Book Blast: Loving Lizzie Finn

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Tamara Hughes. Today, Tamara shares her new release, Loving Lizzie Finn.

Blurb

Lizzie Finn grew up in a brothel, and she’s reminded of that fact every day. She dreams of finding a job and becoming independent. Only then can she be free of her aunt’s disdain. First, she must find an employer who won’t turn her away because of her past.

Byron Greeley is determined to save his family’s business after Lizzie’s uncle falsifies the amount Byron owes on a loan from the bank. Determined to find proof of Teague’s perfidy, Byron slips into the banker’s house and rummages through the study only to be discovered by Lizzie, a red-haired beauty who utterly captivates him.

Byron offers Lizzie a job in exchange for information about her uncle, and because she believes her uncle is innocent, she agrees. When Teague discovers Lizzie and Byron’s growing affection, he threatens to destroy Byron and his family, insisting Byron is exploiting her. Is Teague’s warning well-founded? Are Byron’s feelings for Lizzie true, or is Byron using her for his own gain?

Excerpt

A spring in her step, Emma placed the rose gown on the bed and returned to the wardrobe. “I saw the most handsome man last night.”

Lizzie’s pulse leaped. “You did?” Had Emma seen the drunken stranger in Uncle’s study? The handsome intruder had occupied Lizzie’s thoughts all night long.

“Of course I did. He is a sight for sore eyes.” Emma returned with the green skirt and carefully lowed it over Lizzie’s head. “Dark eyes, almost black in color, with a gaze so intense he nearly stole my breath.”

Yes. Exactly. As much as she’d tried, she couldn’t get the memory of those eyes out of her head.

Emma secured the skirt and grabbed the bodice. “And his hair, the same as his eyes, black as night.”

Slipping her arms into the sleeves, Lizzie disagreed, “I would hardly call it black, more a dark brown, the color of chestnuts. Which suits him quite well.” With strong, bold features, and a lean frame … She smiled a little when she thought of him. A handsome devil to be sure.

Emma came around to face Lizzie and began to button the gown’s front. “No. I’m quite sure Felix has darker hair than that.”

“Felix?” Had that been his name?

“Yes, our new footman.”

Footman? Lizzie’s cheeks flamed, and her smile dissipated. The man she’d met last night was no footman. He’d spoken of running his family’s business. How embarrassing to be caught admiring a complete stranger. What was wrong with her?

Author Bio and Links

A small-town girl with a big imagination, Tamara Hughes had no idea what to do with her life. After graduating from college, she moved to a big city, started a family and a job, and still struggled to find that creative outlet she craved. An avid reader of romance, she gave writing a try and became hooked on the power of exploring characters, envisioning adventures, and creating worlds. She enjoys stories with interesting twists and heroines who have the grit to surmount any obstacle, all without losing the ability to laugh.

Giveaway

Tamara Hughes will be awarding a $20 Amazon/Barne & Noble gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Tamara on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.

Interview with Karen Charles

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Karen Charles. Today, Karen shares her creative journey and new release, Blazing Upheaval.

Interview

What was your inspiration for this book?

Blazing Upheaval is based on a true story. I like to transform real-life narratives into gripping fiction thrillers. I’m amazed by the experiences and events people are unexpectedly thrown into. They inspire me with their strength and courage, facing daunting circumstances. I intricately weave the threads of their story into a tapestry of suspense and intrigue.

As a former teacher who lived through the Rodney King riots and the Northridge earthquake in Los Angeles, I witnessed firsthand the tumult and the recovery that followed. These events were not just historical footnotes but lived experiences that profoundly affected individuals and communities. The courage, solidarity, and determination I saw inspired me to capture these moments in a way that honors the real-life heroes who navigated through them.

What is the best part of being an author? The worst?

The best part of being an author is the creative freedom to create entire worlds, develop characters, and tell stories that can resonate with my readers on a deep level. There is immense satisfaction in seeing my work in print. I hope it will have an impact on readers. Writing requires lots of research and introspection, giving me a deeper understanding of various topics and myself.

Sometimes, the worst part of being an author is the isolation and loneliness. It’s hard on my confidence when I get negative reviews.

Describe your writing space.

My writing space is a comfortable couch by the window where I have good lighting. Next to me will be my phone, pens, notebook, and laptop. I usually write in the winter so I cozy up in a blanket with coffee and snacks.
Which authors have inspired you?

The authors who have inspired me are Ann Cleeves, Lee Child, Ragnar Jonasson, Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, Nicholas Petrie, Alexander McCall Smith, and Thomas Perry.

What is your favorite quote?

“Live in the Sunshine”

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

My superpower would be understanding what people were saying in any language.

Besides writing and reading, what are some of your hobbies?

Besides writing and reading, I like to hike, travel, grow flower beds and orchids.

Any advice for aspiring writers?

