Wanderlust! It’s A Writer Thing by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

Okay, I admit it. I’ve had a serious case of Wanderlust. If you don’t know what that means, the definition, according to urbandictionary.com, is… “A very strong or irresistible impulse to travel.”

As a self-proclaimed road warrior, I miss what I fondly call “adventuring.” Visiting all sorts of historic and unique locations. Yet in the absence of safe travel during the pandemic, I’ve opted to journey in my writer’s mind. Once I’d come to grips with staying home, endless new possibilities opened up to me.

I’ve been told I’m a very descriptive writer. Something I consider a compliment, since I work hard at it, taking up extended residence in all my book settings. You see…that’s the other side of me. I’m a big-time homebody. Whether it’s a haunted mansion or a charming seaside B&B, I move in and make myself right at home. Sights, sounds, scents…Everything surrounds me in my imagination to become part of the story.

A reader once asked me how I do it, describe a fictitious place as if it’s real. “I can’t even tell you what’s happening around me most days. Forget about making something up,” she said with a chuckle.

I explained to her, “Trust me, that’s me too. Ask my family just how well I tune out the real world when a story is brewing in my head."

Yet sometimes, at special times, my writer’s brain takes over and slows me down. Bits and pieces from past experiences and memories of real places come together to create a setting. Sunlight becomes more than just nice weather. The fire in the hearth transforms into something other than warmth. Old wood makes sounds and has a different scent depending on the weather. (Have you ever been in a centuries-old building during a thunderstorm? I highly recommend it!) Fabric, and even a gust of wind, can hold a mesmerizing fragrance. Life becomes more than just day-to-day “stuff.” It transforms into an adventure as words create worlds for my characters. And THAT is very cool!

My mother—an avid reader when she was on this earth—is likely smiling at me now, considering my third-grade teacher told her I was “prone to daydreaming.” 😊

These musings inspire and excited me as I plan out my busy writing schedule for the upcoming year. A year that will likely mean MANY more hours in this old chair, surrounded by three sleepy dogs, and countless empty coffee mugs. As a teaser, I’ll share that there will be more haunted mansions to occupy my days and a return to both Sandpiper Cottage and Dickens. Plus, some special new destinations to explore. Forests and waves, townsfolk, and caves – you name it! I’m going places, and I’m thrilled! I’ll be adventuring again, though I don’t need to leave the warm spot of this worn leather seat.

Until we can ALL go adventuring together again, pick up a book and explore a new place. How about a pirate ship, or maybe the old west? A city on the moon or a quaint New England town? Take your pick! Or write your own journey. There is no limit to how far you can travel when your imagination is set free to wander.

Tell me… Do you have a favorite book setting? A fictitious place that sparks your sense of Wanderlust? Has an author written a setting so well that you feel like you were actually there? I'd LOVE to hear about it!

Thanks for reading. Until next time...Stay safe, be well, and have some fun adventuring. Even if it is from the comfort of your own home.

~ Kathryn

You can find my books HERE, or visit any major online book retailer.

 

Coffee and Conversation with the #RomanceGems

It's time for Coffee and Conversation with the Romance Gems! So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and join us for some fun. This month's topic is: Be a tour guide to a place you love.

2020 is certainly one for the record books, and most folks I know are eager to get back to “some kind of normal.” For many, that includes travel. So, let’s do a bit of armchair traveling, shall we?

Be an expert tour guide to a place you love. Hint…This does not need to be the Pyramids of Giza unless you want it to be. It could be a favorite vacation spot, a museum, the town you grew up in, even your backyard garden. Let’s talk!

