Ho-Ho-Ho Merry Christmas! From Us To You by Margo Hoornstra

During the upcoming Christmas Holidays, here at the Roses of Prose, do we have a gift for you. Several of them, in fact. Our way of helping you get into the spirit of the season and celebrate Christmas 2018.

Beginning November 26^th and running straight through to December 28^th eleven of the diverse authors at The Roses of Prose have written original Christmas short stories. Each story is presented in three one day installments for a total of thirty-three days of reading pleasure. Since The Roses of Prose has always been a blog of many genres within Romance, these stories will follow that tradition. From sweet to sinister and everything in between, with upcoming titles as diverse as Melt My Heart; Christmas at Sinners; A Very Merry Un-Christmas; Undead For The Holiday; What To Do About Joe; and my contribution, A Conflicted Christmas.

So enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, bask in the family time, then haul out the decorations and begin your holiday shopping soon after. When you need a break from the hustle, bustle and, yes, even stress of the upcoming Christmas Season, we’ll be here at The Roses of Prose to help you relax and refresh as we entertain you.

The fact we Roses author and present these stories each year, is one more of the many reasons I so enjoyed my time here at The Roses of Prose, and being part of such a kind and supportive group.

Each and every day we’re here for you, too, so when you’re so inclined over the next month or so to take a time out, grab a second cup of coffee, maybe even a donut or cinnamon roll, sit quietly, put your feet up and enjoy a few moments to relax and read Eleven Christmas Stories From The Roses of Prose all beginning with the same first line.

She peered through the snow-spattered windshield at the neon sign and hoped like hell there was room at the Inn.

Though I and this blog will no longer be here after December, I’ll still be around the virtual world at www.margohoornstra.com

#amwriting, Yes…But There’s More by Margo Hoornstra

Most publishers, The Wild Rose Press which is mine included, ask their authors to fill out Manuscript Information and Cover Art Sheets to accompany completed manuscripts. In my case, for the recently released On The Surface. Book 1 in the Brothers In Blue series.

The Manuscript Information Sheet is self-explanatory and contains pretty cut and dried information such as the dedication, praise and reviews, blurb, excerpt, brief author bio and keywords. I won’t bore you with the details of those items except for the last one. Keywords. For On The Surface, I chose rebel hero, framed heroine, secrets and betrayal.

The Cover Art Sheet, obviously used by the artist to design the cover, can be a little trickier to complete in that it makes you think about your manuscript beyond the main characters and story itself.

Starting out, providing physical descriptions of the hero and heroine, is easy enough and can be as simple as blonde hair, blue eyes, slim build, and such. Casual to formal dress. Jeans, tank tops and T-shirts. That kind of thing.

Then there’s time period, season and setting. Again, easy peasy. “Present time/contemporary. Spring through Summer at the Rest Easy Bed and Breakfast on fictional Cascade Lake, a resort town in Northern Michigan. Also, some scenes take place in Metro Detroit.”

Next up is tone of the book. In this case, I entered “Deception, concealed identities. All is not what or whom, they seem with the undertone of big city crime set on the backdrop of a beautiful resort town bed and breakfast.”

Then we come to the question of what is the most important element of a book cover? Person, place or object? Animal? Couple? If couple, in what pose? I take that to mean what is the main component that explains what you’ve written? My reply was “A landscape of a lake. The title, On The Surface, refers to the deceit of the hero and heroine regarding each other and their relationship.”

Final question. What is the story really about? After months of writing, re-writing, editing and re-editing the story this should be a piece of cake, right? Not necessarily. Following much deliberation, I came up with “Deception and pursuit of vengeance by the hero. Independence from an abuser for the heroine.”

Whew! Done and done!

As many of you know, this is the finished product. And I must say I’m thrilled with the result.

My days to blog here are the 11^th and 23^rd. For more about me and the stories I write, please visit my WEBSITE

And please note. If I don't respond to comments right away, I'm away from my desk for a while.

Merrily Suited Part Three by Donna Michaels

 

Merrily Suited

Part Three

by Donna Michaels

Talk…

Yeah, Lauren would get right on that once her heart dislodged from her throat and her voice returned. She was lucky she even remembered how to breathe with the gorgeous cowboy standing so close that his wonderful, spicy, ocean scent teased her senses.

Trent smiled and gently tugged her hair. “You can’t keep running from this, Lauren.”

She managed to clear her throat and tip her chin. “From what?”

“Us,” he replied. “And what happened when we kissed.”

Oh, that. Yes, she could.

His smiled deepened to reveal those dang, sexy dimples—the ones that made her knees weak. “No, you can’t,” he said as if reading her mind. “And you can’t tell me you didn’t enjoy our kiss.”

She grew up in a disciplined household and learned at an early age to bury her wants and needs in order to achieve success. This was no different.

