My very first author from Whispers Publishing - welcome, Marie Beau!

Hi Rachel, thanks for having me here today. I must admit this is my first published story and I’m very new to this stuff. Although I’ve been writing for a long time (ten years), actually being published is still a bit of a shock to the system. A happy shock I must admit!

1) Who is your favourite author and why? Oh, just one??? I love Nora Roberts, Susan Mallery, Sheryll Woods, Linda Lael Miller, Elizabeth Lowell, JoAnn Carter, Christine Warren, Suzanne Brockmann, Nicholas Sparks, Karen Kingsbury…and the eclectic list goes on and on. I just love to read. Books have been my best friends (well, don’t tell my best friend that) since I was a teenager.

2) When did you first consider yourself a writer? I was 31 when I started making up stories for my daughter at bed time (she liked mine better than any books I brought her). And even then I didn’t consider myself a writer. But eventually, I tried to put those stories down on paper. And that lead to me writing “the great novel”. You know, the one that was gonna be a best seller…yeah, well, that one is still waiting for a major rewrite – but someday…

3) Describe your writing space? LOL. I have this cluttered little table down in the basement – just off from the family room (that’s hardly ever used). There are three bookcases in the room – two with novels, and the big one is filled with publishing, agenting, writing tombs – most of which I’ve never read. A printer, a stereo, and some exercise equipment fills the rest of the room – oh, and a guitar.

4) What are you reading now? I’m actually reading three, no four books. “The Last Song” by Nicholas Sparks, “Can’t Stand the Heat” by Louisa Edwards, “Smoke Screen” by Sandra Brown, and a wonderful Christmas story that I’m editing (yes, I’m an editor too) that will come out next year. Not to mention the ones I’m critiquing. (I told you I love to read! I can’t get enough of it!)

5) How many books have your written? Eight so far, but this is the only one published. Which is your favourite? That answer changes depending on which one I’m working on. I’m not trying to be a slippery eel here, but I write in multiple genres and depending on my mood and frame of mind it could be any one of them. Kind of like, what’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

6) What comes first, plot or characters? Plot comes first – just ever so slightly. Because I don’t truly “plot” my stories other than a very general roadmap (I know where I’m starting, where I’m ending, and maybe a couple stops in between), my characters usually take the story line and run with it. It still amazes me how that works.

7) Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? Not so far, but I also don’t stick to a very strict writing schedule usually. I have to settle for squeezing it in when I can.

8) What do you like to do when you’re not writing? I play the guitar and write music, sometimes perform. Someday I hope to have some of my music published also.

9) Tell us about your latest book? Ahhhh, “Wolf!” Talk about stubborn meets determined, LOL.

Lyssa Merrick is perfectly happy with her life leading wildlife and wilderness expeditions through the upper Adirondacks. She’s proud of her business, and happy with the freedom to let her inner feline run whenever she feels the need.
Wolfe Reardon is pure alpha. As leader of his pack, he wants to create a wildlife sanctuary to allow certain species to repopulate the area, as well as to provide a safe environment for his pack free from the fear of hunters.
When Wolfe walks into Wilderness Wanderings, he knows he’s met his mate. Lyssa, unfortunately, is not so happy to discover her destined mate is a wolf. Long ago she swore she would never be a member of a pack again and she’s sure that nothing he says will change that.


10) What’s next for you? It’s not a question of next, really. It’s an ongoing process. I have two new stories I’m working on – at opposite extremes of the genre spectrum, I have three others in different stages of rewrite, and the one I’m going to start next will be the sequel to Wolf!

Wolf!
Release date: 10/1/2010
Whispers Publishing
http://www.whispershome.com/

For more about Lyssa and Wolfe, visit me at:
http://www.authormariebeau.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!
Marie

Great to have you here today, Marie - I've got to say the way you described your writing space was brilliant. i can really 'see' it in my mind's eye. Loved the blurb too - can you tell us a bit more about Whispers Publishing? You are the first author I have had visit who writes for them and would love to know more. Comments??

Sherry Gloag is here to talk about debut novel with The Wild Rose Press...

Hi, Sherry, thanks for being here today and your patience! I have a new Mac as opposed to a PC now and the difference is taking 'computer dunce' me awhile to get used to - so bear with me, pics to follow! Shall we start the interview, that at least, I have, LOL!

1) Did you set any goals for 2010?

No, J if I set specific goals, I rarely achieve them. My inner-self rebels. To get around that I try to entice myself by saying ‘wouldn’t it be great to…’
That said; certain goals turned up that I had to deal with. Learning to make a book trailer, learning to create and handle a blog, and website.

2) What is the best part of the writing process for you?

I just love writing. When you get into that magical place ‘the zone’, then that’s awesome. Everything else disappears, only your characters matter.

3) The worst part?

Oh my! It’s the opposite of being in ‘the zone’. Nothing works, your characters argue over every word you write, or worse, the words simply don’t come at all. Your mind blanks and you wonder what the heck you are doing spending hours staring at a blank screen. It even gets so bad I’ll go and deal with the housework!

4) What is the book you wish you’d written?

Anything by Nora Roberts! I know multiple pov’s are not popular, but I love getting into the head of the major characters. Georgette Heyer also wrote many novels I’d love to put my name too J

5) Favourite author/s & book/s?

I have too many favourite authors to mention just one. Likewise with books.

6) Tell us about your latest release?

