Friday, November 30, 2012

Fall in Love with Some Highland Magic



Throughout the Highlands she is known as Keely, the witch woman. She is a great healer-a woman whose dreams come true. Ian MacPherson is a man who puts honor, loyalty and duty above everything. Their lives are entwined when Ian is sent by the Scottish King to bring Keely to trial for witchcraft. He is attacked and left for dead, but Keely rescues him. When he wakes, he discovers he has no memory. As he remembers his lost past, Ian finds that his need to protect the woman who has saved his life eclipses his duty to his king and country. He is a man torn between honor and duty to his country and the woman he loves.


Exclusive Excerpt



He led her to the window where the skies let loose a thunderous din. Lightning streaked across the heavens above and rain fell in torrents. She shuddered, knowing they might have been in the storm unprotected if the deluge had arrived one day sooner. Suddenly she felt as if her entire life was a tempest. Until all was resolved with James, no peace could be found.


"I love this land," he spoke softly and his words whispered across her cheek. It seemed he wanted to say more but he stopped.


"So soon? You have been here but one day."


"Aye," he told her. His lips brushed her neck then moved softly across her cheek, slowly brushing her lips.


She had waited so long for this moment. Yet she feared what she did not understand. He charted new territory, a path she'd never traveled before.


"Ian," she whispered, yet his lips molded more firmly over hers and for the moment halting further conversation, his tongue stroking the soft fullness of her lips. Heat and fire swept through her. All he did stoked a rising inferno within her.


He pulled away and seemed to study her, his eyes questioning, perhaps challenging her. "Keely." Still, he whispered her name tenderly. His hands bracketed her neck, his thumbs gently stroking her chin and once more the line of her lips. "You have the softest lips I have ever kissed."


"Ian," she left off, not having any idea what to say to him or how to accept a compliment she'd never heard before.


He laughed and kissed her once more. This time her lips seemed to part of their own accord. His tongue stroked and plunged. She swayed into him, remembering his other kisses and the heat that exploded within her whenever he touched her so very intimately and so very tenderly. Nay, whenever he touched her at all.

To Purchase Highland Magic
Rogue Phoenix Press

About the Author



Born in Medford, Oregon, novelist Christine Young has lived in Oregon all of her life. After graduating from Oregon State University with a BS in science, she spent another year at Southern Oregon State University working on her teaching certificate, and a few years later received her Master's degree in secondary education and counseling. Now the long, hot days of summer provide the perfect setting for creating romance. She sold her first book, Dakota's Bride, the summer of 1998 and her second book, My Angel to Kensington. Her teaching and writing careers have intertwined with raising three children. Christine's newest venture is the creation of Rogue Phoenix Press. Christine is the founder, editor and co-owner with her husband. They live in Salem, Oregon.
 
You can learn more about Christine and her books at her website:

Before you leave be sure to leave Christine a comment with your email.  She is  awarding a $15.00 Amazon Gift Card to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and a $10.00 Amazon Gift Card to a randomly drawn host as well as ten MacPherson book marks to randomly drawn commenters.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Update on Upcoming Giveaway



My 12 Days of Christmas Contest Kicks off on December 1 as does many other authors. My 1st Day of Christmas Virtual Gift Box will include: iTunes Gift Card, and books by Author Terri Marie, Author Mary Campisi, Author Cali MacKay, Author Sydney Landon. Be sure to stop by my facebook page Saturday for more details. Facebook Author Page

To see who else is doing contests please visit: 12 Days of Authors Giving Back

Monday, November 26, 2012

12 Days of Christmas Contest


 
 
 
 
 
Twelve Days of Christmas Contest


This contest is my way of saying thank you to all the readers who took a chance and picked up my books this year. I hope you have all enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them. The contest will begin December 1 and run through December 12. Each morning I will post a question on my Facebook page www.facebook.com/christinatetreaultauthor order to be entered to win you post a comment.  In addition to my prizes several other authors have donated ebooks to the contest. 


For a list of author doing 12 Days of Christmas Contests Visit:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/12DaysOfAuthorsGivingBack

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Black Friday Blog Hop Winners




After over 8,000 comments our BLACK FRIDAY HOP has some grand prize winners!!
Congrats!


