Writing prompt Wednesday

A little motivation to kickstart your muse.

I give you the beginning of a sentence and you run with it. Write the first thing that pops into your head and see how far it takes you; a paragraph, a page, an entire chapter. Who knows, it may be the beginning to your next great novel.

Whatever you come up with, just have fun with it and enjoy the free writing time. If you feel like sharing then send your writing in the comments. If you feel like keeping to yourself then that's okay, too.

Have fun and write!


Writing Prompt: The body left drag marks...

Christmas in Books

Last night I visited a local bookstore. This is a regular occurrence for me as I am a HUGE reader and lover of books, not to mention an author.

I was on a mission for a couple of Christmas themed books.

I picked up two books by a couple of my favorite authors: "A Knights Bridge Christmas" by Carla Neggers and "Christmas in Mustang Creek" by Linda Lael Miller.

I will probably have them both read by the weekend and will need others. What can I say? I love to read!

When you think of Christmas gifts for kids or teenagers or even adults, what do you think of?

Most people think of electronics or clothes, or jewelry, and everything else in between.

What about BOOKS?!

In this day of electronics, we have Kindle and Nook and even phones to read a book. Yes, you could buy someone a giftcard to Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Better yet, you could share a book you loved. Share your joy!

This year I'm giving all of my relatives a book. (Oops! I hope none of them are reading this.) I shared with each of them a copy of a book I enjoyed or an author I love to read. Some of the books are even autographed by the authors. How fun is that?!

Anyway, as I was standing in the checkout line at the bookstore I noticed this bin of books just looking for a home. It was a bin of books that needed a buyer so they could be donated to a child. How can you not give a book to a child? You are not only offering them a Christmas gift, but you're offering them a chance at literacy.

Books make great gifts, super stocking stuffers, and open a new world for a child or adult to see and experience.

Can't afford to buy another book? Got any books on a bookshelf? Then take one off the shelf and to your local coffee shop and leave an already read book behind.

Yes, you read that right. Take a book you've read, add a little note on the inside telling the reader that you left this book so someone else could enjoy it and wish them a Merry Christmas and leave the book.

I do this all the time! If you ever visit Panera in Bedford, NH then you may have spotted a book next to the fireplace at one time or another. As a matter of fact...look for more this weekend.

And as my Twelve Days of Christmas Spirit blog says, let's give ALL YEAR. Share your love of books with others, with total strangers, with someone who maybe can't afford to buy a book. Read and share!

What the contents of your vehicle says about you

What’s inside your vehicle?

I was driving to do my usual Sunday morning breakfast and writing when I glanced around my truck and decided that what’s inside a person’s vehicle must say something about them. So let’s see if that’s true.

Here’s what you’ll find in my truck and in my car:

Safety pins…lots of them. And no, they are not the kind you use on kid diapers. Uh, yeah, these come from all the race bibs I wear and then discard when I get in the truck.

Starbucks coffee cup spill stoppers; you know those green things you stick in the hole of the to go cup so coffee doesn’t spill out.

Dollars. I am a firm believer in being prepared so I always have dollar bills in my car for tolls, plus I do like to pay it forward so I usually pay for the person behind me at the dollar toll.

Music CDs, country. Although there is an Albannach CD so I like superb Celtic music. Audio books. At least two or three and sometimes up to ten in the vehicle.

A book or two. Or more. You could ascertain by these and the audiobooks that I like to read. And if you look close you will see that I like mystery, suspense, and romance. Oh, and in my car you will find copies of my latest novel. So you will know that I am also an author.
A box of Kleenex and a roll of paper towels. Don’t ask…I have no clue why, but the paper towels have definitely come in handy when I’ve spilled so I leave them.

A snow/ice scraper so I guess that means I do not live in the south or in California.

Glasses and sunglasses. Hm…if it were just the sunglasses then it would be all about the sun, but since I have both in the car it means they are prescription glasses and sunglasses.

A can of bug spray. Well, either I’m afraid bugs will get in the car or I tend to take the truck to where I spend time outdoors and don’t want bug bites.

A microfiber cloth. Similar to the paper towels only this one is cuz of the dust that gets in the truck so I use it to wipe the dash.

A pair of running shoes. Filthy dirty. This says I didn’t want to take them inside until they dried out after running the Rugged Maniac obstacle course. Last September.

A box of hand warmers. Another hint that where I live gets cold and probably snow.

A cheap, black windreaker. This pretty much goes along with the safety pins and running shoes. If there is one thing I have learned, it is to always bring a jacket to a race because you just never know what the weather will be.

Burt’s Bees lip balm, the peppermint kind. What do you think? I like kissable lips! What else does this say? I like natural.

A hairbrush. So what do you want, I’m a girl. Besides, sometimes you have to go someplace after a run and you just need to try and make the hair look better even if it’s to make it look better in a ponytail.

Ponytail holders. Along with that hairbrush there are several ponytail holders in various colors of the rainbow. When I run I wear my hair up and usually under a hat. But I love the colorful bands that hold the hair up.

Aside from the obligatory registration and insurance information, what is inside your vehicle?

An author without a publisher

What’s a girl to do?

Due to the recent death of our publisher, Linda, her partner in the publishing company has decided to shut the doors on L&L Dreamspell. Amidst all the grieving that all of us are experiencing we have to decide what to do with our manuscripts. All rights have been reverted to me, including my sixth novel (At Face Value) that had yet to be printed.