The Brat is my debut novel, and is available on 1st October 2010 from The Wild Rose Press. It is set in England and Athens and revolves round dark secrets from the past that involve the heroine and hero. Secrets that could destroy Gina’s future and have a disastrous domino effect on Ben’s company if they are revealed.


7) Tease us with a blurb/short except

“You’re no better than your mother. I was a child when your mother ordered my life, but I’m a grown woman now and won’t be ordered around by you or anyone else. So don’t stand there sanctimoniously telling me it is your right to control my life for the next ten months. And when they end, what then? You drop your control, just like that? I doubt it. There’s not a Kouvaris on this planet that isn’t a control freak.”
She drew in a deep breath, glared at him when she came to a brief stop in front of him. “You’ll keep tabs on me, tell me what to do and when…”
“Why would I do that?” Cold as steel, Ben’s voice cut across her tirade, but it didn’t stop her.
“Because you’ll tell me it will impact on your reputation, or the company profile, or the value of the shares. How would I know? You’ll have a reason and expect me to abide by your ruling.” She spun away from him and back again. “Oh, I nearly forgot. As your ex-wife, someone may use me to get to you. Wasn’t that how you put it when we arrived in Greece?”
Hands fisted on her hips, her hair plastered against her fiery cheeks, she watched the colour climb up his neck and into his face. Until she heard the words hang in the air, she hadn’t known they were there. But she knew they’d hit their target head on.

8) What is your favourite attribute of the hero and heroine?

Gina, when she faces her ‘Ah-ha’ moment meets it head-on and deals with it.
Ben discovers, when he gives in to his father’s demands his world opens up in ways he never dreamed of. He has the courage and determination to fight for his new dreams.

9) What’s next?

I have two stories of a series of three written. Both need extensive work, and the third still refuses to shape up after two attempts.
I also have two wip at the moment. One is an experiment in writing a Regency romance. I love to read them, and for NaNo last year I began my own.
I am also experimenting with a mystery romance. That too was started during last year’s NaNo.

10) Tell me where you write?

I have my own space in the bedroom. When shut the door everyone knows not to interrupt. Mostly they don’t pay any attention to it!

11) Where would you like your career to be in 5 years?

Further down not only the writing path but the published path too. Certain characters stay with me they are so strong, and they deserve to have their stories out there. I’ll keep working to hone those stories so their dreams are fulfilled. Fulfilling their dreams will fulfill mine too.

12) Where can we find you?
You can find me at my blog - http://sherrygloagtheheartofromance.blogspot.com/
And my website – http://www.sherrygloag.com/
Or friend me at facebook - http://www.facebook.com/people/Sherry-Gloag/689789287
The Brat will be available from The Wild Ross Press in print and ebook.
http://thewildrosepress.com/publisher/ from 1st October 2010 and shortly after from Amazon.com other outlets

Thank you again, Rachel for having me here today.

You're welcome, Sherry! I can't believe how many projects you have going on right now, I would have a head explosion! Can you tell us more about the series you are writing - I have always fancied writing a series myself but haven't found the right setting or storyline to start one yet. What made you decide a series was for you?

Can't wait for Downton Abbey, can you??

OK, all you Edwardian enthusiasts or English period costume drama fans out there...there is a brand new series out going out tonight on British TV and I am so excited about it that today cannot go fast enough! I am sooo looking forward to snuggling up on the sofa tonight, clad in thick, teddy-beared pyjamas and a cold glass of Pinot Grigio beside me!

Downton Abbey starring Dame Maggie Smith and the debonair Huge Bonneville is sure to have all the ingredients of what we love about these shows. Intrigue, romance, subterfuge and greed will undoubtedly be in abundance and I love it! And then you have the costumes, the house used as the Abbey itself, the surrounding countryside...mmm, perfection.

The only downside? The series is written by Oscar winning writer, Julian Fellowes so the dialogue will be crisp, witty, thoroughly engaging and most likely of such high-calibre, I will never want to return to the keyboard again. But then, I know I will because what choice do I have? I write historical romance because I love it and already know Downton Abbey will have me buoyed up and ready to go tomorrow. Not in the hope of becoming the script writer Julian Fellowes is, but the best romance writer Rachel Brimble can be...bring it on!

I'd love to know if you will be watching or start any conversation at all about writing, the Edwardian period, English settings, country estates, I could talk about it all!

Welcome, Western Romance writer, Amber Leigh Williams!

Great to have you visit with me again, Amber. Hope you are well! It is always great to have another Wild Rose author on my page and the fact you're here to talk about hunky cowboys makes it even better!

Ah, the western frontier! All those wide, open spaces – and I’m not just referring to the landscape. But the story possibilities are endless! I love western romance. It all started with Nora Roberts’ Lawless and the perfect cowboy hero – Jake Redman. He hooked me from the opening line of the back cover blurb – “Half-Apache, all man…” My love for the genre bloomed from there, helped along by a few favorites.

While researching my first foray into the western romance world, I realized what an utter newbie I was while attending my first rodeo. A whole new world I never knew existed opened up before my eyes, loud, semi-crazy, and oh-so-pungent. I learned that the rodeo world, much like the ranching world, is an entire culture unto itself. I knew already that I would be aiming for contemporary and that my hero would be a bull-rider. In a way, it felt like taking a step back in time – to the rough and tumble days of Dirty Harry or Wyatt Earp. Neither sat on the back of a mean, bucking bull for eight seconds, but there was something in that arena that harkened back to those wide open possibilities of the American West.