Don’t let anything hold you back. Start writing!

What are you working on next?

I am working on a heartbreaking, heart-pounding, inspiring thriller based on a true story.

Blurb

In the heart of the tumultuous Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, a dedicated teacher finds herself thrust into a hazardous situation. Struggling to navigate the chaos and reach safety on the freeway, she faces dangerous obstacles that jeopardize her life. An unexpected rescue during a brutal attack plunges her, her family, and two other families into a chilling series of enigmatic events and escalating violence.

As the city grapples with unrest, they are entangled in a web of mysteries swiftly building in intensity. In the turmoil, their bonds of family, loyalty, and love are put to the ultimate test. The tension mounts relentlessly until an unforeseen revelation, coinciding with the cataclysmic Northridge earthquake, irrevocably changes their lives forever.

This gripping true-story thriller delivers suspenseful twists and heart-pounding moments, weaving a narrative of family resilience, solidarity, and enduring love in the face of daunting circumstances. It is a tale that illuminates the strength found within the human spirit when confronted with extraordinary challenges.

Excerpt

With renewed focus, her heart pounding against her ribcage, Tiffany emerged from the fray. She realized she was only a few blocks from the I-5 freeway, her haven of safety. She pressed the gas pedal, her car surging ahead with newfound urgency.

Tiffany came to an abrupt stop at the red light at the intersection where she would make a left turn onto the freeway entrance. Loud yelling frightened her. Three men surrounded her car. They bounced it up and down. Alarm gripped her racing heart as she understood the hatred in their eyes. They pulled on the locked doors. They pounded on the windows. She felt shock and disbelief as she realized the rioters wanted to harm her! She was helpless! She was trapped!

Buy Links

Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

Author Bio

Karen Charles transforms real-life narratives into gripping fiction thrillers. Her novels intricately weave the threads of truth into a tapestry of suspense, intrigue, and riveting storytelling. An educator by profession, she is renowned for her thriller “Fateful Connections,” which unfolds against the backdrop of 9/11. “Blazing Upheaval” promises to deliver another chilling, heart-pounding experience. Karen and her husband reside on the serene shores of a beautiful bay in Washington, where she draws inspiration for her compelling narratives. Explore her insights and musings on the writer’s life through her blogs on “My Life As A Writer.”

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Keep Your Chin Up!

Posted on November 20, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

On Wednesdays, I share posts, fables, songs, poems, quotations, TEDx Talks, cartoons, and books that have inspired and motivated me on my writing journey. I hope these posts will give writers, artists, and other creatives a mid-week boost.

Here are five tips that will help motivate and re-energize you:

Book Blast: Katie Walsh

Posted on November 19, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Colleen L. Donnelly. Today, Colleen shares her new release, Katie Walsh.

Blurb

Katie Walsh expects to write a love story someday. The hero resembles her father, and the heroine the deceased mother she never knew but imagines from the longing on her father’s face.

Katie doesn’t expect her father to be murdered, or his will to leave their farm to Guy Knowles, the man she hoped to marry, and order her to another state. Betrayed by the men she trusted, what should have become a love like no other withers and dies.

Until Ted Howard, who doesn’t fit the hole Guy left in her heart. Instead, he fits himself into what she needs—someone who will stay, protect her, and break his own heart for her if needed.

Excerpt

“You’re in love, aren’t you?” Her voice softened.

“Was in love. Like I said, it doesn’t matter now.” My voice wavered.

“There is no such thing as ‘was’ when it comes to first loves. They are the pioneers who break our hearts in and carve the place where forever love will eventually reside.”

Tears trickled down my cheeks.

“Who is he?” she coaxed.

“My neighbor in Nebraska. Evidently, I wasn’t the pioneer of his heart. Someone else will have that honor for Guy.” I could barely say his name, but Eliza had no trouble spurting, “Guy Knowles?” right back.

I glanced out the side window. Maybe Papa felt this sort of loss after Mama passed, and that was why he said so little when I plied him for more about her. The loss in his expression said he wanted what I did—more of and for the one we loved. Ultimately, more time.

Eliza leaned from her seat and wrapped me in her arms. “Go ahead. You need to cry. The mold Guy cut into your heart hurts because he didn’t fill it. But someday someone will. And you will be ready.”

I rested my head against hers and imagined a hole in my heart the exact shape as Guy. I didn’t want it filled by someone else someday. If Guy didn’t fill it, I wanted it gone. Forever.

Author Bio and Links

Colleen L Donnelly was born and raised in the US Midwest but ventured to other parts of the country as an adult to experience life from other perspectives. Besides writing, she spends time outdoors, antique hunting, reading, or watching a good movie. Even though she retired from a career in laboratory science, she is never bored and always busy at something.

Giveaway

Colleen L. Donnelly will be awarding a $15 Amazon/Barnes & Noble gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Colleen on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.

