Super Bowl ads #MFRWauthor

FootballWhile I didn’t watch the Super Bowl this year—except for the last 10 minutes or so to see the Chiefs win—I did see a few of those special Super Bowl ads.

Years ago, watching the ads created just for the year’s biggest football game was a treat. I know people who watched the game just to see the ads! Sadly (to me), the last few years have seen the politicization of almost everything, including the advertisements during the Super Bowl. WHY???? Can’t we leave one thing alone and just concentrate on being happy, a little crazy, and entertained? Can’t we just tear up as Busch and the Clydesdales honor our military, and can’t we groan a little over Doritos stupid, slapstick message and not have to worry about what side to take on the politically correct notions blasted into our living rooms? Whew! Rant over.

This year, from what I saw, we got back to that entertainment factor.

So the favorite Super Bowl ad I saw was for Alexa. I don’t have an Alexa and don’t want an Alexa, but I could appreciate the idea of what we would have done before it was available. What we did for “Alexa” through past ages was clever and made me laugh—just the kind of advertising I will remember! Thank you, Amazon!

Read the next blog in the blog hop by going here.

Dee
Burning Bridges by Anne Krist: old letters put the lie to Sara’s life. Now, mending her past mistakes while crossing burning bridges will be the hardest thing she’s ever done.

One Woman Only
Only a Good Man Will Do
Naval Maneuvers

Taking a Risk by Lyncee Shillard

Taking a Risk by Lyncee Shillard

Blurb:
If Leigh Ronaldson is one thing, it’s predictable. What’s wrong with having a routine? Apparently, it makes her boring or so her ex-boyfriend claimed as he dumped her. And her best friend agrees.

She decides to prove them wrong and books an extreme adventure in Ecuador. The hiking, kayaking, and camping she signed up for. She didn’t plan on the hot guide who by just looking at her made her squirm with desire and definitely not the drug cartel who wants them dead.

Nick Greco golden rule is never to touch a client. NEVER. But rules can’t be broken. Regardless of how hard he is.

Once the local drug cartel starts hunting them, he knows it will take all his skill to get out of the Amazon jungle alive. And if your life is hanging in the balance even golden rules can be broken…

Buy links:
Amazon KU
Universal link

Excerpt:
Where are they?” Ben asked. “What if they heard us and are on their way back?”

“Back to where?” Paul snarled. “We’re in the middle of the fucking Amazon. It’s not like it’s a three-block stroll to the nearest police station.” He turned and pointed down the trail. “We sunk their kayaks.”

Shit,” Nick silently cursed. They should have been more serious in handling the guys. The fact they had made it through customs without the drugs being detected should have made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. But he’d been too focused on Leigh.

Of course, Hector had arranged the entire thing as a way to entrap them into letting him use their business.

“They have gone nowhere. Their packs are still in the tent.” Hector kicked the food storage container over. “Nick, I know you can hear me.” The man grounded his heel into a package of noodles.

What had happened to Ty? How had the men escaped?

Lyncee ShillardLet’s meet Lyncee:

NA: What sort of research did you do to write this book?
LS: The animals of the Amazon and the Amazon river kayaking.

NA: What is the main thing you want readers to take away from your book? LS: That you need to love yourself and then other people will love you

NA: A fun fact about writing your book.
LS: That I bought 20 small packages of M&M’s. I opened them up to divide them into groups by color because my character starts every month with 20 bags of M&M’s that she does this with and then assigns each day of the week a color. She was peeved because green only had 10 so every Thursday she could only eat 3 M&M’s.

NA: Do you have a day job?
LS: Not any longer, I have guardianship of an amazing 8-year-old that suffers from serve trauma, so I spend my time hanging out with him.

NA: What was your job before you started writing full time?
LS: I worked in an inner-city school. The lives of some of these kiddos broke my heart and still haunt me.

NA: What started you on the path to writing?
LS: My daytime job. I needed an escape from reality so I created my own worlds. Where I could kill people that frustrated me and gave people a happy ever after ending.

NA: Do you outline books ahead of time or are you more of a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer?
LS: Total seat of my pants. I have a general idea of what I want to happen but I have no idea how many people will die only that people will die…And there will be steamy sex.

NA: Do you have quirky writing habits?
LS: I write in a lot of different places – the lobby of my 8 year old therapy, at the kitchen table while he’s doing school, etc so sometimes I have trouble getting into the ‘zone’ so I start every writing time with the You Tube – Disney’s Top 10 Villains Songs. it’s about 25 minutes and it sets the mood for creating killers, romance, and happy ever after endings 😊

NA: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
LS: Of course, reading but I think that goes for all writers and I consider that part of my ‘writing time.’ I love to cook – in January I started Keto full time and I post the recipes and what I think on my blog. But my true passion which is also related to writing is journaling.

I have a side business – Writing with Crayons – that I do prompts that help people start down a path of self-discovery. I also do workshops in journaling. The key thing everyone needs to remember about journaling is that it’s not just a negative dumping ground then it loses it’s effectiveness.

NA: A pet peeve.
LS: That doughnuts aren’t calorie free

NA: First thought when the alarm goes off in the in the morning?
LS: I can’t remember the last time I set an alarm. My 8-year-old is up by 4:30 every morning regardless of what time I put him to bed, and no one needs to be up before that… and my first thought is “why doesn’t this child sleep…”

NA: What famous person would you like to have dinner with?
LS: Matthew Mcconaughey – Not just because I have a crush on him, but I really love listening to his motivational speeches and I enjoy most of movies.

