SALE: Over 50% off SWEET & SENSUAL Romance Bundle

Oct 10-16 SALE: Get over 50% OFF SWEET & SENSUAL Romance Bundle via Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk

SWEET & SENSUAL contains 6 complete romance novels by award-winning and international bestselling authors: Cheryl Kaye Tardif, Chris Redding, Kat Flannery, Melodie Campbell, Alison Bruce and Catherine Astolfo. 

1. LANCELOT’S LADY by Cherish D'Angelo/Cheryl Kaye Tardif – A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down. 

2. BLONDE DEMOLITION by Chris Redding – Mallory Sage lives in a small, idyllic town where no one, not even her fellow volunteer firefighters, knows about her past life as an agent for Homeland Security. But a twisted serial killer has found her, as well as her former partner and lover, Trey McCrane. Now Mallory and Trey are on the run, and time is running out. 

3. CHASING CLOVERS by Kat Flannery – Mail-order bride, Livy Green, is desperate to escape the memories of her past. John Taylor will never love another woman again, but his children need a mother. As Livy's past catches up with her and suspicious accidents begin to happen on the ranch, she is tempted to tell John the truth. But will he send her back if she does? 

4. ROWENA THROUGH THE WALL by Melodie Campbell – When Rowena falls through her classroom wall and lands in an alternate world, she doesn't count on being kidnapped―not once, but twice―and the stakes get higher as the men get hotter. Unwanted husbands keep piling up, but that doesn't stop her from falling for the wrong brother. Good thing she can go back through the wall. Or can she? 

5. UNDER A TEXAS STAR by Alison Bruce – When Marly Landers is fooled by con man Charlie Meese, she's determined to bring him to justice―even if it means dressing up as a boy and setting off across the plains to find him. Texas Ranger Jase Strachan is also after Meese. Under the Texas stars, Marly and Jase are drawn together, yet fate plots to tear them apart. 

6. SWEET KAROLINE by Catherine Astolfo – Anne Williams says she killed her best friend, Karoline. But did she? Or is there more to Karoline's mysterious death than meets the eye? Anne embarks on a compelling journey to discover her past and exposes an unusual history, horrific crimes and appalling betrayals. 

With a list price total of nearly $24.00 US and over 340 reviews on Amazon.com, SWEET & SENSUAL is a value-packed romance bundle of complete novels that takes you from romantic suspense to historical romance to fantasy romance all set in captivating worlds that will leave you wanting more.

Oct 10-16 SALE: Get over 50% OFF SWEET & SENSUAL Romance Bundle via Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk

$0.99 SALE! SWEET & SENSUAL Bundle - 6 Complete Romance Novels

Need a little romance in your life?

Check out this $0.99 deal:

SWEET & SENSUAL, 6 complete romance novels by Catherine Astolfo, Alison Bruce, Melodie Campbell, Author, Kat Flannery, Author, Chris Redding and Author Cheryl Kaye Tardif...

US readers: http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Sensual-Romance-Bestselling-Authors-ebook/dp/B00OMUBR4W

UK readers: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sweet-Sensual-Romance-Bestselling-Authors-ebook/dp/B00OMUBR4W

With a list price total of nearly $24.00 US and over 340 reviews on Amazon.com, SWEET & SENSUAL is a value-packed romance bundle of complete novels that takes you from romantic suspense to historical romance to fantasy romance all set in captivating worlds that will leave you wanting more.

Author Kim Cresswell talks about "The Perfect Blend of Romance and Suspense"

First, I'd like to welcome my good friend, Kim Cresswell, to my blog. Take it away, Kim! :-)

I love writing and reading romantic suspense because not only does the suspense provide instant tension in a story, I love the push-pull-tug-of-war of romance.

Will the hero and heroine get together?

Will they overcome the conflict and live happily ever after?

In my debut romantic suspense, REFLECTION ( A Whitney Steel Novel ), my heroine, reporter Whitney Steel is investigating an alleged human cloning project when she meets up with the hero, undercover FBI Agent Blake Neely, who is searching for his own answers. Everything from this point on focuses on Blake and Whitney discovering whether or not the villain has produced the world's first cloned human.

