Those who know me or who have read my books know that I like irreverent one-liners, quirky characters and don't take myself too seriously. However, if you'll permit me just this once, I'm gonna get serious on you. It's Memorial Day and as an Army brat who is also the niece of a Veteran, that means a lot to me. Our country may not be perfect, but I believe that it's special and unique and I love America. I'm so grateful to those who've sacrificed to make the country what it is and to protect our ideology--the men and women in our military services, of course, but also those of us who worry about them when they're gone and try to send good thoughts, care packages and anything else we can think of to give them a little piece of home. My prayers are with all of you.
So, happy Memorial Day weekend to everyone and I promise, next time I blog, I'll bring the funny :-)
Monday, May 28, 2007
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Unhappy Endings
Anyone out there a Grey’s Anatomy fan? I am… or was. That last episode, the season finale, really bummed me out. Not one upbeat moment in the entire 75-minutes! And the behavior of some of the characters was totally uncharacteristic. Contrived, even. McDreamy turning down the offer of Chief of the hospital? Smart George, flunking his exam? Callie, named chief resident? Grey and McDreamy breaking up? Burke, canceling the wedding only seconds before the ceremony? Don’t even get me started on the Chief’s wife being pregnant with his baby when they’ve been separated all season!
Give me a break! I haven’t decided whether to tune in next season or not. And this is (was) my favorite show! (Notice all the exclamation points?! That means I’m rather... peeved about all this.)
The thing is, the writer(s) broke some cardinal rules. One is that viewers don’t like contrived situations, written in simply to add conflict. We feel cheated, and wonder just how dumb do the writers and producers think we are. The second is, we need at least something to hope for. Hopelessness does not sell, people!
The Grey’s Anatomy writers could learn a thing or three from romance novels and authors. Our genre guarantees an upbeat, or at least optimistic, ending. The stories grow out of the characters’ behaviors, not some forced plot contrivance that adds phony conflict.
Next year, when Grey’s Anatomy starts a new season, I just might pick up a romance novel instead.
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
Give me a break! I haven’t decided whether to tune in next season or not. And this is (was) my favorite show! (Notice all the exclamation points?! That means I’m rather... peeved about all this.)
The thing is, the writer(s) broke some cardinal rules. One is that viewers don’t like contrived situations, written in simply to add conflict. We feel cheated, and wonder just how dumb do the writers and producers think we are. The second is, we need at least something to hope for. Hopelessness does not sell, people!
The Grey’s Anatomy writers could learn a thing or three from romance novels and authors. Our genre guarantees an upbeat, or at least optimistic, ending. The stories grow out of the characters’ behaviors, not some forced plot contrivance that adds phony conflict.
Next year, when Grey’s Anatomy starts a new season, I just might pick up a romance novel instead.
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
Thursday, May 24, 2007
An Introduction
This is my first blog as a Harlequin American Romance author. I am so excited to be here, and to be one of this year’s debut authors. In a few weeks I’ll be shamelessly trolling the book stores, looking for sightings of The Man for Maggie. It’s a June release and yes, I’m counting the days!
A little about me. I’m not sure, but I might be the only Canadian American author. I am the product of a Canadian mother and an American father, with a huge network of aunts, uncles, and cousins that spans the border and both countries, coast to coast. No matter where I go, it always feels like home.
I live on Canada’s west coast, in a city with miles and miles of coastline, gorgeous beaches, beautiful gardens, and virtually snow-free winters. Really, it’s paradise, and I am so fortunate to be where I am.
I’ve read romance and dreamed about being a Harlequin author for what seems like forever. Finally started writing about eight years ago, and after six full-length manuscripts and four Golden Heart finals, here I am.
The Man for Maggie is a story about two very different characters, one who leaps without looking and another who has both feet firmly planted on the ground. Writing this book was a lot of fun, although not without its own ups and downs. It started as a short contemporary, was lengthened for American Romance, and then needed to be shortened again. Math was never my best subject but after all that adding and subtracting, I finally came up with the right answer! Two secondary characters from this book have a story of their own. With This Ring will be out in December.
Huge thanks to everyone at Harlequin American Romance for the warm welcome I’ve received. Can’t wait to meet all of you in Dallas!
Lee McKenzie
www.leemckenzie.com
www.WetNoodlePosse.com
A little about me. I’m not sure, but I might be the only Canadian American author. I am the product of a Canadian mother and an American father, with a huge network of aunts, uncles, and cousins that spans the border and both countries, coast to coast. No matter where I go, it always feels like home.
I live on Canada’s west coast, in a city with miles and miles of coastline, gorgeous beaches, beautiful gardens, and virtually snow-free winters. Really, it’s paradise, and I am so fortunate to be where I am.
I’ve read romance and dreamed about being a Harlequin author for what seems like forever. Finally started writing about eight years ago, and after six full-length manuscripts and four Golden Heart finals, here I am.
The Man for Maggie is a story about two very different characters, one who leaps without looking and another who has both feet firmly planted on the ground. Writing this book was a lot of fun, although not without its own ups and downs. It started as a short contemporary, was lengthened for American Romance, and then needed to be shortened again. Math was never my best subject but after all that adding and subtracting, I finally came up with the right answer! Two secondary characters from this book have a story of their own. With This Ring will be out in December.
Huge thanks to everyone at Harlequin American Romance for the warm welcome I’ve received. Can’t wait to meet all of you in Dallas!
Lee McKenzie
www.leemckenzie.com
www.WetNoodlePosse.com
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
The Best Kind of Review
Well, it's almost here. The release of His Only Wife, my first Harlequin American book. In — oh, my gosh — about two weeks. This is a pretty exciting and scary time for me. On the one hand, I can't wait to walk into stores and see my book (I'm hoping even grocery stores). On the other hand, I'm on pins and needles as the reviews start to come in.
