Author Speed Dating – Heatherly Bell

March 29, 2017 by Dana Nussio

I love discovering new authors, so I wanted my blog to be a place where readers and my author pals could come together. Only we like to do this Speed-Dating style. Check out a new author and her work here every Wednesday, and if the spark is there, you’ll have a match.

This week’s guest: Heatherly Bell

15 Questions

1. If a director made a movie about your life, which actress (living or dead) would you like to portray you, and which one would more likely be cast?

Like: Michelle Williams. Likely: Lucille Ball.

2. What are some of the things that have changed in the publishing industry since your first book was published?

Eleventy million little things; the combined list on the New York Times is just the latest thing.

3. Us Weekly or Newsweek?

Us Weekly.

4. As a reader, do you sneak a peek at the end of the book, or do you make yourself wait for answers until the very end?

The only time I’ve done this if I’m not reading a romance novel, where I’m guaranteed an HEA. Then I want to peek ahead and find out (and prepare myself) if I’m going to be crushed.

5. Have you ever, even for a moment, forgotten that one of your characters was…you know…fictional?

Yes, definitely my heroines with the best clothes and fashion sense…I’d like to borrow stuff from their closet, or at least their shoes.

6. In which genres and sub-genres are you published, and which others do you plan to add to the list in the next two years?

Contemporary and inspirational. If I ever find the time, I’d be interested in writing a contemporary YA or maybe some Women’s Fiction. Someday.

7. Brad Pitt or David Beckham?

Brad Pitt.

8. If we imagine that a reader has lived on a desert island and missed the opportunity to read one of your books, which title do you recommend that she order as soon as she returns to civilization?

FOREVER WITH YOU, a first-love reunion story with a Marine hero, for a feel-good ride. (You’ve been through a hard time.)

9. Do you have a green thumb or black one, and, either way, how are you gearing up for spring planting season?

Black. I’m gearing up for the spring planting season by watching The Bachelor.

10. When and how did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

I wanted to be an author “someday” from the time I was in my high school English class and we had an assignment to write a short story.

11. Antique Roadshow or Law & Order: SVU?

SVU!

12. What is your favorite song of all time, and what do you do when it comes on the radio or when you stream it?

Having been in music for decades, asking me to pick my favorite song is like asking me to pick my favorite child. I can tell you that when Bruno Mars comes on with “Uptown Funk”, I want to drop everything and dance!

13. What do you believe is your biggest strength as a writer, and what has been your approach to tackling some of your weaknesses?

Dialogue is a strength, I’m told, and I’m trying to tackle my plotting issues with a more detailed plan and road map. Good luck to me.

14. Regarding board games, Scrabble or Left, Right, Center?

Scrabble.

15. What is your biggest hope for a reader when she opens one of your books?

I hope she’s able to escape for a while into a believable, but light-hearted world in which everything is possible.

***

Airman to the Rescue

By Heatherly Bell

SARAH STUMBLED INTO the now dark living room, and found Matt lying on the couch, Shackles curled up at his feet. Through the sliver of moonlight shining through the window, she could make out that he had his shirt off, a pillow over his face. As if she’d given him a headache.

Wait until she got going. “Matt.”

Under his pillow, she heard him groan.

“What’s going on here?” She stood hands on hips and then decided that looked too accusatory for seduction, so she relaxed her arms at her sides.

“Go to sleep, Sarah.”

“No.”

He lifted the pillow from his face, one eye open. “I don’t want to argue with you.”
“I don’t want to argue, either. I just want you to tell me what happened tonight.”

“Guess if you don’t know, I must not have done it right.”

“You did everything right.” Her voice softened. Now that she faced this—thing—between them her mouth was parched and dry. But she couldn’t lose her nerve now. “The only thing you did wrong was stop.”

“Wasn’t my choice.”

“But now it is.”

He didn’t move. “Go to sleep. Please.”

“Well, since you said please.”

“Seriously? That’s all it takes?”

“No. I lied. I’ll go to sleep, but not until you hear me out. I might be Stone’s sister, but I’m also a grown woman and I know what I want.”

“What do you want? Because I thought you wanted to fix this house and flip it. Sell it so you can get back to Colorado.”

Couldn’t a woman want more than one thing? “I want you, Matt. That’s what I want.”

“Do you? Be careful what you’re asking for. Maybe you don’t know me as well as you think you do.”

“I know enough. I know you’re one of the good guys.”

He snorted. “Yeah.”

“Do you think I’m going to fall in love with you? Is that it? Because that’s not an issue. I don’t believe in love.”

At that he removed the pillow from his head. “You don’t believe in love.”

“Does that shock you? Why should it? I grew up as the child of a broken home and I’ve seen more divorces around me than I care to remember. You of all people should understand.”

“Me of all people?”

“You’re also from a broken home. And…you’re a single father.”

“That doesn’t mean I don’t believe in love. And I think it’s pretty messed up that you don’t, Sarah.”

