Interview with a Vampire by @karilemor #RomanceGems

We’re here at GEMs headquarters waiting to speak with none other than Darcy Marx, from the new release, BROKEN DREAMS. We’ve heard Ms. Marx is quite the character and are so pleased she agreed to this interview.

Darcy struts into the room and shakes her head, causing the short black spikes to rustle like grass in a field. The half dozen earrings in each ear sparkle when hit by the sun shining in the window.

“Darcy, thank you so much for meeting us today.”

Darcy plops into a seat and one side of her mouth lifts, “Yeah, whatevs. I had a few minutes since Tanner’s in school right now.”

“Of course. Let’s start with Tanner since you mentioned him. Why don’t you tell us how you came to be his nanny? I mean, you aren’t exactly the Mary Poppins type.”

Her darkly made up eyes narrow as she smirks. “I don’t carry an umbrella or a carpet bag. But I know kids, especially ones who have special needs. And I know how to provide what they need.”

“Your brother is disabled, correct?”

“No, he’s perfectly abled. He does have some developmental delays. But Zane isn’t on today’s menu, understand?” Her voice gets lower with her words.

“Yes, that’s fine. So, Tanner Storm?”

“Tanner and his needs are private, too, but I can tell you how I got the job. I was paired with the kid’s pretentious father in my friend Sara’s wedding. I got to hang out with the kid then, and he’s pretty cool. I started getting calls to help out whenever GQ needed a hand.”

“GQ?”

Darcy shrugs her delicate shoulders and the cut-out neckline of her black t-shirt slips off one.

“Nathaniel Storm, Esquire.  Corporate attorney to a number of New Hampshire’s big businesses. He looks like a GQ ad most of the time.” She lowers her head and mumbles, “Smells like one, too.”

“Ah, we also understand he has a nickname for you?”

Darcy rolls her eyes and grins. “Elvira. Mistress of the dark. I kinda like it.”

“Why does he call you that?”

“It might have had something to do with the all black ensemble I wore to the wedding rehearsal. Though when he first called me that I was draped in a pastel pink bridesmaid dress, so it really didn’t apply. Except maybe the dark lipstick I had on. Probably gave him the idea.”

“What color was it?”

“Blood Moon.” She makes a duck face to emphasize her dark red lips.

“We’d like to ask you about the small part you played in the earlier story, TRUE DREAMS. You set a lot of tongues wagging.”

Darcy laughs and her eyes light up. “Yeah, the boss wasn’t too happy when I kept sticking my nose into a bunch of scenes I hadn’t been scripted for. But let’s face it, every book needs a little comic relief and some good advice. TJ spent so much time organizing coffee cups and sh…stuff that he and Sara never would have gotten together if I didn’t give him a little kick in the pants every now and then.”

“We didn’t see any vampire jokes in True Dreams. Why not?”

Her face scrunches up. “I don’t give out all my secrets. Especially when the limelight needed to be on TJ and Sara.”

“Secrets? Are there any more you’d like to share with us?”

Her eyes grow sad and glisten with tears. After shaking her head, she clears her throat. “I’ve got to get the kid from school. It’s been real. But not real fun.”

Pushing to her combat boot-clad feet, she gives us a nod.

“Well, thank you for meeting with us. Good luck with your nanny position.”

“It’s just until GQ can find someone better. Not that anyone’s better than me.” She pulls keys from her jeans pocket. “My Beamer, courtesy of GQ. Kinda nice perk for the job.”

As she leaves the room, she peeks over her shoulder and gives us a wink.

~

If you could interview one person, fictional or real, living or dead, who would it be? 

COMMENT AND WIN

~~

Darcy's story, BROKEN DREAMS is available at most retailers.  

AND the first few books in the Storms of New England series, are currently on SALE for only 99c.  

But only until Aug 21 so GET THEM NOW!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084QBCGM3

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Kari%20Lemor%22

https://books2read.com/u/49ZqLX

~~

Make sure to check out the stories in our fantastic summer boxed set, LAST CHANCE BEACH: Summer’s End. There's something in this collection to suit all readers.   This set is a steal at only 99 cents. 

Plus there’s a free companion cocktail recipe book  Last Chance Cocktail Book

 

Maddie James Joins #RomanceGems by @JoanReeves

Somebody open the champagne! We've got a new Author on Romance Gems.

GIVEAWAY ALERT!
Details at the end of this post.

A new author joining our ranks is worth celebrating, but it's even better when that author is a longtime friend.

