A Talk with Stephen L. Brayton

Stephen's a litte more serious than yesterday's guest.
And he can follow directions.

 1. What drew you to the subject of Night Shadows?

I sometimes listen to a radio program that features subjects of the paranormal, supernatural, a little science, astronomy, etc. This particular night the host and guest discussed shadow creatures. Immediately, my creative juices started to burble or flow or whatever creative juices tend to do. I asked myself, “What if the shadows killed people?” Then I answered, “Cool!” The homicide investigator’s character came first followed soon after with the F.B.I. agent. A little research, a little shifting around of scenes, and ta-da, Night Shadows.

2. Did you encounter any obstacles in researching it?

I used many places around the Des Moines metro area and I visited each one to get realistic descriptions. Soon, I had all but one place located. I still needed a place to put the portal from which the shadows emerge. I searched for months looking at various places. A cemetery, a downtown art project, the skywalk. (I made a security guard a little suspicious with my poking around in stairwells, looking into corners, and such). Finally, a friend suggested an art exhibit in one of the Principal owned buildings. I booked a tour and when we entered the room, I knew I had found the place. The room actually exists and the public can view the ‘window’ that is used in the book. Whether it is actually an inter-dimensional portal, well, one never knows…

3. What was the name of the first novel you wrote? Did you try to publish it?

I had an idea for a high school classmates tribute series, whereby the main character, years after graduation, visits each of his classmates to reestablish the bond they had all formed back in school. Each book would be a different adventure based upon the type of job each classmate had. I wanted the first story to contain a love interest and then to have the love interest end up partnering with the main character throughout the stories. I actually completed the story and it’s sitting in a box in the closet. This was many years ago before I discovered editing, critique groups, and the work authors needed to do to be published. By then I was onto other stories. Who knows, though, I may dig out the story one day…

4. How many rejections have you received?

I printed out every email rejection and kept the ones I received in the mail. (including the two I received after I was contracted with Echelon and almost two years after I sent the query. I have a stack about three inches thick of rejections. (Rubber banded, of course.)

5. What’s your writing schedule?

I have loads of free time at work since my hours are 11p-7a. I rarely see anyone. I will either write at the beginning of the night, or near the end of the shift. I’m in the middle of a rewrite and I’m taking it a chapter at a time. However, I’m stalled on it so I jumped to another project and am writing, again, about a chapter at a time.

6. What three things would you want with you on a desert island?

I only get to pick three? Shucks, that means I have to narrow it down to Miss May, Miss October, and…oops, sorry about the pig part of me rearing up again. Let’s see. Well, first I’d have to have enough food to last however long I was forced to stay on the island and I’m not talking K-rations, either. I’d love to take all my books I have yet to read. Finally, since we’re playing “What if…” well, yeah, I guess I gotta go with an attractive woman willing to share the island with me.

7. What’s your favorite food?

Seafood – crabs, oyster, lobster, catfish. My best meal was a crab boil at my relatives who live in Raceland, Louisiana. They put the crabs and other goodies in a big cooker, then dumped the whole mess onto newspaper covered tables. We all pulled ourselves up to the proverbial trough and snarfed till we could snarf no more.

8. What do you do when you are not writing?

Fishing, taekwondo, reading (duh!), and I’d really love to get back to playing racquetball, but I dropped my membership at the Y and they have the only courts in town. I’m also a book reviewer for Suspense magazine.

9. What is your favorite writing reference book and why?

The Novelist Boot Camp by Todd Stone. It has everything from developing plots and creating characters to editing drills. I attended part of his seminar at the Love Is Murder conference back in ’07. I refer to the book when I’m in the rewrite/editing stage.

10. What was your favorite scene to write?

There is a scene where these two guys enter a strip bar, watch the shows, decide to purchase time in private rooms, and end up being casualties when the shadows attack. Yes, the strip bar is based on a real one in Des Moines although I change the name and description. I liked writing the scene because it has a little bit of humor before the blood starts flowing. Oh, I also enjoyed the scene in the library where I kill off a critique group. I couldn’t resist.

A Chat with Sean Hayden

Sean was supposed to only answer ten. He answered them all. Enough said. LOL. I edited some out.

1. When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

When I set down the last piece of crap I had been reading. I couldn't even get through it. It was that bad. I remember thinking to myself, "Sheesh, my beagle could have written a better story with more intriguing characters." That cinched it for me. I wanted to be a writer!

2. How did you pick the genre you write in?

You don't pick your genre. Your genre picks you. It's your love, it's your life, it's what you read when you have the time. You would naturally write what you would read.

3. Do you plot or do you write by the seat of your pants?

Lists are the devil. Planning is for fools. The road to hell is paved with good intentions. People who outline and plot creep me out a little more than clowns do. I couldn't plan a birthday party, let alone a novel. I write as I go.

4. Did you encounter any obstacles in researching it?

Rewhat?

