Phyllis Campbell

99 cent week!

2012-01-16T23:48:00.001-07:00

Welcome readers to our first Indie Hoopla event. For eight days, Jan 15 - 22, you'll get introduced to authors every single day who are sharing their worlds and stories for only 99 cents!

Not only will you get awesome reads, but, for each book you purchase, you will be entered for a chance to win a $25.00 Amazon gift card or $10.00 gift card from the Book Depository (international readers).

All you have to do is forward a copy of the receipt(s) for the books purchased to indiehoopla (at) yahoo (dot) com. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, January 24. A master list of all participating authors can be found HERE. Now, let's get this party started!

No Way Out – Catherine Martin is trapped. Either she wed an elderly man and commit to a marriage without love, or continue living with the father who believes her guilty of murder and one foot outside the asylum. Catherine picks marriage to the Duke of Ashton, Grant Fielding. However, when she stays with the Fielding family before the wedding, she doesn’t plan on falling in love…with Grant’s nephew, Nicholas.

Destined for a lonely life – Nicholas Fielding loves his uncle’s soon-to-be bride, and has loved her since they were children. Now Nick must choose between his dying uncle's last wish to marry, and the woman who will make Nick happy for the rest of his life. No matter how hard Nick tries, he cannot stop his love for Catherine. A flurry of accidents begins to happen around the Fielding estate and soon all accusing eyes turn to Catherine. When accidents escalate to murder, suspicions expound and even Catherine’s father believes she’s gone mad. Does Nick love her enough to discover the truth?

*More Works*

Other Buy Locations

~~~~****~~~~

Michael Charton

You know Sherlock Holmes, the worlds greatest consulting detective. You know John Watson, his friend and chronicler. You know Dr. Moriarty, the Napoleon of Crime. Or do you? The story of a boy formed by the horrors of the Irish Famine who grows up to be a Criminal Genius.

Other Buy Locations

Smashwords

Happy Birthday, Ginger Simpson!

2011-11-12T03:00:00.000-07:00

On today's blog, I wanted to honor Ginger Simpson. http://mizging.blogspot.com/

She has been a good friend and mentor to me for many years. I first met Ginger when we were with the same publishing company. Seven of us were treated poorly with this publisher, and we broke away. We kept in touch all the time in order to help boost the other's spirits. At this time, Ginger had started a critique group, which I joined. I never realized until this point just how awesome Ginger's stories are! I was hooked - and will forever be her fan.

Ginger has called me on the phone on a few occasions in my life when I've been depressed, and she's lifted me up and gave me the support I needed. She has helped me so much in my writing career - and even made some of my book trailers!

Ginger, I just wanted to let you know...

I LOVE YOU!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Meet romance author Lilia Birney

2011-11-05T21:48:00.002-06:00

I want to introduce you to Lilia Birney. She is one of the authors in Regency Christmas Anthology series. I've read her story "A Second Chance For Christmas", and it's to DIE FOR!!

Lilia, tell us about yourself:
Well, I live in North Carolina and I have been writing professionally for about five years now. I have only written fiction for about a year, though. I have always loved reading Regency romance novels but never thought I could write one--until very recently, when I decided what the heck and took the plunge.

What made you start writing?
I was always a good writer in school, meaning that the teacher would read things I had written for assigments out loud to the class (most of the time without my permission, which pissed me off, LOL). But I never dreamed I could write things and actually earn money for them. This didn't occur to me until I got a gig writing restaurant reviews when I was staying at home with my newborn daughter. It just mushroomed from there.

That's awesome about your school teacher! You must have had a true talent back then. Tell us about your experience in writing a short story for the Regency Christmas Anthology.
What is this story about? My story is about Philip Whitton, the second son of Lord Norland. He's the Regency equivalent of a messed up rock star. He has this enormous talent but squanders it on drinking and drugs. He's still bitter that Emily Ware jilted him two years ago.

Here is the blurb:
Philip Whitton has been summoned back home by his grandfather after a wastrel existence in Italy, studying music and trying to forget his first love. Emily Barlow, nee Ware, is picking up the pieces of her shattered existence following her husband's death. Thrown together by chance on the road back home to Danby, Emily and Philip rekindle the flames of their old passion. Will the fire burn itself out like it did before, or are they ready to follow their hearts and live out the truth of their love?

A messed-up rock star? How funny! Do you have an excerpt to tease us with?

How about the first paragraph?

Philip Whitton shook off the fog that still clung to his brain, wrinkling his nose at the stench of herring that wafted up from Yarmouth's banks. Twas too much for any man to bear, that was for certain. The sooner he was in the Danby traveling berlin, with its ducal crest and luxurious appointments, the better. He could sleep until they reached the first stop of their journey home. The passage from Den Haag had been rough, but Philip was not one to suffer any pain or discomfort. Fortunately, Captain Baines had been most forthcoming with the beer and ale on board, as one would expect for the second son of a Marquess. And when the ale or the wine wasn't enough to dull his sensibilities, there was always the poppy. Laundanum always fed Philip's art, fueled his desires, and dampened reality to a dull roar. Between the liquor and the tinctures, the sailing from Den Haag to Yarmouth was really not as bad as one might expect.

Buy link from Kindle - http://amzn.com/B0061ETYGA
Buy link from Nook - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/a-summons-from-the-duke?keyword=a+summons+from+the+duke&store=ebook

Great beginning! Do you have other stories?

Right now I have a contemporary novella up on Amazon, called "From Air to Eternity." I worked on that series with Jerrica Knight-Catania, who also worked on this anthology.

Jerrica Knight-Catania is another awesome author! Are you working on something new?

I am also writing the Liberated Ladies series, a book of Regency romance-mysteries. Book 1 should be hitting the virtual shelves by December 1.

Love that series title! I can't wait to read the series. So, where can readers find you?

The best way to reach me is through Twitter, I am @LiliaBirney. Join me there for a writing sprint sometime! Or you can read my blog at liiabirney.wordpress.com.

CONTEST!!! Comment on this blog for a chance to win a Kindle, Amazon and Barnes & Noble gift cards, and great books in our 12 Days of Christmas giveaway!!

Lilia Thanks for being my guest today!!!

A Regency Christmas Anthology Extravaganza

2011-10-22T14:04:00.000-06:00

I'm thrilled to announce my next story will be out Nov. 1st in a Regency Anthology. I'm with some very talented authors, and I'm happy to have my story with theirs.

A Danby Regency Christmas Summons Prize Extravaganza

Presented by: Lilia Birney, Christi Caldwell, Phyllis Campbell, Jane Charles, Aileen Fish, Catherine Gayle, Samantha Grace, Suzie Grant, Julie Johnstone, Olivia Kelly, Jerrica Knight-Catania, and Ava Stone, in honor of the release of our Regency Christmas Anthology, consisting of A Summons from Yorkshire, A Summons from the Duke, A Summons from the Castle, and A Summons from His Grace.

In celebration of our release on November 1, we’re hosting a six-week-long prize extravaganza. Follow us on Twitter, like or friend us on Facebook, visit our websites, and look for announcements of ways to enter. Any time one or more of us blogs about the Regency Christmas Anthology, comment and leave your email address for an entry in the drawing. If one of us hosts a Twitter contest, follow the rules outlined on Twitter for your chance to enter.

What can you win?

· 1 $79 Kindle from Amazon

· 1 of 3 $50 gift cards (2 from Amazon, 1 from Barnes and Noble)

· 1 of 3 $25 gift cards (2 from Amazon, 1 from Barnes and Noble)

· 1 complete set of Catherine Gayle’s LORD ROTHEBY’S INFLUENCE series

· 1 complete set of Ava Stone’s SCANDALOUS series

· 1 of 2 copies of Jerrica Knight-Catania’s THE ROBBER BRIDE

· 1 copy of Suzie Grant’s FOR THE SAKE OF SIN

· 1 copy of Suzie Grant’s THE DEVIL’S DAUGHTER

· 1 copy of Suzie Grant’s WRONG KIND OF PARADISE

· 1 complete set of Jane Charles’s ONCE UPON A TIME trilogy

· 1 copy of Jane Charles’s TO WALK IN THE SUN

· 1 copy of Aileen Fish’s THE MISTLETOE MISHAP

· 1 copy of Aileen Fish’s THE CHRISTMAS DRAGON SCHEME

· 1 copy of Phyllis Campbell’s SPANISH EYES

· 1 copy of Phyllis Campbell’s QUEEN OF HEARTS

Entries will be accepted and collected from November 1 through December 15, prizes will be drawn on December 15, during a live chat event at the Lady Scribes blog (8-10 pm, Eastern), and winners will be notified by email or Twitter if not present in the chat. You do NOT need to be present in the chat to win.