The relationship between the hero and heroine evolves because of the suspense.

So what is the perfect blend of romance and suspense? In my opinion—a kick-ass heroine, a hot FBI agent, sizzling romance, murder, and lots and lots of mayhem!

Blurb:

Florida investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, has lived in the shadow of her legendary father long enough. To prove herself she needs to find the "Big" story.

She found it. Now it may kill her. 

After receiving a lead pointing to the world's first cloned human, now a small child, Whitney vows to unravel the truth. However, sifting through the facts proves to have dangerous results, including death threats and murder. When she's nearly killed, but is saved by undercover FBI Special Agent, Blake Neely, he refuses to let her get in the way of his own objective—at least not right away. 

Caught in a lethal game between a billionaire obsessed with genetic perfection, his hit man's thirst for retribution, and a Colombian drug lord fresh out of prison determined to make Blake pay for his twin brother's death over a decade ago...

Can they save an innocent child before it's too late? 

Faced with tough choices, with deadly consequences for many—Whitney soon realizes that sometimes a story becomes more than just a story.

Amazon: www.amazon.com/Kim-Cresswell/e/B00B5LKAXA

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/kim-cresswell

Reviews:

Reflection is a deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end.” —New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love

“Action packed from page one…an impressively laid out passionate thrill ride!” —InD’Tale Magazine (http://www.indtale.com)

“I was looking forward to reading about Whitney and Blake. I anticipated a Booth and Bones relationship (from the Bones TV Series) and I wasn’t wrong…this book is definitely worth reading.” —Quality Reads UK Book Club

About the Author:

Kim Cresswell resides in Ontario, Canada. Trained as a legal assistant, Kim has been a story-teller all her life but took many detours including; working in legal and adult education before returning to her first love, writing.

Her debut romantic suspense, REFLECTION, has won numerous awards: RomCon's 2014 Readers' Crown Finalist (Romantic Suspense), InD'tale Magazine 2014 Rone Award Finalist (Suspense/Thriller), UP Authors Fiction Challenge Winner (2013), Silicon Valley's Romance Writers of America (RWA) "Gotcha!" Romantic Suspense Winner (2004) and an Honourable Mention in Calgary's Romance Writers of America (RWA) The Writer's Voice (2006).

LETHAL JOURNEY was a finalist in RomCon's 2014 Readers' Crown and From the Heart Romance Writers (FTHRW) Golden Gate Contest (2003).

Her action-packed suspense and thrillers have been highly praised by reviewers and readers. As one reviewer said, "Buckle up, Hang on tight!"

Kim recently entered the true crime writing arena. Real Life Evil - A True Crime Quickie (two short stories) was published in January 2014. You can read her latest true crime stories in Serial Killer Quarterly, a new quarterly e-magazine published by Grinning Man Press.

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Kim-Cresswell/e/B00B5LKAXA

Website: www.kimcresswell.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimCresswellBooks

Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/kimcresswell

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898395.Kim_Cresswell

Author Chicki Brown gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming new release, A WOMAN'S WORTH

Today's special guest is author Chicki Brown, whom I've had the pleasure of doing a multi-author event with. Chicki has a new release out...

A WOMAN'S WORTH

Gianne Marvray has been through the worst two years of her life physically and emotionally. After a battle with cancer and all it entails, she is finally ready to start living her life again. She wants to see new places, meet new people and experience new things, but she isn’t ready for the rollercoaster ride she’s about to embark on when she meets Las Vegas personal trainer and raw vegan foods advocate, Marc Stafford.

After four years, Marc comes home to Atlanta to attend a family celebration in one of his brother’s honor. He’s not thrilled about seeing his father, but he has promised his mother that he won’t throw off the family balance by being the only one of their six sons absent. All Marc wants to do is make an appearance at the event and spend a little time with his brothers. Little does he know that this is the night he will meet the woman who will forever change his life.