Please welcome Maddie James. Many of us already know Maddie so we know she'll be a valuable addition to our blog. You're going to love her books!

Maddie James: In Her Own Words

Maddie James writes to silence the people in her head—if only they wouldn’t all talk at once!

The author of 50+ romantic novels, novellas, and short stories, Maddie James pens romance and suspense fiction in contemporary and paranormal worlds. Her romance writing career launched in 1997 as a traditionally published author, and she has published with several traditional and small press publishers since then.

Currently an independent author, she publishes under her own imprint, Sand Dune Books. Besides romance fiction, Maddie writes non-fiction under another name with dozens of academic articles, briefs, chapters, and books to her credit.

Winner of the Calico Trails Cameo Award (Roses & Rawhide) and the Romance Book Scene’s Best Novella Award (Red: A Cajun Seduction Tale), Maddie has been listed as an Amazon Top 100 Contemporary Romance Author and an iBooks Rising Star of Western Romance.

Affaire de Coeur said, “James shows a special talent for traditional romance,” and RT Book Reviews claims, “James deftly combines romance and suspense, so hop on for an exhilarating ride.”

Visit Maddie Online

Website | Blog | Bookstore | Newsletter | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon | Bookbub | Books2Read

Harbor Falls Romance by Maddie James

For a limited time, you can get a Starter Set (Books 1 and 2) of the Harbor Falls series for only 99 cents at Amazon!

Currently, there are 14-books in this series so... 

Welcome to Harbor Falls! This two-book bundle is your series starter into the Harbor Falls Romance Series!

Enjoy the first two books in the series, sold at a discount, so you can meet and come to know many of the people, and the lifestyle, of Harbor Falls, North Carolina.

In this set, you'll find these two books:

• All of My Heart (Book 1) 
• Take My Heart (Book 2)

I hope you enjoy these stories! Love, Maddie

Blue Ridge Mountains by ChristianDevotions of Pixabay

About Harbor Falls Romance Series

Nestled in the rolling hills of the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains sits the small town of Harbor Falls.

The town that boasts a booming tourist industry laced with southern charm and grace, topped off with a host of quirky characters and one very busy resident by the name of Suzie Hart.

On the edge of town, tucked into the mountain foothills and on the shores of Falls Lake, sits a quaint Victorian bed and breakfast owned by small-town chef, Suzie Hart.

She calls her B&B Sweet Hart Inn, because well, Suzie is a chef of fantastic proportions, sweets are her forte, and of course her last name is Hart—which probably has nothing to do with the fact that she occasionally likes to dabble in matchmaking....

All of My Heart, Book 1

"True love conquers all—isn't that why we read these books?" EmmaRae, Romancing the Book (Review for All of My Heart)

Life is perfect.

When Suzie Hart inherits the lakeside Victorian cottage that eventually becomes Sweet Hart Inn, she imagines her life all planned out ahead of her. She will run the inn, write her recipes, conduct her cooking classes, and pick up an occasional catering job with her cousin Sydney Hart, who owns the local bakery.

Her life in Harbor Falls is predictable—a welcome change from the chaos of recent months—and that's the way she likes it. Predictability makes her happy.

And then chaos rides his bad ass Harley up to her bed and breakfast doorstep—and her perfect, predictable, and well-planned world starts crumbling like yesterday's blueberry muffins.

Brad Matthews has other ideas.

In fact, he has a plan. When Suzie worked as his sous chef in Asheville several months earlier, he had no intention of falling in love with the sassy chef—no room in his life for romance.

But when Suzie disappeared and took Brad's heart with her, his good intentions shattered. And even though Brad's plan involves making a lot of people in Harbor Falls angry (Suzie included), it is part of a bigger plan to get his own life and career on track, and to win Suzie Hart back into his arms—permanently.

But can Suzie let go of their muddled past, and her well-planned future, in order to finally find happiness with hunky Chef Brad? And can Brad alter his own plan, in order to get Suzie back?

"All of My Heart will have you up, down, hot and cold, and maybe just a little bit desperate too!" ~ Corrie, Lamplight Review & Promotion on Goodreads

Take My Heart, Book 2

The last thing Shelley Hart wants is to go home for the holidays. She left Harbor Falls years earlier and hasn't returned.

Her leaving humiliated her entire family and caused friction with her older sister, Suzie. Who could blame Suzie for being upset? After all, Shelley ran off and married Suzie's fiancé, Cliff.

But everything has changed now—and going home is her only option.

Harbor Falls Police Officer Matt Branson values being alone, even during the holidays. Dubbed the town hermit, he prefers the solitude of his mountain cabin to socializing with friends—friends who say he still pines after the woman who got away.