“Okay. What do you want? Is it me at all? Because a couple of hours ago you had me pretty well convinced, so if you’ve changed your mind you need to tell me now.”

There. She couldn’t believe she’d let all her thoughts spill out at last. Everything she’d intended to tell him for months had come pouring out of her lips, like the semidark of the room had given her added courage. In the ensuing quiet Sarah didn’t think he would answer her at all. Worse, in the dark of the room she couldn’t take a cue from his usually expressive eyes.

“I want you, Sarah.” He finally spoke, the sound of his voice so naked and raw that Sarah’s knees went boneless.

***

AIRMAN TO THE RESCUE, a June 2017 release from Harlequin Superromance, may be pre-ordered through these retailers: Amazon, iTunes, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and Harlequin.

***

About Heatherly

Heatherly Bell drinks copious amounts of coffee, craves cupcakes, and occasionally wears real pants. She lives in northern California with her family. Stay in contact with Heatherly through her website, www.heatherlybell.com; and through these social-media channels: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

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Author Speed Dating – Lenora Worth

March 22, 2017 by Dana Nussio

This week’s guest: Lenora Worth

15 Questions

1. If a director made a movie about your life, which actress (living or dead) would you like to portray you, and which one would more likely be cast?

Hmm, I’d love Jessica Lange, but I’d probably get Amy Schumer!!!

2. What are some of the things that have changed in the publishing industry since your first book was published?

E-mailing our manuscripts back and forth, Indie publishing exploding, Twitter!, Social Media marketing.

3. Us Weekly or Newsweek?

Newsweek.

4. As a reader, do you sneak a peek at the end of the book, or do you make yourself wait for answers until the very end?

No, never. I like to savor the book until the end.

5. Have you ever, even for a moment, forgotten that one of your characters was…you know…fictional?

Yes, all the time. I wake up wondering what they are doing!

6. In which genres and sub-genres are you published, and which others do you plan to add to the list in the next two years?

Inspirational romance and romantic suspense, single title. One day I’d love to write a historical.

7. Brad Pitt or David Beckham?

Beckham.

THAT WILD COWBOY (Harlequin Superromance). A slice of reality.

9. Do you have a green thumb or black one, and, either way, how are you gearing up for spring planting season?

Not a green one. But I supervise my husband in my Southern garden (we are in a new house with new yard.) Gardenias, magnolias, azaleas, and palm trees so far.  Oh, and jasmine. Lots of jasmine.

10. When and how did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

In the fourth grade when we had to do a writing project. I loved it!

11. Antique Roadshow or Law & Order: SVU?

Law & Order: SVU.

12. What is your favorite song of all time, and what do you do when it comes on the radio or when you stream it?

“The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles. I cry.

13. What do you believe is your biggest strength as a writer, and what has been your approach to tackling some of your weaknesses?

My biggest strength. I can see the whole story in my head. My weakness–writing a synopsis for what I see in my head.

14. Regarding board games, Scrabble or Left, Right, Center?

Darling, I don’t play board games. Solitaire.

15. What is your biggest hope for a reader when she opens one of your books?

That it makes her laugh and cry and gives her hope. We have to have hope.

*******

Her Lakeside Family

By Lenora Worth

He prayed the new nanny—one of many his sister Rikki had hired since Althea’s death–had arrived. He hadn’t met the woman but Rikki and Blain had vetted her and cleared her, stating she had impeccable credentials. Santo hurried to the door and opened it while he held Nate’s squirming, screaming little body against his heart.

The woman standing there didn’t look like the typical nanny. She had strawberry-blonde hair that shot out in chunky layers around her face and chin. Her eyes were an ethereal green, like the bay waters in the early morning. She wore a plaid button-up shirt, worn jeans and … work boots.

“Hello,” the woman said. “I’m–.”

“I’m so glad you’re here, Mrs. Brownlee,” Santo interrupted, shoving Nate into her arms. “The instructions are on the counter in the kitchen. The girls go to Millbrook Elementary and they usually catch the bus or ride home with a neighbor. I’ll take them to school and call the neighbor to pick them up this afternoon. Nate has daycare but now that you’re here, let’s just keep him home today.”

He kissed his sobbing son. “C’mon on, girls.”

Nate started crying all over again. But the woman standing there marched right on in and said something soothing in his son’s ear. Nate hiccupped and stopped crying, his misty brown eyes glued on the woman holding him.

She smiled over at Santo. “I’m sorry but–.”

“I want my purse,” Adriana said on a scream, her long brown curls falling over her purple tunic and matching leggings. She looked at the surprised woman. “I can’t leave without my purse.”

The pretty nanny looked at Adriana with sympathetic eyes. “Of course not. I never leave home without my–.”

“Found it,” Lucia said, shoving the shiny purple shoulder bag at her little sister. “Now can I please get to school?”

Santo let out a sigh and nodded to the woman. “You don’t have to apologize but please try to be on time from now on, okay?”