NA: What are you working on now?
LS: A series of novella called Adrenaline Rush. It will be 3 novellas featuring men whose lifestyle falls into the adrenaline rush category and they must used those risk taking abilities to save someone they love.

NA: What is any question we didn’t ask that you would like to answer?
LS: If I could pack us up and moved anywhere, where would that be? An alpaca farm in New Zealand.

New! A Mermaid's Wish by Lyncee ShillardNew from Lyncee Shillard

About Lyncee:
I live in the cold Northern Michigan (the place of four seasons – they lie! It’sLyncee Shillard just different levels of winter) with my husband. Our children have begun their own adventures, and just as I got into the swing of empty nest, then my grandson came to live with us. Now I’m doing 8 again… they argue everything just case you forgot. And I now remember why I eat doughnuts and drink vodka. 😊

When I’m not hanging out with the 8-year-old, I’m writing, reading, crocheting, and making self-care products. I’m a planner babe and vodka wizard. I also enjoy taking pictures, I’m not claiming to have a talent it’s just something I like to do.

Come and hang out with me…we will talk doughnuts, vodka, and planners…Blog
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Book Bub

Out Now—FEISTY (Do-Over Series Book 3) by Julia Kent

Feisty by Julia Kent

Feisty

AN ALL-NEW STANDALONE FROM NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR JULIA KENT

I’m not too proud to admit that finding Mr. Right involves swiping right. Right? Welcome to dating in avocado toastland.

Here I am, on my first blind date, ever, courtesy of a smartphone app and my two annoying best friends.

So what is Chris “Fletch” Fletcher doing, walking across the room, looking at his phone like he’s pattern matching a picture to find a real person he’s never met before?

Oh.

Oh, no.

The guy I drop-kicked in seventh grade cannot be my blind date. The guy who earned me this infernal nickname.

That’s right.

Feisty.
———

Feisty by Julia Kent

More from New York Times bestselling author Julia Kent as Fiona “Feisty” Gaskill gets her chance at love—drop-kick included.

Other Standalone Books in the Series:

Little Miss Perfect
Fluffy
Perky 

Buy links:

Amazon (all countries) 
Google Play 
Kobo 
BN/Nook 
Apple Books 
BookBub 
Goodreads

Audiobook narrated by Erin Mallon:

Audible 
Amazon Audio 
iTunes: Coming Soon

Feisty by Julia Kent

Excerpt

“Why are you suddenly meddling in my life like you know me? Because you don’t,” I inform him, moving closer, one hand rising up, my index finger pointing as I assume a power stance that seems otherworldly. Some self inside me is coming to the forefront.

And she has something to say.

Two of the people at his table turn and look at us, then start whispering. Fletch’s eyes cut over.

“Can we talk in private?” he asks.

“Why? Afraid of being called out in public?”

“No, but you’re about to get a bunch of cellphones pulled out. You really want more recordings of you floating around on the internet?”

I spin on my heel and move to the hallway in what I think is the direction of the bathrooms. Paleo2Clean is new to me, but before this incarnation, it was a soup restaurant, and before that, a froyo place.

Yep. Guessed right. High chairs and bathrooms.

“Look, Fletch,” I say, grabbing his arm hard. “Until our reunion last year, I hadn’t seen you in forever. And when Mal and Will chose us both to be in their wedding, I wasn’t happy, but I plastered on a fake smile because that’s what you do when your friends are getting married and you used to hate one of the groomsmen.”

“Hate?” A smile tickles his lips, his amusement infuriating me more than any other response he could possibly have. “You,” he says, looking at my hand on his skin, taking a step closer into my space, “hate me?”

“No. I said I used to hate you. Before I worked on evolving and being a better human being.”

“How, exactly, have you done that?”

“By increasing my vibration.”

“You are a better person because you use vibrators?”

“Who said anything about sex toys?”

“You did. Just now.”

“No, I didn’t! I said vibrations!”

“What’s the difference?”

“Enlightenment!”

“Pretty sure enlightenment comes from enough orgasms, too, Fiona.”

An espresso machine hisses in the distance, cutting through the sound of our matched breath. He’s inches from me, heat pulsing off his rock-hard body, the close-fitting black cloth of his shirt rippling only because of curved muscle. My hand on his arm feels like heat itself, our bodies some sort of element that conducts energy on a wavelength science hasn’t discovered yet.

And I’m wet, wanting, and so, so confused.

“Why are you turning this conversation into a sex talk?” I finally choke out, pulling back as he leans in.

“You started it,” he replies, the smile fading, replaced by something intensely seductive. He bites his lower lip for a moment, looking at me. Then, in a whisper that makes me lean in to hear, he adds, “Maybe you wouldn’t hate me so much if I helped you with those vibrations.”

Feisty by Julia Kent

Author Bio:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julia Kent writes romantic comedy with an edge. Since 2013, she has sold more than 2 million books, with 4 New York Times bestsellers and more than 19 appearances on the USA Today bestseller list. Her books have been translated into French and German, with more titles releasing in 2020 and beyond.

From billionaires to BBWs to new adult rock stars, Julia finds a sensual, goofy joy in every contemporary romance she writes. Unlike Shannon from Shopping for a Billionaire, she did not meet her husband after dropping her phone in a men’s room toilet (and he isn’t a billionaire she met in a romantic comedy).

She lives in New England with her husband and three children where she is the only person in the household with the gene required to change empty toilet paper rolls.

Social Media Links:

Website: http://jkentauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jkentauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jkentauthor
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/2PIBi9n
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkentauthor/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/julia-kent
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3238619.Julia_Kent
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Julia-Kent/e/B00A99V268/

Writer Marketing ServicesRelease blitz organized by Writer Marketing Services.

