This Thursday, I’m pleased to bring you Vonda Sinclair, a Scottish historical romance author who really knows how to bring those Highland Heroes to life. We’ll take a peek into what inspires Vonda, and her romance, My Fierce Highlander.

Let’s take a peek at My Fierce Highlander first, because the cover is gorgeous and the hero is even more magnificent.



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Gwyneth Carswell, an English lady banished by her father to the harsh Scottish Highlands, wants nothing more than to take her young son away from the violence of two fighting clans--her own distant kin, the MacIrwins, and their enemies, the MacGraths. She risks everything to rescue the fierce MacGrath warrior from the battlefield where he’s left for dead by her clan. She only knows she is inexplicably drawn to him and he wants peace as she does. When her clan learns of her betrayal, they seek vengeance. Dare she trust the enemy more than her own family?

Laird Alasdair MacGrath is driven to end two-hundred years of feuding with the MacIrwins. But by taking in and protecting Lady Gwyneth and her son, he provokes more attacks from his mortal enemy. As the danger and conflict surrounding them escalate, Alasdair and Gwyneth discover an explosive passion neither of them expected. With the arrival of a powerful man from her past, a horrible decision confronts her--give up her son or the man she loves.




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Mmm. Battles, highlands, and romance – what more could you ask for?

So tell us, Vonda, when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, etc.


VS: As a child, I had imaginary stories in my head all the time. I didn't write any of them down until I was about eleven years old. I wrote two or three short stories that were kinda spooky and suspenseful. (My dad always told me lots of ghost stories.) Then I didn't write any more stories until after college. At that point I started reading romance more and I thought, why not create my own story, and my own hot hero, fantasy material? LOL Great heroes are generally my favorite part of romance novels. I started writing in contemporary because the research necessary for historical intimidated me at the time. But once I tackled the research, I found I enjoyed it. There are always plenty of hurdles on the trail to getting published. Like most authors, I experienced several rejections. But I kept learning and believing in myself. I didn't give up.

That seems to be the theme this month – don’t give up, persevere. It’s the only true formula for success.

Obviously you write Scottish historical romance. Is that your favorite genre to read?


VS: Yes, absolutely. I love, love, LOVE reading Scottish historical romance. There's something about the setting which is magical and Scottish characters are always close to my heart.

So My Fierce Highlander is exceptionally enticing. (And I’ll say it again… what an amazing cover.) What other books do you have available to satisfy our need for sexy kilts and the majestic highlands of Scotland?

VS: My Fierce Highlander is my only published book so far. Next will be My Wild Highlander. It is about Alasdair's brother Lachlan. (Alasdair being the hero of My Fierce Highlander.) Lachlan is a rake and a rogue known affectionately as Seducer of the Highlands. He loves all women, so how can he settle with only one? But the king decrees he marry Lady Angelique, a thorny half-French lass who would rather stab Lachlan than kiss him.

Hee hee. Oh I love it! I can’t wait for it to come out. It’s been a while since I’ve read a feisty heroine, and she sounds like she’s right up my alley.

Back to My Fierce Highlander. How did the idea spur, did you have to do much research, any interesting tidbits that we should know?


VS: The idea must have come to me in a dream, or in my sleep. When I woke up one morning, the idea was playing out in my head. I saw the first few scenes of the book, the heroine (a healer) rescuing the injured and unconscious hero from a Highland battlefield, actually the site of an ambush. He's from the enemy clan. The multitude of possible conflicts lit my imagination on fire. What kind of repercussions would her actions have? Would the heroine's own clan turn out to be worse than the enemy (hero's) clan? When writing historical, every tiny detail has to be researched: clothing, food, homes, customs, settings, weather, and many other things. I love doing hands-on research in Scotland. There's nothing like experiencing the weather or a castle or a moor, first hand.

I so envy your first-hand research. One of these days I hope to visit the castles and moors myself. Color me officially jealous!

Tell us about Alasdair. What’s one thing about him that we wouldn’t necessarily learn in the book? A secret dream, an embarrassing habit, an episode from childhood.

VS: That's a tough question because I generally expose every corner of the point of view character's psyche, especially if it's a hero or heroine. But Alasdair does hide things from the clan and Gwyneth. He's a strong but compassionate leader, very down-to-earth, level-headed and realistic. In battle, he's fierce. But what a lot of people don't know about him is he can become playful and wicked in the bedchamber. Although he feels he's out of practice in the seduction department, he does a stellar job when he decides Gwyneth is the only woman for him.

Ooh. Yes, as I said… magnificent. (Trust me, girls!) Can I trade pla—Oh, sorry! Getting carried away there. Ahem.

What kind of pet would best suit his personality?


VS: I think a Deerhound or Wolfhound would be his pet of choice.

All heroes are unforgettable in one way or another. What’s one thing about Alasdair that makes your heart go pitter-pat?

VS: Aside from him being a strong, confident and hot alpha chief, he is also very attentive to Gwyneth. What he likely doesn't want anyone to know is he would move heaven and earth in order to give her what she wants. His intense and unwavering devotion to her made me fall in love with him. I love it when a strong man stakes his claim.

Since you mention her, let’s talk about Gwyneth. Everybody has flaws. Sometimes they are endearing, other times they are annoying. What is Gwyneth’s greatest fault?

VS: She believes her greatest fault is how she's drawn into sensual pleasures. Actually this has only happened to her twice, and the first time nearly destroyed her life. And despite knowing she shouldn't give in to physical desires with the hero, Alasdair, he is almost impossible to resist. But I see her greatest fault and her greatest strength to be her stubbornness. It is a strength in that she is a survivor who adapts to whatever the situation demands. It is a flaw in that she thinks she wants a certain thing, but once she has that, she isn't so sure anymore. She was too stubborn to see the truth.

Without giving away details that might spoil the story for those who have not read it yet (Go buy it!), could you tell us the one strength Gwyneth provides to Alasdair?

VS: Alasdair has been a widower for two years as the story opens. He loved his wife and remained faithful to her even two years after her death. But when he meets Gwyneth, he realizes he was not truly living during those two years of grief. Gwyneth brings his life into sharp, colorful focus. She brings him happiness and a reason to smile.

If Gwyneth was your daughter – what advice would you give her upon meeting your hero?

