Leave No Trace of the Fatal Catch with Roxe Anne Peacock

Could you please start by telling us a little about yourself?

The sky’s the limit. As I begin my next journey of taking on the task to be an e-publisher, I feel the need to be able to write in multiple genres. First, I went through my art stage, which was invaluable for working with cover art. My art was featured in Border’s coffee shop for one month, in specialty shops, museums, and art galleries. The moment I savor most is when I was asked to be in a juried art book, Art Rockford, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. At the conclusion of that accomplishment, I decided it was time to venture out into the world and try my hand at writing.

I began my writing journey composing poetry and then submitting my works to a local newspaper. Then I joined a local writer’s group who hold an Ide’s of March contest each year. I entered several short stories, some of which were chosen for their book. My next project seemed imminent. The first mystery I worked on was Fatal Catch, but Leave No Trace was the first to be published. I wrote the book in third person and wasn’t happy with the results. I then rewrote the entire book in first person. What a task.

My experiences weren’t much different than most. I worked on two books at a time; one of which I thought was fantastic. Boy was I wrong. I decided to attend my first writer’s conference, in February no less; snow storms, stranded. I went around to all the panels and like a kid in the candy store. I did a lot of networking and met many new friends. The next step was the dreaded pitch which I rehearsed for days on end. I walked into the first pitch, greeted by the perfect publisher for a first time author, Karen Syed, Echelon Press. I pitched my heart out and she gave me positive feedback. Whew, that went well, I thought. My time was up. I held my head high and smiled all the way out the door, only to fall face first in front of a group of writers waiting in line. With it almost being time to dress for dinner, I retreated to my room and called everyone at home and said, “I am going to get published. They loved my book. I have three or four parties interested”. No such luck.  After I returned home, I was still pumped. I submitted about forty cover letters and synopsis to agents and publishers, only to get rejected on all accounts.  

The moral of this story is to make sure your work is polished. Don’t let friends and family critique your work, find a good editor. I also was told by one agent to change the title of one of my books which I did. Now this doesn’t mean I change everything suggested, I do keep what I truly believe in.

If you are a new writer, join good writer’s groups online and locally. Attend conferences and panels.  But most of all, don’t rehearse your pitch so much you come off like you are reciting a political speech.

The next step to boost my sore ego was to write a short story, Battlefield Ghosts. It was published by Dragoon Publishing in Ghost Voices. The great news gave me strength to continue writing.

After Fatal Catch and Leave No Trace came my non-fiction project, my nightmare, torture and wonderful adventure. I never knew writing a historical cookbook could be so demanding. History Lover’s Cookbook is based on nineteenth century recipes and the Civil War.  With all the research, also comes the trial and error of trying to interpret recipes which have a language all their own. Thank goodness for grandkids who are willing to eat the rejects. After many times making the same recipe, there are the dreaded photographs. Food photography needs to be respected people, it is difficult. A good cup of coffee comes with a dab of dish soap swirled around to make the bubbles. The food photography alone caused my   hair to turn gray.

But on another note, I have a fantastic Civil War photographer, Tom George Davison, at http://www.tgdavison-photography.smugmug.com ,who is contributing many Civil War food and re-enactment photographs for the book.

History Lover’s Cookbook will be the first book published by Jupiter Publishing in October 2012. Next year I hope to be able to publish two books a month from other authors.

 How much research do you do for your books? Have you found any cool tidbits in your research?

The research for my books depends on the genre. History Lover’s Cookbook has taken over two years of steady work. My mysteries aren’t as demanding and only take about one month of research.

Leave No Trace did take a bit longer due to my getting sidetracked. I fell in love with the Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico. I didn’t know I would unveil an article about a true story which took place in the canyon of the park. Two best friends, Raffi Kodikian and David Coughlin planned a journey across country together not knowing one would be murdered and the other allegedly committed the crime. I couldn’t put the book down nor can I get the book, Journal of the Dead, out of my mind.

How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?

I am glad you ask that question. My daughter, Heather Land, edits my work, designed my last book cover, and Photoshops some of my food photography. She contributes more than her share. My husband, Tom, will go over the books a few times which is good for him; he really doesn’t like to read.

My daughter, Angela, reads my books on her breaks at work. She also attended my book signing for my art book, Art Rockford, which the Rockford Chamber of Commerce put on. The rest of my family, including grandchildren, won’t even open the books.

