Sunday Chat With Rescued’s Amelia

The fire that burned whenever they were together was consuming. Try as they might they could not douse the flames. Amelia was lost from the moment she laid eyes on Jordan Bradford. Besides the fact she was just the maid, there were far too many reason besides the obvious that they could not be together. Still she found herself throwing caution to the wind and knew she would pay whatever the cost for the chance at one more kiss. Forbidden fruit was always sweeter. The saying rang true for Jordan and a flame long thought extinguished was awakened inside him whenever Amelia was near. Time and again he sought her out against his better judgment and his hardened hearts wishes. Denying his desire for her was no longer becoming an option.

Rescued is available from the following retailers:

Barnes & Noble http://bit.ly/Opp0dL

Amazon http://amzn.to/NRmgHA

Vallory: Amelia, I am so happy you could join us today. I was hoping that you would tell our audience a little about yourself.

Amelia: Forgive me I feel a little nervous but let’s see. I’m originally from Louisiana, but now I’m a resident of London.  I’m still adjusting to the move. I can be a little shy but I stand up for those I love and would do anything for them. I don’t know what else to say besides I am a simple woman who is living an extraordinary life.

Vallory: And what of your friends? Who are those that make the time pass more easily?

Amelia: There is nothing like a true friend is there? Jordan is my best friend but my circle luckily has grown as of late, being away from my home town I keep in touch with old and dear friends by letters. Vivian who is the closest thing I’ve known to a mother moved to stay with me just this past summer. It’s been so nice having her around again she brought a slice of home with her it feels. Then there is my childhood friend Jessie, she just got married and her sister Lenora, I think she will marry next. I’m excited because Nina, another friend I’ve not seen in a while is traveling to visit me. She should arrive in a few weeks! Here though, in London, I have Margaret and she is a wonder. Margaret can’t seem to sit still for a second but even though she’s got her hand in every jar you just love her because her intentions are always good and she is so very kind. Then there is Johanna, she just makes me laugh and her daughter and our Georgia get along splendidly. Lastly there is Alice and you’ve never seen anyone so smart, I just wish she’d be smart enough to snatch up Nathan and out of all of us ladies I think she and I are most alike. Oh wait but I forgot, you asked who are those that make the time pass more easily as well, that one is easy, but these two young ladies are family, my Jordana and Georgia make everyday end with a smile and when I look at them I know everything is worth it.

Vallory: Louisiana is famous for its cuisine. Do you cook? What is the best dish you make?

Amelia: I have to agree with you there and being from New Orleans I’d say I’ve got a certain flair or fire might be a better word for my style of cooking. My best dish is my peach cobbler however, Jasper and Margaret eat it as soon as I pull it from the fire. I recall my aunt Lorraine use to have an affinity for it as well, perhaps she’s managed to learn to cook it for herself. (Grins)

Vallory: Louisiana is also famous for music. Do you dance?

Amelia: (Smiles to herself.) Now I do.

Vallory: When we meet you, you are engaged to Morgan Hanson. Can you tell us a little about him?

Amelia: Morgan is a nasty old snap dragon, I can’t think of anything redeeming about the man at all. So I guess there is nothing else to tell.

Vallory: I seem to remember that Morgan’s attempts at kissing weren’t received well by you. Has your attitude toward kissing changed?

Amelia: Now you are making me blush, but yes it has changed. In truth it’s become a favorite activity of mine.

Vallory: Hmmm, that brings us to Jordan Bradford. Can you remember your first thought of him?

Amelia: Now I know your trying to make me blush. (Sighs) The first thing I thought when I saw Jordan as I recall, was thinking there is nobody in this world more perfect than this man.

Vallory: Hmmm, and do you mind so much kissing him?

Amelia: (Laughs) Not to be crass, but I can kiss that man all morning, noon and night! So no ma’am I don’t mind kissing him one bit.

Vallory: Amelia, it was wonderful having you join us today. Thanks to Arlene Lam, author of Rescued (Flowers of the Bayou), for allowing us to meet Amelia and learn a little about her story.

About the Author: Born and raised in Northern California, Arlene has always dreamed of being a writer. As a child she jotted down short stories, poems and novellas in her spare time. A mother of one Arlene is married and currently resides in Hayward California where she is currently working on the follow up to Rescued featuring Margaret and Jasper.

To connect with Arlene online:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PerfectFairytales

Twitter: https://twitter.com/arlenet125

Blog: http://iliveromance.blogspot.com/

Website: http://www.arlenelam.com/#!home/mainPage

Second Chances

During the past few weeks, I’ve been privy to stories about second chances.

