Classic Romance Revival

Two Lips Reviews gives 'The Snow Bride' 5 Lips & a 'Recommended Read'

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsay Townsend) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:14:00 +0000

I'm thrilled by this latest review of 'The Snow Bride' from Mac at TwoLips Reviews:

I was completely enraptured by The Snow Bride. It’s the best story I’ve read in quite some time. Ms. Lindsay Townsend creates scenery so vibrant I thought I could touch the mistletoe and freeze from the cold. Magnus became a beautiful knight in spite of his scarred face and maimed body as I saw him through the eyes of the heroine. His spirit of kindness and self-sacrifice made me believe he had a heart as big as the sky. I fell in love with him.

The heroine Ms. Townsend created was the kind of woman who could heal a broken heart and mend a wound with her unusual abiding kindness and devotion. She had a steel spine and courage but wisdom enough to listen to the voice of reason. The Snow Bride has everything a reader could ever want in a story: romance, intrigue, redemption and adventure. Ms. Townsend’s wonderful book, The Snow Bride is not to be missed. I could turn around and read it all over again. - Mac

(Five Lips, Recommended Read)

Release Day! AN INHERITANCE FOR THE BIRDS

noreply@blogger.com (Linda Banche) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:01:00 +0000

My latest Regency comedy novella, An Inheritance for the Birds, the next entry in The Wild Rose Press's Love Letters series, is now available. All the stories start with a letter that changes the hero's and heroine's lives. Mine is a letter about an inheritance, but there's a catch...

Available at The Wild Rose Press.

BLURB:

Make the ducks happy and win an estate!

Mr. Christopher "Kit" Winnington can't believe the letter from his late great-aunt's solicitor. In order to inherit her estate, he must win a contest against her companion, Miss Angela Stratton. Whoever makes his great-aunt's pet ducks happy wins.

A contest: What a cork-brained idea. This Miss Stratton is probably a sly spinster who camouflaged her grasping nature from his good-natured relative. There is no way he will let the estate go to a usurper.

Angela never expected her former employer to name her in her will. Most likely, this Mr. Winnington is a trumped-up jackanapes who expects her to give up without a fight. Well, she is made of sterner stuff.

The ducks quack in avian bliss while Kit and Angela dance a duet of desire as they do their utmost to make the ducks--and themselves--happy.

EXCERPT:
Yawning, he shut the door behind him. Enough ducks and prickly ladies for one day. After dropping his satchel by the bed, he dragged off his clothes and draped them over the chair back. He dug a nightshirt from the valise and donned the garment before he blew out both candles.

Bates had already drawn back the bedclothes. The counterpane was soft under Kit's palm, and covered a featherbed. He grinned. By any chance, had they used the down from the pet ducks to stuff the mattress and pillows?

After tying the bed curtains back, he settled into the soft cocoon and laced his fingers behind his head. Tomorrow, he would have it out with Miss Stratton about the steward's residence, but that was tomorrow. He fluffed up his pillow and turned onto his side…

"QUACK!"

A bundle of flapping, squawking feathers exploded from the depths of the covers and attacked him. Throwing his arms over his head for protection, Kit fell out of bed. He scrambled to his feet and bolted for the door, the thrashing, quacking explosion battering him. A serrated knife edge scraped over his upper arm. "Ow!" Batting at the avian attacker with one hand, he groped for the latch with the other.

The door swung open. Miss Stratton, her candle flame flickering, dashed into the chamber. "Esmeralda, you stop that right now!"

The feathered windstorm quacked once more and, in a graceful arc, fluttered to the floor.

Kit lowered his arms and gave a mental groan. A duck. He should have known.

Thank you all,
Linda
Linda Banche
Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!
http://www.lindabanche.com
http://lindabanche.blogspot.com

Warm Up Your Winter II - The Snow Bride' now at Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsay Townsend) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:52:00 +0000

She is Beauty, but is he the Beast?

Elfrida, spirited, caring and beautiful, is also alone. She is the witch of the woods and no man dares to ask for her hand in marriage until a beast comes stalking brides and steals away her sister. Desperate, the lovely Elfrida offers herself as a sacrifice, as bridal bait, and she is seized by a man with fearful scars. Is he the beast?

In the depths of a frozen midwinter, in the heart of the woodland, Sir Magnus, battle-hardened knight of the Crusades, searches ceaselessly for three missing brides, pitting his wits and weapons against a nameless stalker of the snowy forest. Disfigured and hideously scarred, Magnus has finished with love, he thinks, until he rescues a fourth 'bride', the beautiful, red-haired Elfrida, whose innocent touch ignites in him a fierce passion that satisfies his deepest yearnings and darkest desires.

Now out at Bookstrand Publishing 2011
Order here.

Now out at Amazon, too!
Buy the ebook:

Amazon Kindle (US)
Amazon Kindle (UK)
Bookstrand

Read Chapter One

Here is another new excerpt to tempt you:

Elfrida stirred sluggishly, unable to remember where she was. Her back ached, and the rest of her body burned. She opened her eyes and sat up with a jerk, thinking of Christina.

Her head felt to be bobbing like an acorn cup in a stream, and her vision swam. As she tried to swing her legs, her sense of dizzy falling increased, becoming worse as she closed her eyes. She lashed out in the darkness, her flailing hands and feet connecting with straw, dusty hay, and ancient pelts.

“Christina?” she hissed, listening intently and praying now that the monster had brought her to the same place it had taken her sister.

She heard nothing but her own breath, and when she held that, nothing at all.

“Christina?” Fearing to reach out in this blackness that was more than night and dreading what she might find, Elfrida forced herself to stretch her arms. She trailed her fingers out into the ghastly void, tracing the unseen world with trembling hands.

Her body shook more than her hands, but she ignored the shuddering of her limbs, closed her eyes like a blind man, and searched.

She lay on a pallet, she realized, full of crackling, dry grass. When she scented and tasted the air, there was no blood. She did not share the space with grisly corpses.

I am alone and unfettered. Now her heart had stopped thudding in her ears, she listened again, hearing no one else. Chanting a charm to see in the dark, she tried again to shift her feet.

Light spilled into her eyes like scalding milk as a door opened and a massive figure lurched across the threshold. Elfrida launched herself at freedom, hurling a fistful of straw at the looming beast and ducking out for the light.

She fell instead, her legs buckling, her last sight that of softly falling snow.