But the snowy day he pulls over an older model sedan speeding into Harbor Falls, things change. His gut slams against his backbone as a tearful woman rolls down the car window. His heart melts when she looks up into his eyes.

Shelley Hart is back in town—the woman who sent him into his cave in the first place.

Enter My Giveaway

(1) Prize: 1 box set of the Harbor Falls Starter Set

(2) Winner selected by Random Draw Name Picker App.

(3) How to enter. Leave a welcome comment for Maddie James along with your email address written out, not as a hot link, so you can be contacted if you are the winner.

(4) Comments close April 24, 8pm, Friday evening

(5) Winner notified April 27, Monday, at 8pm.

Thanks for visiting with me today! Remember to enter our April Read and Renew Giveaway. There are some very nice Amazon Gift Cards up for grabs!

Enjoy the rest of our "April Showers" month.

Be safe. Be happy. Be healthy!

Till Death Do Us Part – Halloween I Do’s by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

Halloween-themed table decorations by Julie & Albert Cook
Photo Credit: David Dougwillo

It’s YOUR big day! Aside from the date, the theme is likely your next big decision. Will it be casual or formal? Vintage or modern? Traditional or somewhere out-there? Local, destination? Humm… What if it falls on a holiday? And what if that holiday is HALLOWEEN?!! Oh, be still, my heart, now we’re talking fun! Yet, it can be so much more.

Here in New England—where Salem is considered the epicenter of Halloween—the question for some becomes, what better way to spend our special day than hosting a killer costume party with frightfully fun food and decorations? From light-hearted entertainment to downright freaky, couples are embracing Halloween and Gothic weddings with drop-dead gorgeous results.

According to many bridal publications, autumn is considered prime wedding season. Colorful leaves, cooler temps, dramatic sunsets—great stuff! (A bride very near and dear to my heart is planning a fall wedding for 2020, and it promises to be stunning) Yet some specifically choose to marry on October 31st. Here’s why…

Julie & Albert Cook's wedding dance
Photo Credit: David Dougwillo

Meet Julie and Albert Cook! They own and operate Raven Wolf Enchantments, an online Metaphysical shop, selling Gemstones, Jewelry, Tarot/Oracle readings, and various other magical curios.

Q. "Albert, you and Julie were married on Halloween?"

A. “Yes, Halloween 2015! In a little ceremony with our closest family and friends. It was small-scale, and we did it all ourselves in a few weeks, but it was everything we wanted in a wedding. Our theme stemmed from a mutual love of Halloween and Love. From the invitations, to the favors, decorations, cake, and guests (who all came in costume) it was a day we will never forget. Sharing it with my love made it the best day of my life.”

Q. "What was the reaction of friends and family to your plans?"

A. "They LOVED it! Some may have felt a little weird at first, but once they were there and having a great time… Everyone dressed up in costumes, some more elaborate than others. They knew ours wasn’t going to be a traditional ceremony, and I think they liked the fact that it was not the 'same old thing.' I mean, it was on Halloween, after all."

Julie & Albert Cook's lovely attendants
Photo Credit: David Dougwillo

Q. "Julie, you’ve shared some amazing photos and ceremony details with me. Yours was a very romantic event, something that might surprise those who think it’s all about the spooky."

A. "Aside from Halloween, Timeless Love played a big part. The poem ‘Key to Love’ was central. Our favors were little antique keys with tags and quotes. The poem was written in China by an anonymous writer during the first century. To us the words represent how true love transcends differences in time and culture to speak to the souls of humans. We were making the most sacred of promises to one another.”

Q. "What was your favorite part of that day?"

A. From Julie: "The 'reveal moment' at our home in Rockport, MA. Everyone had left to go to the hall. Al waited in the front yard for me to walk out of the house. The only other person there was our photographer. I got to see his expression, seeing me in my dress for the first time. It was magic!”

The Cook's Halloween-themed cake
Photo Credit: David Dougwillo

Albert and Julie’s special day was intimate and came together rather quickly, but some Halloween-themed weddings, engagements, and vow renewals require significant preparation. Get an early start, especially if you want a popular date or destination, and search for tips and inspiration online. If you'd like to learn more about weddings in Salem, MA (Anytime of the year is lovely!) visit Things to do in Salem. It's a fun site for planning any visit to one of my favorite cities.

So, by now I’m guessing you know I LOVE HALLOWEEN! The holiday even plays a role in my Time Traveler’s Journey Series. Sometimes during modern days, other times it's the late Victorian era, but it's always in New England. Visit my website to learn more.

