I Must Be Dreaming...

Another Giveaway Hop!

2012-02-11T00:01:00.003-07:00

Announcing the LDS Authors Giveaway Hop

Featuring Books Written by LDS Authors

I'll be giving away a PRINT copy of my latest release, "Secrets After Dark" - a historical paranormal. All you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment with your email addy so I'll be able to contact the winner.

Residing at Thornton Manor to solve the mystery of her father’s death, Hannah Forester uncovers a myriad of secrets: a ghost haunting the manor, the disappearance of several young women, and a curse that could destroy the only man she has ever loved.

Now go to this link to find MANY other blogs who are giving away FREE stuff!! http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com...

Who doesn't like FREE??

2012-02-07T00:01:00.005-07:00

Welcome all! I'm doing another giveaway hop with several other blogs. My giveaway prize is a paperback copy of my newest release - "Secrets After Dark"!!!

Please follow my blog and leave a comment with your name or email addy so I can reach you.

Go to this link to find hundreds (yes, you read correctly) of blogs who are participating and giving away fun things! http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com

Grand Opening - Canyonland Press / eMagazine

2012-02-01T03:00:00.004-07:00

Some writer friends and I are starting a FREE e-magazine! We will be having a contest all month long to win a Kindle! I'd love for you to visit the blog and enter this contest - and send us feedback on what YOU as a reader would like to see us do with this magazine. www.canyonlandpress.com

Canyonland Press A Readers Magazine for the Inquiring Mind
Grand Opening Issue February 1, 2012

Our mission is to bring entertaining and important information to readers of all ages. Information like what is hot in the fiction world. Introduce them to new authors and genres. This innovative eMagazine is bi-monthly with an issue on the 1st and 15th of each month. Our goal is to be the word of mouth for readers. If someone loves to read, Canyonland Press will be the door to new and exciting adventures.

There will be features such as Madam/Monsieur Librarian Book Recommendation of the Month accompanied with a review by the Librarian and a spotlight of the author by one of our staff writers.

We encourage our readers to volunteer to participate in the reader book recommendation of the month, sharing with our readership their favorite reads.

Canyonland Press is a FREE eMagazine for readers. Find us at www.canyonlandpress.com

For our Grand Opening there will be a Kindle Giveaway, the contest will run during the month of February. All a participant will need to do for eligibility is help us Spread the word!

Grand Opening Giveaway rules

For more information check out our Contact Page

WINNER - of the First Kiss

2012-01-23T20:35:00.002-07:00

I want to thank everyone who posted their First Kiss on my blog. They were great!! It was hard to pick, so I closed my eyes and pointed to one... And the winner is...

LARA!!! Here is her first kiss experience -

we were at a friends house in the basement trying to figure out a show to watch when our friends ran upstairs to make popcorn leaving us alone. We talked for a bit when he got a phone call. He ran upstairs to take it, but returned just a minute later. He came into the room, smiled at me, put one hand on my cheek, lifted my chin and kissed me gently. Then his lips parted, my heart pounded and I tasted the sweetness of watermelon. That beautiful boy! I don't know if he planned it or not, but he ate the most wonderful watermelon before coming down the stairs and to me it was the syrup of the gods! There was no slurping or slopping, just soft and gentle kisses standing in the basement. Our friends came running down the stairs and rather that jumping away embarrassed he put his arm around my shoulders, gave me a squeeze and we spent the rest of the night doing who knows what! I don't remember the rest because I could think of nothing else!

Lara

The First Kiss

2012-01-10T19:16:00.001-07:00

Since it's the first of the year, I've decided I'm going to do a few blogs about the 'firsts' we've had in our life. So...today's blog is about your FIRST kiss.

I'll tell you mine, then I want you to comment and tell me yours. I'll pick my favorite and the winner will get a copy of my new release - Secrets After Dark in paperback. (so be sure to leave me your name and email addy so I can contact you if you're the winner)

My first kiss... I was in high school and VERY shy. (for those of you who know me, I can hear you laughing now!) But I was shy. I was a sophomore in high school and my first boyfriend was a junior. We were in the same band class. We used to meet during lunch in a vacant, dark room, and hold each other and kiss. I really thought I was in heaven! Little did I know, I wouldn't be in heaven until I kissed the man I would marry...which of course happened years later and a whole different story which I won't tell now. :)

Okay, so now it's your turn. Tell me of your first kiss!

Holding my newest book!

2012-01-06T15:37:00.001-07:00

There's really nothing that describes holding a book ... a book that YOU wrote! I love writing stories. I love when I get a new book cover. I love it when my books are published and I can actually start seeing $$. BUT...to hold my baby - the story that took a while to write and struggle to get into print... Is literally a dream come true! YEAH!! MY BOOK IS HERE!!

For some reason, I couldn't get a good picture. Either it was too dark or too bright. But, here is the best one I could take. lol

Watch my fun book videos!!

MY BOOK IS OUT!!!

2012-01-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

YEAH! "Secrets After Dark" is now available!! I'm doing the Snoopy Dance and I hope you'll join me! Bookstores can now order my book...and some have already ordered. So just check with the clerk at the store to see if it's there or when it will be there.

For those who are Kindle / Nook readers, my story isn't available electronically yet, but it will be VERY SOON!

Hannah clasped her hands to the material around her neck, bringing the garment closer together to ward off the coldness seeping in through her skin. With every step, she searched through the fog and strained to hear what was going on around her. Close by, bushes rustled and twigs snapped.

She glanced at the trees, wondering if she should climb one to get out of the path of the wild animal. Hannah gulped. Another twig snapped, and the growl of an animal rumbled through the air. She froze in fear, afraid to even breathe.

Through the fog, yellow eyes floated toward her, and within seconds the outline of the wolf appeared. He bared his teeth as he stared at her, stalking closer.

Hannah whimpered. “Please, don’t.”

The animal stopped and tilted his head, no longer threatening her with his nasty snarl. His eyes blinked. Against her ribs her heartbeat thundered, shaking her body even worse. Would he pounce on her and kill her immediately?

This was definitely the calm before the storm.

Even through her fear, she realized she’d never seen a more beautiful animal. Pure white fur covered the animal, and perfect ears stood straight on top his head. The long, bushy tail did not move at the animal stared at her.

Several minutes passed. She dared not move for fear of provoking the animal further. If the rapid speed of her heart didn’t kill her, the wolf certainly would. Silently, she prayed Morgan would save her as he did the last time. But as each minute passed, her hopes sank lower.

Finally the white wolf moved, taking a step closer to her. Clutching her shaking hands against her chest, Hannah squeezed her eyes closed and whimpered. The heat of his breath fanned her cold hands. She waited for his sharp teeth to sink into her skin, but instead she felt soft fur rubbing gently against her hand.

She peeked at the wolf, keeping as still as she could. He looked up at her, his large, yellow eyes staring wondrously into her eyes for a moment. Then he whined and nudged her with his nose before rubbing his head on her hand again.

The beast seemed friendly, but how could that be? Hadn’t he already killed women, including Sarah, the Thorntons’ servant?

The wolf sat in front of her and lifted his paw. Letting out a whine, he rested his paw on Hannah’s leg. Her heart leapt in terror. She had heard once that some animals play with their victims before they kill them, and perhaps this was the case now.

Keeping his eyes on her, the wolf touched her again. He let out a soft whine and tilted his head at her.

Hannah licked her lips. “Wh–what do you want?” she whispered.

The wolf rose to all fours and stepped in front of her as if he was leaving. He took a couple of steps then turned and looked back at her. He whined once more before turning and taking a few more steps, then stopping again to peer back at her, his eyes glowing.

Perhaps all the rumors of the white wolf had been false. Obviously, the animal wasn’t trying to hurt her, but help her. Hannah clasped her cold, shaky hands and walked toward him on quaky limbs. She kept a few steps behind him as he led her through the trees. Every so often, he turned and looked at her as if to make certain she followed.

Soon, the lights from the manor shone through the night like a beacon in the fog. Tears gathered in her eyes. At last she was safe!

Check out book trailers for "Secrets After Dark" -

http://youtu.be/w_XZYbKQ8VU

http://youtu.be/rel71riDBnE

We have a WINNER!! (Mid-Winter Blog Hop)

2011-12-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who participated. The winner of my story "Pretending You Are Mine" is...

ELIZABETH / Book Attict. I'll send you an email with my story.

CONGRATS!!

Blog Winner - for the Mistletoe Madness Hop

2011-12-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

GENA ROBERTSON, you are the winner! I will send you an email with the story, "The Sweetest Kiss".

Thanks to eveyone who entered!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!

~Marie~

Mid-Winter's Eve Blog Hop

2011-12-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

I'm doing another blog hop! This really is fun! Today I'm giving away a PDF format of my story "Pretending You Are Mine". All you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment with your name and email addy.

Switching roles and the pursuit of freedom come together in the hunt to discover who can be trusted and who is really the traitor during the Colonial times. Mercedes Maxwell’s sister’s last wish was for Mercedes to find evidence against Kat’s husband, William Braxton, and have him hung as a traitor to the crown. Mercedes isn’t naïve when it comes to capturing traitors, because her own deceased husband had once been an agent for the King when they lived in England.

When she meets William Braxton for the first time, all is not as it seems. Portraying her twin, Mercedes knows this is the only way to get close enough to William to discover his secrets. What she finds along the way are little surprises she hadn’t counted on, especially when she begins to give her heart to a man who may be a spy against the crown.

Hop to more blogs now so you can enter to win MORE prizes!! - http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com

There really is a Santa Claus!

2011-12-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

We took the grandkids to see the Christmas lights tonight. The place is called "Christmas By The Bay". It's at Willard Bay and the park is all decorated with fun lights. Afterward, we visited Santa Claus. My grandson, Xavier, has been a little stinker this year, and so he was going to tell Santa he'd be nice and mind his mommy and then ask Santa to be put back on the "Nice" list. lol And Gracelyn didn't cry this year when she sat on Santa's lap. She's getting to be a big girl. :)

But the big surprise came when Santa asked my husband to sit on Santa's lap. Santa even called him by name!! My grandkids were very impressed that Santa remembered Grandpa's name... Either that or they realized maybe Grandpa had been on Santa's naughty list too many times as a child. hahahaha

Anyway, here are some pictures!

GIVEAWAY for the Mistletoe Madness Blog Hop

2011-12-16T03:00:00.015-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm excited to be participating in the Mistletoe Madness Blog Hop. What is a blog hop? Well, each participating blog hosts a giveaway and then we link up together to allow our followers to hop from one giveaway to the next.

Join us and enter to win over 50 giveaways hosted by our participants - http://pjschnyder.com/blog/contests/
Plus, visit the link from Dec 16th to the 23rd for the chance to win the Grand Prize -> a Nook Color pre-loaded with books from our sponsor authors and many more.
(a form to enter will go live here on this page on Dec 16th and a winner will be chosen at random after the contest closes on Dec 23rd)

For my giveaway, I'll be giving one lucky winner a PDF copy of my Regency Romance, The Sweetest Kiss. All you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment with your name and email addy, and I'll pick a winner. It's that simple!!

Lord Trey Worthington isn’t about to give his heart to a woman. He does not want a marriage like his parents. But when his mother brings in a childhood acquaintance into the home to sponsor into society, Trey has to get Miss Faraday trained properly. The more he gets to know Judith, the more he yearns for something he doesn’t dare reach for. Judith is after a faithful husband—something Trey has been convinced most of his life he’ll never become.

Judith Faraday is only after one thing—to marry her Naval Officer and enjoy a life full of love. She’s doubtful her dream will ever come true while living as the ward to the dowager duchess. However, the longer Judith is with the dowager’s son, Trey, an attraction blossoms. Judith now wonders if God has different plans for her life, because Trey doesn’t believe in the sanctity of marriage . . . the very thing Judith cannot do without.

Gracelyn's 3rd Birthday

2011-12-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to believe my granddaughter is 3 years old already! It seems like yesterday I was at the hospital with my daughter while she was having hard labor--so much that the epidurals were not working. I'd never seen anyone in that much pain. Then Gracelyn came out...and she was such a beautiful baby. I cried. Okay, I'll confess, I cried when all three of my grandchildren were born because I was lucky enough to have watched the birth with all three!