A few years ago, my friend’s parents went through a nasty divorce after 30 plus years of marriage. The family was devastated and polarized after this event, even though all the kids were married and had children of their own. Well, I’ll be attending the divorced couple’s second wedding this winter. They’ve grown and changed over the last four years and tell everyone that this is their first marriage to each other and this one is going to last.

Next spring, I’ll be attending the wedding of one my husband’s best friends to the woman he took to his senior prom more than 20 years ago. Life intervened, but their story wasn’t  finished after high school. They now get their happily ever after.

I know I’m sappy, but stories like these always make me smile. 

To this day, one of favorite second chance romances is Scenes From The Heart. This was a Harlequin Romance and I can’t remember the author. It had to be published in the late 80’s. If anyone knows how to find this book, please tell me!

The Love Dreams of Sienna Alexander

Today’s Sunday Chat is hosted by Victoria (January) Valentine.

About Victoria (January) Valentine:

January Valentine is the pen name of Victoria Valentine, New York writer and Indie Book Publisher. Several small international presses have published her fiction and poetry. She has self published  a poetry collection, a horror collection, a children’s storybook, and has completed an inspirational romantic short story & poetry collection which is awaiting publication. Love Dreams contemporary romance novel was released in February 2012. Victoria is currently completing Sweet Dreams, a novel about a serial killer, to be released in September 2012. She has written song lyrics and produced a rock CD. Victoria designs and formats her own books, and annual anthologies which contain the stories and poetry of other writers.

Sienna Alexander is a young woman who has suffered through an ordeal no woman should ever have to face. In the past a victim, she is now a survivor. Today, we’ll hear her story.

VV: Hello, Sienna. Please tell us a something about yourself.

SA: Hi, Victoria. First, I’d like to thank you for doing this interview. Having the opportunity to talk to others has helped me through one of the darkest times of my life.

A bit about myself … where to start …  I’m twenty-eight. I was born and raised in Ontario by two wonderful women: my mother and aunt. My dad passed away when I was a small child, but I remember the patient, loving man he was. Unfortunately, the next man in my life was not as kind and gentle.

VV: You suffered emotional and physical abuse at the hands of someone you trusted. Are you comfortable sharing this terrifying experience with our readers?

SA: At times I feel I’m still working my way through fear, and perhaps a small part of me always will, but yes, I can share some of the details. I knew of Rob Lucas in high school, but we didn’t connect until college. We dated occasionally, and he showed no signs of violence. In fact, he appeared to be a perfect gentleman, thoughtful and kind. Despite his almost perfect persona, I wanted nothing more than a casual relationship and made it clear that I was not ready to be serious with anyone. My sights were set on a career in business administration, and I couldn’t let anything interfere with my future plans.

VV: How did Rob feel about this?

SA: He appeared to be okay with it, although at times he expressed the desire for more intimacy than I could offer. Mid semester of my first year at college, my grades were not as high as I would have liked them to be, so I threw myself into my work. That’s when problems began to surface. Rob resented the fact that I had less time to spend with him. He seemed edgy, easily agitated. That’s when the controlling began, and arguments erupted. As time went on, the altercations escalated until …

VV:  Is that when you attempted to end the relationship?

SA: No. Not at that point. I tried to reason with him, which was futile. I felt sorry for him. He had no one close he could turn to, or so he said. He started drinking heavily, and using drugs. I supported him through legal problems and rehab programs, but nothing helped. The outbursts continued. I knew I had to get away from him.

VV: What happened when you finally told Rob he would no longer be a part of your life?

SA: He exploded and put his fist through the window of his pickup. Then he apologized, but went through phases where he’d act repentant, then turn violent when I told him there was no turning back. He wouldn’t leave me alone. Things got so bad, after graduation, I decided to quietly leave Canada. I had to get away from him. He was making my life miserable, and I feared for myself and the safety of those close to me. I moved to a small town in upstate New York where I drifted into a false sense of security. Never in a million years did I think Rob would follow me, hunt me down like an animal. Torment me. Rob was always that ghost in my peripheral. Haunting. Threatening. When his attempts to reconcile failed, he became furious. I wore bruises. I cried, couldn’t sleep. Restraining Orders did nothing but anger him more. It was like living in a nightmare.

VV: What finally happened in New York?

SA:  He broke into my apartment … and …

VV: We can stop the interview, Sienna. I can see you’re becoming upset.

SA: No … it’s okay, Victoria. I can do this. He broke into my apartment and  … he was like a madman. He tried to kill me.

VV: Obviously, his attempt was unsuccessful, thank goodness. I understand a neighbor found you and called for help. How is your life these days?

