CHARADE OF HEARTS WINS BEST ROMANCE SHORT STORY 2011

CONGRATULATIONS SHARON!

Sharon's gripping romantic suspense novella, 'Charade Of Hearts' in the Wild Rose Press series 'Jewel Of The Night', starring 'Oliver' won the 'Preditors & Editors Readers' Poll 2011.

If you haven't read this yet, I can heartily recommend it, here's  the blurb and an excerpt:

While scuba diving off the coast of Diamond Head with her diving partner on a quest to find a family heirloom, underwater photographer Dominique St. John witnesses his brutal murder and photographs it, ensnaring her in a deadly jewel ring. Then when the investigating officer turns out to be her partner’s identical twin, a man she knew nothing about, her life becomes a Charade of Hearts.

Welcome to the world of greed, intrigue, deception and murder. At its core is a blue diamond worth millions.

As honest as his twin was corrupt, Honolulu Homicide Detective Oliver Carvalho must convince Dominique that her diving partner and best friend was a crook. In a race against time, Oliver must rescue her from a ruthless killer, but his biggest challenge proves to be Dominique herself. Her heart has been torn by betrayal and can only be redeemed with love.

(Pages 122) Sweet

Excerpt:

 

The fog in her head slowly cleared.

She was on assignment in Hawaii, photographing the shipwreck that had taken her mother’s life. While she’d been shooting pictures, Roberto had been scouring the ocean floor for her mother’s blue diamond, her birthright. By some miracle, Roberto had managed to find the necklace. Just as they were about to surface, a diver came out of nowhere and stabbed him. Her eyelids flew open in shocked horror.

“Roberto!” Dominique screamed, her voice a nasally squeak. “My diving partner? Is he here? Roberto Carvalho?”

The nurse’s expression softened. “I’m sorry, Ms. St. John. You were the only patient brought in by emergency helicopter. You’re at the Honolulu clinic.”

Dear God. Killer sharks had been thrashing toward Roberto, jaws chomping. The words came out in a strangled moan. “The owner of the charter? Is he here?”

The nurse shook her head. “But there is someone anxious to speak to you.”

And that’s when Dominique spotted him, framing the doorway to the small room. He’d survived the shark attack. His name caught in her throat. “Roberto! You’re alive! How…”

He strutted toward her, his narrow hips swaggering as he closed in on her, stirring her blood with a primal lust she had never felt. And those dark, broody eyes, so alive with passion, like fiery comets.

He loomed above her, his lips pinched into a thin line. “I’m sorry, Ms. St. John, but I am not Roberto. He flashed a badge. “I am Detective Oliver Carvalho, Honolulu PD, Homicide. Roberto Carvalho was my identical twin brother.”

PURCHASE HERE

Sharon continues to make slow but steady progress.  you can read updates in the sidebar on the right and if you would like to send a card or personal message, just email me at Lyn@hywelalyn.co.uk and I'll let you have the address you can send it to.

Thanks for your continued prayers.  They are making a difference

Wednesday Spotlight with Rachel Brimble

Hello and welcome to Wednesday Spotlight!

My guest today is Rachel Brimble. Rachel and I are sitting in the lily garden on this lovely summer day, chatting about her book

GETTING IT RIGHT THIS TIME

Sipping on a glass of perfectly chilled chardonnay at the umbrella table where Oliver has arranged a lovely vase of lilies,
Sharon waits for Rachel on the teakwood patio. Surrounded by a geometric sunken pool, cascading waterfall, lily pond and English rock garden, it’s a garden of paradise. Chaise longues with splashy colorful cushions encompassed the pool, and just beyond, fragrant eucalyptus trees landscape the lily arbor. Shrouded by lush evergreens, a Javanese bench offers a shady respite from the heat.  She by Elvis Costello softly plays in the background.

Oliver escorts Rachel onto the patio. Sharon hugs her guest and they make themselves comfortable while Oliver struts off to get refreshments, pumping his biceps.

Sharon: Hello, Rachel, how are you on this lovely summer day?

Rachel: Absolutely wonderful! Especially to be sitting in such a beautiful setting. I don’t know how you manage it.

Sharon: Thank you. While we wait for Oliver to bring out appetizers and cocktails, tell us about the setting of your book. I understand it’s in the UK.

Rachel: It is. Even though I write for the American market, I am British and have lived in South West England my entire life so all my books are set in the UK – which my readers seem to really like. This book is set in the fictional city of Foxton which is loosely based around my birthplace of Bristol. I tend to use real British places in my mind, but always give them fictional names to keep me out of trouble, lol! ; )

Oliver materializes, balancing a bottle of chardonnay and a platter of mini bruschettas above his head. Singing along to She, loudly and quite off key, he pours the wine in a glass and sets in front of Rachel, wildly winking. Plucking up a bite-size bruschetta, he plops it into her mouth, offering a bone-melting smile.

Rachel: Well, aren’t you just the charmer, Oliver? She smiles after savoring the tongue-tingling flavors of the bruschetta. Is he always this attentive to your guests, Sharon? Laughs.

Sharon: He kills himself trying.

With great ceremony, Oliver arranges cocktail plates and napkins.  Frowning, Sharon glares at her empty glass. Ignoring her, Oliver refills Rachel’s glass, madly winking the whole time.

Sharon: Do you have something in your eye, Oliver? Never mind, I’ll just pour my own wine. Run along, I’m sure you have things to do.  So, Rachel, do tell how the hero and heroine get it right this time.

Rachel: With a lot of problems in between! They overcome their own personal issues to make their relationship work but also find a way for both of them to be happy bearing in mind their totally different lives before they were reunited.

Kate is a widow, dedicated to the happiness of her child – Mark is a theatrical agent travelling all over the world for his rich and successful clients. But when love is the ultimate goal, anything is possible and these two work it out in a wonderfully united way.

Sharon As most of our fair ladies, I’m  dying to know what makes Mark Johnston, rumored by UK tabloids to be  one of their most eligible bachelors, Mr. Right for Kate?

