#ThursdayThoughts with Jessica Baker

Good Morning Friends!

As you know I utilize this feature to share thoughts with you myself and/or allow my guests (usually authors) to share theirs.

Today's guest, however, is not an author but a reader and book reviewer!

Please welcome Jessica Baker to our blog....

“I think I might have an interest in the missions field.”

Is it possible for a parent to be both proud and terrified at the same time? When my then fourteen year old daughter said those words to me, I was so proud. What teenager thinks about this – a life committed entirely to God and serving Him in a place unknown? I told her to pray that God would show her His will for her life. Little did I know that this was only the beginning. Over the past year and a half I have seen her excitement and interest in missions work grow.  She began dreaming of all the different places she could go to share God’s Word. And as her excitement grew, this mama’s heart started to crack just a little.

Caitlin is our one and only child. Our family happens to be very close, and she has really only been away from us long term for a week when she was in fourth grade. That’s it! Sure, there have been sleepovers and friend’s houses over the years, but nothing more than a day or two. So imagine my sudden need to keep her closer knowing what the future holds! My little girl could be going across the world, and then when would I see her? She could be going to dangerous places, and I’m not sure my heart can take that. Mothers tend to worry too much, but don’t mistake that for lack of faith. I know, trust, and love the Lord. It’s that fleshly, motherly instinct that worries!

In August Caitlin will be going on her first missions trip, at the age of fifteen. She’ll be traveling with our pastor and his wife to Zacatecas, Mexico.

The three of them will be staying with a missionary family our church supports. They will be working with children the entire time they are there – another passion my daughter has. The plan is to have VBS for the community, and to minister to the kids in the local children’s home. Caitlin is going to lead a bible study for a group of 18 young girls. She is both nervous and excited. She has purchased gifts for all the girls to teach them about bible journaling, something Caitlin loves to do. Caitlin does not like speaking in front of people, so that fact that she even agreed to this, tells me that this is what God would have her to do. Her prayer is that during this trip, God would give her a clear sign of what He wants for her future. My prayer is that while she’s away, He prepares my heart and mind for what the future brings for her as well. 

I couldn’t be more proud of this beautiful, young woman who has a heart for others and a heart for the Lord. Will you pray about her trip with me? For safe travels, a good time, the ability to minister to others, and listening for what God would place on her heart? And would you also pray for this scared mama? That the Lord would just give me a peace about Caitlin’s future, even if it does take her far away! I imagine this trip will be the first of many – this missions family has already invited her to come back next summer, for the entire summer! Lord, let me get through this trip first please!

Hooray for Caitlin! Isn't this a wonderful, inspiring story?!

Author Bio:

Jessica Baker lives Central NY with her husband, teenage daughter, beagle and cat. She loves Jesus, her family and her church. She is a wife, mother, church youth group leader, and avid reader.  She loves cooking and baking for family and friends in her spare time.

Jessica’s love for reading began as a young child when her grandmother read her the book Teeny Tiny Woman. In fact, most of the books she read as a child were given to Jessica by her grandmother, to whom she is eternally grateful for encouraging her to read. Today Jessica has a diverse taste in Christian books, ranging from Amish to dystopian, historic to contemporary, and everywhere in between.

Jessica loves sharing her passion for reading with others, and connecting readers with authors. In addition to her blog, she provides support in managing street teams, proofreading, beta reading, copy edits, and assisting authors in any way that she can. Find out more about Jessica and her author/reader connection services by visiting her website, A Baker's Perspective.  

So very nice to meet you, Jessica. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today. Good luck and God's blessings in your endeavors!

Hope you enjoyed today's post friends and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time take care and God Bless.

PamT

#TuesdayTreasures: Special Guest Post by Melanie Purifoy!

Good Morning Friends,

Today it is my great pleasure to introduce you to a very special friend of mine. Melanie and I met about ten years ago when we worked together to produce her book, One Touch: A Woman's Journey to Wholeness. Over the span of time, Melanie's life underwent many changes and like a lot of folks, the book rested on her hard drive and in the back of her mind.

Today, One Touch is available for your reading pleasure! I'll share more about the book in a little bit, but first Melanie shares with us something she treasures.....Relationships...

As I contemplate the topic of what I truly treasure, many things come to mind with a brief explosive element of excitement. As a cancer survivor, I feel I should humbly and gratefully say "life". However, my life is truly joyous because of my relationships. The one constant is my life has been the exploring, building, and healthy maintenance with the people in my life. I have studied boundaries and forgiveness. I have worked on my own codependency. And I have learned the importance of patience, compassion, and understanding.

I treasure my friendships, family, mentors, and students. And in each individual case I have come to understand that working to have the healthiest relationship possible is always my gift to myself. I become enlightened in new ways and my perspective shifts into a multi-dimensional view of the world and the people in it.

There was a time when I managed a large number of people in a Fortune 500 company. My strength was influencing people to get jobs completed and deadlines met. I was highly effective at this and prided myself on my ability to take a troubled project and turn it into a finished, fully functioning environment in a matter of a few short weeks. I would fly back home feeling proud and accomplished. However, I could not have told you one thing about any of those people's lives that I had just spent numerous hours with all working together to complete a goal. And once the feeling of pride and accomplishment dissolved, I felt lonely.
Today I treasure the brief visits with my busy children, the phone calls with my aging mother who lives over 800 miles away, and the quiet evenings my husband and I spend as empty-nesters. I cherish my visits with my grandson and share little pearls of insight about God, forgiveness, and loving one's self. He is a wise, old soul for such a young man.

I feel very proud that I have passed down the importance of relationship building to each one of my four children. They too cherish their relationships while maintaining healthy boundaries that nourish their souls.

My interaction with others strengthens my connection to God and enhances my personal relationship with Christ. I value the life lessons that have brought me here. And I will continue to always cherish the people in my life as precious treasures.

Melanie Purifoy draws from her own experience as a two-time cancer survivor bringing to life the character of Rebekah, the bleeding woman healed by Jesus in the New Testament. After being diagnosed with invasive cancer she began a one-day-at-a-time healing path to recovery. Her miracle brought into focus that healing one’s body, mind, and spirit can only be attributed to God’s grace and her willingness to reach out for the gifts He had bestowed upon her.

After training and becoming a certified Heal Your Life coach, a course developed from the methods and philosophy of Louise Hay, Melanie founded Conscious Creations, a support network for cancer survivors, their families, and physicians. Using the principles of forgiveness and acceptance as the basis of her teaching, Melanie conducts workshops and life coaching. One Touch A Woman's Journey to Wholeness is a result of her compassionate insight into the lives of minor characters of the Bible and can be found at Amazon (Kindle) and Smashwords.

Well, I'm sure we can all relate to Melanie treasuring the relationships in her life. Check back Thursday when she shares some thoughts with us on Transparency vs Invisible.

Until then, take care & God Bless!

PamT

#ThursdayThoughts: Special Guest Post by Lynne Gentry!

Good Morning Friends,

It is my pleasure to bring you this special guest post by Lynne Gentry & Litfuse Publicity Group....

Enjoy!

“The Story Within the Story”

Writing the words “The End” to an epic series is always tough for an author. We wonder, Will this conclusion satisfy readers? Reader concerns aside, for me, wrapping up this tale was especially bittersweet. I felt like I’d been on a long, hard personal journey of exploration and growth. The trip had challenged me at every hair-raising turn. I was exhausted.
For you see, my story is the story within this story.

