A to Z Blog Challenge: L is for...

Almost halfway done this blog challenge! (But who's counting, right?) :-)

Anyhew, today's blog is brought to you by the letter L.

L is for: Links!!

I thought it would be fun to share some links that I've recently saved to my computer this past week so you all can take a little peek into my life.

You know, not to scare anyone, just for fun. :-) So here goes.

This past Saturday, my church held a women's brunch and our topic was on prayer. The women's ministry asked me to speak (AGAIN!) and I used this link to find some good information to use in my talk.

My neighbor's church was raising money for a missionary trip so I bought a Samaritan card. I saved this link to find out more about it and how in the world I can use it.

A writer friend told me about Romance University, so I saved this link and really liked the info I saw there.

My hubby's b-day is coming up. So I actually saved this link on a snore-reduction pillow and almost ordered one for him. But I thought better of it. (I bought something else instead) :-)

So that's my life this past week summed up in links. :)

What about you? Save any weird links recently you'd like to share?

Superbowl Food, Bargains, and Blogs

MOOD STATUS: "Thankful". So appreciated all the support and congrats on my new book contract. Thank you ALL again!

Let's see. So much to tell you all...

We hosted a Superbowl party at our house yesterday. Over twenty some odd people. Very fun. Lots of food left over. Hubby made a ROCKIN' chili and I made a great Sloppy Buffalo Joe recipe (with ground chicken).
A lot of people mentioned they wanted the recipe on Twitter the other day, and because I aim to please, here goes:


Sloppy Buffalo Joes
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 pounds ground chicken or turkey breast
1 carrot, peeled and chopped or grated
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 to 1/3 cup hot sauce (recommended: Frank's Red Hot)
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup chicken stock NOTE: I would use half the mount, otherwise it's a little too runny
8 good quality burger rolls, split and toasted
1 cup blue cheese crumbles
2 large dill pickles, chopped
Directions
Heat a large skillet with extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add meat and break it up with wooden spoon, cook 5 to 6 minutes. Add in carrots, celery, onions and garlic, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, cook 7 to 8 minutes more. In a bowl combine the vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire, hot sauce, tomato sauce and stock. Pour into the pan and stir to combine. Simmer a few minutes more. Pile sloppy Buffalo filling onto buns and top with blue cheese and chopped pickles. (important) :)
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Oh! My first book THE ROLE OF A LIFETIME will be featured on the bargain book blog today. A $3.44 ebook is a real bargain! :)

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Also, Romance is in the air this week at the Coffee Time Romance Blog! Their theme is romance for Valentine's day and yours truly is one of the featured bloggers. I'll be doing some excerpts and an interview and probably a post too, etc...

**The fun will be going on from noon (EST) to 8PM (EST) TODAY. LOTS of prizes going on.

**Also, if you comment on any of my posts, I will be giving away a box of FUDGE from one of my favorite candy places!

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Anyhew, I have to do P90x today (week five starting today! Woo-hoo!) and then I have a doctor's appointment this morning. Nothing serious. I think...

And that's all for me. Whew!

Did you watch the Superbowl or have a Superbowl party? Any good Superbowl recipes you love or would like to share?

The Perfect Blend by Trish Perry

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Trish Perry

and the book:

The Perfect Blend

Harvest House Publishers (September 1, 2010)

***Special thanks to Karri James of Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Trish Perry is an award-winning writer and editor of Ink and the Spirit, a quarterly newsletter of the Capital Christian Writers organization in the Washington DC area. She has published numerous short stories, essays, devotionals, and poetry in Christian and general market media, and she is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group.


Visit the author's website.




Product Details:

List Price: $9.99
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (September 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736930159
ISBN-13: 978-0736930154

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Steph Vandergrift was jilted in a truly beautiful place.

She focused on her surroundings so she wouldn’t break down and openly sob in front of people passing her on their way to work. Eyes blinking and chin quivering, she desperately sought distraction in the old stone buildings, lush spring greenery, and fragrant wisteria and lavender from the well-tended landscape nearby.

Rick told her she would love Middleburg, one of the most charming little towns in northern Virginia. When he proposed—

She breathed deeply against the urge to wail as if she were at an ancient European funeral.

When Rick proposed, he said she would even love his law firm’s stately, historic building. This was where she sat now, her dark bangs in her eyes. Despite the warm spring air, she huddled outside on the front steps, certain her brain—or surely her heart—would burst if she didn’t stop and collect herself.

A sudden leave of absence. That’s what the receptionist told her. Rick had taken a sudden leave of absence. And Steph knew she was whom he had suddenly left.

She swallowed hard. She stood and dusted off her short flared skirt in an attempt to look nonchalant while she sized up her situation. Where was she going to go? Where? She wiped away a tear, but another one swiftly took its place. She needed to not do this here, in the middle of this quaint old town.

God, what do I do now? Please tell me.

Distraction. She needed another distraction right now.

Across the street a middle-aged woman stepped out the front door of a small building, the white-painted stone of which was gorgeously weathered. She bent to lift a watering can, and her loose blond curls fell forward. She tended to the flower boxes that hung, moss-laden, from green-shuttered front windows. Then she seemed to sense someone watching her. She turned around and smiled at Steph before calling out to her.

“Good morning, dear. Are you all right over there?”

Steph took a few steps away from Rick’s building and tried to look purposeful. She managed to say, “Yes, I—” before her throat seized and then released a torrent of weeping and incoherent babbling.

So much for her stoic resolve.

Within seconds the woman was across the street and at Steph’s side. She smelled like vanilla and strawberries.

“You poor girl. Whatever is the matter?”

Steph tried to speak between heaving sobs. “…were s’posed to elope…left everything…job, family, friends…he’s not here…leave of absence…what…gonna do?” And then full-on wailing obliterated any further at-tempts at communication.

The woman enveloped Steph with her free arm, the other still holding the watering can, and steered her toward the little stone house across the street.

“You just come with me this instant. You mustn’t stand out here all alone like this.”

Yes. That was it. She was all alone. Rick had lured her away from everyone she loved. Everything she knew. She had left them all to marry him. It seemed like such a romantic notion, to elope after her parents had expressed their disapproval of Rick. And then what did the dirtbag do but desert her here?

The enticing smell of fresh-baked bread wafted all around them when they entered the little shop. Despite her anguish Steph sensed a rumble in her stomach. She thought she must be more beast than damsel to actually harbor hope for a pastry or two in the middle of this catastrophe.

“You have a seat right there.” The woman coaxed her into a wicker chair at one of the lace-covered tables in the dining area. “What you need is a nice, soothing cup of chamomile. Just give me a moment.” Before she went too far away, she stepped back to the table and placed a box of tissues within Steph’s reach.

