SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE WINNERS!

I used the random number generator and it gave me numbers 28 - catslady and 23 - Helen L. Congratulations, ladies! Please email your mailing info to me at ljodamron@gmail.com, I'll pass it on to Jill. Your books will come directly from her. If I don't hear from catslady and Helen by Sat., October 2, I'll pull two more names.
Huge thanks to Jill for providing the two giveaway books, and thanks so much to everyone who entered! I loved seeing what your favorite "Jill" books were and have decided that I'm going to have to revisit some of them! It's difficult to choose a fave, but mine is still SERVING UP TROUBLE - I've reread that book so many times, I can recite several lines from it!


Laurie
xo

Melissa Schroeder's winner announced!

RHONDA VKD - you are the winner of the first two books in Melissa's "Harmless" series, signed in print! Congratulations! Please email Mel directly at melschro@aol.com with your mailing info so she can get your books out to you.
Thanks to Mel for great fun and conversation and thanks to all who visited while Mel was guesting!
Laurie

Jill Shalvis has a new release and it's, well, SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE! She's giving away two copies here!

Jill Shalvis has a new book releasing tomorrow, and I was fortunate enough to get an early look from Jill. Thanks to Jill's generosity, two of my readers here will win a copy. Thanks, Jill!

Maddie Moore’s whole life needs a makeover.
In one fell swoop, Maddie loses her boyfriend (her decision) and her job (so not her decision). But rather than drowning her sorrows in bags of potato chips, Maddie leaves L.A. to claim the inheritance left by her free-spirited mother–a ramshackle inn nestled in the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington.
Starting over won’t be easy. Yet Maddie sees the potential for a new home and a new career–if only she can convince her two half-sisters to join her in the adventure. But convincing Tara and Chloe will be difficult because the inn needs a big makeover too.
The contractor Maddie hires is a tall, dark-haired hottie whose eyes–and mouth–are making it hard for her to remember that she’s sworn off men. Even harder will be Maddie’s struggles to overcome the past, though she’s about to discover that there’s no better place to call home than Lucky Harbor.

Jill has a first chapter excerpt on her website - check it out!

My review:

When Maddie Moore loses her production company job in L.A., she decides to follow up on the invite to the Washington coast resort inn she has inherited with her two step-sisters. Maddie, who was raised by her father, wasn't especially close to her late mother and her sisters are more or less strangers to her. Her efforts at a new beginning get off to a rough start when she nearly runs over a fabulous looking biker on her way into town. She makes sure he's okay and then tries not to pay him much mind because although he is gorgeous with a capital "G" she has sworn off men. Seriously. No. More. Men.
Maddie and her sisters couldn't possibly be more different from one another if they tried. Each had a different father and were raised by those fathers, while their mother sowed her oats and lived free. The inn Maddie and her sisters, Tara and Chloe, have inherited is a little on the rough side, needing major repairs and even more major tender loving care, no easy task when they are all seriously light in the wallet. Maddie wants to connect with her now gone mother, and is desperate to make Lucky Harbor her home. She hopes with all her heart that she can convince her sisters to work with her to give running the inn a try but they're both proving to be a hard sell.

Jackson "Jax" Cullen, Maddie's near miss on the motorcycle, is intrigued by Maddie and wants to get to know her, charmed by her insistence that she's not interested in a relationship. Charmed isn't exactly the world that comes to his mind at the sparks that fly when they're together. When Jax discovers the secret behind Maddie's escape from her previous relationship, and considers the secret that he has neglected to tell her, he knows he's treading seriously rough water. He's hopeful he can change her mind into giving them a chance but fears that both of their hearts may end up broken.

I've told Jill at least twice that I seriously think readers will fall in love with her "Simply" series and the charm of the characters and the town. Lucky Harbor is one of those places where everyone knows you (and your business) and will do anything to help you out. Maddie puts heart and soul into everything she does and that is just one of the things about her that Jax finds irresistible. While Maddie is reluctant to enter into a relationship with Jax, his good-natured charm and kind, easygoing spirit are contagious. If only both weren't holding onto secrets from their past that threaten their future.

I highly recommend SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE to anyone who loved Jill's previous books and to anyone who is looking for a new romance author!

Next stop - Amazon - so you can order a copy! While you're at it, remember friends, family and neighbors who have fall birthdays - or if you need a hostess gift for that fall brunch or potluck, SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE would be perfect!



And I know you'll want to go ahead and preorder Tara's story in THE SWEETEST THING, coming soon in March, 2011. Yes, I know March seems forever away but trust me, it will be here before we know it and you'll be saying "Boy, Laurie was right, it *is* March already!