My western trilogy, now published in ebook and audio – Blackest Heart (available now), Bluest Heart (available now), and Bet It On My Heart (audio edition coming September 28) – is based in the small western town of Wayback, Texas. Wayback was formed by the Yellow Rose imprint of The Wild Rose Press. It was a job trying to bring the unfamiliar world of rodeo to life on the page. I liked the idea of a pre-determined setting for my unraveling saga. And I had the immense pleasure of “researching” Wayback with the first stories published in the series by Rita Thedford
(Hot Night at the Blue Bug Saloon) and Judith Rochelle (Shadow of the Hawk). These talented authors not only launched the new series with a bang – they set the bar very high for every Wayback story to follow. For Bet It On My Heart in particular, I wanted to explore the magic and mystery that is the Texas landscape. In my research, I stumbled across the celestial Marfa Lights. This strange phenomenon makes a magical moment between the hero and heroine of this book even more magical!

I learned much from my time in Wayback. For one, I love ranch life almost as much as the Ridge family itself. In fact, I’m planning two more western sagas – one paranormal and another contemporary. It’s only right that I research ranching the same way I researched rodeos – by visiting a dude ranch. And you can be sure I’ll be back to give readers the skinny on that experience!

Until then, visit The Wild Rose Press (http://www.thewildrosepress.com/amber-leigh-williams-m-352.html?zenid=15b27dd3979aed4f6e9b807430fc1daa) to check out Wayback and the dysfunctional Ridge family saga in ebook edition. On September 28, Bet It On My Heart will complete the Ridge family’s audio book collection at AudioLark (http://www.audiolark.com/books/tag/amber-leigh-williams/). Thank you, Rachel, for letting me share with your readers! And…it’s only fittin’ that I add a big Yeehaw! Happy reading J

Amber Leigh Williams

www.amberleighwilliams.com

“Williams has brought the romantic back to romance!” ~ Long & Short Reviews

Great post, Amber! I must admit, I am yet to read a single Western romance so guess where I'm going next?? I assume Blackest Heart is the first in your trilogy? It seems fitting that my first experience should be written by the fair hand of one of my guests! OK, Amber is waiting for your comments, people!

Welcome, author Claire Ashgrove to my blog today!!

Claire is here today to talk about her own writing routines, likes & dislikes as well as getting us all in the mood for Christmas with her next release from The Wild Rose Press. It's great to have you here, Claire. I have been over to your website and love the colors you have going on, it looks beautiful. Let's get started with the interview!

1) What is your writing routine?

As a person who sneaks in time whenever she can, when I write during the day there’s no routine. It’s grab the laptop type out what I can when the kids are actually quiet. At night, however – different story. I have to watch two episodes of Golden Girls, and one repeat of Cheers, then I have to have the television on one of the three History Channel’s before I can put any cohesive words on paper. Coffee must be present, as well as something I can munch on. And I prefer, beyond the murmur of the narrator, silence in the house.

2) Which author/s inspire you to write?

Oh gosh – this is tough. It started early on with Johanna Lindsey. These days Karin Tabke motivates me a great deal. My critique group, however, inspires me the most, which means fellow TWRP author, Dyann Love Barr. Ironically, though he’s not a romance author, Steve Berry also. I love speculative fiction, and incorporate a great deal of it into my paranormals.

3) Which is your favorite romance subgenre to read? To write?

To be completely honest with you, I don’t do a lot of romance reading for pleasure. Two reasons – when I’m reading it doesn’t feel “productive”, so I’d rather read a nonfiction. The other, I know I have a habit of picking up other author voices and I will lose mine, inevitably, for the first two or three pages when I return to writing. Which is incredibly frustrating. When I do read though, it’s more commonly historicals.

Writing… hrm… that’s another hard answer. I write contemporary, paranormal, and historical. Each fits a certain need at the time and a certain aspect of my personality. Contemporaries fill the “Just need to get words out” gap. Paranormals allow me to work on scoping sub plots. Historicals fulfill my love of history and making it come to life. So I don’t think I have a true favorite.

4) How do you deal with criticism/rejection?

It’s just part of the game. I can’t please everyone and don’t expect to. I received close to 200 rejections before I finally acquired an agent and sold to Tor Books. Out of those 200, I can think of 2 that really upset me. (And that doesn’t include the honest response I got from one two years ago who informed me bluntly, “Your hero is naive and immature and not suitable to the demands of the industry.”) The others – filed away without a backward glance. If an author wants to succeed, he or she can’t get bogged down with rejections. Learn from constructive criticism. Toss everything else, especially the ones that offer no feedback and are form replies. There really is no veiled message.

5) What do you expect from an editor?

Professionalism. A broad eye and ability to see the bigger picture within the story. I freelance edit as well, so grammar nuances aren’t such a big issue for me. I’m looking more for the ability to take what’s on the page, draw out the unique, and improve what I (usually) feel confident about already. More than anything, I want my editor to be as enthusiastic about the project as I am. As I hope to be in this business a long time, I hope to be able to grow under him/her and improve as well as meet ever-changing industry demands.

6) Tell me about your latest release

My latest “release” is a holiday story, which has a seasonal interest. I’d rather tell you about my coming release.

I worked on a Christmas trilogy with Alicia Dean and Dyann Love Barr about the three King brothers who return home for a surprising Christmas. My book, A Christmas To Believe In, releases on November 24^th, and is the third book in the trilogy, about the oldest King brother, Clint.

7) Tease us with a blurb or short excerpt

When a man's dreams are in ruin,

All he needs is someone to believe...