* * * *

Magnus gathered the woman before she pitched facedown into the snow, returning her swiftly to the rough bed within the hut. Her tiny, bird-boned form terrified him. Clutching her was like ripping a fragile wood anemone up from its roots.

And she had fought him, wind-flower or not. She had charged at him.

“I wish, lass, that you would listen to me. I am not the Forest Grendel, nor have wish to be, nor ever have been.”

Just as earlier, in the clearing where he had first come upon her, a brilliant shock of life and color in a white, dead world, the woman gave no sign of hearing. She was cold again, freezing, while in his arms she had steamed with fever. He tugged off his cloak and bundled her into it, then piled his firewood and kindling onto the bare hearth.

A few strikes of his flints and he had a fire. He set snow to melt in the helmet he was using as a cauldron. He swept more dusty hay up from the floor and, sneezing, packed it round the still little figure.

No beast on two or four legs would hunt tonight, so that was one worry less. Finding this lean-to hut in the forest had been a godsend, but it would be cold.

Magnus went back out into the snow and led his horse into the hut, spreading what feed he had brought with him. He kept the door shut with his saddle, rubbed the palfrey down with the bay’s own horse blanket, and looked about for a lantern.

There was none, just as there were no buckets, nor wooden bowls hanging from the eaves. But, abandoned as it surely had been, the place was well roofed, and no snow swirled in through the wood and wattle walls. Whistling, Magnus dug through his pack and found a flask of ale, some hard cheese, two wizened apples, and a chunk of dark rye bread. He spoke softly to his horse, then looked again at the woman.

She was breathing steadily now, and her lips and cheeks had more color. By the glittering, rising fire he saw her as he had first in the forest clearing, an elf-child of beauty and grace, a willing sacrifice to the monster. Kneeling beside her, he longed to stroke her vivid red hair and kiss the small dimple in her chin. In sleep she had the calm, flawless face of a Madonna of Outremer and the bright locks of a Magdalene.

He had guessed who she was—the witch of the three villages, the good witch driven to desperation. Coming upon her in that snowfield, tied between two trees like a crucified child of fairy, his temper had been a black storm against the villagers for sparing their skins by flaying hers. Then he had seen her face, recognized that wild, stark, sunken-cheeked grief, seen the loose bonds and the terrible “feast,” and had understood.

Another young woman has been taken by the beast, someone you love.

She—Elfrida, that was her name, he remembered it now—Elfrida was either very foolish or very powerful, to offer herself as bait.

Lindsay Townsend
http://www.bookstrand.com/the-snow-bride/

The Snow Bride - two lovely reviews!

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsay Townsend) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:21:00 +0000

She is Beauty, but is he the Beast?

Read Chapter One

Read Reviews:

The Celtic Rose

Ms. Townsend's tale of these two lonely people joining forces to track him to his lair is non-stop, rich and lyrical. Her voice is distinctive, her writing style a delight, and the ending is both satisfying and promising in that a sequel would be possible. 4 Celtic Roses.

Sizzling Hot Book Reviews

The Snow Bride is and entertaining medieval love story, one of my favorite kinds. I enjoyed that Magnus is willing to woo Elfrida by treating her as an equal, no matter how hard it is for him to do. They have their ups and downs as they learn each other, leading to confusion and doubt on occasion. Both are well rounded, sometimes stubborn and proud characters, and willing to give and take to work together to rescue Elfrida’s sister. I enjoyed the glimpses of life at a noble’s castle, the look at the peasant’s and villages life styles. The banter between Magnus and Elfrida was entertaining, as was the growing love between The Snow Bride and Magnus. 4 Hearts.

Buy the ebook:

Bookstrand

Lindsay Townsend

You Gotta Read Videos: December 2011 Entry #18 The Crown of Anavrea

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Rossano) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:27:00 +0000

You Gotta Read Videos: December 2011 Entry #18 The Crown of Anavrea:

Title: The Crown of Anavrea

Author: Rachel Rossano

Trailer Creator: Rachel Rossano

Blurb:

In a time when castles were the strongest...in a place where combat was face to face...Labren was on the run. He hid his true name and he admitted it freely.

In a time when slavery was legal...in a place where kings were all-powerful...Eve, a slave, appeared in the right place at the right time.

Eve saved his life. In return, he offered her the opportunity of freedom. She did not know what would happen to her if she chose to accept his proposal, but she did know the consequences of rejecting it.

Warm up your winter: 'The Snow Bride'

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsay Townsend) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 13:36:00 +0000

She is Beauty, but is he the Beast?

Elfrida, spirited, caring and beautiful, is also alone. She is the witch of the woods and no man dares to ask for her hand in marriage until a beast comes stalking brides and steals away her sister. Desperate, the lovely Elfrida offers herself as a sacrifice, as bridal bait, and she is seized by a man with fearful scars. Is he the beast?

In the depths of a frozen midwinter, in the heart of the woodland, Sir Magnus, battle-hardened knight of the Crusades, searches ceaselessly for three missing brides, pitting his wits and weapons against a nameless stalker of the snowy forest. Disfigured and hideously scarred, Magnus has finished with love, he thinks, until he rescues a fourth 'bride', the beautiful, red-haired Elfrida, whose innocent touch ignites in him a fierce passion that satisfies his deepest yearnings and darkest desires.

Coming Dec 27th from Bookstrand Publishing 2011
15% discount until January 3! Pre-order here.

Read Chapter One

Here is another excerpt to tempt you:

Magnus was worried. The fire he had made should have brought his people. It was an old signal, well-known between them. His men should have reached the village by now—that had been the arrangement. They were bringing traps and provisions in covered wagons, and hunting dogs and horses. He had been impatient to start his pursuit of the Forest Grendel and so rode ahead, returning with the messenger until that final stretch when the man turned off to his home. He had ridden on alone, finding the wayside shrine.

But from then, all had gone awry. Instead of the monster, he had found an ailing witch, and the snowstorm had lost him more tracks and time.

Magnus shook his head, turning indulgent eyes to the small, still figure on the rough pallet. At least the little witch had slept through the night and day, snug and safe, and he had been able to make her a litter from woven branches. He would give his fire signal a little longer and then return Elfrida to her village. There he might find someone who could translate between them.

Perhaps she did have power, for even as he looked at her, she sat up, the hood of her cloak falling away, and stared at him in return. She said something, then repeated it, and he drew in a great gulp of cold air in sheer astonishment, then laughed.

“I know what you said!” He wanted to kiss her, spots and all.

He burst into a clumsy canter, dragging his peg leg a little and almost tumbling onto her bed. She caught him by the shoulders and tried to steady him but collapsed under his weight.

