From the Heart...Cheryl St.John

Change is Scary, but Good

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 15:44:00 +0000

I have always had a rule I teach and that we practice in my critique group: Don’t ever budge on that one element that excited you about a story in the first place. That spark that inspired you to write the story is what will carry you through the middle and to the end. Not all books are easy, even when you love your subject matter and characters, but books are double down hard to write if you lose the joy.

As writers, we do our best, but the lack of joy eventually shows in our work, our health, our personal lives. I had been under contract for over twenty-five years, writing two or three books a year, and everyone knows a career isn’t a writer’s only responsibility. Most of us have spouses, children, grandchildren and parents. I realized I needed a change.

By fate or a stroke of luck or God’s timing, whichever your belief, a line closed and I didn’t have an option book. I’d been in that place before and it had felt scary. This time it felt good. Like someone had taken an 800-pound boulder off my shoulders. And in this timing of events, I also had a new grandchild due.

To my daughter’s immense relief, I told her I’d care for the baby for the first year. I had a few weeks to decompress and prepare, and then the baby came. I had forgotten how exhausting it is to take care of an infant, but it was a good exhaustion, and I enjoyed every minute of it. After the baby was a year old, my daughter had a neck surgery, and I cared for both of them at their house every day, so this hiatus stretched into about sixteen months. During that time, I eventually missed writing. I got ideas. The desire was there to tell stories, but I knew I didn’t want to go back to where I’d been before. I wanted to write, but I didn’t want to experience the pressure of deadlines.

I made a decision to only write books that I love from that moment on. And to do it in a manner at and a pace that I set for myself. Choosing to make a change was a huge step. Indie authors don’t have the distribution advantages of traditional publishers. They don’t get advances. They do all the work. But they can choose to do the writing and marketing at a pace that’s comfortable for them, and there’s a lot to be said for comfortable.

Western Romance eBook on Sale for $1.99 - Prairie Wife

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000

No mother should have to bury her child

Amy Shelby had learned this sorrow well. Her heart had gone into the ground a year ago along with her boy's tiny casket. And not even her husband, Jesse, wrestling the same pain, could resurrect any hope in her.

Jesse Shelby mourned two losses—his baby son and his openhearted bride, for when their child died, Amy retreated behind a wall of grief as wide as the Nebraska prairie. But could a chance for a new family heal their wounded marriage—and guide them back to the comfort of each other's arms?

KINDLE eBOOK ON SALE FOR $1.99

March Madness: Maybe I'm the One

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Maybe I’m the One

Nashville fans will enjoy this story of a beloved country singer who returns to her roots and encounters the cowboy whose song she unknowingly stole.

Audrey Knox sacrificed to make a successful career in Nashville, but the bigger her star shines, the smaller her world has become. After an eye--opening incident on tour, she wants her daughter to experience small-town life as she knew it, so she takes a break from touring to reconnect with her roots and introduce the eight-year-old to life on Big Pines Ranch. Facing the past might be her biggest challenge yet.

Jericho Tanner has loved Audrey since they were children on adjoining ranches, their families entwined. He fills the void of intimacy, love and belonging with ranch work and his deputy position in Rockwell County, with aspirations of taking over as sheriff. Emotional vulnerability is frightening, and his walls are sturdy and tall. When Audrey and her young daughter show up in Spencer, he’s forced to see his wounds in a new light.

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USA Today bestseller Cheryl St.John writes historical and contemporary novels. Her stories have earned numerous awards and are published in over a dozen languages. One thing all reviewers and readers agree on regarding Cheryl’s work is the degree of emotion and believability. In describing her stories of second chances and redemption, readers and reviewers use words like, “emotional punch, hometown feel, core values, believable characters and real-life situations.”

March Madness Sale - Dancing in the Dark (Aspen Gold Series)

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 15:28:00 +0000

Dancing in the Dark, Cheryl St.John

He’d had his own baby. Without her.

Dusty Cavanaugh has loved Kendra Price since she walked into the school cafeteria and captured a dozen boyish hearts with the sweep of her stormy gray-green gaze and the lift of her chin. College, marriage, and children had been the plan. But then Dusty made a mistake.

Kendra Price had never wanted to be rich, but she’d wanted to be comfortable, which she was. She’d never wanted to be famous, but to live her passion to the fullest and dance, which she had. She’d wanted to marry Dusty, have babies and live happily ever after. All she had left was dance.

Sweet romance by a USA Today bestselling author

BUY LINK: CLICK HERE

MARCH MADNESS

All 21 books in this series are on sale for 99c throughout March.

Fans of Robyn Carr's Virgin River Series will enjoy this multi-author series set in the fictional tourist town of Spencer, Colorado.

Grandma St.John's Banana Bread

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 16:23:00 +0000

I've made this banana bread for as many years as I've been baking. (That's a whole kaboodle of years.) It's a family favorite. Some even enjoy it for breakfast.

Note: For shortening, I usually use olive oil. I've also used butter, and occasionally I use half butter or oil and half applesauce.

ONE LOAF:

1 3/4 c. sifted flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 c. olive oil
1/3 c. brown sugar
1/3 c. sugar
2 eggs, beaten
at least 2 bananas, mashed leaving chunks
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp orange peel

THREE LOAVES:

5 1/4 c. sifted flour
6 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp salt
1 c. olive oil
1 c. sugar
1 c. brown sugar
6 eggs, beaten
at least 6 bananas, mashed, leaving chunks
2 heaping tsp cinnamon
2 tsp nutmeg

1 heaping tsp orange peel

Walnuts or pecans are optional.
I often add craisins and chocolate chips, but most of my family prefers it without.

Mix dry ingredients and liquid ingredients separately and then mix together quickly.
Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes to one hour.
If you use a mini-loaf pan, reduce heat to 325 and baking time to 25 min.

Wrap or bag while warm to keep moist.

Freezes great so you can bake ahead.

FREE BOOK THIS WEEK: I Sorta Do, Cheryl St.John

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 21:28:00 +0000

Read an excerpt:

Once again, her impulsiveness had landed her in a jam. Francie Karr rifled through a stack of papers on her gigantic wooden desk and picked up the letter for the tenth time that morning. The official confirmation of her obligation to attend the class reunion. She’d placed the irksome reminder on the edge just so, in case her cat took a notion to jump up on the desk and bat the paper into the wastebasket. He hadn’t. The traitor.

She’d used the envelope postmarked Spencer, Colorado as a coaster for the better part of a week before piling invoices on top of it, but the return address still remained legible.

No, the letter was still here and she hadn’t forgotten about the impulsive promise she’d made, so she guessed she was going to have to send the reunion committee an email about her arrival plans. She’d first ignored the group Facebook message from the planning committee requesting she be the photographer for Spencer High’s fifteenth class reunion. She’d asked if they didn’t have a local photographer, but the relentless social media members had been adamant it be someone from their class, so she’d grudgingly agreed.

What had she been drinking? She’d known then, just as she knew now, that she wasn’t going to be able to attend the class reunion. She was going to have surgery that week. Or something else was going to come up. A debilitating sickness maybe. Perhaps even a death—her own would be convenient.

The intercom buzzed her that someone was downstairs, and she walked distractedly to the panel, the wrinkled letter in her hand. “Yeah?”

“Miss Karr, it’s Ryan MacNair. I’d like to speak with you for a few minutes, please.”

“Who?”

He repeated his name and added, “We spoke last month. About the brooch you had appraised? You told me to call back at a more convenient time.”

“Oh.” She glanced around the cluttered loft where she lived and worked. Photographs hung on every wall—some were even framed. Stacks of books teetered on end tables, and every pair of shoes she’d worn recently were beside the sofa. The place wasn’t going to suddenly become neat and organized, and the time never got more convenient, so she might as well let him in.

“Come on up.” She jabbed the button that unlocked the security door and sauntered back to her desk.

How hard could it be to fake her own death? She’d seen it done on TV plenty of times. She could assume a new identity and move her studio to Peoria under a different name.