VS: Hang onto him, girl, and don't let go! :)

Okay, Vonda, now that we have some background, and we know these to manage to overcome some significant hurdles, if we peek in on Alasdair and Gwyneth’s lives ten years from now, can you give us a glimpse of what we’d see?

VS: They will still be happily married, living in the same place, with a few children in tow. :)

With all that to entice us, let’s take a peek at these two in action:





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EXCERPT:
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“Let’s hide him in the cattle byre. ’Twill be safer should Donald come by,” Gwyneth said.

Mora narrowed her eyes. “You’re being mighty canny of a sudden.”

“Well, I know if he finds us hiding his enemy, he’ll likely fly into a violent rage.”

“Aye, and kill us all,” Mora grumbled.

Gwyneth shoved the dread away and ignored her friend’s pessimistic view. “We shall hide him well.”

They dragged the MacGrath into the stone byre, which stood several yards from the cottage, and rolled him onto a wool blanket on the hard-packed dirt floor.

After a trip to the cottage, Mora lit several fir roots in order to find his wounds.

“A bonny lad, he is,” Mora proclaimed.

Lad, indeed. Rory was a lad. This giant was a man full grown. But bonny, yes. In the soft flame-light, his midnight hair, his equally dark brows and thick lashes captured Gwyneth’s attention.

Open your eyes.

They would be dark too, would they not? Dark as tempting, dangerous sin in the blackest night. Beard stubble shadowed his authoritative jaw and framed his sensual mouth.

I am going daft, noticing such things at a time like this.

Forcing herself to ignore his face, she unfastened the brass brooch shaped like a falcon that held the upper part of his blue plaid in place over his shoulder, removed the brown leather pouch-like sporran from his waist and dropped the brooch inside.

“Do you not think he’s the laird?” Gwyneth raised his strong hand to show Mora the seal ring, the heat of him seeping beyond her skin.

“Aye, I’d wager he is the young laird. I’ve never laid eyes on the man afore now. Though I recollect hearing of the old laird’s passing sometime back, and he does favor him. ’Course all the MacGraths have a certain dark look about them.”

Gwyneth tugged the ring from his finger and placed it in the sporran.

“His clothes are of fine material.” Mora pushed the doublet open. “And would you look at this.” She pulled a gleaming brass-hilted dagger from inside the garment, near his armpit.

She used the sharp weapon to cut his bloody clothing away from his upper body.

Holding her breath, Gwyneth could but gape as each inch of skin and sculpted muscle was revealed. Among the multitude of scars on his chest, two long shallow sword cuts oozed blood. A lead ball from a pistol had grazed his shoulder, leaving a furrow of torn flesh.

She would stitch him up so he would heal, good as new.

A slice in his plaid alerted them to another wound. Mora unhooked his leather belt and eased his kilt down to reveal a cut to the right side of his lean waist close to his pelvic bone.

Wanton excitement stirred within Gwyneth at the sight of this enemy Scot’s near-naked body. I should close my eyes, look away. He is a patient. Heat seared her from the inside out.

Though she’d attended to many an unclothed man after a skirmish or during sickness, she had never seen a man so beautifully formed. God had certainly smiled upon him.

“’Tis shallow,” Mora said. “He’s lucky they didn’t strike his vitals.”

They cleaned his wounds with a wash of royal fern steeped in clean water, stitched up the deeper cuts, then smeared them with a paste of fern and comfrey.

“My, but a fine-looking man he is, aye?” Mora smiled and winked. “Reminds me of my own big Geordie afore he passed on.”

Indeed, fine-looking was too mild a term, in Gwyneth’s estimation but she ignored the question. She would not have Mora know of the embarrassing effect the man was having on her.

Most men of her acquaintance were the same—arrogant, cruel, and harsh. Whether fancy English gentlemen or braw Scottish warriors, they only thought of their own superiority and how they might wield power over others. Women were naught but chattel and thralls. By helping to save this one’s life, she was gambling, hoping to win peace.

“Och, here’s what ails him most.” Mora examined the Scot’s head. “He’s bashed his skull and good.”

“Let me see.” Gwyneth knelt on the dirt floor above him. His hair was sticky with blood, and a knot swelled on the back of his head. “It seems to have stopped bleeding.”

“Aye. Not much to be done for it, anyway.”

Nevertheless, Gwyneth cleaned the wound and applied the herbal paste as best she could in his thick hair. She concentrated on her task more intently while Mora covered him with a blanket and worked his plaid out from under him. Gwyneth tried not to think about his nakedness beneath it. Surely it was a sin to hold such thoughts.

“We’ve done all we can for him. He’s in God’s hands now. ’Tis off to bed, I am.”

Carrying his belongings, Gwyneth walked with Mora back to the cottage and hid his things in a rough wooden chest. She approached the bed where Rory lay. Relieved he’d slept through the commotion, she kissed his forehead and straightened. “I’ll go back out and sit with the MacGrath man for a short while.”

“Suit yourself. Best take your sgian dubh with you, just in case he wakes up none too happy about where he’s at.”

Gwyneth nodded and touched the dirk hidden in her bodice to be sure it was still there. She hoped she wouldn’t have to defend herself against a man she was trying to help. But, the truth was, she didn’t know him or what he might do.

Above the dark rounded peaks of the mountains, a quarter moon peeped through the clouds, providing the faintest of light for her to navigate the path to the byre. A whitish-gray mist crawled up from the glen, reminding her of the souls of the recently departed and giving her a chill. She inhaled the scent of rain before entering the tiny building and closing the door.

The handsome stranger lying insensible on the floor drew her gaze. The old plaid blanket did little to conceal his fine form, large and well-trained for battle, hard and heavy with muscle. She hoped she wouldn’t regret helping him. If he carried a peace treaty, surely he was a good man. A better man than Donald MacIrwin, at least.

Now, if only this MacGrath would awaken and return to his own lands, she would rest much easier. If he could somehow bring peace, she would be doubly grateful. But she feared there would be no peace as long as Donald MacIrwin drew breath.

Through the door, the haunting, fluted call of a curlew reached her. Gwyneth shivered. Mora had told her more than once that a curlew heard at night was a bad omen.