Once Steph was alone again, reality descended. What was she going to do? Granted, she hadn’t walked out on a stellar career. She could get another job selling men’s suits in just about any department store, she supposed. But she didn’t know anyone here in Middleburg. Should she hang her head and drag herself back home to Baltimore? Why had she made such a scene before leaving? She hadn’t quietly sneaked away. No, she had to pull an all-out, in-your-face confrontation with her parents. A dramatic disconnect with her friends and roommates. And all of them had simply been trying to save her from exactly what just happened.

As she had always feared, her judgment was completely whacked. She had forgotten plans for any long-term career once she and Rick became serious. She thought she would spend the rest of her life married to an up-and-coming real estate attorney and raise their two perfect children and faithful dog in this adorable, classy town. Why had she believed that would happen simply because Rick said it would?

“Here we go, dear.”

It finally dawned on Steph that the woman had a faint accent. British? That would fit with this cute little shop, with its delicately flowered wall-paper and elegant china cabinets. The small, framed paintings hanging here and there looked like scenes of the British countryside.

The woman set a serving tray on the table and placed each item in front of Steph. A white porcelain china pot, painted with miniature violets, from which she poured tea into a delicate rose-covered cup and saucer. A plate with a couple of triangular biscuits on it. They smelled like butter and sweetness. And two dainty bowls: one holding strawberry preserves, and the other holding what looked like sour cream.

Steph realized she was able to stop crying as long as she stopped focusing on herself for a moment. She looked up and pressed a tissue against her nose. “Thank you so much. You didn’t have to—”

“No need for that. Go on, now.” The woman gestured at the food and tea and sat down across from Steph. Her gentle blue eyes reminded Steph of her mother during better times. “You’ll feel better if you have a bit to eat and some nice, relaxing tea.”

As soon as Steph lifted one of the biscuits, the woman said, “I’m Millicent Ashford Jewell. Everyone calls me Milly.”

“Steph.” She spoke around an absolutely delicious bite. She rubbed crumbs from her fingers and shook Milly’s hand. “Steph Vandergrift. Thank you for being so kind.”

Milly smiled and put a spoon of the cream on Steph’s plate for her. “Clotted cream. One of God’s great gifts, in my opinion. Marvelous on the scones.”

Clotted cream. Now that sounded downright nasty. But Steph was a self-admitted people pleaser, and she had never been one to ignore God’s great gifts. So she put a little of the cream on her next bite of scone. And then nearly moaned, it was so fantastic.

“But that’s just really thick whipped cream!”

Milly said, “I think you like it, right?”

“I love it.”

Milly stood. “I have a few matters to tend to in the kitchen. Feel free to walk back and get me if you need me. We don’t stand on ceremony around here.”

The shop door opened as Steph swallowed a sip of tea. She followed Milly’s delighted gaze toward the door and took another nibble of scone. Mmm. “Absolutely yummy.”

A crooked smile spread across the face of the young man who walked through the door. He looked directly at Steph and acted as if her comment were all about him. With a lift of his eyebrows and a tilt of the head, he said, “Well, thank you very much.”

Milly laughed and approached him. They hugged each other.

“Welcome back, stranger,” Milly said. “How was vacation?”

Steph didn’t pay much attention to their conversation after that. The man seemed to be in a hurry, which was fine by her. Otherwise she feared Milly might want to introduce them. She’d rather a man that attractive not look at her too closely right now.

Steph watched his warm brown eyes, which never seemed to lose their smile. She noticed he never once messed with his short, tousled blond hair or fussed with anything else about his looks. Yet, when he walked with Milly toward the kitchen, Steph saw how perfectly, yet casually, he was dressed and groomed.

Her heart was broken, thanks to Rick’s wimpy, childish retreat from her life. But Milly’s chamomile tea and warm scones made her feel a little better. And despite her circumstances and the many question marks in her immediate future, she was still able to appreciate a good-looking man. She leaned sideways to watch him at the kitchen door until he disappeared from view. He and Milly were out of earshot, so Steph surprised only herself when she whispered it again.

“Absolutely yummy.”

REVIEW: This is not my first Trish Perry book, but I think it's my favorite. This was a really sweet kind of book that makes you want to curl up in your Snuggie with a cup of tea and pray the family gives you an hour of peace while you read. And speaking of tea, most of the setting takes place in a tea shop, where the heroine would help whip up yummy treats. So my one complaint is that this book made me hungry while I read. LOL But fear not, there are some wonderful recipes in the back of the book that add to the whole charm. :)

GIVEAWAY: If you are interested in winning a free copy of Trish Perry's book, THE PERFECT BLEND, for yourself, please leave a comment below.
You may leave a comment anytime from now until Sunday 11:59PM (EST).
Winner will be announced this Monday.

Have a GREAT weekend!

Special Guest Blogger!

Hey, all!
I'm still playing catch-up with being away this weekend, so I'm very honored to have a special guest blogger today!
Please welcome author Maria Zannini!
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My most loyal fans can't read, yet they've stuck with me through every mood a writer can face. The one I could always count on was a black and gray herding dog called Chelly.

She was always under my desk, next to my feet and never far from a potential scratch behind the ears.

Chelly died two years ago and words cannot express the hole she left behind. But Tank, my 130 pound Rottweiler took her place as head foot warmer and kissy monster. Since he's such a big boy he lays in the corridor leading up to my office, making sure nothing gets in or out without his approval.

Tank was best friends with Chelly so whenever he hears her name he raises a brow in subtle expectation. Still, he knows she's not coming back. For a long time I thought so too.

It had been a terrible night of edits for True Believers, my mojo had taken a hike and it seemed as if I had lost all ability to string three coherent words together. I was angry, frustrated and tired. I closed my eyes for a moment then opened them when I thought I heard something under my desk.

(If you follow my blog, you know I live in an area where it's important to ALWAYS know what is advancing on your pinky finger—or toes.)

I looked down and saw a dog-sized shadow hop over my feet.

No dog. Just the shadow.

I stared at the floor as my brain tried to reason what I had just seen. Chelly was the only dog who ever sat under my desk. And it was normal for her to lightly jump over my feet just before I pushed away from the computer.

Was she still with me?

All the stress from editing melted away and I sat there waiting for a sign that she was still here.

I called her name and Tank came bounding into the room and gave me a big sloppy kiss before laying his giant head on my lap. I scratched his ears and asked him if he'd like a cookie.

He looked at me like I was an idiot. "Of course, I want a cookie!" (I happen to be very fluent in Dog.)

We got up to liberate the promised cookie and I turned back one more time to peek under my desk.

I can't help thinking Chelly's still with me, trotting behind me as close as my shadow.