Lilia Birney: Twitter, Blog

Christi Caldwell: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Phyllis Campbell: Facebook, Twitter, Blog

Jane Charles: Facebook, Twitter, Blog

Aileen Fish: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Catherine Gayle: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Samantha Grace: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Suzie Grant: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Julie Johnstone: Facebook, Twitter, Blog

Olivia Kelly: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Jerrica Knight-Catania: Facebook, Twitter, Website

Ava Stone: Facebook, Twitter, Website

A Scandal To Remember - is HERE!!

2011-08-11T08:25:00.000-06:00

I'm so happy to announce my newest release. A SCANDAL TO REMEMBER is finally available! I've had many readers ask about this book, and I'm excited it's finally here! WOO-HOO! My publisher, Dark Castle Lords Publishing gave me the PERFECT cover! Don't you think it looks romantic?

Revenge and passion come together as Cecily Lawrence attempts to make right the scandal that ruined her six years ago. Garrett Hastings, Earl of Blackmore, may not have taken her virginity that night they secretly met in the greenhouse, but being caught in an intimate embrace with the rogue definitely ruined her for any other man. Now, on his wedding day, she is determined to kidnap him but make it look like he’s running out on his own marriage to be with his mistress.

EXCERPT

“That was close,” he said.

“I know.”

She sighed and relaxed her back against the girder, then chuckled. “Garrett, being with you has certainly been an adventure tonight.”

He smiled. “Shall I assume you’re enjoying yourself, then?”

“Yes.”

“Splendid. I am certainly enjoying the evening.”

A fly buzzed by her head and he moved it away with his hand. The only discouraging thing about being this far in the shadows was he couldn’t see the blue of her eyes. But if he stepped closer… He followed his thoughts.

Her chest moved with quick breaths. She licked her lips, and he couldn’t tear his eyes from that spot—except when the fly buzzed between their faces, pestering him once again. Just as he was ready to knock it aside, an idea hit him, making him grin. “Why don’t you blow away the fly like you did the bee earlier?”

She laughed and shook her head. “I fear if I do, you may get the wrong impression of my intensions.”

“But my dear, sweet Cecily. I am led to believe your intensions are as wicked as my own.” He arched an eyebrow. “Or am I misreading you?”

Even in the dim lighting, he detected a blush on her cheeks. He swept his knuckle across her heated skin to get his answer.

“Garrett,” she said as she fingered one of the gold buttons on his over jacket. “I don’t know why I’m here with you now. Propriety dictates this is wrong.”

The fly darted by his face again, and he tried to swat it. Soon, her hands were trying to make the insect go away as well. After missing their target, they started laughing.

“Hold still,” he instructed, keeping his eyes on the fly. When it neared her hair, he batted his hand. Instead of knocking the fly away, he bumped her styled hair, making the pins fall out. Her curls tumbled out of the bun and hung around her shoulders.

“Oh, dear,” she gasped and tried to fix it.

Mesmerized, he stopped her hands, lowering them to his chest as he held her palms against him. “Don’t,” he spoke in a deep voice. “I’ve never seen hair so beautiful before.”

“Garrett…this is indecent.” Her voice cracked.

“Please, allow me this one thing.” He caressed her hair, running his fingers from the top of the curls all the way to the bottom where they rested against her bosom. She inhaled sharply but didn’t remove his touch. “Your hair is so silky.”

Against his hand, her chest heaved with quick breaths. He ran the tip of his fingers up her hair once again, until reaching the curve of her neck before sliding his touch to her skin. Creamy, just as he’d imagined it would be. In slow circles, he rubbed his fingers along her collarbone, and down the swell of one breast. The Lord had certainly blessed her, and Garrett thanked the Almighty that she hadn’t put a stop to his exploration.

When he reached the edge of her bodice he stopped, but only to move in a different direction as he traced her gown. Her breaths grew quicker, as did his own, but something else grew as well. His arousal leapt by leaps and bounds the longer she allowed his ministrations.

Hesitantly, he slipped a finger inside her bodice, searching for a nipple. The bead rubbed his finger, creating a deep groan from Cecily, and he was surprised when one came from his throat as well. “Cecily, I want to hold you so bad it’s killing me.”

Want to read more? Buy now for only $4.50!!

~Phyllis~

Strip Poker Anyone?

2011-08-09T12:56:00.000-06:00

When did people really start playing strip poker? From all the books I've read, this is not something that's discussed very often. This is what is says in Wikipedia:
Strip poker and poker seem to have developed simultaneously, possibly as early as 1830 in saloons/brothels and poker houses. It is said that the girls working in the brothels to pass the time became interested in the game and were allowed to ante in using articles of clothing. They could stay in the game as long as they had articles of clothing left. Alcohol, sex, and poker games simultaneously led to the development of what we all know now as "Strip Poker" .

So, since I decided to add a strip poker scene - of sorts - in my historical romance, "Her Knight Of Seduction", I don't feel so bad since this story takes place in England, 1850. But I didn't come right out and call it a strip poker scene, but it's definitely implied. (grins) I have this scene in the beginning of my story, because it sets up my hero very well and lets the reader know what a rogue he really is. But Edmund Knight is soooooo loveable!!!!

Let me set up this scene a little for you. Megan Ramsey thinks she's trapping a Duke into marriage by being caught with him in the woodsman's cottage. What she doesn't know is that the man she's alone with is not the duke, but her father's enemy - Edmund Knight - the bastard son of a nobleman. Now without further ado, here is a section from my strip poker scene.

“Should you win, are you certain a kiss is all you will want?”

“It’s all I asked for, isn’t it?” He reached his hand across the small table and took Megan's in a gentle hold. His lean fingers caressed her palm in a soft stroke, sending warm shivers up her spine. His brows lifted. “And you, my lady? Is a kiss all you want should you win?”

“Perhaps I will ask for more.”

“Go ahead.” He leaned back in his chair, his grin broadening. “Ask for anything you like.” He waved his hand through the air. “I do not plan on losing.”

Smokey blue eyes penetrated hers and a reckless thrill ran through her. He brought her hand to his mouth, and his lips whispered the lightest of kisses against her knuckles. She held back a moan from the sweet caress of his tender lips.

“Now the rules are set, shall we begin?” His voice came out low and husky.

“I fear this is a most improper game.”

Mild laughter rumbled in his chest as he released her hand. He picked up the cards and shuffled. “It is, but that is the kind of game I play. The proper games the debutantes play nowadays bore me. I need something with a little more excitement.” He met her gaze from across the table. “I’m certain you’re tired of the staid life you have been leading also, or have I misjudged you?”

Had her heart stopped beating? He practically confessed he was no gentleman. Her mother assured her he was, but here sat an entirely different man. Megan couldn’t decide if that were a good thing, or bad.

With her back straight, Megan gave him her most daring smile. “Deal the cards, Your Grace.”

“I’m happy to see I have not misjudged you.”

She tried concentrating on the game, hoping to win—hoping he would win—just as long as there was a kiss. Fear shook through her just thinking about it. The heat inside her boosted a few notches in anticipation.

Every card she picked was a high card, and it surprised her to see four Aces in her hand. If what he told her about the game was correct, she had won. Lifting her chin in triumph, she smiled.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You, my dear, don’t have a face made for this sort of game.”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“By the wide smile stretched across your tempting mouth, I assume you have an exemplary hand?”

She shrugged one shoulder. “How do you know this is not a deliberate attempt to mislead you?”

“No, I’m certain it isn’t.”

“Then do you call?”

He laid down five cards, all the same suit, numbered in order. “If you can beat a small straight, then you have me licked.” He laughed. “And the prospect of being licked sounds rather enjoyable at this moment.”

Megan’s heart thundered in her ears. He shouldn’t have suggested something so shocking. Yet, it made her imagination run wild. Shame on him!

With shaky hands, she laid her cards on the table.

“I have four Aces and a five of clubs. I suppose that means I win.”

“Yes, you do.” He shrugged, the corner of his lips lifted in a cocky grin. “I’ll now have to forfeit something.”

By his creased forehead and shadowed gaze, he appeared deep in thought. She observed his meditations in keen interest, but his eyes revealed none of his innermost thoughts. Finally, he smiled, reached up and loosened his cravat. “It’s up to you. My cravat or a kiss.”

A cravat? What would she do with his cravat? Yet she knew what she would do with a kiss. She swallowed hard, deciding to let the teasing game play on.

“I will take your cravat.” She grinned and took the article of clothing handed to her, its silky smoothness still warm from his throat. She placed it on her lap, and his musky scent engulfed her, heating her that much more. He gathered the cards and shuffled again.

The next game went as before, and she held four Kings. Amazing. She was better at this game than she thought. It was time for him to forfeit, and he once again pondered on this, biting his bottom lip during the silence.

A grin tugged on his lips. “My waistcoat or a kiss?”

“Your waistcoat.”

With a nod, he smiled and shrugged out of the garment. She knew his game. He was purposely losing.

“Why are you forfeiting your clothing?” she asked in a mocking tone.