Don’t Drop the Baby! (Sounds like good advice) by Linda O’Connor

Don't Drop the Baby by Linda O'ConnorDon’t Drop the Baby (Dr. Brogan Corkie Matchmaking Doctor Book 1)
Genre Medical Romantic Comedy — PG

Blurb
Dr. Brogan Corkie is happily semi-retired from medicine and now has time for other hobbies. Her passion for food is only second to her skill at matchmaking!

Ross Skye, owner of BabyCare, a high-end line of baby merchandise, is injured in an accident, and Brogan uses her cooking, medical – and matchmaking – skills to help him out. Dr. Lauren Kane is taking care of her nephew for two weeks, and Brogan agrees to babysit while Lauren is at work.

Two years ago, Ross and Lauren dated. At that time, Lauren wanted kids, but Ross wasn’t keen. Now the tables have turned, and Ross is trying to convince Lauren that they’d make an awesome parenting team. Brogan suggests they test drive parenthood by looking after a simulated baby for a week – a computerized version that eats, sleeps, wets, and cries. Ross and Lauren experience the “joy” of having a newborn firsthand, and the bar is set pretty low. Their first goal is: don’t drop the baby. The second goal is to find out if their love for each other will survive the test of…parenting.

Excerpt from Don’t Drop the Baby
Her phone rang and she picked it up eagerly when she saw her daughter’s name on the call display. “Hi love, how are you?”

“On a scale of one to ten, I’d have to say ten.”

Brogan smiled. When the kids were teenagers, they’d roll their eyes when Brogan switched hats from mom to doctor and asked them to rate their pain or mood on a scale of one to ten. Later on it became a running family joke and everything from the weather to vegetables to their opinion of their sibling’s date was fair game.

“How are things with you, Mom? How’s the retirement test going?”

“Also a ten out of ten. I’ve slipped into my new career like a fish to water. I couldn’t be happier.”

“Nice. I’m sure a lot of patients are missing you, but you’ve earned the break. Are you managing to keep busy?”

“Yes. My freezer was overflowing, but I’ve got my very first customer.”

“Good gracious. Someone’s paying you to cook?”

“Mae honey, have a little faith. Some people enjoy my cooking.”

Mae laughed. “I guess the bright side is you can treat them if something goes wrong. Not many chefs can boast that.”

Brogan chuckled reluctantly. “The advantage of keeping my license up.”

“What are you catering?”

“I’m the in-house chef for a young man.”

Silence. “Excuse me?”

“Jess’s nephew was in an accident and fractured his arm and leg. I’m getting his meals and keeping an eye on him.”

“Jess’s nephew? You’re telling me that you’re living with multi-millionaire Ross Skye, CEO of BabyCare, who recently walked away from the crash of his private helicopter with a broken arm and leg?”

Brogan frowned. “Helicopter? I didn’t realize. I’d assumed it was his car. But either way, yes.” She paused. “Although I highly doubt he walked away from it.”

“He’s an experienced pilot. Apparently there was some mechanical problem, and his skill saved him. The crash was pretty spectacular. It was caught on video and plastered all over social media. He’s lucky to be alive.”
That might explain the trouble sleeping.

“He could afford the best of the best,” Mae continued. “How did you get involved?”

Brogan pursed her lips and tried to overlook the insult. “Jess asked me to drop off a few meals for his freezer, and I offered to help.”

“Just like that?”

“Just like that.”

“Does he know you’re a doctor? Has he asked you to prescribe something illegal for him? Narcotics? Benzos?”

Brogan sighed audibly. “Relax, Mae. I do know what I’m doing.”

“The fact that you’re staying at his house seems a little sketchy. A one out of ten, Mom,” Mae said with a grunt. “Does Finn know about this?”

“Something tells me he will shortly,” Brogan said wryly. “I appreciate your concern, but there’s no need for it. I’m having fun.”

“That’s what concerns me!”

Brogan laughed. “I love you, dear. Say hello to Lori for me and don’t worry.”
Mae sighed. “Love you, Mom. Be careful.”

Brogan smiled and hung up the phone. Kids – can’t live with ’em, can’t live without ’em.

Buy link Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0847SFBFV

Let’s find out about Linda and Don’t Drop the Baby

NA: How did you come up with the idea for your book/A fun fact about writing your book.
LO’C: I’m so excited to introduce a new series – Dr. Brogan Corkie, Matchmaking Doctor. I’ve been busy working on this series for the past year. I originally had the idea for this story two years ago. I’m a physician, and I work at an Urgent Care Clinic. I frequently see patients with infectious illnesses and advise them to stay home from school or work until they’re no longer contagious. Sometimes it’s difficult for working parents to find care for their sick children – often they just can’t take a day off and it’s nearly impossible to find a caregiver willing to look after a child who is ill. It also isn’t easy for someone living on their own to cope when they don’t feel well. I thought caring for the sick when they are temporarily ill would make a great job for a retired doctor, since a doctor wouldn’t be daunted by the illness. That’s how Dr. Brogan Corkie’s character was born.

Initially, I was going to have her look after the sick in their homes and then bring two people together in that context. But when I started writing, I ended up giving Brogan a hobby – she enjoys cooking and catering for people and that became her second career. She uses her cooking know-how, her medical knowledge – and her matchmaking skills – to care for other people. I “upgraded” her M.D. from Medical Doctor to Matchmaking Doctor. Brogan is the romantic catalyst – she brings couples together and then through good advice and a warm heart she weaves her magic to make love happen. And throughout the series, Brogan’s own heart gets tangled up in romance, too! Medicine – it truly is a work of heart.