Preorder THE SWEETEST THING here!!

Now for the contest, it's going to be a quick one so pay attention! Leave a comment about your favorite of all of Jill's books. If you haven't read Jill's work (I'll be shaking my head in wonder, lol) it's ok, you're among friends here and can admit it - so long as you tell us which of her books you're most interested in reading! I'll draw two winners on Wednesday, 9/29. Be sure to stop back because I do not track down winners and I seriously dislike having to repeatedly rename winners. Jot a note on your calendar if you must, but be sure to stop back to see if you've won.

Thanks again, Jill, for the giveaway - you're the best!

Laurie

THE ICING ON THE CAKE winner

is AMMY BELLE. Congratulations! Please contact me with your mailing info at ljodamron@gmail.com by Monday so I can get your book in the mail to you. Thanks to everyone who commented on Alison's books. You've probably noticed that she's one of my absolute favorites and I want everyone to be familiar with her work!!
Laurie

The winner of Janice Maynard's Desire is .....

ESTELLA! Congratulations, Estella! Please contact me at ljodamron@gmail.com with your mailing info. If I don't hear from Estella by Sunday, I'll draw a new winner. Thanks to everyone who commented - I hope you'll go grab a copy for yourslf if you haven't already. Janice is an auto-buy for me; I've never been disappointed by any of her books.
Have a great Friday, everyone!
Laurie

Welcome, Melissa Schroeder!

Welcome, Melissa Schroeder!

Thanks so much for being my guest today to celebrate A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION! I'm giving readers an opportunity to ask you questions today, and thought I'd get the ball rolling - here are a handful of questions from me.

You've written a variety of books, do you have a favorite book or a favorite character?

What other authors do you enjoy reading? Are there any that you absolutely have to have when they have a new release?

You have two young daughters and a military husband, what family activities do you enjoy? Do your girls share your love of reading and writing? Any signs that there might be other Schroeder authors in the family?

Besides writing, what jobs have you held? Given the research you've done for books, are there any professions out there that especially intrigue you?

Okay readers, here's your chance to ask Melissa anything you want - within reason, of course! Here's a little more info about A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION, be sure to check it out!
A Little Harmless Obsession
Harmless #3
Samhain Publishing
Check out the TRAILER

What begins as a quest for submission becomes an unrelenting need for love.
May Aiona’s crush on sexy Evan Chambers is a bad habit that should be easy to break. It’s not like he-s ever noticed her. Looking for a safe place to release the reins of control and explore her curiosity about BDSM, May takes a friend up on an invitation to visit an exclusive bondage club-all she has to agree to is a public submission.
Evan can’t help but notice the exotically beautiful May. But despite his success, the dirty secrets of his past whisper that he’ll never be good enough for her. When Evan sees her standing in his club ready to submit to his best friend, he gives in to the thing he wants most-May as his sub. After their session, he knows one night will never be enough. But loving May isn’t easy for a man always ready to take charge. She might like to submit in the bedroom, but she doesn’t like anyone telling her what to do outside of it.
When May insists she-s not in any danger from the person seemingly obsessed with her, she ends up in the sights of a deranged stalker-with Evan possibly too far away to help.