Something tells me, she never left.

I miss my girl, but I still have Tank and now we've been joined by Iko, otherwise known as my penance on Earth. But that's another story—one that requires alcohol for the telling.


Tell me about your pet. How long has s/he been with you? Does he keep you company when you read or write?

***

Maria Zannini's latest release is a science fiction romance called TRUE BELIEVERS.


Mix one cynical immortal and one true believer and throw them into the biggest alien-hunt the world has never known. Rachel Cruz is a Nephilim masquerading as an archaeologist and she's stuck with an alien who believes she can lead him to his ancestral gods. Black Ops wants to find these gods too. They want them dead.

Follow Maria here:

Blog
Facebook

Goodreads
Twitter

Contest time! Every time you leave a comment, tweet or mention "Maria Zannini" anywhere with a link to my blog, your name goes in the hat for a chance to win a Texas sized prize. Go here for more information.

PS And if you're a real pal, you'll go to RT Reviews and vote for my novel, MISTRESS OF THE STONE. Go on. You know you want to. And if you vote for me, I'll love you forever.

Back from DC!

MOOD STATUS: "Exhausted". Very little sleep and lots of walking on this recent weekend trip to DC.

Hi, all! Thank you so much for stopping by Diane Estrella's blog for a chance to win a copy of my book. She will have the results of the book win and all the other winners of her giveaways over on her blog today. :)

Friday, after I posted on my blog about her contest, I left town on a little trip with a few of my friends and their hubbies. (This was a no kids weekend trip) Last year we went to Boston and this year we decided to give Washington DC a whirl.

The last time I was in DC, I think I was in 6th grade so it was nice to get back and see the sights. We stayed in the Georgetown area and that's where all our dinner reservations were. My favorite was the Peacock Cafe. I'm still thinking about the food I ate there. It was THAT delicious!!

We got into Georgetown late so we just walked around the shops before dinner. Saturday we were able to do the bulk of sightseeing in the monument area. Our first stop was Arlington National Cemetery. Believe it or not, I had never been there or had seen the changing of the guards before, so it was really cool to be able to do that. Then we needed o grab some lunch so we were told (by many people we asked) to go to Chinatown.

Fine. So we jumped on the Metro. Well, we did that and then... yada yada yada my friend is asking the Pentagon police to call us a taxi. LOL

Long story.

Just know there were lots of Metro delays, lots of escalators and somehow we ended up at the Pentagon--which was completely deserted. (The area around it too) Very weird.

Anyhew...after all that, we finally made it to Chinatown and decided to go into an Irish Pub. We ate quesadillas there. (Does anyone else find humor in that?) :)

After lunch we went to the Holocaust Museum. Oh. My. Gosh. What can I really say about that? I would have liked to have spent more time in it. It was incredibly moving. If you're ever in DC, this is a MUST SEE.

I did want to see the Lincoln Memorial again but there wasn't enough time in our schedule. Obviously a day and a half isn't enough to take in the sights. Next time, Abe.

Basically, the purpose of the trip was to just have a nice couples' weekend, hang out, see some sights and enjoy some nice meals with each other. But we did manage to catch of the "night life" in DC too.

I have quite a few stories, but I'll tell you just this one: We decide we all want to go dancing. So my friend looks up and sees a club called Midtown on the second floor of this building. The music was really pumping. Sounds great, right? But the catch was there was a LONG line to get in.

In fact, it's just like what you see in movies and TV when you think about a NYC club with the velvet ropes and people waiting to get in. Well, we reluctantly got in line. But we're only there standing for about 30 seconds then all of a sudden a guy all runway-suited-up with the earpiece and all (just like TV!) approaches us. He asked us how many were in our party. So we tell him six and then he tells us to follow him. He led us behind the velvet rope and right up the steps of the club and didn't charge us any cover either. It was so cool!

We felt like total rock stars. :)

What a great time we all had! But I need to go back to Dc and bring the kidlet--when she's a little older. :)

Oh, and they had this place called Georgetown Cupcakes in Georgetown. Every time we passed by it--no matter what time of day or night--there was a line outside the door. (What is it with DC and lines?) Anyway, Sunday before we went home we bought a few boxes of cupcakes to take home.

PS: They were definitely worth standing in line for. :)

No writing for me today. It's all about unpacking, laundry, and catching up on emails.

What did you do this weekend?

When was the last time you went to Washington DC? What's your favorite place to visit there?

The Little Things and other Things

IN THE NEWS:Nebraska's 'toilet-paper bandit' pleads guilty. Read more HERE.
RECENT IPOD DOWNLOAD: "More than This" by Roxy Music.

Hey, all! Right now I'm in the writer's cave so if I've been a little MIA, you know why.
But I am around...

In fact, I'm around in my local library to be exact! I went online to my library to see if a book I ordered was in and then --since I was there at my computer already, mind you--decided to see if MY book was there. And it is! In fact, my lovely library ordered two copies, which was a nice surprise. One is out (thank you for reading!) and one was listed as "displayed".

Hmmm...displayed?

I was intrigued so needless to say. So I hightailed it on over there. And this is what I saw:

(FYI mine is the lime green cover on the right)






Two books away from Sophie Kinsella!

How cool is that?








Keep in mind it was not easy to whip out my camera phone and take these pictures, especially since this table is smack dab in the middle of the library.

By the circulation desk.

By the front doors.

With tons of people passing by giving me strange and somewhat pitying looks.

But it was worth the embarrassment for this fun blog fodder. :)

(Sometimes it's the little things.)

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Okay, enough of that. Onto other sundry things...


Like the Harlequin/Mills & Boon NEW VOICES contest. Alas, the contest is now closed. But if you are a romance writer and ever thought about writing for Mills & Boon, I suggest you take a look at the entries and READ. On September 27 the TOP TEN list will be decided by expert judges. So I think it is worthwhile to take a look and see what entries are drawing their attention.

It's almost like a reality show where they're picking the NEXT ROMANCE AUTHOR. Pretty cool, so check it out!


That's it for me.

Did you enter the New Voices contest?
Have you entered any other contests lately?

Writer Routine Wednesday: Keri Mikulski

Hey, all!
It's the LAST week of my new blog segment: Writer Routine Wednesday, where every Wednesday I have hosted an author (hopefully new to all of you).

We got to know them better and their books as well as hear them describe their usual writing routine.
But now like all good things, it's come to an end. *sniff sniff*

But guess what? We're kicking this last WRW with a GREAT author!
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So please welcome YA author Keri Mikulski today and hear about her writing routine!