“As I see it, you have more need for it than I. Doubtful your riding habit is dry as of yet.”

Accepting his explanation, Megan nodded.

Once the third hand was dealt, she held a royal flush. He’d tricked her! What other excuse could there be? She decided not to say anything, just to see where this led. As he unbuttoned his shirt and tugged it out of the waist of his trousers, she caught a breath in her throat. This wasn’t good; or was it? She had vowed to charm him the best she could, but now faced with disrobing a man in person, the thought made her feel a bit green—yet excitement bubbled inside her chest.

“Your Grace.” She lowered her eyes as her cheeks burned. “I’d rather you leave your shirt on.”

“But my lady, what would you have me forfeit? Are you ready for a kiss?”

“I . . . I don’t know, but—”

“Have you never seen a man without a shirt?”

Her face scorched with heat. “Once, I accidentally caught my father without a shirt.”

“I assure you, I’m built no differently.”

She dared to look up, and at that moment his shirt came off. Her mouth turned dry. He lied. He wasn’t a thing like her father. Her father would consider himself privileged to have even half the definition the duke had sculpting his wide chest.

A maelstrom of sensations flooded her mind, and she found she couldn’t remove her gaze from his masculine body. His bronzed frame glistened with hardened muscles sprinkled with a few soft hairs.

Inwardly, she moaned. She swept her tongue across her parched lips to moisten them before swallowing. It didn’t register in her mind that he held out the shirt for her to take until he stood and walked to her. She should have paid better attention.

The shirt dropped in her lap and his masculine scent of spice and leather surrounded her. Bending over, he placed his face very close to hers. Hesitantly, she met his heated stare.

“You know, my sweet lady, you shouldn’t look at a man with wide, curious eyes, and a gaze that devours him they way yours was doing. It might give him improper thoughts.”

Megan swallowed again, this time seeming harder than the last. “Please forgive me, but . . . you look nothing like . . . my father.”

He chuckled, tracing his finger along side her jaw before moving back to his chair. She breathed a little easier, but not much.

To purchase this book on Kindle - click here.

We have a WINNER!!!!!

2011-08-08T09:24:00.000-06:00

Before I announce the winner, I want to say THANK YOU for everyone who entered my contest. This was my first, and I had such a great response I will definitely have another one.

So, let me announce the winner now.

LATISHAJEAN won the $10 gift card from Walmart! I will email you to get your mailing instructions.

THANKS again everyone!

Summer Giveaway Hop

2011-08-01T03:00:00.006-06:00

I'm participating with other authors in this exciting event! All these authors are also having giveaways, so be sure to visit their blogs and enter! Go here for other giveaways - http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/p/giveaway-hop_17.html

For my contest, I'll be giving away a $10 gift card from Walmart. To enter, all you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment with your name and email so I can contact the winner. The contest runs from August 1st - 7th. You can enter the contest during these days.

Thanks for entering! And have fun with the other authors who are participating in this blog!

~Phyllis~

I did it!!

2011-07-24T20:02:00.002-06:00

I have another book released! This story is only on Kindle (for now). This was my previously published "Always, My Love" - retitled to "Love Me Always." Watch for more stories from Phyllis Campbell on Kindle!

Here is the blurb:

Destined for a lonely life – Nicholas Fielding loves his uncle’s soon-to-be bride, and has loved her since they were children. Now Nick must choose between his dying uncle's last wish to marry, and the woman who will make Nick happy for the rest of his life. No matter how hard Nick tries, he cannot stop his love for Catherine.

A flurry of accidents begins to happen around the Fielding estate and soon all accusing eyes turn to Catherine. When accidents escalate to murder, suspicions expound and even Catherine’s father believes she’s gone mad. Does Nick love her enough to discover the truth?

~Phyllis~

A Review: Classic Murder, Mr. Romance

2011-03-15T19:54:00.001-06:00

I really enjoyed reading this story. Mary Martinez has a way of pulling her readers into the story and keeping them there until they've reached the end. I pride myself on trying to figure out the mystery when I read a book, but I confess, I couldn't figure it out this time. Mary did a wonderful job on the suspense. Oh - and I can't forget her yummy hero! Dang!! Why can't there be more men like that? I found myself sighing dreamily along with the heroine while reading this, and I'm quite sure my dreams will be happy tonight! A job well done, Mary Martinez!

Adam enjoys a lifestyle most men only dream of. Then one day he wakes up to find the morning headlines blaring, "Another victim falls prey to Mr. Romance. Who is next?" He suddenly realizes his way of life is not only frivolous, but deadly.

Dubbed Mr. Romance by New York society for his romantic adventures, Adam Fernando Russo loves women. But lately he realizes how lonely it is coming home to an empty house. Can he settle for only one woman? After he makes a list of qualities worthy enough to merit giving up his desirable existence, suddenly recipients of his coveted attention mysteriously fall prey to a murderer. The murders seem unrelated with one exception--all the victims have recently returned from a fabulous weekend rendezvous with Mr. Romance.

Adam’s assistant, Katie Sinclair, knows Adam is innocent with airtight alibis. The police are at a loss so Adam and Katie work together to discover the link between the murders. As luck would have it, their plan to prove the murderer is copying classic Cary Grant movies goes astray just as Adam realizes his perfect woman has been by his side all along.

Check out other books by Mary Martinez - http://www.marymartinez.com/

~Phyllis~

A Review: Stranger on the Shore

2011-03-15T12:58:00.000-06:00

Jordan Blake finds a man half dead on the shore and rescues him. Although she doesn't want another man in her life since the last one damanged her heart, she is strangely attracted to this man. He doesn't remember his name right away, but being with him and caring for him makes her feel things she never thought she'd feel so quickly after having her heart broken. His kiss sets her on fire - and she realizes she doesn't want to let him go. Can love blossom for these two mis-guided people searching to find love?

This was a very quick, romantic read, which a very happy ending! You'll want to pick up a copy of Roseanne Dowell's latest release. Visit her website for more books - http://roseanne-dowell.tripod.com/

Welcome Lucille Naroian

2011-02-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce you to Lucille. Welcome to my sultry blog, my friend. And thank you for letting me interviewing you!

Phyllis: Tell us about yourself and how you first started writing.

Lucielle: Many years ago, a friend of mine gave me a copy of The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCollough. She raved about it, and promised me I would regard this 590 page novel as my all time favorite. I took one look at the thickness of the book, gave her a toothy smile and a hug, then put it away. I didn't have time to waste on a book about a priest who couldn't choose between God and a woman. I am the product of Catholic schools. Where's the choice? Well, the day came when it was time to read something from my 'to be read' pile, so I picked up the book, gave it a good dusting, and dove in. Three hours later, I was still reading. If I had walked into a book store way back then, I would never have chosen this book, and it would've been my loss. Reading a story that starts at WWI and ends in the 1960s, is enough to boggle any mind. And yet, Ms. McCollough took me through the saga so brilliantly, I hardly noticed the ride. What I did notice was how she brought the story full circle. Fee's daughter Meggie, ended up living the exact same life as her mother. Brilliant planning! The television miniseries is also my favorite, and the original theme song by Henry Mancini is on the HOME page of my website.

Phyllis: I have to admit, I never read The Thorn Birds, but I do love the movie!! So is the book that changed your life or made you want to become a writer?

Lucille: Well, it didn't change my life, but it did make me want to try my hand at writing. At the time, I was married with a family, and had very little time to weave my romantic tales. I had become a full time portrait artist as well who worked out of my studio at home. But when the urge to write took over, I would pen my romantic tales late at night while my family slept. I told nobody, fearing they would laugh at my futile attempt at story telling. I was a closet writer until two years ago when I took out my three type-written manuscripts. I polished up one to the best of my ability, and sent it off to Penumbra Publishing. They accepted the book, and I've been flying high ever since.

Phyllis: What an awesome story! If you could go back in time, where would you go?

Lucille: To be very honest with you, I wouldn't go back in time. I'm very happy living in the here and now with my life just as it is. The only thing I would've changed in my youth is my diet, and I would have exercised more.

Phyllis: I hear ya, woman! Okay, so what is your favorite thing about yourself?

Lucille: First of all, I'm true to my Catholic faith regardless of what has taken place in the Church recently and in the past. Who am I to make a judgment call on another human being? But as for me, I like to think my best virtue is being kind to others. There are two traits in people that disturb me greatly. One is cruelty to man or beast, and the other is dishonesty.

Phyllis: You are truly a Christian woman, then!! You have a few books out, which is a huge accomplishment, but do you have a favorite? If so, why?

Lucille: I don't know how other authors feel, but my first book, Talk of the Town is my favorite. It's a love story with a lot of humor in it, and I don't mean silliness. It was not my intent to pepper it up with humor, but the character of Samantha's agent is just a funny guy. He reminds me of me. If you look hard enough, you can find humor in anything. And Adam Pearce does.