I’m extremely saddened over the death of a friend and now have to grieve over the loss of publishing company that cared for its authors. Where else could you offer the publisher a bunch of chocolate if she printed your book a month earlier than planned? Who else would call you out of the blue just because you fell off the face of the earth for a month? Lisa and Linda took such amazing care of us and our books from the words to the covers, to the moral support and guidance. Even now, Lisa is focusing on her dream team of authors and making sure they get what they need to make their decisions and move forward.

So here I am, without a publisher and I have no clue what to do. I, for one, never thought I would be here. Here I am, asking, “What do I do?”

Should I submit to other publishers? Do I look for an agent? Or do I take a gigantic leap and self-publish?

If I submit to other publishers or an agent, do I submit only the book that hasn’t been put in print yet? Do I mention the other five books that now need an avenue to get to readers? Are there any publishers or agents that you think might best fit me and my romantic-suspense genre?

If I go self-pubbed is that riskier than traditional publishing? What is all the work I would have to do myself? And do you as a reader like to read self-published?

My biggest issue is making sure that the books are available in both print and ebook format.

In the back of my mind, as difficult as this situation is, and when I get past all the tears, I think this is an impetus to push me.  It’s a sign. Here is an opportunity to take the bull by its horns and turn my writing career into what I want. The question is, “How?”

Whether you are a reader, a writer, blogger, etc., what are your thoughts?

Chat with author Denise Robbins

The Writer's Chatroom is talking with Denise Robbins Sunday evening and you don't want to miss it.

Chat with Denise Robbins

High-tech becomes high-risk in Denise Robbins' novels. The New Hampshire-based author uses two decades of experience in computers to explore the killer possibilities in technology. Denise integrates her knowledge of computers and technology along with secrets, intrigue, suspense, and even a little romance into all of her techno-romantic thriller novels.

Readers and reviewers agree Denise writes stories that will keep you at the edge of your seat and clamoring for more.

Her fifth novel is about to be released and she's already at work on her sixth.

In addition to writing, Denise enjoys scuba diving (only in warm water), snowboarding, running, and playing in her garden.

WHEN?

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Eastern USA Time.....7 PM

Not sure what time that is wherever in the world you are? http://www.worldtimeserver.com

WHERE?

The Writers Chatroom at: http://www.writerschatroom.com/Enter.htm

Scroll down to the Java box. It may take a moment to load. Type in the name you wish to be known by, and click Login. No password needed.

Meet author Susan Whitfield

Today I'm pleased to welcome author Susan Whitfield to my blog. Please take a look at Susan's books, get to know her and if you read down you'll learn how to get a free copy of her KILLER RECIPES book.

Welcome, Susan!



North Carolina Mystery Writer, Susan Whitfield, has written four books in the Logan Hunter Mystery series, including Genesis Beach, Just North of Luck, Hell Swamp, and Sin Creek. She sets her novels in the state she loves. Genesis Beach, the first in the series, is set in a fictitious place only she can locate with any accuracy. “I was first inspired to write my first novel while I was at the beach looking down at a tanned man with a pierced nipple in the hot tub,” she giggles.








Excerpt from Genesis Beach:

I’d come all this way to slap him and tell him to go straight to Hell only to find out he was already there.



“I liked my female protagonist, Logan, so much that I decided without hesitation to send her off to the Blue Ridge Mountains after a serial killer. Just North of Luck challenged us both.”


Reviews :
“Just south of sanity!”
“…grabs you by the scruff of the next and takes you on a harrowing ride into hellish, gruesome, and scary scenes. Whitfield’s skill at expectation and reversal will leave you saying OMG!”
“…unique supporting cast of Appalachian characters…”



Excerpt:

“Chase drives these mountains like he’s on flat land,” I explained to Pepper, who was pale. He took the hint and slowed his speed, soon coming to a parking area off to the left. We pulled in and locked up. A white plastic banner across the road twinkled bright lights: Go Nuts at the Testicle Festival! I spotted a television cameraman filming cooks and getting reactions from tasters. People were bestowing glorious accolades on the samples.

We approached the tables and a man shoved sturdy cardboard platters into our hands. I tried to give mine back, but Pepper pulled me toward a deep fryer filled with bubbling oil. Chase gave me a bemused look and egged Pepper on to get me to try a fried bull gonad. Unexpectedly one was on my plate, sizzling, and smelling--alluring. I shook my head. What was I thinking? I turned and watched in horror as Pepper and Chase counted to three and bit into a crispy gonad. They both leaned toward me, chewing and moaning as if it were wonderful, but they weren’t fooling me.

“Eat up, Logan. They won’t be this good once they cool off,” Pepper warned. She and Chase both took another bite. Chase winked at me and walked off toward some boiled kudzu, adding it to his plate. I followed them with my gonad still in its entirety.




Whitfield went back to her childhood home and the nearby mansion she loved to set Hell Swamp along Black River, and use The Black River Plantation for the crime scene. “There really is a Hell Swamp somewhere down Black River but I didn’t venture there because I’d been told about the canopy of water moccasins that call it home. I have since become friends with the plantation’s owner, Ed Padfield, a real sweetie. I treasure that friendship.”




Reviews:

“Hell Swamp, a lovely place for a vacation if you like finding floating skulls, cottonmouths, being pushed into the river, shot at, whacked over the head and finding stately southern plantation homes. Least I forget, the plantation home had an addition that I should probably mention here. An old lady, dressed out like a fresh killed deer, viscera piled on the floor beneath her and hung from the main chandelier in the foyer.