BIO:
Keri Mikulski is the young adult author of Head Games (Razorbill/Penguin, January 6th, 2011), Pretty Tough Books 4 - 6 (Razorbill/Penguin, 2011-2012), Screwball (Blitz, 2008), and its sequel Change Up (Blitz, 2009). Keri earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Thomas Jefferson University and a master’s degree in teaching from The College of New Jersey. A three-sport athlete in high school and two-sport athlete in college, Keri worked as a personal trainer, lifeguard, registered nurse, college instructor, and high school coach. Her over thirty articles were sold to Current Health 1 and 2, Highlights for Children, Golfer Girl, Fastpitch Forever, Softball Youth, LiveStrong, and many other publications. Keri teaches writing and lives at the Jersey Shore with her husband and daughter.
FMI check out http://www.kerimikulski.com/

Thanks for stopping by, Keri!

**Describe a “typical” writing day for yourself. For example: Do you get up have your coffee, check e-mail, then write to a certain time? Do you have a set word or page goal when you do write?
This definitely depends on the season.
If it’s summertime my day goes something like this
But, the school year is a totally different story. It’s chaos. I wake up early, take my daughter to school, teach, pick my daughter up after work, play, hubby makes dinner (I try to fit in 1000 words or revisions during this time, but usually end up chatting about my day with hubby), hang out with my tribe, put my daughter to bed, write some more, and pass out. Most of the time I deny myself something I want to watch on television until my word count or revision goal is done. This usually works especially if it’s a One Tree Hill Monday night.

**Do you have another job outside of writing? (Being a mommie definitely counts!!) If the answer is yes, describe how you balance the two and how much time you devote to each.
Although I’m still in the process of figuring the balancing act out, my day job is a teacher and my twenty-four-seven job is Mommy.
I’ve tried everything and after some amazing advice from a working mom, I’m settling on devoting the time I’m at school to school. The time I’m with my family to my family. And the time I’m writing to writing. But, like I said, it’s a serious work in progress.
Any tips out there?

**Are you a laptop, PC, Alphasmart, or by hand kind of writer?
Definite laptop. But, I do keep a composition book for every story I write with pics, writings, articles, and just stuff. Beth Revis just turned me on to Scribner and I’m LOVING - it’s replacing my comp book.

**Plotter or panster? If you’re a plotter, how much time do think you put into plotting before writing.
I used to be a huge panster… But, since working with my editor, I’ve become more of a plotter. I’d say I’m a cream – a half and half now. I try to plot, but I end up pansting.

**Some writers make collages or listen to or create music soundtracks for their work-in-progress? Do you do any of those or have you thought about doing one of them?
Another half and half ... I definitely use google images and magazines to picture my characters and scenes, but I’ve never completed a full collage. And I do listen to certain types of music depending on the project I’m working on, but I’ve never made a soundtrack.

**What’s your favorite book on writing?
Robert McKee’s STORY helped me tremendously with my technique and plot. And Dorthea Brande’s BECOMING A WRITER helped me to understand the creative mind, the importance of writing everyday, and how to focus. I HIGHLY recommend both books.

**What’s your favorite fiction book you’ve read so far this year?
That’s a tough one since I’ve read so many amazing novels this year.. But, I’d have to go with Sophie Kinsella’s TWENTIES GIRL. I absolutely LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book.

**What’s your favorite way to reward yourself after you’ve finished writing a book?
I allow myself one gently used handbag on Ebay.

Thanks so much for having me, Jennifer!! Xoxo


Thank YOU, Keri!
If you see a great deal on Ebay let me know! :)

Keri's new YA novel HEAD GAMES will be released January 2011!
Here's a little bit about it:
The PrettyTOUGH series is back— and this time, the girls take it to the hoop!

Taylor is calm, cool, collected, and ferocious on the basketball court. A total all-star. Not so much in real life. She may be tall, gorgeous, and an incredible catch, but just try telling her that!

And lately, Taylor doesn’t know which way to turn: The summer showcase game is almost here. Her BFF Hannah roped her into a fashion show (eek!). And she can’t decide between Zach—the super-popular, super-tall, super-off-limits basketball dynamo—and Matt—the sweet boy from her math class (who may just be dating her BFF’s older sister). It’s enough to make any girl’s head spin!

Can Taylor strike a pose, land the boy of her dreams, and win the game?

Mark your calendars!
It will be available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Also, Keri and Cyn Balog (author of SLEEPLESS) will be presenting WANNA WRITE YA? at the NJRWA conference.
Here's more about it:

Wanna Write YA?
Do you have what it takes to write for teens? Join young adult multi-published authors, Keri Mikulski and Cyn Balog as they guides participants through the world of YA. Explore genre specifications, sub-categories, agents and publishers currently acquiring young adult fiction, and much more during this introductory workshop.


CONTEST: Keri has generously offered to giveaway an ARC of HEAD GAMES to some lucky commenter!

Please leave a comment below to be entered to win. The giveaway contest will run from now until Thursday 11:59PM (EST). I will announce the lucky winner this Friday!


Good luck and get into your own writing routine!

This and that part 10

MOOD STATUS: "Excited". Looking forward to going out to dinner--with no kids! :)

Thanks to everyone who stopped by Writer Routine Wednesday to hear about Camy Tang's new book and her writing routine!


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And now for the this and the that...

First up:

My friend Clarissa Yip has a new book just released by Decadent Publishing called LOVE BY AUCTION.

Here's a little bit about it:

Intent on leaving the Date for Charity Auction, billionaire Mark Passmore vows not to bid, until he sees the gorgeous blond strut across the stage. Need overwhelms his senses and he has to have her.

With an etiquette drill sergeant and society snob for a mother, Rebecca Hathaway a.k.a Ice Princess accepts an extraordinary dare—one that lands her in the arms of her ex, except he doesn’t know it’s her.

After an explosive passionate night with Mark, Rebecca sneaks back to her mundane life of tea parties and book clubs. But she knows she’ll never be the same again.

Although he’s ended their relationship three years ago, Mark has never stopped loving Rebecca. When he learns the truth of Rebecca’s role in the action, will he forgive her for her betrayal or walk away again?

CONGRATS, Clarissa!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And check out my other friend's (Stephanie Taylor) new book trailer for her recent release DOUBTING THOMAS. She did a fabulous job with it!



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Also, Karen G is having a little BBQ Blog party over at her blog this whole weekend. So if you want to add some followers to your blog, go check out her party!

Have a great Labor Day weekend!

This, a Winner, and That part 9

IN THE NEWS: Mass. police: Shark sighting a practical joke. Read more HERE.

Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by Writer Routine Wednesday to say hi and hear about Tricia Mill's writing routine and hear about her new YA release WINTER LONGING!

(Massage appointments are going to go up now) LOL!

But now the important part: the book winner. :)

And the winner of Tricia Mill's book HEARTBREAK RIVER is...