Rachel: He’s always wanted her but when they knew each other before he was not the man he is today. Once laid-back, shy and happy to watch from afar, when his best friend disappeared half way around the world with Kate, the woman he loved, Mark changed. Now confident, determined and driven, he is exciting and masculine yet incredibly caring and considerate. It is a lethal combination and for Kate whose child looks at Mark like he’s the world, it is pretty damn hard not to accept he is her destiny.

Sharon: Sounds fabulous. Do you read tabloids, and if so, are you apt to believe it or not?

Rachel: I very rarely read tabloids or newspapers in general – there have been so many stories proven wrong over the years, so much unnecessary destruction to people and their families, that I tend to avoid them. Which is why I enjoyed writing the tabloid journalist so much in Getting It Right This Time. He’s a nasty, nasty piece of work!

Sharon: Good for you. Aside from drop dead gorgeous and a bod brimming with raw sexual energy, cause that’s a give in, grin, what character trait would be most attractive to you?

Rachel: I love vulnerability in a man, an easy way that they are able to laugh at themselves. I don’t like the serious, macho type at all. A man with an easy smile and easy laughter will get to me every time!

Oliver appears, pushing a caddy with coffee, mint ice tea and a decadent strawberry cheese cake. With the pizzazz of a French chef, he slices a huge hunk and feeds a bite to Rachel. As an after thought, he cuts a tiny smidgen for Sharon, muttering something about her putting on a few. Sharon shoots him a look to kill, turns to Rachel, beaming ever so brilliantly. Good help is so hard to find.

Rachel: He is certainly a character, isn’t he? He must really enjoy the attention of all the female romance writers you have come visit, lol!

Sharon: He’s one in a million.

A few minutes later, Oliver  struts out in his lime green Speedos and sunglasses, grinning broadly as he makes a beeline to the pool, James Bond martini in one hand, a hot off the press copy of Getting It Right This Time in the other.  Winks at Sharon." I’m through working for the day, boss lady, time to work on my tan whilst sitting poolside. I can’t wait to read Rachel’s book." Graces her with his most dazzling smile. "If I might so boldly have the honor of your autograph, love?"

Rachel: Laughs. Well, of course, Oliver. Why don’t you dive in and have a few lengths while I get to it. You look as though you need to cool off…

Sharon: Sadly, Rachel, this brings us to the end of our interview. Before we change into our bathing suits, my hobby is collecting legends and superstitions from my guests. Can you share one with me?

Rachel: There is a legend that back in the eighteenth century, an area not far from where I live called Cherill, was prone to highwaymen…with a difference. They would surprise their intended victims absolutely naked! They would approach the carriage and take as much as they could carry, with the knowledge that they would be harder to recognize with no clothing to speak of.

Not that I’m entirely convinced, they couldn’t have been identified in other ways…

Sharon: I love it! Where can readers buy this book and get in touch with you?

Rachel: Here is the buy link and all my links – I LOVE hearing from readers so please do not hesitate to contact me anytime.

http://www.lyricalpress.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3_25&products_id=296

http://www.rachelbrimble.com/

http://www.rachelbrimble.blogspot.com/

www.twitter.com/rachelbrimble

Sharon: Thank you, and thank you for a delightful interview. Best of luck with Getting It Right This Time, m’dear. While we take a dip in the pool, we’ll leave readers with a teaser, shall we.

Blurb

She's back, but this time she’s a mother…intent on protecting her young.

Two years after her husband’s death, Kate Marshall returns home seeking security and stability for her three-year-old daughter. But when her path crosses with ‘the one who got away’…her husband’s best friend, she has to fight the desire to be with him for the sake of further heartbreak for her and her daughter.

A tough, straight talking theatrical agent, Mark Johnston is dangerously handsome, exceedingly rich, irresistibly charming – and branded by the tabloids as one of the UK’s most eligible bachelors. So even though Mark lost the girl of his dreams to his best friend, he finds no hardship in being single. Or so he thought.

Determined not to lose her a second time, Mark has to find a way to convince her they can work.  But can Kate cope with the media interest and ruthless, money-hungry clients surrounding him, being anywhere near her daughter?  Or accept that Mark Johnston is really the family man he claims to be?

Excerpt

Kate pushed open the door on the salon and cursed the jingling bell announcing her arrival. No doubt Jo was ready to kill her. She took three steps inside when Jo shot out the back room, lunged forward with the panache of an Olympic gymnast and grabbed Kate’s upper arms.

“He came back!” she cried.

“What? Who?” Kate stared at her, completely bewildered by the look of pure ecstasy on her assistant’s face.

“Sexy Mark Johnston.”

A rush of heat surged over Kate’s body--only to be replaced with ice-cold perspiration bursting onto her upper lip. “What? Why?”

Jo squealed and clapped her hands together. “He brought you something.”

“He…”

Kate’s echo died on her lips when Jo dragged her over to the payment counter. “Look!”

Pale pink ribbons were tied around the handles of the biscuit-colored picnic basket and a wide pink and white gingham ribbon circled its center. Both of the dual lids were ajar, one revealing a dozen pink carnations, the other a bottle of white wine so chilled the perspiration slid in occasional rivulets down its neck.

“Why would he do this?” Kate whispered, taking another step closer as a smile tugged at her lips.

She smoothed her hand over the surface of one of the handles and inhaled the aroma of freshly baked bread seeping from inside. Her stolen Weightwatcher lunch groaned inside her stomach.

“Open it. Open it,” Jo said, bouncing from one foot to the other.

“Oh, for goodness sake,” Kate huffed, yet dismally failing to curb her stupidly insistent grin.

Sighing theatrically, she lifted one of the lids and her breath caught. He’d bought her favorite granary bread, along with delicate slices of Parma ham and a thick wedge of creamy brie. Tears stung at her eyes, and she swallowed the ball of emotion in her throat.