The woman’s green eyes flared with something akin to mirth. “Mr. Alvanetti, I don’t think you understand. I’m not–.”

“I’m here,” said a shrill, laughing voice from the open door. “And not a moment too soon from the looks of things.”

Confused, Santo turned to find a plump, smiling woman with short auburn hair and black-framed, crystal-encrusted glasses standing on the threshold. “I’m Virginia Brownlee. I’m your nanny.”

Santo looked from the smiling woman at the door to the bemused woman still holding his son. “Then who are you?”

“I’ve been trying to tell you that for the last five minutes,” she said, passing Nate back to him. “I’m Davina Connell. I’m here to help you get this house in shape to sell. I’m the contractor.”

***

HER LAKESIDE FAMILY, a January 2017 release from Harlequin Love Inspired, may be purchased through these retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and Harlequin.

*******

About Lenora

Lenora Worth writes award-winning romance and romantic suspense for Love Inspired and also writes for Tule Publishing. Three of her books finaled in the ACFW Carol Awards and several of her books have been RT Reviewer’s Choice finalists. LOGAN’S CHILD won the 1998 Best Love Inspired for RT. Her Love Inspired Suspense, BODY OF EVIDENCE, became a NY Times Bestseller. Her novella in MISTLETOE KISSES, along with several other writers, also made her a USA Today Bestselling author. Recently, she received the Romantic Times Pioneer Award for Inspirational Fiction and became a member of the RWA Honor Roll. With over 70 books published and millions of books in print, she goes on adventures with her retired husband, Don. They have two grown children. Lenora enjoys reading, baking and shopping … especially shoe shopping. Learn more about Lenora through her website, www.lenoraworth.com, and stay in touch with her through her group blog, Craftie Ladies of Love Inspired, and these social-media channels: Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

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“Dinner with Your Muslim Neighbor” builds bridges

March 21, 2017March 21, 2017 by Dana Nussio

What happens when you position 13 strangers around a table covered with plates of mouth-watering food and offer them the promise of stimulating conversation? You can’t help but to build bridges and share understanding. At least that was what American Muslim couple Hussein and Amanda Saab hoped when they hosted their first “Dinner With Your Muslim Neighbor” dinner party at their former home in Seattle in January 2016. That night’s event, and the nine that followed it, proved them right.

The opportunity to be a guest at Hussein and Amanda’s “Dinner With Your Muslim Neighbor” #11 – the first they’ve hosted in their new Southeast Michigan home – fell into my lap last week. My stomach and my heart couldn’t be happier that I said yes. I’m so pleased to have been a part of this young couple’s plan to share friendship and some truths about their faith and culture…one meal at a time.

I attended this event as a regular guest, just one of the 11 who took the risk of showing up for dinner in a stranger’s house, but the writer part of me just wouldn’t stay at home. I know you’d be disappointed if I didn’t share my story.

I can admit now that I was a little nervous going in. Hussein and Amanda weren’t the first Muslim couple I’ve ever met, but this was my first meal in a Muslim home, and I didn’t want to offend anyone. I fussed over my outfit, worried about dressing discreetly, and I searched the Internet for Muslim dinner customs. I even asked my friend, who invited me to fill the dinner-party spot, if I needed to cover my head when I attended. (Pretty silly, I know.)

Some of the other guests might have been nervous, too, but from the moment Hussein opened their front door, our warm and welcoming hosts put us at ease. Amanda won us over as well with hugs and the mingling scents of the delicious dinner she’d spent the whole day preparing. For you foodies out there, the menu included salmon with dill and mustard, garlic Parmesan asparagus, roasted rosemary red potatoes, kefta with tahini sauce, saffron rice, baba ganoush and a spring salad. Believe me, she had me at baba ganoush!

Of course, Amanda has long known the power of good food as a vehicle for both sustenance and understanding. You might recognize the Dearborn, Michigan, native from Season 6 of MASTERCHEF on Fox, where she competed as the first woman to wear a hijab on an American cooking show. Now the social worker by day is a popular food blogger at www.amandasplate.com, where she shares own recipes like Chocolate Cupcakes with Swiss Meringue Buttercream and Pumpkin Cheesecake with Marshmallow Meringue Topping. Yum!

But I’m digressing along a path of gastronomical delights. “Dinner With Your Muslim Neighbor” was about far more than just the food, after all. As we gathered along the amazing, long dining table that Hussein had built himself, we got down to the other purpose of the evening: sharing a dialogue. Remember being asked never to discuss religion and politics in a social setting? Well, here were free and even encouraged to take on difficult topics. We came to this table from many places – from a variety of cultural and religious traditions and from different experiences involving race, education and sexual orientation – but here we were, side-by-side, sharing opinions and our stories. Subjects slid effortlessly from the political climate to feminism to immigration. Several around the table made thoughtful contributions to the conversation, but I was especially impressed with my fellow dinner guest, Nour, a Muslim high school student who displayed wisdom beyond her 17 years.