Robyn Campbell!

CONGRATS!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now for the that...

Big thanks to everyone who entered to win a copy of my book GEORGIE ON HIS MIND and say such nice things about it and me.

You all are so sweet and supportive! And I can't wait until I can return the favor and cheer you on as well!

But now the important part. The book winner. :)

The winner of my romance GEORGIE ON HIS MIND is...

Sarah Forgrave!

CONGRATS!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now I'd like to leave you all with some chocolate.

No, not real chocolate.

According to this website chocolate-circle.com:

Impress your friends and colleagues by jotting notes into this this Brand New Chocolate-Bar-shaped Memo Pad.

It smells like cocoa too! ---->

Have a great weekend!

This, a Winner, and That part 8

MOOD STATUS: "Thrilled". My obligations for the month are
DONE. And I'm going on a little vacation next week. Yay!


Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by Writer Routine Wednesday to say hi and hear about Heidi's writing routine! I know I wish I had a BIO like that!

But now the important part: the book winner. :)

And the winner of one of Heidi Bett's books is...

BOSSY BETTY!

CONGRATS!!!

Please e-mail me the address you would like the book sent to along with your book selection. You can check out Heidi's website for her list of back listed books.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
And now for the this and that


Did you know that Harlequin is on the hunt for new authors for their Medical Romance line?

Harlequin®/Mills & Boon® Medical Romance™ is looking for new authors – and if you send us a first chapter, three chapters, or even a full manuscript of a romance in a medical setting, then we will give it a fast-track read…and get you a fast-tracked response this summer!

Here’s what to do to get fast-tracked:

• Send us a covering letter with a synopsis of your story and characters (no more than two pages) along with anything from the first chapter of the story to the complete manuscript.

• In order to be eligible for fast-tracking, submissions must be received between 1st and 24th August (12.00 Midnight BST, British Summer Time) 2010. Don’t miss out!

• You must email your submission (as a Word document attachment) to medicalfasttrack@hmb.co.uk and make sure you include your current email address in you covering letter as you will receive your response by email.

• Otherwise our normal submissions and format criteria apply (visit ‘Submit manuscript’ section at www.millsandboon.co.uk

Of course, we are open to unsolicited submissions at any time, but if you send us your Medical Romance submission in August then we’ll send you a response in August from one of our London-based editors.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Also, are you looking for the perfect gift to give to one of your writer friends?

Oh, good. Here's a great website to check out then: http://www.cafepress.com/



They have cool stuff like writing journals with "Oh, this is SO going in my next novel" on it



T-shirts and mugs that say "Ask me about my next book"



Hats that say, "Future author"



and my personal favorite, the pink t-shirt with the saying

"I'm writing you into my next novel.

Your character will meet a painful, violent death.

Have a nice day."



That's it for me. Have a GREAT weekend!

Writer Routine Wednesday: Heidi Betts

Hey, all!
It's another week of my new blog segment:Writer Routine Wednesday, where every Wednesday from now until September 1st, I will host an author.
We'll get to know them better and their books as well as hear them describe their usual writing routine.

Maybe you'll pick up an idea they use for yourself!
Lots of great prizes are scheduled too!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, please welcome author Heidi Betts today and hear about her writing routine!

BIO: Heidi Betts is the daughter of an Arabian sheik and a Las Vegas showgirl, as well as the heiress to the Chocolate is Better Than Sex Candy Company fortune. Because of this, she eats chocolate in all its many delicious forms for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and in-between snacks . . . without ever gaining an ounce on her perfect five-foot-nine, size zero figure.
Each and every one of her breathtaking, award-winning novels has been adapted to film and gone on to become a phenomenal box office smash, featuring such mega-stars as Hugh Jackman and Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise and Julia Roberts, and Harrison Ford and Charlize Theron.
Heidi readily admits that she is only able to write such passionate love stories because of her real-life happily-ever-after romance with superstar actor Dwayne Johnson, who makes every day a fairy tale. When she's not writing or making hot, toe-curling love with her "Rock" of a husband, Heidi can often be found riding naked on horseback (a la Lady Godiva) along the beaches of Malibu or hobnobbing with the rich and famous on Martha's Vineyard.
You can reach Heidi any time, day or night, by calling 1-800-DIAL-TONE. And if you'd like to experience your own perfect, idyllic life just like Heidi Betts, be sure to take the little purple pill. (Not the red one. Never the red one.)
For more information, please visit: http://www.heidibetts.com/
Heidi is also a Silhouette Desire author and this year has a December 2010 release planned: INHERITING HIS SECRET CHRISTMAS BABY (Dynasties: The Jarrods, Book 6),

Thanks for stopping by and taking time away from your hobobbing, Heidi! :)

Please describe a “typical” writing day for yourself. For example: Do you get up have your coffee, check e-mail, then write to a certain time? Do you have a set word or page goal when you do write?
As soon as I get up, the hungry masses demand to be fed. There is no coffee or anything else (including the bathroom—ack!) until their ravenous appetites have been satisfied. Then I like to exercise for about an hour…as much as I hate it (I do, I really do!) I also love it because it gets my blood flowing and gives me the energy I need to tackle the rest of the day. After that, I grab some breakfast and much-needed caffeine (in the form of tea, not coffee, thank you very much) and check e-mail or catch up on whatever minor business issues have cropped up overnight. Then…then…I can sit down to write. And I write the rest of the day, stopping only if I’m interrupted (which, yeah, happens a lot more than I’d like *evil scowl*) or to grab a bite to eat. I write in the evenings, too, whenever I can; and sometimes writing at night actually works better for me, so I try to take full advantage.

**Do you have another job outside of writing? (Being a mommie definitely counts!!) If the answer is yes, describe how you balance the two and how much time you devote to each.
I write full-time (you know, in theory) but I happen to be a bona fide cat lady, and despite popular belief, feline children are actually quite demanding. You know those “hungry masses” I mentioned earlier? Yeah, that would be my furbabies, waking me every single morning well before my alarm (why do I even bother setting the darn thing?) by walking on me, jumping on me, licking me, and yowling in my face until I get out of bed and feed them. And then they need to be fed several times throughout the day, as well, which explains many of those “*evil scowl* interruptions.”

**Are you a laptop, PC, Alphasmart, or by hand kind of writer?
I am an Alphie girl, hands down. Or these days, I guess it’s a Neo, since they’ve upgraded. (I actually have one of each and go back and forth, depending on my mood or if I’m juggling more than one story at a time.) I LOVE my AlphaSmarts, and have written every book, in its entirety, on my AlphaSmart since Number 4…that’s 16, plus 4 novellas—wow!
However, when it comes to revisions or editing, I do use a (borrowed) laptop or work at the PC because of the bigger screen and greater range of functions. And I both plot and outline (i.e. write my synopses) by hand…my brain just seems to work better that way on that sort of thing.