Dr. Lisbeth Hastings’ determination to change the past had its roots in my own regrets. I’d been struggling with the desire to go back twenty years and make a couple of different decisions. Knowing that I couldn’t, I wondered why God would ask such an imperfect person to write a story about his perfect, unfailing love. The assignment was almost more than I could bear. I lifted prayers of deliverance from this task. All I heard in response was: WRITE.

So I did.

Word by word, Lisbeth’s story began to unfold. With each line I felt the burden I’d carried for so long lighten. But it wasn’t until I wrote the last page of this young doctor’s tale that I realized how changing anything in my past would be like pulling a thread in the tapestry of my own life. Removing even a single decision (my children, for example) would make me into a totally different person.

Like Lisbeth, I decided each of my decisions was a different colored thread. Woven together, they created shadows and light, added dimension and depth to the whole picture of who I am. I took a good, long look at myself and decided the consequences of my decisions had shaped me into a generous, loving, and kind person. I’m braver than I think, tenacious, and for the first time in years, very happy. I was surprised to discover that I liked who I’d become. I’m comfortable with who I am--an imperfect person who loves God and knows, without a doubt, that God loves me, even when I fail. Grasping this concept was so liberating.

I don’t believe I’m the first Christian to struggle with this truth. The early church was full of people just like us. Even my hero, Cyprianus Thascius, struggled with perfection and his intense desire to hold others to the high standard he had set.

We are so tempted to believe God loves only those who are perfect; that once we have everything together, THEN God can love us.

But the story within the story of Christ’s journey to this earth is this: We can never be good enough on our own – and we don’t have to.

Now that’s a happy ending I can live with.

“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.  He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.  He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.” –Psalm 40:1-3

Lynne Gentry has written for numerous publications and is a professional acting coach, theater director and playwright with several full-length musicals and a Chicago children’s theater curriculum to her credit. She likes to write stories that launch modern women into ancient adventures, such as The Carthage Chronicles series (Healer of Carthage, Return to Exile and Valley of Decision).

Gentry is also an inspirational speaker and dramatic performer who loves spending time with her family and medical therapy dog.

To keep up with Lynne Gentry, visit www.lynnegentry.com, become a fan on Facebook (Author-Lynne-Gentry) or follow her on Twitter (@Lynne_Gentry) and Pinterest (lynnegentry7).


Valley of Decision is available at Amazon in Print and on Kindle!

Hope you enjoyed today's Thursday Thoughts!

Have a Blessed and Prosperous day.
PamT

Win a Nook from LASR!

Hello Friends,

Arrived home around 1:40 am this morning from Bandera, TX ~ my job at the Silver Spur Guest Ranch is over although I'm sure I'll be back there from time to time.

Today I'd like to tell you about an exciting opportunity....You can win a NOOK from Long & Short Reviews!

Here are the details....

The Long and the Short of It is celebrating its third anniversary in style -- by giving away THREE Nook 3G eBook Readers that come with $50 BN.com gift certificates AND are already pre-loaded with dozens of romance and juvenile fiction eBooks.


We're having a scavenger hunt that runs from August 2 - August 29. For directions on how to earn entries to win the Nooks, click on the Participant buttons below.

