Showing posts with label author interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label author interview. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Interview With Author M.S. Kaye and an Excerpt From Her Novel Once


Joining me today is author M.S. Kaye, so check out her interview and then read on about her book Once.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?  
I was watching an interview of an author, and described how she came up with the idea for her book, and BAM, I realized I had a story in my head, one that’d been simmering for years. I wrote half the night, and I’ve written every day since.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? 
Ah, there are so many.
What do you think is the best way of publishing a book these days?  
Whatever way that gets it into reader hands.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?  
9 The first one, which will be published by Wild Child Press in the coming months, will always hold a special place in my heart.
Who are you favorite authors to read? 
Charlotte Bronte!

Now lets check out Once by M.S. Kaye


Her first and also her Once.
 Jonathan is studying to become a priest. He is three days from taking vows. He will not be a priest.
 Rebecca’s major is pre-law. She is supposed to take over her father’s law firm. She will not be lawyer.
Their paths cross at exactly the right moment, when each most needs to hear what the other has to say. Jonathan’s structured life is turned sideways, but Rebecca also helps him learn how to forgive himself. It was self-defense, not murder.
Rebecca finds the strength to stand up to her father, to be the real her. If Jonathan likes her writing, it must be worth pursuing.
They must each struggle to forge a new path without each other’s comfort and strength, with only memories of the one day that changed everything.

Excerpt

“What’s the answer?”
He paused. “A switchblade.”
With my fingertips, I reached out and traced the scar across his cheek. “Did you win?”
He removed my hand and closed his eyes. “Yes.”
I slid his Book back to him. “This says we can find forgiveness.”
His eyes still closed, his jaw clenched. He bowed his head. “It also says ‘Thou shalt not kill.’”
I took his hand in both of mine, petted his rough skin, and then brought it to my lips. He had a talent for guiding invisibly, but I didn’t know how to do that.
He watched me again. His eyes were intense, like the black of the night sky, and his forehead was furrowed, as if his emotions were scattered, as if he was shocked at my reaction, as if he had been sure his answer would drive me away. But I knew him. Already, I knew him.
“You’re still a good person,” I said.
His jaw clenched. “I’ve been trying to believe that.”
“I have faith in you.”
He continued to watch me. His forehead never smoothed, as if he was fighting for strength, but his eyes softened. He slid around the booth, closer to me.
I didn’t move, not sure what to do, what was right, what he wanted.
He leaned closer.
I only watched him.
He touched his lips to my cheek, the faintest pressure. I struggled to sit still, to keep my hands in my lap, not to grab hold of him. And then his lips were gone, such brief contact that I couldn’t be sure if he had actually kissed my cheek or if I wanted his contact so much that I imagined it.
He spoke in my ear. “You must be some kind of final test.”
My heart pounded into my ribs, against the point of the blade. “Are you going to pass?”
His lips brushed against my jaw. “I don’t know.”
He trailed to my neck, his mouth softly pressing. My hand curled into his hair, the other on his shoulder, holding, clutching. His mouth found mine, barely touching. His warmth invaded my head.
“God give me strength,” he murmured.
The door slid open, and the compartment filled with laughter.
He closed his eyes. Then he slid away from me.

Where To Purchase


More About The Author



M. S. Kaye is a 4th degree black belt and certified instructor of Songahm Taekwondo. A transplant from Ohio, she resides with her husband Corey in Jacksonville, FL, where she does her best not to melt in the sun.
Contact M. S. Kaye at: 
Twitter: @mskosciuszko
Also available from M.S. Kaye:
Fight Princess: Caught in an investigation of a mysterious murder, a female underground fighter from a high society family learns how to accept love.
iBooks - http://bit.ly/17Asczv
Barnes & Noble - http://bit.ly/1abP1LC
Liquid Silver Books (publisher – all formats) - http://bit.ly/172SszA



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Sunday, February 16, 2014

Interview With Author Caroline Clemmons


Joining us today is author Caroline Clemmons.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I learned Roy Rogers had married Dale Evans instead of waiting for me to grow up. ☺ Actually, when I started reading books on my own, which is about the same time. I was fascinated that so many different stories existed. I wanted to tell mine.  

How long does it take you to write a book?  
Three months to four—unless our family moves. We moved over the summer and that played havoc with my schedule by adding two months to my last nook. 

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? 
I see my characters in my head like a movie. What I see first is usually the inciting incident, but not always. Sometimes the first movie ends up about chapter three.