My Fierce Highlander copyright 2011 Vonda Sinclair


Before you go, Vonda, I’d like to know what’s been the greatest contributing factor to achieving the goals you’ve accomplished?

VS: Determination and perseverance. Writing a novel may be difficult but sometimes that is the easiest part. A writer has to be self-motivated. They have to push through the hard times and make it happen.

Writing has changed my life in a lot of ways. How has it changed yours?

VS: Writing gave me purpose and direction. Before I started writing I floundered with no idea what I really wanted to do as far as a career. Once I found writing, even though it's been a rough road, it is the only thing I want to do.

Many writers describe themselves as "character" or "plot" writers. Which are you?

VS: I'm a character writer. I love discovering characters and learning everything about them and their pasts. I love character interaction, behavior and creating conflict between characters. When a character comes to life in my head, and on the page, it feels magical.

What would you like to say to writers who are reading this interview and wondering if they can keep creating, if they are good enough, if their voices and visions matter enough to share?

VS: If you have a strong need to write, then go for it. Keep learning. Realize you probably can't see your own writing flaws. Turn weaknesses into strengths. Go after what you want with determination. It is up to you and you have to make it happen.

Very wise words. I concur whole-heartedly!

Okay – tell us where we can find you:

VS: Website: http://www.blogger.com/www.VondaSinclair.com
Blog: Fierceromance

Thanks for stopping by, Vonda! I hope you’ll drop back in when Lachlan is ready to let us into his life!

~Claire
http://www.claireashgrove.com/



~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Hi everyone! Today we have another guest, Catherine Bybee, who's known for her exceptional paranormal stories. She also has a naughty side, and is published in erotica as well. In the last several months I've gotten to know Catherine a little better, and I think you'll enjoy meeting her.

Today we're going to be talking about Soul Mate.

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Kari Pearce lives the life of a lone werewolf. No one knows of her affliction, not even her sister. When she hears of a missing child up in the Sequoias, Kari goes on the hunt to find the child and her abductor before tragedy can occur. Saving the child is easy, avoiding the FBI agent associated with the case is not.

Agent Nick Murdock knows he's seen Kari before, but damn if he can remember where. There's one thing he knows for sure. Kari Pearce, with her blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, is hiding something. And Nick is going to find out what.



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So, Catherine, briefly take us on the journey with you – when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, etc.

CB: I started writing seriously about three years ago. My first completed manuscript is under my bed, the second was Binding Vows, a time travel romance that has gone on to be a bestseller and a catalyst to my trilogy. Like all writers, I’ve had my share of rejections, still get them from time to time, but I keep writing and subbing. A published author is a persistent author.

Absolutely. I just blogged about that somewhat -- an author doesn't typically luck into anything. That person has worked hard without giving up.

You obviously write paranormal and erotic romance. Is that your favorite genre to read? Do you write in any other genres, or under any other pen names you’d like to share?


CB: I only write under Catherine Bybee. My website is set up so that my readers know exactly what they are picking up. My first love is time travel romance but when writing my trilogy I found myself writing a contemporary book along with a historical. Which is what TTR is when you think about it. And because my TTR have witches and druids running amok, taking a leap and writing about werewolves came easy.

I’m also writing a series of contemporary books that Harlequin has shown some interest in. So I hope to soon be spreading news on that front.
Oooh! Hear that folks? Pay attention to her website (Catherinebybee.com) for news! Fingers and toes crossed for you, Catherine.

Of the books you have published, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?


CB: Oh, boy, that’s like asking which child I like best. I love them all for different reasons. I can’t choose one.

What are your published titles and please tell us about anything coming down the pipe next?

CB: My Time Travel Trilogy starts with Binding Vows then Silent Vows and then Redeeming Vows – But because this is such a popular series, I’m nearly finished with the first draft of a forth book for this line. I’m hoping to have Highland Shifter out in 2012.

My Werewolf Books: Soul Mate, which is the latest release – Before the Moon Rises and Embracing the Wolf are about brothers.

Possessive is a short ghost story.
And my two erotic novellas, Kilt Worthy and Kilt-A-Licious.

You gotta love those Highlanders - yum! But we're talking about those super-sexy warewolves today, so lets jump in and give everyone a peek at Soul Mate.


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EXCERPT:
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As she walked away, his eyes followed the gentle sway of her hips. Damn, she was something to watch.

Once she was out of sight, he turned in his seat and brought the coffee cup to his lips. As he swallowed, his eyes landed on the car keys sitting next to Kari’s empty plate.

With a wicked smile, he covered them with his hand and headed toward the door.

Outside he watched her fumbling through her purse while standing in front of a four-wheel-drive rental. A strand of blonde hair slid over her face; she tossed it back in frustration and mumbled a curse.

“Looking for these?” He held up the keys and shook them with a jingle.

Her head shot up, eyes narrowed.

“You left them on the counter,” he found himself explaining.

Taking a step in his direction, she reached out to capture them from his fingers. Nick playfully pulled them out of reach. She cocked her head to the side and dropped her hand.

“Have dinner with me,” he spoke before she could say anything.

“What?” She looked at him as if he was crazy.

“You know, dinner. Kind of like breakfast, only later and with wine.”

“Are you always so forward, Mr. Murdock?”

“Nick.”

“Are you always so forward, Nick?” she emphasized his name to express her annoyance.

“I believe in being direct.”


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You've just read an excerpt from Soul Mate, by Catherine Bybee
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With that enticing peek at Nick and Kari, could you tell us about your plot development? How did the idea spur, did you have to do much research, any interesting tidbits that we should know?

CB: Soul Mate was the brain-child of mine when I was camping in the Sequoia’s a couple of summers ago. The moon was full and my mind was clicking away with story ideas. The first scene played in my head and the rest of the book followed.

I love it when ideas jump up and grab you. Personally, I think those are some of the best books written. They just don't let an author go.

Speaking of not letting go -- give us some more details about Nick. What’s one thing about Nick that we wouldn’t necessarily learn in the book? A secret dream, an embarrassing habit, an episode from childhood.


CB: Uhm, I’m not sure Nick has anything going on that the reader won’t see by the end of the story.

All heroes are unforgettable in one way or another. What’s one thing about Nick that makes your heart go pitter-pat?