“Oh, Mark.” She said the words on an exhalation as she carefully lifted a crisp white napkin to reveal two of the most delectable mini strawberry and fresh cream tarts she’d ever seen. Her absolute weakness.

She slowly closed the lid and re-arranged her expression into what she hoped was careless nonchalance before turning around. “When did he leave?”

“About ten minutes ago,” Jo said breathlessly. “Can you believe this? Isn’t it lovely?”

“What did he say?”

Her assistant frowned. “Aren’t you happy? Don’t you think it’s romantic?”

“Jo, focus. What did he say?”

Her blue eyes clouded, clearly displaying her disproval of Kate’s seemingly unappreciative response to such a thoughtful gesture. Kate smiled inwardly, knowing full well she’d be the topic of conversation between Jo and her friends at the wine bar later. Finally averting her gaze, Jo feigned interest in the bottles of lotion lining the shelves behind the counter.

“He said he was sorry he’d missed you and put that basket on the counter and then asked if he could borrow a pen and some paper.”

Kate stared at her turned back. “What for?”

She swiveled round. “To write you a note. The guy is obviously love-struck and you’re standing there as though he looks like Shrek after a mud-bath.”

Author Roast and Toast

Looking for Oliver and I? Well, it's Friday, so we are hosting over at the Author Roast and Toast. And it's a beach party with Sara Humphreys. Come on over and join the fun!

http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com/

Author Roast and Toast is back from Holiday Break

And it's a Medieval Banquet with Rachel Rossano! Come one, come all for a banquet fit for a king. Join Oliver and I, along with Lyn, Mary, Junior and Cuddles for another adventure as we roast Rachel.
http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com

Wednesday Spotlight with Lori Graham

A harbor bell clanks in the distance, its lusty ring echoing as the trolley lifts for an incoming vessel. A gaggle of seagulls squawk high above the bluffs as the gleaming white yacht comes into view. With the sun reflecting on the crystal blue waters in a myriad of jewels and gemstones, the ship’s name, THE CRIMSON LORI, glistens like brilliant red rubies.

As the yacht docks in the marina, Lori Graham, Senior Editor of the Crimson Line of The Wild Rose Press steps out. Dressed in a crimson-red sundress, her blue diamond locket shimmers. Oliver, dressed as a cabana boy, rushes down to escort Lori to the private terrace overlooking the shores of the crystal blue waters.

He grins a roguish grin as he presents her with a bouquet of crimson roses. We meet again, Lori. Might I add how dazzling you look in your sparkling blue diamond. How thrilled we are to have you join us at the private yacht club for lunch. Sharon has already arrived and is seated on the teakwood terrace.

Lori: I couldn’t be happier to be here, my dear, and always enjoy my time with you both.

With its teakwood furniture and complementing accents, the terrace boasts a tropical island atmosphere. Chaise lounges with splashy cushions encompass the turquoise swimming pool, and just beyond, thriving eucalyptus plants and festive flowers landscape the border.

Sharon stands to greet her editor. They exchange brief hugs and sink into the comfortable cushions of their highback wicker chairs surrounding the umbrella table. Calypso music plays in the background and Oliver hums along, off key. Still grinning, he stands before them, at the ready, pencil poised above his notepad. May I start you ladies with cocktails? A tropical drink from the bar or some mint tea, perhaps?

Lori: A nice raspberry tea would be nice to start, my dear fellow. The fun stuff will come later.

Sharon: A mint tea…with lots of ice!

Oliver: I’ll be back in a flash. He saunters off, swaying his hips to the music.

Sharon: Well, I must tell you, Lori. I am very excited about the new submission call out from the Crimson line of The Wild Rose Press. Tell us all about Jewels of the Night and how you came up with this dazzling theme?

Lori: Actually, I can’t take all of the credit for this submission idea. I had input from the other crimson editors (Johanna, Julie, Laura and Anne) as well as the owner of Once Upon A Romance, Connie. We bounced a couple of ideas around and through it Jewels of the Night was born.
Our thought process was to create something as a central piece that had multiple venues in which it could be used. Now to be honest, I first thought of a contest but you know what…I would much rather sit here with you and Oliver. So, at random, we will choose one of the contracted pieces to receive the special “prize.”

So to submit, write the manuscript featuring the blue diamond in a 20-65,000 word format. Once you have it done, send a query and synopsis to me at lori (at) thewildrosepress.com.

Sharon: Jewels of the Night drew me in at once because to me, the blue diamond conjures up so many images. Danger, ice and fire all rolled up in one. And without giving away the location of my setting or the storyline, let’s just say my story has already taken off. What image comes to mind when you think of a blue diamond?

Lori: I have to tell you that this submission has so many different options that no one image comes to mind. These submissions could be set in any locale and could involve treasure hunts, or family inheritance, or… The options are just endless. The diamond speaks for itself. What does any woman love more than a diamond? I do have to admit that I chose the blue diamond because I think they are exotic and gorgeous.

Oliver places the drinks on fancy cocktail napkins. And are we ready to order? Our house starters include either a cup of lobster bisque --or a tropical salad of wild Pacific greens, pineapple, mango and papaya, both served in coconut shells.

Lori: Absolutely the salad

Sharon: The tropical salad sounds delicious.

Oliver: And today’s entrée is either grilled salmon or your choice of tropical seafood kabobs or chicken kabobs, served with a tangy pineapple salsa and order of chips.

Lori: Chicken kabobs some wonderful, thanks

Sharon: Mmm. The seafood kabobs, please.

Oliver, playing the perfect cabana boy, plucks a fan from the table and fans Lori.

Lori: Just a little to the left, you sweetheart you…ahhh, that’s so much better.

Sharon: All right, cabana boy, about our meals?

Lori: Spoilsport

Oliver leaves, still singing.

Sharon: One lucky submission will be chosen at random to launch the Jewels of the Night series. And it will receive a premium publicity spot for the month of November. For those readers not familiar with The Wild Rose Press, can you explain the reasoning for the November time slot?

