suffocated and less than interested in my destined role as ruler.Authors call what you
want but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?When I first spotted my beloved, she was in a small village,
and I was directed to the La Locanda di
Pericoli Nascosti, (The Inn of Hidden Dangers), an Inn owned by her mother,
the stunning Bella Venezia. I didn’t realize that Bella was a jealous woman who
hated any other as beautiful as she is. She kept her own daughter imprisoned in
a tower, out of sight, and out of reach of any man who desired her. And I desired
her more than any other woman I have ever known or seen. I was determined to
make her my queen, but first had to find a way to reach her.What inner doubt
causes you the most difficulty?Fear that I will not be strong enough to do what is asked of
me, to rule my people as they deserve. To keep the love of my fair Caparicia.In the story world
your author created, explain what it is you fear most and why.Bella told me her daughter was dead, that she arranged this
still fills me with rage. No amount of threatening or anger could undo what she
had wrought, until the arrival of my brother, and a witch who was willing to
help…. though the price she would ultimately ask was a high one.Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.Capricia, the fair and innocent girl who stole my heart, and
my ability to think about any other. She is kind, gentle, beautiful, and
strong, all a man could desire in a queen for his people.What is your family
like?My brother, Matteo, is my best friend. He would have made a
fine king, but he was not interested in the burdens of ruling. Ironically, the
burden he did choose to carry is one much heavier than ruling our kingdom has
ever been. I miss him, and curse his Fate each dawn.Why are you happy (or
not happy) with the way your story ended?I am happy with my story because my queen is at my side, and
she is the joy in my life. What I am not happy with is the fate of my brother,
but I have no given up hope that one day his burden will be lifted and he will
find his way back to us.About the Writer
Canadian born and
bred, and a lifelong dreamer, I began writing at an early age and can’t recall
a time when I wasn’t creating in some artistic form. My life has had several
on-going love affairs that shape much of what I write. In the past half
dozen years, I’ve released books in all lengths and genres, and it’s something
I hope to continue to do for many more years. A visit to my websites will show
the diversity of what is currently available, as well as other surprises and
extras!What was your biggest
challenge in writing this book?The biggest challenges with this book were to do the
original fairytale justice, keep the sequence, but also to add some touches of
my own to the existing storyline. To do that meant writing succinctly, and not
allowing the story to expand into wordiness that would run it off on tangents
not relevant to the main story. I hope it worked!Why did you choose
this character for the interview today?Today is release day for this book, but apart from that, I
love Francesco and his brother Matteo, they are regal and formidable, and
passionate.Are any sequels
planned for this book?My publisher has suggested a sequel, and I am toying with
the idea of telling Matteo’s story, since his nobility is beyond question and
there is a very intriguing story there waiting to be told.What would your
readers be surprised to learn about you?That I am exceedingly shy, and probably that this is one of
the very few books I have published new in over two years as I’ve worked at
rediscovering my passion for writing and telling stories.Why should readers
who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?If you like traditional fairytales with a hint of sexy
sensuality, this is a story that has those elements and is basically a short,
fun read that I hope makes everyone smile at the end of it.Is there anything
you’d like to say to your readers?Thank you – always – for your continued support and
enthusiasm for the worlds I love to explore and create. I hope they bring you a
small amount of joy because that is where the real success of our work lives.About the Book
Title: FavolaGenre: Sensual romanceAuthor: Denysé BridgerBook heat level (based on movie ratings): PG13In the town of Favola, a prince and a lovely girl imprisoned
by her mother’s jealousy find passion and love… but will it be enough to
outsmart the machinations and fury that their devotion inspires in the
beautiful Bella Venezia? An Italian fairytale is re-told for an adult
audience….Buy This Book
Publisher: www.eirelanderpublishing.comAuthor Social Media
Blog www.fantasypages.ca
and www.boundbypassion.caTwitter http://twitter.com/DenyseBridgerFacebook www.facebook.com/Romance.and.FantasyPinterest www.pinterest.com/DenyseBridgerAmazon Author Page www.amazon.com/author/denysebridger -
Becky from A Baron for Becky @JudeKnightBooks #Historical #RLFblog
Interview with Becky Winstanley
Tell us about
yourself, please.Which
self? Mrs Rebecca Winstanley is a respectable widow, living with her daughter
in a modest apartment in a select part of London. Mrs Rose Darling lives a few
streets away, in an elegant townhouse where she entertains the Marquis of
Aldridge at his pleasure.I
am both and neither—I act a part, always.Authors call what you
want but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?I
dream of a respectable life, the life stolen from me when I was just 15. No. It
is more than a dream, it is a plan. I plan to leave London, to set up somewhere
I am not known and to raise my daughter to a better life than the one I have
known.I
dream of love. Not the love I have for Aldridge, my protector. I am fond of
Aldridge, but I know he will never be mine. I dream of a man who will be loyal
and true; someone who will see the real me, and love me anyway. Ridiculous and
impossible, but there you are.What inner doubt
causes you the most difficulty?I
doubt that anyone would love me, or even like me, if they saw more than the
parts I act. Indeed, how could they? Inside, I am still the broken child,
mourning the loss of my innocence and hiding from the horror my life became. I
would not want even Sarah to see that person. How could she love me when I do
not love myself?In the story world
your author created, explain what it is you fear most and why.I
fear that my past will haunt me forever, that it will surface at the worst
possible time to destroy my daughter’s chance of escape to a respectable life.