They finished in an untidy heap on the pallet, with Elfrida hissing by his ear, “Why have you done such a foolish thing as to burn all our fuel?”

He rolled off her, knocked snow off his front and beard, and said in return, “How did you know I would know the old speech, the old English?”

“I dream true, and I dreamed this.” She was blushing, though not, he realized quickly, from shyness.

“Why burn so wildly?” she burst out, clearly furious. “You have wasted it! All that good wood gone to ash!”

“My men know my sign and will come now the storm has gone.” He had not expected thanks or soft words, but he was not about to be scolded by this red-haired nag.

“That is your plan, Sir Magnus? To burn half the forest to alert your troops?”

“A wiser plan than yours, madam, setting yourself as bait. Or had your village left you hanging there, perhaps to nag the beast to death?”

Her face turned as scarlet as the fire. “So says any witless fool! ’Tis too easy a charge men make against women, any woman who thinks and acts for herself. And no man orders me!”

Magnus swallowed the snort of laughter filling up his throat. He doubted she saw any amusement in their finally being able to speak to each other only to quarrel. Had she been a man or a lad, he would have knocked her into the snow, then offered a drink of mead, but such rough fellowship was beyond him here.

“And how would you have fought off any knave, or worse, that found you?” he asked patiently. “You did not succeed with me.”

“There are better ways to vanquish a male than brute force. I knew what I was about!”

“Truly? You were biding your time? And the pox makes you alluring?”

“Says master gargoyle! My spots will pass!”

“Or did you plan to scatter a few herbs, perhaps?”

He thought he heard her clash her teeth together. “I did not plan my sickness, and I do not share my secrets! Had you not snatched me away, had you not interfered, I would know where the monster lives. I would have found my sister! I would be with her!” Her voice hitched, and a look of pain and dread crossed her face. “We would be together. Whatever happens, I would be with her.”

“This was Christina?”

“Is Christina, not was, never was! I know she lives!”

Magnus merely nodded, his temper cooling rapidly as he marked how her color had changed and her body shook. A desperate trap to recover a much-loved sister excused everything, to his way of thinking.

She called you a gargoyle! This piqued his vanity and pride.

But she does not think you the monster, Magnus reminded himself in a dazzled, shocked wonder, embracing that knowledge like a lover.

Lindsay Townsend
http://www.lindsaytownsend.net

noreply@blogger.com (Phoebe) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 21:07:00 +0000

Halloween Listmania features ten spooky books, each 99 cents, suitable for YA, described as bewitching offerings from 10 authors whose credits include Kindle Bestsellers, Romantic Times Top Picks, and Rita and Eppie award winners! And yea! My short story collection is included. These are stories based on the Mudflat characters and have been previously published in magazines and anthologies.

If you have a YA in the family, pass along this list. Most of these books are only at this lowered price through October 31.
Click the logo for direct link to Amazon Listmania.
- Phoebe Matthews

FREE SHORT STORY

noreply@blogger.com (Phoebe) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 02:57:00 +0000

FROM my collection of short stories, most of them based on Mudflat characters. Most of the stories in Nine Horoscope-in-Catsup Stories were previously published in magazines and anthologies. NEAT ALYSSUM first appeared in Crossed Genres magazine and is about the sister of Mudflat's Little Nicky. And it is FREE for now so enjoy a light read.

Phoebe Matthews

Tribute to my best friend...

noreply@blogger.com (Judah Raine) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 10:15:00 +0000

For Keila,

I keep telling myself that you know what I'm feeling. Believing that you share the impact of this oh so final separation brings comfort, as if somehow you can still be with me as I weep and grieve and work past the aching place of loss. And oh, how I wish I could feel the warmth of you beside me, your head on my shoulder in the wordless gesture of comfort you gave so many times in my moments of tears.

To say I miss you doesn't come close. I chase the memories, the times you made me laugh, or made me mad, or teased me with your endearing (and infuriating) habits. Through it all, one simple truth stands out: Your abiding, unshakable love and loyalty. No matter what-and there were many whats, big and small-you were there. You never critised, never condemned, never questioned. You were there to wake me, to see me off, to welcome me home. Always close, always faithful, always so sensitive to where I was at and what I needed.

Looking back, one word comes to mind. Phenomenal. Always mothering anything you could. Your courage and determination to get back on your feet when you lost the use of your back legs. The way you led your "family" and protected them. Your presence filled our home, our lives, our hearts, and the space you have left is huge.

Yet I find comfort that we were together at your end. To hold you and love you was my tribute, my thanks, my gift, so you could die with the same tremendous dignity with which you lived. Though I weep as I write this, I'd not have it any other way.

Am I foolish for doing this? Perhaps. But you lived so large and gave so much that somehow it needs to be told. There were times, my dear sweet friend, that I could not have done it without you.

I ache, I weep, I grieve. But oh, how blessed was I to have had a best friend like you!

'Palace of the Fountains' now available as a pre-order

noreply@blogger.com (Lindsay Townsend) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:25:00 +0000

My new romantic suspense title, Palace of the Fountains, is now ready to pre-order from Bookstrand at a discount until mid-August.

Here's the link.

Lindsay Townsend

Release Day! GIFTS GONE ASTRAY, Regency comedy

noreply@blogger.com (Linda Banche) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:01:00 +0000

Today is the release day for my latest Regency comedy novella, Gifts Gone Astray.

BLURB:
A gift is a wonderful surprise. Or maybe not.

At the Earl of Langley's family gathering, everyone receives a gift, including the servants. Tutor Stephen Fairfax expects a small token, but the present from family member Mrs. Anne Copely, the widow who's caught his eye, is a dream come true.

Until he opens it. What a gift! How did that demure lady acquire such a book? And she wants to "study" it with him? If he accepts her offer, tempting as it is, he could lose his job.

Anne has no idea why Mr. Fairfax is in such a flutter. Her present is a simple book of illustrations. The subject interests them both, and she would like nothing better than to examine the book--and Mr. Fairfax--more closely.

EXCERPT:
She glanced at the mantel clock. "Oh, look at the time! I must return to the drawing room. So much to do before the family party tonight. But, before I leave..." She swallowed. "We had some trouble with the gifts today. Yours went missing. I apologize—"

"But I received a gift. Someone left it outside my door."

"Thank the stars." She pressed her hand to her bosom.

Stephen's gaze followed her hand down and his throat dried.

"I worried your present was lost."

