SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR - Rose Sartin

I have had the pleasure of knowing Rose Sartin for over twenty years. I've watched her grow as a writer. I've listened as she talked through plot issues, seen her eyes light up as she described a scene and heard the frustration in her voice when she wasn't sure - days when all the ink bleeding seemed useless. I was there to celebrate her joy when she signed her contract with Oghma Creative Media.... a journey 40 years in the making!

October 9, 2016

50th annual Ozark Creative Writers Conference

Eureka Springs AR

BOUND BY HONOR, the first book in a trilogy,  released November 2017 was forty years in the making! Since then she's been featured in two newspapers. Kevin McClintock of the Joplin Globe called her a 'tenacious wordsmith'.

Here's a Fast Five And Three with Rose:

I’m always asked ‘where do you get your ideas’. So, where do you get yours?

Sometimes they're just ideas that come during quiet moments. Other times something someone says will spark an idea--or an object. For instance a spearhead my husband found in the garden was the inspiration for an upcoming book, Heart of the Stone. The tip of the spearhead looked as if blood had dried on it.

Which comes first, the story, the characters, or the setting?

My story usually comes first, but the characters show up immediately and take over

Which of your heroines most represent you, or the ‘you’ you’d like to be? Why?

That's a tough question. I think every author puts a little of themselves into their characters. My heroines tend to reflect my values. That's not to say I wouldn't like to share their adventurous spirit, or feisty attitude

What is the single most important part of writing for you?

The satisfaction of knowing people like my stories

What’s the most romantic thing a guy can do (or has done) for you?

That's easy. My husband wrote a poem for me called Our Two Souls Met, and sent it with a note asking for a second date. You can't get any more romantic than that.

Who, if anyone, has influenced your writing?

My husband, Gary, was my own special hero. I admit the heroes in my book reflect him. He encouraged me to keep writing. As for another romance author, Julie Garwood has always inspired me

City Girl or Country Girl

I'm a country girl at heart. Love the quiet of a country morning.

Favorite TV show

What can I say. I'm a Star trek fan through and through.

Rose Sartin's novella, The Acqeli, releases today! 

This is an exceptional collection of three stories that tie into her BOUND trilogy. Bound By Honor released November 2017. The second book in the trilogy is due early 2019.

You will find Bound By Honor at the following links:

AMAZON      Barnes & Noble

About the Author:

L. Rose Sartin was born in Illinois, raised in Iowa, and has spent most of her life in the Missouri Ozarks. She and her late husband, Gary, raised two daughters, Melissa and Angela, and a son, Eric, while building businesses as beekeepers, leathercrafters, and managers/tour guides in a show cave. Ms. Sartin is also proficient with the Mountain dulcimer, performing in radio, television, and documentaries.

Today she lives in their family home on an Ozark ridgetop that overlooks the Mark Twain National Forest. She is currently finishing the second and third novels in her Honor trilogy. Her life is filled with family and friends, music, good books, and plotting adventures for characters who show up on her mind’s doorstep.

You will find Rose Sartin on:

Facebook     Twitter

Tomorrow, I'll share my review of the Acqeli. In the mean time, you will find my review of Bound By Honor on Amazon.

FAST FIVE with Ashley Ladd

Ashley Ladd lives in South Florida with her husband, five children, and beloved pets. She loves the water, animals (especially cats), and playing on the computer.

She's been told she has a wicked sense of humor and often incorporates humor and adventure into her books. She also adores very spicy romance, which she weaves into her stories.

I've known Ashley for years so I was thrilled when she contacted me to see if she could be a guest in The Writers Studio. 

Please welcome Ashley Ladd...

1 – What draws you to write romance?

 I'm a born romantic, imagining romantic connections everywhere I go. There's a rare story I like that doesn't have a love story involved. I always hope for a happily ever after, even though I'm infamous with my family for also loving "end of the world" stories such as Night of the Comet, Armageddon, The Stand, Left Behind... If you're familiar with those stories, humanity triumphs in the end and there's a love story in every one of them.

 

2 – Are there recurring themes in your stories? And if so, what are they?