Lori: November is the month that Crimson Rose is featured so it just makes sense to kick off the month with something this fun.

Sharon: And can you entice us with some of the publicity the selected contract will receive:

Lori: Would love to…they will receive the lead-off spot with a guaranteed publish date in November 2010. That in itself is a great thing. Then in addition, we will give them an advertising banner to use in their PR. In addition, they will receive a featured review and interview with Once Upon A Romance where they will be able to display their banner for thirty days for free.

Oliver presents the salads, sprinkling each with just the perfect amount of house dressing.

Sharon: Thank you, Oliver. Simply perfect. And, Lori, here is my question. The guidelines request a word count between 20-60,000 words. Once the contract is chosen to launch the series, can the stories that come in later be longer in length?

Lori: You know that is a good question; we hadn’t really talked about that. I’ll have to think about that when I don’t have Oliver standing over there diverting my thoughts. One thing I do want to mention though is that the submission deadline is March 31st. Only manuscripts received before this date will be considered for the special prize. However, we will continue to accept submissions even after this date so please don’t worry that we’ll turn anyone away. J

Sharon: When I wear my blue diamond, I am always surprised how many people have never heard of this stone. Have you found this to be true?

Lori: I agree. Most people tend to just think the normal diamond. They don’t realize how many colors they come in from yellow to blue to pink and so on.

Oliver appears with the chosen cuisine, a fragrant mist of tangy spices filling the air. Then he refills the drinks, casting a wink to Lori.

Sharon: I think the appeal of this series is the undercurrent of danger, intrigue and romance. There are so many ways for the imagination to go with it. Cool ice, hot fire and you have the ingredients for a spicy blend for a barrage of storylines. And you give such a wide spectrum with the location and time period. Here’s another question that comes to mind. The Crimson line is the suspense line of The Wild Rose Press, romantic suspense and mystery. When I write suspense, I prefer to write in present day, but that’s just my personal preference. What about an author who writes in the paranormal or historical or inspirational line from a different era? Do these genres fit into the Crimson line if the storyline deals with a high level of suspense?

Lori: This will fall under the same guidelines as any other manuscripts coming in. The focus needs to be on the suspense (after the romance, of course). Now that isn’t to say there can’t be a little paranormal in it. For example, your heroine could be a psychic. That would be okay. Historical and inspirational get a little trickier because those lines aren’t quite as broad. I have no problem with the character being a Christian so that isn’t a problem. However, if their Christianity is a big part of the story, it would probably be a better fit in White Rose so that it gets the exposure it requires.

I wasn’t asking you to take your shirt off, Oliver. I was talking about sales of a book. Oh my, it is getting warm. Anyway, I don’t want to discourage that but it does make it something I would need to look a little closer at. If anyone has a question, they are always welcome to email me and share more of their specific idea and I would be happy to give them an opinion.

Sharon: The only other submission call in the Crimson line I’m aware of is the Men in Uniform series. Is it difficult to come up with a new theme each November?

Lori: Well, we really don’t have a set time to come up with new themes. It is just when the muse hits us. We do like to come up with something interesting for our featured month to really draw attention to the fabulous writers we have within our line.

Sharon: The deadline for submission for Jewels of the Night is March 31, 2010. As an editor, do you feel placing a specific deadline on a project helps or hinders the creative muse?

Lori: Both. Some authors need that to get down to business while others feel pressured. That is why we will take the submission no matter when it comes in. It is only the extra goodies that require the deadline. The reason for that is the publication date in November. Even with ending it in March, the editing staff will have to work hard to get it ready by November. (I may have to borrow Oliver from you during that time to keep the editors fed and happy.)

Oliver grins and takes a sweeping bow.

Sharon: Well, here comes Oliver with dessert. And while we’re enjoying the delectable treat with some premium tea or coffee, let’s give the readers a chance to question you about Jewels of the Night. Thank you so very much for joining me today, Lori. It’s been a delight.

Lori: It is always a joy to join the both of you. I always have a good time and leave here very satisfied. Oliver, oh Oliver…

Oliver swaggers out, balancing chocolate mousse dribbled with rum sauce on a silver tray above his head. With a sweeping bow, he serves the dessert. After setting down carafes of coffee and tea, he plucks up a ukulele and serenades Lori with a stringed instrumental of Crimson and Clover. In love again, Oliver stands there, stunned speechless after his performance. Blowing kisses to Lori, the gaping, still mute Oliver sighs and disappears into the cabana, his heart all a flutter.

Lori: Sharon, you certainly do know how to pick them, my friend. (Sighs)

The Author Roast and Toast

As you know, every Friday, Oliver and I, along with Hywela Lyn and Mary Ricksen host a roast at:
http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com

Today's featured guest is Beth Trissel. Please come by for a murder in the mansion!

AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST

COMING SOON TO A BLOG NEAR YOU!

Get yourselves a big tub of buttered popcorn and get ready to scream with laughter! I have exciting news for authors looking for a new and zany way to promote new releases. Remember the Book Roast? Well, sadly, they closed their doors a few months back. But never fear, four friends and myself have decided to reincarnate it under a new name. You are cordially invited to attend the Grand Opening!

PLACE: http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com

DATE: AUGUST 28, 2009

TIME: 9 AM TO 4 PM

DEBUT AUTHOR ROASTEE: DANIELLE THORNE

TYPE OF ROAST: IT’S ZAYNY! IT’S UNIQUE! IT’S THE AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST!

WHAT TO EXPECT:

FIVE HOSTESSES TO ENTERTAIN YOU!
A SEXY AND FLIRTATIOUS CYBER BUTLER TO SERVE COCKTAILS!
LEMONADE WITH A DASH OF SOUTHERN-STYLE RECIPE!
HERBS FOR EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN!
TWO CUTE AND CUDDLY MASCOTS!

RULES: COME READ THEM AT THE BLOG!
WHO SET THEM? WHY OLIVER, OF COURSE! COME MEET HIM AND JOIN THE FUN!