Francie flopped onto her office chair and grimaced at her own thoughts. No. YaYa needed someone to check up on her often and make sure the care center was doing a good job. Deserting her dear fragile grandmother was out of the question. It distressed the old woman enough to think Francie wasn’t married yet. Disappearing was a purely selfish thought. Self-preserving and really clever—but selfish.

How on earth then was she going to get out of this dreadful class reunion? What was she going to tell her grandmother? YaYa was the only person in the world she was close to. The only person whose opinion mattered. But YaYa didn’t agree with Francie’s decision to choose a career over a marriage and children.

A few months ago, to alleviate the old woman’s worry over her being alone, Francie had told her she’d gotten married.

To a rich man.

To a rich man with kids.

To a rich handsome man with kids.

How in blazes was she going to get out of this one?

A knock sounded on the door.

Francie crossed to open it.

“Hi, Miss Karr—”

“Francie.”

“Francie. Thank you for seeing me.”

She swung the door open wide and ushered a tall dark-haired man in a tailored navy-blue suit into her studio. “Would you like a soft drink? The coffee’s been sitting since morning.”

“No, thank you.”

“Well…” She wandered back to her desk chair and sank onto the comfortable cushion, her gaze immediately landing on the letter that still lay on her desk. Darn cat anyhow. Darn YaYa for thinking a woman couldn’t be fulfilled with her career.

“I have an offer for you,” MacNair said. He glanced around, then moved a stack of manila envelopes from the seat of the chair opposite her desk to the only available spot on the floor and plucked the crease at the knee of his trousers as he sat. “Are you moving out?”

“No, why?”

“Um, no reason. Do you recall why I’m here?”

Absorbed in her predicament, Francie tapped a fingernail against the edge of the desk. The reunion was less than two weeks away now, and she still hadn’t figured out what she was going to do.

“Francie?”

“What? Oh. No, I guess I’ve forgotten what it was you wanted to see me about.”

“The brooch you had appraised at Grambs & Sons last month.”

“Right. That pin was in a box of old junk that I bought at an auction. I buy things like that for my still life photography. The piece will make amazing shot in black and white, with maybe a pair of gloves. Kind of draping out of an old jewelry chest with a piece of lace beneath it.”

“Several months ago, I put the word out to all the jewelers that I was looking for that particular item,” he said. “Grambs called me after you’d been in. That brooch rightfully belongs to my daughter. It’s her inheritance.”

She’d found the perfect pair of old lace gloves. What had she done with them? “Uh-huh.”

“It belonged to my paternal grandmother. Unfortunately, my grandfather’s will was contested, and the jewelry went to one of my aunts who only wanted what she could get out of everything. Just to be spiteful, she wouldn’t even let my father buy the pieces he wanted. I can’t even remember why she started the feud with my father in the first place. I’m not even sure she remembers.”

“She sounds lovely.” Francie picked up a pen and doodled a sketch of her idea on the letter.

He blinked at her. “She sold it all, and we’ve been trying to find the pieces to buy them back. My father had intended for that brooch to remain in the family.”

Francie’s attention drifted to Peyton Armbruster’s scrawled signature on the page, and Francie knew she couldn’t stall any longer. She either had to come clean...or come up with a husband.

“The brooch was appraised at five thousand dollars,” MacNair said. “Miss Karr, I’ll double that offer.”

At his concerned tone, Francie glanced up into his grave features, and finally his words sank into her dilemma-drugged brain. He was as intense about the silly old brooch as she was about taking a husband to the reunion.

For the first time she took a long assessing look at Ryan MacNair. His dark hair, bearing a distinguishing widow’s peak, was neatly styled and brushed back from a square-jawed face. Dark brows were divided by a V of anxiety that didn’t diminish his well-bred features. The dude was impressively handsome.

He had a nice straight nose and an interesting mouth that could probably slide into a knockout smile if he’d loosen that tie and give himself a little air. His navy suit and cranberry silk tie were of the best quality and taste, and he wore them with ease and panache. He was rich. Not her type—if she had a type—but wouldn’t he impress the Spanx right off her classmates back in Spencer? And YaYa wouldn’t be able to stop smiling. She imagined her grandmother looking him up and down with approval.

"You planned to use the brooch in some photographs," he said. Have you done that?"

“Are you married?”

He blinked, his warm brown eyes showing confusion over the abrupt change of subject. “I’m divorced,” he said finally. “Is that relevant to the discussion?”

Actually, a discussion took two people, but she spared him that reminder, and let the ever-turning gears in her mind whirl with possibilities. “I’m just beginning to sympathize with your situation, Mr...”

“MacNair.”

“Mr. MacNair. I’d certainly feel bad if something of my grandmother’s was sold off against my wishes.”

He nodded, his brow still furrowed. “Then you’ll sell it to me?”

“You really want this brooch, don’t you? It means a lot to you. And to your father.”

Still his carefully guarded expression didn’t change. “Yes.”

“So, I guess my decision carries a lot of weight.”

“It does,” he admitted, though his aggravated expression showed his reluctance to do so.

Francie smoothed the letter, refolded it and placed it inside the stained and warped envelope. “Perhaps we can negotiate after all.”

He gave a shake of his head. “Money isn’t the issue here. The brooch has sentimental value. Ten thousand. Fifteen.”

“No. Not more money,” she said with a flick of her hand. “In fact, if you agree to this idea, you can keep your money.”

His frown deepened. “What idea?”

“I’m in a predicament myself. I’m afraid I’ve done something—said something—impulsive, and now I don’t have any way out of it. Except maybe through you.”

He raised one dark brow. “I don’t understand. What does your predicament have to do with me?”

“I told my grandmother that I’d gotten married.”

“And that’s a problem?”

“Yes, it’s a problem. It wasn’t true. It isn’t true.”

“You told her you were married?”

She nodded.

“But you’re not married. And you weren’t married.”

“Right.”

“Then why did you tell her that?”

The question was so simple. The answer was so complicated. “Because I’m not.”

He stared at her.

“It’s a long, boring story,” she supplied. “Maybe sometime we’ll go over the details, but for now I’ll just say I had my reasons.”

“So, you lied. And now this lie is causing you a problem.”

“Oh, yeah. A super-sized problem.” She stood and walked restlessly to the row of tall windows and gazed, unseeing, down on the street

“What does your lie have to do with me?”

She turned back. “I’ve been cornered into participating in my class’s fifteen-year reunion in my hometown. YaYa is expecting me. And she’s expecting me to bring a husband.”

With a wary expression, he waited for her to speak.

“You can have the brooch...”

He leaned forward in the chair like his Spidey-senses were on alert.

“...if you come to Spencer, Colorado with me as my husband for a week.”

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Abby’s Second Chance by Lyn Cote

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Abby’s Second Chance

Book 2 of “The Preacher’s Daughters” series by Lyn Cote

Contemporary Christian Romance

Their chance at first love slipped through their fingers—now a second chance, will they let their attraction grow to true love?

Abby Kirkland, a successful fundraiser for a big city botanical garden, faces a life-changing decision. In order to make the right choice, she visits her beloved great aunt in Florida. Will she have to upend her life? Then unexpectedly she crosses paths with Dr. Marco De Palma. She knew him at university in Florida, almost a decade ago.

Marco never thought to meet Abby again. Even though now he is a MD, the chances of a lady like her falling in love with the son of immigrants from Santa Domingo still looks impossible to him. And besides, he has a goal he must achieve for the good of many and that needs all his attention. No time for love.

Yet as they work together on a charity project, they can't deny the re-igniting of their connection. Will old insecurities and mistaken perceptions keep them apart again? Or will they finally believe that they too have a right to a second chance at love?

An emotional sweet romance with the promise of a happily ever after you’ll savor by USA Today Bestselling Author of over fifty romances. Available to read free on Kindle Unlimited.

GET YOUR COPY NOW!

USA Today best-selling author of over 40 books, Lyn Cote writes award-winning contemporary and historical romance. Her brand is "Strong Women, Brave Stories."