I must keep my secret; I must keep her safe.Sarah
is only nine, but—despite our care—she is already suspicious of Aldridge’s
place in my life. “Why do the other girls have a Papa,” she asked me last week,
“when all I have is uncles?” I did not know what to say. I fear she will hate
me if she ever knows the truth—but not as much as I fear that the truth will
doom her to the life I have led.Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.Sarah
makes living worthwhile. I am fond of Aldridge. He is a kind and generous man,
and he has given me a life of ease and luxury I never imagined. But he is my
protector, not my love. I forgot that in the early days of our liaison. Almost,
I gave him my heart. Such feelings are foolish between a courtesan and the man
who keeps her. One day, he will marry one of the debutantes who clutter
London’s Season, and breed fine children with pure bloodlines on both sides.
And I will retire to the country and be a widow, and grow roses.What would that
person say about you?I
expect he would say I am beautiful. It seems to be the characteristic that men
notice first and comment on most often. He would also say, I think, that he
enjoys my company. He returns to me between his other affairs. Indeed, he
spends several nights a week with me. He likes to converse, even to
debate—politics, literature, history, business. He is very well read, and he
enjoys a good argument, and even concedes defeat if I manage to convince him of
my facts.If someone from your
past showed up, who would you NOT want it to be, and why?Ah.
Now that is a long, long list. I would not want to meet any of my former
clients or protectors. Fortunately, they live in the South-West, and I do not
go there. Only the last was of any social consequence. Perringworth, his name
was, and he is dead these two years.If you could plan a
happy ending, what would it be?I
have told you my happy ending. Safety for Sarah. Not enough? Well then, a man
who loves us both. A man who loves Sarah as a daughter and who loves me—the
real me, the hidden me—as his respected and treasured wife. I know it cannot
be, however, and will be content with the life I plan. I cannot see how my
author could give me a better one.About the Writer
Jude Knight writes strong determined
heroines, heroes who can appreciate a clever capable woman, villains you’ll
love to loathe, and all with a leavening of humour.Jude Knight is the pen name of Judy Knighton.
After a career in commercial writing, editing, and publishing, Jude is
returning to her first love, fiction. Her novella, Candle’s Christmas Chair,
was released in December 2014, and is in the top ten on several Amazon
bestseller lists in the US and UK. Her first novel Farewell to Kindness, was
released on 1 April, and is first in a series: The Golden Redepennings. .What was your biggest
challenge in writing this book?This
book is about three flawed characters, all of whom act in ways that are morally
reprehensible. My challenge was to make them sympathetic—to give the reader
cause to identify with them and want them to succeed. I wrote, tested with beta
readers, rewrote, and retested. I agonised over showing their motivations, and
demonstrating their strengths as well as their very obvious weaknesses.Why did you choose
this character for the interview today?Becky
is central to the novel. In my past two books, the heroes have been very clear
to me, and the heroines have emerged as I wrote. The same happened here; I
began with Aldridge, but Becky took over. The action of the book comes as other
characters react to her.Are any sequels
planned for this book?I
didn’t plan to write this book at all. It was Aldridge’s idea. Aldridge is
cousin to the hero of Farewell to
Kindness, and half-brother to the hero of my work-in-progress, Encouraging Prudence. I planned to give
him his own novel eventually, but I needed a novella to fill a gap between
publications. A brief book about one of Aldridge’s dalliances seemed as if it
would be fun. Then Becky took over. Now that the book is done, one of the