She worried about me. Capital! He tore his eager gaze from her breasts and lifted his head. "I have not yet unwrapped it. A book, I take it?"

"Yes. The volume belonged to my husband. He was a scholar, and that book was one of his favorites. Mine, too. We spent many happy hours enjoying it." Another dazzling smile curved her lips. "I selected it with you in mind."

His pulse thumped. I have a chance. "You flatter me with your consideration."

"My pleasure." She flashed another of her heart-stopping smiles. "As much as I long to, I will not ruin the surprise by telling you what the book is." She smoothed her face into a blank stare, but her glorious chocolate eyes twinkled.

So, she wanted to play games. He gave an inward smirk. He would love to play games of a different sort. But he would settle for a guessing game. For now.

Available at:

The Wild Rose Press

Note, depending where you are, the links might not yet be active.

Thank you all,
Linda
Linda Banche
Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!
http://www.lindabanche.com

Blog Party! Announcing my new release, The Wolf's Torment!

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Sun, 01 May 2011 13:00:00 +0000

My paranromal romance, The Wolf's Torment, comes out today with Desert Breeze Publishing! It's set in the 1860's in Romania in the picturesque town of Constanta, in Moldavia on the coast of the Black Sea.

Leave a comment and receive PDF copy of Heart of Moldavia, the free prequel and a PDF Copy of the novel.

Here's a BLURB:It's 1865 in Moldavia, a country nestled against the shores of the Black Sea, and Crown Prince Mihai Sigmaringen returns after receiving an education in England. His best friend, Viktor Bacau joins him. Mihai is intent on modernizing his nation, but he's also a witch, and it's time he embraces his heritage. The tasks in front of him are many including getting married.

Lady Theresa von Kracken arrives in Constanta as Mihai's intended. Mihai has vowed not to fall in love again, but Theresa manages to break the battlements around his heart.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Viktor is bitten by a werewolf. Viktor's transformation threatens everyone around him including his wife's safety and Mihai's happiness with Theresa. Viktor's bite is the wolf's torment.

EXCERPT:
Her hazel eyes pierced the distance between them, and he heard the quick intake of her breath, betraying her surprise. He couldn't believe he'd admitted something so personal to her.

"Oh," she replied.
"How do you feel about that?"

"Children should be wanted and loved. They should be cherished," she said.

"I agree. Now, tell me, what about the children moved you?"

"They were so helpless, depending on the charity of others. I just want to make it so they didn't need to beg. I want all of their needs to be cared for."

"All children should have that. You have my support, of course. I'll talk to Viktor and tell him to take the funds you need out of my private account."

She lowered her gaze. Why had she done that? Was she suddenly embarrassed? He curved his fingers under her chin, warmth pulsing through him, and raised her head so they were eye to eye. He enjoyed touching her.

"Thank you," she whispered. "Why did you look away?"
"Perhaps I overstepped my bounds. I didn't know--"

"No, of course not. What I have is yours. You're going to be my wife, and soon, queen of this principality. I think your patronage of the orphanage is noble and much needed. It reflects the kind heart you have. That kind of selflessness is what I hoped my wife would have in her heart."

Her hazel eyes betrayed her vulnerability. Touched, Mihai leaned forward and placed his lips against hers for a kiss. He was slow and thoughtful, measured, so as not to surprise her, but he could have easily taken it further between them. She kissed him back and his senses spun. Her lips were warm and pliant, hinting of the berries and currants from the wine. Slowly, he pulled away, his heart pounding. She was innocent, untouched, and he did not want to rush her. Her comfort was important to him.
Damn his blood. He wanted her.

She ran her fingers over her lips and looked directly at him. God, his heart hungered to kiss her again. He wanted her in his arms -- he wanted to be inside her. That sudden revelation rocked him to the core of his being.

BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzHE2spBeeU

It's avail as an EBOOK only on Amazon, B&N for the Nook, Sony Ereader, All Romance and from the Publisher's Website.
BUY LINK:http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-163/Stephanie-Burkhart-Moldavian-Moon/Detail.bok

Welcome to CRR's FIRST Book Trailer of the Month Contest!

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:54:00 +0000

Voting takes place now to 21 APR 2011. Winners will be announced on 22 APR. To vote cast your choice for the winning book trailer in the comments area.

BOOK TRAILER #1 -
THE RELUCTANT MARQUESS
Author Maggi Anderson

*****

BOOK TRAILER #2
A NEW DREAM
Author Elaine Cantrell

******

BOOK TRAILER #3
PROTECT THE HEART
Author LK Hunsker

*******

BOOK TRAILER #4
THE COMET
Author Miriam Newman

*********

BOOK TRAILER #5
THE WOLF'S TORMENT
Author Stephanie Burkhart

********

BOOK TRAILER #6
LIFELINE ECHOES
Author Kay Springsteen

******

Rich German Chocolate Brownies Recipe | Recipe4Living

noreply@blogger.com (Candace Sams) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:02:00 +0000

Rich German Chocolate Brownies Recipe Recipe4Living

Hywela Lyn talks about her E-reader

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:28:00 +0000

What kind of ereader do you have?

A Sony PRS-505

Why did you pick that one?

Here in the UK E-Readers are only just becoming recognised and available. The E-book revolution still has a way to go here. When I bought my Sony a couple of years ago, there were really only two affordable options, the Sony or the Kindle. I say affordable, but they were still pretty pricey. I had been reading E-books on my computer but I had a spell of Jury Duty and rather than carry a pile of books around with me during the long periods of waiting to be called in for a hearing, I set my sights on an E-reader.

W H Smith had a special half price offer on the Sony (probably because it was about to be superceded, but I wasn't too worried about that) so I dug into my savings and treated myself. A bonus was that it came with its own leather look cover included, so I didn't have to fork out any extra to buy one, and it not only looks smart but provides extra protection for the Reader.

How easy is it to buy books on your ereader?

Not difficult at all. I buy them in pdf format, transfer them to my on-line 'Library' (The E-book Library and 'Adobe Digital Editions'

software comes with the E-reader) and from there to the Reader. The Reader also came with an on-line manual with instructions on how to download and purchase e-books. I have the occasional hiccup when the software refuses to co-operate but that's usually solved by disconnecting the Reader and then re-connecting. It comes with a USB connector which also charges the Reader, and you can purchase a separate mains charger if required, but I've found the USB perfectly adequate. It has two slots for card readers, to extend the memory, although I've not needed to use them yet, and you can also upload music and photographs to it.