NA: What sort of research did you do to write this book?
LO’C: I don’t usually do much research for my books – the medicine part is easy for me, and I write contemporary romances, so I don’t need to check history facts. I can focus on writing!

NA: What started you on the path to writing?
LO’C: I’m a physician, and I started writing because I wanted to find a fun way to disseminate medical information and to educate and empower readers to take ownership of their health. Targeting a female audience with romance novels seemed like a good idea because women are usually the ones who see a doctor. (Males typically only go when a girlfriend/partner/spouse/mom encourages them to do so. :D)

I write romantic comedies because I love being in a fun headspace when I’m writing, and I weave the best parts of medicine into my stories. Laughter is essential to great health and nothing is better than a happily-ever-after ending!

NA: What do your friends and family think about your writing?
LO’C: My family supports me in the sweetest ways – helping me promote with social media or buying thoughtful writing gifts for my birthday. The funniest thing with respect to my family was my choice of characters for the first book. I wanted the female character to deliver a baby unexpectedly, out of the hospital setting, so I knew she was going to be an obstetrician-gynecologist. I was trying to write what I know – and my husband is an ophthalmologist. I know the medical terminology related to the eye specialty and have a good sense of the job through him, so naturally, it made sense to make the male character an ophthalmologist. It wasn’t until I hosted a release party for my book that I realized how much ribbing he was getting as a result of that (and the sexy scenes in the book). Oops!

NA: Do you outline books ahead of time or are you more of a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer?
LO’C: Before I start to write a story I have a rough idea of the beginning, middle, and the ending, but I don’t plot out the whole thing. I do make a detailed description of the characters. And I can’t start writing until I’ve nailed down the characters’ names. The male names are the hardest because I have 3 sons, and they have a lot of friends. The name can’t remind me of anyone I know.

NA: What has been one of your most rewarding experiences as an author?
LO’C: The most rewarding experience has been meeting new people – in person and online. It has been so much fun talking to other writers and readers, and I’ve been invited to a few book club meetings, which I love!

NA: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
LO’C: I love to dance. I’ve been doing Zumba for years, and I recently started Scottish Country dancing. It is so much fun!

NA: A pet peeve
LO’C: People who take up two spots when they parallel park. I always wish I had a super strength superpower to fix them.

NA: Why did you choose the shirt you have on?
LO’C: I’m wearing a cozy sweater – because it’s cold outside and it keeps me toasty warm inside.

NA: First thought when the alarm goes off in the in the morning?
LO’C: I’m glad I set that alarm ten minutes early, so I can stay under the covers for another few minutes.

NA: What are you working on now?
LO’C: I’m editing the third book and writing the fourth book of the Dr. Brogan Corkie Matchmaking Doctor series. The fourth book will be a Christmas romantic comedy!

NA: What books will we see from you in coming months?
LO’C: I’ll be releasing Don’t Forget the Dog, Book 2, and Don’t Unravel the Past, Book 3 of the Dr. Brogan Corkie Matchmaking Doctor series in May 2020 and August 2020 respectively. And I’ll release Book 4 in November. Can’t wait!

Bio
Linda O'ConnorAward-winning author Linda O’Connor started writing romantic comedies when she needed a creative outlet other than subtly rearranging the displays at a local home décor store. Her books have enjoyed bestseller status. When not writing, she’s a physician at an Urgent Care Clinic. She shares her medical knowledge in fast-paced, well-written, sexy romances – with an unexpected twist. Her favourite prescription to write? Laugh every day. Love every minute.

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The political climate #MFRWauthor

DisagreementsNo one who lives in the U.S. can be unaware of our current toxic political climate. It’s gotten to the point where people can be attacked for the hat they wear, or an argument can occur between strangers over a candidate’s plan for health care. Know what it is? It’s ridiculous, is what it is. When did we stop being a country where people could disagree without fear of fistfights? When did people stop mattering less than being “right?”

I admit, I’ve gotten to the age where I don’t care as much what other folks think of me. But even I wouldn’t go outside the house wearing a red ballcap—even if it was just a red ball cap and carried no message. Discuss politics? I wouldn’t mention it to a stranger. In the past, politics might bring on a few sneers or a dismissal, or a spirited discussion. Today, a disagreement over our government can land you in the hospital.

However…when it comes to family, I share my thoughts.

My parents were always a little more conservative than my grandparents. American politicsMom and Dad usually voted for the candidate who supported the military more. My grandmother was a die-hard Democrat, a union steward in the plant where she worked, and had strong opinions she would voice anywhere about who should be running things. Contrary to most of my contemporaries who grew up during the Vietnam War, I leaned more toward my parents’ views than the revolutionaries’. Now, my mom leans more toward her mother—less conservative and more progressive. Do we battle it out during phone calls? Yes. Do we still love each other? YES! We’re family and we love each other despite any comments about the elections.

I wish everyone were more that way. Share your opinions, go home as friends. As it is, I discuss politics with my family, but not with friends. I value my friendships much more than I value making a point over something I have little control over anyway.

Read the next blog in the blog hop by going here.

Dee
Burning Bridges by Anne Krist: old letters put the lie to Sara’s life. Now, mending her past mistakes while crossing burning bridges will be the hardest thing she’s ever done.

One Woman Only
Only a Good Man Will Do
Naval Maneuvers

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Christian Romance: 2020’s Stress Relief Lit of Choice

Indivisible Hearts by Cece WhittakerSometimes, you just feel like reading something warming and happy, a book that leaves you upbeat and inspired. Most of the news sounds like copy from a bad gossip column, so finding a good book to read or listen to seems like a better bet. A good choice for those who want pleasure reading to be fun might be Christian Romance (sometimes called Inspirational Romance) or Christian Historical Romance.