Warning: This book contains sexy Hawaiian settings, crazy relatives, and a submission scene that leaves the heroine breathless and the hero frustrated. There are toys, bondage, and love scenes so hot, you’ll need ice water and a towel. Remember, it’s a Harmless story, so you know there’s nothing harmless about it.
~~~~~~~
An excerpt:
“If this ever got back to your father, he’d be furious.”
Her eyes narrowed and she tossed her hair over her shoulder. “And what are you going to tell him, Evan? ‘Oh, Mr. Aiona, by the way, I stripped your daughter and made her submit to me in public.’” She snorted. “Yeah, I can see that going over really well.”
Evan couldn’t respond. The image of what she’d just said popped into his mind and all the remaining blood headed south to his shaft. He could just imagine how she’d looked strapped to his bed, her body flushed with excitement, begging him for completion. His mouth went dry thinking of how it would feel to slide the flat of his tongue over her copper brown nipple. Not to mention sinking lower, pressing his mouth to her sex, tasting her, devouring her.
“Ha!”
Her voice brought him out of his fantasy with a jolt. He shook his head, trying to lose the image he’d conjured.
“I knew you wouldn’t have an answer to that, bra. Daddy would castrate you on the spot.”
That damn mouth of hers was going to be a problem. “You act odd for a woman who agreed to do this. Do you think you’re up to it?”
Another mistake. It seemed to be a night for them. May thrived on challenges. And, even knowing that, understanding that this would ruin their friendship, he couldn’t seem to stop himself.
“No problem. I can handle it. Can you?”
His inner warrior who had been clawing at his throat revolted at the thought. He should resist. It would be best just to grab her and drag her out of here. But he couldn’t. He wanted to touch, to sample, to know what she sounded like when she came. The need humming in his veins took over all rational thought.
“Do you actually think you’re up to it? Being stripped naked in front of a crowd of strangers? Are you ready to be watched as you lose yourself in submission?” he grated out.
Closing her eyes, she shivered, her body apparently reacting to the image he’d painted. Damn.
“I think you might regret pushing me, May.”
She smiled and leaned forward, her eyes glittering with challenge. And damned if his cock didn’t rise up and cheer.
“Prove it.”
AMAZON BOOKS ON BOARD MY BOOKSTORE and MORE

If you'd like to be included in the draw for the first two books in this series, signed in print, ask Melissa a question. Can't think of a question? No problem, just leave a comment indicating that you're interested. If you're familiar with Melissa's work, feel free to mention that too! Melissa will draw a winning name in a day or two - be sure to stop back to see if you're a winner. If you think of additional questions, come back and ask them! Remember, I don't track down winners so you need to come back!

Thanks for being here today, Melissa!

Laurie

Melissa Schroeder is guest blogging tomorrow - fun and prizes!

Melissa Schroeder will be my guest here tomorrow! We're counting on all of you to stop by and help celebrate the release of her latest book, A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION. Melissa is offering signed print copies of A LITTLE HARMLESS SEX and A LITTLE HARMLESS PLEASURE for one lucky reader! So come back and bring your questions for Melissa! She'll be popping by throughout the day.

What begins as a quest for submission becomes an unrelenting need for love.
May Aiona’s crush on sexy Evan Chambers is a bad habit that should be easy to break. It’s not like he's ever noticed her. Looking for a safe place to release the reins of control and explore her curiosity about BDSM, May takes a friend up on an invitation to visit an exclusive bondage club-all she has to agree to is a public submission.
Evan can’t help but notice the exotically beautiful May. But despite his success, the dirty secrets of his past whisper that he’ll never be good enough for her. When Evan sees her standing in his club ready to submit to his best friend, he gives in to the thing he wants most-May as his sub. After their session, he knows one night will never be enough. But loving May isn’t easy for a man always ready to take charge. She might like to submit in the bedroom, but she doesn’t like anyone telling her what to do outside of it.
When May insists she-s not in any danger from the person seemingly obsessed with her, she ends up in the sights of a deranged stalker-with Evan possibly too far away to help.

Warning: This book contains sexy Hawaiian settings, crazy relatives, and a submission scene that leaves the heroine breathless and the hero frustrated. There are toys, bondage, and love scenes so hot, you’ll need ice water and a towel. Remember, it’s a Harmless story, so you know there’s nothing harmless about it.

A brief review:
May Aiona works in the exclusive Hawaiian restaurant owned by Chris Dupree (whose story is told in A LITTLE HARMLESS PLEASURE) and while she loves her job, something is missing in her life. That something is the love and affection of a man, but the only man she's ever wanted is Evan Chambers, co-owner of a bondage club. May is intrigued by the BDSM lifestyle and thinks that perhaps it's the answer the strange restlessness inside her. When she visits the club and is paired with Evan as her dom, she couldn't be more pleased. By the end of their session however, incredible pleasure discovered, she rushes away with her emotions in tatters. Evan is more confused than ever, as the suspect emotions he's felt for May are most definitely confirmed. He knows that he'll never be satisfied with another woman.