Next, Hussein gently guided the conversation to one of the planned topics: giving guests the opportunity to ask any questions they had about the Muslim faith. Some of the questions involved the hijab, the traditional headscarf that many Muslim women wear. Amanda described hers as an outward expression of her faith, something that she chose to put on each day as a reminder that her faith comes first in her life. Interesting how that didn’t seem so different from the cross I choose to wear on a chain around my neck. Amanda, Nour and Hussein also spoke about their individual journeys that led them to the active practice of their Muslim faith. Hussein spoke about the guidance he receives from the Quran, regarding compassion toward others. Sure, there were differences from my own faith, but we shared a lot of good things in common as well.

We talked about the tough stuff, too, about unkind words from those few people who choose to see only differences instead of those things we share in common, those who cling to ignorance and strike out in their fear. Like the woman who shouted out her car window at Amanda that she should go back where she came from. (Like Dearborn?) And that although the couple have never been taunted together, Amanda has faced cruel comments while she was alone and vulnerable.

But just as the Saabs choose not to dwell on dark moments and to find hope in their fellow man instead, they didn’t leave the evening there. They rounded out the dinner party with a sweet dessert spread: tiny cheesecakes, cookies, fresh fruit and blood-orange Bundt cake. None of us were ready to stop talking though. We settled into smaller groups and shared more of our stories. Soon we were exchanging business cards and Facebook friend requests. We all considered how we might use our own platforms to help spread Hussein and Amanda’s message of understanding through face-to-face meetings. Finally, we took a group photo and headed for the door.

What a great evening it was. Less than four hours had passed from the moment we stepped inside until we shrugged back into our coats, and yet I believe we were all a little different for having attended. I certainly learned a few things. And I met some great people, too. We all came as strangers. We left as friends.

Note: To learn more about the Saabs’ “Dinner With Your Muslim Neighbor” effort, visit Amanda’s website, www.amandasplate.com.

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Author Speed Dating – Aliza Mann

March 15, 2017 by Dana Nussio

This week’s guest: Aliza Mann

15 Questions

1. If a director made a movie about your life, which actress (living or dead) would you like to portray you, and which one would more likely be cast?

I hope it’s okay if I do two actresses – one living and one deceased. The first (living) would be Viola Davis because she is one of those freaks of nature who is so incredibly moving and powerful, she could play a loaf of bread and we’d be in tears by the end. Right? The other (deceased) is Dorothy Dandridge because she could sing and dance. I can’t do either (ha!) and it would just be nice to see someone really great enhance those skill sets for me in a movie. Obviously, my life would be a musical.

2. What are some of the things that have changed in the publishing industry since your first book was published?

There were more big publishing houses than there are now. We’ve seen a number of mergers and acquisitions across the industry that have somewhat narrowed the playing field in one aspect, since the emergence of self-publishing. There are arguments for both, traditional vs. self, along with lots of pros for hybrid publishing. I went with a small press back then, since I was scared to death of self-pubbing. I don’t think I’d do that if faced with the same decision today. So much info is available on how to, what to, and when to self-publish which is making it a more viable option, in my opinion. There were also some genre shifts. I think there will always be those types of up and downs in every genre. At the time, trends led away from the paranormal genre. Otherwise, my first book probably would have been something about shifters or vampires. I’m glad to see that paranormal is on the rise again in both popularity and sales.

3. Us Weekly or Newsweek?

Us Weekly because my guilty pleasure is gossip.

4. As a reader, do you sneak a peek at the end of the book, or do you make yourself wait for answers until the very end?

I read in order. I feel weird when I sneak ahead. I really want to walk with the characters. Gosh, I’m such a goody-goody sometimes!

5. Have you ever, even for a moment, forgotten that one of your characters was…you know…fictional?

I have a character who I’ve written a few chapters on and haven’t made it back to the project. Her voice came out so clear, I had to stop and write her. It was, oddly, such a strong story that I did find myself thinking of her as a real person a couple of times. I think there has been maybe one other. It doesn’t happen often, but I imagine it will. Something of an occupational hazard.

6. In which genres and sub-genres are you published, and which others do you plan to add to the list in the next two years?

I have contemporary and paranormal romance. I don’t think I’ll go beyond those two subgenres, unless I dabbled in Romantic Suspense. I feel that suspense is one you must do very well to carry off. Maybe that’s me romanticizing those wonderful writers of that subgenre. Maybe one day…

7. Brad Pitt or David Beckham?

Beckham! Did you see those underwear ads? I was sold.

I would recommend FURY RISING. It’s one of my favorite stories and I believe it offers a glimpse into my psyche.

9. Do you have a green thumb or black one, and, either way, how are you gearing up for spring planting season?

It has to be black. But I have one plant that is a climbing pothos. It has grown from the top of my bookshelf to the floor. I’m so proud of it because I’ve never been able to grow a thing. It’s very temperamental however. It really hates water, I think. Whenever I over-water, the leaves look so sad for a couple of days.