The Long and Winding Road

Posted on November 18, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Dena Weigel. Today, Dena shares the long and winding road to her writing career and her new release, The Byzantine Cross.

Here’s Dena!

Briefly describe your first act.

Thank you for including me in your Second Act Series and allowing me to share my writing!

It’s been a long and winding road to a writing career!

During my twenties and thirties, I was rudderless. I went to college, received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, then traveled overseas to study art and culture with students from all over the nation. After the program’s conclusion, I arrived home with a head full of new possibilities for my future. I ended up in a corporate marketing job by default.

After ten years in the office, I took my marketing experience on the road, freelance blogging for fifteen years for businesses, government entities, and nonprofits. I also attended writing classes, conferences, and writing groups. This was great, but it left little creative headspace for my own writing projects. One year ago, I reached a goal of landing a job in the publishing industry with a position at a book review company, and now I’m surrounded by people who are so generous with their knowledge.

What triggered the need for change?

I floundered through my corporate jobs for far too long before realizing I wrote at a level that executives could use but freelancing left me with no creative energy to finish my novel. So, I eventually ended my contracts and worked with a developmental editor to complete the story and get it to a publisher. I knew that if I didn’t go after this dream, I’d regret it—so why wait? I jumped in with both feet hanging onto hope for dear life!

Where are you now?

Last year I landed a job with a book review company and have achieved another goal of leaving the tech industry and finding my way into the writing/publishing business. I get to talk about books all day long!

Do you have advice for anyone planning to pursue a second act?

Don’t wait to start. You never know what’s around the corner, and time slips away so fast. Those things you want to do in life may be out of reach sooner than you think, and you don’t want to live with regret. Even if you fail, you learn—and that’s not failure.

Also, ask for guidance and help if you feel it will get you to your goal. People are more often than not excited to help others and share their knowledge.

Any affirmations or quotations you wish to share?
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” – Albert Einstein

Blurb

Former OSS spy, Sarah Kraft, thought she’d left her dangerous past behind in 1950s New York City. But when her former boss tracks her down and convinces her to accept a new mission-steal the ancient Byzantine Cross from inside the Kremlin for the CIA-she’s dragged back into the world of espionage. Once in Moscow, she’s promised the aid of a Russian double agent, Nicolai Rodzyanko, but things aren’t as they seem. Someone hired a hitman to eliminate Sarah, and she and Nicolai realize they’re not the only ones after the mysterious cross. As the two dig deeper into the history behind the oldest known biblical relic, they discover it’s far more than a simple artifact. Sarah starts questioning the motives of her former boss and the agency she once trusted, and when supernatural forces come into play, she must make a decision that could change the course of history.

Author Bio and Links

Dena Weigel was born and raised in Western Kansas, where her active curiosity stoked her growing imagination.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, she studied art and culture in over thirty countries before settling in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and building a career writing for businesses and non-profits around the world.

Dena enjoys hiking with her husband and daughter, painting, and relaxing on her deck with a cup of coffee and a great book. She is currently working on the next Sarah Kraft novel, The Argentinian Affair.

Trials Reveal Your Character

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

Here’s a thought-provoking reflection from international speaker and bestselling author Joyce Meyer:

Trials “try” us, and tests “test” us. Most of the time, the purpose of them is to show us who we really are, to reveal character in us.

We can think all kinds of good thoughts about ourselves, but until we are put to the test, we don’t know whether those things have become realities in us or not. We may consider ourselves generous, honest, or deeply committed to a particular truth or ideal, but the depths of these dynamics only reveals itself when we’re under pressure. When we go through trials, we learn whether or not we really have the character and commitment we think we have.

I believe it’s very important for us to really know ourselves, tests are good for us because they affirm strengths and reveal weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to face your weaknesses. God’s strength is available to you specifically for them.

I must say that before my trials worked steadfastness and patience into my life, they brought out many other negative qualities, mindsets, and attitudes I didn’t know I had. One reason God allows us to go through tests and trials is so the hidden things in our hearts can be exposed. Until they are exposed, we cannot do anything about them. But once we see them, we can begin to face them and ask God to help us.

God does not allow us to go through difficult times because he likes to see us suffer. He uses them for us to recognize our need for Him. Everything you go through ultimately does work out for your good because it makes you stronger and builds your endurance; it develops godly character; it helps you to know yourself and to be able to deal with things at an honest level with God and take care of those things so you can reach spiritual maturity.

Source: Trusting God Day by Day by Joyce Meyer

Remembrance Day 2024

Posted on November 11, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

When the Crisis Wins

Posted on November 6, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

In her latest release, 1000 Words: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Creative, Focused, and Productive All Year Round, novelist Jami Attenberg shares her advice and that of over 50 other writers.