Will pride keep these two apart or will true love bring them together? May and Evan are both hard-headed and strong-willed. When threats are made against May and then begin to escalate, Evan is more determined than ever to keep her safe, no easy task when she has a father and a brother who are highly protective. I have enjoyed the previous Harmless books so far and as I've said before, yes, they're a little dirty and a little edgy, but I would stress that Mel's writing style is such that it easily allows exception for a spot or two of discomfort. Melissa successfully puts strong emotion into her books, and conversations and actions are incredibly realistic. It's easy to lose yourself in her books as the characters and their conversations come to life on the page. Catching up with characters from previous books is always fun, but I would point out that while the books in this series easily stand on their own, I strongly suggest reading in order for even more reading pleasure!

Here are links to take you to Samhain to order A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION and to Amazon where you can order the Kindle version. This book is bargain priced and I hope you'll take a closer look and order a copy! Remember, you don't need a Kindle to read Kindle books - Amazon offers a great app for the PC and iPod that are easy as pie to use.

Be sure to stop back! I'll have the link to a trailer and an excerpt to share tomorrow. Get those questions ready so you can participate in the drawing!
Laurie

Stacy interviewed me, go have a look-see!

One of the sweetest people I know I met via Lori Foster's Bookjunkies group several years ago -Stacy, aka Trelaina, and I love her to pieces. She for some reason wanted to interview me and while I'm nowhere near as exciting, hip or fun as the other bloggers she's interviewed, my interview is up today, so please take a look and then make all of the appropriate noises that indicate interest, intrigue, approval. Rumblings of pity can be kept to yourself, please!
Thanks, Stacy - I adore you and love you bunches and bunches! This will take you to Stacy's Place: http://trelainastarblazer.blogspot.com/

THE ICING ON THE CAKE, Alison Kent's latest - I have a signed copy for a giveaway!

Finally! A new release from Alison Kent - raise your hand if you think it's been far too long since we've had anything from her! *waving madly* I'll spare you all the details of how much I love her, how I'm her biggest fan, I want to meet her, etc. I don't think I've ever mentioned though that Alison is one of the first authors I discovered online. Alison was once again kind enough to send me a signed copy of THE ICING ON THE CAKE and because I had pre-ordered a copy for my Kindle, I'm going to do a giveaway for that signed copy. I strongly suggest that you take a look at Alison's blog - scroll down as there are several posts with information about this exciting new series and how she connected with Michelle and Todd, the real-life characters from this book.
Here's everything you could possibly want to know about THE ICING ON THE CAKE:
Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match . . . dot.com. An on-line dating service is not Michelle Snow’s idea of how to find love but when the Big 3-0 hits, Michelle decides she has nothing to lose since she hasn’t brought a date home in ten years, she’s professionally burned out, and her climb up the corporate ladder has come at the expense of abandoning her sweet dream: to own a boutique cupcakery.
Todd Bracken, early thirties and a successful technology consultant, isn’t exactly a player after being off the market for ten years, and pours himself into his dual passions of martial arts and home-sweet-home renovations. Only there’s no one to come home to so he decides to give Match.com a try. Todd isn’t so sure the Internet dating scene is his thing – until a message pops up in the wee hours on a weekend night: “I like your smile.” Todd likes – a lot – the whole package that glides into a French bistro in Washington, D.C.
It’s serious mojo-at-first-sight but there’s a glitch: Todd and Michelle live in different cities. Will love find its way in the digital age with a You’ve Got Mail courtship when video cam kisses just aren’t enough? And when Todd challenges Michelle to not only go for her dream but also let him share it, will they be able to make it happen together despite obstacles more plentiful than a shower of rainbow sprinkles?

You'll find an excerpt here - go have a closer look!

My review:
THE ICING ON THE CAKE is Alison Kent's latest release and while it's slightly different from what readers have come to expect from her, it is a evocatively beautiful love story based on the true story of Michelle Snow and Todd Bracken who met via Match.com. In my expert, readerly (hey, my blog, my made-up words) opinion, it's reason to fall in love with Alison Kent all over again!
Michelle Snow reluctantly signs up at Match.com at the repeated coaxing of her girlfriends. The girlfriend scenes in this book are some of my favorites. Their personalities are so different, but they are united in their affection for each other, just as girlfriends should be. Todd Bracken has a lot going on and yet there is a void in his life - he decides to take a chance on Michelle being the one who can fill that void. Their initial online conversations are so much fun. Both are intelligent and quick-witted, but unsure enough that occasionally they worry over something they've said being misconstrued - who hasn't felt that way over an email or tweet that they've sent? Totally realistic. From their initial date which was intended to consist of a quick, introductory drink but lasting for hours instead, both knew there was something special between them and they had an undeniable need to pursue it.