This is the situation that SBI agent Logan Hunter discovered when she was called off of vacation to head up an investigation in rural North Carolina.

The story spins along at an entertaining pace as you follow Logan through her investigation.

Peculiarities abound as you meet the suspects. Whitfield has drawn a cast of characters from 'down by the Black River' that rings delightfully true, scary and injected with just enough humor to make HELL SWAMP stand out from the pack. Read this book. It's a good 'un.” ~~Tom Cooke, Memoirs of Bear

Excerpt:

I could hear myself screaming. I snatched out of the fingers’ grip and fell. Fell a long way. Then the dirt hit my face. I was being buried alive! I scrambled sideways when I realized I could. The hand wrapped around my throat, the long nails on its fingers cut my skin. I screamed. There was nothing to stop me. When I hit the table, I woke up, piled on the floor with the aloe plant from the bedside table and all its dirt on top of me. The nightmare I’d once had was back and more frightening than ever. I sat up on the floor and spit out dirt, flipping the plant onto the floor. I trembled, realizing I had peed in my pants.





The fourth novel in the series, Sin Creek, is set along the Cape Fear Riverfront in Wilmington. I love Wilmington, but this novel was a major challenge. I stopped many times but finally completed it. The topics of rape and pornography give me the creeps, but it’s out there and this story had to be told,” Whitfield admits.

Here’s a tidbit to tease you:

The Cape Fear River snakes through eastern North Carolina past the stunning port city of Wilmington, and sidling up next to it is Sin Creek, a sliver of water where wickedness and decadence take precedence over decency and threaten to bring the city to its knees.

Reviews:

“…provocative page-turner!”
“…unexpected turns, engaging situations…”
“Sin Creek, new in the Logan Hunter mystery series by Susan Whitfield, is an eye-opener and a heart-breaker, but with the sweetest redeeming ending.

Having had a long-standing friendship with a detective, when reading Sin Creek, I felt a sense of déjà vu about events I know to be true. These foul crimes do exist and are proliferating all over the world, both promoted by and brought to law enforcement attention by the Internet. Whitfield portrays the underpinnings of one man's vile world of pornography with researched accuracy.

Though this story is fiction, the very same types of exploitation continue to happen and escalate. If you never understood how lewd and dangerous the world of porn is, read Sin Creek. It's fiction but true to life. It'll make you shudder.”

Excerpt:

After a short scuffle and a gunshot, Crack worked feverishly over my naked body, untying my left hand. I looked into his eyes with tears, but he diverted them to focus on the binding. Just as my hand escaped the rope, Crack jolted up, his eyes wide and shocked before he keeled over onto the floor, a knife in his back.

Whitfield’s series can be purchased anywhere books are sold as well as online in print or digital format. “If you want a book autographed, just go to my site at www.susanwhitfieldonline.com and order from there. I’ll personally autograph it for you or someone else.”




Whitfield also has a cookbook she compiled after asking writer friends to submit recipes for Killer Recipes, not only a book of writers’ favorite foods but also book titles, web sites, and other interesting tidbits. All proceeds from this cookbook are donated to cancer research.

“I feel so good about doing this because so many of us have been affected by cancer in some way. I appreciate eighty-seven authors submitting as many as five recipes for this project.” This cookbook is available on Whitfield’s web site, from the publisher at www.lldreamspell.com, as well as Amazon.com and other online stores.

“I’m proud and grateful that L&L Dreamspell jumped at the chance to publish this special book and donate their earnings to the cause.”

GIVEAWAY: Today we're giving away a copy of Killer Recipes. All you have to do is leave a question for Susan and you'll be enetered to win a free copy. The winner will be chosen at random.

Susan Whitfield is currently working on a stand-alone about the misadventures and perils of two women who’ve been friends since infancy. The working title is The Goose Parade of Old Dickeywood. She’s also working on the fifth Logan Hunter Mystery, tentatively called Punch Street, and researching a medieval ancestor in hopes of writing an historical novel.

Susan also blogs at www.susanwhitfield.blogspot.com and interviews authors and industry experts. She’s also on Facebook, Twitter, and www.booktown.com set up Susan’s Interviews for its members.

Join us Thursday and meet author Susan Whitfield

Stop by on Thursday, August 18 and meet author Susan Whitfield. Susan is the author of the Logan Hunter Mystery Series.

Her current releases are:

Genesis Beach
Just North of Luck
Hell Swamp
Sin Creek

Susan is also the author of KILLER RECIPES, a recipe book created by authors donating various recipes and all proceeds of the book go toward cancer research.

As a matter of fact, if you stop by on Thursday and leave a question for Susan you'll be entered to win a copy of KILLER RECIPES.

See you and Susan Thursday!

Funny thing happened while playing in my yard

I don't know about the weather where you are, but the weather here in New England this past Saturday was a tad wet. It rained most of the day and night.

When Sunday rolled around and the sun decided to show it's brilliant self, I immediately went outside...after doing some early morning writing.

And here is where my story begins. With me dressed in shorts and tank top, sandals, hair pulled back in some thingy that makes me look like I'm about twelve years old, and work gloves. I do make quite the picture for 'Farming USA'.

Anyway, I'm out there pulling weeds and planting plants, radio blaring my one and only Zac Brown Band CD when I look up to see my neighbor walking across the street and in my direction. Mike has been in the neighborhood for not quite two years and we speak at least once a week, share a beer between mowing our yards, and the occasional ice cream cone when the ice cream truck guy drives by and I happen to catch him. I mean who wouldn't want an ice cream on a hot summer day.