10. When and how did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

This, like most things here, is going to sound crazy. I knew I wanted to write something when I was about eleven. I called up the local paper and asked if I could write a column for them. No idea what that entailed, but a very patient and kind editor told me all about submitting a portfolio and have engaging topics, and finding my audience. I will never forget how excited I was that he’d taken me seriously. That day, I knew I would write.

11. Antique Roadshow or Law & Order: SVU?

SVU. It’s the best.

12. What is your favorite song of all time, and what do you do when it comes on the radio or when you stream it?

Ed Sheeran: “Thinking Out Loud”. Whenever it comes on the radio or my playlists, I sing and sway along with it. Again, I’m the worst singer and dancer, but that song makes me feel like I can. So beautiful.

13. What do you believe is your biggest strength as a writer, and what has been your approach to tackling some of your weaknesses?

I believe I am very strong at emotional development of characters. I could use some working on plot. One of the things I’ve done is shifted, or tried to shift, from pantsing to plotting. It is very helpful to see what I need to do, what isn’t working, the areas that are lacking tension… If it’s all in my head, I’m unable to see those things as clearly. As much as I hate plotting, I had to change for the good of my writing.

14. Regarding board games, Scrabble or Left, Right, Center?

Scrabble. I mean, most writers have to go with Scrabble, right? LOL.

15. What is your biggest hope for a reader when she opens one of your books?

The primary goal for anything I write is connection. If one reader reads one of my stories and goes away from it feeling as if they connected with the story, the hero, the heroine, I’m going to be very happy.

***

Dark Hearts

By Aliza Mann

The heat burned into Mitch’s knuckles from the grill as he flipped the quarter pound beef over and lightly poked with the tip of the spatula. There was no excuse for an overdone burger in his mind. He avoided looking at Gigi. The glare in her eyes was bound to be intense and accusatory.

“I don’t know why you want to go down that road again. She’s not for you, wolf-boy.”

Mitch choked down the disdain at his best friend’s comments with a smirk. “Who says?”

“Kayla is not what you need. Leave her alone, Mitch. I mean it,” Bridget said with a huff. Picking up her tray, she turned and flipped her midnight black and white-streaked ponytail over her shoulder, then sped off to yet another table of hungry, possibly drunken college students.

On her way across the room, she dropped off the fries he’d just prepared to the curly-haired beauty at a table in the middle of the room.

Mitch may have been prepared to ignore Kayla and heed Gigi’s warning, but then it happened. She smiled . . . bit her bottom lip, then ran her hand through that wild as hell, sexier than hell hair of hers. His mind ran back over the night they’d shared a week prior. She captivated him.

Her smooth, brown skin radiated with a warm blush as she spoke some quick statement to Gigi. It could have been ‘thank you’ or ‘bring me another trough of fries’ or whatever. Regardless, she looked like an angel.

Mitch returned his attention to the grill, the scent of the burgers reaching the overcooked point that demanded he stop daydreaming about the beautiful girl who’d managed to do what an entire campus full of women had tried and failed at. Miserably.

“Where’s my chicken tenders and fries, Mitch? C’mon, keep up with me. We’re down a server tonight, so stop poking around.” Gigi’s voice echoed into the kitchen from the small serving window, which also served as Mitch’s vantage point for the whole dining area. Jesse’s was an endless source of entertainment.

“Intense, much? Here. Take your order,” Mitch barked in his playful way and placed the heated plate from the steel countertop. “And you should try to keep up with me. There are three more behind this one.”

“Remember what I said, Mitch. Besides, she already has a man in her life making things difficult. Not only that—you’re just too different. So take your break outside before the next rush. And don’t even think about bringing those bedroom eyes into the dining room. Leave my orders up.”

Another flip of her ponytail, and she was off again. Mitch didn’t need to be psychic to pick up that Kayla had been having a bad time, what with all of Gigi’s hints and their conversation the night they’d met. And she was right. The last thing he needed was a demon bringing unwanted attention. They could be messy. Mitch was mostly invisible to everyone on campus. Except for the women who went for the tall, dark and arrogant type. The façade he depended on made his life more difficult, but he needed it. His survival depended on it.

***

DARK HEARTS, a May 2016 release from Intima Press, may be purchased through these retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million.

***

About Aliza

Aliza Mann is, and always has been, infatuated with reading and writing. From childhood, one would be more likely to find her reading than most anything else. Spending her summers hidden away in her room until it was time to either eat or go to the library to get more books, she wasn’t interested in many things outside of her fav pastime. Even then, it didn’t necessarily dawn on her that writing romance would be the career of her dreams. She had an idea that writing would make her happy, but not necessarily becoming a novelist. In fact, as a child she once contacted a local newspaper to get info on becoming an advice columnist. It wasn’t until 2008, after her education in business was behind her and she was well on her way to a promising career in the health care industry, that she realized her dream of becoming a romance writer. From there, she found Romance Writers of America and a local chapter, Greater Detroit Romance Writers and through their support, education and resources, she has been able to follow her dreams. And she lives happily ever after writing paranormal and contemporary romance titles.