**Plotter or panster? If you’re a plotter, how much time do think you put into plotting before writing.
I’m a little bit of both, actually. I definitely plot about 80% of the time, because I find that if I don’t plot out my conflicts/motivations ahead of time, I get waaaaaaay off track when it comes time to write. I’m a very loose plotter, though, which puts me closer to the “pantser” category. I like to plot enough that I have a strong skeleton for my story, but leave enough room for creativity and inspiration to guide me through adding the muscle and flesh. (Okay, that just became a really weird, slightly gross analogy. Too many zombie movies lately, perhaps. :-p)

**Some writers make collages or listen to or create music soundtracks for their work-in-progress? Do you do any of those or have you thought about doing one of them?
To be honest, I tend to write in front of the TV instead of to music. (Though music works, too! I think it’s a left brain/right brain thing.) But I do love to create playlists for my books, usually putting them together as I move along with the story. Then what I love to do is blog about the music I would put on a soundtrack to the book, if I were making one, and also ask readers what songs they think suit the characters and story best. (Doing this for KNOCK ME FOR A LOOP—in which the hero was suspected of cheating on the heroine—was a blast!)

**What’s your favorite book on writing?
I’m not sure I have a favorite book on writing. I can’t even think of one! Probably because I’m not much for how-to stuff, and if I’ve ever even read one, it was years ago. What’s your favorite book on writing? Maybe I’ll check it out, just for a change of pace. ;-)

**What’s your favorite fiction book you’ve read so far this year?
I actually started reading them last year, but hands down I would have to say J.R. Ward’s “Black Dagger Brotherhood” series. To be perfectly honest, I’d put off reading these books because it seems that every time folks go wild over a book/series/author, I pick it up and have sort of a lukewarm “eh” reaction. But when it came time to start writing THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS, I found that my brain was still too enmeshed in regular contemporary and drew a blank on anything even remotely otherworldly. So to get myself in the mood and in the right frame of mind, I started watching all my favorite vampire movies and televisions shows, and of course reading vampire books. The BDB titles seemed like a good place to start, and from book one, I was hooked. Majorly hooked. And I swear, even though BITE is nothing like J.R. Ward’s series, they got me through writing my own vampire romance with flying colors. (Thanks, J.R., I owe you one. *g*)

**What’s your favorite way to reward yourself after you’ve finished writing a book?
In my fantasies: A quick jaunt over to the Islands (we’re talking the Hawaiian variety, here) with my main hunka-hunka burnin’ love, Dwayne Johnson.
In reality: Usually once I finish a book—and it’s not truly finished until I’ve polished and handed it over to my editor, so there’s a very anti-climactic period between typing “The End” and hitting “Send”—I crash. Sometimes for a night, sometimes for a week, but there’s always a very Austin Powers moment when I almost literally deflate and think, “…and, I’m spent!” That’s when I first take a much-needed nap, then love to sit down with a good book and just read, or watch a few movies/TV shows I’ve fallen behind on. The stuff that’s fun, but doesn’t take much energy or very many functioning brain cells.
Once the crash-and-burn portion of turning in another book has passed, though, I really do like to go out and do something to celebrate. Nothing too big or elaborate, but going out to dinner or doing a bit of shopping, sometimes even seeing a movie in an actual theatre (what a concept!) is a fun change of pace.
And then…it’s back to work and on to the next book!

Thanks so much, Heidi! Wow, writing in front of the TV is a new one! LOL!

Heidi is very excited to announce that her first single title paranormal and first Kensington Brava, THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS will be released September 28, 2010.

You can Pre-Order this book from:
Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, or your favorite retailer.

Here's a little bit about it:

In Heidi Betts’s collection of holiday novellas, vampires turn to Angelina Bertolli—vampire matchmaker extraordinaire—to help them find that special someone to curl up with under the mistletoe…

“All I Vant For Christmas”
Connor loves trimming the Christmas tree, baking gingerbread cookies, and hanging the mistletoe. But his vampire siblings won’t help. His friend Angelina sends party planner Jillian to the rescue. But when Jillian, who’s mortal, discovers she’s decking the halls for a family of vampires, will she run—or will Connor have a beautiful woman to share the holidays with?

“A Vampire in Her Stocking”
When Vivian learns that her secret crush Nick is terminally ill, she’s heartbroken. Confiding in Angelina, Vivian refuses to turn Nick into a vampire. Deciding to play Santa, Angelina changes Nick and leaves him wrapped in a red bow on Vivian’s doorstep…

“It’s A Wonderful Bite”
Although Angelina is happy with her boyfriend Sergio, she’s ready for a commitment. After drinking eggnog and watching It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve, Angelina falls into a dream where she is mortal and Sergio isn’t interested in her. Talk about the nightmare before Christmas! But Santa must have checked his list twice because this Christmas Angelina’s wishes are coming true…

Check it out!

CONTEST: Heidi has generously offered to donate an autographed copy of one of her backlisted books to some lucky commenter. Winner's choice! (And there are many to choose from!) Check here for some ideas.

Her first western historical was released by Dorchester Publishing in 2000, with five more to follow. From there, Heidi moved into the modern world by writing numerous category titles for Silhouette Desire, and has since added both funny contemporaries and funny paranormals to her repertoire.



Please leave a comment below to be entered to win. The giveaway contest will run from now until Thursday 11:59PM (EST). I will announce the lucky winner this Friday!


Good luck and get into your writing routine!

This, a Winner, and That part 7

MOOD STATUS: "Groovy". This week of VBS went smashingly.
(But I have another week of it next week)


Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by Writer Routine Wednesday to say hi and hear about MJ's writing routine! I think everyone was impressed with her early morning rising!

But now the important part: the book winner. :)

The winner of MJ's book BENEATH THE SURFACE is...

Belle!

Congrats!!

Please e-mail me the address you would like the book to be sent to and I'll get it to MJ.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now for the this and that...

Here's a cute little video made from the recent RWA 2010 Literacy Book Signing.

$62,000 was raised.

So, yeah,
ROMANCE RULES!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
And one last that


My author friend Stephanie Taylor is very excited to announce that her first contemporary romance, Doubting Thomas, will be available for purchase tomorrow, August 7th from Eternal Press.

In honor of Doubting Thomas’s release, she’ll be hosting a scavenger hunt beginning tomorrow on Facebook. There will be daily prizes and a grand prize on August 14th!

Here's a little bit about the book:

He doesn’t remember...but she does.