Excerpt: 

Gianne strolled through the room and looked for an unoccupied table. When she didn’t find a vacant table, she chose one not far from the door where only two people were seated. Neither of them seemed friendly, probably the reason they were sitting alone. Once she settled in the chair and smoothed her dress, Gianne busied herself with reading the short printed program placed above each water glass, which took all of five minutes. She closed her eyes and willed herself to at least enjoy the meal. When she opened them, she looked right into the watercolor gaze of the handsomest man she’d ever seen. And he was staring directly at her.

Not knowing what else to do, Gianne offered him a small smile, yet he just stood there appearing startled, which she didn’t understand. Just to be certain she was the object of his attention, she turned and glanced over her shoulder to see if anyone stood behind her. When she looked back, her movement seemed to stir him.

“Please forgive me for staring,” he said in a deep, rich tone that sent waves of warmth right to her core. “Have we met before?”

Although she tried, Gianne was unable to keep her gaze from traveling the length of his tall body from those incredible eyes to the long black hair that curled onto his wide shoulders and over the black designer suit that fit his lean, yet well-built body perfectly.

“I don’t think so. You must be one of the Stafford brothers.”

He moved closer and acknowledged the other two guests at the table for the first time with a smile and a casual nod before he extended his hand to her. “Marc Stafford. And you are?”

“Gianne Marvray.”

“Beautiful name. Very fitting.” He smiled, and an air of sensuality surrounded him. “Are you a friend of Vic’s?”

“Not really. I know him professionally.” No need to give him the gory details. And your brother, the fine surgeon that he is, made sure I never have any children of my own.

He lowered his gaze, and she knew he was admiring the cleavage showcased by the V in the front of her dress. “Do you mind if I join you? I’d rather not sit with the family.” He shrugged. “Long story.”

He set his glass on the table, pulled out the chair on her left and sat angling his body toward her.

“Dr. Stafford mentioned that he has six sons. Where do you fall in the lineup?”

“Charles and I are actually number three. We’re twins.”

“Really? Which one is he?” she asked, returning her gaze to the head table.

“The second one to my father’s left.”

She studied his brother from a distance then said, “Oh, yes. I see the likeness. It’s just your hair that makes you look different. Is that intentional?”

Marc chuckled. “No. It just took me thirty-five years to finally stop wearing the buzz cut my father always insisted on.”

She gave the shiny hair cascading onto the shoulders of his perfectly fitted suit an admiring glance. “I guess I’m sensitive to the whole hair thing, since mine is just starting to grow back.” She ran a hand over her head and Marc frowned.

Learn more about Chicki at:

Blog: http://sisterscribbler.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/@Chicki663
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chicki.brown
Amazon Central Author Page: http://amzn.to/l2kjXQ
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/chicki663/

Bestselling author, Kat Flannery, talks about 'Children of Coal'

Today's special guest is bestselling author, Kat Flannery. Kat recently released her newest novel, LAKOTA HONOR, a unique mix of romance, historical western and supernatural/paranormal. And today she's sharing some of the history behind her novel...

While writing LAKOTA HONOR I did a fair bit of research. One of the things I researched extensively was coal mining in the 1800’s. I came across some pretty interesting and disturbing facts about mining back then. However, what I found the most disturbing was that children were called to work in these mountains. These poor boys sacrificed their lives to help put food on the family table.

In order to rid the mines of explosive and poisonous gases, a crude ventilation system was built in the early 1800's. Young children called Trappers would sit underground for hours opening and closing trap doors that went across the mine. This created a draught and could shift a cloud of gas, but it didn't always work. Trap doors could also stop the blast of an explosion damaging more of the mine.

Crouched over a barrel boys picked out slate and other refuse from the coal for hours and hours. As they grew their shoulders hunched forward and their backs rounded, making them look far older then what they were.

The coal is hard, and cut, broken or crushed fingers were common among the boys. Sometimes there are worse accidents; a boy falls down an open shaft to be pulled out later broken and dead. Cave in’s are a grave danger to these young boys who are small enough to crawl into the tiniest of places and help set dynamite, or pick away at a vein of coal.