“California’s Hearst Castle, which I’ve visited four times, ranks up there with the world’s great sites. Two things make it stand apart: its spectacular setting five miles above the Pacific Ocean and its rich history of the early California film industry. When Hearst was living there with his actress lover in the 1930s, it was a gathering place for Hollywood’s elite. There’s a spectacular outdoor pool as well as a spectacular indoor pool with tiles made of real gold. Hearst owned fifty miles of the California coast. He spent $1 million a year on art and antiquities during the Depression” ~ Cheryl Bolen

“Indiana used to be a big, BIG railroad place. It’s not so much anymore, but it’s still a big railroad TRACKS place. However, many of those tracks have become walking and riding trails. One of them, the 37-mile Nickel Plate Trail, meanders through the fields about a mile and a half from my house. It’s where I walk, get out of the corners I’ve written myself into, pray, and find peace in a time when it’s hard to find. I am accompanied by squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and the occasional snake, to mention a few. While I’ve never learned to properly identify either birds or wildflowers, there are multitudes of them on the Trail to enjoy. Come and visit!” ~ Liz Flaherty

“Here in St. Augustine, in the northeast part of Florida, we have something called Nights of Lights. The entire historical downtown area is lit up with lights everywhere. Visit the Plaza de la Constitucion and see the gazebo and Christmas tree and all the trees covered in lights. Or walk down quaint St. George Street where the buildings are pulled right from the past. Visit the little shops and restaurants and sit outside watching boats cruise on the Matanzas River. Many of them are covered in lights as well. The beauty will definitely get you in the mood for Christmas!” ~ Kari Lemor

“My favorite vacation spot is Las Vegas. From the gambling (within reason) to the shows, to the glitz and glamor ... it's more fun than should be legal! My last trip netted a comped stay at the Wynn Casino with their amazing topiary AND a chance to see Elton John in concert!” ~ Nancy Fraser

“One of the places I love best is the American Saddlebred barn, Premier Stables, where I take riding lessons. I love the smell of cedar shavings and horses. I enjoy riding lessons and the feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment. And at the end of the lesson, I love handing out peppermint treats.” ~ Jan Scarbrough

“Butchart Gardens’ sunken garden, built on the site of an old limestone quarry, is one of the most photographed gardens in the world, hosting one million visitors annually. Even then, I can always find a quiet corner to hide away, whether it’s a pond-side gazebo in the Japanese Garden, or a secret bench behind a bower of roses. “Sometimes parts of the family home are open for tours, set with original furnishings and photos. Fireworks and concerts in the summer, or a romance lover’s winter wonderland with the 12 days of Christmas creatively displayed on fifty-five acres, these gardens are always a crowd pleaser.” ~ Kathleen Lawless

Photo Credit, Carole Thornton 

“Snow swirls hypnotically across the windshield as we pick our way through Crawford Notch in northern New Hampshire. One more turn and we’ll see her. Stark white and magnificent, topped with a shiny red roof. Distinct against the bluish grey of the tallest mountain in the northeast. Our home away from home for a long winter’s weekend—the glorious Omni Mount Washington Hotel!

“This marvel of modern ingenuity for its time (construction completed in 1902) was built by Joseph Stickney, a gilded-age industrialist who made a fortune in coal and railroads. He spared no expense. Today the resort offers luxury accommodations, outstanding restaurants, a prohibition-era bar, colorful history, and epic mountain views. Plus, it’s haunted! That’s my kind of place!” ~ Kathryn Hills

***

Okay, it's your turn to join the conversation! Add your comments below or send via email through the "contact us” link on the bottom of the left sidebar. You can also make suggestions on what you'd like to discuss here in the future.

Thanks for joining us! Wishing EVERYONE a happy, healthy, wonderful holiday season and New Year!

~ The Romance Gems ~

Coffee and Conversation with the #RomanceGems

It's time for Coffee and Conversation with the Romance Gems! So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and join us for some fun.This month's topic is: What are your plans for Summer 2020?

It’s officially summer here in the northern hemisphere! That typically means vacation-time and/or warm weather fun. But this is 2020, and lots of things are different. So, tell me… What are your plans for this summer? Is it a road trip in an RV, or maybe a visit to family? Are you traveling as usual or enjoying a staycation? The beach/pool with a good book? Or, fun in the backyard with the kids, grand kids, or pets? Let’s talk!