Our anniversary party culminates in a two day chat that final weekend in our Yahoo groups (links are below), during which every post earns an entry AND we'll be announcing the winners in the final hour.
~~~~~~~~~~

Run over now and participate and Good Luck!
PamT

Saturday Spotlight - KM Daughters!

Hello Friends,

Please welcome back to our Saturday Spotlight ~ KM Daughters with their book: Past, Present and Forever

K.M. Daughters is the award winning writing team of sisters, Pat Casiello and Kathie Clare. Their penname is dedicated to the memory of their parents: Kay and Mickey Lynch. Pat is married to Nick Casiello and has three children, Jen, Emilie and Brian. Kathie is married to Tom Clare and has two sons, Tom and Michael. She has two grandchildren, Natalie and Michael and a new grandbaby is expected in September. K.M. Daughters’ career began with two book contracts from The Wild Rose Press and White Rose Publishing on the same day – January 26, 2008. Three more book contracts followed in 2008 in three romance genres: Inspirational, Romantic Suspense and Contemporary Romance. The Visions of Love inspirational series features Jewel of the Adriatic and Rose of the Adriatic. The author’s romantic suspense Sullivan Boys series includes: Against Doctors Orders, Beyond The Code of Conduct, Capturing Karma and working titles: All’s Fair In Love and Law and In The St. Nick of Time. Visit our website: http://www.kmdaughters.com

Unaware they share the same goal, Lizzie and Jack motivate Jack’s brother Charlie out of his despondency after the death of his wife. Lizzie and Jack both understand loss. Liz was jilted by her fiancé the same day her parents died ten years ago and Jack’s mother abandoned her small sons to life with a father who never recovered from the separation.

Now Liz faces the man who destroyed her at a college reunion, with Jack as her companion instead of Charlie who engineers the covert substitution. As Liz and Jack collide in the present can they overcome their pasts and find forever?

Excerpt: As he turned away to go take another look at those pictures, the front door burst inward toward Jack. Jumping back before it clocked him, he lost his balance as the female that followed quickly through the door did clock him in a soft collision of breasts against his chest.

“Ohmygosh, I’m so sorry.” Standing in front of him, a pretty blush spread on her lightly tanned cheeks.

“No problem…miss?” He backed up to give her space, shoving the front door closed.

“Lizzie Moran.” She held out a hand. “And you are?”

“Jack Clark.” He shook her hand, just skimming her knuckles with his fingers, a pleasant connection. So this is the famous Lizzie, now he was sorry for not meshing.

Beguiling smile, tender eyes, legs even better close up. On the skinny side, but appealing curves where it counts. Plus she obviously cares about Charlie and that means a great deal.

“Oh. Jack finally.” She brushed her bangs out of her eyes. “Mari told me so much about you. Nice to meet you.”

She bent her head and surveyed the floor.

“Looking for your dog?” He turned toward the back of the house joining in the search.

“Ah, yes. Marty. Marty!” she blasted.

Good lungs. His ears vibrated. The dog tore from behind him toward Lizzie with jubilant owner worship yips. Lizzie scooped up the little dog and let her lick the side of her cheek unhindered. Made Jack want to be a Boston terrier.

“Cute dog.” He couldn’t help but look at those legs.

“Thanks. Where’s Charlie?” She looked around nudging the dog away from her face.

“Taking a shower.” Finally getting Charlie up and about brought a smile to his face.

“No kidding?” Her deep green eyes widened twice their size. “What did you do, club him and prop him up under the water?”

Jack laughed. “No. But it crossed my mind.”

She turned toward the open door. “I have to run. Tell Charlie I came back for Marty?”

“Sure,” he agreed following her toward the door.

“Nice to finally meet you, Jack. And, thank you for whatever you did to make the difference with Charlie. I’ve been knocking my head against the wall trying to get through to him.” She smiled and turned slowly toward the street.

“Same here.” He stood and watched her walk the dog down the block. Mari, bless her heart, might have been on to something.

Past, Present and Forever – a contemporary romance is Available Now at sapphirebluepublishing.com, allromanceebooks.com or the Amazon Kindle store.

Wow, sounds like another great read from KM Daughters!

Well Friends, we are rushing headlong into the holiday season. Don't forget, beginning the 24th through Jan 8th I'm going to feature holiday stories so check back often.

If I don't say it often enough - THANK YOU for your continued love and support and May God BLESS each and every one of you - and yours- exceedingly and abundantly more than you can dare to think, dream or imagine!

PamT

Special Guest Spotlight - Mary Ricksen

Hello Friends,

Please issue a warm welcome to my special guest, Mary Ricksen.

I am a Vermonter. I was born in Burlington and the mountains and Lake Champlain are in my blood. I have lived in several places, from Vermont, to New York, Canada, Texas and finally Florida. I have lived here in Florida for the last twenty five years. Although it is a beautiful place, the hurricanes and the heat are hard to take.

I have been married forever to my husband Chris. He spends most of his time in front of his computer. A computer engineer by career, he is addicted to them. My dog Junior, a huge black German Shepherd, is my baby. One hundred and thirty pounds of adoring love, he is a beloved character in my first book. And he is very spoiled. My garden is a jungle of tropical plants, the sweet smell of their fragrances filled my yard and my nose! There's nothing at all like planting something and watching it grow. It's like writing in that way.

I have spent years trying to find my special ability. Finally, I think I have it. I love to write and I love to interact with other authors and I'm hoping to say the same thing about readers when my book is finally published.

Tripping Through Time is a time travel novel that takes place on the Islands in Lake Champlain, Vermont. It surrounds you in the imagery and story of a young woman who learns that love is truly timeless.

Excerpt

What the hell? She knew this wasn’t still in some part of that nightmare trip she’d taken. It was too real, the place too old fashioned. She heard crickets and saw lightning bugs twinkle outside the window. A fly buzzed over her head and she listened to a mosquito or two, droning in their search for the rich red blood beneath her skin.

She didn’t hear blast of car horns, the tire sounds on pavement, or the grinding noise from trucks changing gears, as they flew up and down the hilly countryside. It was so quiet, no music, no talking, nothing. Then she heard a latch lift, and one hundred and twenty pounds of fur jumped up onto the bed, knocking the breath out of her.

Anxiety left her speechless, as the light from the open door spilled into the room, and onto the bed, she lay in. The dog lay next to her warm and wild smelling, doing her no harm. The large figure approaching her now made her breathless, anxious. She knew it was a man; his silhouette outlined by the light behind him.

When he reached the bed, he bent toward her, only to pick up the tiny piece of candle still barely burning. He lit a stained glass-covered lantern placed on the bed stand beside it. Keealyn stared into a pair of green eyes that reminded her of misty mornings.

Clean-shaven, thick dark chestnut hair flowed past the collar of his navy muslin shirt opened halfway down the front, to reveal a smooth muscular chest. Very tall, lean, and brawny, well defined, biceps, triceps, and pecks filled his shirt. He had a slim waist and strong shoulders. His worn blue jeans were held up with a handmade leather belt, hung low on his hips. His skin seemed to glow in the lamplight in a warm bronzed tone.

He was gorgeous.

"Tripping Through Time" ISBN#1-60154-392-1
Available Through The Wild Rose Press

Saturday Spotlight - Tricia Jones

Today's guest is fellow TWRP author, Tricia Jones and her book, A Temporary Arrangement.

Fair England is my home, where I’m happily married to my wonderful husband of…ahem…let’s just say several years. A lifelong writer, although for many years I channeled that interest into work related qualifications for the "day job" in adult education. Now I'm addicted to writing fiction, especially contemporary romance with strong heroes and equally strong heroines who give their men a run for their money. Travel is a passion and I can pack a suitcase quicker than a girl can sneeze. I love finding romantic places to act as the setting for a new book, or a little corner café where I can indulge in a spot of people watching and let my imagination fly.

Finn Montgomery needs a wife … temporarily. With his sister’s recent death heavy on his conscience he wants custody of his seven year old nephew, and that means finding a suitable woman and making her an offer she couldn’t refuse. Thia Conway needs a miracle … permanently. Too bad that miracle comes in the shape of a ruthless and arrogant businessman who views a marriage proposal as just another clause in a contract – a contract Thia has no option but to sign.