Miner’s consumption: pneumoconiosis. A chronic disease of the lungs would eventually affect these boys, a result of repeated inhalation of dusts, including iron oxides (e.g., rust and filings), silicates (e.g., talc and rock dust), and carbonates (especially coal dust). Particles collect in the lungs and become sites for the formation of fibrous nodules. As the disease progresses, fibrous tissue increasingly replaces elastic lung tissue. Loss of lung function is signaled by shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and difficulty in expectorating. Sufferers are particularly vulnerable to infectious lung diseases such as tuberculosis. Pneumoconiosis is incurable and treatment is purely symptomatic. Because the inhaled dusts cause darkening of the lung tissue, the disease is also known as black lung. Silicosis, the form of the disease prevalent among miners, is commonly called miner's lung.

Children were often used in the mines because of their size. They were hired to crawl into the dark dank tunnels where men could not fit. They undertook small jobs suitable for nimble fingers, like threading weaving machines, getting into nooks and crannies in the mountain, and making matches. The dangers they faced in their every day life can be imagined...add that there was no electric light, no rest breaks, no food or water provided, and they worked up to fourteen hours a day.

BIO:

Kat Flannery’s love of history shows in her novels. She is an avid reader of historical, suspense, paranormal, and romance. When not researching for her next book, Kat can be found running her three sons to hockey and lacrosse. A member of many writing groups, Kat enjoys promoting other authors on her blog. She’s been published in numerous periodicals. Her first two novels CHASING CLOVERS and LAKOTA HONOR have been on Amazon's Bestsellers list many times. She is currently hard at work on her next book, while awaiting the release of her novella, HAZARDOUS UNIONS Sept. 7th 2013.

Buy LAKOTA HONOR here.

Kat’s website

Kat’s blog

Facebook

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The Stories of Robin Hood is Inspiration for The Rebels of Cordovia

Today's special guest is author Linda Weaver Clarke, whose new release, THE REBELS OF CORDOVIA, celebrates the fight for liberty and equality. Welcome, Linda! Please tell us about your book.

We celebrate Independence Day, remembering the freedom we fought for centuries ago. Many patriots had to pay for this freedom with their lives and we are grateful to those who fought for our liberty. In this new novel, you get a glimpse of what another country had to fight for, as well. The freedom of speech, the freedom of equality, and the freedom to worship as we please! No one could have a greater gift than this.

This tale will entertain those who enjoy bits of adventure, humor, mystery, and a tender love story. The stories of Robin Hood have enchanted readers for years. In our youth, we enjoyed hearing the escapades of Robin Hood and were spellbound by each story and how he cared for the people. How awesome would it be to live during that time period just because of Robin Hood! In The Rebels of Cordovia, a similar story is created but centuries after the legend of Robin Hood. But this time, there are two major groups of rebels fighting for the rights of the people. Daniel, a good-looking rogue, would be the leader of the Freemen. Robin Marie, a young woman, would be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Each leader is an expert archer and swordsman. With bits of adventure and delectable kisses, this tale will entertain anyone who enjoys a sweet romance.

In The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke, the time period is set in the late 1700s. Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for the same cause: for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

Author Anna Del C. Dye wrote: “What a fun and interesting tale The Rebels of Cordovia is. A very good story to keep you glued all the way to the end. I really enjoyed the romance mingled with the fights. It is a well-paced tale to give you entertainment next to a warm fire in the rain. Linda writes a good, clean, and sweet romance, for young adults and adults alike. You will enjoy this story to the end.”

Read a sample chapter here: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/rebels.html

The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke

Genre: Sweet romance

ISBN: 978-1484147658

Purchase Book Link: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/purchasebook.html

Price: $12.95, Ebook: $2.99 

What inspired western romance author Kat Flannery to add a dash of paranormal to her new release, Lakota Honor?

Today's special guest is someone I'm very proud of. I've watched her blossom from a debut author into a bestselling author, whose proactive perseverance in learning everything about promoting her books will take her far in this business. Meet Kat Flannery, author of an exciting new paranormal western romance, LAKOTA HONOR, which is on sale for only $0.99 for a limited time...