Thanks for reading!

~ Kathryn ~

Don't forget our Monthly Giveaway!

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED to the ROMANCE GEMS June Wedding celebration. Enter our RAFFLECOPTER for a chance to win jewelry designed for Readers, or Amazon Gift Cards, or romance ebooks about love & weddings.

Hint, hint... My book, Hellfire and Handbaskets, is one of many you can win.
But HURRY - This giveaway ends soon.

Good luck, and thank you for visiting #RomanceGems!

Living History – My Interview with a Time Traveler by #Kathryn Hills

Gunfire. Smoke. Sounds of screaming men. A fierce battle is underway. Or, is it?

Welcome to the fascinating world of modern-day time travel!

According to definitions.net, living history, also known as re-enactment, is the act of incorporating historic tools, activities, and dress into an interactive experience that gives observers and participants a sense of stepping back in time. In this case, the battle waging is part of Redcoats and Rebels, the largest military re-enactment in New England with nearly 1,000 soldiers portraying British, Irish, Spanish, Scottish, French, and Colonial troops. The event takes place each summer at Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts.

Redcoats & Rebels - Photo by Chris Pratt

I’m lucky enough to call one of those participants my friend. Jennifer Emerson is a living history playwright, First-Person Interpreter/re-enactor, performer, and speaker for nearly two decades. As part of His Majesty's 54th Regiment of Foot—a British regiment—she transforms into Naomi Wade, a camp cook, laundress, and aid to the surgeon.

Jennifer and the other historic re-enactors I’ve since come to know are deeply passionate. This is dedicated, hard work. Years of study and preparation, countless hours of practice, hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to become someone they admire or wish to embody from the past.

Jennifer with fellow re-enactor Robert Lecce - Photo by Chris Pratt

Q “Why do you do it?” I asked.

A “Seeing the fire, smelling the food, learning about the labor required to live in the past—perhaps even to survive a Revolutionary War battle—it’s an enchantment to the senses. Reading about history is great. It’s required for this endeavor. But seeing it, feeling it, experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells first-hand… There is no equal. What re-enactment does is add another layer to learning, a flesh and blood element. Clothing, tools, and language all make for a rich sensory experience. It’s visual, tactile, and exciting for all ages.

“Not every re-enactor is in First-Person,” she explains further. “Some are in Third-Person - dressed accurately but being themselves. Some are in Second-Person - dressed accurately and playing a character while knowing you are from another time.”

Q “So, you’ve told me why you do this for others – to teach. Why do you do it for you?”

A Long pause. “For a few fleeting moments I’m a time-traveler. There is no better thing for a historical writer and performer. It’s another era, a world gone forever. Yes, there is the risk of romanticizing the past, but most re-enactors strive for realism. The past is more than most imagine. There’s much to learn there.”

Naomi with the surgeon, fellow re-enactor Dan Newman
Photo by Chris Pratt

Q “Why Naomi Wade?”

A “Rich ladies with fine dresses and pretty hair were fun to play, but after a decade that got boring for me. I wanted to portray a “work-a-day” woman. To me, that’s where the real stories are. Naomi is a survivor; a London girl and fiercely loyal to King George III. Yet the love of her life was lost in this war. She churns butter, cooks over an open flame, washes clothing in a tub, and assists the surgeon in caring for the men, even during amputations. Her story is important to understand.”

Q “So, Naomi is based on a real person?”

A “She’s a composite character, meaning I’ve incorporated stories from many factual individuals into one. That way more of their stories can be told. I use primary sources, actual letters and journals from the time period, plus secondary sources, and modern history books.

“Naomi is also evolving. The surgeon taught her to read, and she’s learning 18th century herbal medicine. I’ll keep you posted on where she’s headed next.”

I can’t help but wonder if the re-enactment enthusiasts I’ve introduced you to here would travel back in time if given the opportunity. The answer is a resounding, “YES!” for one of my secondary characters in Hellfire and Handbaskets. Re-enactor Deirdra Adams has quite an adventure! She may even have more hijinks up her dainty Victorian sleeves in the future. Or, is it the past? Maybe both? *wink*

Here’s a link to Book 2 of my Time Traveler’s Journey Series – Hellfire and Handbaskets - if you’d like to meet Miss Adams. My books are stand-alone. No need to read in order.

Follow my author’s Facebook page for more to come about these “modern day time travelers” and the historic locations we frequent. To learn more about me and my books, visit my web site.