“Since my youngest was born, we have been spending a week or more with my in-laws camping, or "cabining" in the great state and wilds of Texas. We haven't exhausted all the vacation spots in Texas, but we've decided to venture out. We'll be heading to Arkansas this year, and we're VERY excited! Can't wait!” ~ Kara O'Neal

“My Summer plan is to survive my deadlines! What was I thinking? No vacation until September when I hope Covid19 is a thing of the past so I can go on a cruise and be pampered. Imagine! Food you don't have to cook? Lazing around and doing nothing but reading and drinking pretty cocktails with cute little umbrellas. If the cruise doesn't work out, I'll recreate that at home. Restaurant meals delivered for a week. There's even a place that delivers frozen margaritas and daiquiris! Unbelievable. So I'll happily write away the summer days, waiting for September.” ~ Joan Reeves

“I love the beach. Salty air, jetty’s and sand count me in and it doesn’t matter the season. Each summer hubby and I like to get away and camp. My dream is to set up right on the beach where I can wake up to the smell of the crisp air and stick my toes in the water before breakfast. These campgrounds are booked a year in advanced. I’m tenacious and I will be victorious. Until then, we’ll be a mile away, but in my mind, the ocean is just outside my front door.” ~ Lucinda Race 

Kathleen Lawless' Airstream Getaway

“Steel and I have a standing reservation, same-time-next–year-style at a rustic west coast resort, and we are always there for Summer Solstice. Except this year, as the place has yet to reopen. At first I was bummed—my time there pre-dates Steel, and over the years my son and daughter have secured their own reservations. Then I realized Steel and I could go some place different, some place we wouldn’t normally explore. So we took a chance and checked out a new resort with totally private restored Airstream trailers on a wooded acreage. We had a blast. And next year we’ll be back to the old favorite. But what a great opportunity to shake off the comfort zone. Other than that, we stay home in the summer. We love it here!” ~ Kathleen Lawless

“I plan to spend my summer at home, reading, basket weaving and working on my diamond painting kits. My publisher is battling cancer right now, so my new book release has been put on hold and I'm currently not writing as I work through the issues of being blind in one eye and working with some program to help me with writing. Alabama is really hot during the summer so it is best to stay indoors with central air and work on projects that I enjoy doing.”
~ Constance Bretes

Liz Flaherty's Sunrises/Sunsets

“Summer vacation of 2020 is destined to be the season of moments. We saw part of our family on Father's Day. We'll see a grandson walk for high school graduation in July. We've stared in awe at sunrises and sunsets. There has been new pleasure in cooking and contests with ourselves to keep from gaining weight from said cooking. I've read three books in the last week. We're experiencing leisure in a new way. As we speak of new normal, we also enjoy new happy. One moment at a time.”
~ Liz Flaherty

“The summer of 2020 for me will be filled with mostly one thing: WRITING I have BROKEN DREAMS, Book 4 of my Storms of New England series coming out in August and have all the prep work to get it there. I am also planning to rerelease my first series, Love on the Line, early next year. We've got new covers, tweaked stories, and books 4, 5, and 6 added to the mix. Work, work, work! But I may (yeah I will) take a little time to visit my kids and snuggle my adorable grandbabies!”
~ Kari Lemor 

“What Are My Summer Plans? We’re supposed to have summer plans? To tell the truth, I’ve been ensconced in this house for so long, I forgot we used to do things, go places. I will, however, go to the family cottage at the lake and get in some quality cool breezes. If they ever lift the restrictions on traveling between Provinces, I might even drive my grandchildren to Cape Breton Island to see their grandfather. Other than that ... I’ll be working on the next story in my Lusty Liaison's Series. At least I have air conditioning!” ~ Nancy Fraser

“Oh, the best laid plans of mice and men. Summer of 2020 is a total gamechanger. On the positive side of things, lockdown gave me time to get things done I've been putting off for years. I've cleaned closets, decluttered tabletops, and donated clothing not worn in years. I've injected new life into old manuscripts. What I value most is reconnecting with old friends. I finally have time to talk and not text. I can send those delayed handwritten notes. I have the time to really be a friend. Best of all, staying home means more time to write.” ~ Marcia King-Gamble