What do you think is the best way of publishing a book these days?
Self-publishing gives authors the power they lack with NY traditional publishers. The freedom to write what, when, and as fast or slow as we wish is a wonderful feeling. We are in control of our destiny—well, except for who buys our books. Even though I have a schedule, it is a self-imposed one and I have the power to change it.   

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? 
When I first began writing, I was afraid I’d run out of ideas and kept a notebook of story ideas in case I couldn’t think of something next time. Now I realize I’ll have to live to be 200 to write all the stories in my head and more come every day. They pop in my mind after reading a non-fiction article, hearing the news, or conversing with friends. They won’t stop! (Keeping my fingers crossed they never do.)

When did you write your first book?  
My first book, BE MY GUEST, was published in 1998. I was not happy with it, and later revised it when the rights came back to me. Even so, it made me a published author, and for that I’m grateful.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?  
Visit with family and friends, read, work on genealogy, travel, and goof off. I’m an expert at goofing off—possible Olympic material.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? 
That I can do it! I was so pleased that when I finished one, I had another project lined up. It’s exciting to start a new book, but also frightening. Can I do it again? Will this one be as good as the last? How can I make it better?

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?  
I’ve written seventeen titles that reached publication. My favorite is always the one on which I’m working—although I do admit a particular fondness for the first of the Kincaid books. 

Can you tell me and your readers something about your main characters? 
Attorney Gabe Kincaid hates liars with good reason. Working as a carnival fortune teller, Katie Worthington is on the run from influential killers and spins yarn after yarn to keep those in Kincaid Springs from knowing her true identity. 

Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?  
I love hearing from readers. Usually, they ask for another book in either the Kincaid series or the Men of Stone Mountain series. 

What do you think makes a good story? What are your favorite book genres in writing and reading? Why?
Strong characters make a good story. If readers don’t care about the characters, they won’t enjoy the book.
My favorite genre to write is western historical romance. I also write mystery, contemporary western romance and time travel. I love history, especially Texas history of the 1870-1890 time period.
For reading, I like western, funny contemporary and Regency romances. Quite a difference, but I do love those wonderful Regency writers like Loretta Chase and Amanda Quick. I also read cozies and enjoy authors like Susan Elia Macneal, Rhys Bowen, and Alice Duncan. I also enjoy mysteries like those of Robert B. Parker, Earl Staggs, Agatha Christie, Dorothy L Sayers, and Marjorie Allingham.  


Amazon
Smashwords

More About The Author

Caroline Clemmons is an Amazon bestselling author of historical and contemporary western romances whose books have garnered numerous awards. Her latest release is THE MOST UNSUITABLE COURTSHIP, book three of her popular Kincaid series. A frequent speaker at conferences and seminars, she has taught workshops on characterization, point of view, and layering a novel. 
Caroline is a member of Romance Writers of America, Yellow Rose Romance Writers, From The Heart Romance Writers, and Hearts Through History Romance Writers. Her latest publications include the acclaimed historical Men of Stone Mountain series: BRAZOS BRIDE, HIGH STAKES BRIDE, and BLUEBONNET BRIDE and the audio book of BRAZOS BRIDE. 
Caroline and her husband live in the heart of Texas cowboy country with their menagerie of rescued pets—Shih Tzu Webster, huge tuxedo cat Sebastian, and small Manx kitten Max. Prior to writing full time, her jobs included stay-at-home mom (her favorite), secretary, newspaper reporter and featured columnist, assistant to the managing editor of a psychology journal, bookkeeper for the local tax assessor and—for a short and fun but unsuccessful time—an  antique dealer. When she’s not indulging her passion for writing, Caroline enjoys reading, travel, antiquing, genealogy, painting, getting together with friends, and enjoying watching the birds, butterflies, and squirrels wandering through her back yard.  Find her on her blog, website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Pinterest.


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Saturday, February 8, 2014

Interview and Excerpt with author A.J. Locke


Please check out my interview with author A.J. Locke.

How long does it take you to write a book?  

It depends. If I’m really taken by an idea I can have a first draft out very quickly. I think my fastest was nine or ten days. But not every book I write is like that, sometimes it can take a month or more. It also depends on how busy I am in other aspects of my life and how much time I have to write.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? 

When I first started writing my quirk was that I only wrote at night. Nowadays I don’t really have a quirk; it’s just me on the couch with my laptop.

When did you write your first book?  

I wrote my first book when I was fourteen and it started on computer paper. Eventually I transferred to a notebook and finished the story. My first four books were actually handwritten and that was a choice!

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?  

When I’m not writing I enjoy reading, watching television, drawing, painting, and playing video games.