Grand Prize Winners:


Kindle Fire Winner:

Angela Heart


$75 Amazon Gift Card:

Emma D.


Swag Pack:
Kim Brooks

The grand prize winners have already been notified and have their prizes or the prizes are on their way!
 
Winner From Happily Ever After Giveaway
 
Lisa Rayns
 
Be sure to join me in December for another Hop

Saturday, November 24, 2012

FREE A Contemporary Highland Romance


When Dr. Catriona Ross discovers clues to a long lost highland treasure, her only hope of finding the jewels is to obtain the help of Scotland's most eligible bachelor and playboy, Iain MacCraigh.

Iain can't believe his luck when he finds out the jewels are hidden away somewhere on his land-- and it doesn't hurt that the historian looking for them has curves to go with her smarts. With his brother betting the family fortune, this is the life line he desperately needs.

The odds are against them, and with word getting out about the jewels, they're not the only ones on the hunt. Time's running out, but can they learn to trust each other, or will they lose the jewels and true love in the process?

* This is Book One in the series. *


Amazon

Friday, November 23, 2012

Black Friday Blog Hop and Giveaway



Since you're reading this now, I am guessing that either you're like me and don't want to deal with the shoppers out today, or you're taking a little break to regroup.  Either way I am glad you stopped by for a visit.

Like many of you, I spent the day yesterday celebrating Thanksgiving with my family.  Thanksgiving is actually one of my favorites because I get to spend time with my family without the stress of finding just the right present for everyone.  This year there were 18 people (5 of whom are children) around the dinner table, the oldest being my husband's grandmother who is almost 96 and the youngest being my identical twin daughters who are 3.  As you can imagine with that many people and such a wide range of ages, Thanksgiving around here is a little crazy.  But that is okay, after all family is what the holidays are all about.  Personally, I think family is extremely important regardless of what definition of family you use.  This is part of the reason I like to write romance novels with strong family elements such as those books in my current series The Sherbrookes of Newport. 




And speaking of romance novels, I have put together a list of books for you to pick up for yourself.  After all, we all deserve to get ourselves a little something.

Books I Have Read and Recommend:

Beneath the Wall  My Review
The Rock Star Next Door  My Review
Skykeepers  My Review


Books I Have But Have Not Yet Read (But I have high hopes for):

Winter's Magic
Bedding The Billionaire
Bluegrass State Mind
Dawnkeepers
Reckless: Highland Brides

Books That Have Been Featured On The Blog:

Deadly Relations
Spirit Board
The Billionaire Wins The Game
The Way They Were



Now before you go don't forget to leave a comment with your email to be entered into the Grand Prize Giveaway! We have THREE.  You as a reader can go to EACH blog and comment with your email address and be entered to win. Yep, you can enter over 200 times! To Do So Visit Carrieann Blog Hops for a complete listing of blogs involved.

Now what are those prizes?

1st Grand Prize: A Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet

2nd Grand Prize: A $75 Amazon or B&N Gift Card


3rd Grand Prize: A Swag Pack that contains paperbacks, ebooks, 50+ bookmarks, cover flats, magnets, pens, coffee cozies, and more!
 
In addition to the Grand Prize Giveaway, I am awarding one reader ANY ROMANCE EBOOK of their choice.  Once a winner is picked I will contact them and they can tell me what EBOOK they want and where they want to receive it from.
 
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Free Forbidden Disclosure


Francesco Giordano wants to retire and turn over his shipping empire to his only son Daniel. But the young, gorgeous, and sexy Daniel is more interested in fast cars, the family jet, and bedding women.

When Francesco decides the best way to make his son grow up is to change his identity and move him away from his Manhattan penthouse, Daniel's world begins to rock.

Sent to a little town in Tennessee, stripped of his family name and all access to money, Daniel finds himself on a mission to prove to his father that he can make it. If he doesn't, he risks losing the family business and billions of dollars.



Country life isn't setting very well with the fast-paced New Yorker, until he meets the woman who stirs up every one of his senses. Katherine is beautiful, sassy, and has no intentions of hooking up with the new stranger in town. She leaves without a word. Will Daniel risk it all to find her?

Amazon

A Journey of Rediscovery, Lies, and Love


He hasn’t spoken her name in fourteen years. She keeps a journal hidden in the back of her closet and permits herself to write about him once a year—on the anniversary of the first and only time they made love. They promised to love one another forever, but tragedy tore them apart. Now, destiny may just bring them back together.