The elevator opened to her floor. Grabbing Trent’s hand, she freed her hair before releasing him. “I did enjoy the kiss. Very much. But I love working for you and your brothers and will not jeopardize it by mixing work with pleasure. I’m sorry. I hope you understand.”

Without waiting for a reply, she exited the elevator and was relieved when he didn’t follow. It wouldn’t have taken much persuasion on his part to make her change her mind. Her heart sat like a piece of crushed lead in her chest as she let herself into her room.

Why did Trent have to be one of her bosses? She really wanted to pursue the crazy feelings he induced. But she just couldn’t bear to put herself out there only to end up like Sandy.

The vibrating of the cell phone in her pocket signaled an incoming call seconds before the ringing filled her room. Apprehension tightened the muscles in her neck. God, she hoped it wasn’t Trent. Walking away from him had been the hardest thing she’d ever done.

Glancing at the caller ID, she smiled. Sandy. She flopped on her back on the bed. “Hey.”

“Hey, yourself. How’s your weekend with Trent?”

She stiffened. “It’s not like that.”

“Too bad. It should be.”

Lauren sat up and blinked. “What?”

“You heard me. The two of you have been making googly-eyes at each other for years. I thought for sure, once you were alone this weekend, you know, the sparks would fly, clothes would fall, to all a good night.”

“I…” She wanted to set her friend straight and tell her she was wrong.

But Sandy was not exactly wrong, so there was no setting straight.

“Uh oh. Something happened. What is it? Spill.”

Again, the urge to deny was strong. Lauren had even gone so far as to shake her head, but the words wouldn’t form. Instead, she sighed and did as told. “We kissed under the mistletoe.”

“Sweet!”

“No, it wasn’t sweet. I mean, it was, but…darn it, Sandy. I don’t want to be attracted to him. I don’t want to like his kisses, or enjoy the feel of his arms around me.” Or get lost in his scent; Want his embrace to go on forever.

“Why not? Trent is one of the good guys. And believe me, they are few and far between. The two of you are perfect for each other. You're suited.”

“But he’s my boss.” There, she said it. “I don’t want to end up like y—” She stopped herself, but shouldn’t have bothered.

“Like me, you mean?” Sandy asked. “Oh, hun. Don’t let what happened to me with that jerk two years ago stop you from taking a chance on what could be the real deal with Trent.”

“But what if it isn’t?”

“What if it is?” Her friend countered. “Besides, I do not regret what happened.”

“You don’t?”

“No. Getting fired was the best thing that happened to me, because I met my fiancé at my next job.”

Fiancé?

Lauren inhaled. “You’re engaged?”

“Yes. That’s why I was calling. To tell you Paul proposed.”

“Oh, I’m so happy for you, Sandy. Congratulations. Paul’s a great guy.”

“Yes, he is, and he’s also my boss. Remember?”

She sank onto the bed and blinked. That’s right. Her friend had gotten a new job, and within a half a year, started to date her new boss.

“So, you see? It is possible to keep your job and have a relationship with Trent.”

If only…

“Promise me you’ll think about it.”

“I promise.” No way would she be able to think of anything else. 

***

The outdoor holiday gala was in full swing with vendor tents, food stands, face painting, and a visit from the big man himself. Seasonal music blared from speakers placed around the grounds, and families and people walked around with hot apple cider, hot chocolate and coffee, enjoying pumpkin rolls and pecan pie donated by the pretty chef from the Texas Pub up in Harland County.

Everyone was having a great time. Not Trent. Not really. He was going through the motions, even managed to paste a smile on his face as he helped people on and off the Santa-horse wagon while the driver remained on the buckboard seat. Everyone's happy faces and excited banter would normally warm his heart, but the darn thing didn’t seem to be working that day. It was kind of numb and reeling.

He’d foolishly thought once he got Lauren alone and away from the main store she would open up and admit her feelings. Dummy him. Her upbringing had kicked in and kicked him out.

“May I ride next?” A familiar, sweet voice asked from behind.

Lauren.

His pulse kicked into gear. Look at that. His numb heart sparked back to life. He’d seen her today, but hadn’t really talked one-on-one with the woman. What was the point? Even though her gaze had been friendly and smile warm, he didn’t want her to feel badgered, and the invisible bands squeezing his chest did not need more encouragement.

Keeping his smile in place, he turned to face her and blinked. Close up, her gaze was more than warm and friendly. A spark of interest lit those mesmerizing green depths. His heart jerked behind its invisible restraints, and then did something none of the happy people could manage to make it do—warmed at the blush creeping into her cheeks.

“Of course,” he answered, treading lightly, grabbing her hand to help her into the wagon.

Maybe the tightness in his chest prevented oxygen to his brain and he was seeing things he wanted to see.