SA: My life has taken a three sixty.  I have a good job, loving friends, two adorable pets  … and …

VV: Suddenly you’re smiling. From across the table, I can feel the positive vibes. Now you have me smiling … and wondering. How did you manage to recover from such horror?

SA: It took time to put it all behind me, but with the help of a counselor, I’m finally at peace and have overcome the nightmares. I’m fortunate to be alive, and thankful. Rob is out of my life, for good, so I no longer live in fear. I’m independent. I’m strong.

VV: Your smile is growing broader. Will you share?

SA:  The negative has turned to positive, and I feel like I’m surrounded by love. In my spare time, I volunteer at a local shelter where we care for abandoned pets, find homes for them. It’s very rewarding and a big part of my life. And I’ve met someone who shares my passion for …  Let’s just say, I’ve met a very nice man and leave it at that.

VV: I understand you’ve been selected to be one of the main characters in an exciting new book.

SA: Yes. I’m thrilled to be a part of January Valentine’s project, Love Dreams.

VV: Tell us about Love Dreams.

SA: Love Dreams is a contemporary romance, charting the tumultuous journey of a young woman who has survived a devastating, toxic relationship which has left her emotionally challenged. She’s broken, plagued by night terrors, unable to move on . . . until . . .

VV: Does she find romance?  If so, is she capable of trusting another man after what she’s been through?

SA: She’s sworn off men, but one special guy manages to break down the barriers. The hero in January’s book is a beautiful, physically handicapped young man who shares the heroine’s inability to accept the hand dealt by fate.  The story focuses on their struggle to overcome tragedy and find inner peace. Although things seem impossible, after a series of  ‘accidental’ encounters, they can’t help but surrender to love. It’s a sweet, gripping romance, somewhat erotic. There is a strong back story, which makes it more than an average romance. Love Dreams is more of a hit and miss, romantic drama.

VV: Do the two lovers finally manage to get together?

SA: You’ll have to read the book to find out, but I can tell you this: There are two men vying for her affection, making her chaotic life even more complicated.

VV: Love Dreams sounds like an interesting book. I wish you and the author the best of luck. Thank you for visiting with us. It’s wonderful to hear that you have conquered the dismal past, and have evolved into the delightful and secure woman sitting right here before me. I know you’ll join me in wishing the same success for every woman, especially those who have been affected by any form of abuse or adversity. May you live the life you choose and live it well, enjoying health, happiness and serenity.

Victoria’s books can be found on Amazon.com and Water Forest Press Books. Her ebooks are available in numerous Internet stores.

Personal sites:   

http://www.januaryvalentine.com      http://www.victoriavalentine.net

Water Forest Press Books:

http://waterforestpressbooks.miiduu.com/

Love Dreams is available in paperback, Kindle and Nook.

Kindle Edition: http://www.amazon.com/Love-Dreams-ebook/dp/B007GPGZYM

Nook Book: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-dreams-january-valentine/1109350206?ean=2940014792851

Thank you Victoria and Sienna!

Morning Pick Me Up

I had a wonderful little surprise waiting for me this morning! The Sisterhood of World Bloggers Award bestowed upon me by fellow blogger, Sabrina Garie. She has the great tag line – Life’s a journey, keep it spicy

To accept this award, I have to share 7 things about myself so here goes:

Ornithophobe – I am one. It means that I have a fear of birds. And that’s all birds from parakeets to ostriches. No matter where I am, I’ll scream if one gets close to me. (Ask my embarrassed husband, children and friends,)

Middle Name – I hated my middle name so much that I had a legal name change when I was 18 to have it removed. (Don’t ask me what it was.)

Favorite Movie – The Color Purple and Pulp Fiction battle for the top spot.

Parking – Not very good at it.

Mimicking – In high school choir, I discovered that if I stood next to a good singer I could match their pitch and tone. So I’m a great back-up singer.

Reading – I read on the train to and from work each weekday. Two full hours!

Laughing – I find something that makes me laugh everyday.

In the spirit of this award, I’m passing it along to someone who has been such an encouragement to me since starting my own writing journey ~

Kassanna

Music For Her Soul – Now Available

I was so excited when I checked Amazon and Music For Her Soul was there! Yay!

Available from Amira Press

Here the links for sale on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and All Romance.