Struggling Thoroughbred breeder, Clint King, hasn't been home for Christmas in five years. This year, his prize mare's due to foal any day, and in the wake of his father's death, Clint can't stand the idea of returning. Except, Alex is getting married on Christmas Eve, and their mother's put her foot down. With his mare in tow, Clint prepares to meet a sister he's never known, and Alex's unexpected triplets. The one salvation he looks forward to is childhood companion, tomboy Jesse Saurs. Yet when he reunites with Jesse, he uncomfortably discovers she's become all woman.

Jesse has everything she needs -- financial security, a home, and a foster child who's about to become her son. With Ethan's final hearing scheduled just before Christmas, her dreams will come true. When she learns Clint and his brothers are returning, she anticipates a holiday reunion that's sure to entertain Ethan. But on the night of Clint's return, the "brother" she expected leaves her trembling after a hug. Even worse, Ethan makes it clear Clint's not welcome.

Will Christmas destroy hopes and dreams, or will it become the gift they've all been longing for?

8) Which is your favorite character in the book? Why?

Clint is my favorite character in this book, although I very much enjoy Jesse as well. He has a quiet presence, which (although he doesn’t know it) exudes strength. He’s somewhere in between an Alpha and a Beta hero. Alpha in the sense he knows what he wants. Beta in the sense he lacks a certain confidence in himself. His vulnerabilities make my heart swell. Just like they make Jesse’s.

9) What is next for you?

I have a brand new paranormal series coming through Tor books. It is a sweeping saga about immortal Knights Templar, arch demons, and heroines who descend from the Nephilim. Azazel, the master of darkness, intends to eradicate the Almighty through the acquisition of nine sacred relics. To stop the unholy ascension, the Templar must first locate their prophesized mates and conquer the ever-growing darkness in their souls.

10) What are you working on right now?

I am working on the third book in the Templar series, and will be focusing on some different paranormal projects for the immediate future.

11) Your biggest piece of advice to aspiring novelists?

Everybody has the ability to write and to get published. Just like any other true “art” or any other professional endeavor, where you want to go with your writing depends on your level of commitment. You can’t count on lucking into becoming the CEO of a major corporation. You must work for it. Hone every little aspect pertaining to the job demands. Study the competition. And like any artist or athlete, you must train and condition daily. Force yourself into a routine if you must. Routines become habit. Habit lends to automatic improvement the more you do something. The old adage “Practice makes perfect” is very applicable, although I firmly believe even the most acclaimed authors always have room to perfect already good craft.

12) Where can readers find you?

My website is: www.claireashgrove.com and I have a newsletter signup available there.

I am also active on the following blogs:

Romance Books R Us

The Muse (my personal blog)

Cascade Literary Agency Blog

All of which are also accessible through my website.

Great to 'meet' you, Claire - really enjoyed finding out more about your work routine and listening to your wonderful advice. Can I ask how you landed an agent? Was it through submitting or a contest entry? I've been talking about this a lot lately with other writers and would love your input! Ok, readers and writers, Claire's awaiting....

Getting Ready to Roll Back to the '80s!!!

It is less than two weeks until the release of my very first novella-length story and I cannot wait!! I have dedicated this story to old my school friends who went to Downend County Primary School with me back in 1985, and I really hope all my old girlfriends track it down and buy a copy.

Writing this book was a lot of fun because I wrote most of it with my favourite '80s songs on in the background to get the mood really going. The heroine, Lisa Cavendish is a mixture of how I imagine my grown-up friends from the '80s to be as well as a dose of myself thrown in. Knowing she lived through a time that I have myself, I felt I could write her honestly as well as authentically - and certainly a lot easier than I can my current heroine...a twenty-two year old in 19th century Bath, LOL!

Anyway, this post was just a reminder that Transatlantic Loving will be available in e-format only from September 29th - here's the link for the download.

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/transatlantic-loving-p-4244.html

Have a great weekend! Oh, and don't forget to cast your vote on my poll!

xxx

Welcome my very first guest who writes for Whiskey Creek Press - Elaine Cantrell!

Hi Elaine!

I am so excited to have you here today because 1) I've never interviewed an author who writes for Whiskey Creek Press and would love to learn more about them and 2) I am dying to know who designed the cover for Return Engagement! It is stunning!

Anyway, we can chat more when all my lovely readers join us, let's get on with the interview...

1) Who is your favorite author and why?

Wow, that’s a hard one! I like the way Elizabeth Peters mixes comedy, romance, and mystery. I like the way Larry McMurtry creates memorable characters. I like the way Margaret Mitchell wove fact and fiction so beautifully together. I like Heather Graham’s depiction of the paranormal. I could go on and on. When you read as much as I do there’s no such thing as one favorite author.

2) When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Truthfully, not until very recently. In my head I guess I always thought it was a mistake because I couldn’t possibly be good enough to write novels. But I am. I’ve had six books published and have another on the way. When I finally accepted the truth, my confidence level shot through the roof.

3) Describe your writing space?

Until my computer died a sudden and violent death, I wrote in my little office across from my bedroom. I moved all of my favorite things into the room-my bookcase filled with my favorite books, a nice desk, a TV, a small bed for naps. It was great, and then my husband found it. He liked it so much he moved his things in there too. It was a bit crowded, but if I turned my desk chair around he’d give me a foot rub or paint my toenails for me which was really great.