Phyllis: I love romances - or stories in general - with humor! Way to go! What inspired you to write your latest release, Unforgettable?

Lucille: A few years back, I worked with a young girl who was left at the altar by her conman of a boyfriend. We all knew he was a loser, but love is blind, right? Well, hers was deaf and dumb as well. One day I got the bug to write again, but I had no storyline in my head. And then I thought of this girl and asked...what if? And the story took off.

Phyllis: Don't you just love how story ideas come? Tell us about your book.

Lucille: Be glad to. My heroine, Maddie Price is dumped at the altar and she's livid. Her fiance, a poor artist, talks her into marriage saying they'll honeymoon and live in Paris where his chances of becoming a great painter are much better. She has money...he takes it and runs off. When Maddie realizes what he's done, she ignores the weatherman's forecast of a tropical rain storm moving up the Eastern seacoast, jumps into her old jalopy, and takes off after him. One of her tires gets mangled in a giant pothole. Nobody is around, so she decides to fix it herself. Suddenly, she's confronted by a vicious dog who is threatening to rip out her throat. When the dog's owner comes to her rescue, she reluctantly takes refuge at his mansion, but is still determined to reach the scoundrel who jilted her and retrieve what's hers.

Famous playwright Robert Kendall's life on Cape Cod is anything but calm and uneventful. His Chinese live-in housekeeper, Mrs. O'Malley, has a drinking problem, and his best friend, an actor, sets out to prove he's the perfect choice to play the part of a cross-dressing drag-queen in Robert's new play. Finding Maddie irresistible, Robert knocks himself out trying to make her forget the man who abandoned her. The only problem is, Maddie doesn't trust her instincts after being conned. With Robert seemingly interested in a mysterious fiery redhead, Maddie can't believe she's the only woman in his life. Will Robert's promise to his best friend and Maddie's habitual mistrust prove to be their undoing? Maybe losing each other is the only way Robert and Maddie will realize they belong together.

Phyllis: Sounds like a fun story! Where can readers contact you?

Lucille: They can reach me at http://www.penumbrapublishing.com/, through my website at http://www.lucillenaroian.com/, and my email, clrmxr@comcast.net.

Thanks, Lucille! This was a fun interview!

~Phyllis~

Welcome Mary Martinez!

2011-02-01T01:00:00.002-07:00

I want to introduce you to a really good friend of mine! Mary is an awesome writer, and when you read her interview, you'll see why.

Thanks, Phyllis, for hosting the second day of my blog tour. Anyone who would like to know the schedule can check it out here. http://www.marymartinez.com/news.html#events Each blog a different question from the host. Sort of like a continuing interview. I will also have two giveaways at the end of the blog tour. At the bottom, I’ll tell you how you can participate.

Phyllis: Why do you love writing mystery / suspense. And...could you explain the process of how you set-up your suspense plots?

Mary: I guess you could say I love the puzzle. I want to be able to put together the pieces as I read. I love to have the author lead me through twists and turns until I’m so confused I have no idea who the villain is.

As for the process of how to set-up my plots? I don’t plot. I’m a panster so as I write I let the characters drive the story. I’m constantly trying to figure out who did it. What was their motivation? When I wrote Watching Jenny, I wanted to know why Runner was stalking her, so I could rule out possible suspects. That’s how I found how who Runner was, just like the reader.

My favorite suspense/mystery books are those that stump me until the end. The ones where I sigh when I turn the last page shake my head and say to myself, “I hadn’t a clue.” The best compliment I could receive from a reader is that I’d stumped them.

Thanks, Phyllis that was a great question.

Here is a blurb for my new release Classic Murder: Mr. Romance

Adam enjoys a lifestyle most men only dream of. Then one day he wakes up to find the morning headlines blaring, "Another victim falls prey to Mr. Romance. Who is next?" He suddenly realizes his way of life is not only frivolous, but deadly.

Dubbed Mr. Romance by New York society for his romantic adventures, Adam Fernando Russo loves women. But lately he realizes how lonely it is coming home to an empty house. Can he settle for only one woman? After he makes a list of qualities worthy enough to merit giving up his desirable existence, suddenly recipients of his coveted attention mysteriously fall prey to a murderer. The murders seem unrelated with one exception--all the victims have recently returned from a fabulous weekend rendezvous with Mr. Romance.

Adam’s assistant, Katie Sinclair, knows Adam is innocent with airtight alibis. The police are at a loss so Adam and Katie work together to discover the link between the murders. As luck would have it, their plan to prove the murderer is copying classic Cary Grant movies goes astray just as Adam realizes his perfect woman has been by his side all along.

Available from BookStrand Publishing (Electronic Format, Print coming in spring 2011) http://www.bookstrand.com/classic-murder-mr-romance

For an excerpt and to see the trailer visit my web site: http://www.marymartinez.com/mrromance.html

Now to the giveaways, everyone one who participates by commenting on each day of the tour will have their name placed in a drawing for a Photo Album and a signed copy of Watching Jenny.

Everyone who participates and comments on half of the days will have their name in a drawing for a download of Classic Murder: Mr. Romance (or they can wait until it’s in print for a signed copy)

THANKS, MARY!!! Have fun on your blog tour!
~Phyllis~

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011!!

2011-01-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

I want to wish everyone a very happy new year! I'm especially looking forward to this year because I plan to have more books being released in 2011... So watch for them!

~Phyllis~

NEW BOOK COVER!!

2010-11-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

There's only one other thing I like as much as a book contract...and that's getting my book cover! I am totally over the moon with this one from my newest publisher. I believe I have found my home everyone! Dark Castle Lords Publication know my mind and what I want in a book cover. I'm totally in LOVE with my cover!! Annie Marshall did a WONDERFUL job. THANK YOU!! And, Jimmy Thomas - the model - made it mouth-watering YUMMY!!! I wish I knew who the woman model was because I'd thank her, too.

NEW CONTRACT!

2010-11-23T21:04:00.000-07:00

I just signed a contract with Dark Castle Lord Publications today for my short story, A Scandal To Remember. I can't wait to get my book cover. This is a great publisher for yummy book covers. (grins)

Here's the blurb to my story:

Revenge and passion come together as Cecily Lawrence attempts to make right the scandal that ruined her six years ago. Garrett Hastings, Earl of Blackmore, may not have taken her virginity that night they secretly met in the greenhouse, but being caught in an intimate embrace with the rogue definitely ruined her for any other man. Now, on his wedding day, she is determined to kidnap him but make it look like he’s running out on his own marriage to be with his mistress.

Garrett must marry Lady Fairbourne or else his grandmother will cut him out of her will and take away his funds. Although there’s only been one woman who made his heart flutter – Miss Cecily Lawrence – he knows joining the Fairbourne family will secure his trust fund. But when he’s kidnapped and realizes Cecily is the one who abducted him – and discovers the real story behind the scandal six years ago – his plans change drastically.

Deputy Marshal Richard Bennick - a sexy hero!

2010-11-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd try something different and interview a hero I just met a week ago. Deputy Marshal Richard Bennick made my heart melt from the first time I heard him speak. Now I want you all to experience that. Richard Bennick is from the story, "Lost Hearts" from author Kathy Otten. (available Nov 12th at The Wild Rose Press)

PC: Richard, can you tell us a little about your childhood? Where did you grow up, and what was your family like?

RB: My parents had a farm in Raymond, New Hampshire. They were good, God-fearing Christian people. My brother, James, and I were happy. We went to school and helped our father on the farm. James is four years older than me, and I followed him everywhere. We were close until the war then James grew distant. Or maybe it was me.

PC: What made you go into law enforcement? Being a Deputy Marshal sounds like a very exciting profession. Do you love your job?

RB: I never planned to be a deputy marshal. The war happened and James enlisted. Then our parents were killed in a wagon accident on their way home from town. I was fifteen and a crack shot, so I lied about my age and joined up with Berdan’s Sharpshooters. After the war, James couldn’t stay; he was too restless. So we sold the farm and headed to Texas. For a while we rounded up cattle scattered because of the war. I wasn’t much good with only one arm so I went back to what I knew. Instead of hunting Rebs, I hunted train robbers for the Texas and Pacific Railway. Seven years later I heard Judge Parker was looking to hire two hundred deputies to patrol Indian Territory. Seemed like a good idea, riding out alone away from people. I don’t love the job, but I know how to do it.

PC: Richard, tell us how you lost your arm.

RB: I was wounded when I was seventeen, during the Battle of the Wilderness in May of sixty-four. I woke up and my arm was gone. Doctors took off arms and legs for three days and nights. God, I hate maggots. And don't ask me anymore about it, cause I don't remember.

PC: Richard, I have to tell you, the more I get to know you, and because of what I've read about you in "Lost Hearts", I have an image of Goran Visnjic in my mind. Do you think you look like this?

RB: Goran is better looking than me - he looks more like my brother. And Goran looks like he sleeps better than me.