Traditional and current definitions
Nikki DeMarco of Book Riot describes Christian romance as “novels [that] are love stories that have either overt or subtle Christian beliefs throughout.” Goodreads, though, comes closer to my idea of the genre; “Characters behave according to Christian tenets, eschewing alcohol, profanity and lying, and any sexual content is hinted at or avoided entirely to instead focus on the more tender aspects of love and romance.” In other words, in this genre, you’re not reading about Christian ideas, you’re simply enjoying a book that travels within them.

The escape factor?
The result is often superb. Readers who enjoy series books—the literary equivalent to network streaming—find a traveling refuge in the continual friendly reappearance of people and places without concerns about negotiating the sudden appearance of a bloody body part or being placed in the midst of an alcoholic orgy. But more importantly, the Christian Romance genre frequently features humor, ranging from subtle and highbrow to earthy or slapstick, which really delivers the mental holiday. “I always feel better for the experience,” says Ronnie, an avid reader of humor and romance. “Once I switched to reading Christian romance, I never left.”

Finding books
It’s no secret that Amazon has lots and lots of books for sale and lend. In doing a search in the Amazon books category, using simply Christian Romance Humor, I found hundreds of very interesting reads, most of them only a few dollars on Kindle or $12 or less for the paperback. Kobo, a Canadian-based book sales company also has a very wide selection of written and audiobooks. They have a sub-search arrangement, which is less familiar to many searchers, so I’ve included the link to the Christian Romance category. There are many other online and in-store sellers, one of my favorites being BAM (Books A Million). BAM is one of the few brick & mortar retailers that has found a way to prosper with a good balance of online and in-store sales. It’s a wonderful place to browse and find good reading.

On those days where finances, family, or any other kind of struggle is stressing you out, even if it’s just pouring rain or pounding snow, ice, and wind, a Christian Romance novel might be just the right medicine. – Cece Whittaker

Cece WhittakerCece Whittaker is a Christian Romance writer who lives at the southern New Jersey coast. She has created the Serve Series, stories that take place during the 1940s, featuring four women whose antics and romances are as entertaining as they are involved with caring for others. Cece’s website, naturally enough is www.CeceWhittakerStories.com.

You never forget your first #MFRWHooks

Impatient Passion was my first book, published in 2003 on Valentine’s Day. I had no idea what I was doing–I was just trying to “write a book.” I did it in a month, sent it to Liquid Silver Books (in the process of folding now, sadly), and they accepted it. I was bitten by the writing bug, for better or worse! 🙂

This is a blog hop. Click the link at the bottom and see what other authors are posting!

IMpatient Passion by Dee S. Knight

Blurb:

Austin D. Gardner, an award winning web designer in San Francisco, has just faced the fact that she is going to turn thirty-five years old on Saturday and her life is nowhere near what she dreamed it would be. She needs to make big changes.

On the crowded bus trip home, Austin is pushed into a man. Instead of trying to move away, he pulls her to him. Austin is shocked at first, but then lets fate take her by the hand. An anonymous adventure on a crowded bus might be a safe way to break out of the dull life she is living.

Tyler Birch spent years waiting for Austin to give some indication she would welcome getting to know him better, but time is up. He decided Monday to stop being passive. That afternoon he finds himself pressed against her on the crowded bus trip home. Not one to turn down an opportunity when he’s presented with one, Tyler accepts the chance to mount a two-pronged plan of attack. One as the anonymous stranger who can set Austin  fire with his touch, and the other as Tyler Birch who can touch her soul.

MFRW Book Hooks

Excerpt:

In the years Austin had worked for Bay Web, her contact with Tyler had been limited, just the way she liked it. She glanced at him and found he was looking at her.

“You look as though you’re having a conversation with yourself. Want to tell me what about?” The look he gave Austin was open, friendly.

“No.”

He grimaced at her terse response. “Fair enough.” Tyler got up and closed the door, which worried Austin. She had never been alone in a closed room with any of the staff there. Even Henry, when he was arguing with her over designs, left the door open. What was this about?

“Ms. Gardner, or Austin, if I may call you that?” She nodded, and he gave a half smile. “Austin, you’ve been working on the Ron Morris project haven’t you? How do you think it’s coming?”

“I’ll have it ready for Henry to look at by end of day Wednesday. That should give him plenty of time to familiarize himself before Friday’s presentation. Is there a problem?”

“No. How do you feel the work is going? I guess what I mean is, how do you feel about what you’ve done?”

“Good. I think I’ve captured what Mr. Morris wants, and I think he’ll be happy with the results. Why? What’s going on? I’ve given Henry the preliminary drafts.”

“Yes, and he showed them to us at the executive meeting this morning.” He stopped and regarded her with a frank expression. “I’ll get right to the point. Austin, I want you to handle the presentation on Friday. Can you do it?” Tyler leaned back in his chair, crossed his legs and tapped his fingertips together, forming a steeple with his hands.

Austin was stunned. Presenting her own work to the client was not something she had ever done. In fact, not being able to do so had irritated her more than once, because she felt Henry might not have given her work the pitch he should have. She knew that part of being a backbench employee was being behind the camera, so to speak, not up where the client action was.

However, this account was really important to her, and she had hated the thought of turning it over to Henry, especially since he hadn’t shown much enthusiasm for her ideas. He wanted flash and lots of action on the screen instead of her more unadventurous, calm design. She quickly made up her mind. She looked up to see Tyler staring at her, quietly waiting for her response. “Yes, I can do it.”

