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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Christmas without the grandkids

I have to admit, I'm not looking forward to Christmas morning this year. This will be the first year we won't have excited faces on Christmas morning.

My youngest daughter and her two children, Xavier (4 yrs old) and Gracelyn (2 yrs old) have lived with us since they were born. It's be fun seeing their beautiful faces light up when they open their gifts from Santa.

Well, this year they live in their own place, and as a small family, they will spend it the three of them opening presents - without Grandma and Grandpa. (sobs) My daughter told us we could come over and watch them, but we won't. I remember what it was like when my family was small. Hubby and I wanted our special time with the kids before the rest of the family came over - or we went to their house. So we will give my daugther, Heather, and the kids their space.

Last night we took Heather and the kids to Willard Bay to see "Fantasy By The Bay" - which is a park filled with Christmas lights. It was wonderful to hear the grandkids ooh, and ahhh over the lights as we drove through the park. There was even a place to visit Santa...although my daughter and I noticed he needs to gain some weight before Christmas. lol


















Christmas Eve we will have the kids over and we'll all get to build a Gingerbread House!  I can hardly wait!!

~Marie~

Monday, December 20, 2010

What's coming next??

I'm very excited to tease you... Um, I mean show you what book will be coming out next. February is the big date for this story. Currently it hasn't a title, although my publisher is leaning toward "Hearts Through Time". (no, this picture isn't the cover, but I'm sure it'll look a lot like it!)



When a beautiful woman claiming to be a ghost from 1912 appears in Nick Marshal’s new office and begs for help in solving her murder, he’s intrigued enough to consider her plea. A scandal that rocked Hollywood almost destroyed his law practice, so taking on a client who insists she’s dead seems a good way to refresh his career. The more history he uncovers, the deeper he falls for the ghost. Abigail Carlisle believes Nick is her heart’s true desire, but how can happily ever after happen when she’s already dead?


**EXCERPT**

Vanessa gave him a practiced pout again. “What’s happened to you, Nicky? You used to be so spontaneous and fun.”


“Life’s cruel lessons have changed me.”

She leaned her head on his arm. “Yeah, I read about your entanglement with Leslie Blake after you represented her Hollywood producer husband in their divorce.” She shook her head. “I don’t think there was a single person in the United States that hasn’t heard about that scandal.”

Nick shrugged off her arm and stuffed fisted his hands into his pockets. Thanks for reminding me. Vanessa certainly knew how to rub vinegar in his open wound. “Don’t believe everything you read in the tabloids.”

She walked ahead of him into his office. The moment he stepped in behind her, she pressed him against the wall and kicked the door closed with her black, stilettos. She wrapped her fingers around his tie to hold him in place. “Nicky, do you know how much I’ve missed you?”

She leaned up to plant a kiss on his lips, but this time he refused to accept it. “Nessa, no. I’ve got to get to work.”

A deep frown marred her face. “Dinner tonight, then?”

“Can’t. I’m busy.”

“No, you’re not.” She scowled. “You’re trying to avoid me.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.”

“Do I need to remind you that my father owns this building?”

He arched a brow. “Vanessa, dear, that almost sounds like a threat, and I don’t surrender to them.”

“I’m not issuing a threat. But whether you know this or not, I was the one who made it possible for you to get an office in my father’s building.”

“What are you talking about?”

“My father was going to refuse your lease application because of your public fall from grace. He wasn’t sure he wanted someone with a scandalous reputation renting from him, but I convinced him to give you a second chance.”

Bunching his hands into fists, Nick held in his frustration. Irritation flowed through him like acid, burning him inside. Why couldn’t people forget the past? Maybe he should take her out. He at least owed her a dinner, but nothing more. “Okay, we’ll go out, but not tonight. How about tomorrow night? I’ll pick you up at seven o’clock.”

She lifted on tiptoes to kiss him again, but he turned his face so her lips could graze his cheek. She pulled back and glared.

“I hope you’re in a better mood then,” she snapped before walking out the door and slamming it behind her. Her high heels pounded on the hardwood floor of the hall, echoing loudly.

Exhaling a relieved sigh, he closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead. Leave it to Vanessa to make the dead aware of her departure. Thankfully he didn’t have close neighbors in the building.

“Excuse me if I’m intruding.”

