I'm in Back-Up Mode.

~~Vonnie Davis

Yup, I'm in backing up mode or I may have ADD. I can't decide which. And if I tell you, you're only going to shake your head and think my goodness, this woman can't finish anything! But it's how I work. Honest! Although I have to admit, it's never been quite this bad...but there are reasons...really, there are.

I was writing the first book of a new bear shifter series for LoveSwept when the editor at Random House asked to see the first two chapters to make sure I hadn't used any humor. I hadn't. Instead, she chewed me out for having other characters beside the heroine and hero. It was the beginning of the end of my time with LoveSwept. We parted on good terms and I smirk as I write that.

I asked some specific questions as to what I could and couldn't write on previously contracted projects with them. Had it put in writing and I was off on my own.

Well, since LoveSwept's ownership time was up on the Highlander's Beloved series, I could write as many episodes of it as I wanted. Readers of the series were emailing me, asking for more of Effie. So I backed up--leaving Kendric: Shifters of Sonas Isle--to give Effie one more episode as well as slide more smoothly into this new Sonas Isle series. My street team named this new book The Doctor's Bearside Manner. I should know better than to ask those ladies. They're a trip.

On our way home from our granddaughter's wedding last June,  our flight was delayed causing us to spend the night in a hotel. A storyline sprang from that. The first four chapters tumbled out before I could stop them, so I backed away from Effie's last story to work on MR. OH. I did finish that book. But--and there's always a but, isn't there?--it was much spicier than I normally write. My characters took me into the world of BDSM and I tried my best to make the journey humorous.

But what of my readers who auto-buy my books and don't care for this topic? They're going to be upset. I can't have that. So I invented a pen name, Renae DeVeau, and set up an online presence for her identity. An editor at TWRP loved MR. OH and we're waiting on final approval.

I was concerned I hadn't had a release since Christmas, so I revamped a book I'd gotten the rights back to: Mona Lisa's Room. I changed the head of the terrorist group, added more humor, and updated technology used. It's now NIKO: Licensed to Kill part of the Paris Intrigue series. The lady who does my book covers and formatting said it would be easier time-wise for her if I had two. Okay, I'll work on book two of the series, I told her.

While revamping NIKO, I couldn't help but notice how stronger my writing was five years ago. What in the world had happened? I was slipping, not getting stronger. Was it my editor's demands or me? I dropped into a major self-doubt mode. I needed a project to work on, to hone my skills.

So, I backed up to a writing prompt I'd done years ago that I thought would make a good book. The Golden Charm sprang to life. I was on chapter eleven when...

Amazon contacted me about writing for Kindle Worlds. So I backed away from the Golden Charm and began A Stranger's Dare.

I'd just written the first sex scene when it occurred to me I'd forgotten about revamping book two of the Paris Intrigue series. So I backed up to what was once Rain is a Love Song to what is now--JEAN-LUC: Once is Never Enough. Then I'll be able to get it and NIKO off to my formatter because I really do need a new book out there. I've only got eighty more pages to go to bring JEAN-LUC up to date.

Then back to A Stranger's Dare. I have until the middle of June to finish it. So, I'll be fine. Unless something shiny flies by and catches my attention. Remember: I'm creative...not necessarily sane.

Follow me on www.vonniedavis.com or www.renaedeveau.com 

One More Time For The Very Last Time, I Promise by Margo Hoornstra

Okay, last time for this then, I promise, it’s on to something else.

As I have shared here before, and this is really is the last time for now, I swear, I’ve been asked to be part of an upcoming box set of stories. Romance, of course, with a heat level of 3 out of 5, that centers around LaBonne Chance Casino in Victory, New York located a stone’s throw from Niagara Falls.

The title of the boxed set is: All In For Love, a Lucky 7 Anthology.

For Money Or Love is the title of my contribution.

Release Date:  June 1, 2017

Pre-Order Date:  May 15, 2017

Before you continued reading, though, take a peek at my cover...