As far as the cookbook goes, it is difficult balancing a “diet” and butter laced recipes. When my family comes for dinner, they never know what they are going to eat, vegan, vegetarian, etc. My oldest daughter, Sandy, told me, “No offense, mom, but I liked how you used to cook. I prefer ham, cheesy potatoes, mashed potatoes, corn pudding, biscuits and gravy, bacon, and fruit salad with marshmallows”. I said, “You mean the 1980’s?” My granddaughter, Jenny, said, “Yeah, Grandma, if you can cook all those fattening foods for the cookbook, why can’t you cook like that for us”? I responded, “I didn’t used to have a kidney disease”.

Do you have a ritual when it comes to writing? Example….get coffee, blanket, paper, pen and a comfy place

When I write, I get out all my reference material, spiral notebooks, three ring binders, favorite ink pens with padding, Kindle Fire of course, phone, TV changer, pillows, favorite blanket, bottle of water and a glass of iced tea. Then I plop down in my comfy oversized recliner with my dog, Spike, at my feet.

For me, I need noise when I write. I guess it comes from raising five of my own daughters, and some AFS exchange students. You learn to multi-task quick.

When I get several chapters handwritten in my notebook, I transfer the information onto the computer, editing at the same time. I then print out what I typed and edit again. Then I go back to the notebook and start the process over.

A writing day for me might consist of two to eighteen hours, with a few breaks for stretching.  And then I continue writing in my dreams.

Can you please give us a sneak peek at any of your upcoming books?

My next book is entitled, The Garbage Eaters. As blue lights appear near the Smokey Mountains, hikers disappear. Spring 2013.

When you have writer’s block, how do you break free?

Sometimes with writing it is difficult to stay on task. When I have a brain freeze, I turn to shorter goals such as poetry, or short stories I can submit to contests. I find that there really isn’t much of a difference between a writer’s block and dieting, when you reach a plateau, it takes you a few weeks to get back on track. Set short goals, twenty-five pounds, twenty-five pages, etc. It might take a little longer to get to your goal, but the end result will be fantastic.

 Is there a genre of book you would like to write but haven’t yet?

I have a desire to explore science-fiction. This is a bit confusing since I have cringed at the thought of watching any science-fiction on television. No Star Trek for me, Planet of the Apes, and no V. The older I get, the more adventurous I have become. I am currently researching material for my next project, science-fiction. I have become obsessed with aliens. Maybe they visited me and I don’t recall?

What would be the best way for readers to contact you? Do you have a website? Email address? MySpace site? Blog? Message Board? Group?

Website: http://www.roxeannepeacock.com

Email: peacockroxeanne@yahoo.com

Blog: http://www.civilwarcooking.blogspot.com

I am also on Twitter, GoodReads, and Facebook. I am sorry I can’t take on any new friends at this time for Facebook, I am at the limit and need to compose a Fan page.

I also belong to Sisters in Crime / National, Sisters in Crime / Chicagoland and Guppies.

What type of books have you always wanted to write?

My writing career wouldn’t be complete if I couldn’t write a book on How to Take Over Your Life and Become Fit at any Age. The older I get, the more health issues I acquire. It doesn’t help that I sit on my behind most of the day, or at least that is what I blame my condition on. But really, if we truly want to get healthy and lose weight, we can find 10 minutes a day to walk or exercise. In fact, the little bit of extra oxygen you might get, might decrease your writer’s block.

Do deadlines help or hinder your muse?

If there are no deadlines set for me, I will set a realistic one. Since I am a self-published author, I think I am harder on myself than another publisher would be. For History Lover’s Cookbook, I have a formatter which sets up a time-frame of availability. I need to be considerate of their schedule as well as my own.

 

LEAVE NO TRACE

Jessica Waters was looking forward to attending college in the fall with her best friend, Sandra Adams. But when Sandra disappears the night after prom, mutual friend, Jason Harris becomes the number one suspect in the tight-knit community of Carlsbad, New Mexico. Before Sandra disappeared, she confessed to having an affair with coach and teacher, Carl Lundstrum. Now Jessica is going to make it her mission to find out what happened to her best friend if it is the last thing she ever does.

Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press LLC (February 15, 2011)

Amazon / Barnes & Noble

FATAL CATCH

It’s 1963, and Chief Riley Bennett knocks on Dody Canfield’s door informing her that her husband died instantly when his car struck a telephone pole. Not wanting to raise three children alone, it isn’t long before she brings home Frank Billings; and he’s moving in.