 I consciously try to change my stories so they're all different. However, I often have action-adventure and/or comedy in my stories. If not straight out comedy, there will be a humorous tone to at least a character or two in my stories.

 

3 – Writing is a business. What kind of a writing schedule do you keep?

 I have a full-time day job, so I get about 2-3 hours every evening after work to either write or promote. Lately, the time I was writing has been taken up by promotion as I just had two books release and there are two more books releasing in the near future.

 

I also try to write several hours on the weekends.

 

4 – Where is your favorite place to write?

 That's a really sore point. Borders WAS my favorite place to write, but of course they went out of business. I liked it there because they had power I could plug into in their café. Then of course there was the café in case I got hungry. Also my daughters liked to go to Borders with me so they could read all day.

 

Now that Borders has passed onto that big bookstore in the sky, I write in my bedroom. It's not my favorite place, but the best I've been able to find. We moved too far away from Barnes and Nobles to drive there often, plus they don't provide power so my computer dies too fast to make the trip worthwhile. I would go to the library more, but my youngest daughter doesn't like to hang out there as they don't have enough manga to keep her satisfied. I tried to write at Panera Bread but that got to be a little expensive plus I got tired of people wanting my table.

 

5 – What is your favorite promotional tool?

 Lately, I've been hosting other authors on my blog and also I've been doing blog tours for my own books. I hired My Family's Heart to help me set up blog tours, but I don't stop there. I also seek out bloggers who are willing to host me. Unfortunately, I don't have a large marketing budget so I have to do my own promotion. I can't wait for the day that I earn enough to hire a publicist so I can write full-time and let someone else worry about the marketing.

Here's a bit about Ashley's new book: Business or Pleasure

Guy Rogers is extremely attracted to his new realtor, Tom Beaudreaux. As a passionate vegetarian and animal activist, he’s ecstatic that Tom is a kindred soul. He could never be with a carnivore. Unfortunately, Tommy isn’t really a vegetarian or animal activist. He never said he was either, he just didn’t eat meat when he was with Guy. And maybe he emptied his house of all meat and dairy products before inviting Guy over. In fact, Tommy’s family owns the most popular barbecue restaurant in town and if his family has their way, he’ll manage the new location.

When Guy finds out that Tommy eats meat and his family owns a restaurant that is a monument to eating meat, he’s livid and doesn’t know if he wants anything else to do with Tommy.

But then Guy’s life gets crazy –his dad’s paranoia blossoms into violent dementia, he gets arrested for picketing a doggy mill, and then he winds up in even more legal trouble. When Tommy sticks by him through all his trouble and does everything he can to help him, Guy wonders if he’s been too militant and narrow-minded. Perhaps he can learn to live with people who have opposite views.

Excerpt:

Guy finished his meal, wadded up his napkin and dropped it on his plate. “Do you think it will take long to find more houses for me to look at?”

“I’ll make you—it—my priority. Just give me a couple days.” Damn! A Freudian slip.

Guy reached over as if to put his hand on Tommy’s, but stopped in midair. His eyes softened and hope flickered. “I’d like it if you made me, not my business, your priority.”

Tommy’s throat went dry and his heart flipped over. “Do you mean what I think you mean?”

Guy lowered his hand and took Tommy’s in his. “I think so. I like you—a lot. You’re handsome and charming and I feel a connection. I know it’s quick, but I’m a forthright, fast kind of guy. Besides, if you find me a house as rapidly as I want, you’ll be out of my life before I can do anything about it. Do I have a chance with you?”

Like what you've read so far? Then check out the Buy Links below to grab a copy!

https://www.totallybound.com/business-or-pleasure

Ashley loves to hear from her fans. You can find her at any of the links listed.

Email: chinara@aol.com

Website: http://www.ashleyladd.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyladdauthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ashleyladd

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AshleyLadd

Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/search/books?Keywords=Ashley%20Ladd

Amazon: LINK

Fast Five with Historical Athor, BJ Scott!

Happy Friday, everyone!