Amazon: Kindle Edition

Barnes and Noble: Nook Book

All Romance: Multiple Formats

An Excerpt From Music For Her Soul

Bastard! Why wouldn’t he let her go? Any effort to turn away was thwarted by the draw of the brilliant white spotlight following his solitary figure mounting the steps to the stage. He looked resplendent in the simple shirt unbuttoned past his collarbone, stretching over his taut chest and falling unfettered to his tapered waist. His jeans wrapped snugly around his slim hips as he stood with his legs spread slightly apart, his back arching backward. His fingers masterfully tapped the trumpet’s keys, making it sing a song that exploded a scorching, shameless lust within her.

He steadily fingered the instrument, resonating tones that wrapped her body in a cocoon of deliciously illicit memories of what had taken place that first night. She brought a finger to her mouth and glided it over the smooth edges of her teeth, suckled it, and grazed it over her arid lips. He had taken her breath away and he was doing it now. Any resistance she once had coupled willingly with the notes of his siren song and floated away.

Entranced and on the verge of an old-fashioned swoon, she was saved by the sharp piano chords. “Gone boy, whoo…whoooo!” a woman’s voice rang out, and the crowd burst into thunderous applause as Ethan bowed to the pianist and stepped to the rear of the stage.

She could have run to him right then. Damn the show, damn the crowd. But he hadn’t loved her enough to come back for her, his most important obligation. She twisted in her seat, relieving the ache that stirred between her crossed legs.

Her head swam and she sank back into her chair, unable to tear her eyes away from him. The memory of his caress kindled old flames of desire and ignited new ones. Shifting uncomfortably in the hard, wooden chair, she cursed him not for her desires, but for the painful choice she had to make where he was concerned.

At last, the lights came up amid a series of claps and whistles. Ethan strode off stage and headed in her direction. Breathe, damn it. Her entire body tensed, bracing for the feel of his fingers heated by the vibrations of the keys grazing her skin.

An amorous pang clamped her thighs shut and she pressed her lips tightly together lest the sound of unmistakable want emerge without her consent.

“Did you enjoy that?” he whispered.

Thanks, Updates And The End Of Summer

It has been a fun week around the blogosphere for me and I wanted to thank those who made it happen:

Anne Ashby, author of Wilderness Liaison: Great interview on the Vallory V Blog with her heroine, Jamie Mathieson.

Kristy Centeno, author of Call Of The Wolf: I had an author spotlight on her blog, Books by Centeno. She had questions that made me think.

Tiffany Rose, author of Fun With Buster: I had a blog post on the Tiffany Rose Erotic Romance Blog entitled As Long As Your Nipples Are Covered. And it’s not what you think. I’m talking about one of my favorite places to set a romance ~ New Orleans!

I also wanted to give you a couple of updates:

Betrothed – My historical interracial romance. Wow! This thing has grown and I’m sending it off to my favorite reader who is also on vacation this week. She has promised to let me know if it is finished yet. Then, one more revision on my part before going to the editor.

Something Wicked – As my friends find out what I write, they like to tell me stories. Some are funny and some are weird. Then they tell me to find a home in a romance for something like that. Okay, I nod politely. And then I was told something that wouldn’t leave me alone. Ideas, characters, scenes demanded to be written. Something Wicked was born. (I am still working through the details and you’ll be able to read the first chapter soon. A scene is posted on the My Writing tab.)

Hero Worship Week (September 10th – 15th): I’m hosting a week of character interviews featuring the heroes of the romances we write. Do drop by and meet the first men interviewed on the Vallory V Blog! I even made a cute button.

What the end of summer means in my little corner of the world:

• Coordinating pick up and drop off schedules
• Volleyball practice and games
• Three year old soccer
• Finding new chili recipes
• Preparing for the holidays
• And writing, writing, writing

Enjoy the rest of your week ~ Val

Sunday Morning Chat Hosted by Anne Ashby

While I’m visiting with Kristy Centeno on the Books By Centeno blog, Anne Ashby has graciously accepted the role of guest host for the day.

Anne Ashby is an author of warm, fuzzy and fun contemporary romance living in New Zealand. Today she will be interviewing Jodie Mathieson of Wilderness Liason, a sensual contemporary romance published in print and digital format by The Wild Rose Press.

Back Blurb

The concrete jungle defines financier Shal Gregory. He thrives on the liveliness and sheer vitality of the fast paced business world. So how does he find himself alone in the thick of the New Zealand bush with a feisty guide who undoubtedly despises everything he stands for?
Jodie Mathieson’s devotion to the wilderness fulfils her. She isn’t prepared for an intimate liaison with a man who clearly does not share her love of the great outdoors. But the sparks between them ignite and soon scare Jodie into flight.
Bewildered but determined, Shal tracks Jodie down and resolutely embarks on a course to convince her that having some differing life goals isn’t enough to keep them apart.
But can Jodie ignore past experiences? Dare she believe him?