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

To date I’ve written seventeen books. I could never choose a favorite! They are all my favs, my early books especially have a special place with me because my journey as an author started with them.

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

Rielle is the female lead of Elemental Inferno and she’s a Winter Aura, which means she controls winter weather in a selected area. Aden, the male lead, is a Summer Aura. When it’s not their season, they have to stay in control of themselves or risk releasing their season at the wrong time of year. 

What do you think makes a good story? What are your favorite book genres in writing and reading? Why?

To me a good story is one that encompasses different elements and ties them all together. Mystery, action, romance, and well rounded, interesting characters will make for a great read. My favorite genre to write is Urban Fantasy and it’s also one of my favorite genres to read along with Paranormal Romance. I like to read fantasy and its different sub-genres in both YA and adult books. I love the supernatural and fantastical elements you get with fantasy; you can really take a story anywhere.


Author Links:



Links to other books:

My debut novel, Affairs of the Dead is available on:




Now lets take a look at A.J. Locke's novella. 




Rielle is a Winter Aura who for the past hundred years has held the job of controlling winter weather in her assigned area. During the non-winter months she can live as she pleases, as long as she doesn’t do anything that would make her lose control of herself, which could unleash her power and have it snowing in July. Therefore, sex outside of winter is a big no-no, because what could make her lose control of herself more? If Rielle is unable to keep her winter magic dormant during her off seasons, she will be forced to Sleep by the Aura Elders. For Auras, it’s a fate worse than death.

When the Summer Aura for her area winds up mysteriously dead, summer weather spirals out of control until another Summer Aura arrives in the nick of time and brings things back to order. Aden is as gorgeous and alluring as they come, and before Rielle knows it, she finds herself with a roommate at the urging of the Elders, who seem uneasy about Aden, and want an eye kept on him. Rielle and Aden have a magnetic attraction to each other, and for the first time Rielle is afraid of losing control. However, Aden is much more than he seems, and when he shows Rielle a way to indulge their passions without repercussions, it seems too good to be true. But Aden’s secrets are ones the Elders fear, and can’t ignore. As they close in on him with deadly force in mind, Rielle will have to decide if Aden is in fact too dangerous, or if it’s worth going up against the Elders to save the man she’s losing her body, and heart to.


Excerpt

I think most people would only accept a job where their sex life was dictated by what season it was if their life depended on it. Then again, they might choose to die and have as much sex as they could before then. When I had accepted the job almost a hundred years ago, the fine print hadn’t seemed like a big deal. Yeah, I’m old. Immortal if you wanted to get technical, but I only looked about twenty-five. And though my life had depended on taking the job back then, that didn’t make the rules any easier to accept.

Especially since today was the hottest fucking day. It was the kind of day where people threw around adjectives like wet, hot, and sticky, while skirt hems were tugged up and shirts were peeled off. I guess the idea was the more naked you got the less the heat would affect you. I’d finally given up trying to read in a corner of the Brooklyn Public Library, because the conversation a group of people were having at the table next to me was making my ears burn. And it wasn’t because I was a prude. It was because I wanted sex.

Usually I wasn’t so hard up, but the intense heat that had suddenly come across the city had brought this carnal rage to the surface, which was why I was standing in front of a calendar in my apartment calculating how long it would be until I could wrap myself around someone’s body. It was late June, winter was about five months away, and I last had sex three months ago. I braced one hand against the wall, dropped my head, and released a slow exhale, trying to quell the thrumming in my body that had been present since I had woken up to this heat wave three days ago. It was only the beginning of summer, damn it. Yesterday’s high had been a hundred and six, and today it was even hotter. 

I bet Bero had done this on purpose. That annoying asshole of a Summer Aura probably thought an early summer heat wave was just we needed. Wouldn’t be the first time he did something like this, but the Elders should have made him stop it. Over the past three days, dozens of people died or were incapacitated by the heat, especially children and the elderly. There were heat strokes galore, and crowded public pools. Hell, I had only high-tailed it to the library for their air conditioning. Mine was barely cooling my apartment down. I would have loved to use my winter magic to cool myself, but being out of my season meant I had to keep myself ridiculously in check, since a slip up could have it snowing in June, and the humans would think that signified the apocalypse. Here was where the ‘no sex until winter’ thing came in, because what could make a person lose control of themselves more than being in the throes of passion?