After the release of my first book, Chasing Clovers, I knew I’d write another book. This was just the beginning of years and years of jotting down short stories, poems and writing articles. I was ready to jump into the author world.

Once the promotion and marketing had settled down with CC I had the itch. Yup, that little annoying poke to start another story. Soon my fingers found the keyboard and I was ready to let loose a fantastic tale full of grand adventures.

Earlier my publisher had suggested I write something paranormal. Paranormal? Me? I don’t think so. I was a historical western writer. I wrote about cowboys, damsels and horses. Not werewolves and vampires. I brushed her comment aside not thinking of it again. I had a great plot and a few awesome subplots. I was ready to write, and I did, about 30,000 words. Then a writer’s worst nightmare happened. My mind went blank. The writing stopped. How could this be? I’d planned everything out. I had a chapter outline. I knew how the story was going to end. I yelled and cursed at my characters for their silence as I stared at a blank computer screen. I’d written the start of a great Historical western romance…and I couldn’t finish it.

Frustration set in and I pushed through the writer’s block, insisting that’s all it was. I’d created a mean, venomous assassin in my antagonist, Otakatay and I wanted to continue his reign of vengeance. But somehow along the way I’d begun to feel sorry for him. You don’t feel sorry for your villain…ever. What had made him so mean? Why had he killed so many? I started to think about what Stephen King had said, “If the reader can have empathy for your killer then you’ve done something right.” Hmmmm. I had empathy for him, but I’d created him. Yet, Otakatay kept pushing me to write his story, to tell his side.

So I got to thinking and I answered my own questions, or Otakatay did. Once I knew why he’d turned out the way he did, I wanted to write his story. He’d been ridiculed—judged—cast aside not because of his actions but the color of his skin. He’d been whipped and beaten, and because of all this…he learned to hate. I needed to balance this out and created Nora. She was a healer, helping those in need. This was where the paranormal came into it. Nora had been run from towns and hunted by people who feared her. She too, had been chastised but instead of hate, she loved no matter what. 

Why were Otakatay and Nora so different? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Once I put the two together the story flowed like lava. I couldn’t type fast enough. Within 2 ½ months I’d finished the book and Otakatay’s story.

What happened to the 30,000 words? They sit in a folder with the other story starters I’ve had.

* * * * * * *

Kat Flannery has loved writing ever since she was a girl. She is often seen jotting her ideas down in a little black book. When not writing, or researching, Kat enjoys snuggling on her couch with a hot chocolate and a great book.

Her first novel, CHASING CLOVERS became an Amazon’s bestseller in Historical and Western romance. This is Kat’s second book, and she is currently hard at work on the third.

When not focusing on her creative passions, Kat is busy with her three boys and doting husband.

Buy LAKOTA HONOR here.

Kat’s website

Kat’s blog

LANCELOT'S LADY is FREE for 3 days

A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down.

When palliative care nurse Rhianna McLeod is given a gift of a dream holiday to the Bahamas from her dying patient, billionaire JT Lance, Rhianna has no idea that her 'holiday' will include being stranded on a private island with Jonathan, an irritating but irresistibly handsome recluse. Or that she'll fall head over heels for the man.

Jonathan isn't happy to discover a drop-dead gorgeous redhead has invaded his island. But his anger soon turns to attraction. After one failed marriage, he has guarded his heart, but Rhianna's sudden appearance makes him yearn to throw caution to the wind.

To live fully in the present, Rhianna must resolve her own murky past, unravel the secret that haunts JT, foil the plans of a sleazy, blackmailing private investigator and help Jonathan find his muse. Only then can Rhianna find the love she's been searching for, and finally become...Lancelot's Lady.

Available for FREE April 12-14 from Amazon.

International Time Travel Day - March 14th

One of my author friends, Melodie Campbell, has created an exciting multi-author event to celebrate her time travel romance ROWENA THROUGH THE WALL and other authors' books with time travel as a main theme.

Join us on March 14th for International Time Travel Day and experience a day of surprises and giveaways.