“Good. I hoped you would say that. I liked your prelims and I think you can best explain them to Morris.”

“My only concern is Henry. This won’t go over too well with him.”

“Let me worry about that. Now,” he said as he uncrossed his legs and leaned forward. He rested his elbows on the desk and looked at her intently. “I hope you won’t take this the wrong way. I know we’re a very casual company-this is California, after all, and what’s California if not casual? But for this level of client dealing, I like the staff to be a bit more formal. No offense, but you look like the college kids out there.” He waved vaguely toward the cubicle area. “I’d like you to represent the adult side of the firm on Friday. Will you come in to work dressed a little more formally and with a different hair style?”

Austin bristled, and Tyler could obviously tell. “Now, don’t go getting all huffy. This isn’t anything I wouldn’t ask of a man if he normally came in every day dressed for the beach.” Austin opened her mouth and he held up his hand. “Which you don’t. That’s not what I meant.”

“If you don’t mind my asking, what exactly is wrong with how I look?”
Tyler stood and walked around his desk. He took her hands in his and forced her to stand. Austin was struck speechless as he casually appraised her, front and back, then motioned for her to sit again and went back to his chair. He leaned back and looked at her, still saying nothing.

Tyler sat quietly because, truth be told, he couldn’t speak quite yet. He thought Austin was beautiful. Had thought so since she started working there, but had been very careful never to reveal his thoughts. She had gorgeous blonde hair that she kept in a horrid braid. If it was loose, falling over him… He cleared his throat and forced his mind off of that track.
“With how you look? Nothing. With how you dress? Plenty. Bagginess is fine for sitting in a cubicle in front of a computer screen, but not for client presentations.” Tyler saw Austin tense and a flush spread up her neck and across her face, but he continued. “You have very nice hair, but this is a San Francisco business, not Little House on the Prairie. Something a little more suitable to your age and responsibility would be good.”

Austin caught her breath, and Tyler saw her eyes sparkle with tears. Fortunately, they didn’t fall, but he immediately softened his tone. Leaning forward, he said a little more gently, “You have beautiful skin and you’re one of the few women I know who doesn’t need makeup. Your eyes are amazing, even behind those gosh awful glasses you wear to see the computer screen. But tennis shoes don’t go with the image I have of the corporation, Austin.”

He looked at her steadily, and saw that she had control of her emotions. No tears for her, he thought. She’s pretty brave to sit through this and not lose it. He tempered his criticism with the next statements. “You’re a valuable employee. Your work is excellent and has brought the company recognition. I take you seriously, and I want others to take you seriously too.” He could see that his last words had an effect on her.

He lowered his head slightly and regarded her through his lashes. “I don’t mean to be harsh. For here at the office your regular dress is okay. If it’s a problem making a few changes for Friday, I understand. But I really wanted you to handle the presentation.”

There it was. The challenge. Would she give in to his request or give up control of her work? “I’ll do it,” she said in a low voice. “Is that all?”

Buy link: Amazon

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Folds of Honor: Charity Sunday

Charity SundayHow Charity Sunday works: for every comment made on this blog post, I will donate money to the charity named. The same promise is made for every blog site listed in the group–click the Linky Links link at the bottom of this post to see the list of participants and read/comment on any of them to see a donation go to that blogger’s charity. We’re all different! Thanks for your help and your participation!


This month’s charity is Folds of Honor. The mission of Folds of Honor is: “To provide educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service-members. … Honor their sacrifice. Educate their legacy.” So this charity helps two ways that are near and dear to my heart—it helps give people who need the boost an education they might not be able to afford, and it honors those who have given much. Please comment!

Folds of Honor

I wrote Burning Bridges as Anne Krist. It’s not an erotic romance, but it’s a book full of emotion and is a true love story. The hero, Paul Steinert, is in the Navy and about to ship out for Vietnam when he first meets Sara Noland. Perhaps his child could have benefited from Folds of Honor!

Excerpt:

Virginia Beach, Virginia – January, 1970

“Of all days to debate about whether to wear the short skirt or the shorter one,” Sara wailed to her best friend, Cindy. “We’ll be lucky if we aren’t late.”

The blue Volkswagen Beetle sped down the highway. Or as fast as it could speed, with the tiny engine pushing from the rear, and Sara having to shift gears so often because of traffic and lights. She huffed in frustration.

“Oh, we have plenty of time. I had to make sure I looked just right. You never know who we’ll see,” Cindy replied with her usual assurance.

“I hope you’re right.”

“You worry, Sara, and things always turn out okay. Just keep your mind on driving and we’ll be fine.” Cindy clasped her hands and shrieked with excitement. “I can’t believe our parents bought us tickets to see Michael Wales!”

That brought a real smile to Sara’s face. “I know! Our parents are the best.”

She flicked a knob on the radio as she veered into the parking lot, silencing Neil Diamond’s “Holly Holy.”

“See? I told you. You worry too much. We’re here with a good ten minutes to spare.” Cindy flipped her straight blonde hair over her shoulder. She turned the rearview mirror toward her and applied a fresh coating of lip gloss.

“We’re only ‘here’ if I can find a place to park.” Sara maneuvered her little car up one aisle and down another, until finally, “Good! There’s one.” Before she could get to the space, a sleek, red Corvette swung in.

“Oh, no! That was our space,” Cindy cried.

Two men unfolded themselves from the little sports car, the driver with olive skin and hair as dark as the passenger’s was golden. The men started toward the building. Suddenly, the passenger looked at Sara and then back at the space.