For five years, Thomas has lived without a past. A motorcycle accident left him with scars, permanent amnesia and a lot of anger. But the scars aren't all on the outside. He knows one day he'll need to figure out who he used to be, but for now, he's content in his misery and denial. If his family doesn't care to find him, the feeling is mutual—until the love of a tender-hearted, sassy redhead changes his mind. Alyssa Morgan vowed to locate her missing husband and has followed every clue, every lead, every hunch, hoping to find him and the reason for his disappearance. But fate has something else in store for her and puts in her path an aloof man who has her husband’s voice and the disfigured face of a stranger.

Torn between his past and their future, can they put their doubts aside and let love in?

Don't forget to check out this special event and win some fun stuff in the process!

Whew!
And that's it for me.

Have a GREAT weekend!

Writer Routine Wednesday: MJ Fredrick

Hey, all!
It's another week of my new blog segment:Writer Routine Wednesday, where every Wednesday from now until Septemeber 1st, I will host an author.
We'll get to know them better and their books as well as hear them describe their usual writing routine.

Maybe you'll pick up an idea they use for yourself!
Lots of great prizes are scheduled too!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, please welcome author MJ Fredrick today and hear about her writing routine!

BIO: I’ve been writing as long as I can remember, and joined RWA 14 years ago. It took me another few years to take it seriously, to really work to improve my craft, and I started finalling in contests, including four times in the Golden Heart and three times in the Emily.
I sold my first book, Where There’s Smoke in October 2007, and Hot Shot a month later. After 12 years of writing, I had my first two books come out two weeks apart! Hot Shot went on to win the 2009 Eppie Award. Since then, I’ve contracted another novel and four novellas with The Wild Rose Press, two novels and a novella with Samhain, a novel with Carina Press and another with Lyrical Press.

You can visit her for more information: http://www.mjfredrick.com/

Thanks for stopping by, MJ!

Describe a “typical” writing day for yourself.
During the school year, I wake up no later than 4:30, read email and Twitter while I eat breakfast, then write until it’s time to get ready for work around 6. I can usually get about 500 words in. Then when I get home around 4 PM, I catch up on email again, do promo and such until it’s time to start dinner, then write after dinner until about 9. My goal is usually 1000 words a day, or 10 pages revised.
In the summer (I have another week and a half), I get up early, do the breakfast/email routine, walk before 8 AM, clean while the dh is getting ready. Then I settle in my big chair and write until lunch. If I’ve met my goal, usually 2000 words, I can spend the rest of the day reading, hanging out in the pool, having fun. If not, I work in the evening again.


Do you have another job outside of writing? (Being a mommie definitely counts!!) If the answer is yes, describe how you balance the two and how much time you devote to each.
I’m a fourth grade teacher. Balance—what’s that? You see my routine, so that’s as good as it gets. Thank goodness I don’t waste a lot of time at school, so I don’t bring a lot of work home. The rough times are when we’re putting on our PTSO program or when tutoring starts. I cut back my goals during those times. Writing keeps me sane, though, so I try to write every day.
I don’t read as much during the school year, which makes me sad, and I depend on my Tivo, because I do watch a lot, but this way I can schedule my viewing.
My son is 19 and has a job and a girlfriend and goes to a local college, and my husband is in a band, so they don’t miss me so much, but I do make a point of having a meal with them.


Are you a laptop, PC, Alphasmart, or by hand kind of writer?
I got a netbook this summer and I am IN LOVE. It’s light, has an incredible battery life and doesn’t heat up like the MacBook. I thought it would take some getting used to with the smaller keyboard, but I adjusted quickly. I don’t like editing on it, though.


Plotter or panster? If you’re a plotter, how much time do think you put into plotting before writing.
Oh, dear. I’m a bit of both. Beneath the Surface was plotted at a plotting retreat and completely changed as it was written. Usually I have a pretty good idea about the first half of the story, then have to stop and plot once I know the characters better. Yes, this results in a LOT of revisions. I’m trying to plot a series right now. We’ll see how that goes. It’s a first for me.


Some writers make collages or listen to or create music soundtracks for their work-in-progress? Do you do any of those or have you thought about doing one of them?
I do both, though I’m having trouble finding music that fits my work in progress. But I’ve found listening to the music while writing helps you dive right into the story. Also, I listen to the music while driving to and from work and it helps me brainstorm.
As for the collage, I’m very visual. I always have a picture of my hero and heroine. For my work in progress, I have a map of a cruise ship, and pictures of icebergs and quotes that match my character’s outlook on life.


What’s your favorite book on writing?
On Writing by Stephen King. Very inspirational. I have a shelf of writing books and I haven’t read most of them.


What’s your favorite fiction book you’ve read so far this year?
Oh, that’s too hard. I’ve read a few I’ve really enjoyed, especially this summer. Soulless by Gail Carringer was my first steampunk, and I can’t wait to dig into Changeless. Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins was amazing, an incredible example of world-building. Shannon Stacey’s Exclusively Yours was a fun contemporary romance and I’m looking forward to the sequel. I’m currently reading and loving The Search by Nora. After a rocky start, I have fallen in love with it.


What’s your favorite way to reward yourself after you’ve finished writing a book?
Would it be too sad to say I start another book? Okay, it may be, but I love starting a shiny new story that has none of the issues of the old book—yet.


MJ's new Samhain book BENEATH THE SURFACE is available in e-book and print at Amazon.com

Here's a little bit about it:

When past and present meet, secrets lie beneath the surface.

In retrospect, perhaps archaeologist Mallory Reeves shouldn’t have delivered the divorce papers to her estranged husband mere weeks before her marriage to another man. She knew seeing Adrian again would stir up memories, but she didn’t expect so many of them to be good, not after the mess they both made three years ago.

She also didn’t expect to want to stay at the dig site on the Yucatan Peninsula. But the lure of the ancient ship and, yes, her sexy ex provide more of a draw than the white picket fence she thought she wanted.

Marine archaeologist Adrian Reeves has good reason to trust no one. His former partner—and former best friend—made off with his last archaeological find. And his wife left him, frustrated by his obsession for professional revenge.

Now both Mallory and his nemesis have returned, and it can’t be an accident that they’ve turned up in the middle of the most important excavation of his career. Seeing her again unearths old pain—and rekindles never-forgotten desire. Now he has to decide if he can trust Mallory again. More importantly, if he can trust himself with her.


Sounds cool, huh?

CONTEST: MJ has generously offered to give away a signed copy of BENEATH THE SURFACE, to some lucky commenter!



Please leave a comment below to be entered to win. The giveaway contest will run from now until Thursday 11:59PM (EST). I will announce the lucky winner this Friday!


Good luck and get into your writing routine!