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Monday, February 3, 2014

Interview With Author Lauren Linwood


Joining me today is romance author Laura Linwood. Please sit back and enjoy her interview.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?  
Writing just seems innate to me—just something I was born wanting to do. Before I could put pen to paper, I made up stories and acted them out with my stuffed animals and dolls. After I learned to read and write, I loved scribbling stories and having my friends act them out. I became a teacher and thought I’d teach by day and write by night, but the job got in the way. Too many lesson plans to write and papers to grade (not to mention laundry and scrubbing tubs!). Finally, I made writing a priority and devoted quality time to it. That made all the difference.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? 
I rarely chew gum—unless I’m writing. Something about that process gets my creative juices flowing. The more intense the scene becomes, the harder and faster I chomp!
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? 
I think inspiration is everywhere. I write historical romances, so many times ideas come to me when I’m researching a particular era or event. The Internet has opened up so many avenues of research. I can visit museums online, read first-person accounts, and even scan photographs or paintings. I do a lot of thinking when I walk every morning, and many plot ideas have been dreamed up while I’m pounding the pavement. I’ve even had scathingly brilliant ideas come to me while in the shower. 
When did you write your first book?  
I wrote my first novel in college, most of it during the summer between my sophomore and junior years. The ending came to me first, so I wrote the last chapter before anything else. That manuscript is still sitting on the top shelf of my closet! I need to pull it down some day and read through it and see if it’s truly awful or better than I remember.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?  
Like most writers, I read voraciously in all kinds of genres. I also enjoy going to see movies or watching TV with my husband. I can’t seem to function unless I walk 4-5 miles first thing in the morning, and I also like to do yoga. I like to attend sporting events, and I’m active in my local women’s club, where my favorite group is Bookworms, my monthly book club. 
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
That I’m not always in control! I usually have a brief, general outline to get me started and keep me going, but many times my characters seem to take over my typing fingers and do things much differently than I planned. I didn’t know that could happen, but it’s been fun, exciting, and it helps keep things fresh.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?  
I’ve written several books. Music For My Soul and Outlaw Muse came out in 2013. A Game of Chance was just released in January, while A Change of Plans will be out this summer. I have a few more manuscripts I’m tightening and polishing before I pitch them to my editor . . . and I’ve always got a current work-in-progress going. As far as a favorite goes? That’s liking asking a mom to reveal her favorite child. My lips are sealed on that one!
Can you tell me and your readers something about your main characters? 
Jed Stone is a Civil War veteran and gambler who travels to California. He’s smart, charming, and has no idea that he was separated from his twin at birth. He’s arrested and set to hang for crimes his brother committed, all because he looks like the face on a wanted poster. He escapes before his execution and eventually meets his twin in San Francisco.
Lily Frontiere is a beautiful suffragette with a knack for accounting who happens to be the daughter of a madam who owns the most famous whorehouse in San Francisco. She had a governess and then went to boarding school back east, so she knows little to nothing about “house” life. When her dying mother gets into financial trouble, Lily must step up and try to salvage things.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?  
I’m just starting my career, so I haven’t gotten many emails. I do hear from readers through my Facebook page and Twitter accounts, though. They’ll comment on cartoons I put up, books I’ve mentioned reading, or pictures from places I’ve traveled. I think it’s terrific how social media has made it so accessible for readers and authors to talk and get to know one.
What do you think makes a good story? What are your favorite book genres in writing and reading? Why?
I think believable, relatable characters make for the best stories because I like to put myself in their shoes. Romance is what I love to write, but thrillers or anything involving history are my favorite genre to read. I like authors such as Steve Berry, Brad Meltzer, David Baldacci, Stephen King, Jacqueline Winspear, and Victoria Thompson—and that only scratches the surface! I think each of these authors have great characters, interesting plots, and do a wonderful job weaving history into their books.

Now a peak at her book A Game of Chance


Gambler Jed Stone journeys to California to track down Simon Morgan, the man responsible for his best friend’s death. Arrested for robbery and murder upon arrival, Jed is shocked to see his face on a wanted poster. He escapes before his hanging, unaware that the man guilty of those crimes is the twin brother he never knew existed. In a case of mistaken identity, Jed acquires the most famous whorehouse in San Francisco in a rigged card game his twin is meant to win.

Lily Frontiere takes over running Lucky Lil’s from her dying mother, the house madam who shielded her by sending her away to boarding school. Lily’s intelligence and astonishing resemblance to her mother help in her charade, but she’s entered a world she knows little about. She clashes with the handsome stranger who turns up with the deed to Lucky Lil’s in hand, yet she is attracted to the charming risk taker. 

Jed asks Madam Lil to stay on as he learns the business and is fooled by Lily’s performance until he stumbles upon the real Madam Lil and learns the truth behind Lily’s deception. His admiration for Lily blossoms into love.