All of that changed after the computer died. My husband called me one day to say that he’d bought me a laptop. It’s really a wonderful computer, but it doesn’t fit properly onto my desk. These days I’m writing downstairs in my recliner with my laptop on my lap. I don’t like it nearly as well.

4) What are you reading now?

I just finished Lancelot’s Lady by Cherish DeAngelo and have started Corsair by Clive Cussler. Obviously, I read more than just romance.

5) How many books have your written? Which is your favourite?

I have six books to my credit with a seventh coming either late this year or early next year. My favorite is usually the one I’m working on, but I do have a fondness for Return Engagement. I loved my characters so much I’ve written a sequel and have a third book mostly finished.

6) What comes first, plot or characters?

Plot, always the plot.

7) Do you ever suffer from writer’s block?

I sure do! I’m going through it right now, but I’m trying to write my way out of it.

8) What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I like to collect vintage Christmas ornaments, read, go to movies, and play with my grandchildren.

9) Tell us about your latest book?

Return Engagement is my latest. It came out July 1 and is published with Whiskey Creek Press. http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Here’s a blurb about the book:

Elizabeth Lane has heard the call of the four most seductive words in the entire English language: what might have been. Would you risk everything you hold dear to find out what might have been? That’s the choice which Elizabeth has to make.

Elizabeth is lucky, for she has it all, money, fame, a satisfying career and a devoted fiancé. Her humble beginnings are all but obscured, but she isn’t the kind of woman Senator Henry Lovinggood wants for his son, Richard. Senator Lovinggood plans to make Richard the President of the United States; he’ll need a woman from a wealthy, powerful family by his side. Ten years ago he broke Richard and Elizabeth up, but this time it won’t be so easy, for Elizabeth wants to know what might have been. This time she’ll fight back, a struggle which ultimately leads to kidnapping and attempted murder and alienates her from the man of her dreams.

10) What’s next for you?

I’ll soon be doing edits for a book called Kara’s Change of Heart which will be published by Lachesis Publishing. I’m also editing my sequel to Return Engagement.

Thanks for having me, Rachel.

You're so welcome, Elaine! Please tell us more about your experience with Whisky Creek Press, I'd love to know. OK, people, Elaine is waiting...

Guest Blogger Interview-Alison Chambers

Welcome to my blog, Alison! I so enjoy getting to know other Wild Rose Press writers I have spoken to. Can't wait to learn more...

1) What is your writing routine?

There’s nothing hard and fast about it. I write when I want to, when I feel the urge. Though I do try to write three double-spaced pages a day; five thousand words a week is optimal. That way you can have a book finished in six months and then allow a few more months for editing. I also need to find time for promotion so I spend a few hours a day doing that, preferably in the morning.

2) Which author/s inspire you to write?

I started reading mysteries and thrillers, first Nancy Drew stories as a girl, then mysteries by Mary Roberts Rinehart and thrillers by Alistair MacLean. As I got older, authors like Mary Stuart, Danielle Steel and Barbara Taylor Bradford inspired the romantic side of me. Today, I enjoy Clive Cussler, Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child and Dan Brown.
In romance, I like Christina Dodd and Kat Martin.

3) Which is your favorite romance subgenre to read? To write?

Romantic suspense, without a doubt, on both counts. The intrigue of the mystery blends with the excitement of the romance and creates a good, well-rounded story. I think it helps give the characters more depth when you show their romantic sides. And they’re hard to write because you are essentially telling two stories, layering one on top of the other.

4) How do you deal with criticism/rejection?

It’s never easy but if you choose to give up, what have you gained? It helps to realize that all of the top authors received a lot of rejection and bad reviews at one time and they didn’t quit. You just have to have a thick skin about it. You can even learn from the negative comments when you can stand to read them. The constructive criticism can help.

5) What do you expect from an editor?

Editors can help reshape the story so it’s the most powerful, can find the weak spots and the mistakes. Editors make you a better writer.

6) Tell me about your latest release

“The Secret Sentinel” is part “National Treasure,” part “Romancing the Stone.” It’s the treasure hunt of a lifetime!

7) Tease us with a blurb or short excerpt

Three lost keys to untold riches. Three cryptic rhymes. A secret society's deadly plot.When museum curator Savannah Rutledge steals her father's treasure map to impress her boss, Winston Gale, and his handsome son Eric, she unleashes a Pandora's box of horror. Her father is killed and she is framed for murder. To atone for her father's death, she sets off on a cross-country chase for the treasure that ends with a dangerous showdown in the Superstition Mountains near Phoenix. To get there she and a sexy stranger, Antonio Desada, follow a perplexing trail of clues that lead them to the keys that will unlock the mystery. Constantly moving, they must elude the police and the vicious Gales, hot on their trail once they realize they're missing a critical part of the map. Seductive and mysterious, Desada also provides the keys to a treasure of another kind. Will Savannah find the treasure—and love--before it's too late?

8) Which is your favorite character in the book? Why?

I love Savannah the best because she was presented with a terrible problem in the beginning. Her father was murdered and she believes it’s her fault. She resolves to avenge his death against overwhelming odds.

9) What is next for you?

My next book throws two opposite types together into the jungles of Belize—the stars of two top TV reality shows—in search of Montezuma’s lost gold.

10) What are you working on right now?

I’m working on a story about a search for the mysterious Virgo Stone. Both new books are in the same vein as “The Secret Sentinel”, part “National Treasure,” part “Romancing the Stone,” two of my favorite movies. A reviewer said she hoped I’d make a series out of “The Secret Sentinel” so I am in the process of doing just that.