At eighteen, Rourke Flannigan and Kate Redmond thought they’d spend the rest of their lives together—until a family tragedy tore them apart. Fourteen years have passed and they’ve both carved out separate lives hundreds of miles apart—hers as a wife and mother, his as a successful, driven businessman. But once a year, on the anniversary of her daughter’s birth, Kate pulls out a red velvet journal and writes a letter, which she’ll never send, to the man who still owns her heart. Once a year, on the anniversary of the first and only time they made love, Rourke permits himself to read the annual investigative report detailing an ordinary day in Kate’s life.

When a subcontractor at one of Rourke’s holding companies is killed, Rourke decides to pay the widow a visit and offer condolences, never dreaming the widow will be Kate. As they embark on a cautious journey of rediscovery, one far greater than they could have imagined, secrets and lies threaten to destroy their newfound closeness—forever.


Amazon

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Now Available Part 3 in the Tides of Charleston Series


Sumner Meador walked in a world of wealth and privilege as part of Charles Town’s elite, but that was years ago. Now he fights in the Southern backwoods driven by the passion he holds for the Patriot cause, shadowed by his past. Reeling from a devastating defeat at the hands of the British, Sumner seeks haven at his farm, only to find an interloper—an unwelcome and unwanted distraction. He has no time for the young woman or the complications she brings with her, but soon discovers he has no option but to give aid to the stubborn, courageous beauty whether she wants it or not.
A widower, Sumner has been haunted by the death of his wife and is consumed with a desire for revenge.


Jane Kilmer has been violently thrust into the midst of the civil war ensuing in the backwoods. Hiding from one of the most dangerous vigilantes, Jane trusts no one. Suddenly, she has no choice but to put her life in Sumner’s hands. Both desire revenge, but neither wants what happens—to fall completely, undeniably in love with each other—so much so, that both are willing to die for the other. And they might have to.

Amazon

FREE Rules of the Game From Heather Peters



FORWARD PASS
Cam Landry is the new unattached quarterback for the New York Falcons. When his anger on the field nearly gets him benched, he’s ordered to join a yoga class to tame his occasional bouts of temper.
Amanda Abbott is a pretty yoga instructor, whose heart has just been broken. Her work with the handsome Cam is just the distraction she needs. But will they back away from their feelings or will Amanda be able to improve Cam's ….Forward Pass?

FACE – OFF
Adam Piersson is the strong and silent captain for the New York Thunder and a serial bachelor.
Elena Collins is the woman who dares to seduce him into playing one on one with her.
When they start a torrid affair with no strings attached, Adam discovers he wants more from Elena than just a simple….Face-Off.


Amazon

Monday, November 19, 2012

Love Paranormal Romance? Check out Spirit Board


Preschool teacher Sara Jane Marafae is a descendant of Oberon the fairy king and a witch. As a result of her bloodline, Sara can see and communicate with spirits. In order to capture the head of a drug ring, hunky undercover agent Luke McGraw is sent to a party at Sara’s house. Trouble erupts when Sara’s ex-roommate gets her hands on the Marafae’s heirloom Spirit Board.


Amazon

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Maid For The Billionaire FREE


From Best Selling Author Ruth Cardello Book 1 of The Legacy Collection
 
Dominic Corisi knew instantly that Abigail Dartley was just the distraction he was looking for, especially since having her took a bit more persuading than he was used to. So when business forces him to fly to China, he decides to take her with him, but on his terms. No promises. No complications. Just sex.

Abby has always been the responsible one. She doesn’t believe in taking risks; especially when it comes to men - until she meets Dominic. He’s both infuriating and intoxicating, a heady combination. Their trip to China revives a long forgotten side of Abby, but also reveals a threat to bring down Dominic’s company. With no time to explain her actions, Abby must either influence the outcome of his latest venture and save his company or accept her role as his mistress and leave his fate to chance. Does she love him enough to risk losing him for good?


Amazon

Upcoming Blog Hop

 
 
 
While the rest of the US is out handling the crowds, fighting for their holiday gifts, some of us like to stay in, shop online, or just ignore Black Friday all to together. This year, join us in our second annual Black Friday Blog Hop! It's a ONE DAY hop where we're giving away prizes, talking about books we love, and most likely eating left over turkey. :-)

The hop is November 23rd and is ONE DAY only.