“This summer we’re planning a road trip with 2 little boys to a Gold Rush town in the mountains in the interior of British Columbia. A ferry trip and 8 hour drive. Sounds easy, right? But not in the time of Covid-19. There’s a lot more to do to prepare: checking for hotels that’ll take us, places to eat that’ll take us and even whether the roadside rest areas have open washrooms. No promises made to those little boys, but we’ll try! Everyone needs something to look forward to, now more than ever. Wish us luck…” ~ Bonnie Edwards

“This summer is all about the “staycation” for our family. Mr. H and Darling Daughter, plus the three crazy hounds. LOL Everyone together, which is simply fine by me. I’m super-busy writing now. And we have a new vegetable garden! Lots to keep me busy through the long hot days.” ~ Kathryn Hills

Okay, it's your turn to join the conversation! Add your comments below or send via email through the "contact us” link on the bottom of the left sidebar. You can also make suggestions on what you'd like to discuss here in the future.

Thanks for joining us!

 ~ The Romance Gems ~

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Pushing My Luck by @SatinRussell #RomanceGems

This Friday, I’m flying to the West Coast to give a presentation to the San Francisco RWA chapter. I’ve given this talk before, but this is the first time I’ve had someone pay for me to fly across country.

Needless to say, I’ve been excited to go. That is, I was excited up until about two weeks ago…

With all the news about COVID-19, I have to admit, I’ve been questioning whether I should make this trip. It wouldn’t be such a concern, except Northern California and the Bay State Area happen to be one of the hot spots in our country right now.

I’ve been doing everything I can to read up on the subject to try and figure out what is fact and what is hype. My research shows that things are just starting to heat up in the States. We’re not in full-swing, pandemic mode yet.

I have a friend who lives in the city that registered for the course I’m giving. I asked him what it was really like over there and he said not much has changed. People seem to be taking it all in stride.

Most of the experts have been saying you can mitigate the risks if you wash your hands and don’t touch your face. However, being cramped in an airplane with lots of people still seems like a bad idea.

But I want to go!

And I already paid for the non-refundable hotel room to stay an extra day.

And I have plans to hang out with friends…

My husband has been giving me side-eye about this trip for nearly two weeks because of this damn disease. And I really can’t blame him. Contrary to what some officials say – this is NOT the flu.

I’m hoping that I can get in and get out before things really start to heat up. Unfortunately, I do have a friend who is immune-compromised. So, for her sake, I will be avoiding her for at least two weeks after I get back. Just in case.

All of this is to say – WISH ME LUCK!

(I’m gonna need it.)

Hey! You know what’s great to stock up on for the impending quarantine? Books!

Liz Harper has some pretty rotten luck in the beginning of the book, but it turns out all right for her in the end. Pick up your copy of Secret Need today!

How about you? Are YOU feeling lucky? If so, be sure to enter our March Rafflecopter Contest for a chance to win one of TWO Amazon gift cards.

For more details, check our MONTHLY GIVEAWAY page.

Adventuring – A Timeless Victorian On Cape Cod by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

Highfield Hall and Gardens, Falmouth, Massachusetts, Jan. 2020

I get around. *chuckle* Ask anyone who knows me, and they’ll tell you I’m always crying, “Road trip!” Big cities, tiny towns, especially historic locations. One of my favorite things about being a writer is the inspiration I gather from the many places I explore. Is it Wanderlust, a popular term, meaning a strong longing for or impulse toward wandering? That’s exactly what it is. But I say, “adventuring.” And whether I’m alone, with friends, or with family, I LOVE adventuring! I reside in New England and hitting the road in my old Honda CRV is my favorite way to see this diverse and beautiful region. So, come along. First stop, Cape Cod, Massachusetts!

Nearby Woods Hole Harbor

Simply called “The Cape” by locals, the famous hook-shaped peninsula is home to quaint towns, stalwart lighthouses, great seafood, and quintessential New England views. (The Cape is 65 miles from Woods Hole to Provincetown, including Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape) We’re heading to Highfield Hall and Gardens in Falmouth, (Upper Cape) and the setting for my first book, Haunting Highland House.