Was cost a factor when buying your ereader?

Definitely. E-readers are considerably more expensive in the UK, than in the US. although the price has been gradually getting lower. But if the Sony had not been on 'special Offer' I would probably not have bought it when I did. It still cost me about £135, with tax, which is roughly about $216, and as I say, prices have dropped a bit since then.

What book are you reading on it now?

I've nearly finished the romantic suspense novel 'Caught By a Clown' by Wild Rose Press Author Sandra Crowley and the next book I'll be reading is 'The Bone Trail' by Nell Walton, also a novel but one with a serious purpose - to draw attention to the plight of the American mustang. As an ardent horse lover I have a vested interest in this and am hosting Nell on my blog at the end of April.

CONCLUSIONS
I am very happy with my Sony. It may not have all the bells and whistles that some of the later models do, but I only bought it to read E-books on and it fulfils that purpose perfectly adequately. If I want to play games, send emails or surf the internet, I use my pc! :) It's easy to 'turn the pages' with the thumb and you can go back or forward however many pages you wish. The one addition I would have liked would have been a backlight. The monochrome display is very easy to read in daylight, but it would be handy to have illumination for reading in the dark, but you can buy clip on lights which are quite good. The battery lasts a long time, depending on how much you use the Reader (The manufacturers say one month.) If you just use the 'switch off' button, the Reader will return to the exact page where you left off next time you switch on. If you close down completely, it takes longer as you have to wait for it to power up and then press the appropriate button to return to your page but it extends the battery life considerably. It takes 2 - 4 hours to recharge the battery via the USB port.

Lyn (Hywela Lyn)

My Website ~ My Blog ~ My Space ~ My Polkadot Banner Page~Facebook

'Starquest' and 'Children Of The Mist' and my 'freeread' available HERE

Elaine Cantrel talks about her cover to "A New Dream"

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:00:00 +0000

STEPH: How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?

ELAINE: My first impression was that it was totally, totally wonderful. Elaina Lee is the cover artist for Astraea Press, and she does a fantastic job. We did talk about the bottom half of the cover, but we ultimately decided to leave it as it was.

STEPH: How does the cover reflect the story within?

ELAINE: It reflects the story perfectly. The book is about a pro-football player who has an accident that takes away his career. He's adrift until he meets Violet Emerson and starts to heal. The top half of the cover shows Violet who is not only beautiful but also finds life beautiful. She's well portrayed by the cover model. The bottom half shows a football player with his hands in the air in a touchdown gesture. This is the part we discussed changing to maybe a pro player, but we decided not to because when he was a kid, football was all Matt dreamed of. Elaina did a great job capturing the "dream" theme.

STEPH: Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her? Do they have a website or Facebook page?

ELANIE: Elaina is an author as well as a cover artist. Her books are a lot hotter than mine! Here are links to her personal sites as well as her business site.

http://elaina-lee.blogspot.com/?zx=b112cd344b0db5c
http://www.elainalee.com/
http://www.forthemusedesign.com/ This is her own design business. Her work is beautiful.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elaina-Lee/154994344521249

STEPH: How much imput did you have in the cover art work?

ELAINE: LOL. That's hard to say. I liked the first version so much there wasn't much left to talk about.

STEPH: What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

ELAINE: The people who've seen it all had positive things to say about it. They all agreed that it did express the "dream" theme.

STEPH: Can you share a buy link with us?

ELAINE: Right now all I have is http://www.astraeapress.com My book doesn't come out until March 15, but when it does, I hope you’ll take a look at it. It really is one of my favorites.

Cover: A New Dream
Publication Date: March 8, 2011
Author: Elaine Cantrell http://www.elainecantrell.com
Publisher: Astraea Press http://www.astraeapress.com
Cover Artist: Elaina Lee http://www.elainalee.com

Jacquie Rogers: Cover for Much Ado About Marshals

noreply@blogger.com (Jacquie Rogers) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 +0000

#1 - How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?

I have to delay answering the drool factor portion of this question until later. Suffice it to say I love everything about the cover, which turned out even better than expected, and my expectations were pretty high!

#2 - How does the cover reflect the story within?

Much Ado About Marshals is about a man who's thrust into the role of a marshal, even though he's wanted for bank robbery. It's the case of an honest man living a lie--being forced into dishonesty, and acting as if he were honest about it. This plays into the romance conflict, because the heroine is all about truth, justice, and honesty, so there's a bit of a mix-up there, to say the least.

The model is wearing a black hat and someone is handing him a badge, which he's ignoring. We know that black hats aren't always bad guys, but white hats are nearly always good guys. I wanted it known that there's something amiss with this hero, even though he looks good as gold. And then there's the little gunfighter guy to the left of "Ado" which tells the reader this is not a serious book, by any means. The background is the same color as the badge, so we know the town and the badge go together, and the hero is separate. But the heroine is determined to marry the hero, so we also see he's good looking enough that it's believable she would fall in love with him, both looks and demeanor.

The cover quote is by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews. It's too small to read here, so I'll reprint: "Unforgettable! I cannot recommend this title highly enough." I rather like that blurb. :)

#3 - Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her?

Deborah MacGillivray designed the cover. She's amazing--has designed over 200 covers including the cover for my previous release, Down Home Ever Lovin' Mule Blues. She's multi-talented--the author of the Dragons of Challon series for Kensington and the Sisters of Colford Hall series for Dorchester. She is a cover addict, loves a great cover, and knows what elements are required to both portray the story and to market the book. You can see some of her covers at http://purpleraindesigns.co.uk/covers.htm.

#4 - How much input did you have in the cover art work?

I chose the model, rented the costume, and shot the photos. DeborahAnne and I discussed the story, I showed her the photos and we picked one. After that, it was a matter of her finding things (and telling me what else she needed) that enhanced the story. Every single graphic, color, and placement was done that way for a reason. She knows what she's doing, but even so, she keeps me involved every step in the design process, so she also teaches me a lot. It's a wonder and pure joy to see my raw materials morph into a work of art. And it's nothing short of a miracle when I see the final cover. There's no feeling quite like it!

#5 - What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

The cover model has been deemed drool-worthy by dozens of my writer friends and readers, even though not bare-chested. You just don't see a lot a bare-chested cowhands, though, for good reason. Clothing is a protection. Seriously, Kyle Walker, the model, really does look like a cowhand, and a heartbreaker for all the girls. In real life, he's a construction worker with much the same personality as the hero in the book, Cole Richards, so the drools are indeed warranted. But, since he's my nephew, I'll leave that to the rest of the female population. :)

As for the complete cover, we've had lots of positive feedback. Those who have already read the book think the cover is spot on, and those who haven't read it say the cover draws them in, which is, of course, exactly what we're aiming for. So I'm a happy girl!