And while we do that, we are EACH doing a giveaway. Yep. There will be over 200 giveaways on each blog hosted by that Author or Blogger.

But that's not all....

We have THREE grand prizes. You as a reader can go to EACH blog and comment with your email address and be entered to win. Yep, you can enter over 200 times!

Now what are those prizes?

1st Grand Prize: A Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet
2nd Grand Prize: A $75 Amazon or B&N Gift Card
3rd Grand Prize: A Swag Pack that contains paperbacks, ebooks, 50+ bookmarks, cover flats, magnets, pens, coffee cozies, and more!

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Best Selling Author Kathleen Brooks Book 1 Free

 
This is the first book in Kathleen Brooks' Best-Selling Bluegrass Series.

McKenna Mason, a New York City attorney with a love of all things Prada, is on the run from a group of powerful, dangerous men. McKenna turns to a teenage crush, Will Ashton, for help in starting a new life in beautiful horse country. She finds that Will is now a handsome, successful race horse farm owner. As the old flame is ignited, complications are aplenty in the form of a nasty ex-wife, an ex-boyfriend intent on killing her, and a feisty race horse who refuses to race without a kiss. Can Will and McKenna cross the finish line together, and more importantly, alive?

Amazon

Friday, November 16, 2012

Free The Billionaire Wins The Game by Melody Ann

 
ALL NEWLY PUBLISHED WITH DELETED SCENES AND AN ADDITIONAL 25 THOUSAND WORDS. SEE THE FIRST BOOK OF THE ANDERSON SERIES.

Joseph Anderson has decided it's time for his three successful sons to find brides. Joseph wants grandchildren to fill his mansion, and he wants them immediately. His eldest son, Lucas, is successful in all areas of his life, except love, and Joseph begins matchmaking. He finds Amy Harper and deems her the perfect daughter-in-law. He just needs to get her and Lucas to both realize they're made for each other.

Lucas Anderson is wealthy, sexy, and stubborn. He has no desire to have any woman enter his life, causing chaos, or using his family's name. Many women have tried, and he's been successful in finding out who they are beneath their false smiles.

Amy Harper was raised in tragic circumstances and doesn't like pampered, rich men who have been handed everything with a silver spoon. She spent years finishing her education and then received a job with the Anderson Corporation. She instantly doesn't like her incredibly sexy boss, who is arrogant and thinks every woman should fall at his feet.

When Amy becomes pregnant after one reckless night of passion, she's scared he'll take the baby and run. Lucas is demanding, and used to getting his way, but Amy has just the right amount of spark to ignite his fuse, and challenges him each step of the way.

Lucas's father, Joseph, and his brothers Alex and Mark, offer laughter, love, and support. With the love of Lucas's family, who aren't only rich and successful, but also kind and giving, Amy starts to realize that being wealthy doesn't make or break a man, and starts to picture the happily ever after she never believed in for herself.



What reviews have to say:

A NIGHT OWL REVIEWS BOOK REVIEW 4.5 Stars | Reviewed by: Millarda
I really liked this book and it is a keeper. It exhibits the dilemma of letting go of what you know and embracing the opportunity for love and happiness. It is very well written and constructed. The characters mature nicely throughout this book. You can easily visualize what you are reading.
The dialogue is easy to understand. There is a lot of tension and conflict between Lucas and Amy. Lucas’ father wanted his son to find happiness and love. Lucas wasn’t ready for any type of change in his life. Lucas liked living with no attachments and wanted to keep it that way, little did he know his father already had other plans. He knew he wanted grandchildren while he could still play with them. If that was going to happen he had to do something.


Amazon

Monday, November 12, 2012

Interview with Dylan and Callie from The Teacher's Billionaire



Just as expected Dylan knocked on my front door at exactly 4:00.  Dressed in a dark gray suit with a crisp white shirt and red tie he is just a swoon worthy as you might think.  Callie actually arrived earlier today.

Me: Thank you so much for stopping in today.  I know you're very busy.

Dylan: We are never to busy for you. (I do so love his English accent)

Me: Some people find your family dynamics odd.  And I know you probably get this question all the time, but could you explain them to any of my readers who don't already know your story?