So far, so good. I hope no one minds if I share a couple of snippets here:
"A sweet second chance at love story. Gage and Aubrey have a great deal of baggage that they must dig through in order to find that happy ending, and this story is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon."
Romantic Times
"This entertaining second chance at love is a fine contemporary tale starring two likable protagonists. Each of the lead pair carries plenty of emotional baggage making a permanent adult relationship seem unattainable. HIS ONLY WIFE is an pleasurable read."
The Best Reviews
Hmm, anyone besides me notice a similarity in the two reviews? Here's the review that means the most to me:
"It was the best Harlequin book I ever read!"
Cathy's Mom
Yes, my mom. Okay, I know, she's supposed to love my books. It goes with the territory of being a mom - unconditional support of your children. But she meant what she said. I could hear it in her voice, see it in her eyes. And I can't tell you how great that made me feel. I might be all grown up. My kids might be almost grown up and be having kids of their own in a few years. No matter how old I get, having my mother be proud of me is still really important and probably always will be.
Sappy, I know. I don't care. Hey, this is Harlequin American. We're allowed to be sappy. Maybe even encouraged!
Cathy McDavid
So far, so good. I hope no one minds if I share a couple of snippets here:
"A sweet second chance at love story. Gage and Aubrey have a great deal of baggage that they must dig through in order to find that happy ending, and this story is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon."
Romantic Times
"This entertaining second chance at love is a fine contemporary tale starring two likable protagonists. Each of the lead pair carries plenty of emotional baggage making a permanent adult relationship seem unattainable. HIS ONLY WIFE is an pleasurable read."
The Best Reviews
Hmm, anyone besides me notice a similarity in the two reviews? Here's the review that means the most to me:
"It was the best Harlequin book I ever read!"
Cathy's Mom
Yes, my mom. Okay, I know, she's supposed to love my books. It goes with the territory of being a mom - unconditional support of your children. But she meant what she said. I could hear it in her voice, see it in her eyes. And I can't tell you how great that made me feel. I might be all grown up. My kids might be almost grown up and be having kids of their own in a few years. No matter how old I get, having my mother be proud of me is still really important and probably always will be.
Sappy, I know. I don't care. Hey, this is Harlequin American. We're allowed to be sappy. Maybe even encouraged!
Cathy McDavid
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
FAMILY DAY AT THE GALLOWAY HOUSE
Back when my kids were small, people used to tell me to enjoy those days because the teenage years would be twice as hectic. I’m afraid I didn’t believe them. With two children born eighteen months apart, I’m afraid I spent a lot of their toddler years wishing for five minutes of peace and quiet.
Now I know what they meant. Life with two teenagers is hectic, to say the least. They’re busy and far more interested in cell phones and their friends than spending quality time with my husband and me. But every so often, everything aligns, we get a break in between work, sports, and traveling schedules—and we plan a ‘family day’.
My daughter gave these infrequent times the official name, and I have to say naming these days worked. Our scheduled family days are pretty sacred—all four of us look forward to them and have never yet tried to reschedule. This past Sunday was our most recent.
We decided to go downtown to Joe’s Crab Shack. It’s a chain restaurant with a good atmosphere. The one near us is on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River. We sat outside, watched barges go by and teased our son about his current ‘it’s not serious’ girlfriend. Everyone also ate a bunch of crab. Next we shopped a little, then came home and sat outside in the backyard. My husband puts up a badminton net every spring, so he and the kids played round after round while I did my usual Sunday afternoon activity…read and nap.
So far, so good. Another successful Family Day. No arguments, no homework assignments suddenly remembered. Everyone was happy .
Until a robin decided to fly under the net. Phoebe the beagle (who previously only moved fast for ham and pizza) jumped up and caught the poor thing. The bird squawked.
Well, you can imagine what happened next.
My husband Tom started yelling and my daughter shrieked. The bird flew out. It had almost scampered away when Suzy, our miniature dachshund, did a mad dash and caught it. In no time at all, all we could see of the robin was a wing sticking out of the weiner-dog’s mouth.
Now Tom had the awful task of getting one very proud, very small dog to drop the bird without touching either her or the bird. The beagle began howling.
My daughter’s screaming reached new decibels. The neighbors on either side wandered over to see what was going on. Out came my son, who-I’ll go ahead and say it-had snuck in the house to get a break from Family Day.
All that was left of the bird were the remains, and they weren’t pretty.
Our next fun family activity involved working together to bag the bird. My son and husband started arguing. The dogs circled, wanting praise for disposing of the intruder. Tired of the hysterics, I told my daughter to go settle down inside.
After all that--well, ‘Family Day’ was officially over. It hadn’t been perfect. Or pretty. But, well, we’d been together…and it was certainly memorable. That counts for something, right?
Anyone else have a ‘family day’ activity that didn’t turn out quite like you’d hoped?
Now I know what they meant. Life with two teenagers is hectic, to say the least. They’re busy and far more interested in cell phones and their friends than spending quality time with my husband and me. But every so often, everything aligns, we get a break in between work, sports, and traveling schedules—and we plan a ‘family day’.
My daughter gave these infrequent times the official name, and I have to say naming these days worked. Our scheduled family days are pretty sacred—all four of us look forward to them and have never yet tried to reschedule. This past Sunday was our most recent.
We decided to go downtown to Joe’s Crab Shack. It’s a chain restaurant with a good atmosphere. The one near us is on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River. We sat outside, watched barges go by and teased our son about his current ‘it’s not serious’ girlfriend. Everyone also ate a bunch of crab. Next we shopped a little, then came home and sat outside in the backyard. My husband puts up a badminton net every spring, so he and the kids played round after round while I did my usual Sunday afternoon activity…read and nap.
So far, so good. Another successful Family Day. No arguments, no homework assignments suddenly remembered. Everyone was happy .