At first I asked Mike if the radio was too loud. He responded with, "Huh?" and held up his hand to his ear.

Ha ha. Very funny. Actually it was loud so I asked him If he wanted me to turn it down. "He said he liked music."

Great. So I let it keep playing.

Then Mike turns to me and asks if it is a secret.

"What is a secret?"

"That you're an author?"

Then he proceeds to tell me how his girlfriend looked me up on Facebook, found my website and that I was an author. She called Mike and told him, "You have to go check out this website."

He, being the good boyfriend did and to his amazement he was staring at my website. Apparently, it was quite the shocker. So much so that he then called his mother and told her the story of his author neighbor and while they were on the phone speaking, she ordered a copy of IT HAPPENS IN THREES for her Nook. How cool is that?!

After that Mike decided to spread the word and tell a few of his friends and work colleagues. Maybe I should hire Mike as my publicist.

A week later, Mike is in my yard giving me grief for never having mentioned it and telling me he wants to read CONNECT THE DOTS, which of course, I will give him a copy.

[SHRUG] I guess that by this time I assumed everyone knew I was a writer. Oops!

Note to self: Put a sign in yard that says, "Author lives here." Or perhaps, rather than wearing my Ireland or Boston Red Sox cap while playing in my garden I should wear a hat that says, "Have you read one of my books yet?" Hm...that would make a great T-shirt.

Thanks Mike for making my day.

Author's Night at Zorvino Vineyards !!!

A Literary Evening - Author's Night at Zorvino Vineyards !!!

FREE !!!

Join us for a very special evening on Friday, February 11th at Zorvino Vineyards as we feature as many as 50 different New England authors who will be on hand to discuss, sell & sign their novels.

Meet the writers in person !!!

This is also a fantastic charity event for the community as we will be partnering with 4 New Hampshire libraries to help bring the joy of reading to all. Each library will be offering raffles of different items including signed books by our authors plus wine & other great prizes. Check with the individual libraries to see what they have to offer and to purchase raffle tickets. Current libraries who will be involved are the Sandown Public Library, The Colby Memorial Library from Danville & the Plaistow Public Library with two more ready to join us.

This event will run from 6 pm to 9 pm and will be free to all. Zorvino Vineyards will also be offering a FREE raffle of our own. Everyone who signs up for the evening on our website will be entered into a chance to win a " Private Wine Tasting & Tour For Up To 20 People."

This event will include a cheese & cracker platter and a walk around tour & tasting of our facility. Just sign up online, print your ticket & bring it to our book signing to be entered.

We will also offer a cash bar and will have the winery open all night for complimentary wine tasting so you can browse for books, wine & gifts for that special Valentine for the following weekend.

You need not be here right at 6 pm. Come to the front door of the function facility anytime after 6 pm and stay as long as you like until 9 pm.

See you there!

An authors loves to hear

I love weeks like this!

The other day when I was at breakfast a woman who is reading NEVER TEMPT DANGER told me, "The book is getting really good. I was still reading at 2 in the morning."

HA! That's my idea of being hooked.

A couple who have read all my books (yes, both of them) introduced me to their kids as "their favorite local author."

Love the warm and fuzzy feeling that gave me.

A blogger contacted me and said she is just waiting to see my name on the list of attending authors for the Authors After Dark.

Then another reader emailed me to let me know she is loving my books (She's read NEVER TEMPT DANGER, CONNECT THE DOTS, and has KILLER BUNNY HILL) and is going to give one of them to the local library and convince them to carry the others.

I love hearing these things. I am feeling the author love.

OH! Wait! One more. A friend of mine called me from Minnesota and the first thing out of his mouth was "My family wants to know when the next book is coming out?"

Is he kidding me? NEVER TEMPT DANGER came out less than two months ago.

What do I have to say about that. Double arm pump and "Yippee! I'm one of those authors who can't write fast enough for her readers."

I have authors I love that can't write enough for me so that is an amazing feeling.

What does all this do for me? Makes me want to write and write and write some more. I've written 2500 words this week just by writing a little each morning.

For those of you that read my books and send me messages, "Thank you. You are great inspiration."

Wednesday is for booklovers

Booklovers who live in New England! If you are looking for reading material to get you through the cold weather ahead, authors Denise Robbins and Nora LeDuc have the right read for you.

Robbins and LeDuc will be discussing and signing their latest novels this Wednesday, October 6 from 5:30PM to 9:00PM at Borders Bookstore in Concord, NH.

Robbins will sign copies of her new release, Never Tempt Danger, which takes readers on a roller coaster ride of suspense, intrigue and romance in the clandestine world of government research and cutting edge technology.














LeDuc will sign copies of her latest novel, Pick Up Lines for Murder. Pick Up Lines for Murder is a tale to suit any romantic or mystery fan.

If you are in need of a good book to cozy up with in front of the fire on a New England winter night you won't want to miss this event. Mark your calendar!

Never Tempt Danger has a cover

This morning I broke my usual mode of staying away from my computer and decided to check my email. When I did, I received a wonderful surprise. The cover art for my next novel was at the top of the list. Woot!

Not only did my publisher send me the art work she designed, but she also sent me a wicked nice compliment. I hope Linda forgives me for sharing it with you all, but I can't resist so read the next line.

"PS - I wanted to tell you that I enjoyed this story the most of all your books!"

Isn't that a terrific warm and fuzzy to wake up to?!


Short blurb for NEVER TEMPT DANGER:

She never thought of her “gift” as special, more like a curse.