11) Your biggest piece of advice to aspiring novelists?

Never give up, keep reading and learning and trying. That’s all that matters. And read and write what you enjoy.

12) Where can readers find you?

Visit me at www.alisonchambersromance.com “The Secret Sentinel” is available from www.thewildrosepress.com Thanks for having me Rachel!

Great having you, Alison! I agree with so much you have said, we work with the same 5,000 word goal a week, love romantic suspense and believe the same things about editors, LOL! Alison is waiting to hear from you, folks!

A sneak peek into Fleeta Cunningham's world...welcome!!

Hi Fleeta,

I am so excited to have you here, a day before the launch of your brand new novel, Elopement for One. I love launch day! I have just looked at your author's page on The Wild Rose Press website and see that all your novels have a theme running through the artwork, I'd love to hear more about that after the interview!

1. Did you set any goals for 2010?
I always set goals for the new year. This year's goal is to finish the fourth and fifth books of the Santa Rita series. I've love working on the series but I have a couple of other projects—a true historical and a coming-of-age book—that I want to work on. Another goal is to get my office done so I can have my reseach materials, files, and desk all in the same room.

2. What is the best part of the writing process for you?
The best part is exploring the characters and listening to them tell me the story. I always think I know how the story goes but I usually learn from my players that I only thought I knew what was going on. As I get to know the characters and learn their secrets and deal with their problems, I find the story is as surprising for me as I hope it is for my readers.

3. The worst part?
The worst part is always finishing the first draft. I go back, look at scenes, realize that my original plans have changed and I have to put things in, take things out, fix dialogue, or figure out where in the world some bit of action fits because one of my characters has grown in a way I didn't anticipate. So finishing the draft is a very slow process for me and I don't suffer from having patience. I want to get on with polishing and finishing. That first draft just won't let go till I've tidied all the plot threads.

4. What is the book you wish you’d written?
Oh, I wish I'd been the one to write Diana Gabaldon's Outlander. It's such a wonderful, stormy and passionate book. I've read all her others but that first introduction to Jamie and Claire is priceless.

5. Favourite author/s & book/s?
This is an everchanging list. It depends on my mood, what's going on in my life and where I am on the current WIP. I adore Amanda Quick and Susan Elizabeth Phillips. Victoria Alexander is always a fun read. I've just finished Jade Lee's White Tigress and loved it. On the all time favorites I have to include Louisa May Alcott, Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, and Phyllis Whitney. I read Little Women when I was eight and Gone With the Wind when I was nine and I was hooked on novels forever. I just read Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and it was a headlong rush down an icy slope all the way. I read a little bit of everything—romance, mystery, suspense, and historical fiction. One of my new favorites is Tiffany Green's Innocence series. Her Regency England is a fascinating place.



6. Tell us about your latest release?
The new book, ELOPEMENT FOR ONE for Wild Rose Press. will be out September 10 and I'm really excited about it. It's the third book of the Santa Rita series. The setting is small town Texas and the time is the mid 1950's with all those cool cats, hot rods and party dolls, as well as the great clothes and music of the time. I had such a wonderful time writing the story and I hope my readers enjoy Zach and Troy as much as I did. We're doing the launch and first book signing at the Wildseed Farm wildflower center in Fredericksburg. They graciously permitted me to use the center as a bit of the background for the story and I thought it was the perfect place to launch the book.

7. Tease us with a blurb/short excerpt
The hour comes, the crowd awaits, and the groom impatiently stands at the altar, but Troy chooses not to attend the wedding – and she’s the bride!
Leaving behind the elaborate wedding along with a glittering solitaire, Troy flees a future tainted by her fear of the man she promised to marry. Childhood friend Zach stands waiting to help her escape…but answers her thanks with a with a stern warning:

“You leap into things, never think about the consequences, and then find you can’t get out of the mess. But, little girl, I promise this is the last time I’ll ride to your rescue.” Zach loves this beautiful girl, but he’s been getting her out of trouble most of her life. He’s had enough of her escapades.
Troy suspects she feels more than friendship for her childhood hero. In turning to him this time, she may have lost him forever.

8. What is your favourite attribute of the hero and heroine?
Troy is known for hatching half-baked schemes and ducking out on the consequences. The daughter of a wealthy, self-made man, she appears to have everything—money, social postion, a fairytale wedding with a handsome groom and a carefree future. In truth her hopes and ambitions have been smothered by her domineering dad and the man he thinks she should marry. When she sees no other way to escape marriage to a man who actually frightens her, she abandons all she knows of wealth and comfort to find a life for herself in Santa Rita. Though she believes herself to be a coward, Troy is determined to face life and accept responsiblility for her own actions. No more will she let others straighten out the messes her impulsive actions have created. Troy's spunk and courage touch me and her determination to become her own person make her a delightful character to know.
Zach, Troy's childhood hero and brother of her best friend, is a tower of good sense and understanding. He's loved her all his life but believes that a spoiled, implusive debutante is the last person a struggling young lawyer should marry. Still it's Zach to the rescue one more time as Troy begs for help escaping the church when she can't face the marriage she's foolishly agreed to. He's willing to give her the chance to grow, to become the woman she was born to be. His concern, his patience, and the surprisng depth of his love for Troy touched me. I liked watching his assessment of the flighty hoyden-next-door change as Troy matured, found her own strengths, and realized her hero worship had grown to real, lasting love for him.