Until a robin decided to fly under the net. Phoebe the beagle (who previously only moved fast for ham and pizza) jumped up and caught the poor thing. The bird squawked.
Well, you can imagine what happened next.
My husband Tom started yelling and my daughter shrieked. The bird flew out. It had almost scampered away when Suzy, our miniature dachshund, did a mad dash and caught it. In no time at all, all we could see of the robin was a wing sticking out of the weiner-dog’s mouth.
Now Tom had the awful task of getting one very proud, very small dog to drop the bird without touching either her or the bird. The beagle began howling.
My daughter’s screaming reached new decibels. The neighbors on either side wandered over to see what was going on. Out came my son, who-I’ll go ahead and say it-had snuck in the house to get a break from Family Day.
All that was left of the bird were the remains, and they weren’t pretty.
Our next fun family activity involved working together to bag the bird. My son and husband started arguing. The dogs circled, wanting praise for disposing of the intruder. Tired of the hysterics, I told my daughter to go settle down inside.
After all that--well, ‘Family Day’ was officially over. It hadn’t been perfect. Or pretty. But, well, we’d been together…and it was certainly memorable. That counts for something, right?
Anyone else have a ‘family day’ activity that didn’t turn out quite like you’d hoped?
Monday, May 21, 2007
Summer's Around the Corner
Summer's around the corner. I have exactly 10 teaching days left. My students are preparing for finals.
The Dunaway household is getting ready as well. This past weekend we purchased new bicycles so that we can ride on the Katy Trail. We live only 10 minutes away. The Katy is a rail-to-trail and it's great. For many parts we'll be riding along the Missouri River. We also visited Camp Cedarledge, a Girl Scout camp that my daughter will be attending for two weeks in July. It'll be her first time being away that long, and guess what, she gets to bring her new bike. We walked all over camp yesterday, and a bike will definitely help.
My oldest is going to a two-week drama day camp. As for me, I'll be attending RWA in Dallas and a 5 day workshop in Manhattan, KS.
So what is everyone else doing?
Michele
The Dunaway household is getting ready as well. This past weekend we purchased new bicycles so that we can ride on the Katy Trail. We live only 10 minutes away. The Katy is a rail-to-trail and it's great. For many parts we'll be riding along the Missouri River. We also visited Camp Cedarledge, a Girl Scout camp that my daughter will be attending for two weeks in July. It'll be her first time being away that long, and guess what, she gets to bring her new bike. We walked all over camp yesterday, and a bike will definitely help.
My oldest is going to a two-week drama day camp. As for me, I'll be attending RWA in Dallas and a 5 day workshop in Manhattan, KS.
So what is everyone else doing?
Michele
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Frenzied in my chair
If you walked by my office and saw me sitting at the computer, I’d look busy, but calm. The truth is, I’m frenzied! Deadlines for a contracted book, a proposal for a new novel, plus a synopsis for another. I want to include the proposal and the synopsis with the contracted book. Then there’s an e-Harlequin promotion and the text for that, due soon. All these things are keeping me busy, busy, busy. Now don’t get me wrong. I like to be busy, setting goals and striving to meet them—that’s my preferred mode.
But sometimes all the work gets to be a bit much. You know the old adage, all work and no play makes Jane a dull girl? Well, it’s an adage because it’s true. In light of that, I’m taking most of the weekend off to play. Seattle is hosting its third annual Cheese Festival this weekend and I’ll be there, wallowing in cheeses from all over the world. Hopefully when I come home I’ll be ready for a week of hard work.
Wishing everyone an enjoyable, stress-free weekend,
Ann
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
P. S. To date there is no word on the title of that book you helped me with. I hope to find out the title soon, though, and will keep you posted.
But sometimes all the work gets to be a bit much. You know the old adage, all work and no play makes Jane a dull girl? Well, it’s an adage because it’s true. In light of that, I’m taking most of the weekend off to play. Seattle is hosting its third annual Cheese Festival this weekend and I’ll be there, wallowing in cheeses from all over the world. Hopefully when I come home I’ll be ready for a week of hard work.
Wishing everyone an enjoyable, stress-free weekend,
Ann
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
P. S. To date there is no word on the title of that book you helped me with. I hope to find out the title soon, though, and will keep you posted.
Better Late Than Never
That will be my epitaph, I'm sure. But what counts is that I am here and very excited about being a part of the Harlequin American family.
My first book for HAR, Family by Design, will be a January '08 release, so we have lots of time to get to know each other. Having written five books for Silhouette Romance, I'm especially happy to have found a new home where I can continue to write stories about families and communities.
I'm a Kansas girl, born and raised in the Sunflower State and have lived here all my life. From big city to small town to a rural farm, I've come full circle and am now back in the big city and loving it. The only thing I miss is the solitude of the "country", where I enjoyed walking up and down the road anytime I felt like it and never had to worry if the neighbors might see me in my pajamas--or worse. My four daughters moved to the city with me, and the two oldest have gifted me with three grandchildren. #4 will arrive this fall. We're very big on family and get together every Saturday night (all 11 of us, counting spouses and fiances!) to play board games or just enjoy talking and laughing together.
Besides writing, I also design websites and baby-sit the aforementioned grandkids. Life is full and wonderful! Well, except for the bottle of wood glue spilled on the carpet and the cell phone that was flushed....
Have a wonderful start to the summer!
My first book for HAR, Family by Design, will be a January '08 release, so we have lots of time to get to know each other. Having written five books for Silhouette Romance, I'm especially happy to have found a new home where I can continue to write stories about families and communities.
I'm a Kansas girl, born and raised in the Sunflower State and have lived here all my life. From big city to small town to a rural farm, I've come full circle and am now back in the big city and loving it. The only thing I miss is the solitude of the "country", where I enjoyed walking up and down the road anytime I felt like it and never had to worry if the neighbors might see me in my pajamas--or worse. My four daughters moved to the city with me, and the two oldest have gifted me with three grandchildren. #4 will arrive this fall. We're very big on family and get together every Saturday night (all 11 of us, counting spouses and fiances!) to play board games or just enjoy talking and laughing together.