Another feminine voice broke his concentration. He spun around and faced his unknown visitor. A woman rose from the brown leather chair in front of his desk. Confused, Nick glanced from the woman to the closed office door and back again. When had she arrived? Embarrassment poured over him as he realized she must have been in the office waiting for him when he’d arrived with Vanessa. Yet … why hadn’t he seen her until now?

Nick did a double take at the strange woman as his gaze slid over her length. She definitely wasn’t someone displayed in a style magazine like Vanessa. Instead it looked as though this woman had stepped off the set of an early 1900’s motion picture.

His visitor smoothed a hand down the side of her ankle-length cream-colored dress decorated with entirely too much lace. It contoured her body nicely, yet beyond the point of modesty – especially in this day and age. Her blonde hair was swept up beneath a flat hat decorated with three outlandish pink flowers, and white-laced gloves encased her hands. Even her proper posture spoke of an old-time society dame. Yet her smooth, young face told him she wasn’t old at all. Probably somewhere in her mid twenties.

The oddly dressed lady cleared her throat and stepped closer. “Forgive me for interrupting.”

Despite the musical lilt to her voice, the trace of British intonation brought to mind the high-and-mighty aristocrats he’d rubbed elbows with at his last firm. With quick fingers, he straightened his tie and came forward. “Uh, no, Ma’am. You didn’t interrupt anything important. I’m sorry you had to witness that ... umm, display just now.”

Her lips remained stretched in a thin line, color darkening her cheeks. “Are you Mr. Nicholas Marshal?”

He maintained a professional smile, but after what she’d caught him doing, it was hard to keep embarrassment from burning through his body. Maybe Vanessa had set out to sabotage his first day in a new town after all.

“Yes, I’m Nick.”

“The solicitor?”

Solicitor? Who used that term anymore? Nick wondered. “I’m a lawyer, yes. And you are...”

She took another step toward him. “I’m Abigail Carlisle.”

He sauntered closer, but when her eyes widened and face paled, he stopped. Maybe she was claustrophobic or had a fear of getting too close to people. “Nice to meet you, Miss Carlisle. Are you seeking my services?”

Her brilliant green eyes flashed, and color crept into her face as a blush dotted her cheeks. “I’m seeking your professional ... I ... I mean, your services as a solicitor.”

He tried not to grin over what he supposed she’d misinterpreted. Curse Vanessa’s hide for making me look this bad!

Nick motioned toward the chair. “Please, then, have a seat.” Straightening his suit jacket, he walked around the desk to his chair. “I want to apologize again for that scene a few minutes ago. She was an unexpected visitor.”

“No need to explain, Mr. Marshal.” The woman arched an eyebrow. “I understand perfectly.”

As she sat, he slid his chair closer to the desk. “I’m surprised I didn’t see you,” he said. “I can’t remember passing you in the hall.”

Her expression remained solemn, and he dropped his gaze to the delicate shape of her mouth. This woman was definitely a looker – although so different than Vanessa. Beautiful women had always interested him...

Mind out of the gutter, Nick. He looked back to her eyes. They were an intoxicating green – a forest green, that he could stare into without wanting to look away.

Back to reality, Nick. Clients are off limits!

She cleared her throat. “You didn’t see me because going unnoticed is something I have become accustomed to as of late, sir.”

Unnoticed? Not dressed like that. Once more he took in Miss Carlisle’s garb. The woman would definitely stand out in any crowd.

He opened the drawer, took out his mini voice-recorder and pressed the on button. “I hope you don’t mind, but I always record my sessions.”

“That is permissible.”

“What can I do for you, Miss ... or is it Mrs. Carlisle?”

“I’m not married.”

“Then Miss Carlisle it is.” Her stiff, aloof behavior pricked his curiosity. In an attempt to draw her out, he flashed his most charming smile. She did not so much as bat an eyelash in return. It stung his ego just a bit, since women usually melted beneath that smile. Nonetheless, he wasn’t here to make her weak in the knees but to gain her trust and represent her.

She repositioned herself on her seat, pulling her shoulders back primly as she faced him. “I have searched for you for a long time. You are the only person who can help me.”

The urgency in her tone made him pause. It was in total contradiction to her outward, ice queen, appearance. Just the same, what an odd thing to say… “Really?” he asked. “Why do you think I’m the only person who can help?”

“I don’t think, Mr. Marshal. I know.”