So my little Princess wanted a Princess-themed party. I was able to get her cake and balloons, but the present we got her was a fairy toy - which Gracelyn also loves. She always talks about "Tink-bell". :) So...here are the pictures I took of her party.

Gracelyn and Grandpa

The grandkids with grandpa

My adorable grandkids!

Her mommy gave her the Princess doll from "The Frog Prince" movie

Her mommy got her a tea-cup service

Grandma & Grandpa gave her a trunk with fairy costumes

Here's our little Tink-bell fairy!

Cute Princess cake, don't you think?

Yeah, that's me in the green shirt having a little tea-party with my Princess Fairy

Our Princess / Fairy Birthday Girl!

Looking for Reviewers!

2011-11-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

I'm going to try something new here... I'm looking for people to read one of my stories (or all) and give me a review on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Goodreads. I'll give you the story for FREE as long as you can read it on a PDF file (Adobe). If you are interested, please leave me a comment with your name and email and which book you'd prefer to review. THANKS!!

Here are the stories I need reviews for:

(Colonial Romance)

Marcus Thorne, a notorious pirate who has taken land and become a highwayman, vows to uncover the secrets of the Royal Navy and exact revenge against the man who stole from him. Instead, he captures the enemy’s daughter and keeps her as his prisoner to satisfy the debt. Isabelle Stanhope sees her captor, this mysterious masked man, as a savior. She’d much rather be in his company than participate in the marriage arranged by her father.

Can keeping her prisoner set things right for Marcus, or is he about to suffer another theft—his heart?

(Christian Historical Romance)

Joshua Grayson is not happy about his new sister-in-law’s visit and he uses the term ‘sister-in-law’ loosely as Careen Kennedy Grayson was a complete stranger. Joshua’s brother, Matthew, left the family ranch in the dead of night to run away and wed a woman he’d never met. The fact Matthew was killed moments after walking out of the church with his new bride merely adds insult to injury. Joshua struggles with resentment and trying not to blame Careen for his brother’s death. But it is difficult not to harbor ill feelings when he knows she’s keeping secrets. Despite his suspicions, Joshua slowly grows attracted to Careen and even starts to like her. Unfortunately, Joshua knows all too well the folly of loving a woman he cannot trust.

Careen Kennedy Grayson was married and widowed within minutes of the other. When her obsessive cousin, Luther, arrives minutes after Matthew’s death, she knows deep down he’s the one who killed Matthew. Luther is arrested and held for trial while Careen takes her husband’s body back to his family. Soon after arriving at the loving Grayson ranch, Careen learns of her mother-in-law’s heart condition. Unwilling to cause undue stress, Careen decides to wait until after Luther’s trial to speak the full truth of their son’s death. Soon Careen grows embedded in family and ranch life, getting closer to the Grayson’s with each passing day. She finds herself unnaturally drawn to Joshua and she knows their budding attraction will only complicate matters… Especially when the family discovers her cousin did indeed kill Matthew.

(Regency Romance)

New book cover for "Secrets After Dark"

2011-11-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to show you my new book cover! Can you hear me screaming with happiness over here? lol I'm also going to give you a teasing unedited excerpt. (wink)

Thornton Manor is a place of secrets, from the ghost haunting the East Wing, to the young women who have simply vanished from the estate. Hannah Forester visits Thornton to uncover the mystery of her father’s death, but will its secrets be the death of her, too?

A knock on her bedroom door made Hannah jump. “Who is it?”

“Francine.”

Hannah released a pent up breath. “Come in.”

Her maid bustled in. “I’m here to get you ready for bed.”

Eager to crawl between the blankets and snuggle against the pillows, Hannah hurriedly undressed. While Francine brushed Hannah’s hair, the maid babbled about the friends she’d met in the Thornton’s staff.

“Although they are very kind, I fear they are keeping secrets,” the maid said.

Hannah yawned. “What secrets, do you think?”
“Well, there was no mention of the East Wing ghost, but instead they talked about the cursed white wolf that roams the land.”

Arching an eyebrow, Hannah met her maid’s gaze in the vanity mirror. “A white wolf? Are you certain they didn’t mean wild dogs?”
“No dog, Miss Hannah. They definitely said white wolf—and said he was cursed.”

“Hmm, I wonder if the wolf and the ghost share tea every evening. Do they meet on the cursed island, as well?”

Francine snickered. “Your sarcasm is not becoming, Miss Hannah.”

Hannah laughed. “Forgive me. I’m tired.”

“I believe the servants,” Francine continued. “They say every full moon the white wolf comes out of hiding and feeds upon the innocent.”

Hannah scrunched her forehead. “Feeds upon the innocent? What does that mean? And how does the wolf know if a person is innocent or not? Does he ask them before he kills and eats them?”

“It’s rumored that the wolf only kills virgin women.”

“Once again, Francine. How does the wolf know they’re virgins?” Hannah rubbed her forehead. “Oh, why must you believe these stories? Haven’t you stopped to think the others are telling you this to frighten you?”

“Oui.” Francine stopped the brush in mid-stroke and leaned closer to Hannah’s ear. “Why, and for what purpose? Why would they wish to scare us away?”

“Why, indeed.” Hannah tapped her finger on her chin. “I think they’re creating these stories to cover the truth.”

“Which is?”

“I don’t know, but I will find out.”

“How?”

Hannah shrugged. “That’s a good question, one I will ponder tomorrow.” She exhaled slowly. “Because tonight I plan to rest.”

Francine placed the brush on the vanity table and turned toward the door. “I shall be in my room if you need me.”

“Good night, Francine. Please lock your door.” Hannah tried not to grin. “With the roaming wolf who seduces virgins and musical ghost, I’m quite certain you’ll need as much protection as you can get.”

Francine shook her head and hurried out of the room. Hannah chuckled as she pulled back the blankets and slipped between the sheets. After switching off the lamp, she thumped her fist into the pillow and curled on her side. What she needed was a couple hours sleep if she intended to search through the house tonight. Although she didn’t believe these ridiculous ghost stories, there was still something not quite right in the manor.

Just as her body relaxed, the floor creaked. She snapped her eyes open to cloaking darkness.

She pulled the sheet to her neck. Soft noises shuffled in the room against the far wall. Her heart slammed against her ribs and her breathing became ragged.

Straining, she cocked her head toward the noise, but heard nothing more. She rubbed her eyes and tightened the sheet around her before curling back under the covers. Fear threatened to close her throat. She squeezed her eyes shut, concentrating on her surroundings. She should really pull on her wrapper and investigate, but she didn’t dare. Not yet.

She rolled in bed and peered toward the window. The moonlight peeked through the slit in the curtains, but did little to brighten the room.

So intent on listening, her forehead pounded in a quick rhythm. She breathed a deep sigh, rotated her shoulders and once more closed her eyes. Old homes settled and groaned, and certainly the manor was no different.

The floor creaked again and she stiffened.

Heavy breathing floated through the air. She focused on the dark shadows playing marionette with her sanity. Someone was in her room. But how? Her gaze darted to the closed door. Nobody had entered or she would have heard.

As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, a tall shadow appeared at the foot of her bed. She managed to discern someone dressed in a cape with a hood pulled low to hide their identity. A man, she assumed, with wide shoulders. Darkness covered his face.

Was this the ghost the housekeeper, Mrs. White had spoken of?

Hannah wanted to scream, but fear kept her mute. Should she lie still and pray he’d disappear?

The stranger’s breathing grew heavier, as did her own. The figure didn’t move. Building the courage she needed to scream, she opened her mouth, but the caped figure held up his hand, his finger pointing at her.

"You're in danger here. You must leave."

COMING VERY SOON TO BOOKSTORES AND KINDLE!!

Let the countdown begin!

2011-11-05T10:48:00.000-06:00

Forgive me, but I can't wait until the release of my next Walnut Springs book - "Secrets After Dark". This is my first historical paranormal romance, and I'm eager to see how well it's accepted by readers. So far, all my stories have had a light, fluffy kind of theme to them with humor. Not "Secrets After Dark". This one has a Gothic theme, and it's a little...eerie and very serious.

So today I'm going to tease a little and share an unedited excerpt of my story. This will be the first of many teasers before my book is released. (grins)

ENJOY!

** Hannah Forester is determined to find her father’s killer, but is shocked to discover the one man who can help her is not completely human. Forced to work with the mysterious Morgan Thornton to break the curse that turns him into a wolf whenever he desires a woman, Hannah stumbles across dangerous secrets surrounding the manor and Morgan’s family. In search for the truth, Hannah finds not only her father’s killer, but also a hidden strength and the only man she could ever give her heart to.

Morgan Thornton is determined to protect Hannah from his family secrets, but he can’t stop wanting to hold her and become a man again, instead of the beast the witch’s curse turned him into. Now the witch wants Hannah because of what she knows, and Morgan will do anything to save her, even if it means destroying the witch and condemning himself to live with the curse forever.**

North Devon, England 1880

No turning back now.

Hannah Forester gripped the plush edge of the coach seat, and stared anxiously through the window as the landscape whisked past. The village of Exmoor brought shivers to her as it was, but when she spotted Thornton Manor looming ominously ahead, chills rushed up her spine as the whispered secrets of this place whirled through her mind.

Hannah’s every instinct screamed to turn tail and run, but her heart told her the answers to her father’s murder lay here.

She glanced across the coach at her French maid, Francine. The younger woman sat ramrod straight with her lips pulled tight, her gaze aimed out the window. As Thornton Manor came more fully into view the color slowly drained from the maid’s face.

“We’re almost there.” Hannah managed a tight smile, twisting her hands in her lap, a nervous habit she’d never managed to break.

Francine took an unsteady breath. “Are you certain this is what you want, Mademoiselle?” A slight tremor shook her. “After all, Thornton Manor is haunted.”

Nervously Hannah laughed. “Don’t tell me you believe all those silly ghost stories.”

“Oui. They are true.”

Hannah arched an eyebrow, suppressing her own trepidations, and taking hold of logic. “Do you have firsthand knowledge?”

“No, but—”

With a flick of the wrist, Hannah brushed the maid’s concerns away. “I think the stories are told to keep people away.”

Francine nodded. “It’s working rather well, if you ask me. There aren’t many women who volunteer to stay there.”

“I have no other choice.” Hannah grumbled as helplessness filled her. “According to my father’s journals, Morgan Thornton was the last man to visit him. I need Mr. Thornton’s help if I’m to discover the murderer’s identity.”

“I understand, Mademoiselle, but there has to be another way.” Francine peeked out the window and shivered.

“When I met Mrs. Thornton in the marketplace the other day,” Hannah continued, “and she invited me to the manor to meet her brother-in-law, Jonathan, I knew this was the only way I could get inside to ask questions.”

“Doesn’t Mademoiselle Thornton think you’re coming to court Mr. Jonathan?”

“Yes, and she must continue to believe that.” Hannah adjusted the cloak over her traveling gown. “My father was a close friend with the oldest brother, Morgan. I’ve tried to contact him, but the letters I’ve sent over the past year have gone unanswered. The Thornton’s are purposely keeping secrets. I feel it. Getting inside the manor is the only way to find what I’m searching for.”

“Then I pray you find what you need quickly. I cannot bear the thought of staying longer than a week in such a haun—” Francine flicked her gaze toward Hannah, “dreary place.”

The vehicle slowed as it neared the house. Hannah leaned against the seat and in silence, and collected her wits. If only she felt as brave as the front she presented her maid. Hannah bunched her fingers in the folds of her velvet traveling dress and nibbled her lower lip. She must do this to discover the truth. She prayed she’d be able to accomplish her goal.

The vehicle jerked to stop and her uncle’s footman, Jeffries, opened the door. The older servant helped her down, and as soon as her feet touched the pebbled ground, she glanced up at the towering Thornton Manor. Trepidation clutched her throat.

“I’m not afraid,” she whispered, taking her first step toward the dark, foreboding structure. “And I absolutely do not believe in ghosts.”

For one fleeting moment, the shuffling of the maid’s footsteps fell into rhythm with Hannah’s. Her nerves eased slightly knowing she wasn’t in this alone. Francine would help her through thick and thin. Maid or no, the other woman was Hannah’s friend. Jeffries waddled closely behind the women.