Besides writing, I also design websites and baby-sit the aforementioned grandkids. Life is full and wonderful! Well, except for the bottle of wood glue spilled on the carpet and the cell phone that was flushed....
Have a wonderful start to the summer!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Five days and counting...
I work as support staff for a school district. The year is drawing to a close, and all the students in my classes are getting antsy.
To tell the truth, so am I.
There are a million and one things I need to do in these next five days before school ends, and a gazillion things I have to do in the weeks after. And don't you just know those three long--and loooooong-awaited--months will fly by?
My summer days are made for catch-up, work and around-the-house chores, errands and appointments. In July, I'll be at the national conference of the Romance Writers of America, held this year in Dallas. My husband and I are still thinking about what trip we'll take together. Planning it is always half the fun. And my number-one priority this summer--already highlighted all through my calendar--is to write, Write, WRITE!
How about you? Have any plans? Going somewhere special--to a well-loved spot you visit year after year or to a location that's new and different?
Vacation time will be here before you know it!
All my best to you,
Barbara
~~~~~~
Barbara White Daille
http://www.barbarawhitedaille.com
To tell the truth, so am I.
There are a million and one things I need to do in these next five days before school ends, and a gazillion things I have to do in the weeks after. And don't you just know those three long--and loooooong-awaited--months will fly by?
My summer days are made for catch-up, work and around-the-house chores, errands and appointments. In July, I'll be at the national conference of the Romance Writers of America, held this year in Dallas. My husband and I are still thinking about what trip we'll take together. Planning it is always half the fun. And my number-one priority this summer--already highlighted all through my calendar--is to write, Write, WRITE!
How about you? Have any plans? Going somewhere special--to a well-loved spot you visit year after year or to a location that's new and different?
Vacation time will be here before you know it!
All my best to you,
Barbara
~~~~~~
Barbara White Daille
http://www.barbarawhitedaille.com
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Sigh-Worthy Heroes
What makes a hero sigh-worthy?
Is your favorite sigh-worthy hero a cowboy? Lawyer? Doctor? Bad Boy? Pirate? DEA Agent? Soldier? High-powered businessman?
What about tax accountants, pharmacists, computer programmers, realtors and managers of department stores? Granted, there's a certain image associated with a cowboy that makes it difficult for a department-store manager to compete with…tight jeans, boots, cowboy hat and swagger.
What's missing in an "Average Joe" that they rarely make an appearance in romance novels? Is it because many of us women are married to one of these guys? Or is it because it isn't as easy for authors to make Average Joe jump off the pages and into the hearts of readers?
What traits or characteristics--besides a HOT body--do you believe Average Joe, who drives a Saturn, needs to possess to become sigh-worthy?
Happy Reading,
Marin
www.marinthomas.com
The Preacher's Daughter/Summer Lovin' Anthology June 07
Is your favorite sigh-worthy hero a cowboy? Lawyer? Doctor? Bad Boy? Pirate? DEA Agent? Soldier? High-powered businessman?
What about tax accountants, pharmacists, computer programmers, realtors and managers of department stores? Granted, there's a certain image associated with a cowboy that makes it difficult for a department-store manager to compete with…tight jeans, boots, cowboy hat and swagger.
What's missing in an "Average Joe" that they rarely make an appearance in romance novels? Is it because many of us women are married to one of these guys? Or is it because it isn't as easy for authors to make Average Joe jump off the pages and into the hearts of readers?
What traits or characteristics--besides a HOT body--do you believe Average Joe, who drives a Saturn, needs to possess to become sigh-worthy?
Happy Reading,
Marin
www.marinthomas.com
The Preacher's Daughter/Summer Lovin' Anthology June 07
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Love and the small screen
It’s mid-May, the time for endings, and, by the same token, for beginnings. My older son just arrived home from his junior year in college and my younger son is preparing for high school graduation. So it's the start of a summer full of family get-togethers -- and preparation for fall enrollment!
Meanwhile, the spring planting season is winding up here in Southern California, and the summer vegetables are beginning to poke into view. This year, I’m growing tomatoes, along with zucchini, lettuce (if the snails don’t eat it all!), green beans, basil, parsley, cucumbers and eggplant.
May also marks the end of the TV season. Goodbye to old favorites, although many will return. Hello to summer replacements.
Re the old season: Those of who love romance appreciate how the writers on Smallville have managed to keep the sparks alive between Clark and Lana, even after her marriage to Lex. Other favorites: the shenanigans on Desperate Housewives, which I just discovered this year and am frantically catching up on, and the stylish and touching turns on Grey’s Anatomy.
I’ll also miss Jericho, which somehow manages a touch of romance amid the carnage, and 24, where poor Jack Bauer just can’t seem to get his hands on Audrey. Plus, I really enjoy the husband-wife relationships on The Unit.
While I’ll miss them this summer, this means the start of more time to catch up on my reading. I’ll see you at the bookstore!
Meanwhile, the spring planting season is winding up here in Southern California, and the summer vegetables are beginning to poke into view. This year, I’m growing tomatoes, along with zucchini, lettuce (if the snails don’t eat it all!), green beans, basil, parsley, cucumbers and eggplant.
May also marks the end of the TV season. Goodbye to old favorites, although many will return. Hello to summer replacements.
Re the old season: Those of who love romance appreciate how the writers on Smallville have managed to keep the sparks alive between Clark and Lana, even after her marriage to Lex. Other favorites: the shenanigans on Desperate Housewives, which I just discovered this year and am frantically catching up on, and the stylish and touching turns on Grey’s Anatomy.