As the one man who accepted her “gift” slid the diamond ring onto her shaky finger, Maureen saw his death flash in her mind an instant before the bullet struck. With his blood on her hands and a government research project in the balance, Maureen (Gilly) Gillman does the only smart thing she can. She disappears. If there was one thing Maureen had learned, it was Never Tempt Danger.

Special Agent Lucas Danger knows Maureen Gillman better than any other man. Assigned to find Gilly and her military robot prototype, Lucas discovers that his past has caught up with him. When the woman he loves collides with his secretive past, Lucas has to open his mind as well as his heart to save Maureen.

Who will get to her first?

Great way to end the week!

You ever have one of those weeks where you just don’t get to do the things you want to do because the job and life takes over? That has been my week or last two weeks.

On the other hand, this has been a week of great enjoyment for me as a writer. On Monday, I posted about the guy who yelled out his truck, blocking traffic, to tell me he liked my latest book, CONNECT THE DOTS.

Monday night I came home to find a message from Heather Bishop of WZID who said, “I’m not a cute guy, but I REALLY like Connect the Dots!”

One of the guys who work for me out of New Jersey sent me an email on Wednesday sent me an email telling me that he started reading Connect the Dots and is with him so he can read during lunch. Mike claims, “It is non-stop movement and action.”

Friday morning, I decided to get some breakfast and ran into Scott who works for the postal service and is reading Connect the Dots during his lunch break. According to Scott, “I’m really enjoying it and it makes me want to turn the page.”

The piece de resistance is after a very long week, I come home and at 1 AM I see a Google alert in my email. I click the Google alert and it takes me to Intense Whisper’s blog where I see she posted a review and book giveaway of CONNECT THE DOTS. Not just a review, but a wonderfully worded and high-praise review that immediately put a smile on my face and made me send the link to my family at one in the morning.

Thank you all and especially Robin for making me feel loved as an author. It's always nice to hear someone say they like your story and want to read the others. What a compliment!

Please click the link above and show Robin/Intense Whisper some love by leaving a comment and entering her book giveaway.

Intense Whisper AKA Robin K and I met on Twitter and send quick quips back and forth. She is hysterical, and a great follow on Twitter.

Now, would you say this was a great week to be a writer or what?

Time to go celebrate the 15th Anniversary of my favorite bagel shop, Big Easy Bagels, in Manchester, NH. Hope to see you there.

Getting ready for book event - Buy a book, get a kiss

Today I have a book event with three other authors at Toadstool Bookshop in Milford, NH at 3 PM to 5 PM. This fact gave me the idea to blog about what you do to get ready for a book signing or event.

First, you have to arrange the book event. Stiffen your spine, lift up your chin, and strap on that teflon vest underneath your favorite shirt. Then walk right into whatever local business you wish to have an event at, introduce yourself as a local author, hand them a book, and get right into the spiel of how you would like them to host your event. Once they agree, you walk out of there smiling with a bounce in your step and go to the next place. Why go to another place? Because you are on a roll so you might as well since you've gotten up the nerve.

About two to three weeks before the event, publish your press release giving all the details of the event. Use online press release services (free ones), submit the press release to your local papers and the calendar section of the local papers, and of course, blog and twitter about it. If you have Facebook, post an event on Facebook and invite all your friends.

For more fun, create a theme for the event. For example, today's event has a theme called "First Kiss". With it being the day before Valentine's Day I thought that most appropriate. What exactly does this mean? Well, we (being the authors) will be reading the first kiss scene from our latest novels. This gives guests at the event the opportunity to get to know you and your writing and make them feel a part of the fun and not just handing out money for a book.

Okay, so you've arranged the event, decided on a fun theme, told the world it is going to happen, and now it's the day of the event. One would think this would be the easy part. You get up, shower, do your hair, brush your teeth. By all means, brush those teeth. Remember you are going to be meeting and hopefully chatting with a bunch of people. The last thing you want is to offend them with your stale breath. Okay, now you're presentable. What's next?

Pack your car. Do you have extra books in the trunk of your car? Even if you hold an event at a bookstore, always carry extra books in your car. Be sure to take one to give to your host if you haven't already done so.

Books packed - check. Pen, oh-my-gosh! This is a book signing/event after all with the end goal of being able to sign a book to a reader. Don't forget the pen or pens. Make sure there is plenty of ink or take an extra ink cartridge. Pen - check. Bookmarks. Do you have bookmarks? These are the best freebies to give away. Everyone needs bookmarks. You can never have enough. Plus, if someone does not buy a book they would take a bookmark. The more someone sees your name the more they may buy your book later. Bookmarks - check.

Here is something most people don't think about. Bookstand. You need a way to display your books for the guests. Remember, many people are shy or shy away from meeting someone face-to-face unless they have a reason. If the book is lying flat on the table they won't know what you have or who you are so they may not approach you. Displaying the book with your name on it gives them an idea of who you are and why you might be standing there with a silly grin on your face. Bookstand - check.

Lastly, at least I think it's last, is the kisses. No, no, not your lips kissing. Although, hmm, that could be an interesting book event. Buy a book - get a kiss. Today, that is exactly what I am doing, only there will be no lips involved. Since the theme is "First Kiss", I thought it would add a little fun to give away chocolate kisses with the books. It's these little things that make the event more memorable. Kisses - check.

Now, you're ready to go and so am I.

Hope to see some of you at Toadstool Bookshop today!