Mama sends thirteen-year-old Missy to take her little brother, Billie, fishing so she can have some alone time with Uncle Frank. Billie casts his line into the murky river water hooking the granddaddy of all fish. He quickly hands the reel to Missy hoping not to lose his catch. Missy reels in slowly—bubbles begin emerging—releasing an undercurrent of secrets, deadly lies, and terror on the Canfield family.

Publisher: Roxe Anne Peacock (October 30, 2011)

Amazon / Barnes & Noble (BN ID: 2940032839262)

Looking for adventure? Get in the zone with Diane Burton

Diane Burton combines her love of mystery, adventure, science fiction, and romance into writing romantic fiction. She's a member of Romance Writers of America as well as the Mid-Michigan RWA and Young Adult RWA chapters. She is the author of the Switched series, about twins exchanging places—from Earth to a starship. The first two books, Switched and Switched, Too, are available as e-books. The concluding book is a work in progress. Diane and her husband live in mid-Michigan. They have two children and two grandchildren.

Could you please start by telling us a little about yourself?

I'm a Midwest girl who grew up in the Detroit suburbs then moved to Missouri and Chicago and back to Michigan because of my husband's job. I love movies—my favorites are Star Trek, Star Wars and Firefly because I'm absolutely intrigued by the possibility of space travel and living/working in space or on other planets. My first book, Switched, a futuristic, was print published in 2001. I self-published it as an e-book last fall.

Please tell us your latest news!

The sequel to Switched, Switched, Too, is now available as an e-book. This book was a long time coming and I'm so excited it's finally available, especially for those who enjoyed Switched and practically begged for Scott and Veronese's story.

Please describe your writing environment.

My husband made me a beautiful desk (woodworking is his hobby). Do I work there? LOL No. My favorite place to write is in a recliner on my laptop in the early morning when all is quiet. If my husband wants to watch TV, I stick in my earbuds and listen to either New Age (Enya is a favorite) or classical music—nothing with English lyrics because words are a distraction.

Do you plan all your characters out before you start a story or do they develop as you write?

Sort of. My stories usually start with the first scene popping into my head. Then, I play the "what-if" game. I'm more of a write-by-the-seat-of-the-pants writer than a plotter so my characters evolve as I learn about them. They often surprise me. I'll be writing along and they'll "say" something totally out of the blue which sometimes takes the story in a new (often better) direction.

What main genre do you write in?

I'm published in Paranormal Romance—space adventure with romance. I also write romantic suspense, Young Adult (more middle grade) space adventure and I'm working on a female detective series.

How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?

Of course, they read my books. :)  My family is very supportive—especially my husband. His attitude has always been "go for it". There were times when I wanted to quit, but he encouraged me to keep going. I've always loved him for that. Well, I love him for other reasons, too. My children are also supportive, as is my extended family.

What are your hobbies?

Reading is #1. I couldn't be a writer without being a reader first. I love gardening. Since we've moved so many times, I've left a little part of myself behind at each house with my perennials, especially irises and lilies of the valley which came from my mother's and grandmother's gardens. I like to quilt but need to make time for it again. Photography has been part of my life since I was ten and got my first camera. I've used some of my own photos in posts on my blog.

If you had to choose one person to have dinner with, who would it be? And why?

Star Trek's Mr. Spock. His character has evolved so much from the original series, through the first six movies, and into the latest where we see him as an old man as well as a younger version in the alternate reality. I'd like to hear his perspective on what it's like to bridge two cultures since he's half-Vulcan and half-human. Bridging two cultures is a problem for two of my characters: Veronese, the main character in Switched, Too, and Marcus in Switched. How should they choose which world to live in and what will be the consequences?

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

Oh, yes. My best friend in high school and I wrote fan fiction, only we didn't know that was what it was called. We would write and share with each other stories based on our favorite TV shows starring ourselves, of course. LOL We have huge crushes on certain characters. The one time I submitted a story in a creative writing class my teacher told me to stop wasting my time writing romance and write serious stuff. That ended my budding writing career. For a while. After my children graduated high school and I was done with the school/church/scouts volunteering, I decided to write the stories I love to read—romance, suspense, adventure. Now, they happen to take place on starships.

Do you write full time? What did you do before you became a writer? Or Still do?

If I added up all the hours per week I spend on my writing career, it would definitely be more than forty. But I don't write 8 hours/day, 5 days/week. Some days, when I'm really cooking, it's twelve or more. Other days, when I get a chance to play with my grandchildren, it's nada. Have to keep my priorities straight.