The morning air settled around them still as death. Autumn leaves of red and brown littered the walkway and crunched beneath Hannah’s feet. North Devon’s chilly air nipped at her cheeks and she pulled the bonnet ties more tightly around her ears. The scent of burning fields hung thick as area landowners prepared for another planting season.

The place where she would find answers lay straight ahead, creeping closer with each step. As she walked from beneath the shade of the trees into the sunlight, the estate rose above her in a crescendo of magnitude. She stopped and sucked in her breath.

The red-bricked manor rose with breathtaking splendor into the sky. The distinctive turrets and pinnacles masterfully structured. The manor looked out over acres of parklands, gardens, lakes and woods. Francine’s gasp overrode Hannah’s. Two large rock columns cornered the house, and at least three sections sprawled from the structure. Only a few curtains hung open at the many windows, but most were hidden behind closed draperies. Her curiosity piqued. What secrets did the draperies conceal?

She stood still for several minutes, marveling at the glory before her. Yet a strange eeriness settled around the place. Darkness lurked in the East Wing as if a silent storm cloud resided.

As she studied each window on the left side, her interest grew. The curtains of one window moved. She squinted and stepped closer but was too far away to see anything or anyone.

Slowly she continued toward the manse, gooseflesh rising on her arms with each step. The nape of her neck tingled and Hannah would swear she could feel someone’s eyes upon her.

The bitter cold seeped through her cloak as she moved into the house’s shadow, and the loss of the sun added to the eerie sensations assailing her body. Her heartbeat quickened, and her palms grew moist in the folds of her dress.

Falling In Love Again

2011-10-22T21:11:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to announce book #2 of my Patriot's Saga is now on Kindle! (coming soon to Nook)

http://amzn.com/B005YF5PBA

Can keeping her prisoner set things right for Marcus, or is he about to suffer another theft—his heart?

**excerpt**

Someone standing next to Isabelle pushed her forward and she stumbled into another highwayman. He grasped her shoulders to keep her from falling. As soon as she gained her bearing, she took one step back and looked at the large man. Shaky breath caught in her throat. Black silk cloth covered the top part of his face—save for the eyes—which served as a mask as it hid his true identity. Once-white linen stretched across wide shoulders and broad chest, opened at the throat to display sun-bronzed skin. Black jackboots and breeches molded his powerful legs. An ebony wool tricorn decorated with a feather as black as the silken mask topped his equally dark head. And he was muscular beyond belief!

The fearsome highwayman who’d forced them out of the stagecoach stepped next to the man still holding onto her arms. “Captain Hawk, all the passengers are here, sir.”

A gasp caught in her throat. Captain Hawk! Here stood the very person responsible for killing her father. Rumors about a retired pirate who’d turned highwayman had spread through England, especially after her father and his friends had died.

Desperate to stay strong, she squared her shoulders and met his hooded gaze. The captain’s mouth dropped opened. His stare touched every part of her from the top of her bonnet down her body to her booted heels. Did he know she was Commodore Stanhope’s daughter?

“Very well, Simon.” Although the captain spoke to his crewmember, Hawk’s eyes never left hers.

Slowly, the leader of this ruthless gang of cutthroats grinned. “Who do we have here?” He swept his gaze over her once more in leisure.

“I—I—I—” She couldn’t tell him her real name. He might remember her father, then she would end up with her sire’s doom.

“Miss, will you please remove your bonnet?”

“Sir, I don’t see why I need—”

He stepped closer and yanked on the silken pink ribbons securing the bonnet to her head then pushed it off. She reached for it, but the bonnet fell by her feet as the wind blew unbound curls against her face. His eyes widened.

Fear suffocated her. Why did he act in such a manner? Perhaps she would indeed have to defend herself against him.

“What’s your name?” His voice boomed louder than before.

She gulped, praying the Lord would forgive her for lying. “Miss Stan—ley. Belle Stanley.”

Seconds ticked into incredibly long minutes of silence. Only the wind slapping through the trees and the softening cries of the stagecoach passengers blended together to disrupt the stillness.

Finally, the captain’s jaw hardened. “Miss Stanley, what is your purpose for this trip?”

She gnashed her teeth. Curse those stubborn highwaymen thinking they owned the world. “I—I’m on my way to New York to settle my father’s affairs.”

“Where are you from?”

“I’m from England. I arrived just this morning.”

“Why would any father send his daughter across the sea during turbulent times such as these?”

“My father didn’t send me. He’s dead, if you must know.”

“I see.”

His gaze swept over her again as his finger smoothed across his thick, black mustache. “Tell me, Miss Stanley. How long ago did your father die?”

She hesitated, knowing she couldn’t tell him the truth. “Just a few months past, sir.”

“Indeed?” He folded his arms across his wide chest. “Has the length of time for mourning changed? The last I heard, a family member wore black for a year.” He motioned his hand in front of her. “Yet there isn’t a stitch of black on you. Can you tell me why that is?”

She fought the urge to slap his arrogant face. He was correct, of course, and his sharp wit made her pause. Why couldn’t she think of an impressionable answer? It was as if a fog consumed her mind.

“I—I—”

The wind lifted the midnight black hair resting on the back of his nape, and blew the edges of his opened shirt. A square jaw and thick neck emphasized his masculine build. Indeed, men would fear the captain even without his mask, but Isabelle couldn’t allow the horror stories to make her cower.

Beside her someone nudged her arm. She glanced toward the person. Mrs. Winters, her companion, gave her a small nod. So relieved the older woman wasn’t dead, Isabelle wanted to throw her arms around her companion, but before she could, Mrs. Winters cleared her throat, stepped closer to the captain and aimed her gaze toward him.

“Sir, you must forgive Miss Stanley for not being in proper mourning attire. There was hardly time, and certainly no funds. Her father didn’t leave a shilling for her in London, which is why she had to sail to New York where he resided. Once she receives money from his estate, she will purchase suitable black gowns, I assure you.”

Tears of respite stung Isabelle’s eyes. She’d have to thank her companion later for coming to her aid and thinking up the lie so quickly.

The tilt to Hawk’s head and his dark scowl showed his irritation as his gaze pinned the older woman. “Pardon me, Madame. Who are you?”

“Mrs. Winters. I’m Miss Stanley’s companion.”

“Ah yes, I see.” His face hardened. “If you will, Mrs. Winters, don’t speak until you are spoken to.”

The older woman gasped. “Why I never—”

“I’m quite certain you are correct, but then you have never known anyone like me.” He took several steps back to look over his prisoners. “And I hope all of you learn your place posthaste.” The volume rose in his voice. “Because you are all my prisoners, you will follow my rules or end up with the fate of your stagecoach driver and guard.”

Isabelle let out a rushed breath. Why had she even dared hope the leader of this group of men would have any morals or show a shred of kindness?

Amongst those standing with Isabelle as prisoners were a widow and two older gentlemen. The woman sobbed into her handkerchief, wrenching Isabelle’s heart. Her older companion, Mrs. Winters, clutched shaky hands against her bosom, her face deathly pale, mirroring Isabelle’s own fear. Highwaymen violated women and took much more than their dignity. She vowed she would not let Captain Hawk take hers.

Hawk turned to one of his men who stood by the stagecoach. “Simon, escort the prisoners to the wagon so we can take them away.”

“Aye, Captain.” The other masked man motioned his pistol in the air. His long, dirty blond hair waved in the wind. He smirked, displaying a full set of yellowish-brown teeth. Everyone fell into step and walked in the direction Simon indicated. As Isabelle shuffled a couple of feet, Hawk strode to her and grasped her elbow.

“Miss Stanley, you won’t be going with them.” The corner of his mouth lifted slightly. “I have a more suitable place for you.”

Pretending You Are Mine

2011-10-21T17:11:00.001-06:00

I want to introduce you to my story, Pretending You Are Mine. This is for Kindle lovers - and soon will be on Nook.

**excerpt**

Clutching her thick skirt, Mercedes scurried toward the end of the building and ducked behind the far corner. Another street opened before her, spectators gawked at the commotion she created.

She didn’t stop to rest, but kept running until another alleyway loomed ahead. Looking over her shoulder, she breathed a heavy sigh that the men following were farther behind. But within seconds, more men had joined the chase.

She turned another corner and ran into a solid form. A scream tore from her throat as she grasped his arms to keep from falling. Two strong arms circled her waist. She looked up into the face of a soldier wearing a red coat; the symbol of those men serving England, her mother country. The white periwig covered his head, the queue held in place by a jaunty black ribbon.

“My, my.” He grinned, tightening his arms around her. “What lovely package do I have here?”

Instead of being relieved to see him, she worried he would believe she stole the apple – just as the others did. “Please sir, release me at once.” She squirmed, but to no avail.

“’Tis all right, my dear. I shall protect you.” He gave her a wink. “Have I not always been your champion?”

His words confused her, but she didn’t have time for an explanation. “Please, if you would be so kind. I must get away.” The shouts of pursuing men grew louder. “You do not understand. I cannot be caught. I fear they will put me in jail for a crime I did not commit.”

The soldier raised a dark eyebrow. “What stories are you telling now, Mrs. Braxton?”

She gasped and stared at the man holding her. Mrs. Braxton? He thought she was her sister? But of course he would. She and Kat were identical twins. And…nobody knew Kat had died.

As she opened her mouth to deny his comment, heavy footsteps rounded the corner. Panic gripped her, and she couldn’t breathe. They had come to take her away.

Daring to peek over her shoulder, it surprised her to see the men’s expressions showed no anger. Instead of scowls aimed at her, their brows were creased, mouths pursed tightly as they glared at the soldier. Confusion filled her and she slowly shook her head, trying to understand what was happening.

“Release her at once, sir,” the apple cart’s owner said to the soldier.

A chuckle rumbled through the soldier’s chest, but he didn’t let her go.

Thundering hooves of a horse bore down upon them. Mercedes switched her attention to the man on the steed. The small crowd parted, and the man atop the animal dismounted. His horse had whipped up a cloud of dust in the dingy alley and she waved her hand in front of her face to keep from sneezing. The sight of the rider left her speechless and a bit weak at the knees.

His rugged appearance shocked her, his strength evident in his lean arms and legs. Rather than the fancy clothes of the English gentry, the beige shirt and brown leather vest of a farmer’s attire stretched taut across his wide chest, and the black material of his trousers molded to his legs and fit snugly into his black knee-boots. But this man was no farmer. That much appeared evident by the way he carried himself as he strode toward her, his step too confident, too graceful.

When he neared and she gazed upon his face, her breath caught in her throat. The sun had turned his skin a light brown, and the sureness of his jaw bespoke authority. Chestnut hair tousled by the wind framed his head, and she had a sudden urge to swipe the unruly locks off his forehead.

He was quite handsome, if she dared admit, and he literally made her lungs stop working. Never had that happened to her from just admiring a man. Looking into his fiery blue eyes, she swallowed hard.

He stopped mere inches away, towering over both Mercedes and the soldier like a dark cloud of doom. She leaned her head back to take in his height.

The handsome man met the soldier’s stare. “Sir, will you kindly remove your hands from my wife?”

Her jaw dropped. Wife?

“Correct me, Mr. Braxton, but was your wife not running from you?” The soldier shook his head. “There must be a reason for that.”

She sucked in her breath. Mr. Braxton? This handsome and very powerful man was William Braxton, her dead sister’s husband?

When the man in question settled his dark eyes on her, his expression softened and a smile touched his mouth. “Yes, my dear. Please inform the captain and all these good people why you were running from me.”

The pulse in her temple grew stronger. She couldn’t speak, and she couldn’t think. Telling him about Kat’s death was crucial, yet she didn’t want to do that in front of all of these spectators.

If only her mind would work with her tongue and voice, perhaps she wouldn’t feel like a trapped animal. But more importantly, why did she find her brother-in-law dangerously attractive?

Coming to Philadelphia was worse than she'd ever imagined.

purchase link at Amazon's Kindle - http://amzn.com/B005OU7VFS

Why Women Cry In Church

2011-09-25T14:04:00.001-06:00

Today hubby and I had to talk in church. I'm a crier (never used to be!) so I picked the topic "Why Women Cry In Church". I wanted to throw in my voice - which means I had to make people laugh. And I'm happy to say, I accomplished my goal. The added bonus was that I did NOT cry! Of course, I had an experience I wanted to share, but because I'd talked long enough as it was, I didn't share that experience...which would have made me cry.