Nick cocked a skeptical brow. “How do you know?”

A flash of hesitation, or perhaps embarrassment, skirted across her face in a subtle gesture. “My maternal grandmother—” Miss Carlisle paused to draw a short breath. “Told me one day I would find the man who could help me.”

Nick should have been amused at the absurdity of her story, but just the same he was intrigued. “And she actually said my name?”

“Well, not exactly,” Miss Carlisle replied, “but it was close enough. She gave the initials N.M., and she said you would be a solicitor.”

“Solicitor? When you use that word, you are referring to an attorney?”

She shrugged, her head bobbing to the right. “They mean the same thing, do they not?”

Disturbing tingles crawled up his back, the sort of sixth sense sensation one experienced while walking through a cemetery in the pitch dark of night or after a scary movie. Nick shook off the feeling. Was her grandmother some kind of fortune-teller? “So how do you know N. M. is me?”

Finally, a timid smile touched her mouth. “Because you are speaking to me right now.”

He shook his head in overt confusion. “I’m afraid I don’t quite understand, Miss Carlisle.”

She closed her eyes as though in pain. “I knew explaining my situation,” she spoke the words carefully, as though testing its meaning, “would be difficult, but I’m at quite a loss for how to clarify myself.”

“Please try, Miss Carlisle, because you have me confused. Why exactly do you need an attorn—er, a solicitor? And why do you believe I’m the man your grandmother spoke of?” More to the point, why are you dressed like someone aboard the Titanic? The last question would have to wait until he ascertained her reason for seeking him out.

The pattern of her breathing quickened as a touch of trepidation touched her stony expression. “Mr. Marshal, the reason I know you’re the man who can help is because you ... can...” She cleared her throat. “You can actually see me.”

Nick held in a laugh at the absurdly obvious statement. “Of course I can see you. You’re sitting right in front of me.”

“True, but your lady friend could not.”

He chuckled, and in silence cursed Vanessa again. “I don’t think my friend was paying much attention at the time.”

“When she walked into the room first, she looked my way, but she didn’t see me.”

He flipped his hand. “I do apologize for that. Vanessa can be a little self-absorbed at times.”

“No, you don’t understand. The reason she couldn’t see me is because … well…” Huge green eyes locked on his with something akin to fear shadowing their depths. It brought about a surge of protectiveness he was not entirely used to experiencing.

“I’m a ghost,” she ended in a whisper.

Nick’s jaw dropped all thoughts of male protectiveness gone. “Did you say a ... ghost?”

She nodded.

Call the psych ward—we have a live one.

 
~Marie~

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Let's add another great review...

What a great month this has been!  Just found another awesome review for Winning Mr. Wrong!  Yippeee!!!

Now, this is not a serious and stiff romantic novel. It is a fun, light read that will make you smile. It will also make you remember the first time you dated someone seriously. Charley chases one man, Maxwell Harrington, while her handsome neighbor, Damien Giovianni is quietly chasing her. You pretty much can figure out how this will all end up, but it is so much fun getting there. This is an LDS Romantic novel; but the religious content will not put off anyone from another faith who wants to read this book. ~~ Sheila




Full review - http://www.whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/


~Marie~

Friday, December 3, 2010

Another great book review!

I'm over the moon with this review!!  Can you see me dancing and singing?? (no, don't hide!)  I'm thrilled with this awesome book review for Winning Mr. Wrong.



Click - BOOK REVIEW

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Great Book Review!

I had to share a book review I found today for "Winning Mr. Wrong".  It made my day!!  Plus, if you leave a comment, you'll go in the drawing to win a copy of my story. How cool is that?


Book Review



Monday, October 18, 2010

Welcome Cindy Green!

I'm excited to introduce you to my friend, Cindy Green, who is a wonderful Inspirational writer!



Cindy, tell us about yourself.


Hi Marie. Good to be here today. To put it short and sweet, I'm an author, teacher, maid, mother, wife and accountant. I have degrees in history and education and taught middle school up until about six years ago. Now I stay home and homeschool my two boys. I was born in California and now live in North Carolina out in the country about a ½ hour from Raleigh . I've been married for 15 years. I'm published in several genres: Inspirational, historical, contemporary, young adult and suspense. Those are also the genres I like to read. I spend my (non-existent free time) reading, watching period dramas and doing my best to keep this house one step away from becoming a disaster area. To read my more in-depth bio, stop by my website.