My most important job was as a stay-at-home mom raising two children. I've been an elementary teacher, inventory clerk in a flute store, and have done temp office work for a Girl Scout council and a medical non-profit. My last job before retiring was with an oil and gas exploration company where I found the cure for insomnia—reading oil and gas leases.

Current Release Details:

The theme of Switched, Too is be careful what you wish for . . . you might get it. Scott Cherella's lifelong dream to go into space quickly becomes a nightmare. Veronese Qilana must protect him, a Terran masquerading as a starship captain. When sabotage erupts, they must work together to get the crew safely home. In doing so, they discover opposites really do attract.

How can readers find out more about you and your books?

Readers can learn more about me and my books at:

my website: www.dianeburton.com

my blog: http://dianeburton.blogspot.com (I blog every Monday morning)

I'm on FB at Diane Burton – Author  Twitter at @dmburton72 and Goodreads

 Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure chatting with you.

Scott had no choice but to use the computer now. Before tackling it for the first time, he'd hoped for the privacy of his quarters—and Veronese Qilana's help. His reluctant co-conspirator ditched him as soon as they came aboard. He mentally kicked himself for his selfishness. They were in the middle of a crisis. She had her duties. He had his.

Damn. He didn't want to tackle the computer. Suck it up, Ace. You can do this. You wanted adventure. You wanted to explore space. You got it. Now, man up.

He sat in the captain's chair. Automatically, an instrument panel on the right swung up and in front of him. A hit in the solar plexus might have been easier to take. Symbols and shapes he'd never seen before covered the segmented screen. It might as well be filled with ancient Sanskrit. Panic shot through him. He couldn't read.

Amazon / Barnes &Noble / Smashwords

Welcome Women’s Fiction Author … Jamie Salisbury

Jamie Salisbury cannot imagine a time when she did not write. A skill that has served her well throughout her diversified professional career that encompassed public relations in and around the entertainment industry, photography, editing, and special event planning.

An avid reader of history, biographies, and romance it's only natural that she prefers to write historical romances with characters said to be "so authentic they spring forth from the page and shake the reader's hand." No stranger to life threatening situations Jamie pulls from life experience when she creates her stories. Such as when her family had to escape Chile when she was a teen because of the unstable political climate.

Unable to walk great distances as a result of several foot surgeries, she started writing once again as a way to pass the time. With the completion of her first novel Perpetual Love she dove head first into the eBook and digital publishing paradigm. She couldn't be happier with her decision to grab the publishing industry by the shoulders and force it to pay attention to all she has to offer.

Tell us your latest news. . .

Timeless Sojourn is my latest contemporary romance which will be released July 9^th.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I’ve always written, but I think the teacher I had in high school for a Creative Writing class did it for me. She encouraged her students, had some, at the time, off the wall ideas in order to get us to expand our writing skills (she would have us write a piece about a song on a album of her choosing).

Do you write full time?

Yes, I am fortunate that I can say I write full time. Before I had an extensive background in public relations and special events planning. I still do some public relations work for a select clientele.

Current release details

Anne Harrison is at an age when most women are enjoying the fact that their children are now grown and moved out, and can enjoy their spouses. Fate is fickle. It has other ideas for Anne. She is instead faced with a divorce and starting over.

Geoffrey Quinn is a successful businessman with many layers who happens to be quite handsome who like Anne has no expectations of a relationship.

But all of that is about to change.

What’s the best way for readers to contact you?

Website:  http://www.jamiesalisbury.webs.com

Blog: http://www.jamiesalisburyauthor.blogspot.com

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/JamieRSalisburyAuthor

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/#!/JamieRSalisbury

Email: TudorRose829@gmail.com

What is the best advice and worse advice you have ever received?

The best: keep writing, always keep writing. The worse? Quit while you’re ahead. You’ll never make it as a successful author.

What type of book have you always wanted to write?

Action/adventure. I’m researching a future project that will have all of that. It’s a little out of my comfort zone but I’m game.

If you could be one of your characters – who would you be? And why?

Probably Zara Middleton-Tudor from Tudor Rose. She is an independent, savvy and successful businesswoman, who doesn’t let anyone beat her down. Plus she’s fiercely loyal to her clients and they are in return.

Can you please give us a sneak peek at any of your upcoming books?

I’m working on a couple – helps with writers block. One is a Scottish/British historical romance set in the 1890s.  I am also working on the sequel to Tudor Rose and I have one I’m doing research on which is a contemporary romance, with more action/adventure than what I normally write.