When she isn’t working her two full-time jobs and reading, she is spending time with her wonderful family – her daughter and son-in-law; her son, who is about to break her heart by leaving for college; and her beau at her home in Metro Detroit. She loves golf, food (not the cooking part), and fashion (with the credit card bills to prove it). You can find her on Twitter , Facebook and through her website, www.alizamannauthor.com.

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Author Speed Dating – Victoria Craven

March 8, 2017 by Dana Nussio

This week’s guest: Victoria Craven

15 Questions

1. If a director made a movie about your life, which actress (living or dead) would you like to portray you, and which one would more likely be cast?

I would like to be portrayed by Renée Zellweger. She seems to understand chaos. If Madelyn Khan were still alive, I would more likely be portrayed by her as the drama queen.

2. What are some of the things that have changed in publishing since your first book was published?

The thing that has changed the most is social media. There is more exposure than ever, and if you’re not paying attention, you’re going to miss something.

3. Us Weekly or Newsweek?

Newsweek. I like the coverage of their stories.

4. As a reader, do you sneak a peek at the end of the book, or do you make yourself wait for answers until the very end?

I never, never take a peek at the end. Reading a book from beginning to end is part of a journey I take with the author.

5. Have you ever, even for a moment, forgotten that one of your characters was…you know…fictional?

I talk about my characters as though they are real. I give them a life of their own. They are very real to me. My family thinks I’m crazy. I don’t disagree with them.

6. In which genres and sub-genres are you published, and which others do you plan to add to the list in the next two years?

Currently, I’m published in paranormal, historical romance, but in the next two years I hope to be published in suspense.

7. Brad Pitt or David Beckham?

Brad Pitt he is aging beautifully. David Beckham is young enough to make me feel like Mrs. Robinson.

The first book in my series, IMMORTAL LOVE.

9. Do you have a green thumb or black one, and, either way, how are you gearing up for spring planting season?

I have a black one. I have managed to kill everything I attempted to grow. Thank goodness I live in a condo.

10. When and how did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

I decided to be a writer when I got my first computer. There were blank pages calling to my imagination.

11. Antique Roadshow or Law & Order: SVU?

Antique Roadshow. I love the unexpected treasures people were hanging on to and had no idea what it was worth.

12. What is your favorite song of all time, and what do you do when it comes on the radio or when you stream it?

“Piano Man” by Billy Joel. Every time I hear it, I just have to sing.

13. What do you believe is your biggest strength as a writer, and what has been your approach to tackling some of your weaknesses?

My biggest strength is character development. I have to use an outline to tackle the events that get them from point A to point B.

14. Regarding board games, Scrabble or Left, Right, Center?

It has to be Left, Right, Center. I suck at Scrabble. It’s a shame to admit for a writer.

15. What is your biggest hope for a reader when she opens one of your books?

That they love the characters and their journey that brings them together.

***

Destiny’s Promise

By Victoria Craven

He carried Carina to her chambers and laid her limp body on the bed. She was growing cold. His mind reached out to listen to her heartbeat. It was slow but steady. He piled blankets on her and stirred up the embers in the hearth adding new logs.

He sat back down on the bed and rubbed her cold hands. “Come on Carina, wake up.” She was barely breathing. He shook her shoulders, “Come back to me, sweetheart.”

Kiera ran through the door. She looked at Carina on the bed. “What happened?”

“We were talking then all of a sudden she collapsed.”

“Let me see what I can do.” Kiera took Carina’s hands and closed her eyes. Soon color returned to her face and her breathing was more audible.

Eleanor and Arelia charged in. “What’s wrong,” Eleanor said.

“She collapsed.”

Arelia placed her hand on Carina’s head. “She’s coming out of it.”

Fury burned inside of him. The table began to shake. Eleanor turned to him. “You better get out of here before you hurt someone.”

“That’s exactly what I plan to do.” He ran out of the room and headed for the stairs. He took them two at a time, then out of the Great Hall and headed toward the Golden Goblet. He could feel the energy building inside him, and his fingertips tingled.

When he first walked in he didn’t see Disa, but felt her presence. He crashed through her chamber door. To his satisfaction she jumped. He heard her two henchmen running up the stairs and he sent a bolt of energy, knocking them end over end. To his satisfaction she looked worried, but soon covered it up with a smug expression.

“Why, my Lord to what do I owe the pleasure.”

“I want you to stop doing what you’re doing to Carina.”

“Like I said. No.”

She said it with such finality, his temper flared, shattering the mirror on the wall. “Don’t test me, Disa.”

“Oh, please, what are you going to do, make it rain?”

He opened his palm and summoned a lightning ball. Then he opened his other palm and summoned another. Disa had barely enough time to throw up a protection spell before the lightning splintered toward her, yet her spell wasn’t strong enough and it began to crack. She threw another one to reinforce it.