Even in winter, Highfield Hall and Gardens is an enchanting and inspiring location. The mansion itself - a Queen Anne stick-style Victorian built in 1878 - so sparked my imagination it launched my debut novel and a book series. I discovered it by chance over a decade ago, yet one visit changed the course of my life.

Highfield Hall seen through the Stickwork sculpture
of artist Patrick Dougherty, Jan. 2020

Want some backstory? Once the summer home of wealthy Bostonians, the estate passed from owner to owner, serving as everything from a hotel to a school for theater students. Eventually, it fell to ruin and became the town’s derelict or haunted house. Right there. First clue why this place piqued my interest. A group of concerned citizens stepped in just before the historic mansion was set to be demolished and the property developed for housing. Today, the old house stands beautifully restored, transformed into a cultural center for the community, including a summer stock theater, gardens, walking trails, and conservation land. It’s a restoration success story. I’m a sucker for a happy ending!

Upper Cape beach in winter

During my first visit to Highfield in 2008, I couldn’t help but wonder… What would it be like to live in this place, now and during its heyday back in the late 1800’s? Wouldn’t it be amazing to experience both times? Maybe as the caretaker? If you’ve read my Time Traveler’s Journey Series, you know where my vivid imagination ran with this idea. The house I dubbed Highland House plays an active roll throughout my books. Learn more about how the real mansion became a central character by visiting my Author Notes.

Stickwork by artist Patrick Dougherty
Front lawn, Highfield Hall, Jan. 2020

Visit Highfield Hall and Gardens to find upcoming events, programs, and to explore additional history. You can plan your own adventure and fall in love with this timeless place.

See Falmouth’s Chamber of Commerce for ideas on visiting the Upper Cape any time of the year.




Thanks for reading! Until our next adventure,

~ Kathryn 

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Salem, MA – Not Just A Bunch of Hocus Pocus by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

The first day of autumn, my favorite time of year! And the unofficial kickoff of the Halloween season for many. The epicenter of Halloween in New England is Salem, Massachusetts. However, you might be surprised to learn this paranormal/fantasy romance author doesn’t only visit when October rolls around. Why? Because Salem has much more to offer, and it’s year-round.

Historic Homes - Salem, MA

First and foremost, the beauty and history of the city draws me there. Nestled on the rocky coast north of Boston, Salem is sadly most famous for the witch trials of 1692. Yet there’s a rich seafaring history, museums, historic mansions, literary notables, even a pioneer village. Everything from pirate lore to America’s oldest candy company—things most don’t expect to find.

The Friendship - Historic Salem Harbor

I’ve been fortunate to be there on glorious summer days when kids are playing on Salem Common and families are enjoying the Friendship—a tall ship in the harbor. Dogs are everywhere since it’s a pet-friendly city. I’ve attended conferences and events at the lovely Hawthorne Hotel—one of my favorite haunts—waking on Sunday mornings to the sound of church bells. The hush of snow brings a blanket of white to the twisty turny old streets. (The holidays are an excellent time to visit Salem!) From interactive theater and fine dining to shopping, and historic house tours. And, YES, there’s a bunch of spooky fun to be had! Something for everyone and all ages in Salem, MA.

I LOVE Halloween, and Witch City is a blast in October! But don’t hesitate to visit other times of the year. You’ll be missing out.

I asked some friends to share their favorite things about the city. Here's what they said...

Meet Macey Jennings, a Massachusetts-based actor, writer, and historical interpreter who has always been fascinated with the educational power of storytelling. She’s been a company member of History Alive, Inc. for four years as an actor and tour guide; “Homestead” marks her debut as a playwright.

Visit www.historyalivesalem.com for shows & times

“My favorite thing about Salem is the community and how passionate they are about what they do. So many who live and/or work here (not just in tourism) have a passion, and they're dedicated to spreading their wealth of knowledge, whether it relates to art, local history, modern witchcraft, social advocacy, etc. It's part of the reason I originally wrote "Homestead;" I spent three years gathering information on the traditions and folk beliefs that contributed to the Salem Witch Hysteria. By creating this 17th-century time capsule for audiences to explore, I combine my love for theatre with Salem's history.”