Anyway, for this talk, I wrote a poem - hoping to start out my talk making the congregation chuckle. It worked. So...I'm sharing my poem with you now.

Ode To The Crying Woman - by Marie Higgins

There she sits on the bench half asleep

Earnestly struggling, praying to keep awake.

Oh, why does she struggle so

Fighting and nodding off, yet not so much that her neck would break.

Suddenly a speaker’s topic sparks her interest

She straightens, focuses, and becomes in tune with his part

Nothing to disturb her

She understands, relates,and soon feels the tug on her heart.

Oh no! Not again.

She won’t, can’t, refuses to let this feeling transpire

It’s just like all the other times

Tight throat, stinging eyes, can’t really explain – it’s like singing to the choir.

All it takes to start crying is

One word, one phrase, and she’s quickly searching for a tissue.

Beside her, she receives a look from her husband

Questioning, rolling of eyes, and she doesn’t want to explain the issue.

Is she really the only one

Sniffling, blubbering, a nose so red, and liquid in her eyes

She must stop this inanity

Blame it on allergies, make up, or something she should despise

Why do women always have these feelings

Overflowing emotions, sadness – yet happy, simple things to make them weep

Why can’t men act this way

Just once, okay, maybe twice, or are they not affected because they’re asleep?

Unfortunately, this is not an allergy

Not make up, and nothing to fear, this tender, womanly feeling comes from above

But the truth of the matter is simple

Believable, hard to deny, the feeling in her heart is Love.

Yeah, you can tell I'm not a poet, but hey...it worked. (grins)

Pirates, anyone?

2011-09-17T17:57:00.000-06:00

Maybe the reason I like Halloween so much is because I love dressing up - or seeing others dress up. So today was Pirate Day in my little town (actually by Willard Bay which is close enough), so my daughter and I took her kids and went to see the pirates. We heard Captain Jack Sparrow would be there, and that's good enough reason for me to go!!! So, without further ado, here are some fun pictures I took.

Grandson, Xavier, on Black Pearl

Granddaughter, Gracelyn, on the Black Pearl

This particular pirate had some Pirate Tales to tell me...got an idea for a new story! Also, he explained the difference between a cutlass and a sword. Very interesting!

FINALLY! We got to meet Captain Jack Sparrow!

Xavier loved this pirate, but Gracelyn did NOT want to get near him. I don't know...does he look scary to you? lol

My daughter, Heather with ... her hero!

So you knew I HAD to get my picture taken, right? lol

Fun horseback riding, too!

Before a storm hit us, we were lucky enough to watch a sword fight! It was awesome...and Captain Jack was very silly!

So, now I have a new story to write. I LOVE IT!!

Meet Regency author - Wanda Luce

2011-09-11T13:12:00.000-06:00

I had the privilege of meeting Wanda Luce in person when I was invited to a multi-author signing at The Book Table in Logan, Utah. Wanda is with the same publisher I'm with, and she's such a sweet woman! Not only that...if you love reading Regency Romance and your favorite stories are Jane Austen's stories...you will definitely LOVE Wanda Luce! When I read her book, "Lydia" I felt like I was reading one of Jane Austen stories. I had to keep checking the front cover to make sure! Really!! Wanda's writing is that good!!

Okay, so now let me introduce you to this wonderful author.

Wanda, please tell us a little about yourself.

Wow, a little about myself… The “in a nutshell version?” Definitely synonymous with Hitchcock’s formula for good fiction: “A good story is life with the dull parts taken out.” So, even though my non-fiction life has hardly had a dull moment, my “short” account may have your readers yawning.

I was born in Burlingame, California but lived in San Mateo until I was four when our family moved to Carson City, Nevada. When I was thirteen, we moved to Reno. At 18 I left home for BYU. After three years as an undergraduate student, I interrupted my studies to serve an LDS mission in Germany. Afterward, I returned to BYU and graduated with a B.A. in German Literature. If you think Goethe is tough in English, you ought to try understanding it in old German—scary. While at BYU, I taught two years of German at the MTC and one year of German 101 on campus. I also played in the BYU Symphony, danced on the Ballroom Dance Team, and …fell in love with my husband. The first time I met my husband he was still dating a former roommate. My first thought upon seeing him? Wow, that is the most gosh darn drop dead gorgeous man I’ve ever seen! A year later we were married, and we spent our first eight years of marriage honeymooning in the luxury of San Diego until my husband’s job change brought us back to Utah. We have raised two beautiful young men. Once our boys were in school, I began my teaching career and am currently teaching German at two Salt Lake City high schools. But…that is just my side job. Writing has now become my passion, and one I pray I can hone successfully. So, you made it through my long-winded “a little about yourself.” Thanks, though for taking the time. If I had another ten thousand pages to fill I could tell you the really “good story with the dull parts taken out!”

Wanda, you've been all over it seems. And I bet you have many stories to tell! But right now, we want you to tell us about your new release "Lydia", and what inspired you to write this.

During a particularly challenging few years of my life, I decided to reread all of Jane Austen’s books. When I was done, I read all of the books in the library pamphlet with a list of Jane Austen spin-offs. Next, I turned to the internet for titles of other Regencies but quickly discovered that I had to be careful which ones I picked (Yikes! too much information in some of those). So, I found the Clean Romances group on Goodreads and started choosing my reads from there. One day, however, before I found that resource for clean Regencies, I was complaining of the dilemma to my husband and his response? “Well, then write one.” Yeah, I thought. Why not? So I sat down and after a period of toying with a possible opening line, I typed: Condolences were felt though no longer expressed that the lovely Lydia still stood in want of a husband.

Wow, that was fun! I said to myself. Let’s see if I can come up with a few more lines. Well, a few became a page, two pages became ten, then ten a hundred, and so on until I had written a whole manuscript! The original manuscript had 142,000 words and was simply titled Lydia. I had only written that monster for fun. And what fun it was, too, but after a while, the bug to revise hit. So, I revised, revised, revised, r e v i s e d, and r e v i s e d. I felt destitute when I came to the end of the last revision (ha, ha, NOT) or so I thought. I didn’t want to say goodbye to my characters. Then, I decided it couldn’t hurt to submit that heavy tome to a few agents and publishers to get some feedback (after doing a little research, I had a box all ready for a pile of rejection notices), and to the shock of the entire natural world, I actually got two (almost three) offers! When Walnut Springs Press sent me an email saying they wanted to publish Lydia, I jumped up and started screaming with excitement. Everyone in the house ran to be sure I wasn’t dying. And yes, I was dying, dying of joy…and shock. Don’t you just love happy endings? Well, that wasn’t one of them, it was a HAPPY BEGINNING to a new life for one entirely obscure little person just quietly going about her life.

Wanda, I could definitely see that Jane Austen was your favorite when I started reading your book. So how did you become a writer? What or who inspired you?

Oops, I guess I already answered this one above. But just let me add this one little footnote that says more than all the lengthy wordiness above. If credit could go to anyone or anything, it would have to be my mother, the greatest mother ever born, whose love, support, example, encouragement, and teachings made me who I am.

How wonderful!! I owe credit to my mother in a lot of things as well! So what stories are in your future?

My husband asks me that a lot. Specifically, I don’t know yet. Right now I am revising my second Regency that I hope to have ready for submission before Christmas (fingers, toes, and hairs crossed). I love the Regency Era and can’t see myself writing in any other genre. English literature has me heart and soul, I am afraid. Learning to write great Regency is a goal I don’t imagine I’ll abandon. Would you like to read the blurb for the Regency I hope to submit soon? I hate to impose upon you all, (no, actually I love it), but here it is:

Lord Rupert is the rakish son of the Marquess of Lansdowne. His covert escapades to ferret out a ring of aristocratic criminals requires that he disappear into the British countryside for a short time under a false identity. Here he meets Alexandra Dancy, a country miss whose family hides its aristocratic origins because they must guard a dark secret. How can the two overcome the prejudices and hidden identities that divide them?

Sorry, you will just have to wait and read it to learn the answer.

Wanda, I have had the privilege of reading through the beginning of this new story, and I think it's going to be another WINNER! So...how can your fans get a hold of you? Do you have a blog, website, or a newsletter?

I love to hear from my fans and hope they will visit my blog/website at www.wandaluce.blogspot.com or send me and email at lucewandarings@gmail.com Every Wednesday I post snippets from my WIP and hope all who are interested will hop over to my website to learn more about Lydia and to read the exerpts from my WIP that I have posted there. Any who are interested can purchase Lydia on Amazon.com, at Deseret Book, at Brigham Distributing, and at many LDS bookstores, including BYU. Lydia contains no references to the LDS Church or its beliefs, rather it is written in harmony with the moral standards taught by the Church, so it is a good fit for Regency lovers who want clean romance.

Thanks so much, Marie, for interviewing me.

You are welcome, Wanda, and thanks for taking time to be my special guest today!

Dream Come True

2011-09-03T19:13:00.000-06:00

Some of you might find me a little strange...or a LOT strange, but that's just me. While growing up, my mother was a fan of the 50's & 60's music. I grew up loving Elvis, Paul Anka, Everly Brothers, Beach Boys...and yes, even Engelbert Humperdinck. I played Barbies with my younger sister and when our Barbie and Ken would fall in love, we'd listen to the love songs from these artists. I know nearly every one of Engelbert Humperdinck's songs--word by word. So when my friend, Judy Baker, told me Engelbert was going to be in Wendover on Sept. 2nd, I really wanted to go. Thankfully, a rebate check come in the mail earlier this week that made this trip possible. So...here are some fun pics from my time in Wendover. The concert hall wouldn't let me take my camera into the concert, so instead, I took pics of the program I bought.

This is where we stayed - which was an easy walk to the concert hall.

We were on the fourth floor, and this pic was taken from our window.

EH with famous people throughout the years.

Ahhh...the memories. I'll always cherish them. EH sang my three favorite songs: "After The Loving", "Spanish Eyes", and "The Last Waltz". I did get teary-eyed but only because I was so happy...and then at the end I got teary-eyed again because the concert was over. But it was a WONDERFUL time!

A Wonderful day with Wonderful authors!

2011-09-01T09:01:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday I spent the afternoon with some great writers. K.R. Bailey, Jewel Adams, Abel Keogh, Julie Bellon, Joy Spraycar, Michael Young, N.C. Allen. The day was a complete success! Not only did I get to interact with readers, but I met authors face-to-face who I've only met online! And it was a PLEASURE to know these great authors!

My friend, K.R. Bailey - her first book signing!

Abel Keogh - a multi-published author

Jewel Adams - a friend I'd only met online, until today!

Joy Spraycar and Abel Keogh

Jewel is MUCH taller in person than on her email!

WINNER of Heart of a Hero!

2011-08-08T09:09:00.000-06:00

I want to give a big THANKS to everyone who entered my contest. I was excited to see so many entered. I gave each of you a number then had my husband pick the number out of the hat. So the winner is...

(drum roll please)

Sakira! I will email you to get your address so I can mail you my book.

Thanks everyone!

~Marie~

Summer Giveaway Hop

2011-08-01T03:00:00.026-06:00

I'm participating with other authors in this GREAT event! All these authors are also having giveaways, so be sure to visit their blogs and enter! Go here for other giveaways - http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/p/giveaway-hop_17.html

If you'd like to enter my contest, all you have to do is follow my blog, and leave a comment with your name and email address. I'll need this information when I announce the winner.This contest runs from August 1st - 7th. You can enter any of those days.

My giveaway is a FREE copy of my historical - "Heart Of A Hero". Not to brag, but I'm receiving TONS of 4 & 5 star reviews on this story at Goodreads.com. Okay, so maybe I am bragging a little. (grins)

A book I've been waiting for!

2011-07-31T06:00:00.004-06:00

I'm so very excited about this book! I read Tristi's "Dearly Departed" and LOVED it! This book has the same wacky characters that were so endearing!

Author Tristi Pinkston is excited to announce the release of the third novel in her Secret Sisters Mysteries series.

Titled Hang ‘em High, this novel takes place on a dude ranch in Montana. When Ida Mae’s son invites her to come for a visit, of course she brings Arlette and Tansy along with her. They are expecting to spend the week looking at horses, avoiding the cows, and making amends in Ida Mae’s relationship with her son. What they don’t expect is to be stuck on the ranch in the middle of a blizzard and to be thrust headlong into the middle of a mystery.