Visit her website/blog at http://www.LynCote.com and sign up for her newsletter. Also look for her on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

Are We As Kind to Ourselves As We Are to Others?

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Mon, 29 May 2023 14:21:00 +0000

DEFINITION: Nurture as a verb: care for and encourage the growth or development of. "Janet was nurtured by her parents in a close-knit family." (used with object), nurtured, nurturing, to feed and protect: to nurture one's offspring; to support and encourage, as during the period of training or development; foster: to nurture promising musicians. To bring up; train; educate. Nurture as a noun: the process of caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something.

When we think of nurturing, we most often think of adults caring for offspring or a horticulturist looking after a new hybrid plant. It’s difficult for many adults, especially busy or career-minded ones, to consider how well they’re nurturing themselves. Most of us have become the nurturers. We’ve devoted ourselves to children, adult children, grandchildren and our aging parents. We take care of our homes, our lawns our pets. Sometimes nurturing ourselves only amounts to eating as healthy as possible considering our time and budget, or picking up the latest craft book and a new pen.

When we nurture others, we give the very best of ourselves. Our kids get thoughtful gifts, our time and energy, and we take our senior parents to visit the sites that bring them fond memories. But how are we nurturing ourselves with the very best support?

There are plenty of meaningful ways we can nurture ourselves, not only as artists, but as human beings. A well-rounded life is one in which you are as important as others. Buy yourself something impractical, simply because it brings you joy: A new purse, a pair of leather gloves, a teapot and a collection of teas. Splurge on new bedsheets and enjoy them every night. Order a music device and subscribe to music that makes you happy. Buy a sticker book and give yourself a fun sticker every time you take care of yourself. Buy something off your wish list simply because it’s fun or beautiful. Read a book you’ve been wanting to read -- or read your favorite book again.

The older I get, the more I have learned to make use of the best things I own. Use the good towels. Wear the expensive perfume every day. Burn the pretty candles. Put out the good dishes. Buy the yummy coffee. Use the Colors of Kindness Crayons because they’re cool and you can.

Make a note in your planner to have lunch with a friend once a month. You’d be amazed how uplifting this is, and how you will come away refreshed. Call a parent, a cousin or an aunt or uncle every Sunday evening for a month.

And don’t forget this vital encouragement: Talk to yourself the way you’d speak to a loved one. “You missed the mark this time, but you can do it; Tomorrow is a new day; Sleep on it and start fresh; Forgive yourself; You’re doing the best you can; I love you and I care.”

If we don’t foster, encourage and support ourselves, how can we expect to flourish and grow? Each one of us deserves the very best self-care we can give ourselves.

~*~

In describing Cheryl’s stories of second chances and redemption, readers and reviewers use words like, “emotional punch, hometown feel, core values, believable characters and real-life situations.” Amazon and Goodreads reviews show her popularity with readers.

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/cheryl-st-john

Like her Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/CherylStJ

Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/y6js92y8

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/cherylstjohn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_CherylStJohn_

Blog: https://cherylstjohn.blogspot.com/

Stand in the Sun - Elle Stephens

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 18:30:00 +0000

Coming home was never the plan.

Lexy Cartwright has managed her social anxiety just fine since leaving her small hometown. But when she loses her job and moves back in with her mother, she finds it the same as the day she left: same places, same gossip, same panic-inducing people. Realizing it might be the only way to get her meddling mother off her case, she agrees to one tiny blind date. After all, how hard could an hour in the middle of a Tuesday afternoon be?

Smart, handsome, Simon Barnes, was the town’s most eligible bachelor, and Lexy’s high school crush. How was she to know he’d secretly had a crush on her too? Now, Lexy must choose between her secluded and safe lifestyle and navigating the relationship minefields to find the love, friendship, and family that she has locked out for so long.

"Emotional, smart, and at times laugh-out-loud funny"

"Elle Stephens takes troubled yet lovable characters through realistic issues with charm and wit. A thoroughly enjoyable read. Treat yourself to this story. - Cheryl St.John

STAND IN THE SUN print is on sale for $5.69.

That's a 53% savings.

GET YOUR COPY NOW - CLICK HERE

ebook also available

MARK IT "TO READ" ON GOODREADS

Elle Stephens resides on a farm by a small town in North Central Kansas with her family and a myriad of animals.

Reading has always been an essential part of her life. She loves to write poems and journals and short stories. Now, in between taxiing her children to their various activities, and managing the family businesses with her husband, she writes contemporary women's fiction, romance novels, and fantasy.

Besides reading and writing, she enjoys several creative hobbies, including nature photography, drawing and painting, baking, gardening, and soap-making. She loves giving gifts and believes the best ones come from the heart. Whether a picture or a pan of cinnamon rolls, gifts made with love touch people in ways greater than anything purchased in a store.

Chasing Dreams - Cheryl St.John

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 15:52:00 +0000

I planned this new release after Christmas while a lot of people are still home and enjoying their holiday and possibly their new eReaders. This is such a busy time of year, and in my family we have birthdays from November to January, multiplying the gift giving, the gatherings and the cakes.

Working to be outside the norm, we celebrated my granddaughter's 13th birthday last evening with Buffalo Wild Wings and a cake created from donuts. (She's a Stranger Things fan, so that's why you might not recognize the decoration.) Tomorrow is my daughter's birthday, so I'll be whipping up her favorite angel food. We will do anything for family, won't we?

The same goes for my character, Shaine, who has lost her sister, but now believes her nephew is still alive. The things Shaine dreams come true--and she has been dreaming that little Jack is still alive. She searches out the only person who can help her--but he has made a life for himself that doesn't involve searching for missing people. She is determined to find her nephew, so what's a girl to do?

A tormented man driven to seclusion…

A relentless beauty who won’t take no for an answer…

Shaine Richards’ sister and nephew were in a car that went off a bridge into the river. Maggie’s body was the only one recovered. Searchers said Jack could have been snagged below or washed up anywhere. But when Shaine dreams of the toddler, he’s alive.

Therapists advise her to let go.

She’s tried to let go. But the dreams won’t let her.

Shaine knows Jack is alive and something terrible is about to happen to him.

The only man who can help her doesn’t want to be found—or involved. Austin Allen is a man who knows and sees more than most people will in their entire lifetimes. His mountain sanctuary is key to self-preservation. His gift holds the answers she needs. She must convince the enigmatic man to help before it’s too late.

But there’s another dark and mystifying complication...

Shaine has dreamed of Austin as well.

Two more birthdays next week, and on to New Years. Hubby and I plan to stay home and chill. I'll read a book! How about you?

You can get a copy of Chasing Dreams at your favorite retailer.

CLICK HERE

Winter Wonderland Inn: Merry Mayweather

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 16:48:00 +0000

Come visit the Winter Wonderland Inn and get wrapped up in the holiday season.

This will be Noelle’s first Christmas alone with her younger sister Adrianna. When the manager of the Winter Wonderland Inn says she can bring her sister to work for the season, she knows it will be a holiday that will heal her sister's tender heart.

Kristopher, with a K, wants to sneeze every time he hears the jingle of holiday bells. The self-proclaimed grinch would prefer to stay in the comfort of his home and eat prepared meals until people settle down from the holiday madness. The only thing that can pull him out of his house is a phone call from an ailing uncle.

Kristopher's grumpy heart doesn't stand a chance when he joins forces with Noelle to make it a Christmas worth remembering. She's hoping the small town holiday season will bring him a gift he'll cherish long after the calendar page is turned.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

If you are looking for a feel-good, happily ever after, small-town experience, I have a story for you. When I write my romance novels, the characters are inspired by the people I see on a day to day basis. Up here in what I like to call the far, far north, people work hard, live fiercely, and love knowing that they have a community behind them. When I'm not writing, I'm testing out an adventure that will end up in a book or trying a character's favorite recipe.

Christmas in the Air, sweet, small-town romance

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 18:12:00 +0000

What if you told your innermost secrets to a guy you assumed you’d never see again?