PC: Oh, now Richard, don't be modest. I happen to think you and Goran could be twins! So tell me, when you first met Johnny, what did you think of the little bugger?

RB: Those eyes—they sucked me in from the first. She has this amazing ability to accept what can’t be changed—even me. She’s never once judged me or tried to fix me, or tried to rationalize away my moments of...crazy. And she’s so feisty she makes me laugh, when I never thought I could.

PC: What was it like being attracted to an outlaw? I bet you were one confused man.

RB: Johnny doesn’t confuse me, she scares me. She’s an outlaw accused of robbery and murder. I have a warrant and a sworn duty to see her brought to justice. But when I’m with her the lines are so blurred I can’t tell right from wrong, sanity from insanity. I’m terrified I’ll cross over one of those lines and not even know.

PC: Is there something about you that most people don’t know?

RB: I’m not close to anyone. I try to keep my distance, but I see the people watching me, judging me—that crazy deputy with one arm. They know nothing about me. They don’t want to know, not really. They’re just waiting for me to fall apart, and I don’t want to be their entertainment.

PC: What is your greatest strength?

RB: Johnny

PC: What is your greatest weakness?

RB: That black hole inside me. The dark abyss of insanity which sucks up time and memory. I can see it at the bottom of a slope so slippery I know that one day I’ll slide into and just disappear.

PC: So Richard, tell me – have you been lucky in love?

RB: Lucky? I’ve never been too lucky. My parents were happy together, and James found someone. But I figure I need a good woman. A church going woman, who is innocent and pure, someone who can balance out the… Well, that evil inside me.

PC: Are you a family man, Richard? Do you see a wife and family in your future?

RB: Once upon a time when I was a boy, I thought that’s how my life would be. Maybe sometime I’ll marry that perfect woman, but for now, making it through today is enough.

But Johnny, now she deserves that--a family for her to love and to be loved by. If somehow I can give her that, then I’ll be happy.

Richard, Kathy Otten, and I hope you run to The Wild Rose Press and order her book. It's definitely a great read!

~Phyllis~

WINNER!

2010-10-02T07:42:00.000-06:00

Margaret Tanner wants to thank everyone who popped in and left a comment. Margaret said she used her husband's bowl hat (one he hasn't taken off his head since they won the finals) put everyone's name in and she picked a winner. The winner of the free download of her story - Reluctant Father - is.... (drum roll)....

Llona Fridl!!! Congrats!

Thanks again, Margaret for being my guest!

Welcome Margaret Tanner!

2010-09-29T07:32:00.000-06:00

I want to give a big welcome to my friend, Margaret Tanner! Margaret, welcome to my blog and thanks for agreeing to let me interview you.

Hi Phyllis, thank you for inviting me to your blog, it has been a pleasure visiting with you. I will award an e-copy of Reluctant Father to one lucky person who leaves a comment.

Tell us about Margaret Tanner and how you first started writing.

I think have always been a writer. I must have been born with a pen in my hand. The first thing I can remember writing is poetry when I was seven or eight. Sad pathetic little ditties they were too. Then I graduated to short stories and won quite a few competitions. I remember one short story competition I won where the first prize was a stack of singlets and underpants. My Dad and brother were very happy.

After having a few short stories published in newspapers and magazines, a friend introduced me to romance novels. Well, I was hooked. Absolutely addicted. My husband worked nightshift and I spent a lot of time alone, so I read and read. Then I had a light bulb moment. I can write this kind of stuff and I did.

Took me about twenty years of rejection, heartache and revisions to refine my craft enough to get published. My 10th novel, Reluctant Father was recently released by The Wild Rose Press.

Twenty years? Well, I'm glad to know there is someone like me out there. It took me fifteen years. lol Is there a book that changed your life or made you want to become a writer?

The book or books that stick in my mind was a series of books by an Australian author Mary Grant Bruce. They are known as the Billabong books and were set from the 1890’s through to about 1916. There must have been about 10 books in all. They were about the trials and tribulations of a brother and sister who lived on a cattle station/ranch. Starting out when they were children until they grew up and the brother went off to fight in the 1st World War.

Those stories sound VERY interesting!! If you can go back in time, where would you go?

The American Wild West. I have been a sucker for Cowboys and Westerns for years.

I'm a sucker right along with you, then! (grins) What is your favorite thing about yourself?

My honesty.

I love that answer!! You have so many books out, which is a huge accomplishment, but do you have a favorite? If so, why.

I love all my books, but my favourite would be, Holly And The Millionaire, my one and only published contemporary romance. It might seem strange because I call myself an historical writer, but somehow Holly got under my skin and stayed there. She was a gutsy little fighter whose soldier husband was killed in Iraq and left her with a toddler to support. She didn’t let being dealt a bum hand in the game of life defeat her.

Once again, Margaret, we are a lot a like. I love historical, but some of my favorites are my Contemporaries as well. So what inspired you to write RELUCTANT FATHER?

I really don’t know, it just came to me. It started out as a contemporary romance, but the situations in the story seemed to fit the 1960’s better. And, at the risk of revealing my age, that was my time. The Vietnam War, anti-war demonstrations, mini-skirts (I had good legs in those days), stilettos (and I have the bunions to prove it). They always say you should write what you know. Well, I knew the sixties very well.

This sounds very different from what I've read. Please, tell us about your story.

The heroine in Reluctant Father is Sarah Watson. She is the daughter of an elderly Minister of Religion and loves her bay side home with a passion. She longs to fall in love and have lots of babies, but time is running out for her as she has gynaecological problems that could eventually stop her from conceiving children.

The hero is Jordan Stamford, who owns a building and construction empire. He doesn’t believe in love and lives by the motto “money can buy anything, and everyone has their price.” He comes to Sarah’s bay side home intent on redeveloping it. But Jordan has a dark secret. Because of his tragic childhood he believes he is allergic to children and would reject any that he sired.

Sarah and Jordan are good people but they are so diametrically opposed to each other’s lifestyles, it is an exciting and sometimes traumatic journey for them to get together and live happily ever after.

Margaret, where can readers contact you?

My website: http://www.margarettanner.com/

My publishers are:

The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/margaret-tanner-m-281.html

Whiskey Creek Press http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/

SEXY EXCERPT:

Outside, the black velvet night sky was dotted with millions of twinkling stars, and a fat moon dangled over the ragged coastline. Taking Jordan’s hand, Sarah led him down into the deepest, darkest depth of their garden, where an old trellis walkway had partially collapsed under the weight of honeysuckle and jasmine. Her father hadn’t bothered pruning down here in years. Situated near the back fence, they could hear the waves pounding against the rocks below.

“A little love nest for us,” she whispered, catching hold of his hand, and using her shoulder to clear a path for them. Spreading the blanket on the ground, she sank to her knees, bringing him down with her.

“God, Sarah,” Jordan groaned, burying his face in her throat before taking her lips with a desperate, wanting kiss. They had been deprived of each other for too long, but now their exile was broken. Like a torrent, passion flowed between them as uncontrollable as the wild surf dashing against the cliffs.

His tongue explored her mouth, wanting, taking, tasting all her sweetness but still not satisfied. They knelt on the blanket, clasped together so closely it proved almost impossible to breathe. Jordan feathered kisses on her eyelids, along her jaw, and his tongue started exploring her ear with exquisite darting flicks. He withdrew a little so he could pull her T-shirt over her head, and then his hands worked frantically at her bra.

He groaned, cupping her breasts together so he could suckle both nipples at once. With shaking fingers she undid the buttons on his shirt, eagerly pulling it away from his waistband. She needed to feel his bare skin against hers.

Together they swayed from side to side in a euphoric dance of love. His hard arousal thrust into her thigh, and it thrilled her to know she held such power over him. Perfume from the jasmine wafted on the warm night air, seducing them. It was so dark in their little love nest they could not see each other, relying merely on touch and smell.

Sarah felt Jordan’s breath on her throat as he groaned, “Yes, babe, yes,” when she fumbled with the buckle on his belt. She slid his zipper down and her excitement escalated when she felt the extent of his arousal. Gently she removed his velvet shaft. Cradling it between her fingers, she stroked it with the flat of her thumb so that it hardened even more.

Jordan gasped and groaned with pleasure. “Yes. Oh, God, yes.” He tugged at her jeans, rolling them down over her thighs so she could wriggle out of them, and then he slid her panties down, and his hand slipped between her thighs. His fingers parted the soft, quivering folds of flesh so he could work her until she was ready for him.

It was Sarah’s turn to moan with delight as he stroked her until she felt hot and moist, burning with a need only he could assuage.

“You like that, babe?”

“Yes, yes.” Her senses exploded with heat, her passion spiralling out of control.

“You’ll like this even better.” He rolled on top of her and thrust hard and deep, his shaft slipping easily into her deepest recesses. Her muscles contracted, holding him tight as they rocked together. Jordan brought her to the brink over and over again, until she reached the dizziest heights, the absolute pinnacle of desire and ecstasy. The shattering release when it came left his body slicked with perspiration.