EXCERPT – A Temporary Arrangement

Thia spun around to see Finn in the doorway. He dropped his shoulder against the frame and just leaned there. It was amazing how the man generated heat, how she could always seem to feel the energy coming off of him.

“I really don't like you,” she said. “And do you know what? I don't want to talk, not any more.”

“What's the matter, Princess, my conversation skills not to your liking?”

Thia scoffed. “Conversation skills? Try putting lack of before those words and you just about have it.”

“What do you mean? I've been talking. Christ, I've talked more to you than just about anyone outside a boardroom. What the hell do you want from me?”

She folded her arms, more to hide the erratic rise and fall of her chest than for any other purpose. “I don't want anything from you. Just let me pass.”

“How about a nightcap first.”

“We've just had brandy.”

He pushed away from the frame. “For God's sake, Thia.”

She went to squeeze past him. He simply turned, edging her back against the frame.

“Get out of my way.”

“Why?” he said, pushing against her. “You're constantly in mine. Digging about this, nagging about that.”

“I don't nag.” She tried to keep her eyes on his chest, but some malevolent force had other ideas and their gazes met. If she hadn't had the frame for support, Thia knew she would have fallen back. How could a man so complex, so difficult, have eyes like that? How could he make her want him, even when she knew it was so not in her best interests to want him?

Finn placed his hand on the frame, effectively trapping her.

Her stomach gave one long unsteady roll. “I don't like you,” she felt compelled to say again. “I really don't like you.”

A Temporary Arrangement is available now from The Wild Rose Press

Find out more about Tricia at her website.

Until later....take care and be blessed.

Saturday Spotlight - Keena Kincaid

Please join me in welcoming back, Keena Kincaid with her book, Art of Love!

Keena grew up on an Ohio farm slightly to the left of nowhere and learned to read by picking words out of an old history book that vividly recounted the past through short stories centered on children of the age: The Grecian slave boy. The girl from Pompeii. The knight’s squire in England.

The stories stayed with her. After honing her writing skills as a newspaper reporter and editor, she switched to public relations and began writing fiction. When not working or writing romance, Keena regales her niece and nephews with stories of quick-thinking ladies, mathematically challenged knights, and ill-mannered dragons that chew with their mouths open.

Abigail d'Alene has been sinfully in love with learning all her life. Now a widow, she has the means and freedom to indulge in her passion. Pretending to be Abelard, a fifteen-year-old boy from an outlying village, she heads to the Latin Quarter of Paris and the abbey schools that will one day change the world.

Shocked by her ineptitude at masquerading as a boy, Alain of Huntly Woods takes the young “Abelard” under his protection until she recovers her sense and goes home. But her audacity, intelligence and refusal to compromise spark enough friction between them to burn through his cold logic and carefully laid plans. In Paris as a spy for Henry II, Alain has sold his soul to the Angevin devil in exchange for the king's promise of an heiress, land and power.

As his good intentions bring him unexpected passion, he struggles to find a way to have it all. Then he discovers Abigail's uncle, confessor to King Louis VII of France, plots against the English king, and Alain must choose between protecting his king or the woman he loves beyond all reason.

Excerpt:
Abigail blinked against the cold, sickly morning that invaded the room. Frost coated the broken windowpane, and a draft eased its way inside, as unwanted as the dawn. The air that bit at her cheek smelled faintly of smoke. Pulling the blanket over her face, she burrowed into the solid warmth beside her. It shifted slightly, threw an arm around her waist and pulled her against hot skin and solid muscles.

Abigail jerked fully awake. Her stomach pitched as she remembered where she was, who she was with, and what they had done. Mon Dieu, what was I thinking? Lifting Alain’s hand from her waist, she edged away from his embrace and sat up. The frigid air rushed over her shoulders, shocking her skin. A sleepy groan sounded to her left, and the arm returned to her waist.

“Good morrow,”€ Alain said in a raw voice. He blinked at her with a warm, sleepy expression that invited her to repeat last night. “How did you sleep?”

“Well.”€
Something in her voice erased the easy smile. Slightly more awake, he propped himself up on an elbow. The left side of his face was bruised, marred by the cut and traces of blue paste.

She looked at the wall behind the headboard, then at him. His intense silver gaze never left her face. “Abigail?”

“Nothing. Everything.”€ Her stomach knotted and twisted. She had a lover. She’d never had a lover before, and now she had one. She had no idea what that meant or why her thoughts kept tripping over hidden fears that this would end badly. Maybe not banished to a convent badly, but badly all the same. “We should not have done this,” she whispered, barely aware that she spoke as her mind tried to catch the supple fright that congealed her blood. “What were we thinking?”

“Thinking does not accompany passion if you do it right.” He sat up and raked a hand through his tangles. The blanket pooled around his hips. He was naked. As was she, she realized. His gaze felt like a beam of light on her bare body, exposing legs, breasts, and belly. She reached for the blanket, still soaked with his heat. “Really, Abigail, there is no need to blush like a virgin.” His eyes went from warm to icy. “Obviously, we have both done this before.”

ART OF LOVE (ISBN: 1-60154-381-6) is available in both print and e-book formats from The Wild Rose Press, Amazon and other booksellers. €

Hope you've enjoyed this week's Spotlight - check back next week for another special guest!

Until later....take care, Be Blessed and remember.....the power of life and death are in the tongue....what are you saying?


Saturday Spotlight - Christy French

Hello Again!

Christy French joins us one more time with her book, The Bodyguard and the Rock Star

Born and raised in the South, award winning, internationally published author and poet Christy Tillery French loves to write about quirky Southern women and has published six books to date: Chasing Horses, Wayne's Dead, Chasing Demons, The Bodyguard, The Bodyguard and the Show Dog, Book 2 of the Bodyguard Series, and The Bodyguard and the Rock Star, Book 3 of the Bodyguard Series. Chasing Secrets will be published 10/08. French resides on a mini-farm in Powell, TN, with her husband, four dogs and two cats. Avid boaters, she and her husband are restoring a 1965 47’ wooden Trojan Cabin Cruiser. In addition, Christy enjoys working in her flowerbeds and vegetable gardens, horseback riding, camping and, of course, reading. She is a volunteer with Wolf Creek Weimaraner Rescue and donates proceeds from her book sales to this group as well as the local animal shelter. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, the Guppies and Tennessee Mountain Writers.

Protection specialist Natasha Chamberlain thinks guarding popular English rock star Giki during a tour of the Southern states will be easy and loads of fun, but she couldn’t be more wrong. In no time at all, she finds herself bogged down in Giki’s crazy world of sex, drugs, shoplifting and an uncontrollable sweet tooth. If that's not bad enough, Giki is being hunted by a ruthless cyber-stalker intent on putting an end to her career.
When Natasha is shot after the first concert, her fiancé, Jonce Striker, steps in. Determined to keep Natasha safe, he sends his best men, Pitt and Bigun, to watch over her. Striker wants Natasha to marry him and give up her dangerous line of work, but he's having trouble convincing her of that fact.

Natasha's torn between her love for Striker and her desire to do her job. Will she give in to Striker’s demands and forget about her profession? Or will she stay with Giki and do whatever it takes to protect her? The choice is obvious to Natasha, but will she live to regret it?

EXCERPT: Fragrant flowers pelted the clustered group as they made their way toward the idling bus. Behind wooden barriers, fans chanted, “Giki,” the name of the rock star they had paid precious dollars to watch perform that night’s concert. Natasha walked close to the rock star, her eyes scanning all directions in search of potential threats to her client. She fought the urge to duck her head, hoping any roses thrown would be thornless. Although the screaming voices conveyed frenzy, the crowd remained behind the posted barricade, and Natasha allowed herself a moment’s relief. So far, the concert had gone smoothly and it looked like this gig was going to be not only easy, but fun.