But Simon Morgan seeks both Lily’s hand and ownership of Lucky Lil’s—and he will go to any means to possess both. Will Jed foil his nemesis while bringing his outlaw brother to justice and win Lily’s love?

Buy link for A GAME OF CHANCE:


Excerpt


The knock startled her, but not half as much as the man who grabbed her. He snaked his left arm around her waist. His right hand covered her mouth.
Lily struggled as he snapped her back close against him. Through her thin, silk wrapper she felt hard chest. Her hands, locked onto his forearm, touched tension coiled tightly around muscle. 
She heard Ben hollering, “Hold your horses.”
Instinctively, her gut told her the visitors below would be looking for this man.
He whispered the same into her ear, his mustache tickling as he asked, “Can you buy me some time?”
She nodded, not sure if she would or not. The stranger dropped his hand but still kept her next to him.
It surprised her when she said, “Follow me.”

More About The Author
As a child, Lauren Linwood gathered her neighborhood friends together and made up stories for them to act out, her first venture into creating memorable characters. Following her passion for history and love of learning, she became a teacher who began writing on the side to maintain her sanity in a sea of teenage hormones.
Lauren’s novels focus on two of her favorite eras, medieval times and the American Old West. History is the backdrop that places her characters in extraordinary circumstances, where their intense desire and yearning for one another grows into the deep, tender, treasured gift of love.
Lauren, a native Texan, lives in a Dallas suburb with her family. An avid reader, moviegoer, and sports fan, she manages stress by alternating yoga with five mile walks. She is thinking about starting a support group for Pinterest and House Hunters addicts.
My links:
My Amazon Books – Buy Links:






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Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Interview with Sassy Writer Vicki Batman


Joining me today is author Vicki Batman, so sit back enjoy the interview.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?  Once, I told Handsome I wished I could write like Dick Francis. But it wasn't until a friend said, "You can do this," that I took upon the challenge. After I sold a few stories, I finally felt like a writer. 
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I like sticky notes. I put notes to myself, reminders, whatever on them and line them up in front of my computer. When not needed, I rip off and toss. That part is fun.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? I love to do needlepoint, play mahjongg, Jazzercise, take long walks, hang on the couch with a good book, go to a movie with Handsome. 
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite? I've had 27 short stories published—I *think* that's right. One of my favs is one sold to the TRUE magazines entitled "Drive My Car." It's about a girl who takes driving lessons from the cop who wrote the ticket. Very funny. 
What do you think makes a good story? Upon opening to the first chapter, a reader should get hooked and want to finish the book/story. So a good hook. Then the characters must be intriguing enough to keep the story moving and continue to pull the reader along. Finally, a satisfying ending. 
What are your favorite book genres in writing and reading? I write sweet and sexy funny fiction. I read sweet, sexy, funny romances and mysteries. Why? I cut my teeth on the Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden. I've always liked mysteries and have one coming out in 2014. 
Who are you favorite authors to read? My all-time favorite author was Dick Francis. I read Janet Evanovich, Carl Hiassen, Elizabeth George, Sue Grafton, Sophie Kinsella.
You Can Find Vicki at:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vicki-Batman-sassy-writer-of-sexy-and-funny-fiction/133506590074451?ref=hl
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VickiBatman



Three short romantic comedies from sassy writer girl, Vicki Batman.
"Just Desserts": a political dinner gone disastrous brings together a reluctant attendee and her handsome seat-mate.
"Bug Stuff": A cute accountant unites with his co-worker to fight a pesky adversary.

"With This Ring": When a wife forgets her little black dress, all turns into something utterly romantic and unforgettable in the end. 

Find Bug Stuff…and other stories at: 
And other e-retailers.