Who is your favorite cover model? And why?

Jimmy Thomas, without a doubt. He’s of the age set of quite a few of my male characters. His images say it all. He’s professional, smart, and oh yeah, he’s damn good looking.

"It wasn't supposed to be like this!", has become the mantra in Anne Harrison's head since her recent divorce. She was too old to be here...to be single. Melancholy and unsure about anything Anne takes her long time friend Kat's advice and gets back to her roots...in Seattle. There she hopes to connect with that long ago girl from her childhood and find her confidence again.

Devilishly handsome, arrogant, and cocky Geoffrey Quinn is a man of success. He's also a man of layers and most people can't get past what he portrays. No one until Anne.

The last thing either of these people are looking for is a relationship. Anne finds Geoff highly irritating (and young!) at his best, while Geoffrey finds her magnetic and wise.

Seemingly unsuitable and unplanned attractions lights a fiery passion this duo never expected.

Will they take a chance on passion? If they do what happens when the blaze recedes? What will be left ashes or embers?

Amazon / B&N / Smashwords

A Ghost Writer  with a lot of Secrets … Lorna Collins

Lorna Collins was raised in Alhambra, California and attended California State University at Los Angeles where she majored in English.

Between 1998 and 2001, she worked in Osaka, Japan on the Universal Studios theme park with her husband, Larry. Their memoir of that experience, 31 Months in Japan: The Building of a Theme Park, was published in 2005 and was a finalist for the 2006 nonfiction EPPIE award and named as one of Rebeccas Reads best nonfiction books of 2005.

They have written two mysteries together: Murder… They Wrote, published in 2009, and Murder in Paradise, published in 2010. The latter was a finalist for the 2011 EPIC eBook Award in 2011. They are currently working on at least two more in this series.

Along with authors Sherry Derr-Wille, Luanna Rugh, and Christie Shary, Lorna wrote several romance anthologies: Snowflake Secrets, finalist for the Dream Realm and Eric Hoffer Awards, published in 2008, Seasons of Love in 2009, and Directions of Love in 2010. Directions of Love received the EPIC eBook Award for best romance anthology of 2011. The group added debut author, Cheryl Gardarian for An Aspen Grove Christmas, published in December of 2010. The group is currently working on three more anthologies.

Ghost Writer is Lorna’s first solo effort, and her favorite book so far.

Today she and Larry are retired and reside in Dana Point, California.

 

Could you please start by telling us a little about yourself?

I am one of those rare birds: a native Californian. I was born in Hollywood at a hospital overlooking the Hollywood Freeway. I grew up in Alhambra, California in the same neighborhood with my husband, Larry. I received a California State Scholarship and Cal. State LA majoring in English.

During my career in Document Control, I wrote many policies and procedures, leading me to other positions, including Sr. Technical Writer.

In 1998, Larry and I moved to Osaka, Japan to build the Universal Studios theme park. This adventure resulted in our memoir, 31 Months in Japan: The Building of a Theme Park, which was a 2006 EPPIE finalist, Editor's choice Award winner, and one of Rebeccas Reads best nonfiction books of 2005.

We then moved on to mysteries, the first of which was Murder…They Wrote. Our second, Murder in Paradise, was a finalist for the 2012 EPIC Award.

In addition, I write anthologies with Sherry Derr-Wille, Christie Shary, and Luanna Rugh. Snowflake Secrets, our first, was a finalist in the Dream Realm and Eric Hoffer awards. Another, Directions of Love, won the 2011 EPIC Award for romance anthology. There are two others: Seasons of Love, and An Aspen Grove Christmas.

Ghost Writer, my first solo work from Oak Tree Press, is my first fantasy/mystery romance. I had so much fun writing this one that I am already at work on another in the same genre called Sofia’s Garden.

Meanwhile, Larry and I are happily retired and writing in Dana Point, CA.

Please tell us your latest news!

I’m so excited about the release of Ghost Writer! It features my first ghost, Max, who is a crusty self-centered old curmudgeon. I adored bringing him to life since he’s so different from any other character I’ve ever written. In fact, I dragged my feet about finishing the book. I finally figured out that the reason was that I didn’t want to let go of Max!

Ghost Writer is a great beach read since it’s set in and around Laguna Beach, California.

Please describe your writing environment.