I'll be giving away one of my ebooks right here on my blog, so please bookmark http://www cherylktardif.blogspot.com and come back here on March 14th.

More information:
http://funnygirlmelodie.blogspot.com/2012/03/march-14-is-international-time-travel.html

Lancelot's Lady is now available in trade paperback

My award-winning, contemporary romantic suspense Lancelot's Lady (written under the pen name of Cherish D'Angelo) is now available in trade paperback from Amazon.com and Createspace.

A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down.

“From the cold rocky shores of Maine to the extravagant mansions of Miami to a lush tropical island in the Bahamas, Cherish D'Angelo takes her heroine through a series of breathtaking romantic adventures that mirror the settings, often in surprisingly ironic ways.  A page turner in the best possible sense.” ―Gail Bowen, author of the award-winning Joanne Kilbourn series

When palliative care nurse Rhianna McLeod is given a gift of a dream holiday to the Bahamas from her dying patient, billionaire JT Lance, Rhianna has no idea that her 'holiday' will include being stranded on a private island with Jonathan, an irritating but irresistibly handsome recluse. Or that she'll fall head over heels for the man.

Jonathan isn't happy to discover a drop-dead gorgeous redhead has invaded his island. But his anger soon turns to attraction. After one failed marriage, he has guarded his heart, but Rhianna's sudden appearance makes him yearn to throw caution to the wind.

To live fully in the present, Rhianna must resolve her own murky past, unravel the secret that haunts JT, foil the plans of a sleazy, blackmailing private investigator and help Jonathan find his muse. Only then can Rhianna find the love she's been searching for, and finally become...Lancelot's Lady.

“Romance, mystery, danger, black-mail, and twists and surprises, this tale contains them all… Despicable intentions threaten every character in this finely crafted tale of sweet tension…Lancelot’s Lady is a non-stop adventure combined with the agonizing struggle to not give in to the magnetism between them. Enticing. Fun.” ―Midwest Book Review

"Another brilliantly crafted novel by Cheryl Tardif [aka Cherish D'Angelo]...a beautiful love story rippling with suspense and just the right amount of sensuality." ―Pauline Holyoak, author of Merryweather Lodge

"Cherish D'Angelo has got that mythical “voice” down to a fine art." ―Jennifer L. Hart, author of River Rats

“Lancelot's Lady is riveting. It holds on and won't let you go! Cherish D’Angelo’s descriptive powers are amazing. She summons up scenes like genies from bottles!” ―Susan J. McLeod, author of Soul and Shadow

Order your copy today from Amazon or Createspace.

Redeeming Characters Blog Tour - Turning a Sidekick into a Leading Man

Today's special guest blogger is Jennifer L. Hart, whom I met at Textnovel.com. To celebrate the launch of Jennifer's latest novel, Redeeming Characters, she's put together a fabulous blog tour with great prizes. Welcome, Jennifer! ~ Cheryl

Hello all and a great big thank you to my hostess for having me here as part of my Redeeming Characters blog tour. One of my personal guilty pleasures is watching brainless comedies. You know the kind when you laugh at toilet humor and people falling off high places to land in a whole pile of icky glop? Yes I know, how sophomoric, but I love to laugh.

Going hand in hand with that is the drive to make other people laugh too. I don’t have the personality for a stand-up comedian—I actually don’t like that much attention focused on my person. I’m more like the two old muppet characters snarking from the balcony.

In typical comedy, the one-liner character is invented for a single purpose, to say something pithy to ease the tension or sometimes to ratchet it up a few notches. After watching enough comedies though, I stop following the main storyline and my mind starts wondering what his story is, what makes a man so snarky and always ready to quip at another’s misfortune? 

Popular culture has never really delved into that guy, the side kick, the wingman. Sure you have your comedic heroes—John Cusack comes to mind— but the characters he’s plays always have more depth right from first scene.

Unsatisfied at the offerings of snarky heroes, I made one up instead. From his very first line, “Did anything in the known universe suck as much as author day?” I knew this guy was exactly what I wanted, the kind I yearned to know more about. Absolutely nothing was sacred— anything in sight was fair game to Drue.