CB: His determination to get what he wants is very sexy to me. Nothing wishy-washy about his approach or appeal.

I love a determined man as well, honestly. If Nick doesn’t have a pet in your novel, what kind of pet would best suit his personality?

CB: A police dog… but I don’t think our heroine, a werewolf, would like that. LOL

Laugh! No, I bet she wouldn't. That could be really interesting. (You write erotica yes? Sorry, just kidding!)

On that note, spill secrets about Kari. What is Kari's greatest fault?

CB: Her eye twitches when she lies. Which sucks for her but clues in everyone else.

Poor girl. I mean, we're all entitled to our secrets right?

Without giving away details that might spoil the story for those who have not read it, could you tell us the one strength Kari provides to Nick?


CB: Her backbone is made of steel. It takes Nick to show her that she can lean on him.

If Kari was your daughter – what advice would you give her upon meeting Nick?

CB: Watch out, this one is going to count.

I always love the answers there. I think that one response gives me more insight to the story (and teases me far more) than all the rest combined. That sounds positivitly delicious.

If we peek in on Nick and Kari's lives ten years from now, can you give us a glimpse of what we’d see?


CB: Kari telling Nick, “Well would you look at that, our baby girl’s slumber party falls on the full moon, looks like you get to stay up all night and listen to them cackle while I turn all furry.”

Laugh! That's classic.

Let's talk just a little bit more about yourself before we call it a wrap.

As a writer, Catherine, what is your greatest strength?


CB: I think I have a gift of dialogue. I’m able to paint a scene through a conversation and draw the reader in that way.

I think you do that well in the scene above. So yes, I'd have to agree.

Many authors describe themselves as "character" or "plot" writers. Which are you?

CB: This depends on the book. My time travels are plot, plot, plot… yeah, the characters take hold of the story, but the plot has to be mapped out or things go funky.

My shorter pieces I’m able to spend more time with my characters. Contemporary books naturally fall into ‘character’ writing. My paranormals are about a ‘plot’.

Given that you write in separate genres, do you find it challenging to shift? Or is it a natural process?

CB: Natural and refreshing. Which is why I write different genres. I don’t think I’d like only writing one.

I'm very much that way. It's a breath of fresh air to escape into a different world (literally), even though I love the one I just left. So I can completely understand your answer.


All right, everyone, Catherine's given us a generous portion of her time. Let's let her get back to creating the stories we love. But before you go, Catherine, can you tell us where to find you on the web?

CB: Website: http://www.catherinebybee.com/
Blog: Catherine Bybee

Thanks for being with us, Catherine! Hope you'll come by again soon!

~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com


~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Hi everyone, please welcome Beth Trissel, one of the lovely ladies I'm proud to be associated with at The Wild Rose Press. Her books are amazing, and so is she, and I'm excited to have her on the blog today!

Beth has a new release out, Into the Lion's Heart, and she's going to tell us a little bit about herself, and this engaging new story.


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As the French Revolution rages, the English nobility offer sanctuary to many a refugee. Captain Dalton Evans arrives in Dover to meet a distant cousin, expecting to see a spoiled aristocrat. Instead, he's conquered by the simplicity of his new charge. And his best friend Thomas Archer isn't immune to her artless charm, either.

Cecile Beaumont didn't choose to travel across the Channel. And she certainly didn't expect that impersonating her own mistress would introduce her to a most mesmerizing man. Now she must play out the masquerade, or risk life, freedom – and her heart.




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Beth, thanks for being here. Let's talk a little about you, the author, before we get into your amazing new story. Briefly take us on the journey with you – when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, all the good stuff.

BT: When it began is difficult to say. I’ve been writing since I was a young girl, initially childish diaries then poetry and journals that grew into a collection of essays. An editor from Southern Living Magazine was highly encouraging to me early on after my mother (unbeknownst to me) submitted one of my pieces for their free-lance column. Only later did I come to understand how rare it was to speak on the phone with an editor at her request. I took up writing historical romance with near rabid determination when I turned 40. Yes, life begins at 40. But I wasn’t published until my early 50’s, and received oodles of rejections from agents and editors along the way. I just never quit.

I think that is probably something that can't be emphasized enough -- never quit. You have a very unique genre, a blend of both historical and paranormal. And of course, romance all the way. Do you write in any other genres, or under any other pen names you’d like to share?

BT: I like historical romance very much and some paranormal, also historical fiction. I am more likely to be found reading nonfiction for research, and if well done, because I enjoy it. I also write nonfiction about country life and have self-published that work though under my name.

I have to laugh, because when I'm asked what my favorite thing to read is, my standard answer is "Non-fiction." I can so relate to that!

You have more than just the amazing (and yes, I'm repeating that deliberately) Into the Lion's Heart available. What are your published titles and please tell us about anything coming down the pipe next:




BT: Somewhere My Love (Light paranormal/time travel)
Somewhere my Lass (light paranormal/time travel)
Daughter of the Wind (light paranormal/historical)
Enemy of the King (colonial American historical romance)
Through the Fire (Native American historical romance)
Red Bird’s Song (Native American historical romance)
A Warrior for Christmas, historical romance short in An American Rose Christmas anthology

And just out, Into the Lion’s Heart, an English historical romance short that kicks off TWRP’s new line called Love Letters in which a letter must be the cause of bringing the hero and heroine together.

The next story in my ‘Somewhere’ series, Somewhere the Bells Ring, a vintage American /ghost story romance will come out later this year.

Shew! That's quite impressive, Beth. Do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?

BT: My favorite is the first novel I ever wrote and the last one published thus far, Native American historical romance novel Red Bird’s Song, inspired by events that occurred to my Scots-Irish ancestors in the colonial frontier, and one warrior in particular, Wicomechee, to whom I have family ties. He’s the hero of the novel.

I envy your ability to pull reality into a story -- that's a place I've always been afraid to go. However, my family history isn't nearly as interesting as yours.

So now that we know a little more about you, let's talk about Into the Lion's Heart!



Tell us about your plot development? How did the idea spur, did you have to do much research, any interesting tidbits that we should know?