Here’s a teaser about For Money Or Love to get/keep you interested…

She’s one woman he can’t afford to lose

Mega-millionaire Daniel Winston Montgomery lives to work at his prosperous software company. Scrimping to survive as a child, money means everything to Dan. He’ll do whatever it takes to preserve his wealth and the security it provides his mother and younger siblings. His brilliant top assistant, Lindsey Carr, is essential to his firm’s continued success. He has no problem sharing the fruits of their combined labors with her. Though, truth be told, he needs Lindsey far more than he she needs him…

Computer brainiac Lindsey Carr wants more out of life than her prestigious, well-paying job. She’s tired of being no more than boring tech support in a well-run software enterprise and craves a little excitement. Convinced Dan and his company will survive—and thrive—just fine without her, she tenders her resignation. After all, Dan has never required more from her than her superior analytical skills. Well, except for that one time she won’t let herself think about…

Unwilling to let Lindsey go, Dan must fight to keep her in his life. In a clash of priorities, will he choose money…or love?

Now a glimpse at Lindsey from Dan’s perspective…

“This man has a question for you.” Sally’s voice entered his office again, though not as loud as it was before.

Turning a slight right toward the door, Dan angled his head just enough so he could watch their exchange.

Lindsey wore slacks and a simple, sort of fitted sweater. He indulged himself and let his gaze slide down then up the well-shaped curves. Those he’d once been allowed to explore.

Briefly.

He opened his mouth and worked his lower jaw from side to side. Sally lifted one hand to indicate the delivery guy in a brown baseball cap who suppressed a yawn as he leaned against a two-wheeled dolly loaded with a stack of cardboard boxes. The monitors Lindsey had ordered. Large screen, high density, non-reflective. So no one will miss anything. That had been her sales pitch when she lobbied to buy them. Judging by the way her face lit up, she was happy to see the merchandise finally arrive. Why not? After the shipment was delayed, twice, by bad weather out west, Dan knew she was anxious to get them set up and in use.

She gave out one of her quick, warm smiles as she walked toward the man. Despite having already fielded an entire day’s worth of problems his first hour in the office, the corners of Dan’s mouth tipped up too.

That was Lindsey. Quick with the friendly attitude. He let go of another small smile and shook his head. Except with her, it was always genuine.

Eyes wide, Delivery Guy came to with a huge grin he flashed back at her as he leaped up to stand tall. “Yes, Ma’am!”

Take it down a notch, Pal. She’s happy to see the merchandise, not necessarily who brought it.

Genial expressions remained in place on both their faces as the pair launched into a short verbal exchange. Dan crossed his arms and tapped his foot. Get on with it, will you? We’ve got work to do. Lindsey pointed toward the small storage room on the near side of Sally’s desk area then said something to Delivery Guy who nodded with unnecessary exuberance. As she turned to lead the way, Delivery Guy’s gaze dipped to her ass. Where it stayed a hell of a lot longer than it had a right to.

Dan took a giant step toward the door then immediately pulled up. Now who’s got to take it down a notch?

Arriving at the storage room door, Lindsey stopped then pivoted to usher in Delivery Guy and his load. His attention did an abrupt return to where it belonged. With another quick grin that Lindsey returned, and a hand touched to the bill of his brown ball cap, he reversed direction and hauled the now empty dolly toward the door and out.

For God’s sake, Montgomery. Ease up! It wasn’t as if he had any right to an opinion one way or the other about anything when it came to the life and times, beyond the bounds of work, of Lindsey Carr. Best to remember the friends only request was hers. Sure as hell not his. All he could do was honor it like she asked.

Or take a chance on losing his best employee.

***

Oh, poor Daniel, he has so much to learn.

My days to blog here are the 11^th and 23^rd. Also, the first Wednesday of every month, I participate in a blog hop put on by the Insecure Writers Support Group

What follows is the why and how to do this, and I quote…

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time.

Let’s rock the writing world!

For more about me and the stories I write, please visit my WEBSITE

Are You a Spelunker? by Rolynn Anderson

I happen to be the sister of a geologist who works, on contract, for the U.S. Government.  Because he has clearance high on the intelligence scale, I can’t tell you much about his job, but my research online tells me the following: he’s probably looking for terrorists in caves (and figuring out how to keep bad guys from finding the good guys hidden in caves), and he might be sorting through underground facilities to stash vital people, equipment and munitions, as well as potent products like spent fuels.