Book event day with friends and food

Nora LeDuc and I will be at Big Easy Bagel today from Noon until 2 PM signing and talking about our latest books. We hope you will stop in for a bagel and a book!

See Press Release below:

Bagels and a book event

Would you like a book with that?

Not the usual question you hear at a bagel shop, but you’re invited to enjoy a book with your bagel on Jan. 23, when highly acclaimed techno-romantic thriller author Denise Robbins and mystery-romance author Nora LeDuc stop by to sign copies of their novels at Big Easy Bagel in Manchester, N.H.

Called a master of the techno-romantic thriller field, Robbins is a software engineering manager who uses her knowledge of computers and technology to create tales of crime, romance, and suspense.

As a regular customer at the bagel shop, she looks forward to seeing familiar faces at the Bagel and Book event and hopes new readers stop by as well. “What better way to spend a cold, winter day than with a bagel and a book?” she said.

Coffee Time Romance called Robbins’ last novel Killer Bunny Hill, a “gripping suspense story,” while Café of Dreams said in its review, “Ms. Robbins blends together secrets, intrigue, suspense, and romance as easily and wonderfully as a master chef blends the ingredients for a delectable gourmet meal.

Robbins’ newest novel, Connect the Dots takes readers on a page-turning tale of suspense, intrigue and international espionage with a storyline ripped straight from today’s headlines. Torture, secret prisons, and ghost flights are just a few of the modern-day themes touched upon in Connect the Dots, which was just released on Dec. 15.

Readers are invited to stop by Big Easy Bagel, located at 2626 Brown Avenue, Manchester, N.H. on Jan. 23, from Noon to 2 p.m.

Bagels & Books event at Big Easy Bagel

Would you like a book with that?

Not the usual question you hear at a bagel shop, but you’re invited to enjoy a book with your bagel on Jan. 23, when highly acclaimed techno-romantic thriller author Denise Robbins and mystery-romance author Nora LeDuc stop by to sign copies of their novels at Big Easy Bagel in Manchester, N.H.

Called a master of the techno-romantic thriller field, Robbins is a software engineering manager who uses her knowledge of computers and technology to create tales of crime, romance, and suspense.

As a regular customer at the bagel shop, she looks forward to seeing familiar faces at the Bagel and Book event and hopes new readers stop by as well. “What better way to spend a cold, winter day than with a bagel and a book?” she said.

Coffee Time Romance called Robbins’ last novel Killer Bunny Hill, a “gripping suspense story,” while Café of Dreams said in its review, “Ms. Robbins blends together secrets, intrigue, suspense, and romance as easily and wonderfully as a master chef blends the ingredients for a delectable gourmet meal.

Robbins’ newest novel, Connect the Dots takes readers on a page-turning tale of suspense, intrigue and international espionage with a storyline ripped straight from today’s headlines. Torture, secret prisons, and ghost flights are just a few of the modern-day themes touched upon in Connect the Dots, which was just released on Dec. 15.

Readers are invited to stop by Big Easy Bagel, located at 2626 Brown Avenue, Manchester, N.H. on Jan. 23, from Noon to 2 p.m.


Nora and I hope to see you there!

CONNECT THE DOTS is here!

No matter how many books you have published (this is my third in one year) when you see it in print it is like holding your child in your arms for the first time. You spent months creating it, months waiting for it, and now the day has arrived. Your book is in print!

When I left for work yesterday morning I had to stop by the post office because mt parents said the little slip from the postal person was probably a box from them. I trotted down to the post office and waited in line to get my package with the thought of getting a Christmas present. [rub hands together in anticipation]

I get the box, tuck it into the passenger seat and then take off for work. On my way, I call my folks (on my handsfree phone) to tell them that I picked up their package. It wasn't until I was on the phone with my father that I bothered to glance at the shipping information on the box. HOLY COW! The package wasn't from my wonderful parents. It was from my publisher.

Imagine sitting in traffic with no scissors, no knife, not even your keys available to you to open the box. I wanted to jump out of my skin because I wanted to see, touch, and yes, smell my novel. What do you think I did? I painstakingly, inch-by-inch managed to shred the tape that my sadistic publisher used to secure the box. YES! I managed to get that box open and after tossing all the paper cushion into the backseat of the car,I pulled out the first copy of CONNECT THE DOTS.

I whooped and hollered, shook my book and even kissed it. Some big truck guy honked and waved. I'm a friendly person so I waved back with my book and a big grin on my face.

At work I showed my entire team so they could ooo and ahh all over it. I left it sitting on my desk while I attended a meeting and when I returned I found a note on my desk from another woman in the office saying she wanted a copy of the book. She came by and told me twice. Love that!

I returned home last night from work to find boxes of books stacked on my driveway. I barely had the car stopped before I was jumping out to go get the boxes and carry them inside. I just wanted to see them!

What's the thing you like least about being an author?

This is a question I ask many authors that I interview as part of my Book-A-Week Challenge. The answers are what I believe most writers should be aware of and prepared for.

Me - I am not fond of the marketing aspect. I love the getting out and meeting readers and other writers. I would do that every week and love it!

It's the planning, the how do I get my name out there, contacting book stores, restaurants, and other venues who will many of them turn you down. Like we didn't have enough rejection just trying to get published?

It's the amount of time spent crafting and sending out press releases, emails, or placing phone calls when I could have been writing. Especially when 99% of what I send out goes unanswered.

So why do we do this?

We put ourselves out there every day, take precious time away from writing because we love what we do and want to share it with others. We do it because if we don't tell the world of readers that we exist they will never know.