BT: Research is the word for Into the Lion’s Heart, set in Georgian England during the explosion of the French Revolution. Tons of it lay behind this venture into new waters for me. I’d already begun the story inspired by a strong secondary character in my colonial American romance novel Enemy of the King, by following him back to England, when senior historical editor Nic D’Arienzo asked me to submit a short for Love Letters, so I adapted it. I’ve always been fascinated with The Scarlet Pimpernel and the French Revolution but wanted to begin earlier than the Reign of Terror, giving me some room for a sequel, plus a lot is happening in 1789, including waves of French nobles fleeing the country while they could still get out.



I'm going to say it again -- it's amazing, everyone!

Let’s talk heroes –

What’s one thing about your hero that we wouldn’t necessarily learn in the book? A secret dream, an embarrassing habit, an episode from childhood.


BT: Captain Dalton Evans is based on Captain Vaughan, the ‘bad boy’ redeemed by the end of the novel in Enemy of the King. At least, mostly redeemed. He’s the only blond hero I’ve featured thus far, as I tend to prefer dark haired men. But I loved writing him.

All heroes are unforgettable in one way or another. What’s one thing about your hero that makes your heart go pitter-pat?

BT: Dalton’s wry wit coupled with a forceful personality.

If your hero doesn’t have a pet in your novel, what kind of pet would best suit his personality?

BT: He loves horses.

Mmm. After my own heart. Almost makes me hesitate to go into the heroine -- can I keep him?

Okay, so, his heart belongs to someone else. Tell us about her. Without giving away details that might spoil the story for those who have not read it, could you tell us the one strength your heroine provides to your hero?


BT: She softens him. Humbles him too. He’s a little arrogant.

If your heroine was your daughter – what advice would you give her upon meeting your hero?

BT: Don’t let his gruff exterior intimidate you.

Very nice. Gruff exteriors sometimes have the softest interiors.

If we peek in on your hero and heroine’s lives ten years from now, can you give us a glimpse of what we’d see?


BT: A happy couple gathered before the fireside with their three darling children and his doting aunt. Of course, Captain Evans will have to go off and fight Napoleon in the interim, but will return safely after distinguishing himself in battle.



All right, I can't wait any longer -- let's let everyone peek at Into the Lion's Heart!



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EXCERPT
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Choking on the brine, she thrashed to right herself. Dalton spat saltwater from his mouth and fought to regain his seat while pulling her up with him. Not his most dignified effort. She was the devil to get hold of—kept slipping away. He grabbed her again, only to be knocked back down and rolled with her in the swill on the bottom of the boat.

Damn and blast! Tom and another man hoisted them upright in the prow.

“Thanks,” Dalton grunted, biting his tongue in the presence of a lady. “All right?” he shouted at her, and shifted her securely onto the seat beside him.

“Oui!” she sputtered when she’d recovered her breath.

She shook all over—must be chilled to the bone. They’d be fortunate if she didn’t catch her death, probably bruised too from tossing about in the skiff. The sooner she was safely housed indoors by a toasty hearth, the better.

Keeping an arm around the sodden woman, he peered into a striking pair of charcoal-gray eyes set above a pert nose and framed by fine dark brows.

She parted trembling, bluish lips. “Merci Monsieur—Que Dieu vous bĂ©nisse—Les saints nous bĂ©nis en prĂ©servent,” she stammered, thanking, blessing him, and calling on the saints.

Dalton was tempted to call on them himself, but her outpouring took him by surprise.

Not content with acknowledging his aid, she turned to Tom, crouched on her other side, and blurted similar gratitude—nearly incoherent in the tumult raging around them. Tom gave a nod through gritted teeth then bent his head over the boat and heaved the contents of his volatile stomach.

She tilted her head at Dalton, eyes crinkled in sympathy. “Mal de mer,” she said, using the French for seasick.



~~ @ ~~


You have just read an excerpt from Into the Lion's Heart, by Beth Trissel.


~~ @ ~~




Well, while I'd love to talk and talk, I'm afraid we'll give away too much. Everybody stop right now and go buy Into the Lion's Heart! Fall in love with Captain Evans, I dare you not to.

Let's go back to you again, real quick, Beth. What’s been the greatest contributing factor to achieving the goals you’ve accomplished?


BT: Research.

Do you have goals you have yet to meet?

BT: Many tales to tell so little time.

Boy do I hear you there! I need three of me. As a writer, what is your greatest strength?

BT: Tenacity.

What do you find most difficult about your job as an author?

BT: Not getting bogged down in research and/or revisions, knowing when to move on.

Absolutely. So often I hear authors getting hung up in those steps, particularly revisions. Knowing when to move forward is really hard.

Okay, before you go, tell us where we can find you!

Website: http://www.bethtrissel.com/
Blog: One Writer’s Way
Twitter: @BethTrissel
Facebook: Beth Trissel

Anything else you want to share before we conclude?

BT: My youngest daughter, Elise, a recent college graduate (Summa Cum Laude!) with a double major in French and Art helped me with the snippets of French scattered throughout this story.

Congratulations to her! That's very impressive.

BT: Thanks so much for having me on your lovely blog, Claire.

You're most welcome! Come back soon, Beth!

~Claire
http://www.claireashgrove.com/


~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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I just finished reading a wonderful blog by Dean Wesley Smith on Talent, and the lack of existence of such a thing. You really should read it if you're writing at any stage of the game.

I have to say I both agree and disagree, as I believe that some people are more inherantly designed (through genetics) to excel in areas over their peers at a given time, place, or in a given career/job/sport/hobby. Case in point, myself -- I can hardly balance a checking account let alone do long division in my head or think in algebra. Fractions? Laugh. Yeah right. If it's beyond the simple metrics required for the kitchen, it simply ain't gonna happen.

Words, letters, languages, and anything along those subjects, have always been an area that felt like second skin.

Which leads back to the classic divisions of "left-brained" versus "right-brained." And I don't suppose that has a lot to do with his discussion on talent, because that's more aptitude than anything else.

What I want to get to is the discussion of SKILL. And how skill is directly related to the level of training put into an area, whether that area is in your comfort zone or not.

Everyone (yes everyone) has the ability to write and write well. Whether they do depends on two factors, and two factors alone:
a) the desire to do so
b) the desire to train

Note that I said "train" not practice. Let's look at this compared to say playing the clarinet. For those of you who've played any reed instrument you know very well what that nerve-grating squeak-honk noise is. When you pick up the instrument for the first time your almost invariably going to squeak several times. You move beyond the squeak by mastering the correct mouth position and adjusting airflow.