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Monday, January 13, 2014

Interview with Sandra K. Marshall


Joining me today is romance author Sandra K. Marshall, so sit back and check out her interview.   Then check out her newest release.
Q.  When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?   
A. I wrote as soon as I started reading.  I wrote a skit in school, letters to friends, family and kids in the military, but I never thought of being a writer.  Not until my husband started bugging me to do something useful besides reading.  lol  Men!  He claimed that as much as I read I could write a book.  Humph!  He knew nothing, and I still tell him that.  lol
Q.  How long does it take you to write a book?  
A.  Usually, around a year.  I'm a slow writer.  
Q.  What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?  
A.  I can't stop editing, and I try to.  One day, I'll make myself write the first draft without editing.
Q.  What do you think is the best way of publishing a book these days? 
A.  I think the digital format is the fastest way to get your book out to the public.  I'm not sure it's the best way though. 
Q.  Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? 
A.  Usually, I get my ideas from the news either on television, or other media, and every day life.  
Q.  When did you write your first book? 
A.  I started my first book in 1988 and finished it in 1989.  It didn't get published.   
Q.  What do you like to do when you’re not writing? 
A.  I enjoy doing things with my hubby like riding his Suzuki Burgman 400 series motor scooter.  With the wind blowing in my face and around me it removes all of the cobwebs, and I can get back to writing. 
Q.  What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
A.  I learned one book could turn into two or three books.  lol
Q.  How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?  
A.  I have written three books and a novella, but I didn't get published until 2008 the first time.  I have a short story coming out in 2014.  The Riverboat Mysteries trilogies are my favorite.
Q.  Can you tell me and your readers something about your main characters?
A.  In the last book of my trilogy, The Deceived, the heroine, Melanie Dubois, has been lied to by many people and she has fallen in with a crowd that wants to destroy her family business.  She has hated her mother since a teenager and doesn't realize her mother loves her the most.  Mike Mercer is an F.B.I. agent who has watched this group for some time.  He has been in this series since it started, and he's very protective of Melanie.  
Q.  Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say? 
A.  Yes, I have heard from readers, and most of the time they want to know when the next book will be released.  Smile!  I have gotten very good reviews on my books so far.  
Q.  What do you think makes a good story? What are your favorite book genres in writing and reading? Why?
A.  The characters and their lives make a good story.  My favorite genre to write is romantic suspense, and I read everything.  I always like a lot of suspense in my stories.  
Q.  Who are you favorite authors to read? 
A.  This is a difficult question.  It would probably be easier to tell you the authors I don't like, and I would never do that because I know they worked hard on their stories, too.  

Want to learn more about Sandra or contact her? She can be found here:

Now that we know a little about Sandra let look at her newest book.

The games they play can lead them to love or ruin. 
 Melanie Dubois detests her family’s casino business. The way this addiction destroys people has her on a tear of magnificent proportions. Then again, this young lady has been put through a train wreck of her own design. She distrusts everybody except for the people who are determined to use Melanie as a poster-child for zealots. 
 Mike Mercer has spent nearly a year in a deep cover mission for the FBI. The one fly in the ointment of completing his objective to take down a group of dangerous anti-gambling zealots is a fiery-tempered, blonde-haired woman named Melanie DuBois. Worse than that, she’s got a passion brewing just beneath the surface that’s an even deadlier attraction. 
Fighting for your life is never easy when the odds are stacked against you.