I believe in suffering for my art. But seriously, Larry and I share an office where we look out on our ‘Zen Garden’ complete with Japanese rock garden and waterfall. As we write, we can hear the trickle of water tripping down the stones. The waterfall is about thirty-five feet tall and goes from the top of the slope to the bottom, so the sound is heavenly. There is a link to photos on our website www.lornalarry.com. All 9,000 plus of my favorite tunes are loaded onto my computer, so I can also surround myself with wonderful music. It’s the best place in the world to support creativity.

Do you plan all your characters out before you start a story or do they develop as you write?

I know who my major characters will be, but sometimes new ones appear as the story develops. In Ghost Writer, the character of Helen, Max’s former secretary, came along as a bit of a surprise. But I welcomed her when she showed up since she brought with her another whole story thread.

How much research do you do for your books? Have you found any cool tidbits in your research?

Research is the key to any book, and it’s absolutely necessary. Larry and I are currently working on a historical novel set in San Juan Capistrano. We’ve read as much as we can find on the period between 1800 and 1890, but there aren’t too many sources. Fortunately the ‘official’ historian of San Juan agreed to review our chapters as we complete them. She’s a fabulous resource.

As for something cool we discovered doing research, we were in Hawaii (doing research) at the time of the final edits for our second mystery, Murder in Paradise. We’d written about a restaurant we knew well. But when we arrived, we discovered it had moved! We made a couple of changes to the manuscript, and it was published with the correct information. But that’s why it’s necessary to be thorough in researching even for contemporary writing.

What main genre do you write in?

This is really a funny question since we only intended to write the memoir. But while attending the Maui Writers Conference in 2005, Larry came up with an idea for a mystery, and we met the inspiration for our protagonist, Agapé Jones.

Then I had a wild idea for a romance anthology with a through story. I floated it to Sherry Derr-Wille, and she liked the idea. Then I added two more author friends, and the anthologies came about.

The ghost found me. We were carpooling from work one day, and he came to me. He was so fusty and annoying, I had to write him! So now, I’ve added fantasy to the mix.

And I have an old romance novel languishing in my files waiting for me to get back to it.

How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?

Since we’re both writers, the rest of the family has been very accepting and encouraging. We were blessed with amazing families who would have encouraged us in whatever we chose to do. Some of them read our books, and quite a few have passed them on and recommended them to friends. Of course, we write I a variety of styles, so most readers can find something they like. (The truth is, I’m easily bored, so doing different kinds of books keeps it interesting.)

Current Release Details:

Ghost Writer, my fantasy/romance/mystery set in and around Laguna Beach, CA, was just released by Oak Tree Press. It is available directly from the publisher’s website, www.oaktreebooks.com, or from most other online sources in paperback and ebook format.

Who is your perfect hero? And why?

Larry, of course. He’s the gentle but self-confident and internally strong guy I always write. I know him best since we’ve been married nearly forty-seven years, and I grew up with him. I’ve never met a more decent and kind person. And that’s what I want for the women in my books. They, like me, are usually pretty self-sufficient and strong. So, I know that the personalities of the main characters will work well together.

How can readers find out more about you and your books?

The best place to find out about us is on our website www.lornalarry.com. Our precious Japanese son-in-law, Toshihiro Komiyama, insisted on updating it. He’s kept it up ever since. On the site are links to my blog and lots and lots of information on us and our books.

We’re both on Facebook and Goodreads. I also post to LinkedIn and Twitter. In fact, if folks are anywhere in social media, it would be hard to miss me!

Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how does this help or hinder you?

Our critique group is probably the single most important reason we got our first book published. I had started the book, then asked Larry for input. He came back some time later with a completely different book. And that’s where I gave up until a friend suggested coming to the group to see if they could help. They did. And we learned to write together.

We continue to attend the group meetings every Monday night. And they continue to make suggestions that improve our work. I highly recommend finding a group that’s the right fit, but I always recommend working with a group.

What's your favorite genre to read?

I have always loved anthologies. I enjoy the shorter format since I usually read at bedtime. I can complete a novella in a few evenings. I also like reading tight, clean prose. I have read some books that go on and on without moving the story along. I find that kind of writing annoying. Not that I don’t’ enjoy many full-length novels as long as the writing is compelling and the story moves along.

Do deadlines help or hinder your muse?

Now that I’m retired, deadlines are a major force in focusing my attention where it needs to be. Since I now have more discretionary time, it’s easy to get distracted. Deadlines are a good way to stay focused on the next thing. Of course, I always have several manuscripts working at a time, so the one with the first deadline gets the most attention. Unless the characters are yelling at me, that is. Then the one who shouts the loudest often requires getting onto the page, if only to shut them up!