As we fly closer to the holidays, there is still plenty of time for last minute gift buying. And what better gift then a book!

This week, I'm proud to introduce you to my friend BJ. Highland Legacy is her debut Historical Romance. Here's a little about BJ:

With a passion for historical romance, history in general, and anything Celtic, B.J. always has an exciting work in progress. Each story offers a blend of romance, adventure, suspense, and, where appropriate, a dab of comic relief. Carefully researched historical facts are woven into each manuscript, providing a backdrop from which steamy romance, gripping plots, and vivid characters—dashing alpha heroes and resourceful, beguiling heroines you can’t help but admire—spring to life. A member of RWA, World Romance Writers, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and Savvy Authors, B.J. also writes contemporary, paranormal, time travel, and romantic suspense.

C.S. Lewis first captivated B. J.’s imagination in the fourth grade, and her desire to write sprang from there. Following a career in nursing and child and youth work, B.J. married her knight-in-shining-armor, and he whisked her away to his castle by the sea. In reality, they share their century-old home in a small Canadian town on the shore of Lake Erie with three dogs and a cat. When she is not working at her childcare job, on her small business, or writing, you will find her reading, camping, or antique hunting.

1. What did you do to celebrate when Highland Legacy came out?

Highland Legacy was released came on a Wed. Since it was a work day, I had to keep the celebration to a minimum, at least until I got home. My hubby had put a bottle of our favorite wine on chill and after toasting the book, it was back to the computer to answer emails, blogging and promoting. I think that part is harder and more work than the writing ;)

2. Do you have an idea for characters and build your plot around them or vice versa?

It varies with each story, but I usually develop a plot idea first and the characters evolve as the story is written.

3. What was the best advice you were given leading you to getting published?

Never give up your dream. Write where you can and when you can. Write about things you know and are passionate about. Rejection notices are a part of the road to publication. Use them as a learning tool to improve your work.

4. If you were going to cast your hero, Connor Fraser, what actor would get the

part?

Since I don’t have much time for movies or TV as far as that goes, picking an Actor would be difficult. The cover model, Jimmy Thomas is exactly how I pictured Connor. Maybe Jimmy could use the roll to make his acting debut. I could picture Adrian Paul, the actor who played the highlander on TV in the role too.

5. Tell us a little about your WIP.

Faced with an abhorrent betrothal, Cailin Macmillan flees her father’s castle and quickly learns that a woman traveling alone in Medieval Scotland is an easy target for ruthless English soldiers. When Highland patriot Connor Fraser comes to her aid, his steadfast dedication to king and country is challenged by his overwhelming desire to protect Cailin—even if he must marry her to do so.

Accused of murdering one of her attackers and determined to rely on her own resourcefulness, Cailin dresses as a lad, intent on seeking refuge at the camp of Robert the Bruce. Can she elude an enemy from her past—a vindictive English lord bent on her utter demise—or will she fall prey to his carnal intent and be executed for a crime she did not commit?

Here's a taste of what you'll experience in Highland Legacy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDx5dKkCrmM&feature=email

You can pick up your own copy of Highland Legacy at:

www.soulmatepublishing.com

www.amazon.com www.barnesandnoble.com

Please visit BJ at her website: www.authorbjscott.com

Fast Five with Jennifer Jakes

First off, I owe Jennifer a huge apology. Posting this earlier today totally slipped my mind when hubby's first words were, "I'm awake. Let's go shopping". What's a girl to do?

I've known Jennifer for about a year. We're in the same Ozarks Romance Authors group and both have our eye on country boy Jake Owens. So today, and for the whole weekend, I introduce you to Jennifer Jakes!

After trying several careers—everything from a beautician to a dump truck driver—Jennifer finally returned to her first love, writing. Maybe it was all those Clint Eastwood movies she watched growing up, but in her opinion there is no better read than a steamy western historical.

Married to her very own hero, she lives on fifteen acres along with two beautiful daughters, two elderly horses, two spoiled cats and two hyper dogs.

During the summer she does Civil War re-enacting and has found it a great research tool, not to mention she has continued appreciation for her microwave and hot water heater.