5. What do you know now that you are published that you didn’t know pre-published that you wish you knew?

The meaning of life. The value of a dollar. The Easter Bunny is real. And that if you're an unpublished author, the odds of getting an agent to read your manuscript about vampires are pretty much even with getting your Aunt Mildred to stop pinching your cheeks. Not gonna happen.

6. What was the best writing advice someone gave you?

I before E except after C. I still screw up Reciept. Recepit. Receipt?

Any hoo. That and never give up. If you write a novel and you're happy with it. Chances are someone will want to read it.

7. Why did you pick the publisher that ultimately published your book?

They said "YES"?

8. If you could ask your readers one question, what would it be?

How come nobody wears argyle socks anymore?

(From Chris: I have a pair of argyle socks I wear on a regular basis.)

9. If you have a day job, what is it?

I'm a fiberoptic engineer for a local cable company. Basically it means I melt very tiny pieces of glass together and draw pretty pictures with my computer on very expensive software.

10. Describe your book.

Well. It's shiny and orange and made out of paper.

Oh, and it's an urban fantasy/horror about vampires and werewolves and demons, oh my.

11. What do you consider your strengths in terms of your writing?

My sense of humor. My books will make you laugh while they make you cringe.

12. What do you consider your weakness and what strategies do you use to overcome it?

I have to have coffee while I write. I'm entering a twelve step program to curb my addiction and overcome my dependency on bean juice. Nobody should have to write all jacked up on the java.

13. What’s your writing schedule?

When I can, where I can, and as much as I can.

14. What’s your favorite quote?

"Do unto others. Then Run"~unknown

15. What authors do you admire?

Ones that write in foreign languages. Sheesh. That takes a lot of hard work. I can barely ask where the bathroom is in Spanish.

16. What is your favorite word?

Fern. It just sounds funny. Say it with me now, "F-E-R-N." Yeah, I giggle every time I say it.

17. What place that you haven’t visited would you like to go?

Hell. I live in Florida, how hot can the motherland be?

18. What’s your favorite thing about your book?

The royalties. Okay, that was shallow and true and I apologize. Let's pick something else. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Yeah. The words?

19. What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

GETTING THE STORY OUT OF MY HEAD!

Omg. That hurt.

20. Who is your favorite character in your book?

Ashlyn's Demon Daddy, Asmodeus. Say that fast three times.

21. Where do you write?

On a computer? Ick, pen and paper is soooooooo seventeenth century.

22. What was the hardest scene to write?

When Ashlyn woke up on the morgue table, had her breasts peeled back, her ribs spread open, and had to pull herself together. Literally. I don't have breasts, so the whole scene was awkward for me to write.

Author Bio:

Currently Trapped in the world of Fiberoptic Engineering, Author Sean Hayden decided to branch out and start writing. It has always been a hobby of his, but he didn't pen his first full length novel until two years ago. Since then he has had a slew of stories to share and is currently being published by Echelon Press. He lives at home with his wife, two children, and an ark-full of pets.

Book Blurb:

Ashlyn Thorn was born different. Born with all the characteristics of a vampire, she lives in a world where vampires, elves, and werewolves work, play, and die side by side with normal humans. But everyone knows vampires aren’t born, they’re made. The only thing she wants is to know her true origins.

Ashlyn’s quest to discover the truth of her differences is all that matters. But with every answer, she uncovers more uncertainties. To make things worse she has found herself an enemy of the most powerful vampires of the city who fear her powers are too dangerous to let go unchecked.

Salvation comes at the hands of the government, or does it, who trains her in the ways that best serve their purposes. Ashlyn is torn between two worlds. She can either be a monster, or she can help destroy the monsters.

What the heck was I thinking?

What the Heck was I Thinking?

Nearly fifteen years ago I wanted desperately to own a bookstore. I've always been fond of books, okay, obsessed would be a better word. Well, my boyfriend (now husband) went right out and bought me one. I learned a valuable lesson. Owning and running are two very different things. We owned the store for about five years, during which time I somehow ended up starting a publishing house. I had already been published at that point, so it seemed like a logical progression.

A year or so into that, the bookstore went by the wayside and I jumped from the frying pan directly into the publishing fire.

At first things went pretty easy, then it was kinda like the bookstore, I discovered it was a lot easier owning a publishing company than running one. But by the time I figured that out, I was hooked. I couldn't quit if I wanted to. Thing is, now, almost eleven years later, I have no desire to quit. I have fallen hopelessly and totally obsessed with publishing. I love discovering new authors and introducing them to readers. It's like riding a roller coaster for me. The ups and downs, something hits, something misses, I find a great story and the author is horrible. Or I find a fabulous author and they need to learn so much more about the craft.

The hardest part about being a publisher is not having the time to write anymore. I was a reader first, then an author, then a bookseller, then a publisher. During all of this I have managed to keep my proverbial pen in the ink, but it has not been an easy or satisfying compromise.

I miss writing. I miss having the voices in my head talk to me. Okay, they still do, but I spend most of the time ignoring them because I just don't have time to focus on my own stuff. I have responsibilities to my authors and I feel horribly guilty if I don't put all my efforts into them.