Penelope Reid owns a toy business, and meets an elusive, handsome stranger on a plane trip to Hilton Head Island. Along the way, she confesses her problems and fears, her aspirations, and unrealized goals, while she believes the man is only half-listening. She is a single mother in her late 40s, readjusting to her life after a difficult divorce, and raising a challenging twelve-year-old son.

Two months later, she comes into direct contact with Jacob Williams, the new pediatrician in town, and the man she met on the plane. Jacob knows many facts about her life. Will he use his knowledge to embarrass her, or pursue her?

As Jacob and Penelope get to know each other, Jacob relates his story—his poverty-stricken childhood, his mother’s disapproval when he left the family farm, and his recent job.

She is touched and impressed by his new goals to forego his ambitions and help people. And she is a bit envious he has decided what he wants and is going after it.

Things can only take a turn for the worse when their romance begins to develop, all under the disapproving eyes of her critical son and the small, inquisitive community who thought they knew her.

Her son is begging for a snuggly puppy for Christmas. But is he ready to assume the responsibility? And does Penelope have room in her heart for a new romance and an adorable puppy?

If you like sweet romance movies and books, then you’ll love Christmas in the Air, brimming with heartwarming holiday cheer.

A Happily-Ever-After is guaranteed.

Wrap yourself up in the uplifting joy of Christmas and fall in love with sweet, small-town romance. This is the sixth book in the beloved 1-800 home-flipping series.

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Josie Riviera is a USA TODAY bestselling author of contemporary, inspirational, and historical sweet romances that read like Hallmark movies. She lives in the Charlotte, NC, area with her wonderfully supportive husband. They share their home with an adorable shih tzu, who constantly needs grooming, and live in an old house forever needing renovations.

Sealed With Courage: Laura Scott

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 15:10:00 +0000

Risking their hearts and their lives while protecting the innocent…

Will they find the kidnapped boy in time?

Sign language teacher Aubrey Clark feels responsible when ten-year-old Lucas goes missing. She’s determined to find her deaf student and knows more than she should from reading the lips of the man involved in the boy’s disappearance. Now she’s in the killer’s crosshairs too. Aubrey has little choice but to accept Navy SEAL Mason Gray’s protection, grateful for his help in searching for Lucas.

Mason’s last op as a Navy SEAL had gone sideways, leaving him deaf in one ear and hard of hearing in the other. But he’s not going to let his handicap prevent him and his K9 scent tracker, Bravo, from rescuing a deaf child. Mason has never balked at putting his life on the line for his country or to ensure the safety of women and children. But risking his heart? That wasn’t supposed to be part of the plan . . .

From USA Today Bestselling Author Laura Scott

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Laura Scott and is a registered nurse by day and an author by night. She's written 55 books for Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense as well as several indie series - Crystal Lake, Lifeline Air Rescue, The McNallys and Security Specialists, Inc. Laura Lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with her husband of 35 years.

www.laurascottbooks.com

When Characters Don’t Do What the Author Planned by Lyn Cote

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:30:00 +0000

What’s the author to do? To think? Well, usually I smile because that means that my characters have become REAL. Once a reader said to me, “You act like these characters are real.” And I said, “Within the pages of the book, they are!”

If my characters do not behave like real people with minds of their own, I haven’t done my work right. And readers will shut the book sooner than later. ‘-( I think it has to do with the working of my conscious and my unconscious mind not communicating till I’m actually writing!

Early in my writing career, I began a scene where are my heroine was to drive into town to visit her grandmother's grave at the cemetery. Imagine my surprise when she started driving toward the local nursing home to visit grandma. We wrestled with the steering wheel for a few moments and then I gave in. And she was right; grandma needed to be alive. She was a major mover in the story. But who knew? My heroine did.

For my latest story, Mavis’s Forever Christmas, I had provided a future hero for Mavis at the end of the previous book, Ellie’s Forever Family. But when I began to work on the new manuscript, Mavis rejected him. And insisted that she had someone different in mind. I was flummoxed. But I had learned by then just to give in to my character.

Mavis’s Forever Christmas is part of a group series called “Puppies for Christmas” novellas. Nine sweet romance authors wrote Christmas Novellas with puppies in them and we have released one a week from October 13 through the first week of December.

(The stories are not connected —but each has a holiday romance and one puppy or more.) My book Mavis’s Forever Christmas comes out the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, the 22nd. Here is the scoop.

Is falling in love only for the young?

Never married, Mavis, a retired college librarian, has made a new life for herself near her “adopted” niece Ellie. Over a year ago, John lost his wife, who was Mavis's best friend for nearly forty years. He has spent the months traveling with his trailer, trying to figure out this new life. But when his only daughter Ellie faces complications with a difficult pregnancy, he’s pulled back to her hometown.

Helping Ellie brings Mavis and John close once again, and new feelings and attractions spark. Maybe falling in love isn’t just for the young, but is it right? Or is it a betrayal of his late wife and her best friend? By a Carol Award-winning author, this emotional, small town, family drama will touch your heart. And an adventurous little puppy will make you smile. Here’s the link to click Only 99 cents.

BTW, Ellie’s Forever Family is half price $1.49 through Nov 30th. Click here for more info.

And I hope you’ll take a look at all these wonderful holiday canine stories! Click here for Ellie and here for all the puppies! Happy Thanksgiving!—Lyn Cote

When you spend Christmas in a castle, anything is possible.

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Readers looking for a light, fun read full of holiday mischief will be delighted by Samantha Hastings' A Royal Christmas Quandary, perfect for fans of A Christmas Prince and The Crown.

1860. Lady Alexandrina Gailey is looking forward to a cozy holiday at Windsor Castle with her best friend, Princess Alice, and her long-time crush, Lord George Worthington. But Drina's plans are all but dashed when Alice's parents, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, declare that Alice must choose one of two royal princes to become engaged to before Christmas.

There's just one problem: George, a junior member of the Foreign Office, has accidentally misplaced one of the princes.

Together, Drina and George scour the town of Windsor for the missing prince, desperately hoping to deliver him to the royal dinner party with the queen none the wiser. They might just need a royal Christmas miracle to pull it off.

DON'T WAIT FOR SANTA! GET YOUR COPY NOW

Praise for A Royal Christmas Quandary:

"A delightful, romantic romp of a book—perfect for readers who like their holiday romance to come with a sprinkling of royal glamour." —Rosalyn Eves, author of Blood Rose Rebellion

"A delightful foray into the Victorian era, A Royal Christmas Quandary will charm readers from page one. With endearing characters, a sweet romance, and fascinating details about Queen Victoria and the royal family, this story is sure to become a new Christmas favorite." —Joanna Barker, author of Otherwise Engaged

"An exciting and romantic romp through Victorian England. ... A delicious blend of history, humor, and romance." —Esther Hatch, author of A Proper Scandal

Samantha Hastings met her husband in a turkey sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, having tea parties, and chasing her four kids. She has degrees from Brigham Young University, University of North Texas, and University of Reading (UK). She writes cozy murder mysteries under Samantha Larsen.

Christmas Story! Love at First Step by Terri Brisbin

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 14:00:00 +0000

When Gavin MacLeod visited his English friends at Silloth Keep for the Christmas holidays, he is drawn to the intrigue surrounding a woman, a harlot, who arrived without any explanation other than her trade. But in trying to learn her secrets, he begins to fall in love with a young woman who is kind and intelligent and in need of a hero.

Elizabeth was sold to a brothel by a greedy husband trying to rid himself of a barren wife. Seeking only a place where she can survive, she never dreams that she might find a new life—and a new love—when a Scottish warrior comes to visit.

DON'T WAIT FOR SANTA. GET YOUR COPY NOW!

USA TODAY Bestselling author Terri Brisbin is a mom, a wife, GRANDMOM and a dental hygienist (in her spare time!) who lives in southern New Jersey. Terri has sold more than 3 million copies of her historical and paranormal romance novels, novellas and short stories in more than 25 countries and 20 languages around the world.