***

Help Tristi celebrate her new novel in two ways. First, come participate in the two-week-long blog contest, where you can win a book nearly every single day! All the details are up on Tristi’s blog.

Second, come to the book launch!

You are invited to an

August Authorama!

Saturday, August 13th

Pioneer Book, 858 S. State, Orem

12 – 4 pm

Games, prizes, balloons, face painting,

and Dutch oven cobbler

prepared by world champion cook

Keith Fisher.

Authors Tristi Pinkston, J. Lloyd Morgan, Cindy Hogan,

Nichole Giles, and Heather Justesen

will all be there to sign books.

This is one book launch event

you will not want to miss!

I Love Book Signings!

2011-07-13T10:20:00.002-06:00

The only thing better about meeting new readers at a book signing, is meeting fellow authors. Last Saturday, four of Walnut Springs' authors got together for a double signing. The first place we went was The Book Table in Logan, Utah. This place was very busy! Of course it helped that Logan City had their summer Sidewalk Sale going on, either. Here are a few pictures taken from that signing.

This author wasn't part of Walnut Springs, but she was such a sweet lady, so I took her pic

This is my new friend and fellow author, Wanda Luce.

Hey - what do you think of my new hairdo? lol

This is my friend Robbie who I haven't seen in a few years!

These pictures are from the signing at Reflections Of Utah in Brigham City.

This is Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen. She is a suspense author. I loved her book, Trapped!

This is my new friend, Wanda. I can't wait to read her story!!

Here are those wonderful Walnut Springs authors! I didn't get a separate picture of Tristi, which I regret, but I LOVE her book, Dearly Departed.

What a Wonderful review!!

2011-06-23T21:35:00.001-06:00

I love to hear from readers who have read my books. Today, I received this in my email and I'm THRILLED...

Hearts Through Time by Marie Higgins

When handsome, Nick Marshall moves into a newly renovated building to re-establish his law practice, the last thing he expects to confront him is a ghost from 1912. Nick’s youthful and lustful approach to life, along with bad publicity, brought his then budding career to a screeching halt. He’s learned from his mistakes and vowed to concentrate on business. Vanessa, the daughter of the building’s present owner and a model-like beauty from his past, refuses to acknowledge his change in behavior. However, Abigail, his friendly neighborhood spirit, dressed to the nines in clothing from an era past, needs his help in finding who murdered her so she can cross over and find peace. She’s his first priority since he’s the only one who can see her.

Abigail has spent all these years since her demise bound to the building once owned by her father. Her death, publicized as a suicide, has kept her earthbound and hampered her quest is to find the person who took her life. She can’t do it from inside the building and needs a mortal’s help. Will she really want to leave once she gets to know the “solicitor” her grandmother predicted would be her savior?

Marie Higgins weaves a truly entertaining read in Hearts Through Time. Her awesome imagination shows through in this engaging novel which becomes a mix of history, time-travel, romance, mystery and suspense. You may think you’ve figured out the culprit, but there are enough “red herrings” to throw you off track. I highly recommend Hearts Through Time…in fact anything written by Ms. Higgins. I’m a fan, and this was my book of choice to read on my trip to from Tennessee to Alaska. I barely noticed the “bumps in the road” and the flight passed quickly as I found myself totally engaged in the story. Treat yourself to Marie Higgins.

Reviewed by Ginger Simpson, Author http://www.gingersimpson.com

I write like JK Rawling? Really????

2011-06-01T20:09:00.000-06:00

First of all...if you don't know who JK Rawling is - she is the author of the Harry Potter stories. Okay, so now that you know that, can you imagine my excitement when I received a review for my story "Hearts Through Time" today and I was compared to this great author?? REALLY???? This is a dream of most authors - to be compared to great writers. (grins)

Read the review:

GREAT BOOK!! First of all, I must say that it is slightly outside of my typical genre. I read a lot of science fiction and fantasy, so when I started reading Hearts Through Time, I was concerned that it was a romance novel with a little bit of sci-fi thrown in as a plot device. I was concerned it would not hold my attention because of this.

I must say I was very happily surprised to find that it is a great read- and I cannot put it down! Last night, I found myself at 1:00 a.m., reading by flashlight as my husband slept next to me. I had to be at work early today, but I just could not put the book down, it was so enticing. I even brought it to work with me today and read it between final exams (being a reading teacher, it's easy to justify it as "modeling appropriate behavior", lol).

What I like is the author's style of writing, which is very clean and very clearly understood. Honestly, her style reminds me of J.K. Rowling, in that she provides just enough background on each of the characters to flesh them out, and keep them interesting. As the plot progresses, we learn more about each of the characters. By the end of the book I felt very comfortable with these characters and felt there could even be a sequel to Hearts Through Time.

Other factors I appreciated: the tightly constructed mystery, the perfect story arc, and the ending. The only flaw (and it is a minor one), is I would have enjoyed more historical background on Sacramento, circa 1912, when the 2nd half of the book takes place.

Ms. Higgins, you wrote a wonderfully entertaining story, and I will be on the lookout for your other books.

Fun Surprise!!

2011-05-09T19:08:00.002-06:00

I came home from work today with a fun surprise waiting for me. My husband had set up my new computer room. Now I FINALLY have a room all to myself when I create my stories. YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T13:55:00.000-06:00

What does Mother's Day mean to you? To me, it's spending the day doing anything I want - and having my family cater to my every whim.

Well, that's not what it's like in the real world. Mothers have responsibilities. Meals still need to be prepared, and the house still has to be cleaned, and believe it or not, Mother's still have to be the "Mother" to their children. So what's so special about Mother's Day?

It's one day out of the year that we take time to recognize all that our mothers have done for us. So let's take a moment and reflect. Was your mother there for you when you scraped your knee? Was your mother there for you when you received a good grade in school and wanted to show someone and help celebrate? How about when you had your first crush on a boy - and especially when that same boy broke your heart? I can happily say my mother was there for all of these things.

Growing up, my mother became my friend. Sure, there were those rotten teenage years when I thought I didn't need my parents, but I'm glad I survived without any major scrapes and injuries. Now I can say my mother is a great friend. She's someone who will listen to me when I complain, she's there to give me advice when I need it, and she is especially there to laugh with me. I've noticed we laugh a LOT together. (it must be my old age... lol) We have shared many special memories!

But I want to tell my mom - I LOVE YOU! And THANK YOU Mom for being a wonderful Mother and a great example!!!

~Marie~

We have 4 Winners!

2011-04-26T18:41:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all who participated in the Easter Egg blog hop! You're all very supportive.

I put everyone's name in a bag and drew four names.

Winner #1 wins "Journey Of Honor". Congratulations to Jennifer (book noise).

Winner #2 wins "Wild Irish Rose". Congrats to Sue B!

Winner #3 wins "English Trifle". Congrats to Stacie!

Grand Prize winner get the $10 gift card from Starbucks. Congrats to.... (drum roll please)....
VELVET Hubler!

I will send emails out to you, letting you know. You are all awesome!

~Marie~

Hoppy Easter Eggstravaganza Blog Hop

2011-04-20T03:00:00.001-06:00

Hey all, I'm doing another blog hop. These are so fun!!

I'm participating with a bunch of other blogs in doing a Hoppy Easter Eggstravaganza. Follow this link to see others who are having giveaways
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/p/giveaway-hop-page.html

I'm giving away FREE print books I have reviewed lately -
"Journey Of Honor" by Jaclyn M. Hawkes, "Wild Irish Rose" by Deborah L. Weikel, and "English Trifle" by Josi Kilpack!

http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Honor-Jaclyn-M-Hawkes/dp/1599360594/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1303175452&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Wild-Irish-Rose-Deborah-Weikel/dp/1935217666/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1303175425&sr=1-1

http://www.josiskilpack.com/books/culinary-mystery-series/english-trifle

AND...the grand prize winner will receive a $10 gift certificate from Starbucks!

All you have to do to enter my giveaway become a 'follower' of this blog and leave a comment with your contact information. (Open only to those who live in the United States)

~Marie~

Interview with Danielle Thorne

2011-04-15T19:43:00.002-06:00

I want to introduce you to a new author I've just found. Danielle Thorne has written a Regency romance - Josette. The book cover caught my eye, then I read the blurb, and I KNEW I wanted to read this book. I am a HUGE fan of Jane Austen (Pride & Prejudice is my favorite still). Her story reminded me of Jane Austen's stories. Gotta love when that happens!

Danielle was nice enough to let me interview her. I hope you enjoy getting to know her as I have.

Marie: Danielle, tell us a little about yourself.

Danielle: Hi Marie, and thanks for having me. Raised in the south, I currently write from outside of Atlanta, Georgia. I grew up in a large family and have four sons of my own. We keep busy with music, scouting and a few sports now and then. For the most part, we love to eat, travel, play video games and watch Mythbusters and Animal Planet shows.

Marie: Tell us about your new release and what inspired you to write this.

Danielle: JOSETTE is a Jane Austen-inspired Regency that recalls the strict rules and expectations of the era. Josette Price sees her future in Beddingfield Park. While her brother, George, needlessly pursues a naval career, she promises to watch over their beloved parents and the park estate. Nothing would make Josette happier than to see her sister and her self settled within the palings of Beddingfield. But dark, brooding Captain Carter rides into their lives with news that ruins everything: George has been lost at sea. Learning the park is entailed to their cousin, Edward, Josette must decide between marrying her fickle relation or helping her besotted sister trap him in her stead. Only Captain Carter and his delightfully spinsterish relatives can stop the Price girls from making a choice that would be the greatest tragedy of all.

I loved writing JOSETTE and dabbling into the culture of early nineteenth century England. Jane Austen wove so much wit and charm into her stories, they inspired me to dream up one of my own. I have to admit, being a genealogist with U.K. roots, I enjoyed the research as much as I did the writing process.

Marie: Oh, I totally love the Regency era. (dreamy sigh) And you did such a wonderful job putting the reader into that era! So, out of all your stories (either written by you or not), who is your favorite hero and why.

Danielle: My favorite literary hero is Captain Jack Aubrey from the MASTER AND COMMANDER series, by Patrick O'Brian. This seafaring naval officer is the most three dimensional character I've ever discovered. He is brilliant and oafish at the same time; courageous and at moments, foolhardy. I love his vulnerability as he struggles to advance his career through adventures and battle at sea. The supporting cast he plays off of are beautiful and memorable as well.

Marie: How did you become a writer? What or who inspired you?

Danielle: I began writing at a very early age, before I could do multiplication! Most of my childhood and young adult work was poetry, but as I matured I began to dabble with short stories. After some freelance work online and my youngest child started school, I felt like I was ready to tackle novel writing. It's definitely been a growing experience.

Marie: I envy writers like you who knew you loved writing way back at an early age. So tell us, what stories are in your future?

Danielle: I'm immersed in two novels at this time, both young adult. One, THE SEA KING, is my tribute to J.M. Barrie's Neverland. Peter Pan was my first love. Jack Sparrow may very well be my second! I am also close to wrapping up a paranormal, again my first, with a young adult heroine. Not my usual fare, but I'm inclined to follow where my inspiration leads me. As far as any more Regencies, I do have one in the works I hope to finish this year for 2012.

Marie: Oh, Danielle, they all sound so intriguing. I'll look forward to when they're released. How can your fans get a hold of you? Do you have blogs, website, or a newsletter?

Danielle: My month newsletter can be subscribed to at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ThePrivateerNewsletter/?yguid=197416267

My blog which features monthly giveaways and other fun ideas is:
http://www.thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com/

And I hope everyone will visit me at my website: http://www.daniellethorne.com/

Don't forget Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/people/Danielle-Thorne/100000700796495

Thank you!

Review: Against The Odds

2011-04-09T11:25:00.002-06:00

I have to tell you about a new author I've come across. I met Jewel Adams in one of my writer's groups, and since I'd heard so much about her stories, I knew I had to read one...or two...or more.

"Against The Odds" is a tender, romantic, and endearing story of a woman, Raine, who has been hurt from a previous relationship. Through her journey to recover, she meets Hayden - one very kind-hearted cowboy. (Gotta love cowboys, darlin') She becomes friends with Hayden since she's not ready for a new relationship, but over time they grow to love each other - with a few bumps along the way.