“Good,” she replied, tugging on his hand when he made to release his hold. “Will you join me?”

His head reeled back. He hadn’t expected that question. He also wasn’t slow on the uptake. “Sure.” He quickly hoisted himself into the wagon and settled next to her on the bench.

As the driver made a clicking noise and urged the horse forward, she snuggled closer, causing his ears to ring and eyes to cross.

He cleared his throat and stared down at her. “Uh, Lauren, not that I’m not enjoying having you close, because I really do, but I’m a little confused. The last time we talked you said you didn’t want to mix business with pleasure.”

She tipped her head and stared up at him, that blush deepening along with her smile. “Let’s forget that talk. It never happened. I was stupid. Scared. Not thinking straight.”

“And now?”

“Now, I’m still stupid and scared, but I know what I want. I’ve thought about it all night.”

His heart rocked so hard in his chest he physically moved. “And what do you want, Lauren?”

“You, Trent,” she replied, heart in her eyes, stealing his breath which had already disappeared at the sweet sound of his name on her lips. “You were right. That kiss was amazing. And I think you’re amazing. I have for some time now.” She held up a hand when he opened his mouth to respond. “I meant it when I said I enjoyed working with you and your brothers. But, again, you were right. I can’t keep running from my feelings.”

Joy and happiness mixed to curve his lips into a grin he couldn’t hold back. “I don’t want to run from mine anymore either, Lauren. I know it’s a risk getting involved with a coworker, but it’s one I’m willing to take. You make me feel things no one has ever made me feel before. And I like it. A lot.”

“Yeah?” Her eyes were big and round and full of wonder.

Adorable.

“Yeah.”

A thousand watt smile lit her face. “Same goes,” she said, reaching up to cup his chin. “You’re definitely worth the risk.”

And as the Santa-horse wagon ride rolled on, Trent pressed his lips to Lauren’s, sealing a promising future his dad had set into motion nearly a decade ago.

~♥~

 Come back tomorrow for the start of another FREE Holiday story from Alison Henderson! The Rose of Prose will be posting free holiday stories using the same opening line all month long!

Don't forget my brand new release! HARLAND COUNTY CHRISTMAS is a prequel novella to my Amazon Best Selling Harland County Series! Read the first cowboy to fall...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3PON5G




I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

Merrily Suited Part One by Donna Michaels

Merrily Suited

Part One

by Donna Michaels

She'd never seen a Santa suit used in quite that way.

On a horse…pulling a red wagon decorated to resemble a sleigh with green garland, twinkling white lights, and silver bells. Because that was normal. Lauren Brewster smiled. It was for her bosses. Her three handsome bosses who owned a chain of feed stores throughout southern Texas. 

       The free Santa-horse wagon rides the guys started today were a big hit with the customers. A brilliant idea from three equally brilliant brothers. Born with good looks and brains, the Callahan boys also inherited their father’s sense of business and keen knowledge of their customer’s needs. It was never a dull moment at the store, and she enjoyed her job.

Hired right out of high school seven years ago by their late father, Lauren was lucky to work for the fun, smart, sexy cowboys. Her extended family. Brothers. Well, two of them. The third one, the middle one…not so much. Six-foot-one with powerful shoulders, dark brown hair, quiver-inducing chocolate brown eyes—milk chocolate, her favorite—Trent Callahan elicited absolutely no sisterly feelings from her whatsoever. Nada. Zilch.

He was hot.

She was sunk.

Especially now. They were both single. At the same time. Something that had never happened in all the years she’d known the charismatic man. And the fact she was accompanying him to Texas City for two nights to help oversee the big, outdoor, holiday charity bash the store sponsored every year was going to test her resolve.

And confirm her stupidity.

Spending two days in close proximity to the irresistible cowboy without his brothers around…yeah, not smart.

Inhaling, she parked in her usual spot behind Callahan Feed, and blew out the breath. Everything was going to be fine. Just fine. She’d managed not to act on her attraction to Trent for years now. This weekend would be no different.

Feeling better, she got out of the car as the handsome cowboy lumbered from the back door of the main building, worn jeans sitting low on his lean hips, black T-shirt stretched across the drool-worthy broad shoulders and muscled pecs not so hidden beneath an opened green and black flannel shirt.

“Hey, Brew.” He smiled, revealing dimples capable of reducing grown women into giggling schoolgirls.

She ought to know.

Her heart rocked hard in her chest then fluttered back into place. “Hi, Cal,” she replied in kind, using a variant of his surname.

Not once had either of them ever called each other by their first name. An unspoken rule. A smart one because, given her attraction to the cowboy, saying his first name aloud made it personal, and hearing her name on his lips would surely do her in.

“Ready for this weekend?”