STAY TUNED FOR COMING ATTRACTIONS! COME ONE COME ALL!

PERMISSION TO FORWARD.

Wednesday Spotlight with Karenne and the CTR crew

Hello and welcome to Wednesday Spotlight! We all love getting those glowing reviews, winning those fun contests, and chatting it up, right? Today I have a special treat. I am pleased to have Karenne and her crew from Coffee Time Romance & More to chat with us! Karenne has rounded up some of her best staff members and they will be here all day to answer any questions you have. Don’t look now but here they come soaring through space in a coffee mug! Let’s give Karenne and her crew a warm welcome!

Thunderous applause explodes through cyber space as the coffee cup makes a smooth landing on stage, bright lights twinkling in a kaleidoscope of crimson, burnt orange and amber. Karenne steps out, followed by her amazing crew. They wave madly at their adoring fans. Sharon greets the crew with warm cyber hugs. Welcome! It’s a pleasure to have you as my guests today! Make yourselves comfortable on the deck and my butler Oliver will be right out with refreshments. But first, here is a little about the crew:

KARENNE
Hmm, well I am the pushy broad who makes my staff miserable! Lol I am known as the ‘nag-a-nator’. As for personally, I am a SAHM who homeschools her kidos, runs a local childrens’ organization, loves to read, and plays at being a chef!

DELANE
Hi Sharon,
I am a reviewer with Coffee Time Romance part time and full time I am an 18 year
member of the armed forces. I have been with Coffee Time for almost a year and I
love to read. I have been reading since I was a child; the library and book mobile
were my best friends. I am a mother of 5 children; we are truly a his, mine, and
ours family. My oldest two son's now serve their country and my three youngest
are still at home with us. I look forward to answering any questions that come my
way.

KIMBERLY
Hi, I am Kimberly. I am a reviewer with Coffee Time. I am also the Contest Coordinator.
I have been here for a little over a year now.
The reviewing is easy to understand. The contest coordinating involves scheduling
and writing the contests plus monitoring the entries. It is a lot of fun. I'm kind
of a organizational freak so it suits me!!
I have been married to my knight in tarnished armour for almost 16 years. We have
five furbabies and live in Northeastern Oklahoma.

DANIELLE
Hi Sharon, thanks for having us. Your personality is amazing! Let me tell you a little
about
Myself and then get to my duties at CTR. I met my husband in High School but didn’t
Actually start dating him until after we graduated. The sweetest thing is that the
first time he
Saw me he went home and told his mother that he found the woman he was going to marry.
You can actually read our love story on my CTR webpage, it is pretty spectacular.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/Reviewers/Danielle.html
. Anyway, my hubby and I got
Married when I was 20 and have now been married for 11 years. We have 2 children.
Our
Son is 9 going on 10 and our daughter is 8 going on 16. LOL. We live in Northern
Michigan
Where there are 3 season. Fall, Winter, and Construction. The only other notable
thing
About me is my father was in the Air Force. I was born in London, England. We then
Moved to Lubbock, TX then to Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, then to Plattsburgh,
NY.
After my parents divorced my mother and my siblings and I moved to Northern Michigan
Where I have been ever since. I have been to 13 different schools and married a man
Who lived in the same house and went to the same school his whole life. How ironic
is that?
----->My biggest job at Coffee Time Romance is doing book reviews. I do both Ebooks
And print. If it is via Ebook, I use my trusty Ebookwise 1150 to hilight any key
Points within the storyline that may be important for my review. If it is print,
I use a good old fashioned yellow hilighter lol. When I actually do the book reviews,
I try my hardest to be fair and not judge based on whether I like the genre itself
Or not. Instead, I focus on how an author writes, is the story told smoothly, and
Whether it comes together at the end or not. Now, by coming together let me stress
I don't necessarily mean as in a HEA (happy ever after) ending. I have read books
That has a HUGE cliffhanger but I give it a rave review because it just fits. The
Reviews I like best are when I have to read a novel whose genre is something I don't
Care for, and then I find myself loving the story. To me THAT is a great author and
What a spectacular writer should be.
----->Another job I have at CTR is doing author interviews. I just started back in
January and quickly got over my nervousness and butterfly stomach lol. I have to
Say that being able to read an author's book before I do the interview is a HUGE
Plus. And not just because I love to read, but because it does give me some insight
Into their work and how they put a story together. Once I have finished the novel,
I try to shell out between 10 and 15 questions about their book and the life they
Lead in general. Then I send it to them to answer and wait for a reply. Reading the
Answers to my questions is always fun because then you get to see their true personality
Come through. I remember my very first interview was an author whose book was very
Graphic and bloody but her interview was very refreshing and fun to do. It shocked
Me because I assumed that her writing style for the interview would be the same as
Her novel.
----->As you can tell by now, I love to talk. It comes from being the middle child
In a family where everyone is loud lol. One of my favorite jobs is when we do the
Book Brew for the Coffee Crew. This month it was contemporary and next month it is
Erotica. As readers, we get to blog all day about what our favorite books are, even
If they are ones we did not review. This is done the first Monday of each month and
I have to say it keeps my obsession with books fed; especially when I see books that
I haven't heard of that sound really great. Here is the website in case you or anyone
Else is interested:
http://coffeetimeromance.com/CoffeeThoughts/

HOLLIE
Hollie is a mother of 4 beautiful and active children (5 if you count The Smurf...a/k/a
the husband) who works part time in the local primary school. As a member of Coffee
Time Romance & More’s Coffee Crew, Hollie spends her free time reviewing books, interviewing
authors, chatting with other book lovers, and is the Coffee Write Coordinator. Coffee
Write is her new passion which is a wonderful area with a new monthly story that
changes daily with people who introduce their spin and change the story line.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/forumdisplay.php?f=255

SABRINA
My name is Sabrina and I am the Live Chat Coordinator, Which means I schedule all
the authors who chat with us on Tuesday nights @ 9 PM EST. If you haven’t been to
a live chat, you should give it a shot- we like to have fun in there (bats eyes innocently).
I also help out moderating the forums with an amazing group of ladies. I joined Coffee
Time Romance & More two years ago and have been helping out for about a year and
a half. My favorite part of Coffee Time is interacting with the authors, watching
new authors rise and established authors progress.