This story is about love and committment, about trusting and believing. Jewel Adams has written a very sweet and emotional love story that will stay on my mind for quite some time. Well done, Jewel!

You can learn more about Jewel and her books right here - http://www.jadamsnovels.com/

~Marie~

I made my first book video!

2011-03-25T15:15:00.000-06:00

I'm happy to announce that I accomplished something today that I've never done before. Making a book video was time consuming, but in the end, it was worth the effort, I think. I'll be making my book trailers from here on out - with the help of my daughter.

Anyway, here is my new trailer!

Review: Journey of Honor

2011-03-22T21:41:00.000-06:00

Blurb:
Disowned, she came to American anyway. Attacked and left pregnant by a vicious mob, she still pressed on. Finally in spite of being accused of theft by the vilest of her attackers, Giselle tries to remain as upbeat and uncomplaining as a prairie wildflower as she travels on to Zion.

Thoroughly disillusioned with the ugliness and cruelty of slavery in the South. Trace Grayson leaves his young medical career to go west, hoping to leave bigotry and hatred behind. He begins taking goods by teamster train to sell in the territories. However, this fourth time across in July 1848, he's stuck in St. Joseph, Missouri, waiting for enough wagons to join the train so that they can leave.

Knowing that if they don t start west soon, they ll be caught by snow in the mountains. Trace is thrilled when the final wagon signs on. Then, when the beautiful young Dutch girl traveling with the last wagon is falsely accused of stealing and is detained, the whole trip is jeopardized. Thrown together by circumstances, Trace and Giselle team up to begin to figure out just how to make this epic journey across a continent a success.

With a deep sense of honor and an equally strong sense of humor, together they learn to deal with everything except the one trial that neither of them can overcome.

This is a journey through the refiner s fire.

My Review:
Journey Of Honor is an incredible story of courage, strength and family unity. There are many obstacles thrown at Trace and poor Giselle as they travel to Zion. Giselle is strong in her faith, and Trace witnesses many times the power of prayer and the Mormon ways when he's never crossed paths with any of that religion before. The ending is delightful and brings a satisfied sigh to the reader.
As a writer myself, the only problem I found with this story was the fact that the author was telling me the story - instead of showing me. I wanted more dialogue and more emotion from the characters. I wanted to feel like I was stepping in their shoes instead of being told how they stepped.

If you enjoy historical romances that tell about what the pioneers may have experienced back in 1848, you'll fall in love with this story.

To purchase - http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Honor-Jaclyn-M-Hawkes/dp/1599360594/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1300845026&sr=8-12

Book signing

2011-03-21T20:06:00.001-06:00

My latest book signing was held in Ogden at a place called Wisebird Bookery. This was a combination book store and coffee shop. Almost like a Starbucks wannabe. lol It was small, but cozy. The owner of the store was very friendly. But what surprised me more than anything was they kept two dogs in the store. Such pretty dogs - and so tame, too! Kids loved them.

Tristi Pinkston, another Walnut Springs Press author, joined me. That was my first time meeting her face-to-face, and I felt like I'd known her for years. What a great woman!!

Anyway, the book signing went well, I thought. I sold nine copies of Hearts Through Time, so I was happy! Here are some pics of the signing.

Tristi Pinkston - and ME!

See...even dogs like my books!!

I looke like I'm giving a class, right? lol

WINNERS!

2011-03-21T03:00:00.000-06:00

I was blown away by the responses I recevied for this giveaway. I wish I could have given all of you a prize! Thanks for making my day!!

It was an extremely hard task, but I was finally able to pick two winners. The winners will each get a copy of my latest release, Hearts Through Time.

The winners are... (drum roll, please)...

Maria

and

Alleluialu

I'll email both of you to get your address. If by some reason one of my winners decide they don't want the prize, I'll pick another winner.

THANKS AGAIN!

Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop

2011-03-17T03:00:00.006-06:00

I'm participating with a bunch of other blogs in doing a Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop. Go to this link to see others who are having giveaways http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/p/giveaway-hop.html

For my giveaway, I'm offering 2 copies of my newest release, Hearts Through Time. All you have to do to enter my giveaway is follow this blog and then leave a comment with your contact information. (Open only to those who live in the United States)

A love story that transcends time . . .

When a woman claiming to be a ghost from 1912 appears in Nick Marshal’s office and begs for help in solving her murder, he thinks he has lost his mind. A scandal that rocked Hollywood almost destroyed his law practice, so he doesn’t need any more fireworks as he rebuilds his life. Still, he is intrigued by Abigail Carlisle’s plea, and he needs clients, even if this one insists she’s dead. The more secrets Nick uncovers, the deeper he falls for the beautiful ghost.

Abigail believes Nick is her heart’s true desire, but how can happily-ever-after happen when she’s already dead? The more time she spends with him, the more real she becomes, until Nick can finally touch her.

In a strange turn of events, Nick is suddenly whisked back to 1912, two weeks before Abby’s murder, but she doesn’t remember him. When he attempts to win her over so he can save her from a tragic destiny, Abby thinks Nick is courting her for her inheritance. But even if he can rescue her and make her trust him again, how can they be together forever?

I've made this simple and easy. And don't forget to click on the above link to find other blogs that are doing the same thing I am.

Guess what I received today?

2011-03-11T11:34:00.002-07:00

I'm dancing around the house today. Look what I got to hold in my hot little hands today...

A love story that transcends time . . .

When a woman claiming to be a ghost from 1912 appears in Nick Marshal’s office and begs for help in solving her murder, he thinks he has lost his mind. A scandal that rocked Hollywood almost destroyed his law practice, so he doesn’t need any more fireworks as he rebuilds his life. Still, he is intrigued by Abigail Carlisle’s plea, and he needs clients, even if this one insists she’s dead. The more secrets Nick uncovers, the deeper he falls for the beautiful ghost.

Abigail believes Nick is her heart’s true desire, but how can happily-ever-after happen when she’s already dead? The more time she spends with him, the more real she becomes, until Nick can finally touch her.

In a strange turn of events, Nick is suddenly whisked back to 1912, two weeks before Abby’s murder, but she doesn’t remember him. When he attempts to win her over so he can save her from a tragic destiny, Abby thinks Nick is courting her for her inheritance. But even if he can rescue her and make her trust him again, how can they be together forever?

Spread the word! It's here! It's HERE!!!!!

Now I got to start scheduling book signings...

~Marie~

My new friend!

2011-03-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks, I've found a new friend. Out of the blue, I get this email from a reader. She'd heard good things about my historical, Heart Of A Hero, and she had to read it. In great detail, she explains what she had to go through just to read my story. The way she tells her story is so funny it had my laughing so hard I was crying. She blogged about it, and I wouldn't be surprised if her blog becomes popular with followers because Sheryl Johnson is a very funny woman!

http://sherylcsjohnson.blogspot.com/

Today, she blogged about my story, Winning Mr. Wrong. Once again, she had me in stitches.

If you are in the mood to laugh and enjoy a great book review, please stop by her blog. You won't regret it!

~Marie~

Welcome Roseanne Dowell!

2011-03-08T21:20:00.001-07:00

I want to introduce you to another writer. Roseanne, welcome to my blog.

Tell us about yourself and how you first started writing.

Wow, where to start? First and foremost, I’m a wife, mother of six, grandmother of 14 and great grandmother of 1. My family is and always has been my priority. I always loved to read and as a young girl dreamed about being an author. I started writing years ago when my children were little, but I never submitted anything until about six years ago.

You have been a busy person! Congrats on the large family! So tell me, is there a book that changed your life or made you want to become a writer?

When I was younger I dreamed about writing books like Nancy Drew, moved on to Phyllis Whitney and Victoria Holt and eventually Danielle Steele and Nora Roberts. Mary Higgins Clark and Lisa Scottoline are two other favorites.

That's great! I also love some of these authors. If you can go back in time, where would you go?

Oh boy, that one is easy – the Victorian Era. I love the furniture, the clothes and everything about it.

Roseanne, I knew I loved ya! That's my favorite era as well! What is your favorite thing about yourself?

My family. They are my life.

I hear ya there!! You have a few books out, which is a huge accomplishment, but do you have a favorite? If so, why.

While I’m writing, they’re all my favorites. I think probably I’d have to say And They All Fall Down, which is due out later this year.

What inspired you to write your latest release "Stranger On The Shore"?

We used to go to a cottage and often walked along the lake. I often wondered what it would be like to live in one of the houses right on the lake in the winter or during storms. Of course, my imagination took over and hence the book.

Tell us about your story.

"Stranger On The Shore" is about author, Jordan Blake. She’s a bit of a recluse, which is fine with her. It makes it easier to write and meet her deadlines. While preparing for an early October Lake Effect Snowstorm, she noticed something along the shore that looked like a body. After pulling, tugging and finally rolling the handsome stranger, she managed to get him into her house. She feels an irresistible attraction to him when he comes to. Unfortunately, he has amnesia and has no idea who he is. More than a storm rages inside and out.

WOW! That sounds very interesting. I can't wait to read it now! Where can readers contact you?

Readers can find me at my website: www.roseannedowell.com or my blog at: http://roseannedowellauthor.blogspot.com/

NEW BOOK COVER!!

2011-02-18T14:36:00.005-07:00

I'm excited to show you my new book cover. March's release will be titled, Hearts Through Time.

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?

My grandparents

2011-02-16T11:38:00.001-07:00

I suppose I should have posted this tender story on Valentine's Day, but that was my grandmother's funeral and I was too emotional. However, I do need to share this.

My grandma lived a long, full life. She had many trials, but her family was always important to her. Her wonderful husband died 37 years ago, and she has loved him every day since. Finally, after all this time, she was able to enjoy Valentine's Day with her husband.

I'll miss her as I have missed him all these years. But knowing they're together now raising their son who died nine days after he was born, makes my heart light. Before closing the casket, I whispered to my grandma to say hello to my dad and tell him I loved him.

I love knowing I'll see them all again!

I'm sitting on my grandpa's lap. Then my brother, Mike, and my sister, Stacey is on grandma's lap.

LOVE AT HOME - from LDS Hymns

There is beauty all around, when there's love at home.
There is joy in every sound, when there's love at home.
Peace and plenty here abide, smiling sweet on every side,
Time doth softly, sweetly glide, when there's love at home.

Kindly heaven smiles above, when there's love at home.
All the world is filled with love, when there's love at home.
Sweeter sings the brooklet by, brighter beams the azure sky,
Oh, there's One who smiles on high, when there's love at home.

Fawn Twitchell Bills - July 5, 1920 - February 9, 2011

Meet author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

2011-02-07T08:11:00.001-07:00

I'm excited to introduce you to suspense author, Ronda. I met her face-to-face in November when we had a book signing together. She is not only a wonderful person, but an awesome writer! Yeah, I bought her book "Trapped", and LOVED IT!

Ronda, how did you pick the genre you write in?

I have always heard we should write what we love to read, so when I determined to write a novel, I chose my favorite genre: romantic suspense.

Well, I have to say, Ronda, you do a great job writing suspense! Do you plot or do you write by the seat of your pants?

I plot first. Not in total specifics, but I do need to know who my bad guy is and how the book ends, who my main characters are, what their motivations are, and several key plot points throughout the book. If I don’t have those things, I get totally blocked and feel like I’m wandering around in the darkness, wasting my time.

I totally agree with you. What drew you to the subject of TRAPPED ?

What do you mean by “the subject?” If you mean where the story line came from, that came from two very detailed dreams I had, complete with characters and motivations. But if you’re referring to the themes inside TRAPPED, those came from my fervent belief that each person has a specific purpose for good in this world that only he/she can accomplish.

Wow, I loved these answers! So, did you encounter any obstacles in researching it?

Nothing different than I have from any other book/story I’ve written. I “simply” have to go out and find the details I don’t already know from experience. I use a lot of personal experiences from the internet and books.

You do what I do. That's good to know! What was the best writing advice someone gave you?

“You’re value is in your individuality.” This came from my creative writing teacher at Ricks College. Her name is Dorla Jenkins.

I love it! Will you describe your book for us?