No. Not really. “Yep.” She lied through her smile. Reigning in her feelings was crucial to the success of their trip—and her future—if she wanted to continue managing their main store. And she did. Very much.

“Good,” he replied, taking the initiative to grab her suitcase from the back seat, gaze sparkling with life as he straightened and shut the car door. “Because we’re going to have a memorable time. Trust me.”

***

 Trent Callahan was a patient man; in both his professional and personal life. By no means a slacker, he didn’t believe in procrastination, but there were times in his twenty-nine years when waiting proved smart, and the resulting reward, priceless.

Like now.

He glanced sideways at his silent passenger. A curtain of silky, golden brown hair obscured a face he knew to be beautiful with high cheekbones, mesmerizing green eyes, and full lips always ready with a smile. Except for today. No smile. No friendly chit-chat. Nothing. In fact, the woman who’d worked for the company since graduating high school, the one who’d touched his heart and didn't know it, was unusually quiet, and hugging the door as if he carried the plague.

“Everything all right, Brew?”

She turned to him and blinked. “Yeah, why?”

“You’re getting awfully comfortable with that door.”

Color crept into her delicate face, turning her eyes a deep, emerald, which never failed to take his breath. “I-I’m just sitting.”

He grinned. “Yeah, far away, as if I bite.”

Lord have mercy, her gaze dropped to his mouth and lingered, tempting, teasing, trying to pull the rest of the air from his lungs and force him to reveal his feelings, the ones he’d hidden for awhile now. Feelings he hadn’t recognized as more than friendship until they’d danced at a company Christmas party two years ago. The connection, the chemistry, had zinged through him with an unexpected wave of energy and heat he hadn’t been able to forget, or find with anyone else.

Not for lack of trying. He’d been in a relationship at the time, but when it had ended, Lauren had already started to see some college professor, and Trent had remained tight-lipped about his attraction.

Until now.

He was single.

She was single.

The time had come to test their chemistry and this trip was the perfect opportunity.

“How about we listen to some music?” He flipped on the radio and a jolly holiday tune filled the cab.

She smiled and settled back in her seat, not so close to the door, relief easing the tightness from her full lips. “Oh, I love this one,” she said, and began to sing along with Alan Jackson.

Sweet and warm, her voice surrounded him like a soft blanket, tugging a grin onto his lips, making him happy to be in her presence. He was always happy around her, but should he try to take that a step further? A relationship was risky, very risky. Lauren was a fantastic asset to the company.

Handpicked by his late father. She loved Callahan Feed as much as he and his brothers, Sam and Cordell. The last thing he wanted was to jeopardize their working relationship. But, the attraction was already getting in the way of work…for both of them, as his siblings had taken delight in pointing it out at their recent monthly meeting, all because he’d handed them October’s spreadsheet instead of November’s.

How his brothers had connected the mistake to his feelings for Lauren was still a mystery, but they were correct. She’d breezed into his office to hand him the day’s receipts, smelling of fresh apples with a hint of vanilla. He must’ve clicked on the wrong file to print when he’d leaned closer to her hair and inhaled deep, because, yeah, he was that far gone.

So, here he was on his way to the Gulf to do something about it. Trent just hoped to God he wasn’t misreading Lauren’s blushes and lingering glances. He’d hate to be in the off-kilter vortex on his own, or worse. Make the woman uncomfortable enough to quit. His father would roll over in his grave, and his brothers would skin him alive.

***

       She knew it. Lauren knew going to Texas City with Trent—alone—was a bad idea. It was a small miracle she hadn’t made more of an idiot of herself during the short drive down to the Gulf earlier that day. But the handsome man had a powerful presence. All consuming. His broad shoulders and solid frame evaporated space in the cab as rapidly as his warm gaze had zapped her brain cells. And what was with his friendly open expression? Darn thing sucked her in, upping her temperature and pulse. She had to cling to the door in order to keep from scooting over to him. The sexy cowboy was like a magnet, and she was a piece of trembling sheet metal.

A weak-kneed idiot.

Exiting the hotel elevator on her way to meet her boss in a lobby decorated in red and green for the holidays, she silently commended herself for having the foresight to book their stay weeks in advance. The place was nearly sold out, and if they’d had to share a room, she would’ve caved to the man’s charm in an instant.

That would’ve been bad.

Sandy bad. Lauren was determined not to end up like her friend Sandy. The poor woman had gotten involved with her boss, and seven months later, was single and unemployed.

Not her. No way.

She weaved through a throng of people waiting in line to check in and passed a group of carolers happily singing in the corner by a brightly decorated, ten foot Christmas tree. Their beautiful voices helped sooth her frazzled nerves, but she nearly stopped dead when she caught sight of Trent pushing from the far wall, staring straight at her, lazy smile tugging his lips. Her heart kicked her ribs then did that flutter in her chest thing.