If you practice the incorrect positioning you'll never get beyond the squeak. If you train the muscles to form correctly around the mouthpiece and train the airflow, the squeak goes away.

This goes back to my constant position on writing -- it is like any other job or artform or sport. Regardless of any specific measure of success, success will only be achieved if the person trains.

It isn't about inherant skill or aptitude. It isn't about a natural ability to throw words together. It isn't about being gifted in storytelling, or being left-right brained. It is combining the desire to write with the necessary work to achieve the goal.

You want to be partner at a law firm? You put in the hours, the caseload, the schooling necessary to achieve the goal.

You want to win a gold medal at the Olympics? You put in the hours of training, studying, and obtain the right equipment to achieve the goal.

You want to fly an airplane, sail a boat, or learn how to fence? You put in the training.

If you want to write, you commit yourself to the desire and necessary training required to achieve the goal.

I too have been called "lucky", and been told I was in the "right place at the right time" and that this comes to me "naturally."

WRONG. Want the proof? Look at my earliest creations. The simple truths are:
1. I've been "writing" for a long time, simply because I enjoyed passing my time that way.
2. When I decided that I wanted to make a career out of my hobby, I committed to the goal.
3. I threw myself into writing and approached it the same way I would approach a 40+ hour a week job. Strict schedules, learning about my "competition", training my brain to adapt and use the craft I learned, picking every mind more knowledgeable than my own so I could understand the field.

I was published the year I joined RWA, not because I had some inborn gift, but because there was no other option for me and I was committed to the goal. I was gifted with the fact I had the ability to focus on my goal so much.

When the offer came and Tori St. Claire was born, it wasn't a matter of luck. By that time I had proven myself as a hard worker, willing to do what was required, and capable of understanding the demands of the genre.

I have a long way to go. Every day I adhere to my routine and never let myself think about what has been achieved, but what I can further do to continue to maintain a presence in my field. I still pick my peers brains. I still study the market. I still take craft classes. I still train my abilities. Daily. And I still find myself awed by authors around me, both those who've been published forever, those who aren't published at all, and those who are just coming out of the gates alongside me. There are amazing people here, who have their own training regimes and approaches. There is something to learn from each and every one of my peers.

So for those of you who are wanting to write, wanting to become published, I'll say it again -- approach it like a job and do the necessary training. Nothing can stop you if you keep that in mind. Not "talent" not "ability" not "genius" and certainly not "luck". Stop listening to those opinions. Write, if that's what you hear the calling to do.


~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com


~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Hi, Denise! I’m so glad to have you with us today because you embarked on something I’m not only eager to learn more about, but also because you’ve jumped off the ledge of the new world of publishing. You chose to self publish your book, and I admire that very much. Now, after it’s been out for a few weeks, you’ve received some phenomenal remarks and reviews. Which really speaks to the fact that publishing is changing and the Independent Author is completely capable of standing alongside the “old school” minds of traditional print.

With all that said, let’s tell everyone about your awesome book, Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes.


~~ @ ~~


For Rose Gardner, working at the DMV on a Friday afternoon is bad even before she sees a vision of herself dead. She’s had plenty of visions, usually boring ones like someone’s toilet’s overflowed, but she’s never seen one of herself before. When her overbearing momma winds up murdered on her sofa instead, two things are certain: There isn't enough hydrogen peroxide in the state of Arkansas to get that stain out, and Rose is the prime suspect.

Rose realizes she’s wasted twenty-four years of living and makes a list on the back of a Wal-Mart receipt: twenty-eight things she wants to accomplish before her vision comes true. She’s well on her way with the help of her next door neighbor Joe, who has no trouble teaching Rose the rules of drinking, but won’t help with number fifteen-- do more with a man. Joe’s new to town, but it doesn’t take a vision for Rose to realize he’s got plenty secrets of his own.

Somebody thinks Rose has something they want and they’ll do anything to get it. Her house is broken into, someone else she knows is murdered, and suddenly, dying a virgin in the Fenton County jail isn’t her biggest worry after all.




~~ @ ~~


Mmm. Sounds awesome! Now it's time for some fun stuff about you!



Briefly take us on the journey with you – when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, etc.



DGS: I've been writing since I started my first novel in fourth grade, a still unfinished novel currently at 70 wide ruled spiral notebook pages. I wrote in high school, took a creative writing class in college, tried to write a few novels in my twenties but never even made it to 20K.

I didn't start seriously writing until I started my blog There's Always Room for One More . I learned the art of plotting, and pacing, and writing a story so the readers felt like they were there. Two years later, I heard about NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and I decided if I was going to do this it was now or never. I started--and completed-- NaNoWriMo 2009. On November 30, I had 69K and I finished So Much to Lose on December 10 at 95K. That book will never see the light of day but that's okay. I learned so much from that novel. Since then, I've completed four more books, and I'm half-way through the first draft of another. I've threatened to haunt my children if they ever published that first book after I die.

Laugh! I have a couple like that too. And I'd definitely haunt my sons if they did something like that.



You write in the mystery genre. Is that your favorite genre to read? Do you write in any other genres, or under any other pen names you’d like to share?

DGS: I read everything, with the exception of non-fiction--if I can help it. I read Kill bin Laden by Dalton Fury to help me understand a character in my paranormal series, and I skimmed The Hidden Reality: Parallel Universes and the Deep Laws of the Cosmos, a physics book on alternate universe theories for my YA, but those are exceptions. I love Dean Koontz and early Stephen King. I love paranormal romances. I read a lot of YA. I love Sarah Addison Allens' magical realism. I love a light hearted mystery with a romance like Jamet Evanovich or Jennifer Crusie. I also love middle grade adventures like Percy Jackson.

So far I've written this mystery, two books in my paranormal thriller series, a young adult science fiction (alternate universe), and I'm in the middle of a middle grade urban fantasy. The common threads in all are: a mystery with varying degrees of thriller type moments and some sort of fantastical element. I write them all under Denise Grover Swank, although whenever I publish my middle grade, I will probably do so under a pen name.

Of the books you have written, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?