Getting into print is just the beginning. For me, getting people to read my books is the hardest task I face as an author. **Tomorrow we'll discuss ways of getting readers to read your work.**

What about you? What do you like least about being an author? Share your thoughts, experiences, thoughts here.

Book-A-Week Challenge Reading 13 1/2 by Nevada Barr

This week we are reading a psychological thriller written by Nevada Barr. I have read most if not all of Ms. Barr's Anna Pigeon mystery series and enjoy those very much so it's a real treat to read something that diverges from her series. I hope you'll joing me in reading her latest book and tell us what you think.

Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Vanguard Press (October 6, 2009)
ISBN-13: 978-1593155537

Purchase:
Amazon
B&N

Blurb:

In 1971, the state of Minnesota was rocked by the “Butcher Boy” incident, as coverage of a family brutally murdered by one of their own swept across newspapers and television screens nationwide.
Now, in present-day New Orleans, Polly Deschamps finds herself at yet another lonely crossroads in her life. No stranger to tragedy, Polly was a runaway at the age of fifteen, escaping a nightmarish Mississippi childhood.

Lonely, that is, until she encounters architect Marshall Marchand. Polly is immediately smitten. She finds him attractive, charming, and intelligent. Marshall, a lifelong bachelor, spends most of his time with his brother Danny. When Polly’s two young daughters from her previous marriage are likewise taken with Marshall, she marries him. However, as Polly begins to settle into her new life, she becomes uneasy about her husband’s increasing dark moods, fearing that Danny may be influencing Marshall in ways she cannot understand.

But what of the ominous prediction by a New Orleans tarot card reader, who proclaims that Polly will murder her husband? What, if any, is the Marchands’ connection to the infamous “Butcher Boy” multiple homicide? And could Marshall and his eccentric brother be keeping a dark secret from Polly, one that will shatter the happiness she has forever prayed for?

To find out more about Nevada Barr and her other books, please visit her website at www.nevadabarr.com

Happy Reading!

Meet my favorite hero!

Last week I posted a blog asking authors to interview their favorite hero and post their answers. The link to that blog post is here. We want to meet your hero! Check out who has posted.

Well, in my haste to set that blog post up, it kind of slipped my mind that, oh, duh! I might want to share my favorite hero too. What can I say, yes, I am a blonde.

Anyway, please meet Jake. Sometimes a secondary character, always a lover of women, and my favorite hero.

Interview of Jake:
1. What is the name of the book where we would meet you? What genre is it?

“You first meet me in It Happens in Threes, a romantic-suspense, Denise has coined techno-romantic thriller. Of course, Denise loves me so much, she had to include me in her second novel, Killer Bunny Hill.

As a matter of fact, she was halfway through the writing of Killer Bunny Hill when she started putting my name in place of the hero’s. HA!” [He slapped his well-worn cowboy hat against a jean-clad thigh.]

"My story, where you really get to know me is Connect the Dots."

2. Who wrote the book?

“That would be Denise Robbins.”

3. What do you think of the author? You can tell us the truth.

“Denise is this short, funny blonde, spitfire of a woman that likes my southern drawl and my ass in a pair of jeans. What do you think? [Jake spun on booted heel and flashed his butt and a wicked grin.]

“On the other hand, she did take three novels to get me and mine out there for the world to see. Sheesh! Did she really need to take so long?”

4. Tell us a little about yourself. How would you describe your appearance? More than cute or drop dead gorgeous, give us enough detail to get a clear idea of how you look.

“Well, I can tell you when Shugar, oh, sorry. When Ruby, my boss’s fiancée from It Happens in Threes meets me, she refers to me as a Neanderthal.” [Jake leaned back and rubbed his hand over his chin.]

“As a matter of fact, so does Samantha in Killer Bunny Hill. I’m a rather tall guy and my size does tend to intimidate. . .at first.” [A sly grin spread across his face making Jake’s green eyes twinkle.]

“But then, I have a way with the ladies. I flash my mist green eyes at them, give a wink, and lay on my southern drawl and snap.” [Jake snapped his fingers.]

“The women become my ally and I’m theirs.” [Jake sat down in a chair, stretched out his long legs in front of him, and crossed his lean, muscular arms over the chest that fit his polo shirt.]

5. What character are you in the book? Are you the hero, the best friend, the sidekick, or someone else?

“That depends on the book, Darlin’. In the first two books I get to play keeper of the women or bodyguard, whichever term you prefer. It’s a tough job but somebody has to do it.” [He winked then set his hat on his knee.]

“In Connect the Dots, I am the finally the hero. [Jake drew out the word finally long and breathy.]

6. Is there a specific reason why you are in the story? Don't give us any story spoilers, but share some teasers if you want.

“Well, yeah, I have to save the ladies. You know the whole damsel in distress thing.” [At this statement, Jake chuckled making the ripples in his stomach muscles tighten and pop underneath his shirt.]

“Just kidding on the damsel in distress. Actually, I’m a trained special agent, who catches the bad guys. I’m kind of the ‘go to’ guy for my boss, Mickey.

“In It Happens in Threes and Killer Bunny Hill, I am called in to keep an eye on the little ladies, who, by the way, can take care of themselves. But I’m there to protect and end up getting involved to the end.”

[Jake leaned back and raked long fingers through chestnut-colored hair.] “In Connect the Dots, I return home from an overseas trip. Hate those. When I get home I find myself with a new neighbor, a very gorgeous, if not citified woman. That’s okay, I won’t hold it against her.”