#6 - Can you share a buy link with us?

Much Ado About Marshals will be released in both ebook and print. The ebook will be released in June and the print book will be released mid-July 2011 by Melange Publishing. You can read more about it on my website.

Contest! One commenter will win an autographed copy of Faery Merry Christmas (USA mailing only, otherwise, a pdf). This book should be in print by the time this blog is posted--so it'll be hot off the press!

Thanks so much for stopping by. Here are a few places you can find me:
Jacquie's Website * Facebook * Twitter * 1st Turning Point

Other books by Jacquie:
Down Home Ever Lovin' Mule Blues
Faery Special Romances
Faery Merry Christmas

A Cover in the Making: LK Hunsaker

noreply@blogger.com (LK Hunsaker) — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 15:10:00 +0000

Hello! Like most authors, I spend a lot of time browsing book covers. I want to see which pull me and and then try to decide why they did. I have a two-fold reason, though: all of my covers are my own design. Along with writing since I can remember, I was an art major in college, at least until I decided to switch and make it my minor instead. Either way, I figured I might as well make that work for me!

My first cover was for Finishing Touches, the story of a young artist. I not only used that cover project in a design class (two birds with one stone), but I pulled in a conte crayon sketch I did for a different art class project to depict Jenna, my heroine. The rest was computer graphics, which I took time to work at and used for my Rehearsal covers. Off The Moon is a combination of three photos, two of mine and one (the gorgeous moon photo) by the very talented Ines of inescreations.com. My most recent cover, Protect The Heart, is a mix of a photo I took years ago and a charcoal sketch I did to depict the story.

The one I want to show off today, though, is my next to come: Moondrops & Thistles.

I’ll try to follow the questions for this month’s cover theme, but I’ll have to adapt a couple of them.

(A note: the cover is still in progress. I plan to add a larger, more detailed moon instead of the one that’s there.)

1. How did you feel about the cover when you opened it?

How about.. how do I feel about my covers once they’re done?

Doing your own covers is the same as editing your own work. You have to send them out and about for opinions because it’s impossible to be fully objective. With my other covers, I always received (gladly) feedback as to possible changes. So far, all I’ve heard from this one is “I Love It!” I hope readers feel the same!

I do think so far this is one of my two favorites.

2. How does the cover reflect the story within?

Here’s the blurb (may still be edited) :

Daws, aka Sergeant Fred Dawson, U.S. Army, has been called to serve in Desert Storm. A determined, well-trained leader, he brings his men home safely only to suffer a huge loss shortly afterward due to an accident for which he feels partly responsible. He is sent home to New York City on forced leave to regain his bearings and runs into Deanna Meyers.

Deanna has had it with men. As far as she’s concerned, after too many times trusting and being betrayed, there’s not still a true loyal and honest gentleman left in the city. On top of that, she’s continuously fighting to advance in the world of advertising where the men in charge are more interested in her other attributes. When she runs into a well-built sturdy-looking man at a bus stop, on a metal bench, in the pouring rain, she recognizes a kindred spirit and considers taking one more chance.

Moondrops refers to a section in the story where Daws is musing his family connections and his connection to the larger world. It’s also a play on “Off The Moon” since it’s a prequel to that novel.

Thistles refers to an Abraham Lincoln quote: “Die when I may, I want it said by those who knew me best that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.”

The black and white theme is also a metaphor for several issues within the story.

3. Who is the cover artist? Do they have a website?

Half answered already. My website is http://www.lkhunsaker.com You can find my other covers there, and I could maybe be talked into doing covers for other authors, but I don’t do photos of real people. Artsy renderings of people, possibly, but I specialize in nature, both by photo and art. I have a ton of gorgeous nature photos.

4. How much input did you have in the cover art work?

Again, already answered, so I’ll tell you my process with this one. This is the first one where I took a 16x20 sketch pad, drew out the dimensions of the cover, and did the whole thing in pencil first. Then I used art pens to fill in the lights and shadows of the buildings, and watercolor pencils for the flowers, and for the guys on the back. The background is from a photo and I added that after scanning the finished art into the computer. Since the book is still in editing and I’m not sure yet of the exact spine width, I have it set up so the space between the two tall buildings (yes, the Twin Towers since they were still there in 1991 when it’s set) can be adjusted.

5. What type of feedback have you received on the cover?

Well.. I guess we’ll find out with this post!

6. Can you share a buy link with us?

Not out yet! You’re seeing it here first!

I expect it to be available this summer, if all goes well, and you’ll be able to find it in print at Elucidate Publishing and as ebook at
Smashwords: LK Hunsaker as well as BN.com and other major retailers.
(By the way, the Smashwords link has 2 free read stories called “A First Thanksgiving” and “Toward The Sky,” both of which are related to Moondrops & Thistles.

While I’m here, want to see the full wrap-around cover (before adding text, that is)?