“Jordan, I love you, love you.” Once again tears of emotion sprang to her eyes and flowed down her cheeks.

DAMN!! That was certainly a yummy excerpt! Thanks again Maragret for sharing yourself with us. I've gotten to know you better!

~Phyllis~

Welcome K.R. Bailey

2010-07-21T08:00:00.002-06:00

I want everyone to give a big hello to K.R. Bailey. I've known her for many years since we met at my RWA Chapter here in Utah. She's a wonderful person and such a good friend. I've interviewed her, so take a minute and learn more about this awesome writer!

Phyllis: Tell us about yourself.

K.R.: I’m married to my best friend. We live in a rural area near Ogden, Utah, with our yellow lab, Max. I’m grandma to four wonderful grandchildren and another one is expected in August. It’s a little girl, and I’m really excited about the new baby.

I love the mountains and outdoors and every chance we get, we head to our cabin nestled in the shade of the tall aspen trees. My husband calls our mountain retreat, Evening Shade, because it’s shaded every afternoon and evening. We have hummingbirds galore, and I so enjoy watching the little birds flit about. Moose and elk wander in now and then, and we have a small deer that lives under our deck. It’s a wonderful place for us to get away. While my husband works outdoors around our cabin, I can spend my time writing. In fact, I’m at our cabin right now!

When I’m not writing, I’m reading. I’ve always been an avid reader. I love romance and suspense, but I’ll often pick up a western historical too.

Phyllis: Dang, woman! You married the kind of guy most romance writers want. (grins) What/who inspired you to become a writer?

K.R.: I can’t remember when I didn’t love writing. I started doing my own biography years ago. I used to do genealogy with my mother and wrote up historical information about my grandparents and parents. I’ve always kept a journal whenever I’ve traveled describing where I was, what I saw, and how I felt. For years I told my sister someday these journals would come in handy. I started my first novel over twenty-five years ago, but I never finished it. Instead, I got married and let my writing go. When I retired six years ago, I saw an ad for the Utah Chapter Romance Writers of America and told my husband I wanted to join. That got the writing fires going and I love it!

Phyllis: You're right there, K.R. Our RWA Chapter rocks! Describe the perfect day in your world.

K.R.: I start out my day slow as I’m not a morning person. I’ll read the newspaper and sit on our patio and visit with my husband as we enjoy the cool morning air. When he goes to do his chores, I retreat to my office and write. Perfection would be no interruptions for an entire afternoon, just me and my computer and chocolate! And to top it off, it’s always wonderful to be able to put the finishing touches on my last chapter and type “The End”. To make my day perfect, I’d not have to worry about cooking -- yuk! I hate to cook.

Phyllis: K.R. We are more alike than I first expected. I'm not a morning person, either. lol You have two stories published …Can you tell us a little bit about them?

K.R.: I actually have three stories published. My first story, An Afternoon Tryst, is an erotic short story written under the penname Modeska Rose, and is available through http://www.thewilderroses.com/. My editor says it’s a wickedly naughty story but has a surprisingly delightful ending.

Sensual reads said: An Afternoon Tryst…Marissa and Norm are having problems in their marriage. Unsure how to fix it, Marissa begins an exciting affair with the handsome Cole. With a surprising twist, it actually does a lot to save the marriage. An Afternoon Tryst was a fantastic story. This was truly an enjoyable read.

My second story, My Guardian Angel, is a sweet romance and my first published under the name of K. R. Bailey. It’s available through http://www.thewildrosepress.com/. We lost my mom about eight years ago and I watched my Dad struggle with going on with his life after being married for over sixty years. When he met a lady friend and they started doing things together, they become my inspiration for the hero and heroine in My Guardian Angel. This is a sweet and touching romance where a widow and a widower find love, demonstrating that you are never too old for romance.

Long an Short Reviews said: My Guardian Angel is a touching story that definitely pulls at the heartstrings while entertaining the reader.

My story, Can You Trust A Cowboy? is a sensual story published with Bookstrand Publishing, and was just released in June. The story is based on a lady truck driver. My daughter is a truck driver and her boss says she’s one of the best. When she’d talk about driving, a story started dancing in my head, and she became my inspiration for Tricia Beaumont, the heroine in Can You Trust A Cowboy? She’s always been intrigued with cowboys and who isn’t? So my hero is a cowboy in tight jeans and a Stetson hat. We’ve always teased my daughter about taking over her father’s trucking business so I thought why not make Tricia a business owner as well.

Can You Trust A Cowboy? is my first try at writing romantic suspense. It’s full of spicy love scenes, a strong heroine, a handsome sexy hero, and a unique twist. Can Tricia learn to trust the man in the black Stetson amidst deception and half-truths when violence threatens to destroy her world?

Romance at Heart Magazine said: Can you Trust a Cowboy? has it all …Ms Bailey raises the stakes in Can You Trust A Cowboy? and ups the ante on love. This sassy, sexy tale is rife with suspense, innuendo and danger. If you love romantic suspense, this is a read you won’t want to miss.

Phyllis: Your stories sound awesome! If you were stranded on an island for a week … which hero would you like to be stranded with?

K.R.: Gosh, I’d hate to have to pick just one. I’d be happy to be stranded with any one of them.

Norman Cole from An Afternoon Tryst is a kind, tender man who is willing to go outside of his comfort zone to keep the love of his woman. Wouldn’t we all love a man like that?

Joe Bailey from My Guardian Angel is a handsome older man with graying sideburns, a deep love for his family, and the desire to help and protect Emma as she struggles to get through the pain of losing her husband of over twenty years. My kind of hero.

Cowboy Wes from Can You Trust A Cowboy? is cocky and sexy, rich and handsome, and owns his own company. He’s part Sioux and his own man, willing to take a stand for what he wants in life. But he is also tender and loving, the kind of man who would make most any woman swoon.

Phyllis: Okay, so you got me there. I wouldn't know which one to pick, either. Does your family support your writing?

K.R.: For the most part, my family has been supportive. I have to make sure I give my husband plenty of time in my life as we’ve always done most things together. If I get really involved in a story, he tends to feel a bit slighted, but he’s come to accept it’s something I want to do and in fact bought my mini computer just so I can take it with us camping, fishing, and to the cabin. That way, we go together, and he can do what he wants while I write. When I sold my first story, he was so cute about it. It was on my birthday and on my birthday cake he had them put congratulations on your book sale and made a point of letting everyone know how excited he was for me. My sister is probably my most avid fan. She reads everything (somethings more than once), gives me feedback, and is always encouraging me to keep writing. My daughter-in-law is always anxious to read anything I write and is probably my most active marketing person, taking fliers to work and letting everyone know when I have a new story out.

Phyllis: You are such a lucky girl to have that kind of support! How can readers find your books and contact you?

K.R.: I have a web site: http://krbailey.com/

My blog is: http://krbailey.blogspot.com/

Both have links to where you can find my stories as well as contact information.

My e-mail is: AuthorKRBailey@live.com

My Guardian Angel is available through http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Can You Trust A Cowboy? is available at http://www.bookstrand.com/can-you-trust-a-cowboy

An Afternoon Tryst is available at http://www.thewilderroses.com/

　
Kathy Rochell

writing as K. R. Bailey

What's hot now? What's not?

2010-07-20T13:17:00.000-06:00

Is it me...or are there others out there who are clueless to what the public wants to read? A year (maybe two) ago I thought Regencies were popular, so I created a three-book (possibly four) series, thinking that publishers and agents were just going to grab my stories and run with them.

Then after I had the story written and started querying, I began a new story - my very first pirate story! I knew for sure this one was going to go quickly, because once again, it can be a three book deal. So once this story was completed and I started making the agent rounds with this one, here comes the rejections for my Regency. What??? Why rejections? I thought Regencies were hot. (and of course you know MY books will have a lot of sexual tension, so they will be hot...or at least sensual. lol) Now, almost another year later, the rejections for my sensual pirate story start pouring in. Eh? What's going on? I thought these topics were hot. Apparently not...

So then a few months ago, a friend of mine started submitting her Christian romances to publishers...and OMG, they went wild over them. Several agents requested to read her story. Now she's with a publisher (her book due out the end of this month in fact and will be in major book stores) plus she has another one contracted and one on the way to being contracted. What's up with that?

So tell me...who knows what is hot out there and what is not? HELP ME????

~Phyllis~

Interview with author Michele Hart

2010-07-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

I would like to welcome Michele Hart to my blog, and introduce you to a great writer.

Phyllis: Welcome Michele Hart!! Please tell us about your new release.

Michele: My spicy new Sci-Fi Romance, Mind-Blown, is about an executive of a medical facility named Jon who falls in deep want for his assistant. Holly rebuffs him with a strict policy of not dating coworkers, but her motivations are deeper than just keeping to company rules. Despite her expressed stand against casual time with him, her eyes twinkle when he enters the room. He wants her too much to give up.