So when do I write? Well, I was just driving from Orlando to Jacksonville and inspiration struck so I had hubby, who was sitting in the passenger seat, get out the pen and paper and make some notes before I forgot them.

The balancing act is hard and the writing usually takes a backseat, but recently I've had more people discovering my old books and stories and they are actually buying my work, so I am trying to squeeze in an hour or so of writing every couple of days. I will admit to being extremely jealous of those people who can take the time to write. I will also say that I find it difficult to keep the story ideas at bay. I am cursed with a very vivid imagination and I come up with at least two new story ideas a day, but most of them I just ignore and try to make them go away because I know I won't have the time to flesh them out and write them.

My question for you is, have you read my books or short stories? What do you think? If you have not, today is your lucky day. I just put up a revised version of short I wrote back in 2003. You can read "Devlin's Wicked Wish," a romantic holiday time travel for FREE. I know, right. FREE!

The moon is bright and love is in the air, but Devlin Wilde has no time for it. Nor does he give much thought to what might be missing from his empty life, until a New Orleans' voodoo priestess offers him the deal of a lifetime--love--a hundred years in the future. "Bring my true love to me."

Level-headed Alayna Pedrieux never expected the wish she'd jokingly made during a Halloween ball to come true. But it had. Standing in her foyer was a man as handsome as the devil, and insisting he's been brought forward in time.

Together, Devlin and Alayna realize true love can exist, but to keep it one of them would have to give up everything.

The easiest place is http://tinyurl.com/kls-dww-smash. If you download it, I'd love to k now what you think.

Karen L. Syed is the president and COO of Echelon Press, LLC. Every day is a new success story for her as she continues to grow herself and her business. She has seen seven of her own novels published (writing as Alexis Hart), along with numerous articles and short stories. As a former bookstore owner, she garnered a nomination from Publishers Weekly for their Bookseller of the Year award. She is committed to helping and encouraging everyone she comes in contact with to seek a healthier and more positive quality of life by reaching for their dreams.

Her newest fascination has taken root in the Steampunk industry. This tremendously interesting genre based in the Victorian era is helping to feed a minor obsession with the time period. She is currently embarking on her own Steampunk series called Petticoat Junction. With more than a quarter of a century experience in the book industry, she hopes this one will propel her into the bestseller category. Time will tell.

You can learn more about Karen Syed at http://klsyed.com.

Summer Sizzles with Imajin Books!

'Summer Sizzles with Imajin Books' this July & August

EDMONTON, AB, July 1, 2011 - This summer, from July 1st to August 31st, celebrate the opening of the innovative Canadian publishing company, IMAJIN BOOKS. Our huge summer event will begin on July 1, 2011 and we'll be rewarding readers and book reviewers. This is our way to say "Thank you" for reading our books.

Great things come in threes! 

So we have 3 ways you can help us celebrate:

1. Summer eBook Sale: July 1-July 31

All ebooks on sale for $2.99 or less, via Amazon or Smashwords only. Check out www.imajinbooks.com for quick links, coupon codes and more info.

2. Summer Reviewer Giveaway: July 1-August 31, 2011

Rules:

·         Borrow an Imajin Books title (ebook or paperback) from a friend or lending site, or buy from your favourite retailer. Then post a review on Amazon, B&N or Goodreads. Only reviews posted between July 1, 2011 and August 31, 2011 qualify.

·         Email us with the links to your reviews.

·         You'll receive 1 free ebook of your choice (from our titles). No obligation to review your ebook prize.

·         1 Mystery Prize valued at $120 (minimum) will be given away to one lucky winner.

·         Anyone, anywhere, 18+, can enter this giveaway. Void where prohibited. No purchase necessary. No cash value.

·         Imajin Books authors, their families and any subcontracted associates of Imajin Books are excluded from this contest.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive free ebooks and news on upcoming and new releases. Tell your friends and family to join us this summer.

3. Summer Sizzler Scavenger Hunt: Aug 1 - Aug 31 ~ Win ebooks or a Kindle ereader!

To enter:

1. Check out our Scavenger host list and click on each blog link.

2. Scavenge through these blogs until you find our Scavenger Hunt badge/graphic, which we'll unveil on August 1st at www.imajinbooks.com.

3. Email us at imajinbooks@shaw.ca with "Scavenger Hunt" in subject line and the website link to the page with the badge you found, your name, mailing address and phone number, plus the title of the ebook you would like to receive if your name is drawn.

4. Each correct entry counts as an extra entry into our prize draws, so the more you find the badge and send us those links, the more chances you have of winning the Kindle.

Prizes:

·         31 winners will receive one ebook of their choice from our published titles.

·         4 winners will received a signed novel (trade paperback) by authors Alison Bruce, Melodie Campbell, Cherish D'Angelo and Cheryl Kaye Tardif.

·         Grand Prize: Kindle with Wi-Fi ($140 value): One grand prize winner (Kindle) to be selected from all eligible entries. Additional prizes may be added later.

