Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Check out Tempered Hearts and Pamela S. Thibodeaux


Award-winning author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, “Inspirational with an Edge!” ™ and reviewed as “steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message.” Sign up to receive Pam’s newsletter and get a FREE short story!

2018 Character Interview from Tempered Hearts
Beverley: What’s your name?
Tamera: Tamera Collins
Beverley: Where did you grow up?
Tamera: Greenville, MS
Beverley: During what time period does your story take place?
Tamera: Depending on who you’re talking to the 70’s are either contemporary or Historical LOL!
Beverley: What’s your story/back story? Why would someone come up with a story about you?
Tamera: I grew up an only child with a passion for horses. As a young teen I decided I wanted to be a Veterinarian and specialize in caring for these beautiful creatures. Since I went to private school, it was easy to take extra classes and college courses and to finish my degree in Veterinary Medicine by the time I was twenty-four. I’m not sure why Pamela chose to write my and Craig’s story, but I’m glad she did.
Beverley: What’s your goal in this story?
Tamera: To be healed of my grief and to find a way to cope with my parents’ and fiancĂ©’s deaths and to simply do my job as summer Vet on the Rockin’ H ranch to the best of my ability. I didn’t expect to fall in love….
Beverley: What conflicts are you facing?
Tamera: Working for an arrogant jerk cowboy! At least that is my initial opinion of Craig Harris, heir to the Rockin’ H ranch in Bandera, TX and indirectly my boss. His grandfather is the one who actually hired me. He’s pretty jaded and chauvinistic when we first meet, but Craig and I learn to get along.
Beverley: Do you have a plan for resolving them?
Tamera: I’ve found that God and time have a way of resolving things much better than we can on our own and that we’d do well to just keep moving forward, do the best we can and trust that all things work together for good.
Beverley: Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you?
Tamera: Not necessarily just me but women in general….no matter how strong we are, how talented or smart, we still need tender care, nurturing and a strong man to be our helpmate in life. Ladies, if you find one, don’t let him get away! And gentlemen, if you find a strong woman, be her equal, not her opposite. You’ll both be better off lifting one another up instead of tearing each other down.

Blurb for Tempered Hearts:

Rancher Craig Harris and veterinarian Tamera Collins clash from the moment they meet.  Innocence is pitted against arrogance as tempers rise and passions ignite to form a love as pure as the finest gold, fresh from the crucible and as strong as steel.  Thrown together amid tragedy and unsated passion, Tamera and Craig share a strong attraction that neither accepts as the first stages of love.  Torn between desire and dislike, they must make peace with their pasts and God in order to open up to the love blossoming between them.  It is a love that nothing can destroy when they come to understand that only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.

Excerpt from Tempered Hearts:
“Leave the girl alone, Craig,” his grandfather warned as Craig took an ominous step toward her. His gray eyes flashed furiously. “She has the right to a day off. Tell her what happened so she can check on Rocky.”
Anger, desire, jealousy, and frustration were more than Craig could take. “I run a ranch here, and a ranch runs twenty-four seven. There’s no such thing as a day off. And as for you…”
He turned on his grandfather. “It’s a shame all it takes is a pretty face to turn you into a traitor.”
Tamera ground her teeth. She stepped toward him and her eyes dared him to say more as fury overrode her common sense.  “Don’t you dare talk to him like that!”
Craig’s eyes narrowed and jaw muscle twitched as he forcefully refrained from putting his hands on her. “He’s my grandfather; I’ll talk to him any way I please!”
“Not around me you won’t.”
“Tamera, you’re pushing it,” he warned. “You better back off before something happens that I’ll regret.”
Tamera glared at him for a moment, turned on her heel. “God forbid you should ever say or do something you’d regret.”
Craig grabbed her arm, twirling her around to face him. “The last thing I need right now is your smart mouth.”
Her reaction was instinctive, fueled by fury, as her palm connected with his cheek. “I told you once before not to manhandle me. I won’t tell you again.”
Wheeling his chair closer, Gramps tried again to diffuse the situation. Craig ignored his soft command, pulled Tamera firmly against his chest and forcefully restrained from beating her.
His hands bit into the soft flesh of her arms, his eyes narrowed into dangerous slits of steel. His jaw muscle throbbed furiously. Tamera’s chin lifted another notch. They glared at each other, neither willing to back down; both waiting for the other to continue or end the fight.
“Enough.” Gramps insisted when she continued to hold her ground despite the tear that rolled down her cheek.
Craig ground his teeth and pushed her away, releasing her from his punishing grip. Pride warred with the pain and anger in her eyes but Tamera made no attempt to rub her arms or brush the tear away. Head held high, fists clenched, she turned and stalked up the stairs. The door slammed behind her with a resounding thud.