Michelle and Todd have successful jobs, lives rich with family and friends. Michelle's relationship with her parents is especially sweet, and they fully support her dream of owning her own bakery. Her excitement is shared and encouraged by Todd and his enthusiasm provides a boost of confidence to Michelle's hesitation. Todd's family situation couldn't be more different from Michelle's and while it isn't warm and fuzzy, it is well-written and the emotions of his broken home will likely strike a chord with many readers.
THE ICING ON THE CAKE is a powerful love story, written in Alison Kent's unique style of sharp, crisp storytelling. Not explicit, but sweetly sexy with clever character banter that keeps the reader smiling. One of my favorite quotes from the book isn't a romantic one, but pulled from a conversation between Michelle and her mother about opening a bakery. Michelle says: "I'm just ready to go to work and breathe in hot sugar and vanilla instead of all the desperation and anger stinking up the office." - it reminded me of a conversation I had with my girls once while baking, about how calming it always is for me to smell sugar, butter and vanilla working together to produce something that will be shared and enjoyed with my family and/or friends.

If you want your name in the draw for this signed copy of THE ICING ON THE CAKE, leave a comment about your favorite Alison Kent book, character or cover. If you've been living under a rock and haven't read any of Alison's work, it's OK to admit that too! Send your friends over and if they mention your name, I'll toss your name in the draw two extra times. I'll draw a winner in the evening on Friday, September 24.
Thanks to Alison for the autographed copy - and thanks to all of you for checking out THE ICING ON THE CAKE. This is a beautiful story and I encourage each and every one of you to get your hands on it! Knowing that it is based on a true love story makes it that much sweeter!

Laurie

New book available from Janice Maynard, and I'm giving away a copy!

Janice Maynard has a new book available - her very first Silhouette Desire! I couldn't be more excited for her! I hope this is the beginning of a long, successful relationship between Janice and Silhouette!

You can check out an excerpt here. I've got a copy of THE SECRET CHILD & THE COWBOY CEO for giveaway and if, after checking out the excerpt, you're interested in a copy just leave a comment to have your name in the draw. If you'd like to discuss Janice's previous works, even better! I'll draw a winner in the evening on Wednesday, September 24.

With a disposition as untamed as the Wyoming landscape, Trent Sinclair was not known as the forgiving sort. He had certainly never forgiven Bryn Matthews and her lies. The CEO had turned his back on her, though not without another thought, when she'd claimed his brother had gotten her pregnant.
But now Trent's brother was gone and Bryn had returned…with a child he could not deny was pure Sinclair. Nor could he ignore the passion that had always coursed between them. Had the time finally come for Trent to take what he had always wanted—family and honor be damned?

I regret that I'm not going to be able to read my copy of THE SECRET CHILD & THE COWBOY CEO in the immediate future. I don't want that to stop you from reading though - buzz on over to Amazon and grab a copy!

Thanks for checking it out!
Laurie
xo

A day spent at the antique/flea market

Most of you probably know that Tim and I love to go to antique markets, shops and malls. Friday we went to a huge antique/flea market at the Clark County fairgrounds here in Ohio. They have monthly shows, but three times a year they have "extravaganzas" with hundreds of vendors - comfy walking shoes are a must! We planned the trip for several weeks and both took a vacation day. We didn't buy much, a beautiful crystal snowflake Christmas brooch for me, a three-spout measuring glass for me (I collect unique measuring cups and glasses), and the above beautiful garden decoration for both of us! Yes, I typically make out better than Tim! Pics don't do this treasure justice and it's difficult to see how gorgeous it is. I bought one for my best friend's birthday in June, and regret that we no longer do Christmas gifts for each other because I'm so anxious to give it to her. Hers has clear, blue and pink dishes, so feminine and pretty. Plus, I'm afraid I'll pack it away and not remember where it is come next June! These truly wouldn't be difficult to make, if I could find out what kind of adhesive they're held together with. I thought E-6000, but the woman who makes them says it won't hold with the weight of the glass. This particular one is made with a full size dinner plate, a green cut-glass bowl that's very thick and heavy, a smaller cut glass bowl and in the center of that, a beautiful pink lid, perhaps from a sugar bowl.

Today was spent at a baby shower for Tim's cousin's daughter. She's expecting a little boy in about four weeks and it was so fun seeing all of the little baby goodies! As fun as it was though, I have to admit that I much prefer buying for baby girls! It was great seeing Tim's family though, so many of them we only see a couple of times a year.