Dylan:  That one is all yours, sweetheart.

Callie: (gives him a slap on the shoulder) Yes, a lot of people have asked us that one.  Dylan's mother married Warren after her divorce.  At the time Warren didn't know anything about me.  Warren and Elizabeth have two children, Jake and Sara who are half siblings to both of us.  However, Dylan and I are not anymore related than any other married couple.

Me: Thanks for the clarification.  Now, we all know how you meet.  But I think readers might like to learn a little more about each of you.  Can you tell us something that my readers don't know? 

Dylan: (He loosens his tie first) I have a 17 year old half-brother in England.  My father remarried about 20 years ago. 

Me: Are you two close?

Dylan: Not like I am with Jake.  My relationship with Andrew is almost like an uncle-nephew relationship because of the age difference and the distance between us.

Me: What about you, Callie?

Callie: I know how to play the drums.  Started lessons when I was 10 and then played in the school band.

Me: I don't about my readers, but I have always been curious, Dylan.  Who do you think had more of an influence on your life, you biological father or your step-father Warren?

Dylan:  Pulling out the tough questions today. (He gives me a God worthy smile)  I'd have to say Warren.  My father and I are close, but our personalities are very different.  He obtained his PhD in English Literature.  His eyes glaze over at the mention of a financial report or the Stock Exchange.

Me: I know that you're a workaholic.  How do you keep this from hurting your relationship with Callie?

Dylan: I'm better than I was about that, but I still work more than Callie would like. (Callie nods in agreement.) So  I make sure I'm home for dinner at least twice a week and then once a month we have an official date night.

Me: Callie, I know that you and Sara didn't get along at first.  Do you have a good relationship now?

Callie: We don't see each other much.  She lives in D.C. now.  But it's okay.  I think it will improve though.

Me: Last question before you guys leave.  Do you plan on having any children?

Callie: Definitely.

Dylan:  Yes.  We decided to spend a little time alone together as a married couple before having children, but it will happen.

Me:  Thanks so much for stopping by today.  I'm sure we'll see you again soon.

Callie:  Anytime.  Just call.



Amazon
 NOOK
 
 







Thursday, November 8, 2012

Romance Novels With Or With Out The Wedding?




This Saturday my husband and I are celebrating our 11 year wedding anniversary. Yes, the picture above is from my wedding back in 2001. With this date upon me, I started to think about weddings and romance novels. Do readers like to see their characters get married? Does it depend on the type of romance novel? I will admit often I like to see my favorite characters either get married or at least get engaged. Sometimes though it does depend on the type of romance book as to when I want this to happen. Often in a historical I like to see the characters get married during the actual novel itself. In a contemporary romance I am satisfied to see them either get engaged or married in the Epilogue. As for paranormal romances, either way works for me.


What about you? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Feature of the Day: Historical Romance Author Beth Trissel


 
Logan McCutcheon returns to colonial Virginia after seven years in the hands of Shawnee Indians. But was he really a captive, as everybody thinks? He looks and fights like a warrior, and seems eager to return to those he calls friends and family.

Kira McClure has waited for Logan all those years, passing herself off as odd to keep suitors at bay––and anyone else from getting too close. Now that he's back, he seems to be the only person capable of protecting her from the advances of Josiah Campbell and accusations of witchcraft. And to defend the settlers against a well-organized band of murderous thieves.

Excerpt:



Head tilted to one side, he appraised her with a keen eye, approval in his gaze. “The years between us don’t seem to make such a difference now, do they?”
 
A shiver darted through her. “Not like they once did.”
 
He ran his fingers lightly over her cheek. “I’ll have to make amends for my past neglect.”
 
Her chest thudded wildly. “Will you?”
 
Oh, yes.”

As though she’d issued an invitation, Logan slid closer to her so they were pressed thigh to thigh, nearer than she’d sat to any man. He turned, circling an arm around her waist, and drew her into his hard chest. His low voice a shivery whisper in her ear, he said, “This’ll do for a start.”
 
Too stunned to speak, she wondered if her galloping heart might give out altogether. This must be a dream. He couldn’t be real. Yet he felt wonderfully solid and smelled of the sun-warmed earth mingled with his own appealing essence, heightening her acute awareness of him. But he was overtaking her with the sudden fury of a gale.