This contest runs Aug 1 to Aug 31. Winners will be notified by email by September 3rd.

Entrant must be 18 to enter and be a Canadian or USA citizen. No purchase necessary.

No substitution, no refunds, no cash value. The grand prize is not redeemable in cash and must be accepted as awarded.

Imajin Books authors, their families and any subcontracted associates of Imajin Books are excluded from this contest.

Void where prohibited by law.

Imajin Books is an innovative, unique Canadian publisher with an eye on exciting, ever-changing trends and opportunities in publishing that opened its 'doors' to authors worldwide in late February 2011. They promise great reads by wonderful authors, with ebooks priced under $5 and trade paperbacks under $16.

From ImajinBooks.com: The future of reading is ebooks, and the future is NOW!

http://www.imajinbooks.com

Disclaimer: Imajin Books is not associated in any way to the US company ImaJinn Books.

Authorsday: Danielle Ackley-McPhail

1. How did you pick the genre you write in? Blame it on my brother-in-law, Scott Miller, Sr., Esquire. I lived with him and my sister one summer and didn’t have the regular access to the library that I did when I was at home. All they had in the house was law books, nursing books, and science fiction and fantasy. Before that I used to jump around all over the place in the types of books I read. After that, almost exclusively fantasy and sci fi. Given that, no surprise that is what I ended up writing. Of course, my high school English teacher, Gene Miller (no relation) had a little to do with it also. He was big on mythology (or maybe the curriculum was that year) and I loved playing with theories of how the myths developed, which helped train my mind to devise fantastic themes in my writing.

2. Do you plot or do you write by the seat of your pants? Oh, I’m definitely a pantser. No patience for an outline, and when I have written—or tried to write—one, it is almost always obsolete in short order. I rather have the story and the characters direct where the book is going, there is more life in it that way.

3. What was the name of the first novel you wrote? Did you try to publish it? Yesterday’s Dreams, and not only did I try and publish it, I succeeded…twice! Now granted, the first publisher wasn’t a very good one, but it did get me started on this journey, so I can’t complain too much. But only because I was lucky. I should have done more research rather than taking the first deal to come along. Still…live is all about learning, and I’ve certainly done that! Yesterday’s Dreams is currently with Mundania Press.

4. How many rejections have you received? You know…I don’t count rejections. Seems counterproductive to me. It certainly wouldn’t encourage me to go on to know how many people didn’t like what I write. To me the only importance a rejection has is that it lets me know it’s time to send the story somewhere else.

5. If you have a day job, what is it? I’m a masochist… I work in publishing. You know what that means? I get to work twice as hard for half the pay nearly sixteen hours a day. Had a teacher try and warn me away from working in publishing. I told him I wasn’t doing it for the money, I was doing it because I loved books. I still do…but man, what I wouldn’t give for more than a little bit of money now and then!

6. Describe your book. That’s a trick question, right? Sorry…I have three novels, one writers’ guide, and I’ve lost count of the anthologies. I’ll tell you about the most recent, shall I? That would be The Literary Handyman: Tips on Writing from Someone Who’s Been There. It’s a departure from my fiction in that it is usable by those who write genre and those that do not, though I do use genre references and some of the essays (chapters) are specifically about genre topics. Overall, though, it is a series of essays written in a conversational, and some say, witty tone. Basically what I have learned over sixteen years working in publishing, ten of which have been as a published author. What I am most proud of with this book is that it isn’t a how-to, but rather advice that the writer can apply to their own style. Also, it is on both the craft and the business of writing, which most guides don’t generally cover. Included as a bonus are a series of about ten writing exercises I have used in various workshops over the years that help the writer to apply the advice to their writing.

7. What did you enjoy most about writing this book? Mostly I enjoyed that it was so easy to write! When I am writing about…well…writing, it comes very easy to me. It really is a conversation and so I can relax and joke and still share what I have come to understand about this often frustrating business. If I can make things just a little bit easier for someone just getting started, I’m happy.

8. What do you consider your strengths in terms of your writing? Characterization and imagery, definitely. My stories and novels tend to be character-driven and my writing style lyrical. I believe very much in engaging all of the senses at one point or another so most of my stuff has a bit more detail than you might expect, but not at the expense of pacing. Dialogue would have to be my other strength…not sure why, but it has always come naturally to me, which is ironic given that I kept to myself a lot growing up.

9. What place that you haven’t visited would you like to go? With the exception of Ireland, I haven’t really been anywhere so it would be difficult to find a place I wouldn’t want to go to. However, I particularly would enjoy going to Australia because it is so very different than my own environment and the culture is rich and interesting. Now there is a mythology I would love to explore close up! Of course, it doesn’t hurt that I have several friends that live there that I’ve never met face-to-face…that would be nice as well!