Why did he have to be so dang good-looking? And why did she have to have this type of reaction to the man? Her pulse never leapt for his brothers. Why him? Was there a cure?

She needed a cure. Pronto.

And a miracle.

Her fluttering heart dropped to her feet when her gaze encountered a bigger problem.

Hanging in the doorway—a doorway they had to pass—sat a huge sprig of mistletoe. Not good. Lauren glanced at the other door. More mistletoe. She hadn’t noticed the twigs when they’d check in, but she couldn’t miss them now.

She was trapped. No matter which door she exited with the cowboy, they’d walk underneath the holiday’s excuse-to-kiss decoration.

Maybe he won’t notice.

~ ~♥~ ~

 Come back tomorrow for Part Two!

Today is release day!!! I have a brand new cowboy holiday release today! HARLAND COUNTY CHRISTMAS is a prequel novella to my Amazon Best Selling Harland County Series! Read the first cowboy to fall...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3PON5G

A New Year and a New Beginning by Jena Galifany

I feel privileged to be posting the opening blog for 2013. It is an honor, in more ways than one. I've been able to be the first Rose of Prose to welcome our readers to the new year. I'm further blessed to be able to actually post this blog after spilling a cup of Iced Tea in my computer just before I created this post!

After rushing my ailing computer, which was quickly flipped on its face to let the liquid drain instead of pool in the lower recesses of the laptop and turned off to minimize damage, home to my husband, the McGyver of all things fixable, the unit was quickly dismantled. In short order it was verified that the only problem with my close friend is she is in need of a new keyboard. One has been ordered and we are writing on an outboard keyboard to bring you this blog.  Thank you, Lord!

Moving on.  What does the new year mean to you? Is it a new opportunity to begin a new book, reading it or writing it? Does it mean starting over to read your Bible once through in a year? Does it mean starting a new relationship with an old friend or family member? Will you be making changes to your life to make it better?

There are so many things that can be attended to in the new year. It is a good time to break off the old and bring on the new. A time to set new goals and make new plans.

As for me, I plan on doing all of the things I mentioned above. I will read many books that I have standing by. I will write one or more of the twelve stories that I have waiting in my trusty laptop (once that new keyboard is installed!). I will read my Bible daily and finish it at least once before the year is up. I will enjoy a renewed relationship with a few of my family members. All of the changes I will make will improve my life. I know the only one who can make these resolutions and actually stick to them is me. The new year gives me the opportunity to improve my life and nothing will stop me except me.

What new resolutions will you make? Will you be recycling resolutions from years gone by? Why not? You only lose if you quit trying. Here's to a great new year and success to us all.

Read the first chapter of my published books on my WEBSITE.
Purchase my Books here: Whiskey Creek Press  -  Red Rose Publishing

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Cheers!
Jena Galifany

KISS ME I'M IRISH!

May the sun always shine on your windowpane, May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain, May the hand of a friend always be near you, May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you!     Irish Blessing.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! A day when the whole world is Irish! Have you ever wondered why everyone wants to be Irish…even for a day? Oh…there will always be the stereotype of a typical Irishman, probably best known for their ability to out-drink most other races. Or do you think it is the Luck of the Irish that everyone is seeking? Seen any little Leprechauns lately or chased any pots of gold?

I believe there is a romance to the thought of being Irish. Perhaps I’m bias because I married myself an Irish Lad…twenty-five years ago. I’m excited because to celebrate the family is traveling to Ireland this summer. I’ve never been. Looking forward to the adventure and it will be an adventure!

So today everyone is Irish. What does that mean to you? Here are a few tips on being Irish that I have learned over the years.

The Irish never know how to tell a short story.

The Irish may not know the words to a song, but it doesn’t stop them from singing it.

If you’re Irish you can't wait for the other guy to stop talking so you can start talking.

Matter of fact, why wait? Without question, the Irish like to talk.

I hear the Irish like their beer.

Being Irish means you have this need to know everything about everyone.

Being Irish means you have a big heart.

One more thing, St. Patrick’s Day is St. Paddy’s Day.

Honestly I don’t think I’ve ever met an Irishman I didn’t like. Have a great day. May you always have the luck of the Irish on your side.

May you live a long life Full of gladness and health, With a pocket full of gold As the least of you wealth. May the dreams you hold dearest, Be those which come true, The kindness you spread, Keep returning to you. Irish Blessing.

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

This coming week, Patriot Secrets with Wild Child Publishing is going FREE on Kindle Select. I'm so excited because I love this book. It's my mother's favorite book of mine. So if you want a copy, wait until Wednesday, March 21st. It will be free until the 25th. Tell your friends and join me over on my blog for a contest!

PATRIOT SECRETS


Today Dreamscape is free! Don't miss out on your free copy!