My NATO geologist in BAD LIES http://a.co/0DuYNPn, researches how the caves and mines in Italy have been used for centuries, extrapolating how they might be implemented today.  ‘Jack Walker’ scans satellite imagery, pours through geology studies, and consults local geologists.  Field trips to the sites?  Jack’s favorite part of his job.  He tours the terrain, examines rock structures and explores caves, both man-made and natural. 

Want to spelunk with Jack? 

To give you a flavor of man-made caves, I chose some pictures of caves/mines in Italy, Orvieto, built originally by the Etruscans, 2500 years ago, used heavily in WWII.  Take a look:

https://history.denverlibrary.org/news/forever-italy-and-hidden-caves-orvieto-0

The grotto I talk about in my novel is a little spookier, a wonder of nature.  Here are some pics from Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g194863-d669726-Reviews-Grotta_dello_Smeraldo_Emerald_Grotto-Positano_Amalfi_Coast_Campania.html  Some caves/mines along the Amalfi coast range for a mile or more, with a maze of offshoots.  And dark?  Oh my, yes! 

I ask again, how many of you would enjoy exploring the caves on the coast of Italy?

While you’re thinking, here’s BAD LIES http://a.co/0DuYNPn:

Italy’s haunted caves spell danger for an American golfer and a NATO geologist

****

Sophie Maxwell is a late-blooming, unorthodox golfer, and mother of a precocious thirteen year-old. Determined to put divorce, bankruptcy, and a penchant for gambling in her past, Sophie goes to Italy for a qualifying golf tournament.

Jack Walker turned his back on a pro golfing career to become a geologist. As a favor to his ailing father he’ll caddy for Sophie; off hours, he’ll find caves on the Mediterranean coast, suitable for NATO listening posts for terrorist activity.

Someone is determined to stop Jack’s underground hunt and ruin Sophie’s chances to win her tournament.

On a Rome golf course and in the Amalfi coast’s haunted caves, all the odds are stacked against Sophie and Jack.  In their gamble of a lifetime, who wins?

Seven Suspense Novels Spiked with Romance

Web and Blog:

http://rolynnanderson.com

Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rolynn-Anderson/188767867821613 

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/rolynnanderson

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4990049.Rolynn_Anderson

Quit Wishin' Go Fishin' by Brenda Whiteside

I did that on Thursday. Went fishin' with FDW. I don't think the old saying actually means go fishing, but it's the number one thing in life my husband loves to do. Since I try to spend time with him once in awhile...I fish. Or read. If I'm not catching, I read. On those fishing days, I'm forced to relax. Apache Lake is one of the most scenic and serene lakes in Arizona. It does me good to take the time to relax even if I'm no good at it.

Time has always been my enemy. This battle started in high school. In my sophomore year, I realized there wouldn't be enough time for me to get in all the classes I wanted to take. I went to my counselor and asked if I could take seventh hour in addition to my regular day. Seventh hour was for those students who had a job and needed time out of their school day. She refused me. No one did that. I was a teenager and needed my leisure time too. I had plenty of leisure time, but she didn't believe me.

As an adult, I've learned all kinds of tricks to get more done with what little time life is giving me. And I've stopped getting too upset about missing my self imposed deadlines. Well, sort of. When I turned thirty, I was depressed for months. I'd had a benchmark for what I should've accomplished, and I'd missed it. Getting depressed is useless (it keeps you from getting anything done), so that reaction no longer has a place in life. I just kick butt tomorrow for what I didn't get done today.

Right now, family events are keeping me hopping so I'm writing to word count each day. Yes, so structured, but on this latest book it's a must. Most of the time, when not writing, I'm doing two things at a time. Thank heaven for my pocket calendar to keep it all organized. And thank heaven for FDW who forces me to relax at least once a week and do nothing but sit in a boat and enjoy nature.

I have a feeling most authors feel this time thing too. Not enough hours in the day. Authors and readers...how do you cope?

Brenda and her husband are gypsies at heart having lived in six states and two countries. Currently, they split their time between the pines of Northern Arizona, the desert of Southern Arizona, and the RV life. Wherever she roams, she spends most of her time writing stories of discovery, suspense, and the tangled relationships of life. 