CHEROKEE
I am a reviewer at Coffee Time Romance. I get to read books and review them. This
is something that I love doing. I also do interviews at times, too. I love being
a part of Coffee Time Romance. The people are super nice and it is like a huge loving
family. (A lot of the reviewers say Karenne keeps them locked in the basement, but
they must be really secretly hid, because I have found no locked basements. Karenne,
is a super cool person and I enjoy working with her.)

BRENDA
Hi Sharon,
I was born and raised in Texas with a short excursion to the state of Washington.
After graduating from high school and testing the college waters, I joined the Army.
I was in the Women's Army Corps (WAC) in Alabama until I was accepted for Officer
Candidate School. I was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the last WAC Officer
Basic Class. I served at Fort Devens, Massachusetts until the Army started to do
away with the WAC. I was then assigned to Fort Carson, Colorado as a Military Police
officer. While there I served as the first female on Fort Carson to serve as a Company
Commander of a unit containing both women and men. It was the 19th MP Company.
I served in Pirmasens, Germany as the first female Provost Marshal. I left active
duty after serving at Fort Irwin, California and moved back to Texas where 8 years
later, I retired from the Army Reserve. I also worked in Adult Probation and Corrections.
I've never married and have no children. I do have 2 brothers, 1 step-brother, and
1 step-sister. I'm living with Multiple Sclerosis on a ranch and enjoying my 3 dogs,
5 cats, my friends and my garden.
Books are my addiction. I've loved to read since I was in grade school.

MAURA
Hi Sharon,
I am Maura and I have been with Coffee Time as a reviewer for a little less than
four years.
I am married with no children but have three dogs who I train for competitive obedience.
I have been a Deputy Sheriff for twenty years, have a Bachelors degree from Cortland
State and a Masters from NYU, both in psychology.
I am a voracious reader and just love my part time (lol) job as a reviewer.
I live on Long Island way out on the North Fork among the beaches and wineries, which
go great with books.

Sharon: Well there you have it folks, a nice introduction from each of my guests from Coffee Time Romance & More. Now that we’re all settled on our tiki chairs on the terrace overlooking the beach, allow me to ring for my butler/cabana boy. Oh Oliver, come on out. We’re ready for cocktails!

Oliver soars through the rippling waves on his surf board, winking wildly at the ladies. Dressed in his spanking new fluorescent canary yellow speedos, he pumps his grapefruit-size biceps. Ladies, ladies. I’m here to please. May I get y’all a cocktail?

Karenne: (slaps Oliver on the butt) Coffee

Danielle: Hi Oliver. You are as handsome as Sharon said you were. Could you please
get me a Cranberry Soda with a splash of
Vodka please?

Delane: A corona with lime, please.

Kimberly: (Silence as she stares at the gorgeous Oliver) Uh, did you say something? I think an ice cold glass of pink lemonade will work just fine for me. Whew… he is a hot one… I mean, the weather, the weather is warm today!!

Hollie: oh yes please vodka and cranberry juice please

Sabrina: Lemon Drop Martini please

Sharon: Ah…Oliver…bring me a Bloody Mary, please!

Cherokee: Margarita' please

Brenda: Mocha frappachino.

Maura: Gin&Tonic

With a sweeping bow, Oliver appears, balancing a tray of drinks in one hand, snacks in the other. With a wicked wink, he places cocktail napkins down, the drinks and an assortment of snacks. Here we go ladies, popcorn, bridge mix, rippled potato chips and French onion dip made from onion soup, walker crisps, a fresh fruit tray of strawberries, grapes and melons, chocolate covered strawberries, Peanut Butter Cups and Goobers. Y’all just let me know when you need another cocktail and I’ll be right over. Oliver struts off singing, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.

Sharon: Well now, let’s have a toast. Raises her Bloody Mary to one and all. To Karenne and the staff at Coffee Time Romance & More. Here here! But suddenly FOOTLOOSE blasts over the speakers and Oliver grabs Danielle and takes her for a wild spin around the terrace. Come on hope ya got your dancin’ shoes on, darlin’. Let’s show ‘em how it’s done! Oliver shouts above the chorus of cheers, Everybody cut loose!! With one final spin, he grins broadly.

Danielle: Phew Oliver. You certainly know how to cut a rug don’t you?!

But then the song changes as the disco ball bathes Karenne in a kaleidoscope of flashing lights. Celebration blasts from the cyber speakers and Oliver grabs his partner. Put on those disco shoes, darlin’! He serenades her. Cel e brate good times…come on!! It’s a celebration! Come on!

Karenne: Love Disco! (dances around the beach singing loudly and off key)

Once more the song changes to a favorite punk rock by Bon Jovi. Grinning and clapping his hands, Oliver grabs Sabrina for a spin. Puffing out his chest, he belts it out, It’s my Life!! He struts his stuff, pumping his biceps at Sabrina.

Sabrina: Sabrina: Is trying to be polite and not drool while Oliver is working the floor.
But feels really light headed

But then the music changes to a slower beat and the sound track from Across the Universe blasts. Oliver takes Delane by the hand and pulls her close as he sings in her ear the words to Let It Be. Thunderous applause explodes as Oliver gives a sweeping bow and escorts Delane to her chair. He winks and asks Did I sing it as well as Tim?

Delane: Wow what a knee weakening serenade. You are so talented Oliver (sigh).

Then the music pulsates to a wild beat and Oliver appears with a guitar. He grabs Sharon and yanks her on the bar. They rock it to Walk This Way by Aerosmith. Oliver belts out the lyrics All started with a little kiss…like this…walk this way. The song ends and he plants a big one on Sharon’s lips, blowing kisses to his adoring CTR fans! Ladies, ladies, who wants to be next! Oliver can rock it all night long!