My newest novel is a paranormal thriller titled TRAPPED. It’s about a young woman who wakes in the night to find a thief in her home, only to discover she’s actually caught in a deadly trap of evil traditions and a horrifying family curse only she can end. It takes place in the Austrian Alps and includes a bit of romance.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

The freedom of letting my imagination take off into unknown, and yet to me, believable places. I also love surprising people.

And I must say, you are VERY good at suprising people! What do you consider your strengths in terms of your writing?

My abilities to create suspense, combine normally unrelated things into something unique, and saying a lot with relatively few words.

You hit the nail on the head there! What do you consider your weakness and what strategies do you use to overcome it?

Characters. I think I’m pretty good with coming up with unique characters, but I seem to have trouble showing/expressing who they are on the inside. One of the best “strategies” I have is my critique group. They’re very good at helping me through such instances.

I would have never guessed that, Ronda. Where can readers find you and your books?

I’m all over the internet, but the easiest places to find me are on my blogs (thewriteblocks.blogspot.com and rondagibbhinrichsen.com) and my website: (rondahinrichsen.com). You can find my books, MISSING and TRAPPED at your local bookstore and online (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.). You can also find direct purchase links on my website. By the way, during the month of February, 2011, I’m celebrating “Library Lovers Month.” If you purchase a copy of MISSING or TRAPPED during the month of February, please send me a copy of your receipt to my email address at rondagibbhinrichsen@gmail.com, and I’ll enter you in a drawing to have a free copy of TRAPPED sent to the school or community library of your choice.

Best of luck with your contest! Thanks, Ronda for letting me grill you for answers! You're the best!

~Marie~

The day in the life of a Victorian model

2011-02-04T20:07:00.001-07:00

I had the privelege - and pure enjoyment - of watching a photo shoot. I met Heather Gardner in one of my writer's loops. She was was asked by a YA (young adult) author, Michelle Zink, to take pictures for her newest book trailer. The story that will coming out soon is the third in the Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy and will be released in August of this year. The era for this triology is Victorian... Ohhh, my favorite!!!

Anyway, Heather sent out an email asking if anyone knew of young adults between the ages 18-25 here in Utah to be part of this photo shoot. My oldest daughter was chosen to be in the photo shoot. So today I spent the afternoon / evening with my daughter, Heather, and three other young adults for this photo shoot. It was a BLAST!!! And cold...but that's okay if I couldn't feel my cheeks when we were done, I had so much fun, as did my daughter.

So, without further ado, here are some of the pictures I took of the photo shoot. ENJOY!

I couldn't help but think of that movie "The Village" with this cape. hahaha

Okay Chrystal...play dead. (snickers)

Play dead, but look at me...

No sweetie - you're NOT a Vampire! I promise!

I totally fell in love with this mask!!!

Don't you just love this mask??

I told you I LOVED this mask... Thank goodness I wasn't in the photo shoot, huh? lol

I think Chrystal was portraying the bad sister in the book...

Cute group, huh?

Seriously, he could try out for the part of the Phantom, right?

Ahhh... And these two are really boyfriend / girlfriend.

Here's another (sigh) moment! Ahhhh...

I dare anyone to take on these two guys!!

I hope you had as much fun as I did!!

~Marie~

Welcome Stephanie Humphreys

2011-01-28T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to another writer friend of mine - Stephanie Humphreys, who gracious let me interview her.

How did you pick the genre you write in?

I write whatever comes to my head. As I wrote Finding Rose, it surprised me when it came out a romance. The stories that usually spin around my head are usually suspense/mystery.

That's great to know! I too, love a good mystery! Do you plot or do you write by the seat of your pants?

I do both. I like to have a general idea of where the story is going, but I don't write too many details down before I begin telling the story. I am trying to get better at outlining because makes for fewer changes when I go back to edit. It seems to be a fine balance - if I don't plot, then the story wanders, but if I plot too much, then it feels like the story has already been told.

I hear ya! I'm the same way. If I plot too much I feel like I've already written the story. lol So, what drew you to the subject of FINDING ROSE ?
Finding Rose was inspired by my great-great grandparent's lives. In the 1890's the LDS church had a contract with the Canadian government to bring men to Canada to help build the irrigation canals. My grandfather was called by Lorenzo Snow to do this and brought his family to Alberta. The beginning of Finding Rose shows Rose and her family dealing with a similar situation. Because there is such a large LDS population in Alberta,I wanted to write for them and tell a story showing LDS characters who leave Utah.

That's so awesome! I didn't know about that. Did you encounter any obstacles in researching it?
Not really. The hardest part about the research was not letting myself become distracted and forgetting to write the book. There are so many interesting historical events and people to read about.

I know what you mean. I LOVE doing research for my historical stories. Could you describe your book for the readers?

On his deathbed, Rose Sterling’s father asks her to consider Miles Crandall as a suitor. Then Rose is sent to live with an uncle in Spring Creek, Montana, far from her carefree life with her family in Utah. Miles is returning to his hometown of Spring Creek to set up a medical practice, so Rose is certain her being sent there is a setup. When Rose captures the attention of Miles’s younger, flamboyant brother as well as the town sheriff, Miles retreats even further from any attempt at courtship. How can Rose honor her father’s last wish if Miles doesn’t even try to court her? Will she have the courage to put her heart on the line and fight for the one she really loves?

This really sounds like a great story. What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

What I enjoyed most was seeing the story unfold. I wrote this book as part of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and I didn't do any advance plotting. I loved letting the characters tell their stories.

I love NaNo! It really helps writers to kick out that story quickly. So, what do you consider your strengths in terms of your writing?

My biggest strength is being able to write clean copy the first time through. This makes the editing process much easier. It allows me to focus more on the characters and story when I edit.

I'm so jealous! I wish I could do that. What do you consider your weakness and what strategies do you use to overcome it?

My weakness is plotting. I overcome this by keeping tons of notes. If I catch something that needs to be fixed I write it down so I can return to it later. That way I don't interrupt the flow of my writing time. With the book I am working on right now, I am trying to do more plotting in advance and fill in the holes and weaknesses of the story before I begin writing.

I love plotting! lol Where can readers find you and your books?

I would love to hear from readers. They can find me at

http://www.facebook.com/l/2dde3EOXzRG401Kt7ieLdnUbvvA;shumphreys.blogspot.com. They can purchase Finding Rose at http://www.facebook.com/l/2dde37VIUGQTR-ZP8CCDfn-zV4Q;DeseretBook.com
http://www.facebook.com/l/2dde3E9lAhO_agYU6a0-L2S5ROA;Amazon.com, or at their closest LDS bookstore.

Welcome Tristi Pinkston

2011-01-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

I have recently met a fabulous author and I couldn't wait to interview her. Everyone welcome Tristi Pinkston!

How did you pick the genre you write in?

Well, it sort of picked me. I had started out my career in historical fiction, which I love, and will always love, and will continue to write, but when I had the idea for The Secret Sisters Mysteries, it just fell from the sky and smacked me on the head. The characters started talking to me like I’d known them for years, and it just snowballed from there.

I LOVE historicals!! I hope you write one soon. Do you plot or do you write by the seat of your pants?

I generally write by the seat of my pants, and then go back to add little threads of logic once I figure out where I’m going. It always makes me laugh when I get halfway through the mystery and then realize I now know who did it. You’d think I’d know that from the start, but no, not really.

Heeheee That sounds familiar since I do that as well. What drew you to the subject of Dearly Departed?

I’m trying to remember exactly how I got the idea for this particular story. I think it just leaped into my head, along with the others. I was particularly taken with the idea of little old women, one in a wheelchair with two casts, creeping down a hallway and trying to be inconspicuous.

You know...I can picture that too! lol Did you encounter any obstacles in researching this story?

This story didn’t take a whole lot of research, but when I did have questions, I turned to my awesome critique group. One member, Heather Justesen, is an EMT, and another member, Nichole Giles, is married to a police officer. They help keep me on the straight and narrow with those kinds of details.

That critique group does sound awesome. What was the best writing advice someone gave you?

Several years ago, I signed at BYU’s Women’s Conference and got to sit next to Brenton Yorgason. He talked to me about the temptation to give in and write what the world would want me to write, and then he said to me, “Don’t ever pollute your pen.” I have never forgotten that and have tried to live up to that counsel.

That is great advice! Would you describe your book for us?

Dearly Departed is the sequel to Secret Sisters. Ida Mae has broken both her wrist and her ankle, and this gives her the perfect excuse to go investigate a suspicious death in a care facility. While she’s there, she interrogates the other patients, steals files from the doctor’s office, and gets herself in a spot of trouble of her own. But justice is served at the end.

This story sounds intriguing! What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

My characters. When I give them their head and just let them run, they come up with the most hysterical solutions to their problems. They make me laugh all the time.

I love when characters do that! What do you consider your strengths in terms of your writing?

With this series, definitely the characterizations, but I don’t think I can take credit for that. They just appeared, fully formed, and I wrote down what they said and did and who they were. They made it really easy for me.

I love when that happens, too. So what do you consider your weakness and what strategies do you use to overcome it?

I struggle to formulate all the little intricate details of the mystery. Sometimes it’s just not mysterious enough and I have to add stuff or take it out and throw in more red herrings. Again, that’s where my critique group comes in. They help me when things are just not making sense or when I haven’t laid out the scenario right.

You are truly blessed to have a wonderful critique group. Where can readers find you and your books?

You can generally find me right here at my computer, or taking a nap in my room, or … oh, wait, that’s not what you meant. You can find my blog at http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com/ and you can find my books here, which is my Amazon page:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=tristi+pinkston&x=0&y=0

I also have a website at http://www.tristipinkston.com/, but it’s really outdated and I’m getting ready to launch a whole new one. It’s gonna be awesome.

Tristi, I can't wait to see your new website. Thanks for visiting my blog today, and I wish you TONS of success with your stories!

~Marie~

Book Cases!

2011-01-15T10:55:00.002-07:00

No, not bookcases, but CASES for my books! My husband loves to work with wood, and he built me some cases for my books, which now sit on my piano.

What do you think? They're beautiful, aren't they? And, if you are a writer, you know how important things like this are to help showcase our books.

(ignore the dates on the pics. I don't set my date on my camera. lol)

If any writers would like one (or more) for their books, let me know. My hubby will happily make them for you!! Send me your email.

~Marie~

Costco Book Signing

2011-01-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I'll be at Costco in Ogden, Utah, doing a book signing from 1-6. I'd LOVE for you to come see me. And bring your friends!!!

The address is 3656 Wall Avenue.

I'll be signing my romantic comedy - Winning Mr. Wrong!

I've been nominated TWICE!

2011-01-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

So far 2011 is looking like a pretty good year for me. I found out that my book, Winning Mr. Wrong, was nominated for a Whitney Award. What makes this even more exciting is that a couple weeks ago I was told my book, Heart Of A Hero, was also nominated for a Whitney Award. WOO-HOO!!!

Here is the list of authors who have been nominated. http://whitneyawards.com/wordpress/2010/11/14/whos-been-nominated-for-a-whitney/

The judges will pick five finalists in each category by Feb. 1st. Keep your fingers crossed that I'm one of them!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011!!

2011-01-01T15:00:00.001-07:00

I'm really sorry to see 2010 go. I've had an extremely good year. In May I received my first contract for my Christian stories, then in August my first book was released, Winning Mr. Wrong, and in September my second book released, Heart Of A Hero. Earlier this month, I met with my publisher and they are impressed with my sales and my writing and they want more from me. So, as for now, they are going to publish three of my books in 2011. A release in Feburary, Hearts Through Time (my ghost story), and a release in June, and one in August. Then a few weeks ago a couple of agents shown interest in my writing... Last but not least, I have gotten the Costco book signing schedule for January.

So, although 2010 was a very good year, I know 2011 will be even better!

Here is my schedule for Costco book signings...

January 7th - Costco in Orem, Utah from 1-6
January 8th - Costco in Ogden, Utah from 1-6
January 14th - Ogden from 1-6
January 21st - Bountiful, Utah from 1-6
January 22nd - Ogden from 1-6
January 28th - Ogden from 1-6
January 29th - Bountiful from 1-6

I'm looking forward to a fun-filled year!!

~Marie~

Christmas without the grandkids

2010-12-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

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~

What's coming next??

2010-12-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

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!)

**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~

Let's add another great review...

2010-12-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

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~

Another great book review!