What I didn’t expect were the hidden depths, the dark and twisty places inside his head that not only explained why he became the one liner guy, but that he really had no other choice. Part nature, part nurture equaled a scary and difficult human being.

You see, the typical one liner guy, he’s a one trick pony. Pop over, unleash a zinger, or two and then fade away. A true romance novel hero needs more depth, more color. There were times when writing Redeeming Characters when I worried I was ruining my zinger guy, after all, who can laugh in the face of constant suffering and not look like a total lunatic?

Worse yet, the one liner guys aren’t typically fantasy material. They fit more comfortably in the role of the best friend’s older brother, like Paul Rudd in Clueless. Sure, he gets the girl in the end, but he went overlooked for a good portion of that movie.

So how to create a real Alpha hero who could be snarky and loveable at once?

After years of struggling it hit me. And man, did I feel like a moron when the dust finally settled. It’s not what he says, it’s what he does. You know the schoolyard rhyme. Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me? Well, they do hurt, just in a different way. I had to make sure his actions spoke to the man, and made up for the words Drue wields like a weapon’s expert.

So, that’s the story of how I turned the sidekick into my leading man. Come check out Redeeming Characters available wherever ebooks are sold and in print now at Amazon.com. One random commenter, selected by my good hostess, will receive a Redeeming Characters keychain. Be sure to stop by www.jenniferlhart.com for a chance to win the blog tour prize.

Guest author Sandra Cox talks about sundials and time travel

A special welcome to guest blogger Sandra Cox, author of Sundial, a time travel romance. Sandra is sharing her thoughts on time travel and sundials. Take it away, Sandra...

Today they are ornamental and grace our gardens. But down through the ages the sundial has been a functional measurement of time. In fact, it was the first instrument developed to tell time. It was developed in BC and told time by the use of an object, commonly called a gnomon that threw a shadow from one side to the other as the object followed the sun. 

Since my lead female character is a garden painter, the sundial seemed the perfect means of transporting her back in time.

If you are writing, have written or thinking about writing a time travel what transport device appeals to you?

Thanks for joining me today. And a big thanks to Cheryl for having me.

(You are very welcome, Sandra! :-)

Now here’s an excerpt from the Sundial:

(Sarah is in a garden with her niece Meghan and cat Monet when she first discovers the sundial.)

Sarah blinked then squinted.  For the first time, she saw that Monet was seated beside an old sundial.

“Meghan, come here.  You’ve got to see this,” she called out excitedly, her headache forgotten. She heard an exaggerated sigh.

“You said not to come.”

“I’ve found an old sundial.  Or rather Monet has.”

“A real one?”  The rustling began again, as Meghan started pushing her way through.

“Appears so,” Sarah squatted down to study it.  “Looks to be a hundred years old. I bet it’s valuable.  You should see the intricate detail.  This will make a great piece to paint!”  

As Sarah studied it, she noticed the words.  “There’s writing on it.”  She read aloud, “Fate cannot be...drat, moss has grown over the rest of the words.”

A wave of superstitious terror washed over Meghan.  Suddenly, the pieces all fell into place.  And as the old woman had prophesied, she believed. 

“Sarah, don’t.  Get out of there now.  Please, Sarah, please,” she cried, her teeth chattering.

“What’s wrong with you?” Sarah asked irritably still studying the sundial.  “There’s actually heat radiating from it.  Surprising, it’s not that warm out.”

“Sarah, please,” Meghan pleaded.  “Don’t you remember what the old lady said?”  She fought her way through the overgrowth, not feeling the scratches a thorny branch left on her face or the warm blood trickling down her cheek.  But it was as if the thicket conspired to keep her out.

Tears streamed down Meghan’s face as she pushed at the bracken separating herself and her aunt.

She broke through just as Sarah reached down to brush the moss from the sundial.

“No, Sarah, no,” she screamed.  Later her mind would play the scene over again in slow motion:  Sarah’s hand reaching out; Monet jumping playfully at her fingers, bringing them both in touch with the sundial; the boom; the jagged streak of white; and then nothing.  They were gone, leaving Meghan alone in the clearing with the sundial.

