Monday Mayhem – Reclaiming my routine

This week I’m going to focus on getting back into my pre-2014 routine. What does this mean? I need to figure out how to manage my time in this brave new world I’ve entered. Since I’m working toward feeling better physically, my first order of business will be to figure out how to fit gym time into my day. Next, I’ll tackle reestablishing the daily word count.

So I thought I’d start here with the good old fast five. Ready? Here we go!

What I’ve been working on: I’m about halfway through the battle of the sexes story I’ve been working on, but need to narrow the focus a bit. I’ve spent the least week reading, editing, and rewriting what I have so far in hopes of getting it on track to finish.

What’s running around in the back of my mind: A plot bunny inspired by an old Frank Sinatra song. Can you guess which one?

What I’ve accomplished: I worked all weekend, but I did get this post done. Does that count?

What new goal I’m chasing: Reclaiming my writing routine.

What I saw: Park Hill Collection showroom at the Dallas Market Center.

So, to get things back on track, let’s do something fun…Comment below and take a guess at which Sinatra song is making me itch to write a story and I’ll draw one winner from the correct answers for a choice of any book from my (or Maggie’s) digital backlist – one copy for you, and one for a friend!

May 5, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Marvelous

You guys, I have to tell you that I had the nicest weekend. It was a hectic week, starting out with a case of strep throat and continuing through to Friday, which has become back-to-back meeting day for me at the day job. I kicked the weekend off by doing one of the funnest of all fun things…having an eye exam.

Okay, maybe not such a blast, but it was a relief to have it done. I had an appointment back in February, but had to cancel due to an ice storm. Then, I was on the road most of March. I have no idea what happened to April, but I have been running on my last pair of contact lenses. It had to be done.

So there. I checked it off the list. Made the man get his peepers looked at too. Goose-gander, birds slain with a single stone….

Since we were already in chore mode, Fodder and I did the grocery shopping while we were out. That onerous task complete, I was able to retire to the recliner where I chatted with my girls and generally goofed off until it was time to crawl into bed.

Fodder and I had talked about having some type of getaway over the weekend. It’s been a stressful ~~few weeks~~ ~~months~~ year, and we just wanted to do something a little fun. We settled on spending a few hours just about 45 minutes up the road in Conway, AR, where the Toad Suck Daze festival was in full swing.

No, I did not just make up that name. It’s a thing. Here’s the website.

Sadly, to get to the festival, we had to pass through tornado-stricken Mayflower, AR. I won’t post pics or say anything more here because I can’t do justice to the utter devastation left in the path of that storm. I will simply ask you to please continue to support your own local Red Cross and other relief organizations.

The festival was fun, the day was beautiful, and the fair food? Well, let’s just say no one left hungry. We had toasted ravioli and cannelloni, jambalaya with sausage and chicken, kettle corn, and our new fair friend: deep fried cookie dough.

Yes, that is a hunk of frozen chocolate chip cookie dough (egg-free, we were told) deep-fried, dipped in chocolate, and rolled in pecans. Yeah…good times.

My handsome escort also won a prize for me at one of the many ~~sucker magnets~~ games of skill set up along the midway. Meet Colonel Corn – the latest and greatest ~~weapon of spousal torment~~ token of my love’s esteem and affection.

I’ll leave the ensuing conversations to your imagination. Now, multiply everything you just thought by ten, and you may have an inkling of what Fodder’s ride home from Toad Suck might have been like. I haven’t laughed that much or that hard in a while.

Back on the Ethridge Estate, we proceeded to nap in anticipation of another storm blowing through our neck of the woods. This tiny tempest was thoroughly enjoyable, though, and the path of destruction he wrought much more easily set to rights.

This morning, Fodder and I drove down to the Arkansas River to walk the lovely paths at Two Rivers Park.

While we were strolling we sighted a couple of does and a yearling not 100 yards from us. The sun was sparkling on the river, the sky was blue and cloudless, and the hills fresh and green with spring growth. It was the perfect way to start the day.

Later in the afternoon, I planted impatiens in the hanging baskets and spent a little time holding paws with my puppy dogs whilst my hero grilled steaks. And now, here I am in my chair – full, happy, and more relaxed than I’ve been in a long, long time.

I think we’re all caught up on my side now. Tell me what’s been happening in your world!

Oh! And don’t forget (like I almost did) about Love Finds A Way – the new boxed set that includes Contentment! It’s available now for only $0.99! Please tell all of your friends!

April 21, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Behind the curtain

Here’s the thing no one tells you when you start down this road: There are times when being an author is mind-bogglingly tedious. It’s true. The making up stories and writing them down is just a teensy-tiny little bit of what an author does day in and day out.