off-stage characters is knocking at the door of my mind. So not a sequel precisely,
but a linked stand-alone? We’ll see what the plot elves have in store.Why should readers
who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?Try
A Baron for Becky if you like novels whose characters meet life’s challenges by
resolving their own inner demons. It’s very different to my novella, Candle’s
Christmas Chair, which was a sweet traditional, and my first novel, Farewell to
Kindness, which has a large cast and an action-driven plot full of twists and
turns, mystery and thrills. A Baron for Becky has five central characters, and
most of the action focuses on three: Aldridge, Becky, and Hugh. Two heroes and
one heroine. Yes, indeed. As I say, very different.About the Book
Title
A Baron for BeckyGenre
Historical Romance (Regency)Author
Jude KnightBook
heat level (based on movie ratings): PG 13Becky is the envy of the courtesans of the demi-monde –
the indulged mistress of the wealthy and charismatic Marquis of Aldridge. But
she dreams of a normal life; one in which her daughter can have a future that
does not depend on beauty, sex, and the whims of a man.Finding herself with child, she hesitates to tell
Aldridge. Will he cast her off, send her away, or keep her and condemn another
child to this uncertain shadow world?The devil-may-care face Hugh shows to the world hides a
desperate sorrow; a sorrow he tries to drown with drink and riotous living. His
years at war haunt him, but even more, he doesn’t want to think about the
illness that robbed him of the ability to father a son. When he dies, his
barony will die with him. His title will fall into abeyance, and his estate
will be scooped up by the Crown.When Aldridge surprises them both with a daring
proposition, they do not expect love to be part of the bargain.Buy This Book
Amazon
http://amzn.to/1C3hFNlAmazon
UK http://amzn.to/1H3YmTkBarnes
and Noble http://bit.ly/1GRTvkRiBooks
http://apple.co/1FVFNfUSmashwords
http://bit.ly/1HzUXPfCreateSpace
https://www.createspace.com/5653603Author Social Media
Website
and blog http://judeknightauthor.com/Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/jknight1033/Goodreads
http://www.goodreads.com/judeknightAmazon
Author Page http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jude-Knight/e/B00RG3SG7I -
Cole Tucker from False Impressions @Mariannericeaut #Contemporary #RLFblog
Interview with Cole TuckerTell us about yourself,
please.I love women. Not much more to stay than that (He winks and flashes
his dimple). Not the answer you’re looking for? Okay, well, for years I’d been
the party guy. But after a run in with a tree after a few too many beers, I had
to reevaluate a few things. My folks were getting too old to run the horse farm
so I’ve taken over that, as well as managing the properties my brothers and I
own. They’d settled down with their wives and careers but good ‘ol Cole and his
lack of a real job was here to run things. Damn. I sound like a depressed
loser. So not the impression I’m used to making. So, how’re you doing? I
appreciate you reading about me. Hey, don’t I know you? Yeah, you’re the girl
with the beautiful smile.What can you not do (but
need to do) during this story?I should tell Sam about my past. About my DUI. But she lost her
daughter and husband to a drunk. I don’t want to be put in the same category as
that murderer. But I am, aren’t I? No, I’m not. I wasn’t an alcoholic. I didn’t
depend on the stuff to make me happy, but I did enjoy having a cold brew in my
hand when I watched the Sox or Patriots kick some butt and when I barbecued or
hung out with my brothers. Quitting wasn’t hard. But I was ashamed of being so stupid that I drove while
intoxicated; I didn’t want Sam to know how weak I’d been. I’d been able to make
her and her son smile and laugh again. It made me proud and gave me something
positive in my life to look forward to. I couldn’t crush her smile with my
secret. I cared about her too much. But I needed to tell her the truth.