Good grief, Cindy, you're a busy woman! I'm surprised you find time to write. What made you start writing?

I feel as though I’ve always been writing. It’s something I did as a preteen and continued into adulthood. I have a folder full of my first attempts at writing. In college, I didn’t do so much fiction writing as I had other things to occupy my mind. When I moved to NC and became a stay at home mom full-time, I started writing again—more as a cathartic thing than anything else. Only after finishing an entire manuscript did I think about publishing when my sisters encouraged me.



Cindy, you're a lot like me in writing before we married then finally start it afterwards. Is there a book that changed your life?

Of course, there is the Bible. It’s the book I live my life by. As a writer there are so many books that I enjoy but I’m not sure I would say they changed my life.


Good answer, Cindy! I have to agree with you there. If you can go back in time, where would you go?

I love the Regency/Georgian period in English history. I’d love to go back and visit—not live permanently as I really like indoor plumbing and modern medicine. I’d love to meet Jane Austen and learn more about writing from her and her uncanny way of observing people.


Cindy, I'm loving how much we're alike!! What is your favorite thing about yourself?

I suppose it’s my perseverance. Once I make a decision I stick with it and see it through. It’s the reason I graduated college. The reason I’m a published author today.



You go, girl! You have so many books out, which is a huge accomplishment, but do you have a favorite? If so, why.

Oh, wow that’s a hard one. I write in several genres and love each of them for different reasons. I guess I’d have to say, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Your Wedding. I mean, what’s not to like with a title like that, right? There’s a story to that all by itself. This book was my first full novel and it was a learning experience both in the writing and the publishing. I’ve grown as a writer since then, but I this story still affects me. I love the characters and I was amazed at how much my characters in this Inspirational novel affected people. I received emails from fans expressing their thanks for writing this book. I also had a few who asked if my hero, Randy, was a real person because they really wanted to meet him.


I have to admit, that title grabbed me and made me want to read the blurb! So then, what inspired you to write STRUCK BY CONSCIENCE?

Stuck by Conscience is my YA story. It’s the first in a three part teen series called the Faery Guardian series. I love reading YA literature. I think it’s a continuation of the kind of books I loved reading as a kid which continued as I taught middle school. Now my husband says I just won’t grow up. The first book I ever wrote (which remains unpublished) was for the young adult. Struck by Conscience came about because I got the idea of writing about a popular girl who doesn’t want to be popular. She sees the superficialness in it all—in her friends, in the life she chose. So much of teen lit portrays the popular kids as the antagonist. I wanted to show another side.




Tell us more about your story.

It’s a coming of age story, very sweet and cute. My main character Charisma is about to graduate from high school. She’s dealing with starting over as a college student. She also is faced by the decision she made in the last few years which alienated her closest friend, Heath, when she chose popularity over him. It’s received some terrific reviews from review sites but also teen readers. I love those! There is a fantasy element integrated in the story in that my main character has a faery guardian. There really isn’t any magic in the books. They feel more like a fairytale. The faery guardian in this story especially represents the adult figure in her life. She wishes she could get away from her and when that exact scenario arises she wonders if she’s ready for it or not. Just like growing up. I’m working on #2 right now, Sold my Soul to a Frog.




That is awesome, Cindy! Tell us about the exciting contest you’re having.

I’m having a contest to promote my sweet Christmas novel, All I Want for Christmas. The contest is going on now and will end on December 21st. I’m awarding prizes three times. One October 30th. One November 30th and the last one December 21st. To enter: view the book trailer for All I Want for Christmas and email me at contest@cindykgreen.com. In the email, list at least one gift that Kathryn received from her Secret Santa. What will you win? A pdf copy of one of my books as well as some Bath & Body Works goodies and a special chocolate treat—specifically the kind of chocolate my heroine in All I Want for Christmas craves each and every day.


Oh, how exciting! I'm going to check out your book trailer now! So where can readers contact you?

They can visit me at my Website or Blog. In addition, I have a Homeschooling Blog and a Teen Fiction Blog. They can also email me at cindy@cindykgreen.com. I’m on Myspace Facebook Twitter and Twitter for my YA friends. And I have a Newsletter. The latest edition should be going out soon.