We have no plans for tomorrow and that's just fine with me. I'll be back at work on Monday morning in the blink of an eye!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Laurie

A new cover for Pamela Clare's BREAKING POINT

You know how you have a book that you're anticipating like no other? You know the one I'm talking about, right? One you want more than any other? Yep, that one - THE BOOK. For me that book is by Pamela Clare and with every little tease she gives her readers, I grow more and more impatient. I'll be waiting until July of next year for BREAKING POINT. Maybe it will be out in time for my July 17 birthday, right? Let's hope so! BREAKING POINT is the next in the I-Team Series, without a doubt the best romantic suspense series I've ever read. Ever. With each book I'm certain that I've just read the absolute best to come, which has me on pins and needs for BREAKING POINT!

And I haven't even mentioned the cover. Geez Louise, do they get any better? Does anyone know if this is the same cover model used on the upcoming Jaci Burton book? Power Play? I'm not certain of the title and I'm too lazy right now to check. I'm thinking there's a striking similarity between those wonderfully hard bodies.
Check out Pamela's blog - there's an excerpt that accompanied the above cover copy, and if you scroll down you'll find another excerpt. Check them out - go on, right now - and then come back and tell me how excited YOU are to have this book in your hands! You can thank me when you get back.

Laurie

A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION, coming next week from Melissa Schroeder!

Melissa Schroeder will be celebrating the release of A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION right here next Thursday and I can't wait to have her as my guest! There will be chatter about the "Harmless" series, especially A LITTLE HARMLESS OBSESSION, and she's generously offering some giveaways, so be sure to mark your calendars! I have enjoyed the previous Harmless books so far and while yes, they're a little dirty and perhaps a tad edgier than some of you might typically read, I would stress that the excellence of Mel's writing style easily allows exception for a spot or two of discomfort. I'm very much reminded of Sasha White's work in reading this series, and that's intended as high praise, trust me! Mel successfully puts strong emotion into her books, and conversations and actions are incredibly realistic. It's easy to picture her characters and imagine their facial expressions and hear the fluctuations in their voices as they converse. For now, here's a blurb - and links to take you to Samhain for ordering info and to Amazon where you can pre-order the Kindle version.

What begins as a quest for submission becomes an unrelenting need for love.

May Aiona’s crush on sexy Evan Chambers is a bad habit that should be easy to break. It’s not like he’s ever noticed her. Looking for a safe place to release the reins of control and explore her curiosity about BDSM, May takes a friend up on an invitation to visit an exclusive bondage club—all she has to agree to is a public submission.
Evan can’t help but notice the exotically beautiful May. But despite his success, the dirty secrets of his past whisper that he’ll never be good enough for her. When Evan sees her standing in his club ready to submit to his best friend, he gives in to the thing he wants most—May as his sub. After their session, he knows one night will never be enough. But loving May isn’t easy for a man always ready to take charge. She might like to submit in the bedroom, but she doesn’t like anyone telling her what to do outside of it.
When May insists she’s not in any danger from the person seemingly obsessed with her, she ends up in the sights of a deranged stalker—with Evan possibly too far away to help.

Don't forget to stop back next Thursday so we can all celebrate Mel's latest release together!

Laurie

Making adjustments

As of last week, and for the first time in over 16 years, Tim is working first shift instead of second. This means that he's home in the evening - every single evening. Our girls were three and eight when he started his current job/working nights, so they were more or less raised by a single parent during the week. I'm glad to have him home, truly I am, but it has necessitated some adjustments to dinner time and dinner itself. When I was home alone, I would occasionally have a bowl of cereal or oatmeal for dinner, fix some bacon later and make a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich for him to take for his dinner the next night. Or have said bowl of cereal then throw something on the grill for him to take the next day. Strangely, he doesn't consider a bowl of cereal dinner. Silly man. I won't even get into my biggest gripe - his favorite shows (anything involving cops, true crime or hauntings) are so much different from mine - we've agreed to compromise once "my" television viewing season starts back up. We'll see.
The one thing that makes me most sad about those years he spent on second shift are all of the girls' events, sports and school, that he missed. He would take a vacation day if the occasion merited, but you can imagine his frustration at missing outstanding softball, tennis or volleyball plays, school awards nights and band concerts. There simply was no possible way for him to see even a portion of them. There were a few occasions that he would drive like the wind (he works a good 40 min. away) on his dinner hour, watch a little bit of softball while wolfing down a sandwich, and then fly down the road back to work.