Some resolute snooping on Jon’s part nets him a revelation that their employer is testing mind-control techniques on the employees without their permission or notice. His attraction to Holly a little too blinding, Jon commits federal crimes to see if he could bring down her high walls with a few subliminal cannonballs. It ends in a way no one saw coming, least of all, Jon and Holly. And it affects the entire nation.

Phyllis: OMG, Michele! This sounds like a great plot - one that will keep people turning the pages. (and the cover is awesome, too!) What inspired you to write Mind-Blown?

Michele: Two things Recent research on several new and pretty darn distasteful technologies that will soon confront our society. And, my best friend, Alisha Paige (an awesome writer in her own right), who told me about a strange job interview she’d attended that day. Her description of the event sent me into a writing blitz. Thanks, Alisha!

Phyllis: Isn't it funny where ideas come from? That's cool about Alisha! Out of all your stories (either written by you or not), who is your favorite hero and why?

Michele: Oh! That feels like two questions!

Of stories others wrote, F. Paul Wilson has a character named Repairman Jack. He “fixes” things. He’s a hit man for the common people who can’t find justice through normal routes. Repairman Jack was the coolest. I named my favorite hero in my upcoming release, Luminous Nights, after Repairman Jack.

Of all my own stories, I love Jack from Luminous Nights the most. I loved best that his unemotional, single-minded drive to complete his mission recognized his heroine, Rachel, had a few better ideas on how to get it done with a smaller body count. Of course, he had to listen to her when she held an electronic leash around his neck and a laser gun pressed against his temple. And the spears of twenty primitive natives aimed for his chest at her command.

Jon from Mind-Blown did that too, listened to his woman, without the weapon in the temple. Smart guy. Don’t we love men who do that, listen to their better halves without weapons involved? Applause for all those guys.

Phyllis: Oh, I agree with you. I do love men who do that. (applauds) So tell me, Michele, what made you become a writer?

Michele: That’s a funny story, really. I owe it to the numb-headedness of a cute and otherwise very intelligent and talented guy. My mate and I were having a big disagreement, and to properly express myself on how very wrong he was, I wrote a story. I gave it to him and, instead of clearly understanding my point of view and admitting his wrongness, he said, “Hey, you’re a pretty good writer.” And thus, it began. He started handing me pop Sci-Fi to read, and I challenged myself to write one. I still love that guy. :-) He continues to entertain me. On our most recent contact, he told me he stands on the street corners of Taiwan, dressed as a superhero named Captain Air, and he asks people not to pollute. What’s not to love? It’s difficult to find his kind.

Phyllis: Oh, he sounds funny! And I'm grateful he was the one who started your career. What stories are in your future?

Michele: As of right now, I have the previously mentioned new release, Luminous Nights, coming up in September from Siren-BookStrand. I’m very excited about that. It’s one of my favorite projects. After that, I’m torn between a few different ventures. I have a shapeshifter trilogy already written that I’m considering taking seriously, and I have an idea for a trilogy with two other writers, just one book for me to write, thank goodness. Stories, stories everywhere!

Phyllis: That's great! I totally relate to 'stories, stories, everywhere'! hahaha How can your fans get a hold of you? Do you have blogs, website, or a newsletter?

Michele: You can find all that at my web site: http://www.ILoveShapeShifters.com/.

Thanks, Phyllis, for having me as a guest.

Phyllis: You are VERY welcome. It was great to get to know you! Enjoy your new release and may you have many sales!

Here’s a bite of Mind-Blown:

Jon Paige discovers his employer is developing illicit mind control techniques. He quickly learns how to hijack the system and breaks down his beautiful assistant’s persistent walls. Will Holly forgive him for sneaking into her mind, if she ever learns of it?

Holly Maddox is determined not to dip her pen in the company ink, a policy that’s served her well…until Jon comes along. He steals her mind when he’s in the room, weakens her fortitude with every flash of his flirty eyes and secretive smile. How will she keep herself from falling in love with her boss when he melts her impulse control?

When Jon and Holly decide to sabotage the brain-washing experiments, they learn they’re up against a greater power than they’d bargained for. Doing the right thing risks lives. Will the truth of their beginnings wreck their sizzling affair?

***

Mind-Blown by Michele Hart

Buy Link: http://www.BookStrand.com/mind-blown

Available in e-Book ISBN#: 1-60601-773-X * Soon in Print

Read reviews and hot, action-packed excerpts, watch the book trailer at:

http://www.michelehart.com/b26-book.htm

We have a WINNER!

2010-07-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

I want to thank Laurie for being my guest blogger.

Well, out of all the comments and emails, a winner has been randomly selected. The winner of a pdf copy of Laurie Ryan’s newest story, Pirate’s Promise, is...

drum roll please...

...

...

Wendy Phelps!

Congratulations, Wendy. Laurie will contact you via email with your prize.

~Phyllis~

My Inspiration

2010-07-06T08:00:00.005-06:00

Please welcome a fellow Bookstrand author to my blog. I'm excited to have her as my guest because she writes stories about PIRATES! Oh baby....my favorite!

Also, Laurie wants to let you know that if you leave a comment, your name will go into a drawing to win her ebook, Pirate's Promise. Just send an email to - laurieryanauthor@gmail.com

Laurie Ryan writes sensual stories of real-life characters thrust into extraordinary situations.

Inspiration

I’d like to thank Phyllis Campbell for having me here today. It’s release day for Pirate’s Promise, the second of three books in my pirate saga. As I wind down on edits for the third installment, I’m finding myself very nostalgic. It got me to thinking about how this series began mulling around in my brain. Inspiration can come from anywhere. However, my personal belief is that it is triggered by one or more of the five (or six) senses.

Inspiration can be visual. For instance, take this blog. I love the color Phyllis has used here. It’s calming, yet it draws me in. The striations in the background make me feel like I’m traveling to another place. Hmmm. And it makes me think of purple satin sheets. So I make a mental note to use satin sheets in a love scene. Thanks for the idea, Phyllis!

Ideas can be audio-induced. How many times has a song brought you to tears? Or inspired you to write a poem? Or to hug someone? Some songs, like Faith Hill’s This Kiss can remind me to slow down that kiss in a scene. Celine Dion’s I Drove All Night can amp it up and help me remember how far someone will go for love.

The sense of smell is a too-often ignored avenue of inspiration. I can walk through the grocery store, smell the fresh bread baking, and envision some muscle-bound, blond Adonis, elbow deep in dough, kneading away. Of course, then my imagination takes it to the next step and I’m thinking about other things he might knead. About that time, I remember that bakers need to wear hairnets and pop! There goes the illusion. Still, if the idea has merit, it goes into my idea book for a possible future story.

And let’s not forget the sense of taste. There’s a bit in my third book where the hero feeds a bite of deep, dark, sinful chocolate cake to the heroine. Can you envision this?

In real life, touch can invoke a distant memory or a strong desire. When my husband was in the hospital, I couldn’t stop stroking my hand along his back. He said it made him feel taken care of and relaxed. For me, it was reassurance. That memory reminds me of the power of touch and I try to use that in my stories.

For my pirate series, I think the sixth sense, an unconscious thing, kicked in. This series was inspired by a local Tall Ships Festival I attended. Walking amongst those gallant vessels, seeing them raise sail, tasting the tang of the seawater in the air, smelling the oils and polish and canvas, touching the well polished teakwood, and hearing the crews banter back and forth got to me. I knew there was a story here. As it turned out, I found three of them.

I’ve been anxiously waiting for Pirate’s Promise to be released, as it explains why tall, blond, hunky Hawk turned to a life of crime. Sparks fly when his hot tempered attorney, Julia, gets drawn into the mix, her career in jeopardy thanks to his stubborn, single-minded plans.

For more information, feel free to ask a question or visit my website at: http://www.laurieryanauthor.com/

Why Do I Write Historicals?

2010-07-03T08:00:00.003-06:00

I want to introduce you to another guest blogger. Margaret Tanner is a friend of mine I met online, and she's a wonderful writer.

Why do I write historical romance?

Like the heroines in my novels, my forebears left their native shores in sailing ships to forge a new life in the untamed frontiers of colonial Australia. They battled bushfires, hardship and the tyranny of distance in an inhospitable and savage land, where only the tough and resilient would survive. They not only survived but prospered in ways that would not have been possible for them had they stayed in England and Scotland.

I am a fourth generation Australian. We are a tough, resilient people, and we have fought hard to find our place in the world. We have beautiful scenery, unique wild life, and a bloodied convict history.

I admire heroines who are resourceful, not afraid to fight for her family and the man she loves. I want my readers to be cheering for her, willing her to obtain her goals, to overcome the obstacles put in her way by rugged frontier men who think they only want a wife to beget sons. A chance for revenge. To consolidate their fortunes. That love is for fools. Oh, the victory for the reader when these tough, ruthless men succumb to the heroine’s bravery and beauty, are prepared to risk all, even their lives, to save her.