2010-12-03T17:03:00.002-07:00

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

Great Book Review!

2010-11-23T18:54:00.001-07:00

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

Welcome Cindy Green!

2010-10-18T08:27:00.001-06:00

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!!

WINNERS!

2010-10-01T16:32:00.000-06:00

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~

Want to win a book?

2010-09-24T21:53:00.001-06:00

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~

Heart Of A Hero - available now!

2010-09-16T20:22:00.000-06:00

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~

Welcome author - Liz Arnold!!

2010-09-15T11:10:00.001-06:00

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

I'm #2!!

2010-09-07T18:43:00.001-06:00

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!!!

My first public book signing

2010-09-04T17:52:00.000-06:00

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!!

Dog Lover

2010-09-03T10:03:00.000-06:00

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.

Heart Of A Hero

2010-09-02T18:32:00.000-06:00

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

Newspaper Article

2010-09-01T12:10:00.000-06:00

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

My first book signing

2010-08-06T19:34:00.000-06:00

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)

IT'S HERE!!

2010-07-08T18:33:00.003-06:00

I've been shouting it from the rooftops...my book cover for Winning Mr. Wrong is here!!!

When love and friends collide, the outcome can be humorous…and disastrous.

Whoever said the quest for love wasn’t comical, never met Charlene Randall. Her search to find church and family man, Mr. Right, leads her to the last place she ever expected – the arms of her neighbor – Mr. Wrong.

Owner of a wealthy company, Damien Giovanni is fed up with money-grabbing women. But Charley isn’t like this. She wants to try the Internet article, How to Win Your Man’s Heart on his former friend. Jealousy hits him head on like a locomotive without a driver. What would happen if he tried the “10 Ways” on her? In the process, he notices changes in himself. Now he’s thinking about church, marriage, and a forever family. Will this be enough to make him happy and complete now?

**excerpt**

A gentle evening breeze teased the strands of hair that had fallen out of Charlene’s ponytail and tickled her neck. In an automatic reaction, she flipped a stray lock. It was a good thing she didn’t wear her hair long. She already wasted enough time styling it.

Next to her townhouse, shadows danced under the streetlights and throaty giggles floated in the breeze. A movement from the Lexus parked in front of her neighbor’s townhouse caught her attention. She recognized the wave of the man’s raven hair and the shape of his muscular shoulders.

Damien Giovanni, her single, Italian neighbor who had turned romancing women into a career, was obviously doing what he did best—getting another woman to fall for his charms. Charley rolled her eyes.

On tiptoe, she sneaked toward her front door, not wanting to make her presence known. Damien’s deep laughter rang through the quiet night and made her pause before reaching her porch. Could his date be over so early in the evening? That man entertained women late into the night just about every night. She didn’t want to know what they did. In fact, she wouldn’t blame the Lord if he launched a lightning bolt down on Damien just to wake him up and put him on the straight and narrow.

The glow from the streetlight shone upon the figures leaning against each other beside the door of Damien’s sports car. Despite herself, Charley angled to get a better look. They looked like two worms in electric-shock therapy. How disgusting!

The woman in Damien’s arms was his usual five-foot eight, blonde Barbie doll. He laughed again, and the baritone ring sent warm shivers down Charley’s spine. She cursed her weakness, admitting she enjoyed hearing his voice. It must be his Italian accent. Then again, she didn’t hear his accent when he laughed, so maybe it was how he laughed—like he knew a secret. Either way she couldn’t stand men like him who never could settle on one woman.

The Barbie wannabe raked her extra-long, fake fingernails through his hair and linked her arms around his neck. Damien grabbed her closer and planted a kiss on her mouth. Charley grumbled under her breath. Couldn’t he do that in his house? It was bad enough to hear his voice, but to see him in action . . .

Before she could look away, Damien pushed the woman from him and grinned. “See you later.”

Barbie waggled her fingers. “Call me.”

“Why? You have my number.”

Charley pursed her lips. The arrogant man. It didn’t matter, though. Women still flocked to him like dieters to a chocolate factory, and they devoured his charm just as quickly.

She clutched the briefcase to her chest and rushed to her front door before he spotted her. Damien would certainly know she had witnessed the quaint scene a few seconds ago, and he would never let her live it down. Her neighbor always enjoyed making snide remarks just to rile her—and it worked.

Fumbling with her keys, Charley hurried to find the one that opened her front door. They slipped from her fingers and hit the porch, clanging loud enough to wake the dead. She scolded her clumsiness, knelt on one knee, and swept her hand over the concrete, searching for them in the dark. Why hadn’t she turned on the porch light before she left for work?

“Do you need any help, mí amore?”

She jumped and fell back on her rear. The beating of her heart thundered in her ears, and she placed a hand on her chest. “Damien Giovanni, why do you always sneak up on me like that?”

He bent and grasped her upper arm with one hand and her keys with the other. “Because I like the way you jump.”

Heat from his touch crept up her arm, so she yanked it away. “One of these days you’re going to scare me so bad I’ll use my can of pepper spray.”

Damien’s chest shook, deep laughter spilling from his lips. “Honey, if you’re as steady with the little can of pepper spray as you are with your keys, I don’t see that as a threat.”

She fisted her hand and punched his arm, a grin tugging at her mouth. It was hard not to like him despite his reputation. “Just give me back my keys.”

He stepped away and folded his arms. “Say the magic words.” He wagged his eyebrows in that self-assured, infuriating way of his.

“Emergency 9-1-1?”

He tilted his head and laughed harder. The half moon illuminated his handsome features—straight nose, strong chin, and lips that looked like they’d be heaven to kiss . . . for other women, of course.

“Oh, mí amore, you really know how to tickle my funny bone.” He dangled the keys in front of her.

“Yeah, well, you really know how to . . . um . . . irritate me.”

**COMING IN AUGUST**

~Marie~

Great one-liners

2010-06-18T12:04:00.000-06:00

I love romance! If you don't know that about me yet, you know it now. Not only do I love reading and writing romance, I love watching romantic movies. Just for fun, I thought I'd post some one-liners from a few of my favorite movies. I'll give you three lines from each movie to help you out. How many of these do you know??

1. You smell like grilled cheese sandwiches… we go do some ‘manly bonding’… Why do you throw out the colored M&M’s and only eat the chocolate?

2. Ah tole ya and ah told ya… Ah’ve nevah berthed a baby before… As God is my witness, I’ll never be hungry again!

3. It’s a lance, hello…. My pride is the only thing they can’t take from me… I have seen a new moon, but not you.

4. I bet you’re wondering what a place like me is doing in a girl like this… Bad guys always get their comeuppance… The creature will not sleep, will not eat, and will never stop

5. I’m writing it up as inventive and confident… Swear, when we’re 28 and if we’ve never married, we marry each other… I have a point, the question is am I getting to it… I’m like the fungus that feeds on the pond scum.

6. Watch out for that tree… George not even trying hard… Something funny about this fella.

7. The pointy end goes into the other man… So what’s lesson number three? To get to lesson number four… He was very vigorous, Father

8. Were you trying to steal her heart? Yes, and what a clumsy thief I was… A bird my love a fish, but where would they live?

9. Come, we must return. Those two fools who run my theatre will be missing you… Keep your hand at the level of your eyes… Go now and leave me!

10. Have fun storming the castle… As you wish… That’s inconceivable…

~Marie~

New movie to love

2010-05-29T10:36:00.001-06:00

Well, it's offical. I'm in love with a new movie. My favorite is probably still Phantom of the Opera with Gerard Butler, then Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth is next. But I think this new movie is competing with Kate & Leopold for third place.

If you don't know by now, let me tell you...I LOVE HISTORICALS. Okay, nuff said. Here's some pictures of my newest favorite movie... North and South. Oh, and if you still haven't guessed...I LOVE Regency / Victorian looking men! heehee

Here is the website - http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/northandsouth/

~Marie~

My Hero

2010-05-26T06:45:00.001-06:00

If someone were to ask me about my favorite hero, I'd first say I couldn't decide because I write so many books and all my heroes are my favorite. But then if I forgot about my writing and thought about my life and who I looked up to, I would have to say my hero was my father.

I look back on my life, and I know I gave him a lot of anguish in my teenage years. We argued constantly because we were so much alike. Even though I know he loved me, I didn't really understand how much until after I was married. We didn't argue that much then, for which I'm glad, because I think our relationship grew stronger at that point.

So who is my father? Marvin LaCal Campbell was born on May 26, 1936 in Richfield, Utah, and he grew up in a little town called Antimony.

He helped his mother out quite a bit who had arthritis so bad she couldn't do much of anything. My father also took care of his younger sister and brother. This shaped him into the Father that did everything he could to take care of his family once he married my mom.

Soon he had three children. I was in the middle, and always getting picked on (so I'd thought). But still, Dad was always there to make us all feel special. He never spoiled one child over the other.

I remember the first time a boy broke my heart. I came home from school crying, and my dad told me not to worry, because no boy could ever love me like my dad did. He was definitely a wonderful man!

Later in life when he started getting sick - and when I was writing my story, Heart Of A Hero, I used my dad's name for my heroine's father. Even though my heroine's father does not die like my dad did, at least I could describe the helplessness and frustration I felt when I saw his life slowly slipping away.

When my book is published with my new publisher - Walnut Springs Press - there will be this dedication to my father.

I want to dedicate this book to my very first hero— my father, Marvin Campbell—who I fashioned my heroine’s father around. I wish my father could have lived to see this book published, but I know he was proud of me nonetheless. Dad, I miss you.

Dad, if you're looking down on me from Heaven, I hope you know how much I love you. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Died May 21, 2001
~Marie~

I GOT A CONTRACT!!

2010-05-04T01:37:00.002-06:00

I'm thrilled to announce a Christian publisher here in Utah - Walnut Springs Press - has offered me a contract for my historical romance, Heart Of A Hero. I will meet with them next week to go over the contract and my marketing plans. I can tell you right now...I plan on having many book signings from date of publication until Christmas...and longer if necessary. I'll announce here and on Facebook when and where I'll be!

I thank the Lord for giving me this chance to entertain people who love to read. It's what I've wanted to do for so long, and now...MY DREAM HAS COME TRUE!!!

This is what my story is about -

The West has bandits, rattlers, and sagebrush galore… Richfield, Utah has Jesse and Summer, the town’s newest and most hard-headed heroes.

When Summer Bennett returns home after five years of etiquette school for young ladies, she discovers her father has been injured and cannot walk. Gotta get money…fast, for his operation. The reward money for capturing outlaws is the only way, and etiquette falls by the dusty roadside. Yet Jesse, the town’s hero, is always trying to thwart her plans – just like when she was young. She'd like nothing more than to use his head for a slingshot target, but as her heart warms toward him her aim shifts from his head to his heart.

For thirteen years, little Summer was the burr under the Deputy Marshal’s saddle. Now Jesse Slade feels a different irritation. She’s on his mind even while searching for outlaws. As much as he’d like to ignore the newfound feelings he has around her, he wonders if the Lord is telling him she’s the one… Funny, because Jesse had always wanted to tie her to the outhouse before.

Happiness and dreams...

2010-05-02T16:43:00.000-06:00

When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us. ~~ Helen Keller

Happiness depends more on the inward disposition of mind than on outward circumstances. ~~ Benjamin Franklin

Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly. ~~ Lanston Hughes

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~~ Eleanor Roosevelt

I'm so nervous!

2010-04-28T08:15:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I heard from a Christian publisher who I had submitted my story Heart Of A Hero to two weeks ago. The publisher didn't offer a contract...but encouraged me to wait a week. (grins) Apparently, she had started reading my story out of curiosity and couldn't stop reading. She told me she was HOOKED. Not only that, she said she'd stayed after work to finish reading the story. I tell you, that is a HUGE compliment!! Now I have to be patient and wait another week to hear from her. Keep your fingers crossed!

Along with all the excitement yesterday, I was finally being able to figure out my hero in my newest story - Surrender Your Heart. In my story Heart Of A Hero, my heroine had brothers and sisters... Surrender Your Heart is one of the sister's stories. The hero was being difficult and not letting me figure him out. Finally, we had a heart-to-heart talk yesterday and I figured him out. Now I can't wait to start back on the story. Whew! My goal is to have this story as action-packed as Heart Of A Hero.