Sunday was a perfect example. Here’s a brief rundown of how I spent my day:

1) Replied to blog post comments.

2) Shared links on social media pages.

3) Wrote additional scene for story I’m revising.

4) Updated links on websites.

5) Entered author and book data for upcoming app release.

6) Adapted a manuscript to fit a house style guide.

7) Wrote this blog post.

8) Email correspondence.

And though I’ve clocked over 2,000 words today, not one of these things has resulted in fresh new story being added to my work in progress. And when one only has about 2-3 hours of author time per night…well, you get the picture.

So yeah, this is turning into a half-assed want ad for an assistant. One willing to work for peanuts. Literally. I’ve got a bag of Beer Nuts here for the lucky ~~victim~~ uh, volunteer. Apply in the comments below.

Oh, and I was serious about the peanuts.

So, tell me, if you could hire someone to handle any aspect of your life for you, what would it be?

April 14, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Here we go again!

I feel compelled to warn you, I’m going to be bugging the bejesus out of you again. You see, I’ve found out that I will have two more books included in boxed sets this year. Yay!

First up, and coming very soon: Love Finds A Way – featuring Contentment!

Then later this fall, Paramour will be included in a set of romances with a paranormal bent. Whoo hoo!

Though it’s been a rough year for new writing projects, it’s shaping up to be a very busy year for my existing works. Thanks to the Unforgettable Heroes boxed set, Long Distance Love will reach thousands of readers who have never read one of my books before. I’m hoping Contentment and Paramour will reach new readers as well.

So this boxed set trend is a big thing now. What do you think about them? Good? Bad? Are you indifferent? Have you discovered any new-to-you authors you love?

April 7, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Hopping along

It’s bunny season, so it seems only right that I participate in a blog hop, right?

The fabulous Karen Stivali tagged me for the hop. Be sure to check her answers as well! Here goes:

1) What are you working on? At the moment, I’m writing a battle of the sexes type romance between a college football coach and the women’s basketball coach. At the moment I’m calling it Full Court Press. It’ll probably end up in Maggie’s wheelhouse. Seems like everything does these days. 🙂

2) How does your work differ from others in the genre? I think the biggest difference is that I’m not afraid to feature heroes and heroines who are a little more…seasoned than most. Yes, age does leave your characters at the mercy of gravity, but I think age adds depth to the character’s motivations. And to the steamy scenes as well.

3) Why do you write what you write? I guess this is where I fall back on the old ‘write what you know’ bit. Living inside the head of a nubile, young virgin would be a bit of a stretch for me at this point in my life.

4) How does your writing process work? Ha! I don’t really have much of a process. I am a pantser by nature, but have learned to use a loose sort of outline to keep my works on track. Other than that, all I require would be some background music and the occasional box of Cheez-Its.

Now I’m tagging Linda Rettstat, Bobbye Terry, and Evelyn Jules. Watch their blogs for their take on the same questions!

Happy Monday, my friends!

March 31, 2014

Monday Mayhem – It’s been mayhem

I was home only 14 of 31 days in the month of March. Yes, I counted, and yes, I’m using that as an excuse. I’m sorry I missed you last week, but my life actually was mayhem last Monday. But I’m here now and I have a fast five for you. Let’s catch up, shall we?

What I’ve been working on: This is the last day to grab Unforgettable Heroes for $.99, so I’m working on promo today. I’d appreciate it if you’d help me spread the word. The response to this boxed set offering has been phenomenal. I hope to be able to participate in more sets to come! The price will be going up to $6.99 as of April 1. Still a great deal for 8 books!

What’s running around in the back of my mind: A crazy plot bunny that hopped into my head last night. Poor little baby bunny. It’s so far down on the list of potential projects it’s going to have emerge fully-formed and write itself to bump its predecessors out of the way.

What I’ve accomplished: Hey, I wrote this blog post, didn’t I?

What new goal I’m chasing: I hope to spend many hours in my chair writing.

What I saw: My mommy.

March 19, 2014

Renee Vincent wants you to come and get it!

My pal, Renee Vincent has a new boxed set!

EMERALD ISLE TRILOGY

Boxed Set

By Renee Vincent

One man risks his life to save her.

Another risks his heart to love her.

Who will be the victor?

Three of Renee Vincent’s bestselling and critically acclaimed historical Viking romance novels are now available in one spellbinding bundle—yours for only 99¢ (limited time offer)

Full of fast-paced adventure, unforeseen plot twists, and courageous, to-die-for heroes like you’ve never read before, this extraordinary boxed set is sure to satisfy every readers’ craving for the ultimate in historical Viking romance.