LK Hunsaker
~Literary Romance with an Artsy Twist~
http://www.lkhunsaker.com
http://lkhunsaker.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/author.lkhunsaker

~~~~

Technorati Tags: writing,authors,covers,fiction,military,art,New York City,music,classic romance

Flying High Cover by Jane Toombs

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:00:00 +0000

ABOUT JANE: Jane Toombs has eighty plus published books so far and a lot of novellas. Jane, the Viking from her past and their calico grandcat, Kinko, live on the south shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula with three marvelous seasons to enjoy, plus winter to tolerate. When she’s not writing, Jane takes walks, reads, does crosswords puzzles, exercises on “the machine’ and watches House on TV.

STEPH: How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?

JANE: I said, out loud, “That’s it! That’s 1920’s Chicago.” Then I hauled the Viking, who lived in Chicago for many years.in to look at it and asked him, “Where is this?” His answer was that he knew that corner and it was in Chicago, but why were the people dressed in old-fashioned clothes? Told him because it was the 1920s “Oh,“ he said, “is this the flying book you dedicated to me? And yes, it ..is. The Viking was a Navy pilot in WWII and flew small planes as a civilian afterwards.

STEPH: How does the cover reflect the story within?

JANE: of all by showing a recognizable corner of Chicago in the days of Al Capone. Secondly by being r black and white instead of in color--at that time all the movies were black and white. And then showing male and female characters dressed in clothing of that period. The cover looks like the Roaring 20s in Chicago.

STEPH: Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her? Do they have a website or Facebook page?

JANE: Martine Jardin. She’s the cover artist for eXtasy and Devine Destinies and was a finalist in three genre categories of covers in the Epic Cover Contest, one of which was fantasy and my cover for Dragon’s Stone, the third book in my Darkness Of Dragon’s Trilogy from Devine Destinies.. Shw has both a website and is on Facebook

STEPH: How much input did you have in the cover art work?

JANE: Just the Art Information Sheet. I happen to dislike having clinch covers, so I always note that, but otherwise, she seems to read my mind, because the covers are so linked to the book and so gorgeous.

STEPH: What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

JANE: So far just from other authors who’ve seen it (the book is supposed to be out this month) and they all have said in one way or anther that it’s a really great cover that evokes both Chicago and the era.

STEPH: Can you share a buy link with us?

JANE: Not yet. But as soon as it’s released this month there’ll be a buy link on my website : http://www.JaneToombs.com

The Count's Lair Cover Art by Stephanie Burkhart

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Hi all, it's great to be here today to talk about my cover. Just a little about me: I was born in Manchester, New Hampshire. After graduating from Central High, I joined the US Army. I spent 11 years in the military, 7 in Germany. While in the military, I earned a BS in Political Science from California Baptist University in Riverside, CA in 1995. I left the Army in 1997 and settled in California, but my favorite football team is still the New England Patriots. I work for LAPD as a 911 dispatcher. I've been married for 19 years. I have two boys, Andrew, 8, and Joseph, 4.

#1 - How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?

STEPH: I loved it! I definately drooled. After 20 minutes I put it on my smart phone as the wallpaper.

#2 - How does the cover reflect the story within?

STEPH: The cover reflects the mood and tone of the story, which is a paranormal romance with gothic overtones.

#3 - Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her? Do they have a website or Facebook page?

STEPH: The cover artist is Jenifier Ranieri. You can find her on Facebook. She's done most of the cover art for Desert Breeze, but now they are taking on a couple more artists. Jen's very sweet and open to the author's thoughts, but her goal is to capture that one picture that will reflect the story. Last year, she won EPIC's QUASAR award for her cover of "White Tiger" by Vijaya Schartz.

Cover Artist, Jenifier Ranieri

#4 - How much imput did you have in the cover art work?

STEPH: Jen sends an info cover art sheet to fill out. It's very extensive and asks for a lot of information. If you've got pictures of the setting and characters that you've found inspirating she likes to see that.

#5 - What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

STEPH: Everyone who sees it gushes about it. It's very eye-catching. Gorgeous.

#6 - Can you share a buy link with us?

STEPH: You got it:http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-142/Stephanie-Burkhart-Budapest-Moon/Detail.bok, Currently, it's only avail as an ebook, but you can purchase it for the Kindle, Nook, Kobo and Sony.

Smiles
Steph

Author Maryann Miller Talks About the Cover For "Play It Again, Sam"

noreply@blogger.com (Maryann Miller) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:06:00 +0000

It has been nice to see all the covers and read about how they were created here at Classic Romance Revival. Today I am here to talk a bit about the cover for my contemporary romance, Play It Again, Sam. It was designed by a very talented artist, who just happens to be my daughter. Or should I say by my daughter, who just happens to be a very talented artist?

Either way, I think you get the impression that I am very proud of her, and you are right. Her name is Dany Russell, and she does Web design in addition to helping me with covers and banners and other graphic arts needs I have. She does Web design and maintenance for a few clients and designed my Web site.

In the design, Dany was able to capture so many elements of the story, which is about a woman who must find new love after her husband of 25 years dumps her. She faces many challenges as she steps hesitantly into the dating world and is uncertain about the man who sends roses and asks her if she can "Play it Again, Sam."

It is so important that a cover tells the potential reader something about the story, as well as being attractive enough to catch the eye. Dany knew the whole story, as she had read it when it had a brief life as a paperback, so I didn't tell her anything about what I wanted on the cover. The previous cover had a collage of black and white stills from the movie "Casablanca" and I really like that, but we couldn't use it. So I finally told Dany to just be creative, and boy, was she. My publisher, Uncial Press, agreed that the cover was perfect, so they accepted her design.

Last June, the cover was honored here at Classic Romance Revival as the best cover for that month. Dany and I were thrilled to win.

Play It Again, Sam is available HERE

Author Joselyn Vaughn talks about her new cover for Sucker for a Hot Rod

noreply@blogger.com (Joselyn Vaughn) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Hi everyone, glad to be here. It's been a while since I've been able to stop by. I am a stay at home mom who tries to fit writing in between the horrors of potty training twins and changing diapers. I have two books published with Avalon Books, CEOs Don't Cry and Courting Sparks. My newest release is from Astraea Press and is titled Sucker for a Hot Rod.

#1 - How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?
I was really excited. Elaina got so many details exactly right. I loved how the hero was leaning against the tire of the car and looking longingly at the heroine. And she got the car right. We had to do a little adjusting to get the color of the car just right, but I love the cover.

#2 - How does the cover reflect the story within?
It really shows the atmosphere of the story. The small town garage. The bold look on the heroine's face really reflects her personality.