Sharon: Whoo hooo that’s why I hired him!

But then, quick as a wink, Oliver snatches up his trumpet and plays along to the smooth sound of jazz by Chris Botti. And when When I fall in Love comes on, he grabs Kimberly, pulls her close and serenades her. When I fall in love…it will be forever. Then he gives a wild wink to the girls.

Kimberly Ah, a man who can appreciate some of the finer things in life, a slow song, a soft woman and a beautiful day in paradise. I may never leave.

But then a dramatic hush comes across cyber space as Oliver appears in a puff of blue smoke. The thundering organ grinds to The Phantom of the Opera. After a stellar performance, he grabs Hollie, dips her in grand style and does the Foxtrot with her, gazing into her eyes. When the song is over, he kisses her hand and winks. A little bird told me you used to love musicals and classical before the kids.

Hollie: oh my favorite *swoons in traditional English style

Oliver plucks up a white Stetson and plops it on his head. Swaggering his hips, he struts over to Cherokee, casting her a wicked wink. With a devilish smile, he croons it out to George Strait’s Amarillo by Morning. When the song ends, he lassoes her to his chest and bestows his Stetson on her head.

Cherokee: Oh, be still my heart, I think I may be falling in love…

And when 40 Cups of Coffee by Tennessee Ernie Ford blasts on the speaker, Oliver is sweeping Brenda off her feet, twirling and swirling her around with his fancy footwork before pulling her close. And when the song ends, he gazes into her eyes and winks.

Brenda: You Casanova you! What a flirt!

And when the beat pulsates to What I Like About You by the Romantics, Oliver grabs Maura out of her seat and shimmies down, grinning from ear to ear. He pulls her close and whispers in her ear, “Never wanna let you go, make me feel all right!” He ends the song with a wicked wink.

Maura: “After dancing to that song, especially with Oliver who can catch their breath
enough to talk!”

Oliver takes a sweeping bow. Hope y’all enjoyed the music. There’s plenty of cocktails and snacks and we still have dessert.

Sharon: Thank you, Oliver. Now it’s time for the panel of questions. I’ll present three questions. Answer the best you can…and remember. A prize from Bath & Body will be given to the best voted answer by the bloggers. And by the same token, a prize will be given to the best question a blogger asks. Now with no further ado, here they are:

Question Number One: While working at CTR, what is the zaniest event you can remember?

Question Number Two: Who would you like to see jump out of a cake on your birthday and why?

Question Number Three: If you could star in any literary fiction, which would it be and why would you want to be cast in this role?

And for the answers:

Karenne: hmmm, zaniest event…I think it the zaniest events are the eLoop chats on our Erotic Yahoo Group. With erotic authors and readers all talking about sex, books, and prizes, we go nuts! I also love the Latte Lounge events when we get tons of authors in there gabbing back and forth. I love to laugh.

Danielle: Oh boy, the zaniest event I can remember huh? Hold on, this splash of Vodka
has clouded my brain. Oh now I remember. Hollie mentioned earlier that she is the
coordinator for the Coffee Write. Well I like to participate but I don’t consider
myself much of a writer, so I try to cover it up with humor. I wrote a scene where
this girl was trying to get out of sleeping with this man and she suddenly found
this…ahem…sex toy that she used as a pretend knife. I laughed the whole time but
I don’t think the other writers appreciated my sense of humor. The one person I would
love to see jump out of a cake would have to be my all time favorite sexy hero, Hugh
Jackman. As for why, HELLO honey, he is HOT!! Has anyone ever read Sherrilyn
Kenyon’s Hunter novels? I always expect a huge yes and am surprised when people actually
haven’t read them lol. I would love to play Bride from Night Play. Not only was she
plus size, but she could kick some major butt! What more could you ask for a perfect
heroine than a woman who didn’t fit the typical stereotype when it comes to being
pretty bad *ss! Plus she gets to sleep with Vane! Wow baby! LOL.

Kimberly I think the zaniest event would have been my introduction to the Coffee Crew. I thought I would just review books and meet some people in cyberspace. All of a sudden… BOOM, my inbox was filled with some of the most outrageous comments and welcomes. Once I got done laughing and being anxious, I settled in for a long stay. (She blushes and adds) Now I’m the one with some of the outrageous welcomes. My birthday cake… I probably should say my husband, right? That is the correct answer! (looks over her shoulder) But he’s nowhere to be found…Colin Farrell. He’s a sexy Irish bad boy who knows how to have fun. As for a star of literary fiction… hmm… you are going to make me think on that one. Ooh, I got it, Lady Arwen from the Lord of the Rings books. She is so beautiful and kind, yet willing to sacrifice herself for love. To me, it is one of the greatest love stories of all time.

Delane:

The zaniest thing about our outstanding group is the crazy emails that go around. I love how everyone feels free to mention how scared we are of the Mistress beating us or some other crazy punishment. (Sorry mistress, please forgive me)

Oh Lord. Okay the politically correct answer would be my husband but (in a whisper with a wink) I would really love to see a cross between a biker and a cowboy with twinkling blue eyes, long jet black hair, 6’4, muscles everywhere and now I need to stop because well anyway. Can I have one of him, two if you can find them? TWINS! Pretty Please!! (I hope my Mom doesn’t see this, she thinks I am a good girl which I am REALLY)

Okay wow; let’s see I would like to star in a light submissive role. I don’t need someone to tell me what to do outside of the bedroom; I can lead my own life, but in the bedroom a man that takes charge makes me want to GROWL!!! Oh yeah, and if it involved a shape shifter well I would just be in heaven.

Hollie: Zaniest event?? It has to be the Samhain spring showers we had last year on the forum, 4 weeks of nonstop posting. I’m just happy I could take part and didn’t have to juggle the moderating for such a huge event but we did have a lot of fun.