Purchase Links for Tempered Hearts:
Audible: http://bit.ly/THAudio2
Amazon Print: http://amzn.to/1Elwhpx
Kindle http://amzn.to/1rdBRzW
B&N Print: http://bit.ly/1WpcBIp
Nook: http://bit.ly/1OdQyhT
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/16sLHL9

Author Links:
Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com
Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/psthibnewsletter
Face Book: http://facebook.com/pamelasthibodeaux
https://www.facebook.com/pamelasthibodeauxauthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/psthib @psthib
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/pamelasthibodea/
Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1jUVcdU
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/pamela-s-thibodeaux

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

Not About Writing - But My Dog


I’m late blogging. I was going to post on statistics about self-publishing but my wonderful, loving, sixteen-year-old Shiba Inu is not doing well.  Sachi doesn’t see too well anymore, and hearing is going. But she’s bee doing okay. Now she’s having seizures. She’s had three in the last few weeks, I phoned the vet after the first one, but they weren’t too concerned.
So, I started to do my research. Apparently, seizures are fairly common in dogs. I’ve read articles that say Vitamin B6 could help slow down seizures. CBD oil is also suggested as something that could help.  I’ve got her own both now. It took her about a day and a half for her to recover from her last one and her balance is a little off and I think she’s a little confused.
So, I’m spending a lot of time with her and hoping the medications will kick in and she’ll stabilize and hang out with us for awhile longer. Hopefully Sachi improves and I’ll be blogging and writing again soon. Anyone have any other suggestions I'd love to hear them.
 

Thursday, August 1, 2019

The Viking's Witch by Kelli A. Wilkins


Spotlight On… The Viking’s Witch
                                                   By Kelli A. Wilkins

I’m pleased to announce the release of my latest historical romance, The Viking’s Witch. This full-length novel is set in Celtic Scotland and blends a sensual love story with adventure and paranormal elements.

The Viking’s Witch

Scotland, 803 A.D.
About to be burned at the stake by her fellow villagers, Odaria does what any betrayed witch facing certain death would do. She calls down a curse. Within seconds, rampaging Norsemen raid the village, capturing everyone except her.

But her reprieve is short-lived, and Odaria lands in the clutches of the Norse leader Rothgar. Can she remain true to herself and fight her growing attraction to this domineering man, or will she fall under his influence and be used for his ambitions?

After Rothgar witnesses Odaria’s powers firsthand, he strikes a bargain with her. The raven-haired beauty will use her magical abilities to help him with his quest in exchange for safe passage off the isle. But can this cunning woman be trusted, or is she using him to exact vengeance on her village?
Together they must fight bloodthirsty villagers, battle a mutinous band of Norsemen, find a missing Norse ship, and learn to trust each other…before time runs out.

Order your copy here:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/%20ebook/dp/B07T15MHSW

Link to all other platforms:  https://books2read.com/u/4EQe0o

Read more about the book on my new site: www.kelliwilkins.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kelli A. Wilkins is an award-winning author who has published more than 100 short stories, 19 romance novels, 5 non-fiction books, and 2 online writing courses. Her romances span many genres and heat levels, and she’s also been known to scare readers with her horror stories.
Her latest historical romance, The Viking’s Witch, was released in June 2019. This full-length novel takes place in Celtic Scotland and blends a sensual romance with paranormal elements.

In March 2019, Kelli published Dangerous Indenture, a historical mystery romance set in Colonial Pennsylvania. She released the second half of her flash fiction series, Cupid’s Schemes, in early 2019. These two volumes of lighthearted mini-romances are perfect reads for a quick lunchtime escape or an after-work indulgence.
Kelli released her latest Teachable mini-course, Fiction Basics: Finding Ideas in February 2019. She authored Fiction Writing for Beginners through Teachable in 2018. These courses are perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to write. Visit: https://kelliwilkins.teachable.com/ for more details.
If you like horror fiction, don’t miss her latest novella, Nightmare in the North.

Not just an author, Kelli is also an amateur photographer. Visit her pages on Shutterstock https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kelli+wilkins and iStock https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/kelliwilkins to view her photos.
Kelli posts on her Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKelliWilkins and Twitter: www.Twitter.com/KWilkinsauthor.

Visit her NEW website www.KelliWilkins.com or blog http://kelliwilkinsauthor.blogspot.com/ to learn more about all of her writings.

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

New York, New York (and the FBI)


I know I missed last weeks post. I was at the Romance Writers of America National conference.
We stayed at a hotel on Time Square. Here’s a view from our window.