White, cottony fabric smacked into her face, entangled in her hair and around her neck. Natasha peeled it away, trying not to breathe in. What was that smell? Bile rose in her throat when she realized she held a large pair of men’s jockeys in her hands. With a shriek, she dropped the underwear and swiped her face with her jacket sleeve, making phhht noises with her mouth. She froze when she noticed the others stuttering to a halt—watching her. This was not how a professional bodyguard reacted. She should be ready for anything.

“Keep moving.” Natasha gestured for the group to close rank, continue onward. She thrust out one hand as she strode along. “Somebody give me some liquor.” A silver flask slapped into her palm. She unscrewed the top, tilted her head back, and splashed the contents of the phial over her face. She held her breath to keep from inhaling the fumes as the sour odor of whiskey wafted over her. Damn, as potent as this stuff smelled, it had to have some heavy alcohol content, should kill any living germs. She poured the brown liquid on her hands and scrubbed her lips with her fingers. She swallowed hard, her stomach churning at the thought of what might have been on the underwear. No way was she going to do such a sissy-ass thing as throw up. A bodyguard never displayed weakness in front of others. She shoved the flask in her jacket pocket and picked up her pace.

Heat pierced her thigh a fraction of a second before a loud pop sounded nearby. Her leg gave way beneath her and she lurched to the side. She reached out to steady herself, locked onto Giki’s arm. The rock star stumbled and both went down, Natasha landing on top.

Warm fluid trickled down Natasha’s leg, pain flared along her thigh. Her hand explored her jeans, where a jagged hole oozed blood. Shock surged through her body like a jolt of electricity. She needed to get Giki out of here—now! The hard, rigid feel of her firearm as she pulled it free helped calm her rising panic. She struggled to stand, forcing her leg to move, and bit down hard on the inside of her cheek when the world began to tilt beneath her. The coppery taste of blood filled her mouth, but it worked: images sharpened and her mind cleared. Using her body as a shield, she helped Giki to her feet.

One hand gripped her gun pointed at the ground, the other clutched Giki’s arm. “Move.” Cameras strobed in the darkness, fans converged on them in a rush. “Now!” She pushed Giki toward the bus.

Once inside, Natasha collapsed on the floor. Her eyes could not maintain focus—a buzzing sound filled her head. A man yelled, “Call 911,” his voice bleeding pitch, fading away. Blackness descended over her, as dark and impenetrable as an executioner’s hood.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Looks like another winning story from Christy! Find out more information about Christy and her writing at http://www.christytilleryfrench.com/ or www.authorsden.com/christytfrench

Well folks, that wraps up another Saturday Spotlight! Join me again next week when Keena Kincaid visits again!

Until later....take care and be Blessed!

Special Guest - Roni Adams!

Good Morning!

Please welcome Roni Adams back one more time with her upcoming release, Trouble in Texas, book 3 in the Double B series!

A fling with Charli Boyd would be the biggest mistake small town vet, Dr. Grant Clark could make, but as Charli explains “what fun is life if you don’t make a mistake every now and then?”

This wild, very hot and sexy read follows the antics of the redheaded Charli Boyd as she attempts to convince Grant Clark that life can’t always be about work; you need to live a little too, but will it actually be “good time” Charli who ends up losing her heart this time?

Excerpt: “I’m Charli.”

Grant felt like he’d been sucker punched. This vixen, the one who hit on him last night, was going to be in his office every day—looking like that—for six long weeks. But even worse was the sudden fast realization that not only was Beth’s friend supposed to help in the office but she was also the bridesmaid partnered with him for this weekend’s wedding. “You’re Charli Boyd?”

The red head smiled and wiggled her eyebrows. “In the flesh.”

“Do you always pick up strangers in bars?”

Charli set down the folders she was carrying and picked up his coffee mug. She took a long drink and handed it to him. Her fingers brushed his as he automatically reached for it. A spicy scent drifted to him and she looked him in the eye. “You’re not a stranger and I didn’t pick you up because you ran away.”

Grant couldn’t stop watching the way her hips swayed with her filing. He took a long drink of his coffee. She knew who he was last night. She’d been playing games. But why? To see how far she could push him?

“My helping out in the office isn’t going to be a problem, is it?” She turned and faced him as if shocked that it would even be a concern.

Yes it was a problem! How was he supposed to get any work done if she was bent over his filing cabinet in those tight shorts? And where were her shoes? Why did her red tipped toes look so sexy? No way could he focus on his job with this siren here.

“Actually, um, yeah it’s a problem. No offense, Trouble, er, Ms. Boyd, but I was hoping for someone a little less, well--” He ran his hand along the back of his neck trying to find the right words.

Her eyes lit up and she glided across the room to his side. It took every inch of willpower he possessed not to back away from her as she advanced on him.

“Are you saying you can’t control yourself around me? You certainly had no trouble resisting me last night.” Her hands found their way to the front of his t-shirt and splayed across his chest. She lifted one long finger and traced the curve of his bottom lip. Her body was close enough that he could smell her perfume and feel her heat but not feel anything else. It was frustrating and stimulating at the same time.

“I have a lot of work to do. I’m very busy and I don’t like distractions.” He hated that his voice almost cracked making him sound whiney.

She was close to the same height as he was and she lifted her elbow and rested it on his shoulder. Grant drew a deep breath and tried not to notice her roundness nestled against him.

Her eyes danced with delight. “I’m sure you can keep things professional.”

“It’s not me I’m worried about.”

She threw her head back and laughed and pushed away from him. “What if I promise to not chase you around the office?”

Grant stepped behind his desk as if it was a shield.

Charli lifted one hip and settled on the edge and crossed her legs. She swung her foot and his gaze caught on her aquamarine toe ring. Who the heck wore rings on their toes?

Sounds like trouble all right LOL! Trouble in Texas will be released in July. Along with her Double B series, Roni is the author of Not Exactly Strangers, a FREE READ from The Wild Rose Press. She also has stories in 3 anthologies - also from The Wild Rose Press. Find out about ALL of her books at her website, http://roniadams.com/

Well folks, hope you've enjoyed my special guest this month. Don't forget to drop by every Saturday to learn about another great author!

Until later....take care and Be Blessed!

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!" TM

Special Guest - Roni Adams!

Roni Adams is back with her book, To Tame a Cowgirl The First Book in the Double B Series!



Blurb: One stubborn cowgirl, one more stubborn cowboy, lots of chemistry and a cast of characters that will make you wish you could pull up a chair and visit. Can Buck Weston convince his long time buddy that she's the only woman he wants by his side and in his bed or will Sara marry his brother, Cord, in order to obtain control of their Cattle Enterprise that is the Double B?

Excerpt: “I said I dare you.” Sara scooted to the edge of the sofa and reached out for him but Buck was smart enough to step back so she couldn’t touch him. She came off the couch in one fluid movement and walked towards him. She wasn’t wobbling or swaying and he would have sworn she was stone cold sober if it wasn’t for the stupid stuff coming out of her mouth. “Are you going to be the first one of us to back down from a challenge?”

She moved steadily towards him and he retreated until his back hit the wall next to the door to his bedroom.

“This isn’t like that. This is nothing like that.” Bucks hook his head.

“Yes it is. I want to do something with you and you’re backing down..”


His head spun. What the hell was she trying to pull? Did Charli put her up to this? She would never have thought to do this on her own. “What did you and Charli talk about tonight?”

Sara’s hands were on his waist. Her fingers slid along the top of his jeans. The open snap made them loose and he bit back a moan when her fingers flittered to his zipper and drew it downward. He pushed her hand away.

She shrugged. “This and that, nothing important.” She shook her hair back and looked up at him. “Look Buck, we’re going to do this, tonight. We can do it the easy way or the hard way.”

Buck laughed. “What are you talking about? How are you going to make me?”

Sara raised one eyebrow and gave a mysterious half smile. She pressed her body into him, tilted her head way back and looked into his eyes. “I want to do this with you and if you turn me down I’ll know you were all talk that night behind the barn and you were too chicken to go further than a kiss. I’m telling you straight up that I’m not drunk. I know exactly what I’m doing and who I’m doing it with and I won’t be mad or regret it in the morning. Now are you in? Or are you all talk?”