She found her tongue. “I hardly know what to think.”
 
He didn’t loosen his grip. “Don’t think just yet.”
 
Historical Romance novel Kira, Daughter of the Moon is available in print and eBook from:
 

About the Author

 
 
 
Married to my high school sweetheart, I live on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia surrounded by my children, grandbabies, and assorted animals. An avid gardener, my love of herbs and heirloom plants figures into my work. The rich history of Virginia, the Native Americans and the people who journeyed here from far beyond her borders are at the heart of my inspiration. In addition to American settings, I also write historical and time travel romances set in the British Isles.
 
Catch up with Beth at :
 
Leave Beth a Comment
 
She will award a digital copy of "Through the Fire" to one commenter, a digital copy of "Red Bird's Song" to one commenter and a grand prize of a $25 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour.  Be sure to leave an email address.
 
 
 

Monday, November 5, 2012

Bond, James Bond

Many of you may know that the new James Bond movie comes out this Friday.  My husband is a huge Bond fan.  He has seen all the movies and read all of  the original books, which mean I have seen all the movies and read a few or the books.  The two of us will most likely go to the movie on Friday and that got me thinking.  In many respects James Bond is the ultimate romance Alpha Hero.  BUT I don't think he makes the grade, at least in terms of a romance.  Yes, he is physically strong, smart, handsome, the type of man other guys want to be like.  His big flaw though, at least I think, is that he never gives his heart to any woman.  Okay, serious fan may say that he did get married once in On Her Majesty's Secret Service and he did fall in love in Casino Royale, but for the most part he never trusts his heart to anyone.  In order to be a true romance Alpha Male I think this must happen. 

What are your thoughts on the subject?  Would James Bond make a good hero in a Romance Novel?

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Some Winter Magic With Debut Author Cynthia Gail




When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Three years ago, my husband was working the early morning shift and always went to bed by eight o’clock. I would stay up reading or watching TV. Then one morning I woke up with a storyline in my head. I was intrigued, but didn’t give it much thought. Then I woke up a second morning with the same storyline—this time it was longer.

Eventually, the story grew into a full chapter. So, I decided to write it down.


How long does it take you to write a book?

I have a full time day job, so most of my writing occurs on the weekends and can take me 3-4 months to finish the first draft of a book. Last year during NaNoWriMo, I dedicated as many weekday evenings to writing as I could and finished about 75% of a book. My long-term goal is to write full-time and I think I could finish and edit a full book in about a month.


What would your readers be surprised to hear about you?

Everyone I know was surprised that I’d written a book. English was a subject I never liked growing up. I was always a math and science girl, I’ve never considered myself creative, and my day job is a retail analyst. That’s miles away from being a romance writer.

But I love to read. A Lot. And for me, writing became a natural progression.


What do you think is the best way of publishing a book these days?

The digital era has given authors so many options that didn’t exist before. I think everyone has to make their own decisions based on individual goals, resources, and abilities. In my opinion, it’s less about ‘how’ an author publishes and more about making sure ‘what’ they publish is good writing. I think that’s why you, and other authors who chose to self-publish, have been so successful. You wrote a good book to start with, had it professionally edited, invested in quality cover art. One book might sell well if it’s priced right, but when the second book sells even stronger, you know the author is producing quality writing.

I personally liked having a publisher for my first book. I didn’t have the confidence to self-publish and I wanted confirmation that my work was good enough. I’ve learned so much through the process that I personally feel made my writing even stronger. I plan to publish the full series with Soul Mate Publishing. Following that, I will probably try my hand at self-publishing with my current work-in-progress, a stand-alone title called Sweet Tooth.


What are some ways that you like to relax?

Girly stuff. On special occasions, I love to get a facial, a pedicure, and have my hair and nails done. I can always find time for a good book. Our neighbors have a boat they keep on Old Hickory Lake and we find ourselves regular guests on Sunday afternoons. I’m a ‘people person’ and like to entertain, grill, and relax with friends on the patio.


How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Winter’s Magic is my first published book. Spring’s Surprise, Summer’s Family Affair and Fall’s Redeeming Grace will follow in 2013, finishing out the Music City Hearts series. Then, I have the partial manuscript, Sweet Tooth I hope to jump back into next summer.