Here’s an inspiring essay from Jami Attenberg:

I can sit here and write about the pandemic and say it was an extraordinary historical moment where many of our lives shifted if not only in terms of physical or mental health or relationships but also in how and where we work. It happened on a grand scale. But there will always be one life event or another that can distract you. Be prepared for this. I don’t live in fear of this but merely accept it as the truth. No one lives an entire life without a crisis at some point or another. And this may distract you from your daily practice.

After a family member was diagnosed with dementia, every time I visited them, I found it threw me off my work for a few days, if not longer. Eventually I began to find myself rushing to finish work before a family visit so I wouldn’t fall behind afterward. Because I knew I would need time to decompress, and I would not be able to be my best creative self. I thought, There is nothing I can do to change this moment of time in all our lives, and I need to be as present as possible. Something had to give, and work was it. I didn’t like how it affected me, but I had no choice. I, like you, am only human.

What I do not recommend is being angry with yourself for not getting your work done. None of us need to make ourselves feel bad twice. All we would be doing is building yet another hurdle for ourselves. Most of us need to feel comfortable, relaxed, and at ease in order to work, or at least able to trick our brains into feeling that way for a period of time. Being in a moment of crisis, and then being angry at yourself for being in that moment of crisis, will make it even harder to get work done. Everything takes time. And the work will be waiting for you when you are ready for it.

The crisis is temporary. Your work will be there for you forever.

Source: 1000 Words, p. 191

Blurb Blitz: Teacups and Temptations

Posted on November 4, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome Wild Rose Press author Kate Ellington. Today, Kate shares her new release, Teacups and Temptations.

Blurb

Molly Merriwether readily accepts an invitation to Waverly Hall, eager for adventure and amusement with her best friend. She never expected to be left unchaperoned with three intriguing young gentlemen for weeks.

Roger Bailey, recuperating in more ways than one, avoids Molly until her kindness and humor tempt him to deepen their acquaintance.

Molly lands in one unlikely escapade after the next with Roger and soon considers him a friend—perhaps more—but the barriers he puts up make it impossible to truly know him. Has she only imagined those tender looks in his eyes?

For a chance at love, Molly will need to bare her innermost self and trust someone more deeply than she’s ever dreamed possible.

Excerpt

Molly finished her tea and turned to Caroline. “Perhaps we should take some time to discuss our options. Alone.”

“Yes, I think we’d better,” Caroline said, setting her cup down.

Benedict rose. “We’ll step out so you can talk.”

Fred settled deeper into his chair as if hoping not to be noticed, but after a sharp look from Benedict stood and followed him out of the room. Mr. Bailey took Penny by the collar and left, closing the door behind him.

As soon as it clicked shut, Molly replenished their teacups. “Would you ever have dreamed we’d find ourselves in such a pickle?”

“Absolutely not. I imagine this means we need to leave.” Caroline sighed a sigh that sounded like it had been waiting years to get out.

Molly lifted one shoulder. “I don’t know…we’re already here and, as Fred said, it isn’t as though we’re alone in the house.”

“I’ve the feeling Fred would say anything to get us to stay. He seems the type of man to enjoy bending the rules.”

“I have the same feeling.” After glancing at the door, Molly whispered, “What do you think of Benedict?”

Caroline shifted on the sofa so she was facing Molly. “It’s too soon to say.”

“Do you think we should move to the inn?” Molly held her breath as she awaited Caroline’s answer.

Author Bio and Links

Kate grew up in a woodsy New England town where summer days at the lake seemed to last forever. She read her first historical romance at age eleven when a teacher challenged her to find a book in the library written by an author she’d never heard of. Thus began a life-long love of love stories.

After graduating from college, she settled in the Pacific Northwest, where she currently resides with her family.

Kate wrote her first romance when she was sixteen, then set her pen down for years until another story floated into her head out of the clear blue sky. She jotted it down, just for fun, but soon it took on a life of its own.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon Buy Link

Giveaway

Kate Ellington will be awarding a $20 Amazon gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Kate on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.

New Release: The 13th Letter

Posted on November 1, 2024 by Joanne Guidoccio

A new anthology from the Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem…

Blurb

M is for Mesdames, Messieurs, mystery…and murder!

M is the thirteenth letter of the alphabet, and it begins so many wicked words: malice, Machiavelli, mayhem and of course, murder. But it also heads up mischief, melody and madcap mystery. And what could better suit the Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem? After all, thirteen is our lucky number!

Welcome to our sixth anthology, a book of 22 deviously crafted tales based on each author’s twisted take on the letter “M” or literally, a thirteenth letter. Most stories are light-hearted to counter our troubled times but a few do shade into the dark. Enjoy them all and remember:

The Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem is a collective of established Canadian crime fiction authors and talented new writers of the genre. Follow the links in these pages to learn more about our novels and stories.

Buy Links

Amazon CA | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

Mesdames of Mayhem Links

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