Ooohhh....hot, hot HOT! In fact, I'm blushing here LOL!

To Tame a Cowgirl is available now in ebook and print from The Wild Rose Press.

Remember folks, Roni will be back next week with another of her books and don't forget, Saturday Spotlight - this week's guest is Teri Wilson.

Until later.....be Blessed!
PamT

Saturday Spotlight - Danielle Thorne

Boy what an exciting week!

Today's spotlight is Awe Struck author, Danielle Thorne and her book The Privateer.

Bio:

Danielle Thorne is an avid writer, genealogist and researcher. In the late 90’s she moderated for the WritersPad community, and enjoyed editing and reviewing for Bookideas. Some of her work has been showcased by Espresso Fiction, Fiction of the Day, StorySouth, The Nantahala Review, Cenotaph, and The Virginia Parent. She won an Honorable Mention in Writer’s Digest 2006 writing competition. Two novels, THE PRIVATEER, and contemporary romance, TURTLE SOUP, will be available at Awe-Struck Books in 2009.

Visit her at http://www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com/

Blurb:
Julius Bertrand secretly privateers for the British Crown. The former pirate thinks a wife will complete his masquerade, until a bounty is put on his head.

The reign of piracy is over in the Caribbean, or so it’s believed until diamonds are discovered in Brazil. Despite the cover-up, Captain Julius Bertrand begins to hear whispers. The Spanish guardacostas are dumping log books, and a new French pirate is on the prowl. Distracted by an avaricious woman he could never love, and the beautiful Kate O’Connell who doesn’t need him, he tries to untangle the web of mysterious cargo someone in the New World wants kept secret. When Bertrand’s pirating past returns with the explosive force of a sweeping broadside, he finds he must sacrifice everything his respectable life has brought him, in order to save what matters most.

Sounds like a wonderful, exciting read!

Well folks, hope you enjoyed this edition of Saturday Spotlight. Come back every week for a new author!

Until later....take care and Be Blessed!

PamT

Special Guest - Roni Adams!

Hello Folks,

Please welcome Roni Adams in her first of a weekly visit talking about her books!

Roni Adams currently resides in a tiny hamlet in Upstate New York. She’s been married for 24 years and has three sons, ages 13, 19, 21. Although, she’s been writing since she was 7 and has the “wonderful” short stories to prove it, she admits that she took a long leave of absence after getting married. When she finally returned to writing, it was as if a dam had burst and stories flew out of her into the computer. She sold several short stories to publishers Dorchester and Adams Media where she was published in True Confessions, True Romance, and A Cup of Comfort for Women in Love.

She released her first novel, “Beauty and the Geek” with The Wild Rose Press in the fall of 2007 and has steadily had two to three publications out each year since that time. She loves writing cowboy stories the best and is in the middle of a six book series called “The Double B”. Two of the books are already out with The Wild Rose Press and a third is due ou in July.

Roni also is excited to be part of a Yellow Rose anthology set in Wayback, Texas due to be released in June. “I got to write a great story alongside my two buddies, Stacy Dawn and Cindy Pape. It was a lot of fun and a honor to write with such wonderful authors. “Return to Wayback” is due out in June from the Yellow Rose line.

These days Roni juggles her time between writing and helping out other authors. “I’m a firm believer in the circle of writing; the experienced writers and authors have an obligation to help the newer writers as they come along and as you move through the circle. If it wasn’t for my early critique partners such as Jo Barrett, and my friends at the San Antonio Romance Author’s chapter, I never would have learned what I’ve learned and gotten his far.”

You can contact Roni at roni@roniadams.com She loves to hear from readers. Her blog is also available at http://www.roniadams.blogspot.com/


Now a little about Beauty and the Geek!

This book is a fun, sassy romance between two old friends. It has received fantastic reviews from several review sites such as Night Owl Romance which gave it five owls and Two Lips review site which gave it 4 lips. As my first full length novel to release in publication I couldn’t be more thrilled!

Blurb: Louie and Becky have known each other their whole lives but when a special project throws them together will Becky discover that Louie has more to offer her than just free computer repairs?

Beauty and the Geek -Available in ebook and print from The Wild Rose Press!

Well Folks, hope you enjoyed Roni's first visit....join me next Thursday (11th) when she returns with another of her books and don't forget this week's Saturday Spotlight with Danielle Thorne!

Until later....take care and Be BLESSED!
Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!" TM

Saturday Spotlight - Amber Leigh Williams

Hello Again and welcome to another edition of Saturday Spotlight!

Today's guest has graced us before so please welcome back, Amber Leigh Williams with her book, A Summer's Hope!

First, a little about Amber.....Amber Leigh Williams is a member of RWA and secretary of the Gulf Coast Chapter of RWA. Her first novel Fox & Hound was published in February with Red Rose Publishing and received an "Outstanding Read" review with Simply Romance. She enjoys being a stay-at-home writer mostly because she loves spending as much time as possible with the three Labradors she shares with her husband, Jacob. She’s lived in the South all her life and currently resides in Alabama. Contact Amber at amber@amberleighwilliams.com. Visit Amber at http://www.amberleighwilliams.com/.

Blurb: Briar has spent half her life upholding the family business. As another summer rolls around, it looks like her luck is running dry and she’s dangerously close to losing the only thing that matters, Hanna’s Inn, her late mother’s bed and breakfast. Amidst deep financial difficulty, a shaky relationship with her estranged father, and a non-existent social life, hope is all she has left.

Enter Cole, a new guest at Hanna’s. Fresh from the turmoil of a bitter divorce and haunted by his mistakes, he’s desperate for escape. In a matter of weeks he captures the lonely innkeeper’s heart and together they discover a passion as hot as the southern sun and as unstoppable as the bay tide.

Do they dare trust this wellspring of hope they’ve found in each other’s arms?

Excerpt: He watched her for a moment, his eyes reflecting all the pain she felt. When he reached for her, his fingertips brushed over her hair.

She looked at him, surprise fluttering past the sadness. His eyes were so tender, so sympathetic. She wanted to dive right in and wallow in them.

She turned away and moved out of his reach. She couldn’t be weak. She refused to be. She’d mourned enough for what she’d lost all those years ago. It wasn’t about to happen again. Not when everything was at stake. “I thought you were going out with Adrian tonight.”

He dropped his hand. “She couldn’t find anyone to watch Kyle.”

She nodded shortly, staring at the horizon behind the western shore. “She’s been mistreated before. It ate at her for a long, long time but she came through in the end.” She turned her gaze back on him. “If you hurt her like he did, if Olivia doesn’t cut out your heart, I will. But pray she does it because I’ll use a spoon.”

Shocked, he stared at her for a long moment. Then he let out a breath. “We’re just friends.”

“You don’t have to lie—”

“I’m serious. She knows it and I know it. We were friends before and we are again now.”

“But you’ve been on two dates….”

“They weren’t dates. When we’re not talking about old times, all I ever talk about is…”

She waited as he hesitated then looked away. “What?” she asked curiously.

He slowly brought his eyes back to hers. Dragging in a bracing breath, he brushed a nervous hand through his hair. “All I ever talk about when I’m with her is you, Briar.”

Her eyes widened. “Me?”

“Yeah. You.” He looked away again. “I’m not interested in Adrian. The only one who intrigues me around here, who pulls me in, is you.”

Now she was really having trouble breathing. “Are you sure?”

He laughed at her stunned expression and took a step forward. “Pretty sure. I can’t get you out of my head. When I’m not with you, I’m thinking about you. When I’m sleeping, I’m dreaming about you. You’re always there. I can’t get you out.” He closed the distance between them, lifting a hand to her hair again. This time he brushed it through. “I don’t want to get you out.”

She gulped hard. “I-I can’t get a breath.”

A Summer's Hope is available now @ The Wild Rose Press!

Saturday Spotlight - Karen Cogen

It's that time again....time for another Saturday Spotlight!

This week's guest is Karen Cogan and her book, Love Never Lies.

Karen Cogan has a background in elementary education and has written children’s books, (one of which recently won the Moonbeam Award for best multicultural story), as well as many articles and stories. She has novels published in the writes inspirational, contemporary and historical romance genres. Karen lives in the Southwest, where she enjoys the opportunity for outdoor activities with her husband, children, and enough assorted pets to fill a small zoo.