10. Who is your favorite character in your book? Well, no characters in The Literary Handyman (unless you count me) but I have two favorites from my novels. In both Yesterday’s Dreams and Tomorrow’s Memories it is the character Beag Scath, a pixie with a very mischievous personality and endearing mannerisms. One of the reasons he is my favorite is that he appeared on the page with little help from me, his personality is his own and I merely uncover it. The other favorite character I have is Smear from The Halfling’s Court: A Bad-Ass Faerie Tale and he is notable to me because he is so much fun to write. He is a road gremlin and as with many faerie legends, he resembles his environment, blending in until you would scarcely know he was there…until he wanted you to. Now, he isn’t a nice character, but he is very distinct and as individual in his own way as Beag Scath is…which ironic because there can be millions of tiny Smears, or one big one, all the same entity.

Author Bio

Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for over sixteen years. Her works include Yesterday's Dreams, Tomorrow's Memories, and The Halfling’s Court: A Bad-Ass Faerie Tale, and the non-fiction writers guide, The Literary Handyman. She edited the Bad-Ass Faeries anthology series, and Dragon’s Lure, and has contributed to numerous other anthologies.

She is a member of The Garden State Horror Writers, the NJ Authors Network, and Broad Universe. She can be found on LiveJournal (damcphail, lit_handyman), Facebook (Danielle Ackley-McPhail), and Twitter (DMcPhail). To learn more, visit www.sidhenadaire.com or www.badassfaeries.com. 

Book Blurb

Success in publishing is equal parts skill, determination, knowledge, and pure, dumb luck. If you have the drive, and you have the skill, but you're missing that little bit of insight into the industry, this book might just be the edge you're looking for.

(For the luck...you're on your own.)

Crack the cover to learn more about effective dialogue, the difference between the major publishers and small press, self-promoting, naming characters, avoiding procrastination... and so many other demons that haunt the aspiring author.

Also includes a series of writing exercises to help you to apply the information gained in the book.

Special Guest: Jennifer Etherton of Jennifer Etherton Literary Services

The Secrets to Finding and Retaining the Right Agent

In today’s industry, an author can only go so far on his or her own. Eventually you will need to seek representation to reach the highest levels. In order to attract an agent there are several steps you will need to follow to be successful. It is also important to remember that it is not enough to follow the right steps; you will also need to learn the secrets to making yourself the best candidate in a stack of submissions.

The first thing that any author needs to realize is that you will need to have the right credits to attract a good agent. It is very rare that any author will be signed with a literary agency without first proving his or herself. The most ideal situation is being previously published through a house in the secondary markets and having solid sales to prove your marketability, short of having this it is still important to have a good published history. This history could include blog posts, anything published on the internet in the form of articles for ezines or other reputable publications, and anything in print is a definite plus. You want to build a solid portfolio to present to an agent. It also helps to have awards to show that you have been recognized by your peers as being worthy of this industry.

Once you have your portfolio in place, it is then important to decide where you want your writing to take you. Do you own research into the market and decide where you would like to fit. Write down your goals and be open to all criticism as to how to get there. While you will not always take all the advice you are given, seriously considering criticism, especially if it comes from an industry insider will help you grow in your craft.

Now that most of the prep work is done it is time to look for an agent. Here is where the real work begins. It is always best to start with a database that will prescreen the agencies in their list; the two best are The Writer’s Market and Literary Market Place. Pick several different agencies that are available and do additional research on each one individually. Be sure that you would be happy with every agency you query instead of waiting until an agent offers you a contract before you do your due diligence. Being lazy in the research stage does not paint you in the best light and could cost you in the end.

When you are ready to query an agent, it is important to follow their submission guidelines exactly. Never give the agent more or less than he or she requests. Agents are very busy individuals and not having the right material for a submission usually leads in an automatic rejection. Those who do not automatically reject any queries that do not meet the guidelines still look at the author in a negative light. To avoid this, be sure that you understand and follow all guidelines exactly while you are seeking representation.

After you have queried many agents there is not much left to do but wait. Some will specifically ask that perspective clients not call to check for updates and if the website makes this request it is important to follow, otherwise if you haven’t heard anything after 3 months check on your submissions status.

If you are contacted by, an agent it is important always put your best foot forward, but do not go overboard. Do not attempt to impress your agent with the people you know, because chances are that it will only make you look like a fool. Again, agents are very busy people and he or she is more concerned with you as an individual and as an artist then who you know. There are several things that the agent is looking for, but it really all comes down to your workability. He or she is trying to decide if you will work with editors well and are able to take constructive criticism

This conversation is not the best place to argue with the agent if he or she tells you that your work is not marketable as is. The very fact that he or she is contacting you is because with a little work you would have a sellable product. Never site major named authors as examples of why you think the agent is wrong, especially if the example is Hemingway or Faulkner. Chances are the response you will get is “you are not him and he doesn’t live in today’s market.”

This first contact before a contract is offered is one of the most crucial times. No agent wants to be stuck with an author with a huge ego, especially if the author is new to the industry. Always put your best foot forward and prove that you are willing to work as hard as necessary to make this relationship a success.