DREAMSCAPE

Poetry Anyone? How Do I Love Thee?

                                    HOW DO I LOVE THEE

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height

My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight

For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.

  I love thee to the level of everyday's

Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

I love thee with the passion put to use

In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.

I love thee with a love I seemed to lose

With my lost saints,—I love thee with the breath,

Smiles, tears, of all my life!—and, if God choose,

I shall but love thee better after death

                      by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

My favorite love poem...ever.

When the subjects for this month came up, I was so excited! I love poetry, especially lyrical poetry. With How Do I Love Thee? you can feel the romance with only the utterance of the words. I have to admit I enjoyed my course on English literature the most in college.

Poetry moves one; makes one feel an emotion. I don't think another period of time compares to the poetry that began with the Romantic Movement. The writings of Lord Bryon, Edgar Allen Poe... As a writer, I don't believe I could write a plot as intriguing or interesting as the life of these authors. Was it because of the life they lived that they could pour their emotions into their work? Elizabeth eloped with Robert Browning to Italy to find her semblance of happiness. Did you know that Edgar Allen Poe dedicated The Raven and Other Poems to Elizabeth? Another interesting bit of information on Elizabeth. Elizabeth lived in constant pain due to 'serious illness' that was never fully diagnosed. But she took opiates for the pain which was the common medical practice at the time. Some have thought that this addiction may have been the reason for her vivid imagination.

THE RAVEN

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered weak and weary,

Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,

`'Tis some visitor,' I muttered, `tapping at my chamber door -

Only this, and nothing more.'

...And the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting

On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;

And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor

Shall be lifted - nevermore!

                                                       By Edgar Allen Poe

I love the Romantic Movement's poetry and found the lives of these poets fascinating. I love history. I do feel Elizabeth's emotions in her poetry for whatever the reasons. I myself have never tried to write poetry seriously. Poetry is like writing a song. I lack the rhythm needed to write poetry. But I do so enjoy reading it.

THE JUDAS KISS

What I do write is historical romance and suspense. This month over on Whiskey Creek Press my book, The Judas Kiss, Tides of Charleston Series, is only $.99! This is celebration of their 9th birthday. I'm also celebrating it over on Novel Works with fellow WCP's authors including Roses, Jannine Gallant, Margaret Tanner and Jenna  Galifany next week March 5th- 9th. 

And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,

While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,

And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;

As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.

Translation of Success

Dexter

Honestly, I almost forgot about my blog. I have blogged nonstop for the last two weeks and here I am almost forgetting to blog at my own space. I've been busy. In the real world outside of my cave, I work overnights at a major hospital. I like my job. I need it. I have three children- one that just got out of college, one in college, and one that has just been accepted into college. I live in New England where the mortgages are high and the weather cold. I love my family and my animals. Well, yesterday one of my dogs did irritate me, but then again I was in a bad mood. And today, I'm going to get my taxes done. I cringe at the thought.

Colbie

When you get to be my age, some people begin to question what they have done and want to do in the future. I haven't, not since I began writing. Oh, I get frustrated at times with the venture. I love writing. It consumes me. I also have my fanpage, Novel Works, which I truly enjoy. I love meeting other authors and readers alike. I'm an avid reader and a big fan myself.

The Judas Kiss

I have been extremely busy the last few months. I have a series, Tides of Charleston with WCP. The first, The Judas Kiss, was released in January. 

Shadows of the Past

I also began venturing outside the traditional publishing arena. I tried Indie publishing. My first attempt was my fantasy series, Whispers of a Legend. I got such a positive response to my series that I released a historical romance, Daughter of Deceit. 

I went with Amazon Select with Daughter of Deceit trying to break through a barrier on Amazon that Whispers did for me on Barnes and Noble. Amazon Select allows a few free days. The last three have been Daughter of Deceit's free days. Never in my wildest dreams did I foresee what Daughter of Deceit would do. At it's highest point it reached #3 on Free Kindle- #2 on Romance- #1 Historical Romance- #1 on Romantic Suspense. I was thrilled. Did a happy dance all day yesterday until the reviews from readers started coming in on Daughter of Deceit. 

Now I do my own editing on my self-published books. I have made no bones about missing an editor, but I never saw some of the reviews coming at me- angry reviews about my editing-not my story-but my editing. Oh, I've had really good reviews too, but I never experience this with Whispers. These readers are mad at me! 

So what have I learned. I learned that I'm going out to get an editor. One of my Indie friends has suggested someone. I'm going to have Daughter of Deceit edited than go into print. It will take about a month I suppose to get it corrected. 