Julie had trust issues from a previous romance. Therefore, when she met the new church counselor, romance was the last thing on her mind. Yet, something about him captivated her. He was gentle and fun loving, patient, and had a good sense of humor. And, he was a widower with a young daughter who tugged at Julie’s maternal instincts. He seemed to be a good father and a devoted believer. In spite of herself, Julie was falling in love. She never imagined that a crisis would arise and that all the traits she loved might drive a wedge between them. Could he be trusted or would he break her heart?

Excerpt: “Mr. Riley, I don’t think you’ve met my sister-in-law, Julie Price. Can you believe she teaches four-year-olds every Sunday even though she’s single and doesn’t have any kids of her own?”

Julie fought the urge to elbow Gina for her un-requested offering of information. Yet, as the counselor engulfed her hand in his warm grip, she had to fight the urge to like him.

She didn’t want to like him. She didn’t even want to talk to him. And yet, when he released her hand, she felt an odd twinge of disappointment.

Love Never Lies is available now from White Rose Publishing.

That's all folks....join me next week when Amber Leigh Williams returns!

Until later....take care, BE BLESSED and remember...when the going gets tough, the tough get on their knees.

PamT

Saturday Spotlight - Liana Laverentz!

Hi There!

Welcome to another edition of Saturday Spotlight with returning author, Liana Laverentz and her book, Thin Ice.

Liana Laverentz is the author of two contemporary romances with The Wild Rose Press, Thin Ice and Jake’s Return. Thin Ice is a 2007 New Jersey Romance Writers Golden Leaf Award winner, a 2008 EPPIE winner for best contemporary romance, and was a nominee for Best Romance of 2007 at Long and Short Reviews. Jake’s Return is also a finalist in the 2008 Golden Leaf contest. Her next release, Ashton’s Secret, a murder mystery romance, will be available from The Wild Rose Press June 26th, 2009. For more information, go to http://www.lianalaverentz.com/

Blurb: The last thing Emily Jordan needs in her life is a man, and certainly not one who uses his fists in his work. Her father hit her mother, and Emily’s already made the mistake of marrying a man who seemed to be a dream come true, but proved to be no better. An emergency room doctor and volunteer at a women’s shelter, she sees more than enough of the results of violence in the world, and has no use for anybody who contributes to it.

When she treats Eric Cameron in her ER after a bar brawl, her opinions of men in general seem to be confirmed. It isn’t until she meets Eric outside her eight-year-old son’s school after Eric gives a talk against using drugs and alcohol, that Emily learns he’s a hockey player, and her son’s newest idol. Robbie has been begging her to let him play hockey for months, and has now enlisted his new friend Eric, captain of the struggling Minneapolis Saints, to help him convince Emily to let him play.

Eric Cameron is more than willing to be Robbie’s ally. He’s never met a woman who intrigued him so much. Emily Jordan has it all…brains and beauty, a home of her own, a career she excels at, a son who adores her, and loving friends and family to help her bring it all together in a way Eric has longed for ever since he was a kid living over the ramshackle bar his mom ran when his dad ran out on them. He realized early on that hockey was going to be his only way out of spending his life busting up barfights.

Still, Eric was raised to respect and protect women, and this feisty, independent woman who wants nothing to do with him—and needs nothing from him--totally confounds him. The memory of her healing hands that first night drives him to find the key to Emily’s heart, because he knows that once he wins it, he will have everything he’s ever wanted in life. But for him to succeed would mean that Emily would have to give up everything she has—her home, her career, her independence--and subject her life to the whims of the NHL….for a hockey player’s life is anything but settled.

Will Eric be able to win her heart despite her opposition to the only life he’s ever known? Or when the season ends will he move on again--alone?

Excerpt

A shiver snaked its way down her spine. The temperature in the rink was frigid. If she didn’t want to turn into an ice statue, she’d have to get moving. The song on the radio ended. A more familiar tune wafted on the air, making her feel less out of sorts. “I see. Well, maybe we should have invited Melissa along today. I could use a lesson or two.”

“Then I’m the man you’re looking for,” an amused masculine voice said from behind her. “Skating lessons are my specialty.”

Oh no. Not him again. Not now. Am I being punished for something specific, Lord, or are you just playing with me for the fun of it?

“Thanks for calling, Sport. I see what you mean. We’ve got a real rookie on our hands. White knuckles and all.”

Emily whipped her head around. “Robbie called you?”

Eric studied her face before answering, as if gauging her mood. “I gave him my number when we were at Paisan’s. Told him to keep in touch.”

Robbie had had the man’s phone number all this time and not said a word? Emily wanted to cry. She no longer knew her son at all.

Eric misunderstood her upset. “Hey, it’s not so bad. Just give me your hands and—”

She yanked them out of his reach, not caring if she fell. “No! Don’t you understand? Either of you? I don’t want to skate with you. I don’t want to have anything to do with you.”

The flash of hurt in his eyes made her look away, only to find a matching hurt in Robbie’s face. Emily felt ashamed of herself, and embarrassed for all of them. What was it about this man that brought out the worst in her?

“Just once, Emily,” Eric said quietly. “Just once around the rink. If you don’t like it, we can stop. And if you do, as soon as you’re able to skate alone, I’ll leave you to it. It shouldn’t take long. Fair enough?”

Still too embarrassed to meet his eyes, she looked at his chest. He wore a black turtleneck beneath an open hip-length parka, and looked as big and tall as a mountain. Nobody, but nobody was going to skate over him. The thought was reassuring.

She lifted her head, and met his eyes beneath the brim of his black baseball cap. He hadn’t shaved in at least a day or two, and looked a little scruffy, but she understood he was trying not to be recognized again. Suddenly she appreciated his making the trip out here, risking the exposure, to help her out.

“All right. And I’m sorry for...for overreacting. I’m nervous about...” she nodded in the direction of the speeding skaters. “...all of this.”

Eric’s expression gentled in understanding as he held out his hands. “Don’t be. You can handle anything.”

With a dry, disbelieving look, she laid her hands in his. He squeezed them reassuringly and a comforting warmth seeped into her limbs.

“That’s it, Mom. You’ll be all right now. Eric won’t let you fall.”

“He’s got that right,” Eric said, his dark brown eyes not leaving hers.

Emily suddenly wished she was tall, blonde, graceful and on the other side of thirty, like Miranda Manzelrod. Or at least that she’d put on makeup and worn something other than her oldest jeans and a washed out green sweater beneath an equally worn parka. But she’d planned on falling a lot, so...

Self-consciously she looked down at her scuffed rental skates. “What do I do first?”

Eric’s hand slid up to encircle her wrists beneath her parka sleeves. “Just relax and let me lead the way, okay?”

She took a deep breath to calm her sudden attack of butterflies. His skin was so warm against hers, his touch so sure and self-confident. “I’ll try.”

Eric told Robbie to stay close to the edge of the rink, and started skating backward, gently pulling Emily with him. She let him tow her along, watching her feet slide rigidly across the ice, feeling like a barge behind a tugboat. Whenever she faltered, Eric’s fingers tightened on her wrists, setting off little fires along her nerve endings. She didn’t pull away, though. She couldn’t afford to without falling flat on her face.

Instead she concentrated on his murmured instructions. With words alone he coaxed the stiffness from her muscles. She’d begun to think she had a handle on this skating business, when Eric eased them to a stop.

She looked up at him in surprise. “What?”

“We’ve finished our lap.”

Already? She looked around and saw they were indeed at their point of departure. Robbie was practicing figure eights in the area at the end of the rink set aside for beginners and small children, safely out of the flow of traffic.

“Want to give it another shot?”

She met the hopeful look in his eyes and couldn’t help but wonder if he was talking about more than skating. “If you don’t mind moving at a snail’s pace,” she said quietly.

His eyes darkened, and then he smiled, a slow, soft smile that made her feel deliciously special. “For you, anything.”