Excerpt

Dressed for the day in pale blue sweats, Mel stood in the drab, dark kitchen of Janet Batten’s house and debated what to do. The growl of her stomach made the decision for her, she’d fix breakfast. She switched on the light over the sink, and reached into a lower cabinet for a couple of skillets. She poured olive oil in one pan and went to the freezer for sausage to put in the other one. Slowly, she drew ingredients from the refrigerator and placed them on the butcher block counter before she went to the pantry for potatoes and onions. 
     Early morning was her favorite part of the day, it was quiet and no one was around. 
     Why was she being left out of everything this group was doing? After being here for a month, she was still being treated like an outsider. It was almost like she was still at home. Why wouldn’t they let her help? She’d been picketing, but she knew there was more going on than just that. 
     Did they consider her a part of the establishment they were trying to destroy? True, she would inherit a portion of the Odyssey Casinos, but she didn’t want any part of the company. Why should she when her family treated her like a wicked stepchild? If that was the problem, she’d tell Janet that she would sell her part and use the money to help those who were addicted to gambling. 
     She didn’t want to belong to an industry that destroyed anyone, or their livelihoods. She’d led a privileged life on the backs of losers, living in a huge home, going to private schools and college because of them. 
     Thinking of the Odysseys’ always made her think of her family. Her relationship with them had been rocky for many years. Even so, she loved her sister, Jolene, and they’d been great friends when they were younger. After her sister was saved from the monster who’d kidnapped her, Mel had wanted to go see her, but didn’t want to risk being forced to leave this group by her mother and stepfather. 
     Absorbed in her thoughts, knife in hand chopping onions vigorously, she didn’t hear anyone come into the kitchen. A large shadow appeared on the wall in front of her, Mel swung around with the knife pointed at the person’s chest. 
     Recognizing Janet, her heart still pounding, she lowered the sharp edge. "You scared me to death."
   "I’m sorry I frightened you," Janet said, stepping back. "You must’ve been in deep thought because I said, ‘Good Morning’ when I first walked in." 
     "I was thinking about how I don’t feel included in your plans. It feels like home. I was always an outsider there, too."
     The older woman wrapped the younger one in her arms. 
"We didn’t mean to do that, Melanie. You should’ve told me sooner how you felt," Janet said, releasing her and gazing into the girl’s blue eyes. "We want you to feel wanted and comfortable in your new home."
      "Then why can’t I do something besides picket?" Janet probably thought she sounded like a big crybaby. She turned away to keep busy as she waited for the answer, she scrapped the ingredients from the cutting board into the skillet. 
     "It looks like you’re doing something besides picketing. Do you have enough for everyone?"
     Mel glanced at Janet and caught a smile on her face. "I’ve got enough for a small army, but you know I didn’t mean this." She poured in the scrambled eggs and put bread in the toaster. 
     Janet walked to the fridge drawing out butter and milk to place on the table. "After breakfast we’re having a meeting, and it would be helpful for you to tell your family’s story," and then casually asked, "Would you be willing to do that?"
     "Sure, I want to." That was an understatement; she couldn’t wait to tell everyone about the evils of gambling. Yeah, she’d gladly let them know what the casinos had done to her dad. Janet had promised her when she came here she would become involved with major activities and maybe this was the start. 
     Janet stopped beside her, caressing the top of Melanie’s head. "It’ll go a long way to help alleviate the others distrust of you."
     "Thanks for the opportunity to explain myself." So that’s the reason she hadn’t been able to get close to any of these people except Janet. Well hell, if that’s why they were ignoring her, she’d spell it out why she was here. 
     "I’ll let you know when I’m ready for you."
     "Thanks," Mel murmured, as she darted a glance at the salt and pepper-haired woman while Janet took silverware and plates to the long, scarred wooden table. "Why are you so nice to me?" 
     Janet walked to stand beside her. "I had a daughter about your age." She touched Melanie’s arm. "If she had lived, I would want her to be like you." 
     Mel leaned toward Janet. "I wish I’d had a mother who loved me." It would have been nice to have someone really care about her. She glanced past the woman as she heard people streaming into the kitchen. "We’d better hurry, here they come."
     The first person she saw was Al Slavery, who could miss that evil scarred face. It was all she could do to keep from flinching as he drew closer to her. Next came Dan dressed in his usual jeans and sweater with a swagger that would turn on most women. Several young stringy-haired women in sweats and a few older men followed behind him. 
     "Leave the juice on the counter along with the food. It won’t hurt them to help themselves today." Janet winked at her. 
     Mel smiled at Janet, saying, "Good idea." She swished the food from the skillets onto platters. 
     Janet winked at her and turned toward the people before they could sit at the table. "Come and get it before it gets cold." 
     The guys grabbed plates and rushed forward. Mel backed away from the counter so she wouldn’t be trampled in their attempt to get to the food. It would be a miracle if there was any left; she’d probably have to settle for a bowl of cereal. 
     "Hey, you guys leave some food for the rest of us," Janet barked, sounding like a drill sergeant. 
     Mel suppressed a grin, watching the men take smaller portions. She might get to eat some of her cooking after all. She flinched when Slavery purposely brushed against her scowling at him. 
      The man gave her the creeps. 
*****
     A couple of hours later, Melanie watched people gather in the living room from where she sat on the brown-striped couch. None of them came near her, even though she scooted to one end. They obviously preferred to sit in the orange and beige matching chairs or on the floor rather than next to her. The red and black flannel-shirted man she knew as George glared at her as he took his seat. 