7. What time period do you live in?

“Oh, Hon, I’m in the here and now.”

8. Where are you from?

“Well, that’s difficult to say. I’ve been everywhere, seen many things, and where I live now is who I am.”

9. Do you live in the same place now?

“Now, I own a nice, old farmhouse in the boonies of New Hampshire. It’s quiet and beautiful, and just what an active field agent needs when he returns from places that would make your skin crawl. I can sit on my farmer’s porch in the chairs that I made myself, drink a beer, and enjoy the sunset.” [A wistful look slid across Jake’s face as he described his place.]

10. Tell us about your hometown and your current home.

“I bought this huge plot of land from my old neighbor with this old rundown house on it. My friends Mickey and Ruby thought I was nuts, but I like doing the work on it by myself.” [He held his large hands out in front of him and flipped them back and forth.]

“I get the greatest sense of accomplishment when I do the work with my own hands. Every time I step on my front porch, I know I built them.”

11. Tell us how your hometown or your current home affects you, the things you do and how you feel about life?

“I live in one of those small towns where everybody knows everyone. You can’t fart without everyone else knowin’ what it smells like.” [He chuckled behind his hand.]

“Sorry, that was a little too descriptive. Basically, we’re an old-fashioned community of people, each with our own talents and skills, who will help each other out in a heartbeat. I love it there.”

12. What is your job? Do you like it?

[Jake leaned in and pressed a finger to his lips.] “Shh. I work for a secret government agency.” [He sat back grinning.]

“Do I like it? Heck, yeah! Why do a job if you don’t love it? Life is too short, Darlin’, to spend more hours in a place you hate, doing a job you despise than at home loving the woman of your dreams or your family. But make sure you cherish that time with your woman and your family every chance you get.”

13. How does your job affect your love life?

[Jake scratched the top of his head and his eyes glanced away.] “That’s a good question. At first, I did not get involved with women. Yeah, I like to flirt.” [He shrugged his wide shoulders and let them drop.]

“But getting involved with someone can be dangerous for them, even deadly. I don’t want to be the cause of a woman losing her life.”

[A gleam shimmered in his gaze.] “Then I met Charley.”

14. What special skills or abilities do you have?

“Besides the sweet talkin’, I am a dog with a bone. I know many languages, some computer skills of which I am getting better and better, how to investigate and research, solve puzzles, infiltrate known organizations, kick ass, and when necessary as it is in most occasions, be diplomatic and stealth.”

15. How do those affect your part in the story?

“Sweetheart, they are the story. I can put 2 and 2 together and when I come up with 5, I know something is wrong. I read body language better than my girlfriend.” [He slapped a hand over his mouth then removed it.]

“Don’t tell Charley I said that. She’ll kick my ass.”

16. Are you happy with the story?

“I think the story surprised me as much as it did Denise. It was so realistic it pretty much scared the bejeezes out of me a couple of times. And when Charley –”

[Jake clamped his lips shut.] “Don’t want to give anything away, but suffice it to say the title Connect the Dots fits well.”

17. Do you have some ideas that the author should consider about the story? You can share them with us. We're all friends here.

“Yup. I think Denise should go ahead and name places. Who cares if the CIA throws a little hissy fit because she, along with a little help from me and Charley, figured out where things are at.”

18. Tell us about your past. Can you share one good experience and/or one bad experience? I know that bad experience can be tough, but it would tell us more about what you have been through.

“Pasts are for the past. Leave it there and it can never haunt you or anyone else around you.”

19. Who is the most important person in your life? Tell us about him/her.

“Most important person in my life is my woman, Charley. She is this citified, pansy-ass, who underneath all those fine clothes is the toughest, smartest, and most feminine woman I have ever met. I’m the luckiest guy there is.”

20. Is that person in the story we are talking about?

“Charley is my new neighbor in Connect the Dots. She starts out as an intriguing pain in my backside, not to mention a liar, but after awhile she grows on me. Yeehaw! The woman knows how to bake cookies and take a man down.”

21. What do you see in your future?

“A lot of Charley and more traveling as a couple.”

22. Do you think your author is going to write another story about you? Or, are you part of a series?

“Well, all her stories so far have been standalone even though I do show up here and there. Do I think Denise will write another story about me?” [A slow, crooked grin tipped the corner of his lips upward.]

“She darn well better, but I know she has to finish that ‘pink undie’ story first and then do that sequel to It Happens in Threes for Mickey and Ruby. Too many people been asking about that. Of course, that means I will probably show up, even if it is to help my good buddy and boss’s fiancée out.”

[WINK WINK] “Watch out, Mickey. Just kidding. Mickey’s kinda the jealous type.”

23. Do you like being a character in a book? Why?

“Absolutely. It’s fun, creative, and I can wreak havoc on Denise’s plans whenever I want just by whispering in her ear.” [Jake chuckled.]

“The woman is like putty in my hands.” [He cupped his hands together then wrapped them over each other.]

24. If someone ever decides to make a movie based on your story, who should play you in the movie and why?

“I’m kind of one of a kind, don’t ya think? But, if I had to choose someone to play me. . . Hmm.” [He sat back, crossed his legs, causing his thigh to bunch up and tighten beneath faded jeans. A few seconds later, he threw his arms open wide and dropped them to his side.]

“I got nothing, nobody. How about you tell me?”


Well, I hope you enjoyed meeting Jake as much as I have enjoyed making him come to life.

If you haven't shared your favorite hero, feel free to do so now.