On Sunday, before conference started, we went to a show and saw Cher. I’m not a Cher fan. I like the music but sometimes she’s a little over the top. However, the show was great. It showed Cher’s life and the challenges she faced and how she survived and changed to meet the times. The music was awesome. It was fast paced and kept you watching. No dozing through this performance. And now I admire Cher.

On Tuesday we had an all-day workshop at the FBI. Lots of good information for writing mystery and suspense, and even romance.  In the morning after we passed through security, we learned about The Counterintelligence Program and Couunterterrorism/Domestic Terrorism with SABT’s (Special Agent Bomb Technician’s).
We had a catered lunch as we couldn’t leave the building. Then in the afternoon it was the Violent Crimes squad in New York. They had some great stories and had been partners for about seven years. They slipped in that they were now married (there’s the romance). After that we learned about the Criminal Justice Information Service, and how the Identity History Summary Checks system works. It was really interesting. I learned fingerprints aren’t all equal. The pinky makes the worst fingerprint and then the thumb.  There is also the Registry for Individuals with Special Concerns. Police carry a mobile finger printer and can get an identity in seconds.

If anyone has any questions, let me know and I’ll check my notes.

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Claudia Shelton and her Latest Book


Award-winning author Claudia Shelton could write her name before the first day of school, but now she writes romantic suspense, thrillers and contemporary romance. In addition, she presents workshops for readers and authors. Her debut novel, Risk of a Lifetime, released to 5-star reviews, reached Amazon's Best Sellers Romance Series Top 100 and was named one of eBooks Galore top reads for 2014. She is also a two-time nominated Daphne Du Maurier (Unpublished) finalist for excellence in mystery. Claudia is the author of the Shades of Leverage action-adventure romantic suspense series.
On a personal note, Claudia considers herself a traveler, music lover and water person. A cool drink while listening to the splash of waves is always nice—so is a mug of hot chocolate in the falling snow. Her main priority is spending time with family, friends and her two sweet, conniving rescue dogs.

Character Interview

Beverley: What’s your name?
Mitch: Mitch…OPAQUE Protector Agent Mitch Granger
Beverley: Where did you grow up?
Mitch: In a lower-middle-class suburb of Chicago where families worked hard, went to Mass on Sunday and looked out for each other.
Beverley: During what time period does your story take place?
Mitch: Now! Everything in my life has always been in the moment.
Beverley: What’s your story/back story? Why would someone come up with a story about you?
Mitch: Growing up, my dad knew how much I liked the water. So every few weeks my entire family would pile in the car, pull through a drive-thru to grab lunch and head to the Lake Michigan shoreline. Those couple of hours spent laughing and having fun were the happiest time of my life. Everything changed when my dad died. Now I do whatever it takes to keep people safe in the world.
Beverley: What’s your goal in this story?
Mitch: I've been assigned to protect Liz Walkert, so my goal is to make sure we both come out the other side breathing. Except…something about her is worming its way into my…I guess you'd call it my emotions, and I don't like that one bit! Can't happen—I don't have time for emotions.
Beverley: What conflicts are you facing?
Mitch: On assignment, I always think two or three steps ahead, but this time it's hard to figure out who to trust. Lies are everywhere.
Beverley: Do you have a plan for resolving them? 
Mitch: Yes, I've called in a few Shades of Leverage team members as back-up. I'm the leader on this assignment, but they'll be there to finish the job if I don’t come out the other side…breathing.
Beverley: Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you? 
Mitch: I'm good at my job. I love the water. And I'm responsible. That's it—I'm out of here!