GHOST WRITER

When unemployed computer programmer Nan Burton inherits a California beach cottage from her great-great-aunt, she’s delighted. But she’s in for a huge surprise: The house is haunted by the ghost of famous romance writer Max Murdoch (pen name Maxine DuBois) who insists Nan complete his last novel, threatening to keep her from sleeping until she agrees. The ensuing clash pits youth against the long-dead but still egotistical author with humorous and moving results.

Publisher / Amazon

Welcome the Soul Seducer, Alicia Dean!

Alicia Dean loves creating spine-chilling stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats. She's a huge Elvis Presley fan, and loves MLB and the NFL. If you look closely, you'll see a reference to one or all three in pretty much everything she writes. If she could, she would divide all her time between writing, watching her favorite television shows-such as Dexter, Vampire Diaries, Justified, and True Blood-and reading her favorite authors...Stephen King, Dennis Lehane, Michael Connelly, Lee Child, and Lisa Gardner to name a few.

It's good to have you back Alicia. Could you please start by telling us a little about yourself?

I write romantic suspense and paranormal romance. I’ve self-published, published through The Wild Rose, published through a traditional publisher, and I’m currently a launch author for Adams Media’s new romance line. I’m a proud member of The Oklahoma Romance Writers of America and Heartland Area Romance Authors. I have three grown kids. I live in Edmond, Oklahoma where I’m a legal assistant for a family law firm by day.

Please tell us your latest news!

I’m very excited about my latest release, Soul Seducer. It’s a paranormal romance that’s one of the launch books for Adams Media’s new Crimson Romance line.

How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?

They’re very proud and supportive. Yes, they read my books. My sisters, my cousins, and my nieces read all the books I release. (Well, SOME of my cousins do. I have about a million, so not all of them read my stuff <g>)

What are your hobbies?

I love playing golf, although I haven’t in a long time. I love watching my favorite tv shows, major league baseball, and the NFL.

If you had to choose one person to have dinner with, who would it be? And why?

Stephen King. It would be scary yet exciting, and I would love the opportunity to learn from him, to pick his brain and hopefully, have some of his genius rub off on me.

What would be the best way for readers contact you? Do you have a website?

 Email – AliciamDean@aol.com / Website - http://www.aliciadean.com/

What type of book have you always wanted to write?

A bestseller. J

Do deadlines help or hinder your muse?

They help. No doubt. Tremendously. If I have a deadline, even if it’s just an upcoming critique meeting, I’m much more productive.

What was your first published work and when was it published?

My first published work was Nothing to Fear with The Wild Rose Press in 2007. I’ll be forever grateful to them for giving me my first opportunity. It’s the second book I wrote, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

Is there anyone who really mentored or inspired you to keep writing until you were finally published? 

Definitely. Multi-published author, Mel Odom. I took a class with him in Sept, 2001, and that was when I began seriously pursuing publication. I completed my first novel while taking classes with him. He taught me so much about how to work hard to become a better writer and gave me the drive and encouragement to never give up. I consider him my mentor, but he doesn’t like that. It makes him feel old, and we’re the same age. J

She spent her entire life fighting death. Now she’s falling in love with him…

Audra Grayson became a nurse in order to help save lives. But one night after a brutal beating, she almost loses her own. The near-death experience opens a door between the world of the living and the world beyond. Two Grim Reapers invade her life. One is charming, with the angelic blonde looks of a saint and the black soul of a psychopath. The other is dark, dangerously attractive and, in spite of her distaste for his reaper duties, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to him.

When Audra's patients begin to die unexpectedly and her loved ones are threatened, she will risk her life—even her soul—to save them. But can she risk her heart to an inhuman being whose very purpose is to take those she is trying to save?

Amazon / B&N / Publisher / iTunes

Please welcome Oklahoma author, Kathy Wheeler.

Kathy was born in Presque Isle, Maine.  How she ended up in Texas, Colorado, then Oklahoma is as much a mystery to her as anyone.  She graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a BA in Management Information Systems and a minor in Vocal Music.

In the big picture, she has not been writing near as long as some of her writing cohorts, but has already completed a number manuscripts.  An avid traveler, she’s been to Europe, Mexico, Canada and roams from one RWA conference to another, nationwide.  She’s served several positions in the Oklahoma Outlaws RWA Chapter.