The Witch House - Salem, MA

Judith Sterling is a tour guide at The Witch House (the 17th-century home of witch trials judge Jonathan Corwin) and an author of medieval romance, young adult paranormal fantasy, and metaphysical nonfiction. She’s traveled the world yet chooses to live and work in Salem. “I felt drawn to this place—even as a little girl living in Florida—and somehow knew I’d end up here. I adore The Witch House and The House of the Seven Gables, where my husband works. We and our twin boys live right by the Common, and every day as I walk through it, I relish the fact I’m treading the same ground as centuries’ worth of Salem residents, including Nathaniel Hawthorne. The past is alive here. You can see it in the architecture and feel it in the air, for the energy is both eclectic and electric. And yes, many of my experiences are supernatural.” Check out Judith's blog post about paranormal activity in The Witch House and learn more about Judith Sterling's Books.

Historical actress and writer Jennifer Emerson is newly arrived in Salem. “It’s the perfect city for adventure. Very walkable with stunning architecture. The culture of acceptance here is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Though interest in my family connections to the Witchcraft Hysteria of 1692 led me here to do research, there is so much more astounding history to be discovered. And, any Foodie will find their fill in Salem.

Presented by Intramersive Media

“Of course, many do come here because they are drawn to 1692, the world of the unseen, or the macabre. Long after the trials, Salem broke ground on helping occult matters come out into the light of day. Whatever folks come for, many seek an immersive experience. One of the shows I am currently in rehearsals for will deliver just that. Daemonologie: Smoke & Mirrors (presented by Intramersive Media and produced by Creative Collective with the generous support of the Peabody-Essex Museum) is set in 1849 at the dawn of the Spiritualist Movement. The audience are honored guests for a séance in the home of Monsieur Rene Levesque (the gorgeous Cotting-Smith Assembly House!). But all is not what it seems…"

So, there you have it. Time to plan your next trip!

None of my books are set in Salem, but I think that needs to change. They were, however, inspired by other historic locations in New England. Places you can visit!
Learn more about my books HERE

Thanks for reading!
~ Kathryn 

Kathryn Hills - A Time Traveler's Journey Series

For more on visiting Salem check out Things to do in Salem

Things to do in Salem

HURRY! Our September Giveaway ends Sept. 27th!

September Giveaway

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Kids are back to school. Now it’s time to pamper yourself a little.

Winner’s Choice of Amazon Gift Cards or Gifts for Reading and Pampering.

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I WILL TAKE IT WITH ME by Hannah Rowan #RomanceGems

Before the recent Romance Writers of America national conference in New York City, many authors were inundating Facebook with packing issues.  The conference officially lasted about four or five days, though some people came early or stayed late.  Still I was stunned by the lists of items people were reporting putting in their suitcases.

Some of the authors had shoes, shoes, and more shoes.  It sounded like they had entire suitcases just devoted to shoes.  And outfits for workshops, different outfits for meals, outfits for lounging, and really jazzy outfits for the awards ceremony.  I think several authors were lugging along more outfits than I own.

Now, when I’m travelling I admit I don’t get any sleep the night before because I’m obsessing over what’s in my suitcase.

I must have my teabags and my Splenda.  What if I get to a hotel—it’s been known to happen—and all they have is herbal tea or only one or two teabags in the room?  What a nightmare!

Since the invention of e-readers I no longer have to weigh down my luggage with books.  In the old days I had to make sure I had enough books to cover however much time I was going to be away plus several extra in case of emergency. This made for an extremely heavy suitcase even if I limited myself to paperbacks.

Now I also have my tablet loaded with e-books.  Lots and lots of e-books because I never know if I’ll be stranded somewhere and what if I run out of books?  And I lie in bed worrying about whether I remembered to pack my charger.

I toss a few paperbacks into my bag, just in case.

Then I have magazines in my carry-on if I’m flying.  It’s so satisfying to actually finish reading a magazine that’s been languishing on my coffee table for months and throwing it away, leaving room in my luggage for…well, probably for buying any interesting books I find while wandering the airport.