Blurb for Dangerous Lies (Shades of Leverage Book 2)
To ex-Navy SEAL Mitch Granger, responsibility isn’t just a word. It’s his Code of Honor. But when assigned to protect Coercion Ten’s latest target, she challenges his authority, defies his rules, and wreaks havoc on his personal willpower. Fighting for her isn’t a problem. Giving his life for her isn’t a problem. Forgetting their world-stopping kiss? Definite problem. And if he can’t concentrate solely on keeping her safe, it may cost them both their lives.
Journalist Liz Walkert’s missing father sent her a cryptic message that she was in danger. What he didn’t tell her was why. Unbeknownst to Liz, her family has been in Witness Protection all her life. Mitch may be her bodyguard, but his protection comes close to being control, the one thing she has none of in his presence. After a kidnap attempt and a narrow escape from attacking CT forces, they both realize they’re going to need to focus on the mission and fight their attraction if they have any hope of surviving.
Each book in the Shades of Leverage series is STANDALONE:* Slater's Revenge* Dangerous Lies
Excerpt for Dangerous Lies (Shades of Leverage Book 2)
        The three of them moved inside the chopper and buckled up. One of the crewmen closed the door then radioed to the front that they were ready to leave.
        Mitch laid out the protection strategy in his mind. Devised his plan. Worked through all foreseeable obstacles. There were a lot of unknowns. Always were.
        "Who's in charge?" the crewman asked.
        "Me," Mitch replied.
        "Where to, sir?"
        "First, Dallas. Need a small jet waiting. Pilot ready for takeoff."
        The crewman relayed the info to the pilot.
        "Reese, make your way from Dallas to Utah the fastest way possible. Coordinate with Josh on arrangements. I want you to find out everything you can on her dad." Mitch stared into his eyes. "Talk to friends. Enemies. Get a photo and show it to people who don't recognize his name. Check out his house. Top to bottom. Inside and out. You know the routine."
        Liz leaned forward. "Don't forget the secret room in the house."
        "Got it." Reese nodded. "Where and when should I meet up with you two after that?"
        "I'll be in touch." Mitch motioned to the crewman.
        "Yes, sir."
        "Make the drop in Dallas fast. Set down. Ten seconds. Up. Head straight north thirty minutes. Send the bill to OPAQUE."
        "Yes, sir. Where should I tell the jet pilot you're headed?"
        "California. Coronado. NSWC. Have them get permission to land." Mitch leaned his head against the backrest, crossed his arms across his chest, and closed his eyes.
        "Tell them SEAL Reserve Lieutenant Mitch Granger requests shelter…for two."

Buy Links for Dangerous Lies (Shades of Leverage Book 2)
Amazon     Barnes & Noble     Kobo     Apple Books

You can find Claudia at:

FB:                https://www.facebook.com/ClaudiaSheltonWriter
Twitter:        https://twitter.com/ClaudiaShelton1
Newsletter: http://claudiasheltonauthor.com/
Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/claudiasheltonauthor/
Pinterest:     https://www.pinterest.com/claudiashelton1/

Saturday, July 20, 2019

What's Everyone Writing?


What book (or type of book) are you currently working on? Do you have ideas for future books?
I’m presently working on two books and hoping to have them both finished by the end of the year. The first book is the second in the series of The Foundation. It’s a book about a trio of wealthy women dedicated to helping women in jeopardy. It’s a romantic suspense with a touch of woman’s fiction.
Carly made it happen. She is the CEO.

Nadia is the supermodel and makes the contacts and finds volunteers.

Julie manages the finances and organizes the support system inkling transportation, vehicles, planes, and disguises and arranges fund raisers.

From working with abused women in shelters they progress to moving women to safer shelters away from home and then into forming an organization that protects women. As the organization grows, they train volunteers to go out in teams to assist women in jeopardy.

Their next team will be a paranormal team. to add another dimension to the organization. This is The Fourth Victim, Sara’s Story about a serial killer.

Liability Wife, the one I’m presently working on is the second in the series and Lydia’s story. Her husband, who she is divorcing, has hired a serial killer. And Carly is in South America trying to rescue someone she cares about, who is on the list.

I’m also working on The Hawkins’ Ranch series, book four, Escape - Gabe’s story. It’s a romantic Suspense.

This one is about an abused wife. Amy has suffered abuse for years. Finally, she decided it was escape or die. Now she’s running for her life and she doesn’t trust any man.
Gabe Hawkins, the oldest brother in the Hawkins family, has never found the right woman.  His brothers are all happily married and he’s the only who is still single. Riding around the ranch he finds a skinny, terrified, poorly dressed woman in her late twenties.  He’s not attracted to her, but he wants to protect her. That turns out to be harder than he thought. Even with the help of his family, can he keep her alive?

As for future books, I’m hoping to write the next two books in The Foundation, Maggie’s story and Diane’s story, romantic suspense with a touch of women's fiction. After that, well we'll see have to see.

Now I’m off to check out what the rest of the writing group are working on. Please check out their posts.
Skye Taylor http://www.skye-writer.com/blogging_by_the_sea
Marci Baun  http://www.marcibaun.com/blog/
Dr. Bob Rich https://wp.me/p3Xihq-1EW
Connie Vines http://mizging.blogspot.com/
Helena Fairfax http://www.helenafairfax.com/blog
A.J. Maguire  http://ajmaguire.wordpress.com/
Victoria Chatham http://www.victoriachatham.com
Judith Copek http://lynx-sis.blogspot.com/
Fiona McGier http://www.fionamcgier.com/
Rhobin L Courtright http://www.rhobincourtright.com