Kathy lives with her musically talented husband in Edmond, Oklahoma, has one grown daughter and one bossy cat!

Could you please start by telling us a little about yourself?

I am an avid pro football and basketball fan. As an eight year member of jazzercise, I’m lucky that on occasion, two of my favorite interests interconnect where jazzercise is privileged to perform at the OKC Thunder Halftime show once per year. My degree is a Bachelors in Management Information Systems with a minor in vocal music. So…yes, I love karaoke and musical theater as well.

Please tell us your latest news!

I have nine completed manuscripts that includes a Cinderella series in which the glass slipper fits one of Cinderella’s evil stepsisters. Book I – The Wronged Princess was released March 31^st, and is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Smashwords. Three other books, contemporaries, are under contract. For more information, see http://klwheeler.com

Do you plan all your characters out before you start a story or do they develop as you write?

My characters plan themselves, I’m afraid. Usually nothing I plan for them comes out as I’d envisioned. They just sort of take over. Yes, I believe I am certifiable.

How does your family feel about having a writer in the family? Do they read your books?

It ranges in variation. My husband is very supportive but does not read my stories. However, if one were to read the Epilogue in Amanda Quick’s, With This Ring, they would see exactly my husband.  My sisters, sister-in-law, mother and daughter, all read and critique my stories.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I was looking through the Google prompts and saw “What if Cinderella’s slipper fit one of the evil stepsister’s?” I was hooked.

What main genre do you write in?

I love reading historical (mostly Regency, some Medieval), but the historical never came to me, except in the Book I of my Cinderella Series, but then I started on a second, then a third and finally a fourth.  My other five stories are contemporary with an element of suspense. One of which is scheduled for a June 13^th release through Wild Rose Press, called The Color of Betrayal. Two others through Soul Mate Publishing, Quotable and Maybe It’s You.

What is your writing process?

Do you outline, fly by the seat of your pants or a combination of both? My process is simple. I have an idea and start writing. Usually, I begin with dialogue. As my fingers fly across the keyboard, things may come to me so I’ll list questions or comments at the end of the document prefaced by: don’t forget blah blah blah.

If you could be one of your characters - Who would you be? And why?

Several of my character are, uh, very direct, in your face, women, who demand attention. I don’t really think it’s a matter of being one of the characters as much as it is, they are a part of me. Two come to mind: Pricilla, of The Unlikely Heroine – Book II; and Lorianne in Maybe It’s You. Scary.

Who is your perfect hero? And why?

I recently read Tessa Dare’s new release A Week To Be Wicked. The hero, Colin Sandhurst, was adorable. His sense of adventure and humor, masked to cover his fears and insecurities left me panting.

What is the best and worst advice you have ever received?

The best advice comes from my husband. Advice I’ve used and forwarded. The first time he relayed it to me was when I was in college (I was a late bloomer). He said, “The time is going to come and go anyway.”  Meaning, if you keep plugging away, it’s going to happen. And sure enough — I have nine completed manuscripts, and three are under contract.

The WrongedPrincess - Book I

Even when Cinderella loses her glass slipper, she feels quite smug when Prince Charming announces to his kingdom, he'll try the shoe on every maiden until he finds his mysterious princess. Unfortunately, it slides just as easily on her sister, Esmeralda's dainty foot.

             

 Quotable
GENNA LYNDSEY is not a people person. A short, too-skinny, wild haired waif, with crazy hair and sturdy nerdy glasses lives through books. So it’s lucky she and her best friend own their own bookstore. Her college days taught her that dating was too unreliable to depend on others. It was then that she started resorting to obscure quotes to shield herself from others who ventured too close.
RICK JOHNSON, Fraud Insurance Claims Investigator, is assigned to look into an unusual number of claims filed by Genna Lyndsey. He suspects Genna of sabotaging her own property for insurance money. His investigation uncovers an adorable introvert determined to keep everyone at bay, while someone else resolves to put her out of business—no matter how great the risk.

Maybe It's You

How can a girl who’s been rejected by Once Upon A Time ever believe that happily-ever-after even exists? Co-bookstore owner Lorianne Gentry is branded by deep-seeded insecurities. Abandonment issues surface when she finds herself falling in love—totally pissing her off.
Ashton Turner III is nobody’s Knight-In-Shining-Armor. He’d jumped off that horse a long time ago­—the sex, however, was damn good. And when Lorianne’s grandmother delivers Ash life-altering news, his past explodes into the present.

~ Coming Soon ~