     When Janet, her forehead slightly beaded with perspiration, walked into the room and stood in front of them, everyone stopped talking and expectant faces turned toward her. She stood in the middle of the huge family room, light glowing down on her, making her look like a prophet with her arms spread. 
     A hush settled over everyone, faces rose expectantly as though waiting to hear from their savior. Well, she was in a way since the woman had taken them in after they’d lost everything to gaming. It was amazing how these vacant-faces lit up when Janet spoke. 
     "Let’s pray for the salvation of those we are trying to save from the wickedness of gambling." Janet bowed her head. "‚Dear God, bless our crusade to save poor souls from the hell holes of iniquity. Watch over us tonight and keep us safe as we picket before the Odyssey, and help us reach the spirit of those who have lost their way. Amen." She raised her head, asking, "Are you ready soldiers?" 
     People jumped to their feet, waving their hands and yelling, "Yes. Yes, we are." 
     "We’ll do anything you ask of us," George, a ruddy-faced man, said. 
     Smiling, she stuck her hands palm down in front of her and waved them up and down. "Calm down, children." When everyone sat, she nodded at Melanie. "Many of you have wondered why Melanie is here, since she’s part of the industry we’re against, so today we’re going to give her a chance to explain."
     Mel stood and walked to stand beside Janet. The woman put her arms around her shoulders, whispering, "Your story will rouse them even more." 
     Mel smiled up at the maternal gray-haired woman. "Thanks for allowing me to join this wonderful group. I do want to help, and I’m willing to do anything." She took a deep breath, gazing into their faces as she rubbed her moist palms down her sweat pants. How could she make these people believe she belonged here with them? 
     "Humph. Seeing is believin’," George said from his seat on the couch. 
     "It’s okay, go ahead. There won’t be any more interruptions," Janet said, frowning at the man. 
     "I don’t blame him for not believing me." She clenched her hands and lowered her chin to her chest. "I’m ashamed to admit my family owns the Odyssey Casinos.‛ 
     "I know you don’t like what your casino and others are doing to our families here in the Mid-West any more than the rest of us." Janet hugged Melanie, releasing her a moment later. "Why don’t you explain what gambling did to your family."
     Her chest swelled as she inhaled, then exhaled and moved her hands nervously as she gripped them in front of her. "My father was addicted to gambling, and it killed him." Not able to stand still, she paced in front of the people, no longer seeing them. She clenched and unclenched her fingers. "My father became indebted to loan sharks, and in order to pay them off, he became involved in a scheme to sell the Odysseys to the Moneymaker Casino, a company involved in money laundering."
     Damn. Double damn. Why did he do it? She bit her lower lip to keep them from trembling as she talked about the man she’d loved. "His partner didn’t trust him and, believing Daddy was double crossing him, killed him." Coming to a stop in front of them, with her head high, she added heatedly, "My father would be alive today if it weren’t for gambling. I intend to close every single one of them." She’d make the casinos pay for what they did to her father. 
     Loud clapping followed her last statement. 
"That is so sad, Melanie. You may not have lost your home like the others here, but your loss was something far more precious.‛ Janet touched the younger woman’s arm. ‚Do you have more to add?‛ 
     Get a grip, Mel. Don’t fall apart now. Gaining control of her emotions, she said, "Yes, I do." Forgive me, Sis, for what I’m about to say about you."One addiction leads to another, my dad and my sister were both addicted to gambling, smoking and alcohol. My sister was able to break the drinking habit recently by going through rehab."
     "Oh sure, she has. How long has she been off alcohol?" George asked, in a scoffing tone. 
     Mel gazed at the older, red-faced man. She knew he’d lost his home, his wife and his job because of gambling, but she didn’t think that was his only problem. There’d been a time or two she’d caught him taking a swig from a wine bottle he’d stashed in different spots around the house. Once, she’d even caught him digging one out of the snow. 
     He’s definitely an alcoholic. Only Jolene had conquered her demons and George was still battling his. Janet had to know he was drinking. Mel couldn’t understand why the woman allowed him to continue to stay in her home. 
     "Only about six months, but she goes to her AA meetings regularly." She hoped Jolene was still sticking to the program, but Mel didn’t really know. 
     "Oh, she’ll fall off the wagon," George sneered. "They all do."
     Had the man tried to quit drinking and failed? "My sister will be one of those who’ll have the strength to stay off alcohol," she said, glaring at the man. Jolene better not start again. She’d brain her if she didn’t stay with the program. She and her sister had their problems, but Mel still wanted Jolene to be happy. The damn men Joley got involved with used her because she was desperate for love. 
     The pinch on her arm halted her speech. Obviously, Janet wanted her to stick to the topic of gambling. 
     She glanced up at the woman, saying, "I’m sorry I strayed from the topic." 
     "Well, it’s true that people light up and drink when they gamble, but it’s a problem that can be addressed another day. Thank you for telling your reasons for being here, Melanie." Janet patted Melanie’s shoulder, giving her a little shove. "It’s time for everyone to get their clothes ready for tonight. It’s going to be extremely cold with the wind blowing and snow expected any time so put on your warmest clothes." 
     Oh shit, why couldn’t they wait for summer to picket? She hated winter. Walking away from Janet, she decided she’d better make sure her long underwear was clean, or she would freeze her ass off tonight. 
     When she reached the stairs, she glanced back and noticed Al, the man she’d nicknamed Scarface because of the long scar on one side of his face, in a huddle with Janet and Dan. What’s up? 


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