Visit Jennifer Jakes at www.jenniferjakes.com

1. Why do you write?

I guess it’s for the same reason all writers write – we have to get the voices out of our heads!

2. I know you began writing stories at a young age. What led you to Historical romances?

My favorite stories as a young girl were those about Pocahontas and Sacajawea. As I got older, those historicals just turned into a love for Historical Romance. And I have to write what I love.

3. How did you get into taking part in Re -enactments?

My interest in Western Historicals and the Civil War era led me to attend several reenactments. I met a lot of wonderful people there and in talking to them was soon donning my petticoats and bonnet.

4. Do you have a story you’d like to tell but doesn’t fit what you typically write? Actually, I do………and I just finished it! My newest release, TWICE IN A LIFETIME, – out the end of this month – is still historical, but it’s set on a pirate ship in 1768. So the secret is out: My other writing love are Pirates.

5. What is your favorite Holiday and do you ever use it as part of the setting in your books?

I love Christmas – the decorated trees, the twinkling lights. It takes me back to when I was a kid and that magical feeling children get around Christmas.

My debut novel, RAFE’S REDEMPTION, is set during the Christmas season and includes lots of snow – enough to trap my heroine and hero together in a cabin

Blurb for RAFE'S REDEMPTION:

He rode into town to buy supplies, not a woman.

For hunted recluse Rafe McBride, the raven-haired beauty on the auction block is exactly what he doesn't need. A dependent woman will be another clue his vengeful stepbrother can use to find and kill him. But Rafe's conscience won't let him leave another innocent's virginity to the riff-raff bidding. He buys her, promising to return her to St. Louis untouched. He only prays the impending blizzard holds off before her sultry beauty breaks his willpower.

She wanted freedom, not a lover.

Whisked to the auction block by her devious, gambling cousin, and then sold into the arms of a gorgeous stranger, outspoken artist Maggie Monroe isn't about to go meekly. Especially when the rugged mountain man looks like sin and danger rolled into one. But a blizzard and temptation thrust them together, and Maggie yearns to explore her smoldering passion for Rafe.

But when the snow clears, will the danger and secrets that surround Rafe and Maggie tear them apart?

Blurb for TWICE IN A LIFETIME:

Be Careful What You Wish For. . .

No-nonsense stuntwoman Isabella Douglas will do anything to stop an unwanted divorce and reclaim the happy life she had, even allow her old friend to concoct a magical spell to turn back time. But when the spell goes awry, Izzy finds herself trapped aboard a 1768 Caribbean pirate ship with a captain who’s a dead ringer for her sexy as sin husband, Ian. Convinced he’s playing a cruel joke, she’s furious – until she realizes he doesn’t know her or believe they’re married.

Captain Ian Douglas does not have time to deal with an insane woman who claims to be his wife; he has to save his kidnapped sister. But as Izzy haunts his dreams and fills him with erotic memories he can’t explain, he’s forced to admit he feels more than lust.

Trapped in a vicious cycle of past mirroring present, Izzy knows they only have days to find Ian’s sister and prevent disaster from striking a second time. If she doesn’t, their marriage will be destroyed again – along with the man she loves.

Thanks for stopping by and checking out the Fast Five with Jennifer Jakes. Please check out her website. You can also go directly to

http://tinyurl.com/42sn4n5 and Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/3vrdc9f

to pick up your copy of Rafe's Redemption!

Angela!

Nano Week 1

Okay,

I've not written as much as I should have by now. But considering the story actually began to gel for me yesterday (Note, that would be Day 6), I'm doing pretty good!

I know my hero - Brent McCormack is back on his parents' ranch after being disillusioned by the commercialism of Nashville. (Have I got a lesson for him!) He has given up his dream of being the next Garth Brooks but not of playing the Texas music he is passionate about.

I know my heroine - Jessie Daniels. She's been physically and emotionally abused. She's back home where she feels safe. Safe goes right out the window when Brent McCormack walks into the Blue Plate Diner where she's waiting tables. He's not the boy she remembers hanging with her older brother back in high school. But he is still the same person who got her brother killed four years previous. Seeing him flares up a smoldering pain... and something else.