It was brutal for Tim the day we took Lindsay to college - not only was it her birthday, but I know he was thinking about all of those missed events and years that had slipped by, and here we were moving her away from home. Lindsay was such a tomboy until she was around 13 or so, and Tim loved playing catch with her, taking her fishing, etc. We had to stop a couple of times along the way to Ohio U, he was an absolute basket case. I'm wiping tears just remembering his heartache.
Don't get me wrong, he was sad when we took Kelsey too. She went to afternoon kindergarten and he would get her up and around for school, making her ponytails or braids, fixing her lunch, and if time allowed they worked on her poker game. Yes, he cried the first couple of times we left Kelsey at school too. Kelsey seems to have a defense mechanism that kicks in the day before she has to go back to school and she turns into the devil incarnate - makes it much easier to say goodbye when she's sporting horns and a pointy tail. I think maybe it's easier for her too if we're all a little peeved w/each other! Dr. Phil?
Tim and I have been married 31 years and while he's been a great dad and a real pal to both of our girls, he and I have settled into a (mostly) easy, comfortable relationship, just as much good friends as husband and wife.
Do any of you have a spouse/partner who works different hours than you or whose job takes them away from home?
Look for chatter soon about upcoming releases from Alison Kent and Melissa Schroeder!
Have a great week!
Laurie

The winner of COMING HOME announced!

Laurie! You're the winner! I know I have your address somewhere, but I'm going to ask that you email me with it anyway - ljodamron@gmail.com

Thanks everyone who entered - it sounds like everyone had something planned for the long holiday weekend! We had a nice, enjoyable weekend but man oh man, it was over much too quickly!

I hope you all have a great week!
Laurie

New author Farrah Rochon - I recommend her!

I recently saw a Twitter retweet by author Alison Kent (@alisonkent), and while I don't recall the exact content, it mentioned new author Farrah Rochon and her new release, HUDDLE WITH ME TONIGHT. I checked it out and immediately ordered it for my Kindle. I read it over the course of a day and enjoyed it so very much. The same day I was reading the book, Alison put up a blog post by/about Ms. Rochon and while she may be a new voice in the romance community, she is incredibly talented and I encourage you to check her out. I'm not doing a review because I'm behind on promised reviews already, but you'll find a blurb below as well as ordering information. You'll want to buzz on over to Alison Kent's blog for the opportunity to take a closer look at Ms. Rochon, read an excerpt from HUDDLE WITH ME TONIGHT, and get your name in the draw for a copy of your own! The contest ends early Tuesday though, so don't drag your feet!

All Paige Turner wants is to be taken seriously as a journalist. The entertainment columnist and blogger extraordinaire gets more notoriety than she planned when her scathing review of NFL superstar Torrian Smallwood's memoir sparks an online confrontation. But that's nothing compared to the sensual heat that tackles her when she meets the heart-stoppingly sexy athlete face-to-face...

Torrian can't let Paige derail his dream of a new career as a restaurateur. Even if the sassy, sultry writer is making America's favorite wide receiver yearn to be on the receiving end of her desire. And with a reality TV cook-off propelling them into the spotlight, Torrian can no longer hide his passionate secret goal--to build a future with the woman who's making an end run around his heart...
Kimani Romance #204
ISBN 13: 978-0-373-86179-8
Available for pre-order from Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Borders. In stores everywhere September 2010!

I can't wait for Farrah Rochon's next release, I'LL CATCH YOU, coming in March, 2011. I feel comfortable in saying that I think she's here to stay!

Thanks for checking it out!

Laurie

Before and After!

Every June at the Lori Foster/Dianne Castell Reader-Author get together, I collect tangible items and (gladly) accept monetary donations for shopping and shipping for our troops that are deployed. I mailed two big boxes in early August, then fell behind with work, helping Kelsey get ready to go back to school, etc. I decided that today was going to be the day to wrap it up and got the rest ready to go - see the pic below. After loading down several boxes, Tim and I went to the grocery and picked up a bunch more. In my best estimation, this shipment should put us right around 1,000 pounds shipped to date - how awesome is that? This is the before pic, as in before packing up and then buying more:

After: I still need to print letters and fill out the customs paperwork for the boxes, but they're packed and ready to go to the post office on Tuesday. The best part is that after shipping I should still have enough money to do more shopping and shipping to send a few holiday packages. I have to admit that the holiday boxes are my favorite to put together.

And just for fun - another "before" pic: three of our kitties a couple of years ago, Sophie, Tony as a youngster, and Lottie.

The after pic: Tony, who is now our tallest cat, and Phoebe, our latest rescue/adoptee. Phoebe will be going to Kent State with Kelsey in a few weeks, once she and her roommates are settled into their apartment and their daily routines. That's the plan, but I have to admit that I've gotten quite attached to the little thing and would be happy to keep her with me! What's one more cat, right? Tim laughs that feisty little Phoebe is just like Kelsey (who, for those who haven't met her, weighs about 105 soaking wet) - full of piss and vinegar! So funny and oh, so true!