I generally fool myself into thinking that I’ll get some actual work done in my down time instead of ordering movies on the hotel TV.  So I must pack legal pads, notes, and possibly some research books I’ve been meaning to read more carefully.  And pens.  Many, many pens because what if I have an idea and I can’t write it down because my pen is out of ink?

My laptop goes into my carry-on bag as well, leaving very little room for anything else, but I do manage to squeeze in a mouse, and a back-up mouse, and batteries, and again, the charger.  Because I hate trying to respond to email on my tablet or my phone, and I kid myself into thinking I’ll use those notes and research books to do some actual writing.

Somewhere in there I might find space for a second pair of shoes, two or three t-shirts and a pair of jeans.  But only after I make sure I’ve got all the important stuff covered.

Don't forget to enter our August Rafflecopter Giveaway! We are celebrating The Dog Days of Summer with great prizes as well as free books. Check out our Giveaway Reach the entry form by clicking HERE.

End of an Adventure OR...?? by @KariLemor #RomanceGems

Many of you know I’ve been traveling in an RV the last five months with my husband. (If you didn’t know, check out my Instagram to see all the places we’ve been).  We’ve seen some really cool stuff and done exciting things! Part of the reason we went on this trip was to find a winter home. While living in New England has been a wonderful experience for us, we’ve gotten old and grouchy and really don’t like the cold or shoveling anymore.

Bridge of Lions

I had never thought of myself as a Florida person – my hair is too prone to frizz in the humid weather, but another southern place would be fine. Until we happened upon St. Augustine in mid-December. We absolutely fell in love with the town. Rich in history. Gorgeous architecture. Beaches. Shops. And the temperature in the winter was warm without being too hot. At the northeastern part of the state, it seemed ideal.

After touring the rest of Florida, Mississippi, New Orleans and then exploring the Bayous of Louisiana, we decided to go back to St. Augustine and check out real estate. Wow! Better than the prices in New England. But we didn’t want to make a rash decision. So we found this adorable apartment to rent. It’s over a hundred years old, was one of the original hospitals in town, and it’s on the beautiful Matanzas River (near where it empties into the ocean) a few steps from the Bridge of Lions. Sold! Or rented!

And as much as traveling was quite an adventure, I have to admit I’m ready to be in one place for a while. Ready to get back to a regular writing schedule that didn't get interrupted by driving to the next exciting place. Here’s a few things I’m looking forward to:

A REAL shower where I can stand up and don’t have to hold the nozzle or the water doesn't run out!  And an actual flush toilet!!  Woo hoo! That’s cause for celebration!

And I now have a full kitchen. It’s not huge but when compared to a stove and small sink next to the living room couch, yup, I’m stoked!!

Some might say it’s too bad my adventure has ended. But for me, this new amazing town, and the rich history and life here, plus being a full time author now, could be the beginning of a brand-new adventure!  

Let it begin!

CHECK below as Running Target and Fatal Evidence (Love on the Line) are currently ONLY 99c!!

Here’s where you can stalk me:

Website: https://www.karilemor.com/   *sign up for my mailing list to get up to date info or freebies*

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Amazon Author page:  https://www.amazon.com/Kari-Lemor/e/B00ON2YDI6/

Kensington Author Page:  http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/author.aspx/31828

Love on the Line – 3 books

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Line-3-Book/dp/B071NSM484/

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 

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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.

Isn't She Grand? by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

Snow swirls hypnotically across the windshield as we pick our way through Crawford Notch. And it strikes me… Isn’t it odd that we never visit this iconic location in good weather? I suppose “good” is the debatable word. After all, these are the White Mountains of New Hampshire in winter where snow is considered white gold.

Toasty-warm during the picturesque drive north (White Mountain National Forest is approximately 3.5 hours from Boston) I can’t help but touch the frosty windows as excitement has me fidgeting. One more turn and the road will widen. Then we’ll see her. Stark white and magnificent, topped with a shiny red roof. Distinct against the bluish-grey of the tallest mountain in the northeast. Our home away from home for a long winter’s weekend—the glorious Mount Washington Hotel!