A three-time RWA RITA® finalist and award-winning author, Terri has been published by Berkley/Jove, Harlequin, Kensington Books, NAL/Signet and SMP/Swerve. Her new books will be published by Oliver Heber Books and soon by Dragonblade Publishing, too. In addition to working on more historical romances scheduled for release through 2024, she has re-published her earlier books!

3 Regency Christmas Romances!

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:25:00 +0000

An invitation to…Three seasonal, Society parties!

In Invitation to a Wedding by Annie Burrows, Clara’s immersed in a glamorous aristocratic wedding, but it’s captivating Lieutenant Hugo who sweeps her off her feet.

In Snowbound with the Earl by Lara Temple, Bella makes an unlikely ally of forbidding Lord Deverill to thwart an elopement – and gets stranded with him for Christmas!

In A Kiss at the Winter Ball l by Joanna Johnson, Maria’s rescued from a snowstorm by Viscount Stanford, and receives a life-changing invitation…

DON'T WAIT FOR SANTA! GET YOUR COPY NOW

RELEASE DAY - Christmas Promises Anthology - 3 Holiday Stories

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 14:53:00 +0000

Three novellas for your Christmas reading pleasure...

The Baby Contract--Cheryl St.John
She thought she knew what she was looking for…
until what she was looking for found her

She wants a baby. Piper Newport has made up her mind. It has always been only her and her Grandad, and she’s determined to have a family like others she sees in Pearl’s Café where she works. One little problem. There’s no man in the picture. She’s determined to find one, and it becomes increasingly clear—her closest friend is the best choice.

Kipp Hudson is an outdoor guy. A good son and brother. A fun-loving uncle to his niece and nephew. He owns and operates Hudson Outdoor Gear and is an avid camper and hunter. Kipp won’t damage his friendship with the petite blond waitress so he doesn’t wear his heart on his plaid flannel sleeve...but it beats for her.

The Eve Before Christmas--Bernadette Jones
Dreams can come true, on the eve before Christmas.

After taking a permanent position in Spencer, successful doctor Mitch Smith realizes there’s something missing. But with long hours in the ER, there’s no time left in his day to go looking. Frozen pipes in his new home, combined with a town crowded by the Christmas Festival, lead him to the last available motel room. He discovers his destiny waiting behind the reception desk.

Unwanted since the day she was born, Norma is rejected once again. Pregnant, she vows her baby will never feel unloved. Trying to make ends meet in Spencer leaves her exhausted and struggling. Until the holiday season brings more than a snowstorm. The support of a good man could change her life forever. Can she trust her emotions and allow the kindness of a stranger turn into an everlasting love?

A Perfect Snow Globe Christmas--*lizzie starr

Is there such a thing as a perfect Christmas?

To avoid a bleak holiday, Priscilla Van arrives at Spencer ready to start her new job. Little did she know, she'd end up helping with the Barlow triplets. Or that she'd find meaning and acceptance in a snowy Colorado town
.
A successful author and nanny (don't you dare call him a manny) to three adorable babies, Oakley Fifer has promised his fans a Christmas story. But he has no inspiration. Until the new Stick Pony Camp chef arrives early. The reserved woman ignites a wealth of ideas, and not just for his stories. Alone, neither expects much from the holiday, but together? It may just turn out to be perfect.

BUY NOW: https://amzn.to/3AycMx9
Please share!

#amreading #christmas2022 #amreadingromance #readingcommunity #books

Glazed Chocolate-Pumpkin Bundt Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:04:00 +0000

Glazed Chocolate-Pumpkin Bundt Cake

1 3/4 cups sifted flour

1 cup sugar

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/4 teaspoon Celtic Sea Salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 15-ounce can unsweetened pumpkin puree

3/4 cup dark brown sugar

1 large egg

1 large egg white

1/4 cup canola or virgin olive oil

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1 Tbsp pure vanilla

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 Tbsp buttermilk

2 Tbsp mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°F - Spray a 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray

Whisk together sifted purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, granulated sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice and salt.

Blend 1 cup buttermilk, pumpkin puree and brown sugar in a large bowl with electric mixer on low speed. Beat in whole egg and egg white. Stir in oil, corn syrup and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake 1 to 1 1/4 hours or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Remove from the pan and let cool completely.

Glaze & garnish:

Combine powdered sugar and 1 Tbsp buttermilk in small bowl, stirring until smooth. Place the cake on a serving plate and drizzle the glaze over the top; garnish with chocolate chips or chopped nuts while the glaze is still moist.

I have a whole STACK of gorgeous Bundt pans!
They make beautiful cakes.

ORDER A NORDICWARE CHIFFON BUNDT PAN FROM AMAZON

After years of being asked for recipes, I spent a summer writing down ingredients and baking times, baking and asking for beta testers in order to put together this collection of mouthwatering recipes for Bundt cakes.

Many of the recipes are labeled NO SKILL REQUIRED, indicating exceptional ease of preparation. If you don’t consider yourself a baker or if you’re an accomplished baker and simply want a quick recipe, you will find these cakes using box mixes are convenient and delicious. You don’t have to tell anyone you started with a mix—the cakes are so good that no one will guess preparation didn’t take hours. Bake with ease and enjoy serving a beautiful cake to family and friends.

My philosophy: Eat cake! It's someone's birthday somewhere.

ORDER ALL ABOUT THE BUNDT FROM AMAZON

It had always been a cryin’ shame their dreams weren’t compatible.

Small-town life was never enough for rodeo champion, Justin Cooper, but when he returns to Oklahoma to recover from an injury, Stevie Marshall catches his attention all over again. She’s still the prettiest girl in town, still rooted to the community, and still doesn’t share his passion for adventure.

Resistant to change, Stevie has never fallen in love with another, and she’s not about to fall for this handsome cowboy all over again. Her heart has taken too much of a beating to make the same mistake twice. This life wasn’t good enough for him last time.

Justin thought he’d rather fall off a bucking bull than face his feelings, but their close proximity challenges his thinking. Can blue ribbons and trophies stack up to a life with the hometown girl he loves?

This time the cowboy is going to hold on tighter than ever.

AFFILIATE LINK TO ORDER HOMETOWN GIRL

COVER REVEAL & PRE-ORDER TODAY! CHRISTMAS PROMISES

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 14:21:00 +0000

Three novellas for your Christmas reading pleasure...

The Baby Contract--Cheryl St.John
She thought she knew what she was looking for…
until what she was looking for found her

She wants a baby. Piper Newport has made up her mind. It has always been only her and her Grandad, and she’s determined to have a family like others she sees in Pearl’s Café where she works. One little problem. There’s no man in the picture. She’s determined to find one, and it becomes increasingly clear—her closest friend is the best choice.

Kipp Hudson is an outdoor guy. A good son and brother. A fun-loving uncle to his niece and nephew. He owns and operates Hudson Outdoor Gear and is an avid camper and hunter. Kipp won’t damage his friendship with the petite blond waitress so he doesn’t wear his heart on his plaid flannel sleeve...but it beats for her.

The Eve Before Christmas--Bernadette Jones
Dreams can come true, on the eve before Christmas.

After taking a permanent position in Spencer, successful doctor Mitch Smith realizes there’s something missing. But with long hours in the ER, there’s no time left in his day to go looking. Frozen pipes in his new home, combined with a town crowded by the Christmas Festival, lead him to the last available motel room. He discovers his destiny waiting behind the reception desk.

Unwanted since the day she was born, Norma is rejected once again. Pregnant, she vows her baby will never feel unloved. Trying to make ends meet in Spencer leaves her exhausted and struggling. Until the holiday season brings more than a snowstorm. The support of a good man could change her life forever. Can she trust her emotions and allow the kindness of a stranger turn into an everlasting love?

A Perfect Snow Globe Christmas--*lizzie starr
Is there such a thing as a perfect Christmas?