I’ll also miss Jericho, which somehow manages a touch of romance amid the carnage, and 24, where poor Jack Bauer just can’t seem to get his hands on Audrey. Plus, I really enjoy the husband-wife relationships on The Unit.
While I’ll miss them this summer, this means the start of more time to catch up on my reading. I’ll see you at the bookstore!
Monday, May 14, 2007
Mother's Day Hangover!!!
Is it possible to have too much fun on Mother's Day? I'm exhausted!! LOL!! For starters, all three of my sweeties made cards with actual handwritten notes inside!! You may laugh, but getting teens to write from the heart when they're not being given extra credit isn't easy!!We then headed off to the Muskogee Renaissance Faire. Son #1 took his girlfriend, so they promptly ditched us, but Daughter and Son #2 were smart and stayed with the money!! (The only time we saw Son #1 all day was when he ran low on cash!!
The pic is from left to right, Son #2, Daughter, Son #1's girlfriend, Son #1. We happened upon the happy couple practicing archery, and needing cash for ice cream!!
After weeks of rain, the day was gorgeous and sunny--just right for munching on all of the yummy food!! The hands-down family fave was chizlicks (I know I'm spelling this wrong), which is elk steak. AMAZINGLY tasty!! We were at the grocery store last night, and Daughter asked the butcher if they're able to get elk. He'd never heard of an elk!!! We found this funny, but then seeing how we had the giggles from too much sun and sweets, pretty much anything would've made us laugh!!
I made pasta salad for dinner, then we all sat down for a movie. Turistas convinced me to never EVER again leave the country!! Wow, was it scary!!!
I was sad that I didn't get to see my mom on Mother's Day, but she and Dad were planting trees to replace the ones our late ice storm killed.
Anyway, I hope all of you other mothers out there are feeling as hungover on happiness as I am!! Now, it's back to reality. I'm working on a fun new writing project, but I'm thinking it may have to wait until after I take a nap!!
Anyone else have any Mother's Day fun to share??
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Book signings
From left to right, Connie Brockway, Michele Dunaway, Alexa Hunt (aka Shirl Henke) at MORWA's after-the-meeting book signing.I don't do many book signings anymore. I don't play much golf either. I consider the reasons for both about the same.
First, let me say I love both golf and book signings. I see the chance to sell even one book to a new reader as a thrilling experience. The trouble is the time factor. Book stores expect you to sell mega books in two hours, not just five to ten. Since I'm not Nora or John Grisham, that's probably not going to happen. After my first signings, I noticed my numbers sold at signings went down. My family and friends came to my first signings, but now they don't stop or blink an eye. My being published is "old hat," just like them being journalists, or teachers or something. Just another day at the office.
Golf is about the same way. I discovered that my second time playing, I birdied on the second hole. I've never done as well since. For me, the ideal golf date is tooling around, tearing across the course in the golf cart trying to see who can be the first one to the next green. Since you're not supposed to do that, well...you get the idea.
Book signings can be the same way. The first ones are fun and exciting. Doing one for every book can get old quickly, and if you aren't Nora or someone "really" famous, you'll sit there and smile a lot. The only people who talk to you want directions to the bathrooms. There are others who hover at the end of the aisle and whisper about you. You keep smiling anyway.
Don't get me wrong. Both book signings and golf can be a lot of fun when done properly. With signings, you have to be willing to get out from behind the table and pimp yourself. Yep, that' s the only word for it. You have to be willing to talk to everyone who glances at you. Think of walking through all the sales booths in the middle of the mall. That person who jumps out and offers you hand cream--that has to be you with your book.
Just as golf is more fun to play with someone, so are book signings. Having someone there to chat with while people are chatting about you makes you feel a bit less conspicuous. It also makes the time fly, and if you tag-team the reader who stops for one author, you can often get them to buy both books. You're also guaranteed at least one sale--the other author at the table.
Now I've been a little tongue in cheek here, but all of the above is true. If the other authors are willing to share some of their funny signing experiences.....
And, if you are at RWA this summer, come see me and chat. If nothing else, I promise to know where the bathroom is.
Michele
Friday, May 11, 2007
A hundred lives to lead
Anyone who reads my personal blog (http://karalennox.blogspot.com) knows I'm into bird-watching these days. In fact, I've already included something about bird-watching in two of my books. In A SECOND CHANCE (April 2007, Hotel Marchand series) I had a couple of characters who were staying at the hero's B&B in Louisiana, intent on looking for the rare (and probably extinct) ivory-billed woodpecker. And in an upcoming Harlequin American (GOOD HUSBAND MATERIAL, Jan. 2008) my heroine has lots of birdfeeders and loves to sit and watch birds out her window.
But bird-watching is just one of a whole string of hobbies. The fact is, I am a serial hobbyist. I'll take up something for a year or two, tire of it (or discover I'm no good at it) and move on to something else. But though I never get really good at anything, the hobbies serve a useful purpose, aside from getting me out of the house: I include them in my books! To date, here are some of my hobbies that have made it into my books: scuba diving/snorkeling, cooking, archeology, growing roses, renovating old houses, astrology, storm chasing, oil painting, bicycling, jewelry making.
Some of the hobbies I only tried briefly. Storm chasing, for example, was too scary, too time consuming, and required expensive equipment. My roses all died. I was dreadful at oil painting, and I decided jewelry making wasn't all that much fun. Some hobbies became lifelong pursuits--bicycling and renovating old houses are two I've stuck with.
But, believe it or not, I still have a few hobbies I haven't yet used. I've never had a character who was an antiques dealer, for instance. Or a mosaic artist. Or a treasure hunter. Or a rock climber. I've shown dogs and dug for crystals. I was into stargazing for a while. Played the guitar, mandolin and electronic keyboard (none of them very well). I even (gasp!) used to hunt birds.