Available at:

Ræliksen, Book 1

Mara, the daughter of an Irish clansman, was raised to believe the men of the North are heathens – murderous pagans without a moral bone in their bodies. Despite warnings of the Northmen’s raids, and the growing threat of another incursion, Mara is continually drawn to her favorite place – the River Shannon.

Dægan Ræliksen, a wealthy chieftain from Norway’s frozen fjords, secretly discovers Mara at the water’s edge. He is charmed by her beauty and sensuous grace. As the days pass, his contentment with simply watching her grows thin. He can no longer deny his unabated desire for the young maiden. His search for a wife has ended.

However, Mara and Dægan come face-to-face in a time when Ireland is in turmoil – when every Irishman is being called up to fight against the Nordic foreigners. In these times of upheaval, how can Dægan make peace with Mara’s father and acquire the woman he treasures? Furthermore, can Mara move past her fears and find the noble man within the savage?

Teaser Quote:

“You are correct in saying that desires often come from things we cannot easily gain—mine, being that of your love. By all accounts, I do wish I could steal it. But I am not that sort of man. I will wait. Forever and a day…I will wait.”

Reviews:

“This is my first read by Renee Vincent and she has undoubtedly earned a place on my auto-buy author’s list. This book and author earn my highest recommendations and I feel privileged to have read one of the best.”

~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“…a fast-paced, action-packed historical romance, which Ms. Vincent brings to life right before your eyes; a story you will remember long after the last page is read.”

~ 5 Blue Ribbons! ~ Romance Junkies

Mac Liam, Book 2

A tortured soul…

Breandán Mac Liam, the strapping young hunter from Ireland’s lush forests, is in love with Mara, an ineligible beautiful princess. For seven long years, he has been vividly haunted by her memory, taunted by the throes of his heartache. And not even the thought of her marriage to a Northman can extinguish the fierce, burning desire running rampant through his heart and soul.

An innocent heart…

Mara, the spirited Connacht princess, has no idea she is the object of the Irishman’s longing. She is living out her days on Inis Mór, raising a troubled son and trying to endure the cruel loneliness that afflicts her.

A deadly secret…

Ordered by the king on his deathbed, Breandán must return to Mara and bring her through the perilous lands of Connacht to fulfill her father’s last dying wish. But as their worlds collide, Breandán not only finds himself wrapped in the arms of Mara’s embrace, but thrown into a struggle to defend his honor.

With Mara caught between the family she loves and the father she knows, can Breandán uncover the mystery of her past and still protect her from a secret that threatens them all?

Teaser Quote:

“Mara, you are my next breath. You are the reason I breathe at all.”

Reviews:

“This is one fantastic historical…a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical romance and I cannot wait to read the final book of the trilogy as this story has stayed with me days after I read the last word.”
~ 5 Hearts “5 Heart Sweetheart Award” ~ The Romance Studio

“Ms. Vincent surpassed all of my expectations with her impressive writing abilities, while offering more incites and revelations that will keep readers coming back for more. Readers should be warned of the emotional turmoil they will face once again while reading this incredible story. I eagerly anticipate the next story in this trilogy, yet already mourn the finality.”

~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

The Fall of Rain, Book 3

Leif Dæganssen, an archeologist from Norway, is determined to trace back his Scandinavian roots as far as the Dark Ages and find proof of their existence on the Emerald Isle. After several years of living off the west coast of Ireland, he finally uncovers an ancient artifact—an intricately decorated chest with pagan carvings—buried beneath the very porch of his coastal cottage. Knowing it only confirms the presence of a glorified Norse-influenced settlement on Inis Mór, he’s determined to establish a link between himself and those who once inhabited the rugged isle.

For as long as she can remember, Lorraine O’Connor has had dreams of a Norse warrior kissing her. And even though she’s never fully understood the reason for her vivid subconscious imagination, she welcomes the meaningless and wanton pleasure of being in a Viking’s protective embrace—until the day she meets that brazen Northman on an impulsive vacation trip to Ireland.

Though blindsided by the relevance of her dreams and the strange familiarity of the man within them, Lorraine can’t help but feel a deep-seated intimacy toward Leif. And the more she gets to know him, the more she’s convinced they’ve shared a life together in a time long forgotten.

Are the clues to their ancestral past hidden within the contents of the chest or buried deep within their hearts?

Teaser Quote:

“What Lorraine has told you is the honest truth. There’s no denying who you are. But until you go in that house and dig up the evidence for yourself, you’ll never know who you used to be. Oh, I know you’ll realize it one day. By then, I fear it’ll be too late. So, don’t be a fool and let the only woman you’ve ever loved slip through your grasp. Three days, Leif.”