Hi Jodie, thanks for joining us today. I’d love for you to tell us a little about yourself. What do you do for a living?
(settling into a chair with a warm smile) I’m a lecturer at Auckland University

I understand you have a doctorate in geography, do you have a specialty?
It’s so important that we all learn to protect our flora and fauna. My interests include restoration ecology, conservation restoration and conservation biology.

Okaaay, wow that sounds impressive, I’m not even sure what they are, but shall we move on. I’m sure our readers are more interested in your personal life. How old are you?
(smile broadening into a grin) I won’t see 30 again.

I understand you have an intense love of the bush, when did this begin?
I was brought up in the countryside. My parents have always been very involved with tramping and protecting New Zealand’s natural environment. I’ve never known a time when the bush didn’t play a major role in my life.

Were you one of those children who sneaked away to do what you wanted to do?
(Chuckles) Most definitely, I’d head into the bush any chance I got.

And frequently got punished for doing so?
Oh yes, frequently (her eyes sparkling with some memories).

You are close to your parents? Did you ever consider refusing to be part in that team-building exercise your parents were running?
No, never. Our family might be divided by distance but we are very close. They needed help. I would never have considered refusing them.

Your first meeting with Shal Gregory wasn’t too auspicious. What caused the friction?
(Atmosphere changes from warm to ice in a split second) I’d rather not talk about him, thank you.

Oh! Did you wonder who would be taking part in that course? Were you anxious about having to take over as leader?
(Back stiffens) Not at all. I’m perfectly capable of guiding a bunch of townies through the bush. Who they were wasn’t relevant.

Even though one of them proved to be a problem?
He would only be a problem if I allowed it.

You felt confident you could control Shal Gregory?
Control? I’m not interested in trying to control anyone – I was confident of being able to assert my authority in an environment where Mr. Gregory was out of place.

You certainly achieved that and within a very short time frame.
(Arms folded across her chest, Jodie glares across at the interviewer but makes no comment)

You prefer not to answer?
(Eyebrows rise) Was that a question?

How did you feel when Shal Gregory volunteered to accompany you on the rescue mission?
He was strong and capable and really the only choice. It was a logical decision.

You felt no qualms about spending days alone with him in the wilderness?
Of course not. Why would I?

Even though you were already physically attracted to him?
What? – I was not.

Did you wish your time together in your parents’ cabin could have lasted longer?
Of course not! Don’t be ridiculous.

Why did you leave so abruptly? Why are you hiding from him now?
That’s got nothing to do with you. (Leaping to her feet) And I am not hiding. Look, this was supposed to be an interview about leading a team building exercise not any ….

What would you do if Shal Gregory walked through your office door right now? Would you slap his face or fall into his arms?
Sorry – This interview is over. (Jodie stalks out with interviewer dashing after her)

Ms Mathieson, Ms Mathieson, what happened at that cabin? What happened between you that made run off in the dead of night?

Find the answers to these and many more questions in “WILDERNESS LIAISON” available at all major book sellers.

The Wild Rose Press: http://goo.gl/rl2D2
Amazon: http://goo.gl/Dg08q
GoodReads: http://goo.gl/u2uIj

Find Anne Ashby Here
Website: www.anneashby.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorAnneAshby
Twitter: www.twitter.com/AuthorAnneAshby

Release Date – Music For Her Soul

Music For Her Soul was released today by Amira Press! This is my second published work with Amira Press and I’m just as excited as my first publication, Calendar Girl.

So why all the music this past week? I love live music. I went to a few concerts in high school and thought they were okay. Honestly, I would have rather listened to the album.

Then I went to college in New Orleans and with one of my best friends, Judy, I discovered the joys of live music. We went to small settings like The Spotted Cat where you and the band were touching distance apart and you felt every beat of the music. Then there was Tipitina’s where you and the audience members were crushed together in a giant group dance and no one cared. Outdoor festivals, where you lazed on a blanket while a group playing southern rock, the blues or jazz became your best friends.

Both Lena and Ethan, the H/h of Music For Her Soul, share my love of live music and know how it can transform the performer and the listener alike.

I hope you enjoy their story!

Available from Amira Press

New Orleans Musicians – Harry Connick, Jr.

Sexy as hell. Look at his face. He just knows he’s touching the keys in all the right spots!

Don’t Get Around Much Anymore

Ethan lands tomorrow! Lena, are you ready?

New Orleans Musicians – Wynton Marsalis

Ethan Holden, the hero of Music For Her Soul, plays the trumpet.

Dead Man Blues