The biggest secret to discover when it comes to attracting the best agent is to just be yourself. It is almost impossible to impress an agent off the page so let your talent speak for itself and let your true personality shine. An agent is in the unique position to look at the entire package, if you prove workable and talented you will be snatched up quickly. On the other hand, if you are talented but difficult you are not only wasting your time but everyone else’s until the ego becomes under control.

Today's Guest is Roseanne Dowell

My characters, Christine Rollins from A Second Chance and Elizabeth Ashley from May I Have this Dance insisted on interviewing each other. I hope you enjoy it.

E: So, Christine, tell me a little about yourself.

C: Well, I’m a fifty-eight year old divorcee and mother of two. Problem is my daughter, who lives next door to me, and my friends insist on fixing me up with every Tom, Dick, and Harry who is widowed or divorced.

E: Aren’t kids great. Why is it everyone thinks we need a man in our lives to be happy?

C: Good question. So tell me about you?

E: I’m a sixty year old widow with one child. Fortunately, she hasn’t tried to fix me up with anyone. I think I made it pretty clear I wasn’t interested.

C: I’m sorry to hear that.

E: Oh don’t be. I lost the love of my life forty-two years ago. I should never have married Harry. So, tell me how you spend your time.

C: I work as a school secretary and fill my evenings with college courses. I was quite content until my son in law’s uncle arrived in town. There I was minding my own business coming home from visiting my son in Florida, and this drop dead gorgeous guy appears at the airport with my daughter and grandchildren.

E: I’m all ears. Do tell.

C: laughs and rolls her eyes. You’re as bad as my daughter. Okay, so he’s handsome and sexy. Lord, I thought I was past that, but this guy woke something in me that I didn’t know was sleeping. Heck, something I didn’t know existed.

E: He sounds fabulous.

C: Oh he is. Not only is he handsome, he’s the kindest, sweetest, most attentive man I’ve ever met.

E: So what happened?

C: My ex came back and asked for a second chance. After two years living with some bimbo. Okay, she wasn’t a bimbo, she was his dental assistant, but still. She was only half his age. Younger than our daughter. Then suddenly there he was standing in my kitchen, begging for another chance. He never begged. Do you have any idea how I longed to hear those words?

E: Did you take him back?

C: Now if I told you that, I’d give away the whole story. But you can find out in my book A Second Chance available from MuseItUp Publishing at: http://bit.ly/asecondchance.

So tell me about the love of your life, Elizabeth. What do you mean you lost him forty-two years ago?

E: Wow, where to start. I guess at the beginning. I met Danny Sullivan in 1955, my coming out year. We were spending the summer at our cottage like we usually did. I was thinking about the fist ball and suddenly there he was. He was so dreamy. I fell instantly in love. Problem was my father didn’t approve of him.

C: Why not?

E: He didn’t come from the right stock. My father’s words not mine.

C: The right stock?

E: Yes, we were wealthy and my father was very old fashioned and strict. I swear he should have been born in the Victorian Era. Unfortunately Danny didn’t come from money.

C: So did Danny work at Lakeview?

E: No his mother passed away and his Godmother, Mrs. James – a very influential woman in Lakeview – took him under her wing and invited him to spend the summer.

C: So what happened?

E: Danny and I hit it off, much to my father’s chagrin and the other parents delight. No one bucks Mrs. James. So needless to say, although my father forbid me from seeing Danny in private – he’d never say anything in public and risk making a scene. So I ignored him. It bothered Danny how some of the older residents treated him. The kids were pretty cool. At least most of them.

C: Wow, you really went against your father.

E: Yeah, until Danny asked me to marry him.

C: What happened then?

E: If I tell you, I’ll spoil the book. You can read about it in May I Have this Dance available from MuseItUp Publishing in July. http://bit.ly/MayIHaveThisDance

Blurb and Excerpt from A Second Chance

Fifty-eight year old, Christine’s family and friends are always trying to play matchmaker, much to her chagrin. When she returns home from a vacation over the Christmas holiday, her daughter introduces her to a sexy, handsome, man. A man, she’s much too attracted to. One she tries to resist, but eventually gives in, and begins to see him on a regular basis. At least she does until her ex husband appears on the scene and wants a second chance at their marriage. 

Excerpt

Steven’s rough hand covered hers, igniting smoldering sparks, starting in the pit of her stomach. Christine groaned inwardly and pulled her hand away, trying to ignore him. Not normally a rude person, but something about him invited it. He annoyed her. His magnetism made her uncomfortable. She hadn’t reacted to a man like this since Tony, and that ended in disaster.

Instead, she focused her attention on Jenna and Richard. “I sure have missed you two.”

She looked at her grandchildren and avoided Steven’s eyes. Seeing the sign for baggage claim, she headed toward it. “Let’s go. I can’t wait to get home.”

“Can we stop for dinner?” Jenna hooked her arm through Christine’s. Her long blond hair bounced as she kept up the rapid pace Christine set, leaving all but Steven lagging behind.

Christine threw him a sullen look. He lifted an eyebrow and winked at her through long dark lashes. Great, she amused him. Who did he think he was, God’s gift to women? A bit arrogant…but so darn good looking. Stop it, she told herself. She was acting like a fool, why was she letting this man get to her?