Daughter of Deceit

Success translates that there are certain expectations placed upon you. When I was looking around at the covers of the books around Daughter of Deceit they all have been professionally done. I got a professional to do Whispers of a Legend (love him, too), but its more expensive than doing it yourself. I love my cover to Daughter of Deceit. I did it myself with a little help from one of the Roses, Laura (she did our cover for A Holiday to Remember).

I think the expectations concerning Indies have been raised to a new level. I say this looking around the other books beside mine. Each book looks extremely professional. There are a couple of reasons for that. Bestselling authors have been bursting on the Indie scene with their backlist. Indies also have raised their skills. All good things.

I have been so fortunate also. I have gained some great friendships. People I can’t thank enough but in time I hope to return their kindness. I won't forget. I also wanted to mention that during my free run, I was on several blogs. Check them out if you get a chance.

Ghostly Regency Romance (Beth Trissel’s blog), Oh, What a Tangled Web (S. G. Rogers’ blog) or over on Lindsay’s Romantics.

For my first experience with a semblance of success comes a lesson- never stop. I love my books. I think Daughter of Deceit is a wonderful read. I’m so excited about Whispers of a Legend series and the potential of where it could go. It’s a little taste. I will learn from it. Kept family, friends and my doggies close at hand. And above of else…get an editor.

A Love That Takes Your Breath Away!

February…Valentine's Day…a great time for Romance, especially if you're a romance writer. Love. What's better than a great love story?

Taking a quote from Pablo Neruda

I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straight forwardly, without complexities
Or pride; so I love you because I knew no other
Way than this, where 'I' does not exist, not 'you'.
So close that your hand on my chest is my hand, so
Close that your eyes close as I fall asleep…

Isn't that what we all dream of? A love that takes your breath away.

When asked recently what was my favorite romance novel, I answered Ashes in the Wind by Kathleen Woodiwiss, a beautiful tale of love persevering. Then I began to wonder who influenced me to write romance. It was bigger than the love of one book. I considered all my favorite authors which would include Kathleen Woodiwiss and Margaret Mead, but the one author that influenced me the most would have to be Victoria Holt.

THE JUDAS KISS

Victoria Holt…the dame of romantic suspense! I grew up reading all her works even those under her pen names, Philippa Carr and Jean Plaidly. I suppose she is even responsible for my inability at times to follow the standard romance formula. She didn’t. She seemed to let the story write itself. I love the twist in Kirkland Revels with the threat of the asylum looming large for Catherine. Couldn’t have a more touching love story than On the Night of the Seventh Moon—poor Helena’s long suffering with questions on whether what she experienced was real or fantasy. Or Harriet not knowing if her husband whom she loved since she was child was trying to kill her in Menfreya in the Morning.

I had two books released in January. The first The Judas Kiss, Tides of Charleston Series, follows in the footsteps of Victoria Holt. Cathryn is caught in circumstances she has no control. When her life is endangered she believes the man she loves deserted her; he believes she has betrayed him with his best friend. The ultimate betrayal?  The Promise coming out in May will conclude the story between the two lovers following Cathryn back to Charles Town.

DAUGHTER OF DECEIT

Daughter of Deceit wrapped in mystery and intrigue with a touch of paranormal. Julian Casvelyn, who has long lived with the guilt brought on by the death of his brother, a brother killed by George Hythe, England’s most notorious spy. For years, Alyce Hythe, daughter of the infamous traitor, has been hidden away from the prying eyes of London Society, given a new identity and told to forget who she was. Thrown together by fate, the two search for answers long denied them and along the way discover a love that can free them both.

A love that takes your breath away.

The connection between my two releases? Both have titles once used by Victoria Holt. Coincidence. No. It’s my way of honoring a writer I greatly admired.

Have a great romantic month! Happy Valentine’s Day! You can find my books on the links below!

The Judas Kiss- Whiskey Creek Press

 Daughter of Deceit- Amazon Select

A KEY TO HAPPINESS

So our theme this month is organizing. By this time you realize that I'm not much for organizing my house. My thought with this blog is to help with another type of organizing. Organizing one's well being. A key to happiness. I don't have a magic wand, but I believe one key is knowing what makes you happy. My husband. My children. My family. My doggies. Those are a given and an easy answer. But today I'm not taking about who or what you love that makes you happy. I want to talk about what you do to make yourself happy. 

So what makes me happy?

  

I'm happiest when I'm busy. I'm like my father that way. He always had a project or two underway when I was younger. My father was a high school teacher and basketball coach. He was also a workaholic. My siblings and I used to cringe if he didn't have a summer job because it meant one thing- we were going to be busy. And I mean busy. One summer my father thought we should get a feel for what real work was like. He had us hoe out a whole cotton patch. Yes, manually. Yes, he had a tractor that could have plowed it nicely. But we wouldn't have gained that experience in life. Experience he always contended was important.