I hope you're all having a great holiday weekend. Remember the Mariah Stewart contest that's running until Tuesday evening.
Thanks for stopping!
Laurie

Mariah Stewart's latest series, The Chesapeake Diaries - there's a giveaway!

I'm sure most of you have read at least one Mariah Stewart book, if not several. I fall into the "several" group, although I'll admit that it's been a while. I was excited to review COMING HOME for Ms. Stewart on behalf of Romance Junkies and hope that if you haven't already, you'll check out this "The Chesapeake Diaries" series. Yes, I know I typically push romantic suspense, but this is a prime example of contemporary writing. In so many small-town contemps, I find the characters to be a little cookie cutter, sweetly perfect and often unrealistic. Not so in COMING HOME. The hero and heroine are slightly (and believably) flawed and skeptical enough that while there's an attraction from the start, it's far from love at first sight. Check out the blurb below, go to Ms. Stewart's website and read the excerpts, take a peek at my review, then prepare to click yourself over to Amazon to order a copy! The series continues with HOME AGAIN which is also now available. I have a copy but haven't read it yet.

In the wake of his wife’s murder, agent Grady Shields turned his back on the FBI—and everything else—to retreat into the vast solitude of Montana, grieve for his lost love, and forget the world. But after years in seclusion, his sister’s wedding draws him to St. Dennis, a peaceful town on the Chesapeake Bay. Though he swears he isn’t interested in finding love again, Grady can’t ignore the mutual sparks that fly when he meets Vanessa Keaton.
Although her past was marked by bad choices, Vanessa has found that coming to St. Dennis is the best decision she’s ever made. Bling, her trendy boutique, is a success with tourists as well as with the townspeople. She’s made friends, has a home she loves, and has established a life for herself far from the nightmare she’s left behind. The last thing she’s looking for is romance, but she’s finding the hot new man in town is hard to resist.
And when her past catches up with her, Grady finds that he’s unwilling to let her become a victim again. As together they fight her demons, Grady and Vanessa discover that life still holds some surprises and that love doesn’t always have to hurt.

My (4.5 Blue Ribbon) Romance Junkies review:
COMING HOME is a heartwarming small-town story from veteran author Mariah Stewart, about a man who temporarily returns to his hometown to celebrate his sister’s wedding and a woman who has come to that same small town to make a new beginning. Both are looking to escape painful pasts, but will they risk putting those hurts aside for the brightness of a love together?

When Grady “Gray” Shields agrees to return to St. Dennis on the Chesapeake Bay for his sister’s wedding, he anticipates spending a minimal amount of time before hightailing it back to his secluded life in the wilds of Montana. Gray is former FBI, from an FBI family, and has practically lived as a hermit since the murder of his wife. His unexpected meeting of his sister’s future sister-in-law, Vanessa Keaton, makes him question his intended hasty exit. When Vanessa becomes the target of a vicious attacker, he knows he’s not going anywhere until he knows she’s safe. Gray is shocked to discover that emotions he thought long dead are very much alive. Convincing Vanessa to take a chance on him may prove to be more difficult than his return to society.
Vanessa came to St. Dennis as a young woman to escape the brutalities of an unspeakably abusive marriage. It took a considerable amount of time for her to trust and to realize that she was surrounded by people who loved her despite, and maybe a little more because of, her flaws and scars. Gray makes her feel renewed and alive and despite the threats against her, she also feels safe and protected. When her estranged mother unexpectedly shows up at the wedding, her appearance stirs up an entirely different set of emotions for Vanessa to sort through.
COMING HOME, first in the new Chesapeake Diaries series by Mariah Stewart, is a heartwarming book that deals with several subjects, not all of which are sweet and pretty. Ms. Stewart touches on subjects seldom brought to light in small-town romances, such as neglect, abuse, and murder. Vanessa’s past was unsavory on many levels and she unashamedly and regretfully admits her mistakes. Gray was betrayed by those closest to him and as a result had closed himself off from the family who loves and cares about him.
There has been a resurgence of contemporary small-town romance recently and I can’t help but feel that with realistic, heartwarming stories like COMING HOME, the trend will successfully continue.

I have two copies of COMING HOME and have decided to do a giveaway for one of them. If you're interested, simply say so. If you'd like to chat about Ms. Stewart's work, all the better! I'll draw the winner on Tuesday, September 7, so be sure to check back after the holiday weekend. So many fail to read the disclaimer on the sidebar reminding that I DO NOT track down winners.
Thanks for checking out COMING HOME - I hope everyone is having a terrific week. Any special holiday weekend plans?
Our oldest daughter has a birthday this Friday - her 25th!! Goodness sakes, I seriously don't know where the years have gone.
Laurie