Thanks for having me today, Marie.

You are welcome, Cindy!  It was great getting to know you!!

Friday, October 1, 2010

WINNERS!

I want to thank everyone who told me about your hero! It's good to know so many of us look to a father or our husband. I wish I could have given everyone a copy of my book, but I can't. Darn!  But I put all the names in a bowl and my grandson picked a name.

CONNIE BABE is the winner. She won a copy of my paperback - Heart Of A Hero.

Although I don't know who the three winners are from the contest my publisher had on Goodreads for Winning Mr. Wrong... I was told that 1803 people entered my contest. WOWZA!  I'm thrilled!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

~Marie~

Friday, September 24, 2010

Want to win a book?

There are actually a couple of ways to win. My publisher is giving away three copies of Winning Mr. Wrong - click here for more details.



And I am holding my own contest. If you want to win a copy of Heart Of A Hero - my newest release - all you have to do is leave a comment and answer this simple question. Who is your hero and why? Make sure you leave your email address in your comment so I can contact you to let you know if you've won. This contest will go until Oct. 1st.


When Summer Bennett returns to Richfield after a five-year stint at her aunt’s finishing school, she discovers a lot has changed. Her father has suffered a crippling injury, and Summer is desperate to get the money to pay for surgery that could allow him to walk again. She hears of a reward offered for the capture of a cunning gang of bank robbers, and her years of etiquette training fall by the dusty roadside.



What Summer doesn’t count on in her quest to capture the bandits is the competition from her family’s longtime friend, Jesse Slade. Now a deputy marshal and local hero, Jesse keeps thwarting Summer’s plans, just like he did when she wore pigtails. She would like nothing more than to use Jesse’s head for a slingshot target, but soon Summer finds her aim shifting from his head to his heart. Problem is, Jesse is engaged to her sister Violet.


For seven years, little Summer Bennett was the burr under Jesse’s saddle. Now he feels a different irritation as Summer is always on his mind—whether he wants her to be or not. But Summer’s father expects him to marry Violet, and he won’t let him down. So why does Jesse find himself encouraging Summer’s attentions, and why do sparks fly every time they are together?


~Marie~

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Heart Of A Hero - available now!

I honestly can't believe it. I got to hold my second book - Heart Of A Hero - today. My head is still spinning just thinking about how quickly all of this is going for me. Soon, this story will stand next to Winning Mr. Wrong in the book stores!

For all those Christian readers - and all those readers who love historicals - this is the story for you!!!  Check out the book trailer to the right of this blog. My friend, Ginger Simpson, did an awesome job putting this story into a video! Love the music, too!



There's a new hero in town . . .



When Summer Bennett returns to Richfield after a five-year stint at her aunt’s finishing school, she discovers a lot has changed. Her father has suffered a crippling injury, and Summer is desperate to get the money to pay for surgery that could allow him to walk again. She hears of a reward offered for the capture of a cunning gang of bank robbers, and her years of etiquette training fall by the dusty roadside.


What Summer doesn’t count on in her quest to capture the bandits is the competition from her family’s longtime friend, Jesse Slade. Now a deputy marshal and local hero, Jesse keeps thwarting Summer’s plans, just like he did when she wore pigtails. She would like nothing more than to use Jesse’s head for a slingshot target, but soon Summer finds her aim shifting from his head to his heart. Problem is, Jesse is engaged to her sister Violet.


For seven years, little Summer Bennett was the burr under Jesse’s saddle. Now he feels a different irritation as Summer is always on his mind—whether he wants her to be or not. But Summer’s father expects him to marry Violet, and he won’t let him down. So why does Jesse find himself encouraging Summer’s attentions, and why do sparks fly every time they are together?


*excerpt*


The deputy marshal must be the one holding me. She let her body relax against the contours of his body. Normally, she wouldn’t want to be protected and cared for by a man, but at the moment she was reluctant to break the spell.

She dared a peek at his face. His deep blue eyes grabbed her attention. Kind eyes. Sunlight glinted off the golden tones of his light brown hair. He must have sensed her watching, for his square jaw changed shape and a soft smile bracketed his mouth.

He was very handsome. She couldn’t have dreamed up a better vision of a hero, and dream it must be because things this good just didn’t happen to her. Safety and security spread over her like a warm blanket and she melted against him, closing her eyes while his long fingers continued to stroke her cheek. It was the first time in her life she had allowed a man to touch her like that—a soft stroke, a gentle caress—and the first time she had ever really relaxed in a man’s presence.