I know I'll be featuring the Texas music community I've come to love.

I know Brent and Jessie will wind up Happily Ever After.

I know where I'm going so when one scene isn't working, I can jump around and still come up with a daily word count.

What I DON'T know...

is what the pivotal scene is that HAS to take place in The Lonesome Steer.

But it will come to me. Just like the rest of this has.

I'll be busy writing the rest of this week. But Friday is Veteran's Day and I have a Special Guest for Fast Five Friday. You won't want to miss getting to know this man!

Happy Writing!

Fast Five with Gordon Warnock

Gordon Warnock is the Senior Agent with the Andrea Hurst Literary Agency. He combines his knowledge of the industry with a sharp editorial eye. He’s also fun to visit with. He attends as many conferences as his schedule allows so if you have the opportunity to meet him, GO!

1. How do you select what conferences to attend?

I’m usually asked and have a hard time saying no. I also look at conferences that have been recommended to me by other agents and editors.

2. In my pitch workshop, I encourage authors to not waste time getting a requested submission out. Then you spoke about there not being a ‘statute of limitations’ on a request. Would you clarify, please?

If they learn something at the conference that can make that submission better, then I would prefer they took the time to put that knowledge to use before sending me something. Quality is more important than Time.

3. What is the biggest mistake you see made during pitch sessions?

Not relaxing. We are human, just like you are. And being prepared.

4. Personal favorite read? Non-work related?

Stories that inspire me, shorts or flash pieces and stories that push the art form.

5. Favorite comfort food?

Carbs and cheese. I attended one of those BBQ cook-off events with friends and found I enjoy good BBQ.

I had a great time chatting with Gordon at the Ozark Creative Writers conference. He gave an informative presentation and I look forward to networking with him again. Thanks Gordon!

NOTE: The above answers are paraphrased from our quick conversation and not ‘direct’ quotes.

Fast Five with Marissa St. James

Welcome to a beautiful Friday in Eureka Springs AR. I love this little town. I am at the Ozark Creative Writers conference and running behind after a beautiful 3.5 mile walk through the Historic District.

So, today I'm sharing with you a talented writer. I've known Marissa for over fifteen years. I hope you'll enjoy this glimpse of what she has to over then scoot over to her Website and Blog.

Here's a little bit about Marissa St. James:

Marissa St James is a lifelong New England resident. She began writing as a hobby when she was a teenager then turned it into a career after earning a degree in Humanities. She is an avid reader and when she has time enjoys a variety of crafts. Marissa has written several romance novels as well as a collection of paranormal short stories. You can visit Marissa at Marissa St. James and her blog at Marissa's Meanderings.

#1 – How long did you work on Highland Eyes before it saw publication?

Actually Highland Eyes was my second writing project but was the first to see publication. It took about a year to get it ready for submission. The Legend and the Laird was my first attempt at writing and took ten years, off and on, to complete.

#2 – McKinley’s Jewel is your newest release. What is your favorite part of the story?

I would say later in the story when David finally realizes just what Bonnie-Jean means to him.

#3 - What do you like best about writing time travel?

It’s a challenge to combine ‘old’ ways and modern thinking to come up with something that’s compatible and makes sense. I’ve always been fascinated with medieval times and I like trying to blend in some of those events with modern ‘intrusions.’ It’s also fun to have medieval characters shocked at modern day conveniences and attitudes.

#4 – If you could travel back in time, what would you most like to experience?

This is a toughie. I think I’d like to try a little of everything. Kind of like looking at a table with all those tempting desserts. You have to have a bite of everything.

#5 – What is the most helpful piece of writing advice you ever received and how has it helped you?

When you have an idea just write. Don’t worry about it being correct the first time around. That’s what first drafts are for.

This is one of the hard ones for me yet the most important and productive. Editing is my day job so I tend to fix things as soon as I realize they need fixing. It saves a little time on the next round but you have to be very good with the basics to pick up errors as they’re made.