DGS: It's weird. I kind of think of my books like children. It's hard to pick a favorite but each has aspects I love more than the others. What I love about Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes is the main character Rose and her enthusiasm to live her life once she realizes she's been "frittering" it away. She's a fun, sweet character whose innocence is refreshing.

Let's talk a little more in detail about Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes. Tell us about your plot development? How did the idea spur, did you have to do much research, any interesting tidbits that we should know?

DGS: I had finished Chosen and was in the process of querying it and had received a devastating rejection. The agent said she loved it but didn't think she could sell it. I was in the middle of writing Hunted and stopped, deciding I needed to write something different. That was on a Saturday. A few days before I had mentioned to my son that it would be fun to have a character who worked in a DMV.

So I took that idea and played with it on Sunday, coming up with a short blurb. I started the book on Monday and finished 30 days later with an ending word count of 103K.(It's since been revised and edited down to 93K) The book wrote itself. It was pure magic. From the beginning, I knew Rose had visions. I knew the book started with her having a vision of herself dead and her mother getting murdered instead. A few days in I came up with her Wish List, the twenty-eight things she wants to do before she's murdered or arrested. I knew from the beginning that Joe, her next door neighbor, would be full of secrets. A lot of the story and plot came to me as I wrote. Toward the middle I started doing research to help me fill out the back end of the story.

It's so nice when books write themselves. I think those books have an especially magical way about them. What about your hero, Joe -- what’s one thing about your hero that we wouldn’t necessarily learn in the book? A secret dream, an embarrassing habit, an episode from childhood.

DGS: That Joe's family is old southern oil money and he hated growing up in that environment. (This isn't in the book at all.) We'll explore more of his past and how he tried to break free from it in future books.

All heroes are unforgettable in one way or another. What’s one thing about your hero that makes your heart go pitter-pat?

DGS: I love that Joe is a strong man who can be light-hearted with a good sense of humor. After writing Will, the hero in Chosen who is a very strong alpha male, it was nice to write a more laid back character. And while I LOVE Will, I think Joe would be a better fit for me, personally, as a partner.

If your hero doesn’t have a pet in your novel, what kind of pet would best suit his personality?

DGS: Joe doesn't have a pet, but I can totally see him with a Labrador or Golden Retriever.

Golden Retrievers -- another reason for everyone to love Joe. A man with a Golden is a wonderful thing.



But no hero is the same without a heroine. Tell us a little about Rose. a. Everybody has flaws. Sometimes they are endearing, other times they are annoying. What is your heroine’s greatest fault?

DGS: Rose's biggest flaw is she worries about what everyone else thinks about her and she begins the book with no confidence in herself. At the same time, she doesn't wallow in it. She just accepted it for what it was until she decides to change it.

Without giving away details that might spoil the story for those who have not read it, could you tell us the one strength your heroine provides to your hero?

DGS: Joe is fascinated by Rose and her lack of life experiences and her zest in trying to check off her wishes. Joe was fairly jaded and Rose helps Joe see the good in people again.

If your heroine was your daughter – what advice would you give her upon meeting your hero?

DGS: Wow. This is hard. ;) I think I'd tell Rose to trust her heart.

Sound advice. And particularly brave advice for a mom too!

If we peek in on your hero and heroine’s lives ten years from now, can you give us a glimpse of what we’d see?

DGS: Married with three kids and two dogs-- Rose has a dog Muffy in Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes and Joe would get his big dog. To Joe's surprise, I think they'd be living in Henryetta, Arkansas down the street from Violet, Rose's sister. And of course, they'd be deliriously happy.

Of course -- they can't end up any other way, right? Seriously, it sounds like they compliment each other very well, and the opposing experiences with life make for some wonderful encounters together.

Let's go back to you, as an author, for a bit, since we do have writers as well as readers here.
Many writers describe themselves as "character" or "plot" writers. Which are you?

DGS: I'm plot driven but the characters drive the plot. How's that for a jumbled answer? LOL First and foremost, the characters have to shine through. But they don't lay around either. The story has to keep moving. The readers of my books tell me they love the story, but it's the characters that stick with them after they finish the book.

You write in multiple genres --do you find it challenging to shift? Or is it a natural process?

DGS: Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes is lighter and humorous (although it has its darker moments) while Chosen and Hunted, are very dark and heavy. Will and Emma in Chosen have devastating back stories and their characters are much more flawed and hardened. I love that I can write dark books like Chosen and then write a lighter one like Twenty-Eight. I love the balance it gives my soul. I can't imagine only writing one or the other.

What would you like to say to writers who are reading this interview and wondering if they can keep creating, if they are good enough, if their voices and visions matter enough to share?

DGS: If you love to write-- WRITE. When I faced rejection after rejection, I had to ask myself: If I never sold a book could I be content with that? Would I write anyway? The answer was yes. The stories are in my head and I love the challenge of taking those thoughts and putting them on paper. Is it easy? Not at all. By the time I've got a book ready to be read by the public, I've been through that puppy at least twenty times. Or more. Sometimes MUCH more. But I love the story. I love the characters. I want them to live.

Craft can be learned. Your love of writing is born in you. That's the most important thing.

I agree 100%! Craft is learnable, everything else is in the author's blood.



Of the books you have written, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?

DGS: It's weird. I kind of think of my books like children. It's hard to pick a favorite but each has aspects I love more than the others. What I love about Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes is the main character Rose and her enthusiasm to live her life once she realizes she's been "frittering" it away. She's a fun, sweet character whose innocence is refreshing.

Okay with all that awesomeness about Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes, and for everyone whose dying to read more of you, please tell us about anything coming down the pipe next!


DGS: Chosen, the first book in my paranormal series will released on September 20, and Hunted, the second book in the series,in November.

Did you hear that everyone? September 20 -- mark your calendars!! Don't miss Chosen. I've had the privelige of hearing about Chosen before it was finished and it is one great story!



Thanks for being here today, Denise. Before we leave everyone with an excerpt from the book, where can we find you?

DGS: http://www.denisegroverswank.com/
Twitter: @DeniseMSwank
Facebook: Denise Grover Swank
Formspring: Denise Grover Swank

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

DGS: Check out the book trailer for Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes! You can view it here:



And last but not least, if you haven't read Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes, run right over here and BUY IT TODAY!