Another bolt hit her wall and it began to crack again. With one final push of energy he’d broken through and her protection spell shattered, blowing her back on the bed.

He closed his fists and walked over to her. His face merely inches from hers. “Leave now,” he said with a deadly growl, “or so help me God, I will make you suffer.” Then stormed out of the room.

***

DESTINY’S PROMISE, Book 3 in the Love Conquers All series, is a March 7, 2017, release from Tell-Tale Publishing. It may be purchased from Amazon.

***

About Victoria

Victoria Craven was born to tell stories. Throughout her childhood she was a daydreamer. Growing up, she told the most outrageous tales to her friends that got her in trouble now and then. She escaped the mundane to live in her fantasies: She was a mermaid, a princess, a spy, and an explorer trekking across the tundra in Antarctica. Even as an adult, she saved just a little part of herself to drift into her dream world.

Then one day she said to herself, “I’m going to write a book,” and that’s what she did. She had no idea what it took to be a writer, thinking all you had to do was add some words and ideas to a page and poof, a book, and every word was golden. What a rude awakening when her writer friends took her into the light and showed her just how much she had to learn. That process is still going on today!

Victoria has published the first three books in a historical paranormal series, Love Conquers All.

Currently, she resides in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area with her wonderful husband, who spoils her rotten. And from time to time is her critique buddy. She is the mother of three beautiful daughters and grandmother to four wonderful grandchildren.

When she isn’t writing, she doting on her grandchildren, curled up on the couch with her husband, or having a sleepover with her best friends.

And she still saves just a little bit of her life for those daydreams.

Stay in contact with Victoria through her website, www.victoriacraven.com, or connect with her through Facebook and Twitter.

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Author Speed Dating: Maris Soule

March 1, 2017 by Dana Nussio

This week’s guest: Maris Soule

15 Questions

1. If a director made a movie about your life, which actress (living or dead) would you like to portray you, and which one would more likely be cast?

Actress I would like to portray me? Why, Audrey Hepburn, of course. There I am on screen: slender, beautiful, and poised. The one most like to be cast? Okay, if I’m honest…Betty White.

2. What are some of the things that have changed in publishing since your first book was published?

Ha, my answer is EVERYTHING. My first book was typed on a typewriter (which is what all of us used at that time), I had to make Xerox copies to mail to the publisher, and any communication was done either by mail or phone. Back then (in the “olden” days), publishers actually promoted you. My first book was advertised in women’s magazines, and I was sent to a readers’ party. On the negative side, romance writers were considered part of Harlequin’s “stable” of writers. The Harlequin line was important, not the writer. Some writers had to change their name to one owned by Harlequin.

3. Us Weekly or Newsweek?

I really don’t know. I don’t read either. I barely find time to read the books assigned for the two book clubs I belong to, do research for what I’m writing, or actually write. Being “retired” doesn’t leave a lot of spare time.

4. As a reader, do you sneak a peek at the end of the book, or do you make yourself wait for answers until the very end?

Oh, I try not to. Really I do. But sometimes, when it’s late at night, and I know I can’t keep my eyes open any longer, and I just have to know who done it…I peek. But when my will power is stronger, I actually do force myself to wait until the very end.

5. Have you ever, even for a moment, forgotten that one of your characters was…you know…fictional?

They’re not real? Oh my gosh. Are you sure they’re not real?

6. In which genres and sub-genres are you published, and which others do you plan to add to the list in the next two years?

I started out writing straight romance, but I’ve always loved reading mysteries/suspense/thrillers, so some (quite a few) of my romances have a mystery or suspense included. Finally, I decided to switch to mysteries with a side story of romance. The book I have coming out this month (March 2017) is a thriller with barely a suggestion of romance. As for the next two years, I don’t know. Right now I’m working on a follow-up of my seventy-four-year-old widowed grandmother who was an assassin in her younger years and keeps getting called upon to use her skills.

7. Brad Pitt or David Beckham?

I’d take either, but at my age, Sean Connery or Harrison Ford are probably better matches. (Or maybe all four of these men?)

I think that would depend on the age of the reader. If she’s 20-50, I think she would love HEIRESS SEEKING PERFECT HUSBAND. Older than 50, I’m sure she would love A KILLER PAST.

9. Do you have a green thumb or black one, and, either way, how are you gearing up for spring planting season?

If you’re talking about house plants, I definitely have a black thumb. Outdoors, most plants manage to survive in spite of me (as long as the deer and rabbits don’t get them). I do love flowers, so I’ll be planting some in the small space we have around our condo.

10. When and how did you first decide you wanted to be an author?

I wanted to be a writer when I was twelve, but the English classes in high school and college discouraged me. I thought I never could write as well as the authors we were required to read. Then, when I was forty, trying to decide what I wanted to be when I grew up, I read a romantic suspense that was good, but not great, and I thought: I could write something like this. It took me almost four years, but I did it, and I’ve been writing ever since.