Honestly?? Any of the CTR staff I spend so many hours working with and around them but live too far away to ever get to meet them.

Adela MacAye Roberts is the first (or last) Celtic witch in Lyn Armstrong’s Celtic witch series. Not only does she have an amazing kilt clad Scottish Laird but she goes on to have two amazing children who also have amazing powers.

Sabrina: 1) Hands down, The Live from RT chat in 2008. It was a 4 hour pure crazy event. We
had an author with her lap top having everyone stop by and say hi to us outside the
vampire ball. We got to talk with cover models and amazing authors. Whew that was
fun!
2) If I had to pick anyone to jump out of my cake i think it would have to be Joaquin
Phoenix - Before his funky stage he's in now.
3) This is a hard question. I am going to have to go with Beth from J.R. Ward's
Dark Lover. Let's face it who wouldn't want to be the one who tames big bad Wrath.
mmm Yum!

Cherokee: 1), I am sorry, a zany event doesn’t pop into my head, even though I know there are some there kicking me in the head. I will say the days that Danielle is away, and unable to post, are not as fun as when she is among us. She has this enthusiastic energy around her that just explodes when she sends out a message on the boards, and it always makes my day a bit brighter. Without her posting, as well as Delane, Hollie, and some of the others, the events would be too quiet. I am just glad there are some Coffee Time Reviewers who know how to bring out the zany and bring on the smiles.
2) Please give me Johnny Depp to jump out of the cake…the man can take on any role and deliver one hundred percent. Have him jump from the cake then carry me off to some island where some great adventures will begin.
3)Not sure if this one will count, but the characters in Thelma and Louise…I would want to be Susan Sarandon, and Karenne to be Geena Davis…the only different thing is we certainly would not go driving off the cliff…we would be having a rip-roaring good time, and no doubt get in tons of trouble.

Brenda: 1) The zaniest event I ever attended was off line. Karenne and I attended a convention in Reno. Trying to find authors we wanted to meet and introduce Coffee Time at the same time; was an arch-falling, vericose-vein popping, marithon dash through a hotel whose square footage was at least football field size!
2) Sigh... Is the Marlboro Man still alive? He is hot! I doubt he’d jump out of the cake. He’d probably just reach over; grab me, and lay one on me. That’s all my heart could stand anyway.
3) One of my literary favorites is Robin D. Owens Sorceress of Faith. The heroine is Marian who has powers needed in the alternate world. Magic and flying horses just appeal to me. I think I would enjoy a visit to another world.

Maura:
Pretty much anything in this group can get a little zany.
Our daily emails make me laugh constantly and the Tuesday night live chats can get
very wild.
I just had a birthday and whoever jumps out of that cake would have to be agile and
jump high enough to dodge all those candles!
Elena from Kelley Armstrong’s Otherworld books; who wouldn’t like to be the only
female werewolf, her adventures… and Clayton.

Thank you ladies. I love your answers. Now who’s ready for dessert? Oh, Oliver, come on out with that scrumptious tray of treats.

Oliver swaggers out, wheeling a silver caddy filled with Strawberry and French Vanilla Pudding Cake, rhubarb crumble and custard, chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, caramel bars, cheese cake, pie and oatmeal cookies, tiramisu and steaming pots of coffee and tea. He presents his culinary delights with a devilish wink. And before it has a chance to melt, he rushes a huge dish of coffee ice cream to Brenda and feeds her the first spoonful. Hoots and whistles filter through the air. Oliver preens. Who wants a piece of ice cream cake? He unveils the decadent treat and cuts the first piece for Maura. Now y’all give a shout if you need anything else. It’s been a pleasure. Enjoy!

Sharon: Thank you, Oliver. That brings us to the end of another Wednesday Spotlight. What’s that Oliver? Oh, all right, I’ll ask them. Oliver blushes a deep crimson red. Sharon sighs and turns to her guests. Oliver is requesting that you leave him a coffee crew rating on his performance. It’s up to you, my friends, but if you wish to make Oliver’s day, he will treasure a coffee cup rating. Thank you all for joining me today on Wednesday Spotlight. It’s been a blast.

How many cups does Oliver deserve:
Karenne: (leers at Oliver up and down) sigh, he brings coffee and snacks and turns on the Disco as well as a Disco Ball…5 Cups
Danielle: Oliver honey. I will give you a 4 cup rating. Now now, don’t be upset.
I only give 5 cup ratings to men who do a little strip tease. LOL. I am kinky like
that!
Danielle: Thank you Sharon so much for having me. I loved the questions, your sense
of humor, and Oliver’s amazing dance skills. Now if I could just get him out of his
butler uniform, it would make things that much spicier!

Kimberly: 5 cups with sprinkles, whipped cream (fantasies about Oliver spring to mind), oops, sorry, lost my concentration, oh, and a cherry on top. Thank you, Sharon! This has been so much fun. (Kisses Oliver’s cheek) Thank you, Oliver.

Sabrina: 5 cups perfect!

Holly: With all these goodies and and the wonderful dancing I say defiantly 5 cups

Delane: 5 Cups for the outstanding serenade and cocktail service!!!

Cherokee: I would most certainly give Oliver a 5 cup rating. He is a gentleman by far and knows how to treat ladies, right! He rocks!
And thank you, Sharon, for this wonderful time that we were able to share with you. I adored your questions and your warm personality. You are simply wonderful!

Brenda: Thank you very much for the lovely evening. Oliver, you are a gem. I think you deserve 5 cups if only for the blush!

Maura: Thanks Sharon, Oliver definitely deserves five cups with whipped cream and caramel
on top!

The overwhelmed Oliver passes out cold, a big smile on his face!

Sharon: Well, ladies, you did it. You made cabana boy’s day! Thank you all so very much. Now, relax and party on. Here come the readers and bloggers to ask you questions. And as soon as we can get Oliver to come around, he’ll be at the ready to make more cocktails!