Reviews:

“I didn’t believe it was possible to take Daegan and Mara’s incredible love story to another level, but I am extremely pleased to be wrong. Every word seemed to have a purpose in helping create a beautiful and poetic ending to an unforgettable trilogy. If you’ve never heard of the name Renee Vincent then you’re missing out on quality reading that’s worth every second of your undivided attention. It’s an escapists dream and I will most certainly be back for more.”

~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“An ingenious ending to an amazing trilogy! This series has become my all-time favorite.”

~ 5 Blue Ribbons ~ Romance Junkies

Author Bio:

RENEE VINCENT is a bestselling Contemporary & Historical Romance Author. From the daunting, charismatic Vikings, to the charming, brazen Alpha male heroes of modern day, you’ll be whisked away to a world filled with fast-paced adventure, unforgettable romance, and undying love.

She also writes lighthearted, fancy-free Chick Lit Romance as GRACIE LEE ROSE. For those who love to read fun, wholesome, and endearing romantic stories (with a smidgen of spunk) that your mother, sisters, friends, and daughters can enjoy.

Author Links:

http://www.reneevincent.com/

http://www.pasttheprint.blogspot.com/

http://www.twitter.com/ReneeVincent

http://www.facebook.com/reneevincentauthor

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3005290.Renee_Vincent

March 17, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Top o the mornin’ to ya!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Shannon proved to have the luck of the Irish on her side when she commented on last week’s post. She was the winner of the $10 Amazon gift card!

So I thought I’d give you a 5 St. Patrick’s Day themed bits about me today.

1) I was raised listening to The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, and was able to see them in concert several times. Great fun!

2) My mother taught me to dance a jig. I only do it when she makes me.

3) I can recite most of The Quiet Man.

4) I do not eat corned beef, cabbage, fish or lamb, so I would probably starve if I ever actually went to Ireland. I do, however, drink beer.

5) I have a kind of a…partiality toward men of Irish extraction. Sean or Tom Sullivan, anyone? Oh, and if they have a bit of the brogue! *fans self* I could listen to Liam Neeson talk all day. I wouldn’t mind hearing him talk all night, too…nudge-nudge, wink-wink, so no more!

Tell me, are you a wee bit Irish? Do you celebrate with the wearing o’ the green?

March 10, 2014

Monday Mayhem – I have something to say

And that something is THANK YOU!

Thanks to YOU, I am officially an Amazon bestselling author! Squeeee!

You all have been so awesome about helping to spread the word about UNFORGETTABLE HEROES and my fellow authors and I truly appreciate your support. So much so that I have a little something for you.

A $10 Amazon gift card!

Just comment below and tell me what you’ve been reading lately. It’s that simple. I’ll draw the name of one winner on Sunday, March 16, 2014.

February 17, 2014

Monday Mayhem – Hanging with Jenny from L.A.

My pal and fellow Unforgettable Heroes author, Jennifer Johnson, is here to play with us today!

****

YAY!! It’s President’s Day! That day that my kid might have had off except we’re on the bajillionth snow day so the little buggers have to make up all the days they’ve been home tracking wet icy tracks across the floor of the house and asking me where their gloves are.

Since Margaret is letting me hang out here today, I wanted to share a few interesting tidbits about presidents.

Calvin Coolidge had a pygmy hippo and two raccoons as pets.

William Taft had a bigger bathtub installed in the White House to accommodate his 300+ lb. body.

John Quincy Adams used to skinny dip in the mornings in the Potomac River during his presidency.

James Garfield was not only ambidextrous, but he could write Latin with one hand and Greek with the other at the same time.

Isn’t that cool?

My name is Jennifer Johnson, and I write contemporary romance. I’m thrilled to be one of the authors of the Unforgettable Heroes anthology along with Margaret Ethridge, my friend and one time hotel roomie.

My book in the anthology is called Holding Out for a Hero. The hero is a street person who catches the interest of Abigail Benson, a down-on-her-luck socialite.

Here is my favorite picture of me:

This is at my aunt’s country chalet in L.A. That stands for Lower Alabama if you didn’t know.

Do you notice what is not here?

Snow.

Why? Because I am done with the snow days, people. So, on this President’s Day, I’m just going to think about lying in the hammock, ruminating on obscure presidential facts, and NOT about winter temperatures or the *S* word.

Ready for warm weather. Right here.

Here is a link to our Unforgettable Heroes!

http://www.turquoisemorningpressbookstore.com/products/unforgettable-heroes-boxed-set