9. What’s next?
Next is the story of Nina and her search for the truth about the mysterious disappearance of her young groom an hour after the wedding. Along the way she recovers a missing 1955 yellow T-Bird, meets Peter, and finds that even the people she thought she knew had deeply hidden facets to their lives. The book is called HALF PAST MOURNING and I'm having a wonderful time getting to know Nina, Peter, and the story behind the story.

10. Tell me where you write?
I write anywhere. The first chapter of ELOPEMENT was written in a hotel room with my laptop and me under the covers so the light wouldn't bother my roommate. It was at an RWA conference. Usually I write in my bedroom surrounded by cats while hoping the phone won't ring for another few minutes. Shortly I hope to be working in the room I'm converting into an office. I took a workshop at Nationals one year. The speaker talked about the importance of a writer having his/her own space for writing and I took it to heart. With luck, in about three or four weeks, I'll have a lovely lavender room with shelves and file drawers, a comfortable desk and chair, and perhaps a reduced number of cats and phone calls. At least I'm clinging to the idea.



11. Where would you like your career to be in 5 years?
On somebody's bestseller list, of course. In addition I'd like to have the two volume historical set in print, have the coming-of-age book out and perhaps take time to write the three book series I want to do about war brides. And re-visit Santa Rita from time to time. I love that little town and the time period where it exists.
12. Where can we find you?
My webpage is www.fleetacunningham.com for excerpts from the books and tabs that tell about my book signings, places I'm speaking, and when books will be coming out. In addition, I blog on www.authorsbymoonlight.com and write about life in small towns, quirks of the fifties, and talk about the books and what is happening in them. And I love to hear from readers. I have great readers and they give me interesting tips and ideas. My email address is fgcunningham@yahoo.com. Books are available through The Wild Rose Press, amazon.com and most of the on-line book stores. Come by and visit Santa Rita anytime. We'll leave the welcome mat out and a light on in the hall.


Fleeta Cunningham

Descended from a gypsy girl and the son of a Georgia planter, Fleeta is a fifth generation Texan. She grew up in the Panhandle of Texas and graduated from Texas Tech and the University of Texas. She began writing at the age of eight when she decided to re-write ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ to remove the interval in the coffin. She’s been convoluting plots ever since. Fleeta spent more than twenty years as a librarian, most of them in libraries of large law firms. She wrote a monthly column for a professional newsletter for several years and contributed to a number of legal industry publications including National Law Journal. She served on legal publication advisory boards for Clark Boardman and RIA publishers.
The Santa Rita 1950’s series is based on the numerous small towns Fleeta lived in all over Texas. She finds the time period romantic and exciting, while small towns offer a colorful background for her eclectic characters. Don’t Call Me Darlin’ , the first of the series, is set in 1957 and is filled with 50’s slang, jazzy cars, and a redhead to remember. Coming up will be Black Rain Rising, a story about a country singer under investigation for murder, and followed by stories of a bride running away from the church an hour before her wedding, an abandoned wife’s elusive yellow T-bird, and the family saga of three sisters and the men who won’t stay gone. Watch for them.
Presently Fleeta lives in yet another small town in Central Texas where she writes full time, presides as Director of the Altar Guild at her church, and serves as housekeeper for her four feline roommates. She loves to hear from her readers and welcomes e-mail at fgcunningham@yahoo.com.

I always like to find something I have in common with my guests and once again I've found it with Fleeta - the first draft thing. Completely the same with me in that the book never lets me go when its supposed to and I end working on it and working on it...LOL! Anyway, over to you guys, questions and comments if you please!

Today I am interviewing Sandra Sookoo - welcome!!

Happy to have you visit with me today, Sandra. I can't wait to learn more about you because you are one of the names I see a lot online but don't think we've spoken before I put the call out for guest bloggers. It's lovely to finally 'meet' you!

1) Who is your favourite author and why?
That is very difficult to say considering I don’t limit reading to one genre. I like a lot of authors but for many different reasons on any given day LOL

2) When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When I finished my first book. I’ll always be a writer, but it’s determination and a willingness to stick with the craft after things go awry that makes a writer into an author.

3) Describe your writing space?
LOL I don’t really have a “space” since I use a laptop. I’ll write just about anywhere, the sofa, the bed, wherever. I do, however, have a tiny desk tucked away in a corner of the guest bedroom where I do outlining and promo stuff.

4) What are you reading now?
At the moment I’m reading “Faeires Gone Wild” It’s an antho from assorted paranormal authors. I’m also reading the first Cackleberry Mystery from Laura Childs.

5) How many books have your written? Which is your favourite?
LOL I really don’t know at this point. Let’s say it’s over 10. My favorite? Wow, that’s like trying to say which kid you like best LOL But, if I had to pick it would be a toss up between my upcoming sci-fi BLINK and a recently released humorous romance WEDGIE TALES AND PANTY LINES.

6) What comes first, plot or characters?
For me, they kind of evolve parallel to each other. I do outline beforehand and go over the characters to really bring them to life. A book can’t survive without both these elements.

7) Do you ever suffer from writer’s block?
Of course! Every writer worth their salt does at one time or another. During these times, I try to remind myself it’s okay and that inspiration will return before too long.

8) What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I’m in the kitchen, baking and cooking. It relaxes me.

9) Tell us about your latest book?
Well, my latest is called DAMAGED CARGO and will be coming from Purple Sword Publications on September 15th.
It’s the first sci-fi romance for me this year and I can’t wait to delve further into this genre!