To avoid a bleak holiday, Priscilla Van arrives at Spencer ready to start her new job. Little did she know, she'd end up helping with the Barlow triplets. Or that she'd find meaning and acceptance in a snowy Colorado town
.
A successful author and nanny (don't you dare call him a manny) to three adorable babies, Oakley Fifer has promised his fans a Christmas story. But he has no inspiration. Until the new Stick Pony Camp chef arrives early. The reserved woman ignites a wealth of ideas, and not just for his stories. Alone, neither expects much from the holiday, but together? It may just turn out to be perfect.

PRE-ORDER NOW: https://amzn.to/3AycMx9
Please share!

#amreading #christmas2022 #amreadingromance #readingcommunity

The Writing Process: Birthing a Book Baby, Sharee Stover

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

I liken writing to having a baby. Stay with me here…

Having three wonderful children, I’m well acquainted with the delightful series of events from that first “we’re having a baby!” moment to holding my precious gift from God. And I can attest to that fact that it is not instantaneous. Rather, there are nine (or less) months of waiting, hoping, planning, and expecting. In the same way, from the time an idea is conceived in my mind to the day I hold that printed copy in my hands, there’s a lot of waiting, hoping, planning, and expecting. For me, that all starts with what I like to call the Ugly Baby draft.

I know, all babies are beautiful. The same is true with writing. My book babies, as I lovingly refer to them, all started with Ugly Baby beginnings.

The Idea

The idea phase is where an event, a location, a news story, whatever, has brought a hint of something bigger to fruition. I might spend years, months, weeks, or days allowing this idea to brew, develop, and come to life. I’m getting used to the notion of this new addition to my book family and preparing for the arrival. The writing process is as unique to the authors composing the story as the story itself. For me, ideas often begin with the crime. It’s my favorite part of the story. But crimes are just events, so they must come to life with the characters involved in the mystery of solving them.

The characters

Characters develop via different means. Sometimes a name suggests the perfect hero, heroine, or villain. Or a picture of a model, actress, or even a friend.

Sometimes the characters remain unnamed until I get to know them more because just as naming a child is important—it sticks with them the rest of their lives—so is naming the characters that will live in this story. I love unique names, but that can stall a story if a reader is unfamiliar with the pronunciation. I also check to see if there are any infamous real-life people with the name. And the meaning of the name plays a role, too.

I’m a huge fan of the One Stop for Writers online program and I use it especially for the character development of my hero, heroine, and villain. If I’m writing a series, I will develop the other characters too.

No wimpy heroes or heroines for this author. They’re strong, brilliant, and skilled, but they have quirks, of course. And the villain. Ah yes. He or she must be fully rounded, matured and credible. One doesn’t wake up determined to commit heinous acts, they believe their cause is legitimate and necessary.

The story

I enjoy research and oftentimes, get stuck in rabbit holes that may or may not have anything to do with the story. However, it’s not a one-and-done kind of thing for me. I might stumble across an interesting fact and will research throughout the story’s development.

As the saying goes, location, location, location, is huge. Wilderness and country settings are at the top of my list. I often use the area where I live as well as places I’ve visited, which might require a road trip, because I must visualize the scenery. This isn’t always possible, but when it is, I take the opportunity.

Now we’re ready for the synopsis

I use my personal template, created from various brilliant craft sources and based on the hero’s journey. A fully fleshed out synopsis is essential for me. There are days I feel creative and days I so DO NOT feel creative. So, the synopsis acts like a compass and road map, drawing me back to where I need to be and providing the necessary details for the story. But friends, it’s not a pretty one. In fact, I often write what I call Ugly Baby.

So here we are! We’ve had our time of expecting, hoping, and waiting. NOW it’s time for Ugly Baby to appear. This is not for the faint of heart. Just sayin’.

Birthing Ugly Baby

Ugly Baby is the—pardon the expression—word vomited version of the story. It’s the roughest, ugliest spewing of words where I’ve ignored my internal editor and pretended not to see the horrible grammatical errors.

Wash Ugly Baby

Once the story is drafted, I go back and begin the first line of edits. I will make two or three passes through the story from start to finish, so this is where I clean up those ugly, flat, scenes and give them life. I’ll start adding essentials to the characters and oftentimes, it’s where I learn something about them that I’d not known at first. But we know it’s not the finished product. We’re just cleaning ugly baby.

Make him pretty by diapering and dressing him

At the final pass, I’ll go through and run each scene through ProWritingAid. Another fabulous writer’s program that catches things like repeats, overused words, grammar, and cliches. It too, polishes the draft so Ugly Baby is as cute as he can be.

Listen to the baby

A baby’s cry says so much, and mothers often learn the differences between cries. This is true of Ugly Baby too. I listen to the book, using my Kindle or Microsoft Word to read it back to me. A lot of people say this seems unnecessary, but studies have shown our brains fill in missing words within sentences. Thus, I find audio edits especially helpful in catching my mistakes or repetitions. It’s also a great place to replay dialogue to ensure it’s not stiff and unbelievable.

Now Ugly Baby is ready to see the world. He’s been washed, diapered, and dressed. He’s been heard and taken care of!

_______________

Following the clues could be the last thing they do…

Temporarily working in the cold case division was supposed to mean less danger for state trooper Trey Jackson and his injured K-9 partner, Magnum—until they thwart an abduction. Now he must protect profiler Justine Stark, even as she blames him for her friend’s death ten years ago. Can he right past wrongs by finally solving the murder…and making sure Justine lives to find closure?

From Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

FREE WITH AMAZON PRIME

BUY COLD CASE TRAIL

______________________

Colorado native Sharee Stover lives in Nebraska with her real-life-hero husband, three too-good-to-be-true children, and two ridiculously spoiled dogs. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to transform, ignite and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense and the delight of falling in love all in one. When she isn’t writing, Sharee enjoys reading, crocheting and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. Visit her at https://www.shareestover.com/.

Behind the Scenes in Movies and Books

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The most recent behind the scenes I've watched are Jurassic World: Dominion and Spielberg's Westside Story, filmed in Brooklyn. Fascinating! Of course I watched Westside Story again to see the places they used. I loved all of the recent Paul McCartney documentaries, listening to how a genius songwriter came up with one iconic song after another. Songs that were the backdrop for generations of music lovers.

I’ve seen every King Kong movie there is, and Skull Island is my favorite. You can google the behind the scenes info:

https://youtu.be/2zaaGw_9Ixs

Tom Hiddleston behind the scenes!

https://youtu.be/o7vdjxDDGag

Kong's "performance" and 17 million hairs!

Obviously some of my favorite shows are the programs on how movies are made. It used to be all we ever saw were director's cuts or bloopers at the end of videos, but the Internet has made behind the scenes accessible. Those looks into the development of a movie always leave a big impression on me. Sometimes after learning how over budget a production is, or the how the blue screen effects were done, I go see the movie just to find out how the finished product came out. Even if I don’t have the slightest interest in a movie in the first place, after I watch one of those programs, I have to see how all the special effects and the computer imaging and fake rain and snow and all that stuff came together into 90 minutes of near-perfect cinematography and sound and lighting. The process absolutely intrigues me.

Did you know that in Gone With the Wind, during the scene where Scarlet walks among the wounded soldiers on the battlefield, if one slows the film enough and knows where to look, Judy Garland, dressed as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, can be scene peeking around the backdrop? They were filming side by side on the same sound lot.

I’m an Avatar geek (impatiently awaiting the new one! I just saw the trailer in the theater), and the CGI technology is one of the most amazing things I’ve seen done in film—that anyone has seen done to date. I had to force myself not to buy the second release with extra footage, because I already owned the first version. When there are no behind the scenes extras on a DVD I’ve purchased, I feel cheated--and you don’t get those features buying amazon movies or watching them on Netflix. So I still purchase DVDs here and there just for those.

Even seeing a movie first and then watching the how-to program fascinates me, but I’d rather know the behind the scenes first, for some reason. Then I can sit and pick out all the places where I know they did a particularly wonderful job—or had an especially difficult time.