She sighed. Wonderful.

“How do you feel, Summer?”

The soft baritone voice rumbling in his chest seemed oddly familiar. Summer frowned and took a second peek at his hair and his mouth. He gave her a full smile. Awareness tugged at her memory and a large knot formed in the pit of her stomach. When recognition came, it struck like a thick piece of wood right between her eyes. She jerked, moving off the comfortable nest she had made of his chest.

“Jesse Slade?”

A crafty smile claimed his face. “The one and only, darlin’.”

She widened her eyes. “Darlin’? I’m not now, nor will I ever be your darling, Jesse Slade.” She couldn’t believe her rotten luck. She fought to move from his grasp, batting his hands away. “Get your hands off me.”

“Be still Summer, or—”

“Let me go,” she demanded.

“Tarnation, Summer.” His hands moved to her waist. “You’re as slippery as a wet weasel.”

“Quit touching me and put me down.”

Although he tried to hold onto her, she managed to slither from the horse.

“Of all the confounded foolish female stunts.” He pulled the horse to a halt and dismounted.

The moment her feet touched the ground, dizziness overtook her and she plopped down on her bottom. When Jesse reached for her, she slapped at his hands.

She glanced up at him from her undignified position and clenched her teeth. “You. Of all people, it had to be you.” Holding onto a stirrup, she pulled herself to her feet and gazed into the heavens. “Why Lord? Why me?”

“There’s no need to get your feathers ruffled.” Jesse looked at the blood oozing from her shoulder wound. “Look what you’ve done. You’re bleedin’ again.”

She glanced at her injury. It was worse than she thought, but she’d die before admitting it to him. She was not riding into town perched on Jesse’s lap for the whole town to see.

Click to purchase


~Marie~

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Welcome author - Liz Arnold!!

I want to welcome author, Liz Arnold to my blog. I want my readers to meet such a talented woman and hear about her story, MESSAGE TO LOVE.



Tell us about Liz Arnold.


I started writing in grade school and loved it. Newspaper and magazine writing grabbed me and I have a journalism degree. My favorite things to read growing up were historical romances, adventures, and history textbooks!


Liz, we could be soul-sisters! I love these as well. Is there a book that changed your life?


The book that changed my life was SIDDHARTHA by Hermann Hesse. I’ve read it many times over the years and it’s the only book I can say that about. It combines history, romance, inner struggle, and spirituality in a wonderful, thought provoking way. I realized that everyone experiences the same things in life, the difference is how we each choose to engage in life.



Liz, you have a great outlook on life!! If you could go back in time, where would you go?

I would love to visit ancient Rome. I’m a huge fan of Latin. I think everyone should study Latin regardless of vocation because it answers so many questions about language and customs. People live day to day not knowing why they say or do something and that causes a careless attitude. Understanding the background of anything improves a person’s respect for it. Latin is one of the sources of how and why we speak, write, and live the way we do today.


When you go back to Rome, take me with you, okay? lol  Liz, what inspired you to write MESSAGE TO LOVE?

A dream inspired me to write MESSAGE TO LOVE. It was a very vivid, intricate dream about a man on horseback racing through the night with a message in a pouch tied around his chest. It was his mission to deliver the message to someone, but the dream didn’t get that far. The images were very compelling and after some research, I discovered an incident known as “The Message To Garcia” that happened during the Spanish-American War in 1898. I took that event and fashioned my novel around it.


This is great, Liz! I'm glad I'm not the only one who has dreams that inspire me to write! So now, tell us about your story.

MESSAGE TO LOVE opens with Audra Wakely graduating from a girl’s finishing school in Richmond, Virginia in the spring of 1898. She receives news that her father, a tobacco farmer living in Cuba, has been jailed for sympathizing with rebels on the island who are fighting for freedom from Spain. She sells the Virginia tobacco plantation to the nasty neighbor Jasen Angler who has been wasting his own fortune but has enough money to pay Audra for Wakefield. She sets off for Santiago de Cuba where her father is imprisoned with money to bribe Spanish officials.