The low-hanging sun framed him, a fair giant with short hair and the physique of a warrior. For a brief moment, Sara pictured him with sword and shield at the helm of a Norse sailing vessel. Her heart fluttered and her breath caught. Then she brought herself under control.

The girls watched as he talked to the dark-haired man and gestured to them. The driver looked around then shook his head before continuing toward the building. The blond shrugged apologetically at Sara and followed his friend.

“Shoot! I thought maybe he would have a heart.” Sara eased off the clutch and started forward again.

“They were cute.” Cindy swerved in her seat to watch the men as they picked their way through the parked cars. “I wonder what the chances are of seeing them–”

A piercing whistle cut through Cindy’s words. “Stop, Sara! The blond guy is waving at us.”

Sara turned to look behind them. The blond man was indeed waving, gesturing for her to come toward him. “What does he want?” she muttered. Deciding to ignore him, she drove on, turning to the right.

He whistled again.

“He wants you to pull around there. He’s still waving.”

“Oh, all right,” Sara grumbled. “But make sure your door is locked, Cindy. And don’t roll your window down.”

Cindy laughed. “You sound like my mother. What do you think is going to happen right here in the parking lot?”

Sara managed a U-turn and drove to where the man stood. Rolling her window down an inch, she said loudly, “What is it?”

He bent down to peer through the glass at her, a lopsided grin on his face. Good Lord, he was cute. Muscled shoulders and arms, angular, strong features, hair a rich blond, and dark, sapphire-blue eyes.

“Oh, my heavens,” she heard Cindy say under her breath.

For once, Sara understood her friend’s meaning. His grin made her stomach do flip-flops and her palms sweat.

“I don’t bite,” he said around a chuckle, motioning to the almost closed window. “I just wanted to tell you, there’s a place right over there. I think you can squeeze your Bug into it.” He turned and pointed at a half space at the end of the aisle, a couple of cars away.

Flashing him a look of gratitude, she put the little car in gear and pulled into the spot. The tall, handsome stranger followed.

When Sara turned off the engine, the guy opened the door for Cindy and held out his hand to assist her. Out of nowhere, a sharp pang of jealousy struck Sara. Its intensity and suddenness disturbed her. After all, she didn’t know this man; what difference did it make if he and Cindy hit it off?

By the time she collected her purse, stepped out and made sure the doors were locked, Cindy and the mystery man were like old friends. Again she felt the Green Monster strike, and gave a mental shake to rid herself of its clutches.

“Sara,” Cindy said, smiling dreamily at the tall man, “this is Paul Steinert. Wasn’t he just wonderful, finding us this space?” She tittered.

It was all Sara could manage, not to gape. Cindy always flirted but tittering was something new.

“Paul, this is my best friend, Sara Noland.”

Paul smiled and held out his hand. “Hello, Sara. I’m sorry about the other space. This one is closer to the door, though.”

She locked gazes with him and her tongue twisted in her mouth. Surges of heat flew through her body. If his smile had that effect, what would his touch do to her? Something wonderful.

No, something forbidden.

Buy or Read for free on KU

About me:

A few years ago, Dee S. Knight began writing, making getting up in the morning fun. During the day, her characters killed people, fell in love, became drunk with power, or sober with responsibility. And they had sex, lots of sex. She is the primary persona of three pen names—triplets, if you will: Dee, Anne Krist, and Jenna Stewart.

As noted above, Dee S. Knight writes erotic romance—emphasis on the romance! She was part of an anthology named a Top Pick in Romantic Times magazine (Resolutions) and the sole author of another Top Pick designation, for the paranormal erotic romance, Passionate Destiny.

“Sister” Anne Krist does not write erotic romance. Her book, Burning Bridges, has received high praise and multiple 5-star reviews because of the depth of the romance and emotion. Burning Bridges is Anne’s first book but she has a series planned that she hopes to have out soon.

Third of the triplets is Jenna Stewart. Jenna has tried her hand at ménage—in both historical and shifter books. She wrote the Sisters O’Ryan series set during the westward migration in the U.S., the Great Wolves of Men-Edge, and Unlikely Bedfellows.

Regardless of the name she uses to write during the day, their dream man, childhood sweetheart, and long-time hubby are all the same guy. What happens during their nights are their secret.

For romance ranging from sweet to historical, contemporary to paranormal and more join the girls on Nomad Authors. Sign up for Dee’s newsletter with Jan Selbourne and have access to fun free reads. Also, once a month, look for Charity Sunday blog posts, where your comment can support a selected charity.

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Best friends #MFRWauthor

I’m lucky enough to have three best friends: my mom, my husband, and my actual BFF, a girl I met the first few days of college. Mom and Jack are my best friends for various reasons, and I’ve talked about both of them before in these blog posts. Now I want to tell you about my friend Caddy.

Fredericksburg, VirginiaTo set the stage, I attended Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia (now University of Mary Washington), in Fredericksburg, Virginia. At that time, sooooo many years ago, the University of Virginia was all male. The exception were those women who had majors that had to finish in Charlottesville, like nursing majors. If you were a woman and wanted to attend UVA, you went to the girls’ branch, Mary Washington. All female, when I attended, we were just a couple of years way from having to wear a skirt or dress when leaving the dorm and being forbidden from getting into a car with a male without a chaperone.