Then there are the brave young men who sailed thousands of miles across the sea in World War 1 to fight for mother England, the birth country of their parents and grandparents. I also wanted to write about the wives and sweethearts who often waited in vain for their loved ones to return. Who were there to nurture the returning heroes, heal their broken bodies and tormented souls.

This is why I write historical romance, even if it means trawling through dusty books in the library, haunting every historical site on the internet, badgering elderly relatives, and risking snake-bite by clambering around overgrown cemeteries.

*****

BIO – MARGARET TANNER

Margaret Tanner is an award winning multi-published Australian author. She loves delving into the pages of history as she carries out research for her historical romance novels, and prides herself on being historically correct. Her publishers are Whiskey Creek Press and The Wild Rose Press.

Margaret is a member of the Romance Writers of Australia, the Melbourne Romance Writers Group (MRWG) and EPIC. Her novel The Trouble With Playboys came 3rd in the historical romance section of this years Preditors & Editors poll.

Margaret is married and has three grown up sons, and a gorgeous little granddaughter.

Outside of her family and friends, writing is her passion.

http://www.margarettanner.com/

FRONTIER WIFE

BLURB: Only in the new world can a highborn young Englishwoman and a tough frontier man, ignite the passion that will fulfil their hopes and dreams in ways they never imagined possible.
Tommy Lindsay arrives in colonial Australia to claim the rundown farm she and her brothers have inherited.

Hidden behind her fragile English rose beauty, beats the heart of a courageous young woman. She will need all this strength to survive the unforgiving heat, and the dangers lurking around every corner. Lost in the bush, capture by a feral mountain family, raging bushfires are nothing, compared to the danger she faces if she gives her heart to Adam Munro.

Adam Munro, a rugged frontier man, has no room in his heart to love a woman. All he ever wanted was a presentable wife who would provide him with heirs. He didn’t need passion in his life, not until he met the beautiful English rose living next door to him.
Frontier Wife is available from The Wild Rose Press

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/margaret-tanner-m-281.html

Thank you for inviting me to your blog Phyllis, I really enjoyed my visit.

Creating Peerrrrfect Titles....

2010-07-02T15:03:00.000-06:00

I want to introduce you to Melissa Blue, my wonderful, amazing critique partner and best friend. She's my guest blogger today, so everyone be extra nice...
Registered Nurse by night, Melissa battles the stresses of life and illness by enjoying uplifting tales of love and romance. A firm believer in true love united with an enduring fascination with history has prompted her pursuit of romance writing. She lives in beautiful Big Sky Country Montana with her husband and children.

Creating Peeerrrfect Titles...
Book titles tend to be an author’s white elephant… the elusive horned unicorn that we chase after, toiling for hours over the perfect twist of phrase that will hook readers and ferry the book to the New York Times Best Seller list. No matter how incredible the writing in a story may be if the title is ho hum it will probably be passed over for a title that leaps off the cover and screams to passersby, “Read me!”

What makes a good title?

Key elements that draw me to a title as a reader are:

· Is the wording unique or is it yet another boring seduction-type of title.

· Does the wording fit with the genre of book I’m looking for?

· Does the title tell me a little something about the book?

· Writers create pictures with words. What images does the title provoke?

· Does the title match the back cover blurb? Nothing drives me more crazy than a gripping title that does not seem to match the book in anyway.

Titles are my least favorite thing to write—third only to synopsis and pitch writing—but the title of my latest release Angel and the Unforgiven from Champagne Books is one of my absolute favorites.

How do I come about developing titles like the one for Angel? To be perfectly honest partly by accident. The original title of this book was Angels (with an S) and the Unforgiven. The cover artist goofed and dropped the ‘S’ at which point my publisher and I said, “Ahhh, I think it’s better without the plural.”

Melissa’s keys for developing fitting yet intriguing titles:

· Slap a working title on your story. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate just a name for your work while you get it rolling. Even something like Ghost Story will do.

· Once you reach a point in your writing when certain plot points begin to stand out take note of those elements because they may be great fodder for a title later.

* i.e. The title of my latest finished project Forget Me Not stems from the Forget-me-not flower the hero gives the heroine. The title is also a clever twist on a double meaning within the story.

· When the time comes and your manuscript is polished and it’s time to polish the title too, develop a few and then run them past a few people.

Now tell me, what is the best book title you’ve seen lately? Mine is Lessons from a Scarlet Lady.

When you read the title Angel and the Unforgiven what image does that provoke in your mind?

Does the back cover blurb match the title?

When murder suspect Cadence Jamison disguises herself as a boy and stows aboard the Heavenly Mistress Captain Curtis Langston may find his two past occasions for rescuing her more than he bargained for.

Bitter and Cynical after service in the Confederate Army, Curtis believes himself no more deserving of another’s love than capable of returning it. Content to drift through life free of emotional and therefore romantic complications the once carefree and mischievous rogue may be forever gone. But when Cadence appears in his life Curtis finds himself smiling again, smiling and dreaming and feeling more like himself than he has in five years. Drawn with almost unnatural force to the sweet and innocent goodness Cadence offers, Curtis blunders again and again to resist the pull of what a life with her could be.

Can Cadence show this wounded soul how to love again? Or is he doomed to be forever unforgiven, haunted by the ghosts of his past?

Happy Reading!

Melissa
Find me online at http://www.melissalynneblue.com/

Angel and the Unforgiven E-book:

http://store.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b108240/Angel-And-The-Unforgiven/Melissa-Blue/?si=52

Print:

http://champagne.vstore.ca/product_info.php/pName/angel-the-unforgiven/osCsid/7c5197766d94a640f8bfd879c46440c7

WINNER!

2010-06-28T12:24:00.000-06:00

I first want to thank everyone who posted a comment on my blog yesterday. I'm so relieved to know I'm not the only one who hears voices in my head... lol I'm also glad to know I'm not the only one who wants a happy-ever-after!

So now, the winner of a free download of any of my books is....

(drum roll)

CORINNE DAVIES!

Corinne please email me for your free book - phylliscampbell84302 (at) yahoo (dot) com.

~Phyllis~

Why write?

2010-06-27T17:09:00.001-06:00

How many authors have you talked to who say they hear voices in their head?

Well, believe it or not, that's the truth. People (usually one gorgeous, HOT, man with a muscular physique - and one sexy woman with the body of a model) chat away in my head to tell me what kind of story they want. But that doesn't happen first. For me, my stories start with a dream. I usually dream a scene or two of the story, so when I wake up I realize this would work great in a book. Sometimes my dreams are the characters I want although the dream isn't. lol Either way, this is the start of my stories. I come up with names, and once again, my characters have to approve or the story isn't getting to chapter two at all! Then I figure out what setting to put them in. Most of the time I'm trying to fit them in a historical, which is the genre I love.

So then we start writing and working with our critique partners / groups. By the end of the story we think we have the next New York Times best seller. Then we get our baby in front of agents or editors... And this is where the rejections start coming.

After the first couple of rejections, we think the agents or editors were reading our NY Times best seller wannabes on a bad day. But by rejection six or seven...we start to doubt ourselves and our writing. We tell ourselves we write CRAP and couldn’t compete with the big authors no matter what...and perhaps the agents and editors actually were right to reject us. Then a week later, we finally get a request. Out of 12 queries we send - with 11 rejections - we finally get that ONE agent or editor who thinks that maybe our story is good. Then wouldn't you know, our attitude changes, and once again, we KNOW they're going to fall in love with it and we will be a NY Times best selling author.

Believe me when I say the emotional roller coaster ride is continual. I've had 23 books published so far in my career, and I still can't seem to get off this emotional ride. My husband tells me it's worse than PMSing. And...I believe him!

So tell me...why do we write? Why do we put ourselves through this? I'll tell you why I do it. Because I LOVE creating stories. I love the magic of romance and the idea of falling madly in love with the person you’ll be with forever. I love writing twists in my plots, and I especially love writing sexual tension!! I have two daughters, who I raised and are now out and of the house, and for once in my life - I can make someone do what I want them to do and they don't talk back... And even if my characters did talk back, at least I can put them in my mental closet for a day and teach them some manners. Usually they come back out ready for me to write. (grins)

Now it's your turn. What drives you to continue writing through all of the pitfalls this business throws at us?

~Phyllis~

Welcome to my new website

2010-06-26T15:42:00.000-06:00

I'm excited to show everyone my new website / blog. Of course you know what this means, right? I have to actually blog. hahaha No need to fear, I'll only try to do it once in a while, not every day. lol

Take a peek at my published stories pages, and the page that shows you the stories I'm trying to find a home for.

Thanks for coming!

~Phyllis~