Over time I have come to realize one thing. I have become my father. No, I have never made my children hoe out a cotton patch, but it wouldn't have hurt them if they had. No, I have come to understand my father better, because in a sense I have become him. I have to be busy. I don't need a lot of sleep. I can't stand it when I don't have control of a situation. And I have become a workaholic myself.

I'll admit it. I like to work. I like my job at the hospital. I love to write. If I had a little more time, I'm sure I would like to clean my house...but I have all these projects. I read what most authors recommend- to complete one project at a time when it comes to writing. I'm sure that would be a good idea. I have only one problem with that- I can't do it.

THE JUDAS KISS

I'm happy when I'm writing. I'm not even organized when I write. I'm a panster. I don't follow an outline. I go with the flow of the story. Oh, I know where I want to go. It's just the journey to that end - most of the time, I'm not exactly certain how I'm going to get there, but I have faith in my story. It comes. I have to feel the story. But that means I go and come to my writings. When I'm in the middle of writing, I become obsessed with the story or that portion of it. If I'm stuck at a point, I move on to what I am feeling.

Why am I telling you this? It explains why I have so much going on this year with my writing. Everything seems to be finished at one time. THE JUDAS KISS was just released. It's my first book in the Tide of Charleston series. I'm so excited about The Judas Kiss because the series is set in Charleston. I love the mystic of Charleston. I have two more releases with the Tides of Charleston, The Promise in May and Another Night Falls is September. Under my pen name, Carrie James Haynes, I'm continuing on with the Whispers of a Legend series releasing, Vision of Destiny, hopefully at the end of February. Then I have Daughter of Deceit (historical paranormal) set to be released at the end of January.   

So much to do...but I'm happy. So what about you? What do you do that makes you feel better?

Check out my new release, The Judas Kiss, a historical fiction book sweeping from Charleston Harbor to the ballrooms of London during the turmoil of the American Revolution. Also excited- Whispers of a Legend, PartOne-Shadows of the Past has gone FREE on Amazon! 

SHADOWS OF THE PAST

Can find me over on Novel Works, my historical blog, and 

Castles in the Air.

TRICK OR TREAT! I prefer TREATS....

I love October. I love the fall. I love the beauty of trees turning colors, the slow pace of the world, the return of football…and October brings Halloween. When my kids were little, we had the best time dressing up for Halloween. Don't you just love the way you walk around with your children as they go door to door asking for candy…treats. I think I loved it because I ended up with most of their stash of candy. I love treats. 

Do you love treats? I don’t have candy to give away but I do have books. Or I should say some of the Roses of Prose have donated to a stash of books to be given away with the OCTOBERFEST WITH BOOKS CONTEST. Last week Novel Works held Suspense Week with Crimson Rose authors. What a great time. Gave away four books!!!! 

So what treat do I have this week for everyone…COFFEE TIME ROMANCE WEEK. Everything you want to know about Coffee Time Romance will be explored. Book reviews, live chats, Coffee Thought blog, interviews, and so much more. Check out Novel Works with everything Coffee Time offers. 

Reviews are so important to authors. Reviews influence a reader's choice in their selection. You need a place to go to trust the review…Coffee Time Romance. Coffee Time Romance is great for an author because they are so accessible; for a reader because they offer so much help in choosing just the right book for you. Win-win.  

So you want treats…let me tell you how you can gain a chance to win. OCTOBERFEST WITH BOOKS CONTEST is easy. First…follow this blog, Roses of Prose. If you already follow Roses, leave a comment below and your name goes in. Louise Jolly won for following last week. It could be you this week. Check out all the rules on my blog. Giving away books every week until the end of October when the grand prize- a week on Novel Works- is given away.

As a reader would you like the opportunity to post your favorite books for a week…as an author would you like the opportunity to promote your books for a week? 

You can if you win, but you have to enter first. Like, follow, like, follow. Treats...treats...treats...

In the weeks to come following Coffee Time Romance Week on Novel Works, I have a week spotlighting an author a day including Sherri Browning Erwin, Brenda Novak, Ruth Cardello and a special feature on Novel Works, a week with Crescent Moon Press (October's the perfect month for CMP) and a week spotlighting paranormal authors at Wild Rose.

Books will be given away also at the end of Coffee Time Romance Week including those from some of my fellow Roses. Have to wait to find out just ones are being given...but for the ones that have donated check out my blog...

You will find Jerri Hines' next release, The Judas Kiss, out this coming January with Whiskey Creek Press. A historical romance. She's excited because it’s the first in the Tides of Charleston series. You will find her other books, Dream Walker and Patriot Secrets, at most ebook stores. Follow her on Facebook- Novel Works is her fan page where I recommend books, authors, blogs… She's also on Twitter @jhines340. Don't forget the contest rules on her blog. Don't pass up the chance to win!