Can you tell me and your readers something about your main characters?

Beth Sergeant is probably my favorite heroine in the series. Her parents were middle-class, but found a way to send her to the most prestigious, private high school in Nashville, Tennessee. While the invaluable experience prepared her for college, she never felt as if she fit in.

After losing his parents to a car accident at a young age, Nick Chester was raised by his grandfather, the wealthiest man in Nashville. At the age of thirty, he’s built his own business and experienced enough of life to realize everyone has an agenda.

Beth can’t resist Nick’s charm and accepts an invitation to dinner, despite her deep-seated insecurities. She proves she’s nothing like other women Nick's dated and learns to trust him in return. But just as the last of their resistance crumbles and true love is within reach, challenges from Nick's past threaten to destroy everything and force Beth to reveal her most guarded secret.


Can you tell us something about your book that would make me run out and buy it?

Winter’s Magic is a fun, fast read. There are parts that will make you laugh, while others make your heart squeeze. A few surprises. Steamy love scenes. It’s the perfect book to grab a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and curl up with during the holiday season.
 
Cynthia would love to hear from you.
 
Do You Want To Learn More About Winter's Magic?
 
Excerpt:
 
 “You’re not leaving without saying goodbye are you?”
 
Her breath caught at the sound of Nick’s voice. “I didn’t want to interrupt.”
 
“I forgot how demanding playing host can be,” he said. “Every time I thought I was getting closer to your crowd I got sucked back into another one.” His voice softened into a low caress. “I was hoping to talk to you before you left.”
 
“I’m not in any hurry.” Wrong. She was in a hurry. In fact, she should be running–as fast as she could.
 
“Come with me.” Nick turned and led her back toward the front of the house, to a room not open to guests. Stepping inside, she realized it was his grandfather’s study. She took her time admiring the room, trying to steady her pulse.
 
A large mahogany desk sat at the near side of the room with a black leather couch and matching wing chairs facing it. On the far side of the study was a small conference table. The sound of a grandfather clock filled the air with twelve deep chimes.
 
“I wanted to talk to you about midnight mass.” Nick motioned for her to sit on the couch. “Let me explain.”
 
Beth sat, though she preferred to end the discussion where it was. She could tell from his awkward stance, he didn’t want to have this conversation any more than she did.
 
She had been right about him-he was just being nice. Nick may have checked out her legs and caught her eye a few times, but it didn’t mean anything. And he seemed tired. Still incredibly sexy, but his eyes held exhaustion.
 
She should give him a break and make this easy. “I understand, Nick. Christmas Eve mass is really a family affair. Your grandfather may want it to be just the two of you.”
 
“No,” he paused. “I’m sorry, that’s not what I meant.”
 
“It’s okay. You were just being nice. It’s really no big deal.”
 
“Beth.” He met her eyes with a commanding gaze that refused to let her shy away. “Would you go to dinner with me tomorrow night?”
 
Wow. That wasn’t what she expected. Dinner? Translation–real date? It took a moment to sink in. But when it did, she couldn’t stop her mind from funneling through the numerous events already scrambling her weekend.
 
Beth caught herself. What was she thinking?
 
“I can’t. I’m sorry, it’s just really busy at the salon right now.” And it was. Even if Nick wasn’t off limits and completely the wrong man for her, she was too busy to even think about starting a new relationship.
 
“I’ve been wanting to try Carlino’s. Have you been yet?” he asked, as if she hadn’t just said no.
 
“I called to get a reservation last week and they’re booked through the holidays.”
 
“I’ve heard the same thing. But what if I can get one? Would you join me?”
 
“I really can’t.” She saw disappointment flash across his face before he could replace it with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “We’re having our staff Christmas party.” The gleam was instantly back. It shouldn’t matter as much as it did.
 
“How about Sunday? I happen to know La Bella Vita isn’t open on Sundays. Let me see what I can do. I’ll call you tomorrow and let you know what time I’ll pick you up.”
 
She chuckled. “I didn’t say yes.” But she wanted to, even if it went against every sensible conviction in her brain.
 
“You didn’t say no,” he whispered.
 
“I guess I didn’t.” His stare burned through the last of her fortitude and suddenly, she wasn’t sure if turning him down had ever been possible.
 
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