If only I had a hundred lives to lead, maybe I could get good at all of these activities. Unfortunately there's only me, and only twenty-four hours in a day, so usually I don't do more than skim the surface and move on. But by living vicariously through my characters, I can get a taste of what it would feel like to be a real archeologist. Or a chef. Or a ... I dunno. I could use a new hobby. Any suggestions?
But bird-watching is just one of a whole string of hobbies. The fact is, I am a serial hobbyist. I'll take up something for a year or two, tire of it (or discover I'm no good at it) and move on to something else. But though I never get really good at anything, the hobbies serve a useful purpose, aside from getting me out of the house: I include them in my books! To date, here are some of my hobbies that have made it into my books: scuba diving/snorkeling, cooking, archeology, growing roses, renovating old houses, astrology, storm chasing, oil painting, bicycling, jewelry making.
Some of the hobbies I only tried briefly. Storm chasing, for example, was too scary, too time consuming, and required expensive equipment. My roses all died. I was dreadful at oil painting, and I decided jewelry making wasn't all that much fun. Some hobbies became lifelong pursuits--bicycling and renovating old houses are two I've stuck with.
But, believe it or not, I still have a few hobbies I haven't yet used. I've never had a character who was an antiques dealer, for instance. Or a mosaic artist. Or a treasure hunter. Or a rock climber. I've shown dogs and dug for crystals. I was into stargazing for a while. Played the guitar, mandolin and electronic keyboard (none of them very well). I even (gasp!) used to hunt birds.
If only I had a hundred lives to lead, maybe I could get good at all of these activities. Unfortunately there's only me, and only twenty-four hours in a day, so usually I don't do more than skim the surface and move on. But by living vicariously through my characters, I can get a taste of what it would feel like to be a real archeologist. Or a chef. Or a ... I dunno. I could use a new hobby. Any suggestions?
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
COLORFUL CHARACTERS
COLORFUL CHARACTERS
Once A Cowboy came out in February and I received mail about the sexy cowboy on the cover. Yes, he was sexy! But I also received mail wanting to know if my grandmother was like Naddy in the book.
No, absolutely not. She was just the opposite. And since readers have asked, I’ll tell you about her. And if you have a colorful character in your life, please share. They make our life interesting and fun.
My grandmother, my mother’s mother, was a devout Polish Catholic and she lived with us. She prayed in Polish and as kids my brothers and I tried to be very good around her. We didn’t want her talking to God about us in a language we didn’t understand. Every Sunday at seven a.m. we were in church for mass. My grandmother had her special seat, on the end of the row and my brothers and I jockeyed not to sit by her. I somehow always got squeezed in by Grandma.
We loved our grandmother, but she was very strict about church. You had to stay awake. We played hard on Saturdays and getting up at 5:30 a.m. to go to church was difficult for little kids. Every time I would doze off my grandmother would pinch my cheek. Hard. My right cheek was numb most of my growing up years.
She passed away when I was seventeen-years-old and I can remember her funeral vividly. It was late October, cool and drizzling rain. I remember standing in the light rain and wishing she’d pinch my cheek one more time. It was the first time I became aware of death and it’s finality.
Wherever Grandma is she’s praying in Polish and probably shaking her head at my romance novels. I’m not sure what she would think of them. She’d probably pinch my cheek.
Linda Warren
Once A Cowboy came out in February and I received mail about the sexy cowboy on the cover. Yes, he was sexy! But I also received mail wanting to know if my grandmother was like Naddy in the book.
No, absolutely not. She was just the opposite. And since readers have asked, I’ll tell you about her. And if you have a colorful character in your life, please share. They make our life interesting and fun.
My grandmother, my mother’s mother, was a devout Polish Catholic and she lived with us. She prayed in Polish and as kids my brothers and I tried to be very good around her. We didn’t want her talking to God about us in a language we didn’t understand. Every Sunday at seven a.m. we were in church for mass. My grandmother had her special seat, on the end of the row and my brothers and I jockeyed not to sit by her. I somehow always got squeezed in by Grandma.
We loved our grandmother, but she was very strict about church. You had to stay awake. We played hard on Saturdays and getting up at 5:30 a.m. to go to church was difficult for little kids. Every time I would doze off my grandmother would pinch my cheek. Hard. My right cheek was numb most of my growing up years.
She passed away when I was seventeen-years-old and I can remember her funeral vividly. It was late October, cool and drizzling rain. I remember standing in the light rain and wishing she’d pinch my cheek one more time. It was the first time I became aware of death and it’s finality.
Wherever Grandma is she’s praying in Polish and probably shaking her head at my romance novels. I’m not sure what she would think of them. She’d probably pinch my cheek.
Linda Warren
Saturday, May 05, 2007
I Need Help!
I am terrible thinking up titles for my books! My editor wants me to come up with something for the second novel set on the fictitious Halo Island, and I’m hoping you’ll help.
In a nutshell, here are the particulars:
The hero, D.J. Hatcher owns Island Air, a seaplane company that flies tourists from Seattle to Halo Island and back. The flight takes about one hour. (The company is modeled on a real-life seaplane company in Bothell, Washington, near where I live.) Island Air is suffering financial problems, and D.J. may be forced to sell—something he does not want to do.
The heroine, Liza Miller, teaches second grade, but not on the island. She grew up there, and has come back to help her grandmother move from her home of fifty-four years into an apartment in a retirement complex. The move is for the best—a smaller place with a dining room and medical care is just what her grandmother needs. But leaving one’s home is never easy. An added burden is that Liza has been let go and must find another teaching job.
Both D.J. and Liza have had painful pasts. Four years before the story opens, D.J.’s wife ran off with his business partner. The following year, Liza’s fiancée left her at the altar for one of the guests. Imagine!
I won’t go into the details (you can read the story when it comes out sometime in 2008), but as you might have guessed, Liza and D.J. fall in love.