Unfortunately she found out before I could come clean.What inner doubt causes
you the most difficulty?I don’t like to take life seriously and doubt my ability to be good
enough for the most perfect, kind-hearted, loving woman in the world. And what
kind of role model would I be for her son? Woah. We’re getting a bit too deep
here. Let’s talk about you. I don’t want you to think I’m ridiculous or
anything, but you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. I just felt
like I had to tell you.Tell us about your
significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.Samantha Chase is the most perfect, kind-hearted, loving woman in the
world. She’s short, spunky and tough as nails, and there isn’t a word in the
dictionary for how good she looks. A lot of strength wrapped up in a pretty
package. She’s the bacon to my eggs.What would that person say
about you?I’m the master of pick up lines and proud of it. They’d gotten me out
of quite a few jams, but Sam would only roll her eyes and either brush off my
come on or give me a kick ass reply. I think I freaked her out in the beginning
by hitting it off with her son so quickly. But what can I say? The kid has
great taste in super heroes. I guess she thinks I’m a kid at heart.What is your family like?Have you read Connor or Mason’s books yet? That’ll tell you a thing or
two. With three other siblings, life is never just chill (that’s my role in the
family—everyone else is a work hound). My mother has played her hand at
matchmaker and passed the role on to my sister-in-law. We get into everyone’s
business and are always there to support each other.What special skills do you
rely on?I’m really good with my hands.Why are you happy (or not
happy) with the way your story ended?I learned a lot about honesty and forgiveness, got the girl, an
amazing step-son and a bright future. So, yeah. Life is good.About the WriterMarianne Rice
writes contemporary romances set in small New England towns. When she’s not
writing, Marianne spends her time buying shoes, eating chocolate, chauffeuring
her herd of children to their varying sporting events, and when there’s time,
relaxing with fancy drinks and romance books.www.mariannerice.weebly.comWhat was your biggest
challenge in writing this book?Cole had a mind of his own. He had a line for everyone. Seriously.
Even me. I was struggling with a serious scene and he pops out and says, “Baby,
if you were words on a page, you’d be what they call FINE PRINT!” It was hard
staying on track with Cole distracting me every step of the way. He’s a
carefree, funny, charming guy and the master of pick-up lines, but he was
harboring an embarrassing secret. I needed to build his character without
making him seem too shallow, or letting his secret change his personality.Why did you choose this
character for the interview today?Because he’s fun but real. When I ask readers what they’re looking for
in a man they often say: loyalty, honesty, a sense of humor…and looks. Cole has
all these qualities, except he is harboring a secret. The secret wasn’t meant
to hurt anyone but to protect himself.When writing the book,
what did you discover about this character that surprised you?Cole’s appearances in the first two books are pretty superficial and
fun, but I found a depth to him and deep feelings that he didn’t like to show
others. Well, Sam was able to find those. I just wrote what she was able to
discover. I also hadn’t planned on his connection with Levi, Sam’s son. The
interactions between the two were quite fun to write and were totally
unplanned.Why should readers who
haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?While the premise of this book may seem serious, it’s actually quite
light-hearted. I wrote it when my son was four and incorporated many of our
conversations into Levi’s dialogue. I love seeing the interaction between Cole
and Levi. It’s adorable.Is there anything you’d
like to say to your readers?Thank you so much for picking up my books. The McKay-Tucker series is
my first set of books and I’m thrilled to have them in digital and print
formats for my friends, family and new readers. This has been an amazing
experience and I look forward to sharing many more stories with you. Sweet on
You, the first book in The Wilde Sisters comes out in September. They’re light,
fun, sexy and deal with many real-life emotional issues as well.About the BookTitle False ImpressionsGenre Contemporary RomanceAuthor Marianne RiceBook heat level (based on movie ratings): PG13Recovering alcoholic and former party animal, Cole Tucker would be an
idiot to start something with his newly hired right-hand woman, Samantha Chase.
It figures he can’t seem to keep his mitts of the sexy, five-foot-nothing
single mom who can toss a sack of shingles over her shoulder and rewire a house
better than the crew from Extreme Home Makeover. Her incredible strength
and self-confidence draw him in; something Cole has pretended to have for
years. All he has to show for himself is his uncanny use of pick-up lines, a
hand-me-down farm and some small-town rental properties. When he learns Samantha’s
husband and daughter were killed by a drunk driver, the shame of his past
experience with a DUI and near-death accident is the last thing he wants to
mention to her.Samantha has no problem accepting her new boss, flaws and all. His
simple life is charming and exactly what she hoped to find for herself and her
son in Newhall, New Hampshire. Cole wins her over by befriending her fatherless
son and making her laugh again, something she hasn’t done in four years. When
she learns about his shady past with the bottle, her heart tells her to
forgive, but the painful memories of her past are too deep to overlook.Buy This BookPublisher http://www.lsbooks.comAmazon http://goo.gl/rqT03bARe https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-falseimpressions-1841673-149.htmlBarnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/false-impressions-marianne-rice/1122058236?ean=9781622102013iBooks https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/false-impressions/id1001761582?mt=11Author Social MediaWebsite www.mariannerice.weebly.comBlog www.mariannerice.weebly.comPinterest https//www.pinterest.com/mariannericeautGoodreads https://www.goodreads.com/MarianneRiceAmazon Author Page http://amazon.com/author/mariannerice