Things would progress smoothly if it weren’t for the involvement of a U.S. Naval Intelligence officer named Lt. Rollins McBride. He is ordered to find Audra’s father and bring him back to the States to be tried for treason because the government has decided to help the rebels in the freedom fight and they think Wakely is supplying the Spanish with guns and ammunition.

Even though Audra and Rollins share the goal of rescuing Greg Wakely, she wants him free and he wants him jailed in the U.S. They agree to work together to find Wakely but neither one knows that love will blossom between them along the way. When Rollins is away on the mission to help deliver the message to Cuban forces General Garcia, Audra finds her father but runs into trouble.

Excerpt:

“It was a dream, just a very bad dream.” She stepped back out of his hold. Clammy spots of moist heat lingered on her arms where his hands had been.

“I’m all right now.” Audra reached for the door and noticed the sickly sweet odor of liquor on his breath. “You can leave now. I want to go back to bed.” She pulled open the door and gestured into the hall.

“Sorry, but this time you’re going, too.” Rollins strode over to the dresser and pulled out a drawer. “Better pack. We have just under two hours.”

“I’m not in the mood for comedy, Rollins,” she sighed. “I’m really very, very tired. I’ve got to get some rest. Now---“

“Let me make myself clear.” He sounded gruff. “I said we’re leaving, and unless you want to get on a ship bound for Santiago with your shirttails hanging out, better change and get ready.” He made to leave the room. “I hope you have a shawl or something. It’s gotten cooler out, and we have half an hour in a wagon to get to port.” Then he vanished into his own room next door, leaving Audra gape-mouthed in the hallway.

“Who does he think he is?” She growled as she stamped her foot against the cold hard floor. “Infuriating! He is absolutely infuriating!” Audra heaved the door shut with gusto. “These are not my shirttails, either!”



Ohhh, this story sounds intriguing!  Liz, where can readers contact you?

I would love to mail bookmarks to readers! They can send me an email at lizarnoldromance@yahoo.com  Also, to purchase this story, here is the link - http://www.thewildrosepress.com/message-to-love-paperback-p-4088.html

Thanks for having me, Marie!

Liz

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

I'm #2!!

Can you believe it?  My story - Winning Mr. Wrong - made it to #2 on the BEST SELLER'S list in my local book store!  YIPPEE!!!

Saturday, September 4, 2010

My first public book signing

I DID IT!!!  Yes, I had my first public book signing...and SURVIVED!  lol  Actually, I had a really good turn out according to the book store owner. In fact, he told me because of the amount of books I sold today, that I'm now in the top 12 of best sellers. So I'll be back into the store on Monday and take another picture of my book sitting there with all the top sellers. WOO-WEE!!!

I want to thank those who came to support me, and for one particular friend who drove 40 minutes just to see me and buy my book. I LOVE YOU DAWN!

Okay, so here are my pictures...  My youngest daughter Heather was taking some of the pictures, but then she was called to work and so my other daughter and daughter's friend, Alisha (who is like a daughter to me as well) finished as my photographer.

Alisha - my 'other' daughter
This is the my youngest daughter being a spaz during the first part of the signing. Crazy girl...
He's buying a book for his wife. Isn't he a great husband!! (hi Cassie!)
This is my best friend in the whole world - DAWN! Everyone should have a friend like this!
My daughter told me I HAD to put this pic on my blog... Just ignore it...


THANKS EVERYONE FOR MAKING MY SIGNING SPECIAL!!

Friday, September 3, 2010

Dog Lover

I have to admit, I've always been a dog lover.  It all started when I was a young girl and my parents got us kids some kittens...and later discovered I was allergic to cats. It was their long hair, I think. Anyway, the family switched to dogs, and I don't seem to have the problems like I did with my allergies.  So all my live I've had a dog. Even in my married life.  We had a teacup poodle for several years, but he had seizures several times a day for many years.  Before we had him put to sleep, he was blind in one eye and almost blind in the second - and his back legs were so bad he couldn't hardly walk.  Poor guy. 

Anyway, it took almost two years, but we finally decided to get another dog.  My husband has always wanted a miniature schnauzer, so... that's what we got.  Today was Jack's first haircut.  Now our baby looks so grown up. (sobs)  But Jack still a cutie, just the same.

I'm posting some before and after pictures of Jack.  I'm hoping you'll leave a comment and share your dog experiences with me.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Heart Of A Hero

I'm excited to show off my new book cover for my next book - Heart Of A Hero, a historical romance.