Blurb: When survival is of the utmost importance, it’s best to shoot first and ask questions later, especially if you won’t like the answers.

The 22nd century is heinous. Finding a comfortable life in the Levinese Galaxy grows increasingly difficult.

Emma Gardine, one of a handful of female pirate captains in this throwback Victorian society, begs, borrows, steals and cheats her way through the planetary system on the hunt of a profit. An expert of guarding her heart and keeping people out, she never shows remorse and uses people until she gets what she wants, yet the hope for a normal life glimmers just beyond her reach. Then she meets Tarik Vartouth and her world splinters with new emotions and possibilities.

Tarik survived the murder of his sisters and the collapse of his laid-back existence. He’s sick of the mandatory breeding programs for genetic supremacy on Nazulara that sends innocent people to death and desires to campaign for democracy for his species. When the opportunity to befriend Emma is presented, he takes it and makes a play for her ship in order to carry out his own plot for revenge against his father—the Premier and ruler of the planet. Stakes are raised when sparks between him and Emma fly. Now their future and Nazulara’s, hangs in the balance.

Publisher’s website: http://www.purplesword.com


10) What’s next for you?
Well, on the release front I have several upcoming books. Drop by my website http://www.sandrasookoo.com to keep current on things. From here you can connect to me on Facebook, Twitter and my blog.

As for what I’m writing, well I just finished a historical story. I need to write a couple of short stories and finish a full-length historical before I can move on to other projects. It’s a very exciting time!

Great to have you here, Sandra! I just have to ask, how did you come up with the title Wedgie Tales & Panty Lines? I love it! In fact, I might just have to pop over to the Wild Rose website...

Welcome, my friend and fellow Wild Rose author, Joanna Aislinn!

So happy to welcome you to my blog, Joanna - we have chatted so much through Facebook, I feel as though you are my friend as well as a fellow Wild Rose Press writer. Really looking forward to your blog and gaining the advantage of sharing your experiences...take it away!

Hello everyone. So happy to have made my virtual way to the UK—I’ve been wanting to visit London forever; Scotland would be a lovely stop, too. Special thanks to Rachel for having me here today!

A little about me:

This avid reader’s writing roots stretch back to my early teenage days. Life got in the way until ten years ago, when the story playing out in my head wanted a more concrete virtual home. When I finally got the guts to submit, I was lucky enough to have my manuscript land on wonderful editor Vicky Reed’s virtual desk. No Matter Why (The Wild Rose Press) hit the virtual shelves on January 15, 2010. At present, I’m busy with its sequels, learning everything I can about promo, building a web presence, making lots of friends online and finding time to work a day job and manage a home along with everything else! She really has no idea when she actually writes anymore. J

Back to that promo part: the necessary evil that allows the world to know me and maybe even want to buy my book(s) someday:

I've been coming across quite a few author-frustrated-with-promo-issues and find myself VERY grateful to know I have lots of company. Read one just this morning at 1^st Turning Point (love that place!). Mary McCall did a great job talking about promotion and her frustrations. Read lots of good points in the comments, too. Thanks to the crew, guest bloggers and all of you who leave such great comments all the time!

Okay, so I got wordy as I tapped out what should have been a sentence or two response. (Me???) Then I decided to copy my ‘comment’ since it seemed to have some useful elements. (You, of course, can come up with your own opinion on that, lol!) Here they are, some tips, ideas and opinions I’ve picked up over the course of the past year or so since my blog made it onto the webmap. Take what you like and leave the rest! J

Try to give your blog its own unique flavor. People like to feel they have something in common or something they relate to. When I can, I relate it to writing because (1) I write, and (2) some of my readers are aspiring and/or newly pubbed authors and learning their way as I am. As Skhye Moncrief said during her spot, consistent posting definitely helps. That is, however, quite an undertaking—there is just too much to do on a daily basis, especially w/a day job, career and/or family in addition to the writing itself. Add the promo and what little time there is seems to be shot. I'm trying to create a new mindset and not try to make my posts too long. (Who—author or reader—has time to read something too drawn out anyway? As you can see, I already fell short, lol.)

Passing the bloglight to others helps promote them, helps me with time and ideas and has recently brought people to me w/other ideas along with the offer of articles—how cool is that? Plus, it allows my blog to evolve and change and hopefully not be deemed static. Linking blogs helps increase exposure as does visiting and posting at other blogs. I aim for one a day but even that can get hairy depending on the school-time of year.

I've gotten a few subscribers and a few sales from posts I've done at my blog and interviews I've done at others. (BTW, I'm always looking for family-friendly interviews to post--and it doesn't have to be just authors, either!) Recently, I added Diane Lang’s tips on wellness. That led to contact from Patricia Diesel who offered tips on organizing (which we’re in the process of working out). Someone else found my blog via a search. I was lucky enough that she liked what she saw, contacted me and ask to link blogs. Don't you know? She's an editor too! You just never know!

Almost done I promise! As a reader, a good excerpt and/or review will hook me enough to buy a book (usually digital). For a print book, chances are I've met the author and really liked his/her workshop or talk. If I like what I've read enough, chances are I'll buy another.

Finally, keep those comments at blogs short, lol! If you need to edit it—as I just did and then turned it into a post of my own, it’s too darned long! Who's got time to read a ton of paragraphs while skimming through blogs, for goodness sakes?

And yet another thing we have in common! Lack of time...I don't know how these writers who release two or three book a year do it when they have a job, young families and everything else! Puts me to shame! Joanna and I would love for you to share your stories too...