When we’ve finished watching a new movie, my husband cringes, because he knows I’m going to go into the menu of a DVD or online and watch the behind the scenes trailers and clips. I’ve learned a lot by seeing how scenes are created and changed and how actors get into the roles of their characters. I think one reason why that intrigues me so, is because everything that looks so polished and perfect in the finished product, was actually grueling, laborious, often times FRUSTRATING work behind the scenes.

I remember for example, in the making of the original Jurassic Park, every time that huge tyrannosaurus—the one that broke through the fence and came after the kids in the car—every time it got wet in the rain scenes, the mechanical parts stopped working. The crew would have to stop, dry it down, wait, and start over. Hours and hours and hours, and in some cases DAYS of painstaking work just getting a few perfect shots.

It’s not so unlike what we writers do. Other writers and all the readers see us with our good clothes on, our hair fixed, attending meetings and conferences, and book signings, with stacks of the glossy finished product in front of us. But how many hours of unglamorous work went into the finished product? I hate to even think how much I’ve made an hour on some of my projects, because when I think about it too hard, the more difficult it is, the more time it takes. And the more time it takes, the less I’m making per hour.

Finished books can represent years. They also often represent other projects that fell by the wayside in between. Not every book that a writer proposes sells. I know a lot of authors who claim they sell about one out of every three stories they come up with.

A book takes anywhere from a few months to several months to complete. Some writers take a year or more. And those words don’t flow out of our brains in perfect order. Great scenes don’t just happen without plotting and planning and playing with dialogue. I usually write a story from beginning to end. I’m a very linear writer. But sometimes I have to go back and add things I belatedly realize are needed. Many authors write in layers, with dialogue first and then go back to add body language and setting. Others write scenes out of order and then connect them like a puzzle. It always amazes me how the process differs with each person—and with each book. I don’t write every book the same way. And then there’s the middle muddle, and all kinds of things that can get a writer off track.

I’ve never asked other writers about this, but most often my books leave an impression on me—an imprint of what was happening in my life at the time it was written, be it good or bad. I remember which book I was writing when something significant happened in my life. While we’re bringing characters to life, we’re simultaneously living life.

I think I can imagine what it’s like when the director, producer and crew of a movie watch their finished product for the first time. They remember how that scene came off beautifully after the boom was repaired or how amazing it is that a shot was edited to remove a dog that shouldn’t have been there. And then I imagine they look at the film with fresh eyes and marvel at how all the parts and players came together in a satisfying and rewarding piece of work.

That’s how a book feels, too. Satisfying and rewarding, even though I know all the things that happened behind the scenes. I consider myself one of the most fortunate people in the world to be doing what I love and getting paid for it. Seriously, how many people can work in their jammies if they want to?

Do any of you enjoy seeing behind the scenes as much as I do?

Escaping With Her Saxon Enemy: Sarah Rodi

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Escaping With Her Saxon Enemy is set on the shores of 9th century England. Viking shield maiden Svea Ivarsson would far rather face Saxon warriors than be on the run with the fiercely captivating Lord Ashford Stanton, protector to the Saxon king. But when they are ambushed while leading the royal convoy through the forest, they find themselves separated from their captured men. Ash learns how Svea has been mistreated by men, and he wonders if the same evil blood flows through him. He realises he must keep his true self hidden, but finds it increasingly hard to keep his distance. This scene is when they share their first kiss...

EXCERPT:

He lifted a hand to peel a wet strand of hair away from her face. ‘It’s the same reason I fought those men yesterday. You want to know something about me? Something truthful? I couldn’t bear the thought of any man touching you, Svea, unless that man was me. And now I really want to kiss you, if you’ll let me...’

Her blue eyes were huge, and she looked so beautiful. She was trembling, but he wasn’t sure if it was because of the cold, or because of what he’d said. She hadn’t moved or said a word, so he moved closer to her, his chest almost touching hers...

‘Svea, say something.’

‘I—I’ve never done this before.’

Ash’s hands came up to cup her cheeks, his large thumbs caressing the corners of her lips, and he pressed his body gently against hers. Every part of him. She felt the instant flicker of excitement.

‘It’s all right. I’ll coax you through it.’

His dark, heated gaze was fixed on her and his movements were slow, as if he was giving her time to say no, to change her mind, and she felt her legs tremble hard. But, for the first time in her life, she knew she wanted this to happen.

Smoothly, reverently, he pulled her face towards him, lowering his head at the same time. Her eyes fluttered shut as he covered her lips with his.

His cool, salty skin was at odds with the warmth of his mouth, and as his tongue swept inside hers she gasped at the thrilling and tender feelings rushing through her body.

Her knees buckled, she began to sway, and he caught her with his arm, hauling her closer. As his silky hot tongue delved deeper, rolling over her like the ocean waves, drawing her in, pulling her under, sending searing heat charging through her, she curled her toes into the sand. His other hand trailed down to brush over the sensitive skin on her neck. His thumb was at her throat, circling her pulse, and an insane need lanced her.

She had never imagined a kiss could feel so good, sending signals to every part of her body, telling her she wanted more. And it was as if Ash could read her mind, because his hand drifted down to cup one full, heavy breast in his palm and she moaned. She’d thought she’d never allow a man to touch her again, but as he gently kneaded, softly squeezing her flesh through the wet material, she welcomed the sensations he was creating. And as he twisted and teased the hard peak, his lips still ravaging her mouth, a low moan escaped from her throat and her head tipped backwards.

He took a moment to stray from her mouth, his lips roaming down her neck, kissing and licking, tormenting her with his clever tongue, moving to the base of her ear, all the time whispering how beautiful she was. Then he came back to her lips again, claiming her mouth once more.

Her thoughts flashed back to the kiss she had given him in the field—and how he’d said it had cured him. This was the same for her. His kiss was giving her confidence, telling her that she could do this. That she was healed. Needing to prove it—to herself and to him—she bravely pressed her hips closer, letting him know that she wanted this. That she’d meet him halfway.

Her fingers were trapped between their bodies, and she splayed them out against his solid chest, wanting to explore. She glided them upwards over his smooth, firm skin, to curl around his neck, her fingers delving into the wet hair at the base of his neck. She was drawing him closer, pushing her tongue into his mouth to deepen the kiss.

He growled, his careful control seemingly about to break. And his response delighted her. She’d finally done it. She’d broken his steely resolve. Feeling triumphant, she recklessly writhed against him, wanting to cause more of a reaction.

He gathered her closer, his hands drifting down her back and cupping her bottom, tugging her against him, and then his fingertips dipped lower, to the bottom of the tunic, swirling over the backs of her thighs. They travelled upwards, beneath the material, seeking out her most intimate places...

And she panicked. ‘Ash, stop!’

With a violent shove she pushed him away, fiercely removing herself from his hold. Her actions were so sudden they shocked them both.

Her face flushed, her hair disheveled, she couldn’t bring herself to look at him. She felt so ashamed. Instead, she grabbed up her dress from the sand and ran.

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I loved writing this book about Svea and Ash. Carly Byrne at Mills & Boon said: 'The chemistry between your two protagonists is absolutely scorching! It’s impossible not to love Svea, and be captivated by her journey towards acceptance and happiness. Similarly, Ash was the perfect hero for Svea, completely trustworthy of helping her work through her complex emotions, but conflicted himself by all the pain he has experienced. It makes for such a fiercely compelling read with such a joyous payoff.' I hope you enjoy it too...

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Visit www.sarahrodi.com

A Match for Bernadette: Parker J Cole

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Pinkerton Matchmaker series tells the stories of Pinkerton agents who are forced to wed their trainees! Love, mystery, and suspense combine in each book. The series spanned more than 70 stories from about twenty to twenty-five authors. A Match for Bernadette is a spin-off of the Pinkerton Matchmaker series. In that series, I wrote five of the books – An Agent for Arielle, An Agent for Brielle, An Agent for Camille, An Agent for Danielle, and An Agent for Brutus.