“You’re hungry too, aren’t you, Uncle Steve?” Jenna’s voice broke Christine’s thoughts and drew Steven into the conversation as Jenna linked her other arm through his.

Something about her granddaughter’s tone aroused Christine’s suspicions. This sounded like a setup. Playing matchmaker again. Her family and friends had been trying to match her up since Tony divorced her two years ago.

Christine’s stomach growled, reminding her she hadn’t eaten since breakfast. “I suppose we can stop for dinner.” Besides, a restaurant held more appeal than the confines of Lisa’s kitchen with Uncle Steve nearby. If they didn’t stop for dinner, Lisa would expect to fix something.

At the restaurant, Steven held Christine’s chair out before sitting opposite her. Still too close for comfort at the small table. Curious about him, she glanced over the top of her menu. She caught his laughing eyes staring at her. He winked, and she pulled the menu up to hide the blush she knew crept into her cheeks. What drew her to this man?

“Uncle Steve just moved back from New Zealand,” Lisa explained. “Derek and I insisted he stay with us.”

Unsure how to reply, Christine just nodded. Now she knew something was fishy in

Denmark. Lisa had tried to set her up with Derek’s business associates and just about every widower, divorced, or single man she met.

“Uncle Steve’s a confirmed bachelor.” Richard announced loud enough that people from other tables looked at them and smiled.

“Oh...” Christine couldn’t resist this one. “How have you managed to remain single all these years?” So, they were matchmaking again. Well, Mr. Payton, you won’t be single much longer if Lisa has her way. Christine shuddered at the thought. And neither would she. Something told her she was treading on thin ice here. Too darn attractive for his own good, the type of man to break women’s hearts and walk away. Once was enough for her, thank you very much.

“Never found the woman of my dreams.” Steven leaned back and rocked in his chair.

“And I guess I never found a woman with enough patience to put up with me.” He straightened, reached across the table, patted her hand, and grinned.

“And, why haven’t we met you before now?” Christine pulled her hand away and put it on her lap out of his reach. “I thought I met all of Derek’s relatives.”

“I haven’t been back to the states much since my parents passed away, about twenty

years ago. And my job prevented much travel.” His eyes locked on hers as he spoke. “Derek and his mother are the only relatives I have left.”

Christine mumbled an apology and turned her attention to Jenna and Richard. “So what have you two been doing during the holiday break? Skiing, skating?”

Jenna and Richard chattered the rest of the meal, and Christine relaxed and enjoyed them, but she couldn’t keep her gaze from straying to Steven. Of course, sitting across the table from him made it difficult to not look at him. But did she have to openly stare?

Grateful she made it through dinner, and uncomfortable with the feelings Steven stirred

in her, she stood to go. When they reached the car, Lisa handed the keys to her uncle. “You drive, and Mom, you sit in front, and I’ll sit in back with the kids.”

Oh you are clever, Lisa, Christine thought. She would have protested but knew it wouldn’t do any good. Good thing the drive home only took ten minutes. She couldn’t believe Lisa was being so obvious about this. Fortunately, Richard and Jenna were still in a talkative mood, and the ride home passed quickly.

Steven pulled the car into her drive, put it in gear, popped the trunk, and got out. He grabbed her luggage and had it halfway to the door before Christine could protest.

Irritated with his attitude, she followed. He’s sure taking liberties. Who does he think he is? She could handle her own luggage. He’s arrogant and too good looking for his own good. Oh stop it, Christine, she admonished, he’s being helpful, a gentleman, that’s all. What made her think he was interested in her anyway? Like she was so special. He probably acted the same way with all women. With his good looks, she doubted he lacked female companions.

He stopped at the door and waited for her. When he took the key from her hand, opened the door, reached inside, and flipped on a light, a warm sensation began in her stomach, and spread outward as he looked down at her.

Something told her this man was dangerous territory. “Thank you.” Christine’s insides trembled. She hoped her voice sounded calm. Holding her hand out for the key, she wished him away.

“Dinner tomorrow.” He said it as a statement not a question.

She felt her eyes narrow. A habit she never managed to break when someone irked her.

How dare he be so presumptuous? “Sorry, I’m busy.” Closing the door halfway against him, she tried to hide behind it.

He reached up, and combed his fingers through her short blond hair. The small gesture electrified her. She backed away. He chuckled, winked at her, and pulled the door closed behind him.

Darn it all, why was she acting like a silly teenager who had a crush on the football captain? Infuriated at the feelings he instilled in her, she leaned against the door. Her body trembled. From anger or attraction, she wasn’t sure. Christine shook her head, trying to clear it.

Exhausted from her trip, Christine went to bed, trying to erase Steven from her mind. She closed her eyes and visions of his laughing eyes appeared. She turned the pillow, punched it, and closed her eyes again, willing herself to sleep. Darn it, why did that man affect her like this? She tossed and turned through a dream-filled night.