Excerpt:

“Candace just told me the place is haunted. She said she heard a voice begging for help, somewhere around the portrait gallery.”

“And you believe her.” Bonnie-Jean glanced up at him, one delicately shaped brow raised in question.

Andrew shrugged. The man was nothing if not gullible when an attractive woman was involved. He wasn’t a handsome man but sometimes Bonnie-Jean wondered if he couldn’t use a bit more confidence when it came to the more devious gender.

“Look, Andrew,” Bonnie-Jean put down her notebook and folded her hands on top of it. “I know how much you like Candace, but do yourself a favor and don’t believe everything she tells you.”

Andrew’s expression was one of attempted denial, but Bonnie-Jean knew better. “Do you want to file a complaint about the supposed haunting?”

“I suppose not. The laird would undoubtedly find it absurd.”

First Fast Five Winner!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to check out my new blog feature. You're really going to enjoy who I have on tap for next week.

This week's winner of Eliza's new release, Wicked Lord, is Jennifer! Congratulations, Jennifer. I'll get you hooked up with Eliza so you may collect your eBook.

Until next week...

Happy Reading!

Angela

Fast Five with Eliza Lloyd

Today begins a new series where I use the occasional Friday to do a simple Q & A with an author. I give them 5 questions and they give me their 5 best answers. Sometimes, like today, they even offer up a Free Read.

Today's author is Ellora's Cave author, Eliza Lloyd . Her third 'Wicked' book - Wicked Lord - was released on September 14th. I still need to read this series, but I did read Another Lover in under 2 hours. Eliza knows her heat factor. You won't want to miss any of her beautifully crafted stories.

Today.. one lucky person will win an eBook copy of 'Wicked Lord'.

#1 – Do you have an idea for characters and build your plot around them or vice versa?

The plot “idea” always comes first. Then I’ll get a glimpse of the characters. Once I know what they want and why they can’t have it then I got back to plotting. I am a pantster who lives by sticky notes so plotting is a very fluid process for me.

#2 – Wicked Lord is the third in the series. What makes this book different from the previous ones?

That’s a tough question especially when I’m writing a themed series (see below.)

One of the biggest relationship differences is that the hero is in love with his wife before she realizes she is in love with him. Because of the circumstances of their marriage, he believes it is necessary to wait for her to declare her devotion to him first. This 19th century story is also set at a country estate rather than in London during the season – so there is only one waltz.

#3 – What is the common thread throughout the series?

The Wicked Affairs series started with a single idea, “happily ever after unless.” All of the protagonists are married but are at some great impasse in their marriage. In Wicked Desires, the hero is impotent. A great trick to pull off in an erotica! In Wicked Temptation, the heroine is married to a younger man and her naughty past comes back to haunt her. And in the new Wicked Lord, the hero is newly married but his wife is in love with another man. I like to write about married couples – it is more realistic during that time period and the hurt and emotion can be greater, I think.

#4 – I read Another Lover in 2 hours last night (I LOVE MY KINDLE!) You tell a beautiful story. What drew you to this genre of romance?

I love historical romance and read it non-stop so I was naturally drawn to that genre when I started writing. The erotica came next because I tend to write stories that are more sexual. For me, the early 19th century is just so full of romanticism, drama and wonderfully dressed men in tight breeches – what’s not to love?

#5 – What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and how has it helped you?

A couple of years ago, I met three authors at a Celebrate Romance conference in Kansas City. They told me that to get published I would need luck, perseverance and talent. I used that as my screen saver for several years to remind me that to be successful was going to take more than just the ability to string a few words together.

Secondly, learn to be your own best critic. Writing a novel that impresses your friends and family is generally not going to impress a New York editor. Look for ways to make every word count and to make them strong. Voice is a nebulous thing but we all recognize it when we read it. Find yours.

You can pick up any of Eliza's books by going to her blog and clicking the Amazon or Ellora's Cave link.

How do you win your copy of a Wicked Lord? Answer the following question by leaving your answer in the comments. Happy Reading!

Answer and WIN!

What is the common thread throughout the Wicked series?