There's a new hero in town . . .

When Summer Bennett returns to Richfield after a five-year stint at her aunt’s finishing school, she discovers a lot has changed. Her father has suffered a crippling injury, and Summer is desperate to get the money to pay for surgery that could allow him to walk again. She hears of a reward offered for the capture of a cunning gang of bank robbers, and her years of etiquette training fall by the dusty roadside.

What Summer doesn’t count on in her quest to capture the bandits is the competition from her family’s longtime friend, Jesse Slade. Now a deputy marshal and local hero, Jesse keeps thwarting Summer’s plans, just like he did when she wore pigtails. She would like nothing more than to use Jesse’s head for a slingshot target, but soon Summer finds her aim shifting from his head to his heart. Problem is, Jesse is engaged to her sister Violet.

For seven years, little Summer Bennett was the burr under Jesse’s saddle. Now he feels a different irritation as Summer is always on his mind—whether he wants her to be or not. But Summer’s father expects him to marry Violet, and he won’t let him down. So why does Jesse find himself encouraging Summer’s attentions, and why do sparks fly every time they are together?


Coming VERY soon to Walnut Springs Press!

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Newspaper Article

I'M IN THE NEWS!!!

Yes, my local newspaper decided to write an article on the new author in the area. (grins)

Since it's small and hard to read - this is what the article says:

Marie Higgins of Brigham City has always loved romance. She has also done a lot of reading and watched movies. Combine those interests with her vivid dreams in which scenes unfold, and you get an LDS romance novel.

Higgins will be at Reflections of Utah Book Store signing copies of her novel "Winning Mr. Wrong" on Saturday, September 4, from 1-3 pm. The book store is located at 47 South Main, Brigham City. Her second book, a historic novel is titled "Heart Of A Hero" and will be in area book stores by the end of the month.

Higgins has been writing since 1993 and she has many ideas. "When I'm writing one book, I get more ideas, they just keep coming," she explained.

The inspiration for "Winning Mr. Wrong" came when she was in the middle of planning and preparing a dinner in her ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. There are a lot of details involved with feeding up to 200 people. She didn't have time to start on the book, but "the characters wouldn't shut up and I didn't have time." But she was able to get the first chapter written and then the characters' voices left her alone long enough to get the dinner taken care of.

Higgins, who works full time at Workforce Services, does her writing on Fridays and weekends. She said the characters are constantly talking to her. "They write their own stories. I can't wait to see how they will end," she concluded.

For more information about Higgins, go to her blog at mareihiggins84302.blogspot.com

Friday, August 6, 2010

My first book signing

Today was magical! I couldn't have dreamed up a better book signing, either. Well...I could, but then I'd be skinny. hahaha  Anyway, I went to South Towne Expo Center in Sandy, Utah, today for the annual book seller's conference. There were tons of booths, and many book sellers and other people who were somehow involved in a store. Since I didn't see my publisher's booth (or the distributing company) right away, I walked up and down the booths trying to find it. Then I saw in big letters "Brigham Distributing" and I knew I was there. Their booth wall looked like a book shelf because of the serveral books being displayed, but then right smack in the middle - all in lights (and no, I'm not kidding!) - was a huge display of my book, Winning Mr. Wrong.


I squealed with excitement and slapped my daughter's shoulder to get her attention and showed her.  Then I saw my book on the little shelf (see off to the right of the big picture) and I squealed some more. I didn't care if I drew attention to myself. I was excited to see my print book. FINALLY!!  As soon as my Editor and the Marketing Director showed up, I took a seat at the little table and started signing - very surprised to see that I had a line of people waiting!!


What excited me even more was when people told me they'd read about my book in a magazine and couldn't wait to get a copy. Then to have one of them want to take their picture with me.... WOW!  What a thrill that was!

My publisher had a box full of my books. I'm not sure if it was 48 or 50, but I sold nearly every one of them!!! Never in my life had I felt like an author and to think this is just the beginning! (grins)

You can't tell I'm excited, can you?


Here is a pic with me and my Editor, Linda.


And this is the wonderful Marketing Director and Cover Artist - Amy.

THANK YOU WALNUT SPRINGS PRESS FOR MAKING MY DREAM COME TRUE!

P.S....your book store can order my book now. (grins)