Blurb and Excerpt from May I Have this Dance

Returning to a summer resort in 1997, Elizabeth Ashley sits in the gazebo watching her granddaughter and a young man who reminds her so much of her first love. She fell in love with a boy her stern father didn’t approve of. One who didn’t come from the “right stock” as he put it. Her memory takes her back to 1955. Back to a time when life was fun and she was full of life.

Excerpt from May I Have this Dance

Elizabeth watched a young man chase her granddaughter through the water, while enjoying the coolness of the shaded gazebo and relishing the gentle breeze. So much like that day so long ago. June 4^th 1955, the day forever etched in her memory. Only the splash of the water and sound of gulls broke the silence. The scene brought back a memory so vivid—it could have been yesterday instead of forty-two years ago. Elizabeth pushed her silver-streaked hair from her face, leaned back, closed her eyes, and remembered that summer. A summer when she was young and carefree like her granddaughter.

                                         * * * *

Swaying to imaginary music, Elizabeth held her sundress out to the side and imagined the long flowing gown she’d wear at the ball. Bowing and smiling at an invisible partner, she twirled around the pavilion. Her long dark hair fell forward, covering her face. Tossing it back, Elizabeth laughed aloud and batted her long lashes, pretending to flirt.

“May I have this dance?” A masculine voice startled her into awareness.

Heat burned her cheeks. Embarrassed, Elizabeth turned and ran.

 “Hey, wait.” He ran after her, caught up, and grabbed her arm. “I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Elizabeth stopped, the light pressure of his grip sent a tingling sensation through her, igniting sparks deep inside her. Gathering her composure, she remembered her manners. “Are you new to Lakeview?” Her gaze caught his blue-green eyes and locked.

“Just arrived.” A smile twitched on his lips, as if he wanted to laugh but thought better of it. “Never been to a resort before. I’m staying with my aunt, Melissa James, maybe you know her?”

“Oh, Mrs. James, of course, you’re the nephew. I’m Elizabeth Ashley.” She extended her hand. “Do you live in Ohio?”

“Cleveland, matter of fact. But I’ll be working in New York come fall. How about you?” He took her hand and raised it to his mouth, in an old-fashioned gesture. His gaze never left hers as his lips brushed slowly across the top of her hand. “I’m Danny Sullivan, by the way.” A mischievous gleam twinkled in his eyes.

“Uh…” Pulling her hand away, she tucked it behind her, trying to cool the heat that coursed from her hand through her body. “I have to go.” Elizabeth twisted her hands behind her back, her usual calm reserve shaken. No one had ever caused a reaction in her like this. Her head spun. Her stomach felt like a million butterflies fluttered in it, and her heart throbbed so loud she knew he could hear it.

“Can I see you later?” He matched her quick strides. “Where do you live? I’ll walk you home.”

Elizabeth stared up at him. Lord, he must be six feet tall. She only came to his chest. “No, I mean, uh, I’ll see you around.” She raced off, leaving him to stare after her.

A few minutes later, Elizabeth danced into her room, dreamy eyed. Usually she hated the white, ruffled curtains at the window and the pink bedspread, but not today. Today, it didn’t even bother her that her sister picked everything out for the room. Talk about luck. She had to be one of the first to meet Mrs. James’s nephew. Danny Sullivan. Mrs. Danny Sullivan. Loving the sound of it, silly as it was, she couldn’t help herself. She was in love. Bouncing onto the bed, where her sister laid reading, Elizabeth pulled her knees up to her chest, circled her arms around them and rocked. Sighing loudly, she inhaled the scent of Lily of the Valley perfume, lingering from the morning.

 “Do you have to jump on the bed like that?” Susan slammed her book closed. “If you want to talk to me, why can’t you be like normal people and say so, without trying to get my attention first?”

“Oh, Suse,” Elizabeth ignored her sister’s irritation. “I met the most handsome man. He’s tall with hair the color of an old rusty pail and eyes the shade of sea foam.” Elizabeth stood up and danced around the sun-filled room. “I think I’m in love.”

“You’re always in love. Who is he this time?” Susan set her book aside. “I thought we knew everyone here.”

“His name is Danny Sullivan, Mrs. James’s nephew. Remember, she mentioned him the other night? He’s older and he kissed my hand and called me Beth.” Elizabeth paused for a breath. “No one has ever called me that.” Elizabeth hugged herself and continued to dance. “I can’t wait to see him again. I hope he’s at the ball tomorrow. Maybe he’ll dance with me.”

“Will you be still already and quit babbling.” Susan sat up, her slender body in perfect posture. The two sisters were as different as night and day. Susan, tall, blond, serious, like their father, while Elizabeth, impulsive, petite, and dark haired, favored their deceased mother.

 “Father isn’t going to like this, Liz. You know how he feels about outsiders.”

“Oh quit being such a square! Wait till you see him, Susie. He’s so dreamy.” Elizabeth closed her eyes. Why couldn’t her sister be on her side, just once? “Besides, Father doesn’t like anyone, you know how he is.”