~~ @ ~~
EXCERPT

~~ @ ~~


There was another knock. My front door had seen more action in one evening than it had in the last two months. I took another deep breath and opened it, half expecting to see Joe again. Instead, I saw the Pillsbury Doughboy, or as close to what I’d ever see in real life. He was missing the chef’s hat and the kerchief, but his face was a pasty white and chubby, with big wide eyes like the Doughboy. His button-down shirt barely contained his wide, round gut, and the buttons threatened to pop. I resisted the urge to poke his belly with my finger to hear him giggle.


“Rose?” he asked, his voice shaking from fear. At least I think it was fear, from the look of pure terror on his face.

Nope, no giggling.


“Steve?” I asked, but I already knew it was him from the tie he wore and the Walmart flowers he held in his hand. Either that or he was a really generous Jehovah’s Witness. “It’s very nice to meet you.” I said, trying to sound cheerful.


He stood in silence, staring at me with his big round eyes.


“Do you want to come in?” I raised my eyebrows in a happy, questioning look.


He remained rooted to the porch. It occurred to me perhaps Joe or Mildred had applied Super Glue on the wood slats.


“I’ll just grab my purse.” I said and he thrust the flowers toward me. “Oh, are those for me? Why, thank you!” I took the flowers, leaving the door open and Steve on the porch.


“Here!” I shoved the flowers at Violet in the kitchen. “Take care of these.”


Violet’s face lit up like a kid getting cotton candy at the carnival. “He brought you flowers?”


I glared at her.


“Who brought y’all flowers? The devil next door?”


“No, Miss Mildred.” Violet said, patting Mildred’s arm. “It’s Rose’s date.”


“Date?” Mildred crowed. “After she carried on with that Yankee?”


“Don’t worry, Miss Mildred. Steve’s a good boy, good Henryetta stock. He’s Stan Morris’ grandson.”


I already regretted agreeing to this date and I hadn’t even left yet. I grabbed my purse and headed out the front door before Mildred and Violet decided to start checking Steve’s teeth. He stood exactly where I left him, wearing the same terrified expression, except he leaned to the side. I worried he would fall over trying to see something in the living room.


“Looking for something?” I asked, glancing over my shoulder.


If possible, his eyes got even bigger as he violently shook his head.


I shut the door as I realized what he was looking for—evidence of Momma’s murder. We started walking across the porch to the steps and I caught the glance he shot my direction, a look of fear. He thinks I killed Momma. There was no way I could go out with him. What I couldn't figure out is why he agreed to go out with me in the first place.


I stood next to the passenger door of Steve’s car. “Steve, I…” My words stopped on my tongue. Joe sat on his front porch, drinking a beer and watching my every move with a suspicious glint in his eye.


Crappy doodles.


Steve waited for me to finish.


I smiled up at him with my sweetest smile, which I hoped would convince him I was incapable of murdering anyone, least of all my own Momma. “I just wanted to tell you how delighted I am that you’re takin’ me out to dinner.” I said loud enough for Joe to hear. To finish it off, I raised up on my toes and kissed Steve on his pasty cheek, surprised it didn’t taste like biscuit dough. I hoped Joe didn't see Steve cringe at the contact.


I sat in the front seat, waiting for Steve to get in, smiling my fake happy smile. I was almost surprised to see him get in, half expecting him to run screaming down the street. I had to admit he had a nice car, one he probably didn't want to leave behind with a murderer. If I could murder my own Momma, I bet he could only imagine what I would do to his poor Buick.


~~ @ ~~



You've just read an excerpt from Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes, by Denise Grover Swank. If you'd like to read more, it's available in print and digital through Amazon, and other distributors. Please visit Denise's website for more details.



~Claire




~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Dangerously Naughty: Much Ado About... A Cover!: "I've been gnawing on my fingernails, squirming in my seat, totally anxious about what my cover for Stripped would look like. Don't get m..."

~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Well I said I'd be back with news this week -- and here I am.

A while back I intro'd a new series, Inherited Damnation. It's a small series of short stories in the paranormal romance genre.

Damned At Birth...

Thousands of years ago, sixteen children were born to the Selgovae High Priestess, Nyamah. Eight were sacrificed by their incubus father in a quest for eternal power. Eight Nyamah secreted away. For betraying her evil mate, she was executed, her body divided, her soul chained to the mortal plane.

Nyamah's magic lived on. Written before her death, her book of sacred rituals details the means of destroying the incubus, Drandar. If this is accomplished, her spirit will at last rest peacefully.

But the immortal children who can carry out the rituals are divided. Some crave the innocence of light and mortal existance. Some thrive on the dark needs of their conflicted souls. Others tend the balance, forever devoted to the ancient Celt ways.

None may ever know the beauty of love, for if they should, they cannot resist the calling to kill the one who holds their heart.


~@~

I'm extremely happy to announce that The Wild Rose Press has accepted the second book in the series, Tormented by Darkness.

Book one, Cursed to Kill, is coming sometime very soon. Still waiting on the release date, but it's finished with the editing process.

~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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Hi all!

Busy, busy month this last one. Copy edits, copy edits, and more copy edits, combined with my adorable, loveably little demi-demons' infatuation with the emergency room, pretty much covers where I've been. I had a post scheduled, but scheduled it for the day prior to when I wrote it... and that failed miserably. It's a subject I want to revisit -- so watch the blog in the next few days.

Also, watch Tori St. Claire's blog for some exciting information!

I'm slipping in here today to announce a contest that's running for all of you who'd like to try out a color Nook, or receive 249.00 in Amazon or B&N gift cards:

The Long and Short Reviews is sponsoring a web scavenger hunt. Full details are here. There's even two opportunities to enter! Come check out this exciting way to discover new authors and throw your name into the hat -- you can't beat the entry fee -- FREE!

And I will be back later this week with exciting stuffs and announcements!

~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com

~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com

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"Victorians used the term 'limbs' as a euphenism for legs, which were thought to be so sexually exciting to a man, even a glimpse of a table leg could incite him to sexual frenzy. Table skirts were invented to prevent any unnatural unions between men and furniture."
~
(History Channel International)

IMMORTAL TRUST is
AVAILABLE for PRE-ORDER




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