My editor would love to use the word “pilot” in the title. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. I’m counting on you, and will report back on my next blog date, May 19, with the title my editor chooses.
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
In a nutshell, here are the particulars:
The hero, D.J. Hatcher owns Island Air, a seaplane company that flies tourists from Seattle to Halo Island and back. The flight takes about one hour. (The company is modeled on a real-life seaplane company in Bothell, Washington, near where I live.) Island Air is suffering financial problems, and D.J. may be forced to sell—something he does not want to do.
The heroine, Liza Miller, teaches second grade, but not on the island. She grew up there, and has come back to help her grandmother move from her home of fifty-four years into an apartment in a retirement complex. The move is for the best—a smaller place with a dining room and medical care is just what her grandmother needs. But leaving one’s home is never easy. An added burden is that Liza has been let go and must find another teaching job.
Both D.J. and Liza have had painful pasts. Four years before the story opens, D.J.’s wife ran off with his business partner. The following year, Liza’s fiancée left her at the altar for one of the guests. Imagine!
I won’t go into the details (you can read the story when it comes out sometime in 2008), but as you might have guessed, Liza and D.J. fall in love.
My editor would love to use the word “pilot” in the title. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. I’m counting on you, and will report back on my next blog date, May 19, with the title my editor chooses.
Ann Roth
Summer Lovin’ Anthology: A Reunion Story, June 2007
Mitch Takes A Wife, August, 2007
www.annroth.net
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Spring Cleaning
I have three sets of visitors coming to stay for a few days this summer--end of May, *sometime* in June and the week of July 4th, which includes a big family reunion at my home. When do I do my spring cleaning and still have the house in good shape by July?
Spring cleaning in my house includes…cleaning the carpets (I have my own carpet machine and do the rugs in my house) cleaning the blinds (damp cloth and wipe every slat), washing windows, curtains, flipping bed mattresses, wiping baseboards, cleaning the bathroom vents and washing shower curtains, spraying dried flowers arrangements, dusting all those goofy roosters I collect, washing doors, cleaning the garage out, getting on a ladder and dusting the lights and ceiling fans) then of course all the normal stuff like vacuuming and dusting.
I'm tempted to hire a maid service to come in and do the whole house in one day, but I hate spending money on something I can do myself. I'd rather use the money I save to buy flowers for the yard. If anyone has any shortcuts, tips or suggestions on spring cleaning, I'd love to hear them.
Happy Reading!
Marin
www.marinthomas.com
Summer Lovin' The Preacher's Daughter June 07
Spring cleaning in my house includes…cleaning the carpets (I have my own carpet machine and do the rugs in my house) cleaning the blinds (damp cloth and wipe every slat), washing windows, curtains, flipping bed mattresses, wiping baseboards, cleaning the bathroom vents and washing shower curtains, spraying dried flowers arrangements, dusting all those goofy roosters I collect, washing doors, cleaning the garage out, getting on a ladder and dusting the lights and ceiling fans) then of course all the normal stuff like vacuuming and dusting.
I'm tempted to hire a maid service to come in and do the whole house in one day, but I hate spending money on something I can do myself. I'd rather use the money I save to buy flowers for the yard. If anyone has any shortcuts, tips or suggestions on spring cleaning, I'd love to hear them.
Happy Reading!
Marin
www.marinthomas.com
Summer Lovin' The Preacher's Daughter June 07
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
You can go home again
I just returned from a week in Nashville, Tennessee. Although most people associate Music City with its country performers, I grew up there, so a return has a very different meaning to me. This trip in particular was packed with landmark events.
My mom, Sylvia Hyman, is an internationally known ceramic sculptor, and the first weekend of my visit, I attended the Nashville Film Festival to view the world premiere of a half-hour documentary about her by filmmaker Curt Hahn. In addition to my stepfather, we were joined by my brother, my stepbrother and his wife, so we enjoyed a mini-family reunion along with the screening.
The film, “Sylvia Hyman: Eternal Wonder,” is beautifully made, informative and amusing, although my mother wishes it had been titled “Eternally Wondering” instead of “Eternal Wonder” (it should be available on DVD by mid-June from www.filmhouse.com). Curt is also cutting a shorter version to accompany an exhibit of Sylvia’s work at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts in Nashville, June 22-Oct 7, in celebration of her upcoming 90th birthday.
Not the usual sort of visit with one’s 89-year-old mother! And she’s still working, exploring new ideas and techniques.
My visit also encompassed my fortieth high school reunion, a chance to catch up with old friends. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but we had a blast! About twenty fellow students from a graduating class of seventy attended, along with perhaps a dozen spouses. Our class comedians haven’t lost their touch (in fact, I think they’re funnier now) and everyone seemed warm and upbeat. I almost wish I were back in high school so I could enjoy their company without the teenage angst.
It’s hard to believe so much time has passed. All the same, I feel like I’m just getting started in my own life and career. My mother has done her best work since she turned eighty. So tune in – I’m revving my engines!
My mom, Sylvia Hyman, is an internationally known ceramic sculptor, and the first weekend of my visit, I attended the Nashville Film Festival to view the world premiere of a half-hour documentary about her by filmmaker Curt Hahn. In addition to my stepfather, we were joined by my brother, my stepbrother and his wife, so we enjoyed a mini-family reunion along with the screening.
The film, “Sylvia Hyman: Eternal Wonder,” is beautifully made, informative and amusing, although my mother wishes it had been titled “Eternally Wondering” instead of “Eternal Wonder” (it should be available on DVD by mid-June from www.filmhouse.com). Curt is also cutting a shorter version to accompany an exhibit of Sylvia’s work at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts in Nashville, June 22-Oct 7, in celebration of her upcoming 90th birthday.
Not the usual sort of visit with one’s 89-year-old mother! And she’s still working, exploring new ideas and techniques.