11. Antique Roadshow or Law & Order: SVU?

Again, decisions, decisions. I enjoy Antique Roadshow for the expressions on peoples’ faces when they find out how much something they’ve treated as junk is worth. I love Law & Order: SVU for the procedure and stories.

12. What is your favorite song of all time, and what do you do when it comes on the radio or when you stream it?

“Hotel California.” I don’t know why, but the moment that song comes on, I start smiling. And if I’m by myself, I start singing. (Which, considering I can’t carry a tune, is why I should be by myself.) Maybe it’s because I grew up in California. Maybe because…I really don’t know, but I love it.

13. What do you believe is your biggest strength as a writer, and what has been your approach to tackling some of your weaknesses?

Early on I was told I wrote good action scenes. My weakness is writing the love scenes. That’s probably one reason I have moved from writing romances to writing mysteries.

14. Regarding board games, Scrabble or Left, Right, Center?

I love Scrabble, but I’m a terrible speller, so I’d probably go for Left, Right, Center.

15. What is your biggest hope for a reader when she opens one of your books?

I hope the reader hates me at one a.m. when she knows she needs to put the book down and go to bed, but she just can’t stop reading.

***

Echoes of Terror

By Maris Soule

“He’s here,” Alice said, her voice barely above a whisper. “And wait ’til you see him.” She fanned herself, and grinned. “He wants to talk to the officer in charge. At the moment, that’s you.”

Katherine supposed with Gordon out of the building that was true. She also assumed this smoking hot “he” was the guy Crystal Morgan’s husband had sent.

She took a moment to straighten her uniform, then followed Alice back to the office area. Her first impression was that Crystal had been right; Vince Nanini did look like he could be a bodyguard. He certainly didn’t fit the computer geek stereotype. He had the bald head and swarthy complexion like Vin Diesel, but he was bigger than the actor. Not just in height, but in the width of his shoulders and the size of his biceps.

His white T-shirt stretched over a solid chest and flat abdomen, then disappeared beneath the waistline of a pair of tan khakis. Nikes covered his feet. He wore no jewelry, no heavy chains, rings, or earrings. Nothing custom made or terribly expensive, except, perhaps, for the watch on his right wrist. Katherine had a feeling it cost a small fortune. Definitely more than her trusty Timex.

“Mr. Nanini?” she said, holding out her hand.

He didn’t offer his.

“You’re the officer in charge?” The scowl he gave her was accompanied by a quick up-and-down look.

From behind the counter, Alice answered for her. “This is Officer Katherine Ward. Our chief is in the hospital, and Sergeant Landros is out of the office at the moment.”

“I am the officer handling this case,” Katherine added, letting her hand drop back to her side. She knew some men still held chauvinistic views about women police officers. She’d learned the best way to correct that was to take control. “May I see some identification?”

He pulled out a passport and a business card and handed her the two. “My partner and I specialize in computer security,” he said. “Tomoro Industries is one of our clients. Thomas Morgan, the president and owner of that business, is also a personal friend, which is why I’m here. It appears Mr. Morgan’s teenage daughter has run off with a guy she met through the Internet.”

“So I’ve heard.” Katherine looked at his business card—which identified him as Vincent Nanini, President of VR Protection Services—and then at his passport. Actually, his full name was Vincent Dominic Nanini, age thirty-eight, height six feet two and weight one-ninety. Those pounds were all muscle, from what she could see. His address was in Seattle, Washington.

She handed back his passport but kept the business card. “Crystal said you worked for the FBI. May I also see your badge?”

“I’m not an agent,” he said. “I did work for the bureau for a while as a consultant.”

“Are you presently with any law enforcement agency?”

“No, we—”

She waved off his explanation. “Then I’ll be asking the questions.”

***

ECHOES OF TERROR, a March 22, 2017 release from Five Star Publishing, will be available in e-book and hardcover form and may be pre-ordered from these retailers: Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Notice: Maris would like her fans to know that ECHOES OF TERROR is grittier than her P.J Benson Mysteries or even A KILLER PAST and may not appeal to all of her readers. – DN

***

About Maris

Maris Soule started her career writing romances (25 published, of which 2 were RITA finalists.) She then switched to writing mystery/suspense. So far she’s had 4 traditionally published. (3 in the P.J. Benson mystery series and 1 stand alone, A KILLER PAST). ECHOES OF TERROR, a thriller, will be her 30th book.

Originally from California, Maris graduated from U.C. Davis as an art major and received her secondary teaching credential from U.C. Berkeley. While attending U.C. Santa Barbara, Soule met and married her husband, and two years later, they moved to Climax, Michigan, where they raised two children and a slew of animals before ending up owning a boat and moving near Lake Michigan. Although Soule taught art and math for 8 years, reading and writing have always been her passion. She and her husband now divide their time between Michigan and Florida. She’s a member of RWA, MWA, Sisters-in-Crime, and Florida Writers Association.

For more information, visit her website, www.marissoule.com and her blog. Connect with her through these social media channels: Facebook profile, her Facebook author page, Twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.

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