Reader, writer, romance novelist. I write romance and young adult.

Monday, December 26, 2011

As 2011 comes to a close

I have many things to be grateful for this year. On a personal level, we all came through healthy and employed, the kids in the family doing well in school, and a roof over our heads.

On a professional level, my novel The Heart Gem sold and will be released March 28, 2012. I’m steadily working on my young adult paranormal romance The Monster and can now see the end of the tunnel.

I wish everyone a fantastic 2012 filled with health, prosperity, and love.

Monday, November 21, 2011

The Heart Gem release date

The release date for The Heart Gem, a historical paranormal romance novel, is set for March 28, 2012!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

The Heart Gem Excerpt

Hallie’s bottom shifted from Bremen’s lap onto the cold stone garden bench. Why was he stopping just when the moment was getting interesting? Then she heard the footsteps in the distance, rustling along the path. Her head still blissfully dazed, Bremen’s possessive hands moved to straighten the aquamarine gown’s bodice, which had drawn away completely from her breasts.

Clay stepped into sight. His face was an angry red, even in the dark night. She jumped at the intrusion and attempted to yank her hand out of Bremen’s, but his firm palm held on without releasing.

“Bremen Tyler, how dare you encroach on our relationship? Hallie and I have a long-established agreement among our families. You must honor this arrangement and withdraw your presence.” The shrillness of Clay’s voice reverberated through the grounds.

“I haven’t been informed of a promise or understanding. In fact, I have heard from the lady she is uncommitted. A state I’m determined to reverse.” Bremen’s deep voice was low and controlled.

“She would be committed to me if it were not for you. You are confusing her; she loves me but you are filling her head with promises and nonsense.”

“I have given Hallie neither false promises nor nonsense. She knows my true feelings.”

"She also knows my feelings and has said she will consider my offer of marriage.”

Both men stared, waiting for a decision

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Rise of the Planet of the Apes movie review

Watched the Rise of the Planet of the Apes movie this weekend. Wow! There were lots of fabulous special effects, non-stop action, and great message about what happens when you mess with nature.

Original movie with Charlton Heston was a great classic this sci-fi geek loved. The newest movie tied in the space launch which took Heston’s character into outer space and explained how the apes were able to speak.

Trust me, there will be a sequel. Can’t wait!

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Power outages

For the last three weeks our electric power has been going on and off. Not much fun especially when you add in the heat wave.

Not having a computer didn't stop me from writing, though. I took out the paper (!) notebook and started scribbling scenes and dialogue. Making notes on Goal, Motivation, Conflict.

So now the power is back on, but I miss the putting my thoughts on paper. So, I'm off this afternoon to the nearest coffee shop... We'll see how this works out...

Friday, July 22, 2011

Paperwork and Virtual stuff

I have finally negotiated through contract and other information for the publisher. Very exciting and grateful for this opportunity, but it is a little daunting at times.

Now must move on to the virtual stuff...

Monday, July 18, 2011

Just made my first sale!

My manuscript, The Heart Gem, is a paranormal/fantasy romance novel set in 1885. It will be published by The Wild Rose Press. Not sure yet of the publication date, but I'm very excited!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Love summer!

What better time in the Midwest than summer? Hot weather, cool drinks, slower pace. Add some festivals and grill-outs and you have a perfect fit.  I need to find a place in the world that has 70 to 90 degree weather year round, then move there.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 - On Stranger Tides

Pirate Captain Jack Sparrow is back in a race to find the legendary Fountain of Youth.

Romance, betrayal and high adventure abound in the exciting fourth installment of the series. Good writing, fantastic sets, and costumes add to the thrill.

If you haven’t seen the other three Pirates movies, you may lose out on some of the story, but it really doesn’t matter. Johnny Depp still makes it worthwhile.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Movie review: Slumdog Millionaire

Ok. So I've been busy and got a little behind on my movie watching. Glad I finally got round to this Academy Award winner.

In Slumdog Millionaire, Jamal Malik rises from harrowing poverty to love and fortune.

Born in a destitute Indian slum, Jamal's life actually goes downhill when a village massacre orphans him and his brother. Together with lovely Latika, the three children try to survive by any means they can. Jamal and Latika become separated but are reunited when fame brings Jamal on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" TV show. Jamal's life becomes the backdrop as he tries to convince his doubters that he's not cheating.

You just can't help but root for this wonderful young man. as he tells his story. You'll also walk away counting your blessings.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Las Vegas Spring Break Trip

Returned from sunny (albeit cold) Las Vegas last Saturday. Didn't win anything, but Bellagio's definitely lost money on me when it came to their tasty buffet.

This was our first time back to LV after an initial trip about fifteen years ago. Everythings different. But good different. Hotels are classier, themes are inspired, and Hoover Dam even more impressive than before.
Think I'm set now...maybe for ten years this time.

Next trip....something more exotic and unexpected. Any ideas?

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Jane Eyre

Just re-read Jane Eyre, for maybe the tenth time. I can't get enough of tortured, gothic characters like Jane and Rochester. What does that say about me, hmmm? Next up, Wuthering Heights, I think. Cathy and Heathcliff and kleenex time - they all go together.

I want to see the new Jane Eyre movie, but can't get Mr. Macotte to come with me. I crossed my fingers and promised him there WOULD be a car chase and a shoot-out, but he didn't fall for it.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Red Riding Hood movie

Looking for a dark, intense werewolf movie? Here you go.

Red Riding Hood (Valerie) must choose between the man she loves and the man she is engaged too. Throw in a werewolf that attacks Daggerhorn at the time of the blood moon, and you have a romance-action-horror film.

Top it off with a somewhat happy ending and a setup for a second movie. Would I recommend it? Yes, for those who are fans of this genre.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Info about my manuscript - The Heart Gem

I've completed a historical romance with paranormal elements. Currently I'm working on the second of the series, The Heart Compass