In A Match for Bernadette, the Women’s Division of the Pinkerton Agency has been closed for two years. Marianne Gordon, who once acted as the secretary for the agents, has found she misses the life, and decides to use Pinkerton precision to start a mail-order bride agency.

Obeying the final wishes of her dying mother, Bernadette Hicks travels to Denver, Colorado to become a mail-order bride. Plagued by grief for the only man she will ever love, she doubts marriage is the right path for her. Imagine her shock when she arrives and finds her true love alive and well!

Instead of a joyful reunion, Bernadette is dumbfounded to discover that Big Tom, known now as Flavius Stone, wants nothing to do her. What will it take to figure out why the love of her life says he no longer loves her? She can see it in his eyes that he’s lying. Will a miracle bring him around? Is there anyone who can help her figure out why he is denying his love for her?

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Parker J Cole is an author, speaker, and radio host with an obsession with the Lord, Star Trek, K-dramas, anime, romance books, old movies, speculative fiction, and knitting. An on and off Mountain Dew and marshmallows addict, she writes to fill the void the sugar left behind.

Visit her website

Writing Basics: Creating Tension In A Scene - Cheryl St.John

noreply@blogger.com (Cheryl St.John) — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Creating Tension In A Scene

Tension is what keeps the reader turning pages. Caring about what happens to your character is the most important hook a writer creates. There must be something happening and something at stake in every scene. Because of the importance of pacing, tension isn’t appropriate for every scene. We need peaks and valleys. Our audience must be able to recognize the calm spots in order to recognize high intensity.

It’s important to build traits into the characters that will lead to trouble in important scenes. Impetuousness, independence, pride and naiveté are all qualities that can get your character into jams. Make the character’s conflict an inherent part of him. Starting with solid conflict assures tense scenes will occur throughout the story.

Set up the tension. Keep saying “No” to your character. Whatever it is he wants, hold it back. Don’t try to fix things--that comes later. Much of the time I don’t even worry how I will fix a problem. If I don’t know, I can usually figure I’ve kept the reader guessing. The best conflict is that which appears unsolvable, so heap situations on your story people so they can prove their mettle. Don’t make their situation easier, always make it more difficult.

Look at your character’s goals and ask yourself, “What’s the worst thing that could happen?” Then take the worst thing a step further. For emotional intensity, conflict should be directly related to the character’s internal goals and to their backstory. Don’t rely on “incidents” to carry scenes or conflict. Heaping one calamity after another can end up leaving the reader breathless and without direction. By an incident, I mean something that could happen to anyone and doesn’t really have emotional importance to this particular character.

Here’s a simplistic example: A torrential thunderstorm with hail that destroys property or crops would be devastating for anyone. But if your character’s goal is to become a success by growing the largest tomato for the state fair, and her parents died when a storm washed out a bridge when she was young, you’ve got the basis for a tense scene.

Jayne Ann Krentz once suggested that in pivotal scenes you should think “larger-than-life, emotion and contrast.” A plot is basically a series of pivotal scenes that will cause your two main characters to confront each other frequently on an intense emotional level. Arrange these scenes in your story so that they escalate in terms in intensity.

Leaving details about the character in question is an effective way to intrigue your reader. Don’t fill in all the answers, but give them enough so that they’re not frustrated. With most techniques, what to use and what to omit is a balance, one that depends on your story and your characters.

You can’t leave out something and then just throw it in at the end because it needs to be told or because it’s the end of the book. You must make the reader want to know the information by planting a seed, alluding to this mystery and using it as a teaser. Like this line: “She hated funerals.” Someone dies, but your heroine won’t go to the services. The reader is left knowing there is a reason and wanting to know the reason. The lure of the unknown draws the reader further and further into the story. Revealing too much takes away the seductive lure of discovery.

The reader must know something is missing. We don’t want to make him feel as though he’s had something pulled over on him once the story ends. We don’t want him surprised that something is revealed, we want him surprised at what that revelation is.

Another approach is the Hitchcock technique: Let the reader know something that none of the story people know. This is successful because it keeps the reader guessing when the character will find out and how they will react.

In a romance, love scenes are action scenes, and if you’ve kept sexual tension high throughout the first chapters, the reader is eagerly awaiting this scene. If the love scene happens at the end of the book, it’s a resolution--by now the hero and heroine have realized they love each other and are culminating their physical relationship. All external conflicts should have been tied up by this time.

If a love scene takes place before internal conflict is settled, as a plot point or as an added dilemma, then you must follow the scene with a new problem or hook or story question that keeps the story moving. If tension is allowed to be dropped, your story will stop moving forward.

The classic example, of course, is where the hero/heroine declare their love, everything seems blissful, and then one of them discovers some truth about the other that pushes them apart again. This is used so much in books and movies because it works so well, but it’s always fun to think up something new, so give freshness another thought when you’re plotting.

Change is what keeps the reader turning pages: New challenges, new information, new twists and added complications.

Backstory in a scene of tension slows the pace. Save it for sequels and then use only sparingly. If you need to reveal information, you can do it through a quick flash of internalization or a secondary character’s dialogue.

Hint at things to make the reader want to know.

Keep the reader wanting to know more.

In a faster-paced scene avoid speech tags and use action instead. “I can’t take this any more!” James slammed his fist on the table.

Use shorter sentences, shorter paragraphs and clipped dialogue. This is not the time for descriptions or internalization or lengthy speeches. Use shorter, simpler words that don’t distract the reader from the action.

Don’t be wordy. Don’t echo dialogue with exposition. As you should always do, use specific adjectives, vivid nouns and strong verbs.

Use a hook at the end of a paragraph.

Use a hook when you switch point of view.

Use a hook at the end of each scene.

And of course, use a hook at the end of each chapter.

How is this done? Say something or allude to something that makes the reader ask herself “Why?” Make her want to see a character reaction. Make her want to find out what happens next.

Keep the reader in suspense and expecting by not giving answers. Present questions and give just enough information to keep the story moving forward. If you do answer a question, then it should be information that only opens up a bigger question.

As a rule, don’t end a scene with hope or acceptance or resolve--those are for internal narrative or decisions. Do end the scene with a story question, worry, pain, anger, frustration or a negative reaction. Our goal is to keep the reader turning pages because he has a question, is engaged and wants to see what happens next. Tension is the state of excitement, nervousness or concern over the outcome that doesn’t allow the reader to relax until he gets to the end.

Wrap it all up at the end. Don’t leave any loose threads and show your reader a satisfying conclusion. We don’t like tension in real life. We want to experience all the chaos and drama through our characters’ viewpoints and know that in the end everything will turn out all right.

Writing With Emotion, Tension, and Conflict: Techniques for Crafting an Expressive and Compelling Novel

Today's highly competitive fiction market requires writers to imbue their novels with that special something - an element that captures readers' hearts and minds. In Writing With Emotion, Tension & Conflict, writers will learn vital techniques for writing emotion into their characters, plots and dialogue in order to instill that special something into every page.

"...essential knowledge and practical exercises which combined, create a tool-kit that no aspiring author can afford to be without. Everything you need to write your novel can be found in these pages."

- Kelly L. Stone, author of THINKING WRITE: The Secret to Freeing Your Creative Mind

Wow! Where was this book when I started my writing career?

"A must-have compilation of rock-sound advice from a writer who knows what she's talking about. A book you'll want to inhale whole and then return to time and time again to improve your craft and go deeper in order to write YOUR story. Not only does this book embrace some of the most complex elements of story construction in a clear, easy to digest format, it acts as inspiration for the writer. Sentence upon sentence of outstanding advice!"

- Mary Buckham, author of the Amazon best-selling WRITING ACTIVE SETTINGS series for writers.

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"I've been a fan of Cheryl St.John's fiction for years. She's a master of emotional stories. And with this book she passes on those skills to both new and seasoned writers."

- Holly Jacobs, author of Steamed: A Maid in LA Mystery

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