Before she knew it, they were moving again. Around and around they coasted, Eric skating backwards, Emily feeling more secure with each lap. It seemed her earlier assumption had been on target. Eric’s size was a major deterrent to those who rode roughshod over the less skilled. Even when he eased her into the mainstream of traffic no one came near them. As skaters sped by on either side of them, she looked up at him and grinned.

“I think I’ve got it!” She hit a rut in the ice and stumbled. Without missing a beat, Eric caught her. Before she could blink, he’d flipped her around so that both of them were facing forward. “What are you—?”

“Relax. I won’t hurt you. Now just follow my lead. One step at a time.”

He nudged her forward, right arm around her waist, left hand holding hers. Emily had no choice but to relax or be run over. Forcing herself to ignore the feeling of being surrounded by him, she concentrated on his steady, “Left, right, left, right.”

Soon they were moving in tandem to the music of Faith Hill. Emily felt a chill on her back as Eric gently released her.

She started skating alone without realizing it.

“You’re doing it, Mom! You’re skating!” Robbie shouted in glee as she glided past the practice area.

She looked at him over her shoulder, and tripped. The next thing she knew, Eric and his magnificent reflexes had scooped her into his arms and was skating over to where Robbie waited, near to bursting with excitement. Wrapping an arm around Eric’s parka-padded shoulders, Emily laughed in relief...and pure giddiness. Being swept off her feet by the man was heady stuff indeed.

“Not too shabby for a first-timer,” Eric said with a grin, and set her down next to Robbie.

Damn, but she looked good, he thought, giving Emily’s shoulders a light hug before he released her. Felt good, too. She smiled up at him, and the unexpected warmth of it nearly knocked him flat. With her dancing green eyes and silky auburn hair swept up in a loose topknot instead of her usual no-nonsense bun, she looked relaxed, approachable. Kissable.

He cleared his throat and tried to clear his mind. The idea of kissing Emily Jordan was a little too much to handle right now. “Now we need to work on a few technical points, and you’ll be all set.”

For the next ten minutes he drilled her on stops and starts. He loved how her little pink tongue curled out over her upper lip when she concentrated. He also couldn’t decide which he enjoyed more, watching her skate away from him, catching tantalizing glimpses of the bottom half of her sweetly curved backside beneath her hip-length parka, or watching her return. Either way, her balance and coordination were exceptional.

Finally he pronounced her ready to skate solo, and with a determinedly casual arm around her shoulders, turned her toward the flow of circling skaters. “Now get out there and show us your stuff,” he ordered, and dropped his hand to the small of her back to nudge her forward.

“Oh, no. I couldn’t.” She looked up at him over her shoulder, her green eyes wide with trepidation. A boisterous group of skaters swept by and she backed up, her shoulders bumping his chest. A thrill shot straight to Eric’s heart. Whether she realized it or not, Emily Jordan was warming up to him.

“You just did,” he pointed out softly.

Thin Ice is available Now from The Wild Rose Press!

Well folks, that about wraps up another edition of Saturday Spotlight!

Join me again next week when we host another great author!

Until later....take care, be Blessed and remember ~ as long as you live, Testify to Love!

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!" (TM)

Saturday Spotlight - Wendy Davy!

Hello Friends,

Please welcome back friend & fellow White Rose author, Wendy Davy and her book Drake's Retreat.

You may remember that Wendy has been hooked on reading romance novels ever since she picked up the first one over twenty years ago. That's also when her imagination started to roll and it hasn't stopped since. When she finally realized that God put the desire to write into her heart, she knew her dreams of becoming an author could turn into a reality.

Wendy is a member of the Romance Writers of America and continue to be an avid reader. When not writing, she spends her energy chasing around her beautiful young children, enjoying her own real-life hero, and watching movies with friends.

Blurb: The Adventure Begins…In the Heart of the Wilderness.
Maggie Reynolds needs a place to hide. Drake’s Retreat is the perfect solution. Nestled deep in the backcountry of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Drake Strong’s couple’s retreat is the ideal location for Maggie to regain control of her shattered life. But, convincing the intimidating resort owner to allow her to attend the retreat, without a partner, is the first of many obstacles she must overcome in the heart of the wilderness.

Drake Strong’s responsibility to his guests includes keeping them safe from the dangers they may encounter at his retreat. When Maggie shows up alone and unprepared for his remote resort, his responsibility to her becomes much more personal than he had ever intended.

Excerpt:
"You'd better get settled and ready for supper," Drake's voice cut into her thoughts as he mysteriously appeared behind her. "It's getting close to five and Aunt Cammie always has the meal ready on time."

Maggie just about jumped out of her new boots and twisted around. "I didn't see you behind me."

"You should be more alert. I could have been a bear," he growled as he carried the crate of supplies past her.

"You are a bear, Mr. Strong," Maggie made sure she spoke loud and clear as she posted her hands on her hips.

Drake immediately stopped and dropped the crate to the ground. He stood tall and held his back rigid to her for a moment. When he turned to face her, he had a smile on his lips that didn't quite reach his eyes. He slowly stepped toward her and she had to make a conscious effort not to retreat.

"I should warn you, Maggie," he stepped within the realm of her personal space and continued, "As your host, I can make your stay here pleasurable. Or, I can make it a living nightmare. Which do you prefer?"

Maggie closed the gaping hole in her mouth to speak. "P-probably the former, Mr. Strong. I mean Drake. I apologize. My runaway mouth has gotten me into trouble more than once."

Drake's eyes lowered to her lips. "I don't doubt that for a minute." His eyes turned a shade darker as they made their way back to hers.

She moistened her dry lips. He watched.

Maggie fought hard to find her voice. "I've been a bit on edge lately. With all that's been happening…," Maggie trailed off. "Maybe we can start over."

"You're mistaken. There is no we," Drake said as he turned and picked up the crate. He walked away without a backward glance.

Oh boy...sounds like another great story from White Rose Publishing! My word but The Wild Rose Press and it's sister company White Rose Publishing is taking the industry by storm!

Hope you enjoyed this weeks edition of Saturday Spotlight. Hope to see you again next week.

Until later....take care, stay in touch, be BLESSED and remember - as long as you live, testify to LOVE~

PamT

Saturday Spotlight - Amber Polo

Hello Again Friends,

Well, I thought slowing down on the blog posts would make my life less hectic, but as usual, other things jump in its place LOL!

This week please join me in welcoming back, TWRP author, Amber Polo and two of her stories with one major think in common....a wonderful cover artist, Nicola Martinez!

Now Nicola has done most of the covers of my White Rose books too, so I am more than excited about sharing Amber's stories From Latte to Love & Wired for Love with you. But first, here's a little about Amber.....

Bio: A recovering English major and librarian (two ways to make sure writing fiction is the last thing you’ll ever do) Amber turned to stories because she had no choice. Amber has lived more places than many people visit. From a career as a librarian to yoga teacher with a few stops in between, she most recently moved from Key Largo, Florida to Arizona near Sedona. She is a member of RWA and NARWA. You can find out more about Amber and her writing by visiting here website and/or blog.

From Latte to Love
High school poetry teacher, Elaine, writes paranormal fantasy romances. Brian is a brilliant computer game designer and hopeful science fiction writer. As these shy strangers steal glances over laptops and Starbucks’ lattes, will fantasy turn to romance? Can Elaine’s gentle but powerful white witch heroine, Tranquility, subdue Brian’s alpha male hero, Duke Starmaster? Can Elaine and Brian leave their imaginary worlds long enough to fall in love?

A perfect coffee break read. Sweeter than a honey frap.

Wired for Love
Hilarious technology love flash!

Two sexy geeks match wits in a hi-tech Cincinnati apartment. Penny Sizemore is trapped in a cyber prison of her own design until an enraged guru breaks the code and turns her carefully constructed platform upside down. Sensual, a little edgy, and very funny.

Both books sound incredibly cute and both are available from The Wild Rose Press!

Well Friends, that wraps up another issue of Saturday Spotlight. Please join me Wednesday for a special spotlight on fellow author Beth Trissel!

Until then....take care and Be Blessed!
PamT