~Kathryn~


Sources & Links 

Jennifer Emerson    •    Petticoat Pages

Old Sturbridge Village     •    Redcoats & Rebels

YouTube Video of Redcoats & Rebels

Photographer Chris Pratt on flickr    •   Videographer Chris Pratt on vimeo

Our MARCH GIVEAWAYS are in full swing!

Comment & Win - Leave a comment on any post in March + Your Email Addy—written out, i.e. Mary at yahoo dot com. (We need your email to verify you are who you say you are and to contact you.) The more comments you make; the greater your chance of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries.

Prizes: $5.00 Amazon Gift Card at the end of each week beginning March 8 for a total of 4 Amazon Gift Cards

Friends Tell Friends - To enter, send your friends to visit us. When your friend visits and reads a post, she should (1) leave a comment with her email addy written out (2) leave the name and email of the friend who referred her. (Readers, coordinate this with your friend.) Both names/emails will be entered in Friends Tell Friends Giveaway. The more friends you bring; the greater your chances of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries at end of March.

Prizes: Romance Readers Tee & Audiobook by Nancy Fraser

Luck O' The Irish Rafflecopter - Be a Star—Name a Character

1st Grand Prize Winner - The Honor of Naming a Female Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card. 2nd Grand Prize Winner - The Honor of Naming a Male Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

Visit our Monthly Giveaway Page to learn more. Remember, the more you enter; the better your chances to win.

Introducing Cheryl Bolen by @JoanReeves #RomanceGems

Normally, Karyn Gerrard blogs on the 14th. However, Karyn had pressing commitments and could not be with us today.

I told Karyn I'd take the opportunity to introduce Cheryl Bolen, a bestselling author and one of my friends in real life.

Cheryl and I go back a long way to the time before either of us was published.

I remember when she made her first sale. I took a bouquet of stargazer lilies to her at our RWA Chapter meeting the night she announced it.

I won't tell you how long ago that was. Suffice it to say all of our kids are grown, and we've traveled many a mile on the road to success.

About Cheryl Bolen

Since being named Notable New Author for 1998, Cheryl has published 39 books with Kensington/Zebra, Harlequin, Love Inspired Historical, Montlake, and independently. She has broken into the top 5 on the New York Times and hit the USA Today bestseller lists.

Her 2005 romance One Golden Ring won Best Historical, Holt Medallion, and her 2011 novel My Lord Wicked was awarded Best Historical, International Digital Awards, the same year her Christmas novella was chosen as Best Novella.

Her books have been finalists for other awards, including the Daphne du Maurier, and have been translated into nine languages. Cheryl also has consistently been the number 1 bestselling historical romance author in Germany.

She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and English from the University of Texas and a master's degree from the University of Houston.

Her favorite pursuits are traveling to England, watching the University of Texas Longhorns play football and basketball, and reading letters and diaries of dead English women.

Visit Cheryl Online

Subscribe to Newsletter | Regency Ramblings Blog | Website | Facebook | Pinterest

Last Duke Standing by Cheryl Bolen

As the third son of the Duke of Fordham, Alex never thought he'd become a duke. But he's suddenly catapulted to the lofty title after his slightly older brother dies in his sleep.

Now Alex has the onerous task of announcing the death to the woman his brother was to wed.

Ever pragmatic, Lady Georgiana Fenton insists on seeing the late duke's body, and when she does, she's convinced he was smothered as he slept.

She and the new duke decide to secretly work together to uncover the murderer. But the longer they're together, the harder it becomes to resist the duke's scorching kisses—and even harder to dismiss him from the list of suspects. No one had more to gain by her fiancé's death.

Reviews for Last Duke Standing

"A wonderful mystery tale in the vein of Agatha Christie. Ms. Bolen does a masterful job creating suspects, then cleverly entwining their motives to keep her readers guessing whodunit. . .A lovingly crafted historical novel with a deeply satisfying mystery!" -- InD' Tale

"An exquisitely written historical romantic suspense with very appealing characters" -- Fresh Fiction

"This book really ticked all the boxes for me and it gripped me from start to finish. " -- Dragonrose Books Galore

"Cheryl Bolen spins a delightful tale of mystery, politics, and (of course) romance " -- IN PRINT

LUCK O' THE IRISH Giveaway: 3 Ways to Win

Our March Giveaway is in full swing. See all the prizes on the Monthly Giveaway page.


Comment & Win

Leave a comment on any post in March + Your Email Addy—written out, i.e. Mary at yahoo dot com. (We need your email to verify you are who you say you are and to contact you.)