#3 - Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her? Do they have a website or Facebook page?

The cover artist is Elaina Lee. I believe she does all the covers for Astraea Press. She is fabulous. You can see them at http://astraeapress.com.

#4 - How much imput did you have in the cover art work?

She has an information sheet that the author's fill out. I could list the things I wanted on the cover or definitely didn't want on the cover.

#5 - What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

My friends love it. It's fun to have everyone excited about it.

#6 - Can you share a buy link with us?

I wish I could. Sucker for a Hot Rod doesn't come out until the end of March. It will be in a variety of ebook formats. When it does, it will be available at http://astraeapress.com and Amazon and a bunch of other places.

Author Miriam Newman Talks About the Book Cover for Her Latest Release!

noreply@blogger.com (Miriam Newman) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:14:00 +0000

Tell a little about yourself (give short bio):

Hi, Steph! I've really only been writing romance for about four years. Before that, I was multi-published in poetry and had been for forty years. But for some reason, following the death of my husband my Muse decided upon romance and that was that! "The Comet" is my ninth book. For twelve years, I wanted to write a romance set against the background of the Battle of Hastings, and finally I did.

How did you feel when you opened your cover. Did you drool over it or did you want some revisions to it?

I loved it, thought it was perfect and didn't want to change a thing.

How does the cover reflect the story within?

The costume is period-specific, the swatch of the Bayeux Tapestry shown in the background is probably the best-known symbol of the conquest of William the Conqueror and the portrayal of Halley's Comet streaking over England and France as it did in 1066 is perfect. People were very superstitious in that era and had no idea what a comet was. Therefore, they looked at it as a symbol of victory. Of course, each side--Norman and Anglo-Saxon--claimed it would be THEIR victory!

Who is the cover artist? Can you tell us a little about him/her? Do they have a website or Facebook page?

Annie Marshall of Beyond the Book Productions. I was incredibly lucky that she is herself a historical author noted for her Highland romances and familiar with the time period about which I was writing. In fact, here's a little information about her and a picture of Annie with her helper, Nina!

Annie Marshall is a proud Army wife to her modern day warrior and busy mom to two kids, two Pembroke Welsh Corgis, and an adorable American short hair black cat.

While wearing the hat of DCL Publications' Managing Cover Artist and Photographer, Ms. Marshall is also an award winning published Celtic Paranormal Romance Author for them as well.

www.annie-marshall.com

How much imput did you have in the cover art work?

I filled out a book cover worksheet for Annie, but from there it was up to her!

What type of feedback have you gotten on the cover.

I literally can't count how many positive comments I have gotten about this cover.

Can you share a buy link with us?

Sure! It is at www.thedarkcastlelords.com/TheComet.htm. Note that there is a Kindle link there, too.

Thanks for the opportunity to talk about my book, Steph. And here is Annie's stunning cover:

Miriam

www.miriamnewman.com

www.thecelticroseblog.blogspot.com

Author Maggi Anderson talks about the cover to her latest release

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 02:40:00 +0000

STEPH: Maggie, thanks for being here today. What did you do when you first saw the cover?

MAGGIE: .When I saw this cover I knew the cover gods had been very kind. I love it. And covers are so important. One cover I had was so dark you couldn't distinguish my name and it didn't sell well.

STEPH: I love the cover, Maggi! It's very eye-catching. How does it capture the feel of the story?

MAGGI: It perfectly represents the story. My main character, Charity Barlow is exactly like the woman on the cover, even down to attitude.
STEPH: Who is the cover artist?

MAGGI: It was created for the launch of Embrace books in the UK by the talented Chris Hamilton-Emery at Salt Publishing who is also The Cover Factory.

STEPH: How much input did you have in the cover?

MAGGI: I had very little imput into this one. I asked for it to have people or a person on it and be pretty. I think you'll agree they did as I asked.

STEPH: What's the response been to your cover?

MAGGI: I've had a favorable response from everyone so far.

STEPH: Can you share a buy link?

MAGGI: The book comes out on Valentine's Day. Here is the buy LInk: http://www.amazon.com/The-Reluctant-Marquess-ebook/dp/B004NBY2EW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=A24IB90LPZJ0BS&s=books&qid=1297574707&sr=1-1

Thanks for popping in, Maggie!

Welcome to the CRR Scavenger Hunt! 13-14 FEB!

noreply@blogger.com (StephB) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 08:00:00 +0000

Hunters you are looking for a page with this graphic. This page will have the answer to the clue listed below.

Hello Hunters, Welcome to this year's CRR Scavenger Hunt. Here's what it's about. The following authors have graciously elected to participate in the hunt:

MARION WEB De SISTO
JACQUIE ROGERS
NICOLE ZOLTACK
DANIELLE THORNE
STEPHANIE BURKHART
JAMIE HILL
LINDA BANCHE
ELAINE CANTREL
MARYANN MILLER
JANE TOOMBS
LIANA LAVERENTZ

As you read this post, you'll be given a list of clues which will be related to the authors listed above. Using the clue, "hunt" down the answer and remember to record the URL of where you found the answer and what the answer is.

Once you've collected all the answers send me an email to either of the following addresses:

SGCARDIN1@YAHOO.COM OR
BOTRINA_BUCHANAN@YAHOO.COM

put in the subject line: CRR SCAVENGER HUNT ANSWERS.

You have the 13 and 14th of Feburary to hunt for the answers. Have your answers in to me by 1200 Midnight, 14 FEB PST.

If you have all the answers right, your name will go in a hat. I will begin pulling out names for the prizes and announce the winners and the prizes on the CRR LOOP as well as here on the blog on 15 FEB.

In a few second, I'll list the prizes available to win. Any questions you can ask in the blog post as I'll be checking throughout the day.

HERE IS A LIST OF CLUES:

#1 CLUE: How does Marion DeSisto describe herself?

#2 CLUE:What’s the title of Jacquie’s Rogers July 2011 release?

#3 CLUE: Where is Geoffrey from? (from Nicole Zoltack's Knight of Glory)

#4 CLUE: What is the name of The Privateer's ship?

#5 CLUE:Which CRR author wrote PUMPKINNAPPER?

#6 CLUE: In Return Engagement, what did Richard win for Elizabeth at the carnival?

#7 CLUE: What CRR author has the tagline Spicy Sassy Suspense?

#8 CLUE: What is Jane Toombs' calico cat's name?

#9 CLUE: What CRR author wrote: "Play it Again, Sam"

#10 CLUE:What CRR Author won both an EPPIE and the Golden Leaf Award for Thin Ice?

#11 CLUE: What CRR Author's story is called "Royal Pretender" in the Classic Romance Revival Cupid Diaries?

Here's a list of prizes:

#1 A print copy of Abbadon - A Fantasy by Marion DeSisto

#2 For USA mailing—a tote bag and a signed copy of Faery Special Romances from Jacquie Rogers. For everywhere else: a pdf of Faery Special Romances.

#3 Print copy: PDF copy of Knight of Glory or Woman of Honor

#4 PDF copy of The Privateer.

#5 PDF Copy of: Pumpkinnapper.

#6 PDF of Return Engagement

#7 PDF of Hide and Seek from Jamie Hill.

#8 Tote Bag from Maryann Miller.

#9 print copy Halloween Treasures Anthology US & Canada only. If outside, these two countries, a download. Plus a CD of excerpts from all my books from Liana Lavenertz.

#10 - PDF copy of my paranormal romance, "The Count's Lair."

#11 - PDF copy of Dragon's Pearl, the first book in my Darkness of Dragons Trilogy from Jane Toombs

Enjoy the Hunt!