The Mount Washington Hotel, Bretton Woods, NH

This marvel of modern ingenuity for its time (construction finished in 1902) was built by New Hampshire native Joseph Stickney, a gilded-age industrialist who made a fortune in coal and railroads. He spared no expense, from the steal and granite structure to the heating, plumbing, electricity, woodwork, and furnishings. Wealthy visitors flocked from northern cities to behold its grandeur (see the hotel’s link below for more history).

My first visit to the grande dame—now an Omni resort—was for a ghost-hunting/paranormal event in 2016, hosted by Strange Escapes. The founder of this unusual travel company, Amy Bruni, is best known for her role as an investigator and researcher on Syfy channel’s Ghost Hunters. My daughter and I were Amy’s guests on that occasion, along with over one hundred like-minded “escapees,” paranormal enthusiasts, celebrities, researchers, and other authors. The event was exciting, thought provoking, and it marked the beginning of more trips to haunted locations with the group. I highly recommend the experience if you enjoy exploring the unknown in style (see Strange Escapes’ link below).

Since then, I’ve returned to the Mt. Washington Hotel many times with family, friends, and my daughter for another escape. Simply put, we love the place! Yet what about this iconic location entices us and so many others to return? “It’s haunted, you know.” I can’t tell you how many have whispered those words to me. Followed by, “One time, when we were there…” and ghost stories gush forth. Few mention the luxury accommodations or spectacular mountain views first. It’s typically the thrill of other-worldly experiences coupled with the five-star resort. A close encounter with spirit on the way to the slopes or while filling your ice bucket? Yes! However, I’d say it’s more.

The Great Hall

I’ve been lucky enough to reflect while writing in the elegant Great Hall or slouched in a wicker chair in the garden corridor. Two of my “favorite haunts.” For me there is a deep sense of residual history. Feelings...impressions... Pride, joy, sadness, celebration, toil – the essence of past lives. The hotel is haunted, in my opinion, by Princess Carolyn, Joseph Stickney’s widow. But also, by those who have worked there and been guests. Souls who’ve left a mark—good or bad—which imprints on some guests today.

Charles Alling Gifford

One personal experience is the day I met the architect and builder of the Mount Washington Hotel, Charles Alling Gifford. I discovered his handsome countenance in a portrait, hanging in The Gifford Room. Tucked away in a discreet corner on the main floor, the door to his room was closed, yet I felt compelled to sneak in. I stood before him as seconds stretched into long minutes. Charles Gifford left his mark on me that afternoon, inspiring a character in my Time Traveler’s Journey Series. (Allen Whitman, the architect of Highland House) Call me crazy, but it was a profoundly haunting experience when Mr. Gifford stepped beyond the veil to spark a character.

Here’s a bit about Haunting Highland House
Psst…there’s a $0.99 Kindle sale currently on Amazon

She’s looking to escape her man troubles. Instead, she finds the man of her dreams. There’s only one problem. He’s dead.

Living in a haunted house and uncovering a gateway in time were not in the job description when Samantha Merrill agreed to be the property manager of Highland House. Old photos of the reclusive master of the manor captivate her, yet she’s terrified when he appears out of nowhere. How can Robert Pennington be making love to her by the parlor fireplace when he died over a century ago? Robert Pennington is a powerful industrialist charged with caring for an ailing father, a meddling mother, and two wayward siblings.

Weary of his burdens, he longs for change. Is he ready for a woman from the future? His disciplined world turns upside down when the mysterious Samantha Merrill crashes his sister’s birthday ball. He is wildly attracted to this intriguing beauty, but is it magic or mischief motivating her? When Sam vanishes before his eyes, he knows only one thing for certain. He wants her back.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the tale of my haunted love affair with one of New Hampshire’s grandest hotels. Maybe you have your own ghost story? I’d love to hear from you. And a great big thank you for visiting my first blog post with these awesome Romance Gems!

~Kathryn~

To learn more about me and my books, visit my website

Sources & Links

The Omni Mount Washington Hotel

Strange Escapes

YouTube of the Strange Escapes 2016 Mt. Washington Hotel event

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