Yes, hard to believe, but back then, when a date—or even parents—arrived to pick you up, they were stopped in the dorm lobby and an announcement was made to the hall where the girl resided. The announcer said either that the girl had a “visitor” (parents or a non-male) or a “caller” (a date!). When we went off campus with either type, we had to put a note in a box by the front desk saying who with, where, a phone number where we could be reached (no cell phones back then!), and the approximate time we would be back. The dorm doors were locked at midnight, and the box was then opened by the dorm “mother” so she could see if anyone was still out. Believe me, you tried your level best not to be locked out!

It was a very different age, and you know what? We didn’t mind it. In fact, there was a feeling of safety to it all that girls don’t have in schools now. That was the environment Caddy and I met. We didn’t have cars, so we walked downtown and we ate almost every meal on campus. It fostered friendships.

Long story long, we met in the first week at school. She lived one door downBest friends on the hall. Her roommate had immediately christened her Caddy, based on her initials, and that’s what we all called her. She was tall and kind of willowy where I was stubby and not willowy at all. She had naturally curly auburn hair (that took forever to dry) and a fair Irish complexion. We hit it off right away, partially, I’m sure, because she didn’t go home very often and neither did I. She had (still has) a wickedly sharp sense of humor, an amazing intellect, and one of the kindest hearts I’ve ever known. She’s very loyal to her friends but she’s not a pushover. She loves her family fiercely, and she’s a damn hard worker.

So, what do I think is the best trait for being a BFF? Hmmm. That’s hard. Maybe loyalty. It’s that loyalty that allows the closeness to know her sharp humor and the hard work and the kindness that’s tempered common sense. All in all, Caddy is a remarkable woman and an even more remarkable friend, and I’m grateful that she’s been part of my life.

Who is your best friend and why?

Read the next blog in the blog hop by going here.

Dee
Burning Bridges by Anne Krist: Old letters put the lie to Sara’s life. Now, mending past mistakes while crossing burning bridges will be the hardest thing she’s ever done.

One Woman Only
Only a Good Man Will Do
Naval Maneuvers

Lost Letters, lost love #MFRWhooks

Burning Bridges by Anne Krist

Blurb:

Consider the role of strangers in our lives. An unknown postman in Virginia hides a bag of mail one day. His simple action set in motion untold consequences for many others—strangers—all over the country. How many bridges were burned in that forgotten mail pouch?

Sara Richards’s world is rocked when three love letters from 1970 are delivered decades late. The letters were written by Paul Steinert, a young sailor who took her innocence with whispered words of love and promises of forever before leaving for Vietnam. Sara is left behind, broken hearted and secretly pregnant, yearning for letters she never received.

Then Paul died.

Now, years later, she discovers the betrayal wasn’t Paul’s, when her mother confesses to a sin that changed their lives forever. How can Sara reveal to Paul’s parents that they have a granddaughter they’ve missed the chance to know? Even worse, how will she find the words to tell her daughter that she’s lived her life in the shadow of a lie?

Picking her way through the minefields of secrets, distrust, and betrayal, Sara finds that putting her life together again while crossing burning bridges will be the hardest thing she’s ever done.

Release date: January 20, 2020
Buy link: mybook.to/BurningBridges
Price: $2.99 (for eBook), $9.99 (for paperback), KU

MFRW Book Hooks

Excerpt:

Sara unpacked the sandwiches and drinks, half listening as her mother launched into a description of the bazaar her church was planning for the upcoming holidays. It was only mid-October, and her mother was thinking ahead to Christmas. What will I be doing by Christmas? Making a move to a new location for the new year or wondering what to do with the rest of my life?

She stepped to the doorway and looked at the paintings lining the walls. The cozy shop had been her focal point for more years than she cared to count. Everything would be different by the first of the year, here at the gallery and maybe at home, too. Like the leaves being whipped from the trees by the wind, the landscape of her life would look quite different in a few weeks. She only hoped it wouldn’t be as barren and cold as she feared right now.

Dan had been accepted at Northwestern! She was happy for him, but what if he wanted Paula to go with him? Paula had attended school in Charleston and then been offered a job there. Except for brief vacations, Sara and her only child had never been farther apart than those seventy miles. Charleston was far enough for Paula’s independence, yet close enough for quick visits, lunches, plays, overnight gab fests. Sara had devoted her life to her daughter and reaped the reward of knowing her child as a friend.

Oh, she was blessed, and she knew it. Blessed and spoiled. How could she bear Paula’s move to Illinois if it happened? And what if Dan and Paula decided they liked Chicago and wanted to settle so far away? A sob welled in Sara’s throat and threatened to burst. She sucked in a breath.

Right now, those were ifs not certainties. She could talk to Dan, remind him how hard law school would be with an additional person to consider. Paula could help him, sure, but she would also demand time he wouldn’t have to give. And though Paula could teach there as well as here, the expense of a second person, added to that of graduate school, could be overwhelming. Surely Dan would see the logic of Paula’s waiting for him in Charleston. He was a reasonable man.

Hearing her mother’s chuckle and response to something Paula said brought Sara to her senses. She had never purposely avoided acting like her mother. In fact, she’d often sought her mother’s advice, especially when Paula was a child. But knowing what she did now, having learned in the past twenty-four hours the heartache meddling could bring about, Sara knew she wouldn’t interfere with Dan’s and Paula’s decision.

If Paula needed arms to shield and shelter, Sara would always be there, but she would not become her mother. And today she fully realized just what that meant.

Her mother hung up the phone and settled in one of the chairs facing the desk. Sara sat in her chair behind the desk. When they had their food set out and she had taken a sip of her drink, Sara dropped her bombshell.

“I’m making reservations to fly to Iowa as soon as possible. It’s long past due for Paul’s parents to know they have a granddaughter.”

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