My visit also encompassed my fortieth high school reunion, a chance to catch up with old friends. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but we had a blast! About twenty fellow students from a graduating class of seventy attended, along with perhaps a dozen spouses. Our class comedians haven’t lost their touch (in fact, I think they’re funnier now) and everyone seemed warm and upbeat. I almost wish I were back in high school so I could enjoy their company without the teenage angst.
It’s hard to believe so much time has passed. All the same, I feel like I’m just getting started in my own life and career. My mother has done her best work since she turned eighty. So tune in – I’m revving my engines!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Best Harlequin American--05 (or why you shouldn't be embarrassed to google yourself)
Okay, admit it. You've taken your name, stuck it in the google search bar and pressed enter. If you haven't, you should start.
As an author, I do a search of my name about every two months. I've also signed up for google alerts, but usually I get information about movies that star Michelle Pieffer and Faye Dunaway rather than something about me.
However, the other day I did a google search and discovered that cataromance.com named Emergency Engagement their best Harlequin American of...2005.
I had no idea. No one ever notified me, so it was a fun way to end what has been a pretty good month.
Google searches have turned up some other interesting things. I've found reviews of my books, foreign editions, my bio written in French, blogs about my books, and authors who have credited me for inspiring them to write something (which is always fun). Most things I'd never know, had I not "googled" myself.
I'll also admit to googling family members, exboyfriends, coworkers, etc. It's fun to see what's out there on the world wide web, and I've located former students via their posts on myspace, by finding it first on google.
So have fun. Don't be embarrassed. You might discover you've won something, or that someone with your name is "famous" too (the other Michele Dunaways are a painter and a newsbroadcaster).
Michele
As an author, I do a search of my name about every two months. I've also signed up for google alerts, but usually I get information about movies that star Michelle Pieffer and Faye Dunaway rather than something about me.
However, the other day I did a google search and discovered that cataromance.com named Emergency Engagement their best Harlequin American of...2005.
I had no idea. No one ever notified me, so it was a fun way to end what has been a pretty good month.
Google searches have turned up some other interesting things. I've found reviews of my books, foreign editions, my bio written in French, blogs about my books, and authors who have credited me for inspiring them to write something (which is always fun). Most things I'd never know, had I not "googled" myself.
I'll also admit to googling family members, exboyfriends, coworkers, etc. It's fun to see what's out there on the world wide web, and I've located former students via their posts on myspace, by finding it first on google.
So have fun. Don't be embarrassed. You might discover you've won something, or that someone with your name is "famous" too (the other Michele Dunaways are a painter and a newsbroadcaster).
Michele
Sunday, April 29, 2007
My "Writer's Spa"
My husband, Rob, also a writer and an e-publisher, signed up to attend the Romentic Times Booklovers Convention. I decided to go with him. I mean, he was paying for the hotel room. I could hang out in a luxurious room, freed from the mundane activities of meal preparation, paying bills and housework. I could eat healthy salads and fruit for every meal, take long walks, and sleep in a king-size bed with massive numbers of feather pillows. Under such conditions, I was sure I could crank out at least 50 pages.
We drove down to Houston on Wednesday afternoon. By the time we got settled in our room I was much too tired to write. I watched "Mythbusters" and "Dirty Jobs" and planned to start my serious spa work the next day.
Thursday got off to a promising start. I woke up early and went for a nice long run/walk in the beautiful spring weather. About a mile from the hotel I found a bagel shop, where I bought a bagel and coffee to go (I couldn't find any fresh fruit, honest!). On the way back to the hotel, I fell off the curb and twisted my ankle.
I hopped/hobbled/limped about eight blocks back to the hotel, put ice on my ankle, and ate my cold bagel and drank my cold coffee. That was the end of the fitness portion of my spa. Now there was nothing left for me to do but write. I propped myself on the bed with my foot on a pillow, and I wrote and wrote and wrote--thirty pages.
As for the salad plans, I had great intentions, but Subway was the only place close enough to limp to. Subway sells potato chips. I was doomed.
That night I went to bed early with a couple of aspirin.
Friday I wrote some more--17 pages--and ate all the candy Rob brought back from the conference Goody Room. At three o'clock I packed up and started for home--and was stuck in traffic for two hours. Not exactly the relaxing conclusion I was hoping for.
At least I got a lot of writing done, which was really the point. And okay, the feather pillows were nice. But next time I want a spa, I'm checking into Elizabeth Arden!
We drove down to Houston on Wednesday afternoon. By the time we got settled in our room I was much too tired to write. I watched "Mythbusters" and "Dirty Jobs" and planned to start my serious spa work the next day.
Thursday got off to a promising start. I woke up early and went for a nice long run/walk in the beautiful spring weather. About a mile from the hotel I found a bagel shop, where I bought a bagel and coffee to go (I couldn't find any fresh fruit, honest!). On the way back to the hotel, I fell off the curb and twisted my ankle.
I hopped/hobbled/limped about eight blocks back to the hotel, put ice on my ankle, and ate my cold bagel and drank my cold coffee. That was the end of the fitness portion of my spa. Now there was nothing left for me to do but write. I propped myself on the bed with my foot on a pillow, and I wrote and wrote and wrote--thirty pages.
As for the salad plans, I had great intentions, but Subway was the only place close enough to limp to. Subway sells potato chips. I was doomed.
That night I went to bed early with a couple of aspirin.
Friday I wrote some more--17 pages--and ate all the candy Rob brought back from the conference Goody Room. At three o'clock I packed up and started for home--and was stuck in traffic for two hours. Not exactly the relaxing conclusion I was hoping for.
At least I got a lot of writing done, which was really the point. And okay, the feather pillows were nice. But next time I want a spa, I'm checking into Elizabeth Arden!
(P.S. The picture is me with legendary Romantic Times publisher Kathryn Falk. I did attend one reception, given by www.allromanceebooks.com.)
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