This, a Winner, and That Part 6

MOOD STATUS: "Stressed". VBS starts next week and I'm still ill prepared to teach it. Plus I'm behind on a few deadlines. Wah.


Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by Writer Routine Wednesday to say hi and hear about Holly's writing routine! What a fun day! (and what a great promo for Taco Bell) LOL

But, yes, now the important part: the book winner. :)

The winner of Holly Jacob's book UNEXPECTED GIFTS is...


LORRAINE NELSON!



Congrats!!


Please e-mail me the address you would like the book to be sent to and I'll get it to Holly.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


And now for the this and that...


I am now the proud owner of an IPad. Yes. You saw right.
I now have an IPad.
Unfortunately the only thing I've done with it so far is log my ITunes account onto it. And then I couldn't get out of it once I did it, but then my 8 year old kidlet came over and easily showed me what to do. (Uh, that didn't make me feel too old) LOL!



Also, I will be blogging at the Samhain blog tomorrow. About what, I have no idea. I guess we'll all be suprised. LOL. Stop by--if you're around.



And that's it for me. Don't forget to stop by next Writer Routine Wednesday, where you'll get to meet another great author and hear her routine. :)

Have a great weekend!

Writer Routine Wednesday: Holly Jacobs

Hey, all!
It's another week of my new blog segment:Writer Routine Wednesday, where every Wednesday from now until the end of August, I will host an author. We'll get to know them better and their books as well as hear them describe their usual writing routine.

Maybe you'll pick up an idea they use for yourself!
Lots of great prizes are scheduled too!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, please welcome author Holly Jacobs today and hear about her writing routine!

BIO: Holly Jacobs leads a life full of romance and adventure. From skydiving to jet-setting around Europe, from snorkeling in coral reefs to writing while wearing beautiful silk peignoir sets and popping chocolate bonbons, Holly Jacobs leads a life that is the epitome of romance.

Okay, well, my fictional life sounds more interesting, but not better than my real life. Really, I'm the happily married mother of four. I mainly write for Harlequin Superromance these days. Let's see, awards.... well, EVERYTHING BUT A GROOM was one of Booklist's TOP 10 Romances of '08 and one of my recent releases, UNEXPECTED GIFTS won a Golden Quill and is a finalist in the Readers Crown!!

You can visit her at http://www.hollyjacobs.com/.

Thanks for stopping by, Holly!

Describe a “typical” writing day for yourself.
A typical day...well, let's preface this with reminding you all that I'm the mother of four, so no day is really typical, but give or take, this is what most of them look like:

~I wake up between 5 and 5:30...start the coffee, let out the dogs, get the paper, pour my coffee...ahhhhhhh.

~I check my email/Facebook/eHarlequin stuff, dress, eat and by 7:30 I'm making the school run, then come home, walk the dogs and straighten the house.

~Generally I'm writing by 8:30.

~Lunch break about 11.

~Back to work until about 1:30/2. Then run around doing whatever housework needs done, school run at 3.

Do you have another job outside of writing? (Being a mommie definitely counts!!) If the answer is yes, describe how you balance the two and how much time you devote to each.
I am a full time writer and mother. It is a bit of a juggling act, but I try to be sure to remember the family motto--Family First. It sort of puts everything in perspective. That being said, my family is great. They really try to respect my writing time. Of course, the fact I growl at them when I'm writing and they interrupt might help! LOL

Are you a laptop, PC, Alphasmart, or by hand kind of writer?
I have all the above, but do most of my writing these days on my laptop. The dogs (Ethel Merman and Ella Fitzgerald) enjoy snuggling next to me on the couch as I write.

Plotter or panster? If you’re a plotter, how much time do think you put into plotting before writing.
I was a pantser when I first started writing. And why not? I didn't have deadlines and no one was waiting anxiously for the book to arrive. But after I made a few sales, I was able to sell on proposal, but this meant I had to learn to plot a story before I wrote it. It was a tough thing to learn, but I've managed. So now, I do write a synopsis before I write the book...but I try to leave enough wiggle room to allow my old pantser self to have some fun!

Some writers make collages or listen to or create music soundtracks for their work-in-progress? Do you do any of those or have you thought about doing one of them?
Nope. Wow, that makes me sound so boring. LOL But again, four kids, two dogs and let's not forget the husband! I enjoy my quiet. I tend to write while the kids are in school with no music or tv going. Now, anyone who's met me and talked to me might be surprised to hear that, but there it is. Holly Jacobs likes quiet and frequently goes from 8 am until 3 pm without talking at all. LOL

What’s your favorite book on writing?
I'm not a big how-to reader. I do love Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird, or Barbara Kingsolver's High Tide in Tucson for inspiration.

What’s your favorite fiction book you’ve read so far this year?
I've been reading the Harry Dresden book (Jim Butcher) and loving them!

What’s your favorite way to reward yourself after you’ve finished writing a book?
Well, we tend to get Taco Bell. It's pretty much a tradition and it started with my editor at Silhouette Romance. You see, she called and bought another book and I said, "Oh, we're going to Taco Bell and celebrate." She made a little noise to indicate that wasn't her idea of a celebration, then told me that her brother, Larry, loved Taco Bell. So, in that book, A Day Late and a Bride Short, I had a little taco scene and Larry was a secondary character. I fell in love with him (the fictional Larry, not my editors brother...I've never met him. LOL) and he got his own book afterward, Be My Baby.

Thanks for inviting me over to visit, Jennifer!

That's too funny about Taco Bell! Thank you so much for sharing a little of your writing routine and life with us today!


Holly's most recent book, A One of a Kind Family, was a great read (if I do say so myself). Here's more info on it:
A One-of-a-Kind Family
by Holly Jacobs
ISBN # 978-0373716159
Harlequin SuperRomance
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble.com

She’s kind of special…

Anna Chapel believes in people. She believes in helping them lead exceptional lives. Now the dedicated life coach wants to do that for different, yet special Colm Franklin. If Colm’s breath-stopping, over-protective brother Liam will let her.

But the guilt-ridden computer programmer refuses to believe, to dream. Or could it be he simply needs to learn how? Anna’s biggest challenge may be ahead: can one woman with a head full of wayward curls and a smile a mile long convince Liam they have a fighting chance? That, together, they can overcome anything to create a family that’s truly one of a kind?

Be sure to check it out!

CONTEST: Holly has generously offered to give away a signed copy of UNEXPECTED GIFTS, the first in the new Whedon, PA series from SuperRomance, to some lucky commenter!
Unexpected Gifts won a
Golden Quill Award & was a finalist in
The Readers' Crown!


Please leave a comment below to be entered to win. The giveaway contest will run from now until Thursday 11:59PM (EST). I will announce the lucky winner this Friday!


Good luck and get into your writing routine!