The more comments you make; the greater your chance of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries.

Prizes: $5.00 Amazon Gift Card at the end of each week beginning March 8 for a total of 4 Amazon Gift Cards.

1 of the Friends Tell Friends Prizes

Friends Tell Friends

To enter, send your friends to visit us. When your friend visits and reads a post, she should (1) leave a comment with her email addy written out (2) leave the name and email of the friend who referred her. (Readers, coordinate this with your friend.)

Both names/emails will be entered in Friends Tell Friends Giveaway. The more friends you bring; the greater your chances of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries at end of March.

Prizes: Romance Readers Tee & Audiobook by Nancy Fraser

Luck O' The Irish Rafflecopter

Be a Star—Name a Character

1st Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Female Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

2nd Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Male Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

Other Rafflecopter Prizes are shown on the Monthly Giveaway.

Enter the Rafflecopter and the other Giveaways often. The more you enter; the better your chances to win.

Click to enter LUCK O' THE IRISH Romance Gems Giveaway

.

Introducing Kathleen Lawless by @JoanReeves #RomanceGems

I'd like to introduce you to Kathleen Lawless, one of our older blog's original members.

Kathleen helped transform the old blog into the dynamic new Romance Gems group blog with 23 bestselling authors contributing posts.

About Kathleen Lawless

Kathleen has garnered rave reviews for her books and numerous awards including Romantic Times K.I.S.S., a Scarlett Letter, and a Golden Quill.

She said her earliest memories are of wanting to be a writer. To create stories that would touch the lives of others who love to read the way she does.

"It’s amazing to see the changes in traditional publishing, including ebooks and the opportunities writers have to interact with their readers,” she said.

Kathleen enjoys pushing the boundaries of traditional romance into erotic romance, romantic suspense, women’s fiction and stories for young adults.

She also knows about happy endings. “Can you believe I wrote A Hard Man to Love with a hero named Steele, years before I met my own hero named Steel? He’s far and away the most romantic man I’ve ever known.”


Visit and Follow Kathleen Online: Website | Amazon | BookBub | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter

How I Became a Writer
by Kathleen Lawless

I still remember the day my grandfather Lawless, who was babysitting me, said, “You read so many books, Kathleen. One day you’ll have to write you own.”

It was a pretty big ‘ah-hah’ moment for a little girl.

From that day forward I had a new affection for writing, and discovered the research department of our town’s library. As a teen, I spent nearly as much time there as at the mall.

And one fateful day, on a borrowed typewriter while my baby napped, inspired by Johanna Lindsey’s Captive Bride, I started writing a romance novel.

Fast forward the boring years of learning to write, collecting rejections, and being on a first-name basis with the postal clerk.

Encouragement from Cosmo

One happy day Cosmopolitan magazine called with the news they were buying a slush pile article I had sent them. It wasn’t a book sale, but it was validation.

I worked harder. I joined RWA. I networked my butt off. I invited Jayne Ann Krentz for coffee when I was in Seattle. I scored an agent. I wracked up a shocking number of rejections.

I’m not sure if there’s any connection, but on the very day my husband and I decided to separate, my agent called with an offer from HarperCollins.

Newly-single, with three kids and no job or credit rating or even my own credit card, I used that first contract and book cover to secure a mortgage and hang onto the family home.

I sold five books to HarperCollins and Kensington in just over a year, but the income was unreliable.

I went to work full time. I continued to write.

At long last Harlequin bought a book, at which point the editor promptly went on maternity leave.

The book became a doorstop in NYC. The line it was slated for closed. Two years later, with my editor again pregnant, I was forced to do extensive re-writes to shape it for another line. (Never again)

Older and wiser, I sold more books to Kensington’s Kate Duffy, and experimented with something far more steamy than traditional romance.

Kate hated it.

Lucky for me, Micki Nuding at Pocket Books loved it.

It was the first of 6 erotic romances I wrote for Pocket, long before there was 50 shades of anything out there in booklandia.

Bella Andre joined our Erotic Romance team of authors.

Things Change

Alas, publishing was starting to have some transitional pains. I couldn’t sell another book. Bella was smart and pioneered the indie world.

It took me a lot longer to catch on. But I’m here now, having recently said farewell to the day job. Much has changed over the years, but a great story is still a great story, still guaranteed to find an audience of readers.

Callie's Honor by Kathleen Lawless

For Callie Lambert, widowhood is a damn sight better than being married ever was!