Visit Brenda at www.brendawhiteside.com

Or on FaceBook: www.facebook.com/BrendaWhitesideAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/brendawhitesid2

She blogs on the 9^th and 24^th of every month at http://rosesofprose.blogspot.com

She blogs about life’s latest adventure on her personal blog http://brendawhiteside.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003V15WF8

Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3972045.Brenda_Whiteside

The Wedding, Part Two by Andrea Downing

If you’ve ever watched ‘Project Runway’ you will know that the most biting criticism Michael Kors can make of a design is that it’s ‘sooooo Mother of the Bride.’ 

Being Mother of the Bride entails almost as much beauty and dress consideration as that of the bride—there’s the same rush to lose weight or keep weight down, the same discussions with a hairdresser and/or make-up artist, and the same madness concerning what-to-wear, only there’s no bridal salon to help.

I lost some weight, but not much.  Medication for AFib and blood pressure has got my metabolism going backwards while age has got my flesh sagging southwards.  I envisage myself looking one way and find something totally different in the mirror, much to my disgust.  With time at a premium, dress after dress arrived from every department store imaginable and was just as swiftly returned to them, with such speed it sent my credit card swirling. 

The $8,000 dress I WON'T be wearing!

A visit to Saks found me the most gorgeous dress in which I felt like a princess, looked like a million, and fainted at the $8,000 price tag.  An overconfident salesperson? What would I be paying for?  It was just a floor-length, shirt-waist  dress that the designer had manufactured in a rather nice silk.

Cristal and I set aside another evening, after she got off work, to go look again, this time starting at Bergdorf’s.  It was a disaster.  While a dear friend had suggested I book personal shopping, personal shopping had lost my booking and handed me over to a gentleman salesperson who knew nothing about me, despite the lengthy info sheet I had completed.  After trying several dresses, we headed off to what we believed was our last chance, a small boutique specializing in evening wear.

Nothing appeals to me much less than pulling off layer upon layer of winter clothing to slip into the silken folds of some evening dress that makes me look like Miss Piggy the day she danced with Nureyev, even if the dress was designed by the same Italian who did my daughter’s beautiful wedding gown.  After about four dresses were discarded and handed out through the curtain to our nervous salesperson, I finally slipped on a dark blue dress, off the shoulder, with a low back,  and very slimming. Cristal zipped up the back.  Bingo!  I looked fantastic.  I stepped out of the dressing room—and was told the dress was on backwards. A wraparound belt hides the front zip.  Wonderful!  What better!  It will save me the indignity of having to ask the doorman to unzip my dress in the back at two o’clock in the morning.  No, it isn’t off the shoulder nor low in the back, but the cowl collar suits me and I was set to go. And it sure as heck didn’t cost Eight Grand.

While my daughter has been a major domo, working to both save the world and save the wedding, I’ve stood by aghast at the ideas that have flowed past me.  Place settings, transportation up to the Botanical Gardens where the wedding is being held, a bilingual website with all the information and for easy R.S.V.P.ing, gift bags, ballet shoes so the ladies can kick off their heels to dance, hairdresser, and make-up. And spray tan.

Spray tan?

What a super idea.  I have such white, pasty skin I was immediately game for this innovation.  My niece did this prior to her wedding and looked fabulous—immaculate. We decided both Cristal and I would go for a trial run at the same place as my niece. I tell you now I have never before had spray tan.  I had used tanning beds ages ago before beach holidays, but never had the color sprayed onto me.  I may have even tried the stuff that comes out of a bottle and leaves your bathroom a wreck but spray tan, not on your nelly.

Let me sum it up by saying nothing is more humiliating than standing stark naked except for a paper diaper and a plastic shower cap while some stranger sprays what looks like liquid poo-poo at you. 

Still, the only disaster thus far in the proceedings is that Cristal’s hairdresser has family problems and won’t be able to do her hair.  He is, however, training a replacement.  If that’s all that goes wrong. . . .

And should Carolina Herrera wish to make a donation of her evening dress, she can find me at http://andreadowning.com