Men in her life have given her nothing but grief, and for once she finally gets to do things her way. Until a handsome stranger arrives on the scene. If it’s not bad enough he’s there, her life is further complicated when someone drops an infant at her door.

Not the drifter he pretends to be, Rafe Millar is a man with a mission, seeking revenge for his brother’s death. Callie’s ranch is the perfect location to carry out his plans and then he’ll be on his way.

Except something about Callie’s proud, defiant green eyes makes him care more than he wants to or should. Especially when her home goes up in flames and it’s his fault.

Everyone Rafe has ever loved has died. But can he leave Callie to the mercy of her unscrupulous neighbor? Not to mention there’s the baby to consider.

Reviews for Callie's Honor

“A tantalizing western adventure set in rural Oregon, 1868.” Rawhide and Lace

“This heart-warming Western adventure demonstrates convincingly that love is always a risk worth taking.” Romantic Times

Callie's Honor is a Free Kindle Unlimited Read or buy and keep forever.

3 Ways to Win Our March Giveaways

Our March Giveaway is in full swing. See all the prizes on the Monthly Giveaway page.

Here are the 3 ways to win.

Comment & Win

Leave a comment on any post in March + Your Email Addy—written out, i.e. Mary at yahoo dot com. (We need your email to verify you are who you say you are and to contact you.)

The more comments you make; the greater your chance of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries.

Prizes: $5.00 Amazon Gift Card at the end of each week beginning March 8 for a total of 4 Amazon Gift Cards.

Friends Tell Friends

To enter, send your friends to visit us. When your friend visits and reads a post, she should (1) leave a comment with her email addy written out (2) leave the name and email of the friend who referred her. (Readers, coordinate this with your friend.)

Both names/emails will be entered in Friends Tell Friends Giveaway. The more friends you bring; the greater your chances of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries at end of March.

Prizes: Romance Readers Tee & Audiobook by Nancy Fraser

Luck O' The Irish Rafflecopter

Be a Star—Name a Character

1st Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Female Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

2nd Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Male Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

Other Rafflecopter Prizes are shown on the Monthly Giveaway.

Enter the Rafflecopter and the other Giveaways often. The more you enter; the better your chances to win.


Click to enter LUCK O' THE IRISH Romance Gems Giveaway

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Authors of Luck O' The Irish March Giveaway

Our LUCK O' THE IRISH Giveaway is made possible by some pretty fabulous bestselling authors.

Not only did they fund the Giveaway, but also they are the ones who have volunteered to allow 2 Grand Prize Winners to name a character in an upcoming Romance Novel.

So, Readers, if Fortune smiles on you, and your name is selected as a Grand Prize Winner, you get to Name a Character in a book by the Author you select.

You'll also get an Acknowledgement in the book that you named the character as a result of winning a contest here on Romance Gems.

In alphabetical order, these are the bestselling, award-winning authors who volunteered their work in progress.

Here's to Good Luck & Good Books!

Bonnie Edwards: Craving Jake, Contemporary Romance, to be published July 2019.

Cheryl Bolen: Untitled Regency Romance, to be published 2020.

Connie Vines: Untitled Romance, to be published 2019 or 2020.

Elsa Kurt: The Two Tenleys, to be published July 2019.

Jan Scarbrough: Kelsey: Ghost Mountain Ranch, Modern Western Romance, to be published December 2019.

Joan Reeves: The World Is Round, Contemporary Romance/Women's Fiction Elements, to be published June 2019.

Karen Kelley: Well, Bless Your Heart, Southern Sass Book #1, Romantic Comedy, to be published May 2019.

Kathleen Lawless: Brody's Bride, 7 Brides for 7 Brothers Book #1, Western Romance, to be published June 2019.

Nancy Fraser: Kilt and Kaboodle, Romantic Comedy, to be published 2020.

Nora LeDuc: A Secret in Star Pointe, to be published September 2019.

Peggy Jaeger: Baked with Love, A Match Made in Heaven Book #3, Contemporary Romance, to be published in 2020.

Lucinda Race: The Matchmaker and Mistletoe, Christmas Romance, to be published  November 2019.

Satin Russell: Secret Dream, Romantic Suspense, to be published in November 2019.

3 Ways to Win in March: Good Luck, Readers!

Our March Giveaway is in full swing. See all the prizes and the Giveaway Terms on the Monthly Giveaway page.

Comment & Win

Leave a comment on any post in March + Your Email Addy—written out, i.e. Mary at yahoo dot com. (We need your email to verify you are who you say you are and to contact you.)

The more comments you make; the greater your chance of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries.

Prizes: $5.00 Amazon Gift Card at the end of each week beginning March 8 for a total of 4 Amazon Gift Cards.

Friends Tell Friends

To enter, send your friends to visit us. When your friend visits and reads a post, she should (1) leave a comment with her email addy written out (2) leave the name and email of the friend who referred her. (Readers, coordinate this with your friend.)

Both names/emails will be entered in Friends Tell Friends Giveaway. The more friends you bring; the greater your chances of winning. Winner selected by random draw from eligible entries at end of March.

Prizes: Romance Readers Tee & Audiobook by Nancy Fraser

Luck O' The Irish Rafflecopter

Be a Star—Name a Character

1st Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Female Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

2nd Grand Prize Winner

The Honor of Naming a Male Character in an Author's upcoming Book plus $10.00 Amazon Gift Card.

Other Rafflecopter Prizes are shown on the Monthly Giveaway Page.

Enter the Rafflecopter and the other Giveaways often. The more you enter; the better your chances to win.


Click to enter LUCK O' THE IRISH Romance Gems Giveaway

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Introducing Karen Whiddon by @JoanReeves #RomanceGems

Karen Whiddon has been in a group blog with me since 2016.

I'm so pleased she stayed with us during the transition to Romance Gems because she truly is a Gem of an Author.

Before I tell you more about Karen, I want to remind you of our giveaways.

Click here to enter the Rafflecopter for a chance to win a Kindle Fire and Ebook Gift Bundles.

To enter COMMENT & WIN Weekly Giveaway, just leave a comment on this post, or any of the posts throughout February, with your email address written out, i.e. Mary at yahoo dot com. The more comments you make; the greater your chance of winning.

About Karen Whiddon

Karen spun fanciful tales for her younger brothers as early as the age of eleven.

Growing up in the Catskill Mountains of New York, then the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, she found enough magic in the rugged peaks to keep her imagination fueled for years. Now she makes her home in North Texas and shares her life with her hero-like husband and four doting dogs. In her spare time, Karen volunteers for Legacy Boxer Rescue, Inc.

Find Karen Whiddon Online

Website | Blog | Amazon | Facebook

Karen's Story: How I Became a Writer

How did I become an author? Back in the late 80's, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer and had to have a hysterectomy.

During the 8 week recovery period, I used an old electric typewriter I'd purchased at a garage sale and typed out my first book. Single spaced.

I didn't know any better. I used white-out to fix errors and sent that book in to Harlequin, my dream publisher.

Over the course of the next 3 years, they sent revise and resubmit letters, and I revised and resubmitted. After 3 years and many versions later, they ultimately rejected it for being "too similar" to other books they had in the line up.

I wrote 5 complete manuscripts after that, over a period of 9 years while working full time. They were all rejected. I joined a large critique group, RWA, and my local chapter. I attended workshops, seminars, conferences, and read writing books. I learned, learned, and learned.

Finally, in 1996, I sold to Kensington Precious Gems. I used that advance to buy my first laptop - an open box item - and wrote 4 more books for them.

Meanwhile, I worked on the book of my heart, a Time Travel Faerie romance. When Dorchester called to buy it, I cried.

That book, Soul Magic, went all the way to #1 on Amazon! Again, I wrote 4 books for them, obtained an agent after the first sale, and continued learning.

Finally, in 2003, I sold to Harlequin. I was ecstatic. My 45th book with Harlequin comes out in April 2019. It will be my 55th book overall.
Now, I'm getting some rights reverted and dipping my toes into the self-publishing waters. I'm excited and nervous, all at once.

For Your Consideration

Secrets of the Wolf, Winner of the Romantic Times Best Silhouette Romance, is a book with a cover I love.

Brie Danzinger returns to her birthplace wanting answers. Her childhood memories are hazy, but she knows her mother was murdered and the killer was never found.

She discovers a family she'd never known—and is immediately attracted to the secretive police chief Reed Hunter. He has secrets he won't share and she's not sure if they are about her mother or more personal.

Upon meeting Brie, Reed can't deny the craving. But he's a shape-shifter, a member of the Pack. And his family carries a curse that could mean her death. He vows to keep her safe and protect her, but he cannot save her from the truth about herself.

Readers, Karen's award-winning romance, Secrets of the Wolf, is a free read if you're a Kindle Unlimited subscriber, or buy it for only $2.99, and keep it forever.

Thanks for visiting with us today. Remember, enter the Rafflecopter embedded below and leave a comment with your email addy to enter Comment & Win.


Romance Gems Rafflecopter Giveaway