Blurb: As Sarah Miles is driving down Eighteenth Street a stranger materializes in front of her car. She throws on her brakes, braces for impact and..drives straight through him. For a brief moment his voice filled with quiet despair echoes in her head. "Saura." Then he is gone. Later that day, Sarah discovers the Sundial ad her incredible journey through time begins.

Contest:

For a chance to win an autographed copy of SUNDIAL, a ‘seeing’ pendant and a Starbucks gift certificate just leave a comment mentioning Cheryl and SUNDIAL at www.sandracox.blogspot.com. The contest runs from October 15 – November 14 at 5:00 p.m.

SUNDIAL blog tour hostesses are invited to enter.

Lancelot's Lady review: "I absolutely loved it."

"Lancelot's Lady is a compelling and emotional tale of two people destined for one another. The suspense builds and builds until the stunning and shocking conclusion is revealed. D'Angelo pens a wonderful story of two passionate souls searching for someone to complete them. The sparks fly and the attraction sizzles between Jonathon and Rhianna, and the pages just fly by as this reader found herself captivated with their story. I absolutely loved it!!"

--Wendy, reviewer & blogger

Read the full review.

Lancelot's Lady is available at Amazon, Kobo Books, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and more.

Lancelot's Lady review: "Kept me glued to the page."

"I loved this story. The characters were compelling...intriguing and kept me glued to the page. Lancelot’s Lady is first and foremost a romance, but the mystery undertones definitely keep you interested and wanting to read more...I simply adore when there is a kid in the story, specially such a lovable one… Adorable!"

--Larissa Benoliel, reviewer & blogger

Read the full review.

Lancelot's Lady is available at Amazon, Kobo Books, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and more.

Lancelot's Lady review: "If you’re a romance reader, you won’t want to miss this one."

"This author is a genius with lyrical description. I felt as though I saw and touched everything Rhianna did. Her characters are vivid, memorable, and likeable. The plot is fast moving which is good because there are so many secrets to uncover! They are woven throughout the plot and keep you guessing from start to finish. I thought I had it figured out, but I was wrong. If you’re a romance reader, you won’t want to miss this one."

--Elaine Cantrell, author

Read the full review.

Lancelot's Lady is available at Amazon, Kobo Books, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and more.

Whale Song review: "Your words made me weep."

"I was captured by Cheryl Kaye Tardif’s emotional tale, “Whale Song”...it is brimming with the wisdom...an ageless story, though, and appeals to readers across generations. Whale Song teaches us not only about the traditions and lore of Canada’s west coast Indians, but also about ourselves—about the children we once were and the wise elders we are destined to become...Cheryl Kaye Tardif, your words made me weep."

--Eileen Schuh, author

Read the full review.

Ebook available at Kobo Books, Amazon & Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and more.

New trade paperback (2010 edition) now available at https://www.createspace.com/3486110. Coming soon to Amazon!

Lancelot's Lady review: "The ending came as a complete surprise to me"

"In this romantic suspense, the romance is not present in the beginning, but Cherish D’Angelo leads with suspense – Tardif’s specialty – to carry the reader through. The first chapters of Lancelot’s Lady are important background scenes full of suspense...Lancelot’s Lady follows the story structure of a good romance, making the story seem predictable, but the ending came as a complete surprise to me and left me crying but satisfied. On top of the romantic and suspenseful plot, this story also contains a dreamy private island setting and a well-rounded secondary cast of characters, including one bent on destroying J.T. and abducting Rhianna to use as he pleases, making Lancelot’s Lady a great romantic suspense."

--Jessica Subject, writer

Read the full review.

Lancelot's Lady is available at Amazon, Kobo Books, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and more.

Day 14 of Cherish the romance Virtual Book Tour - Last day to win prizes

On Day 14 of my 15 day, 115+ blogs tour, you can learn more about Lancelot's Lady, Cherish D'Angelo and you can enter to win more great prizes.

Here's today's blog stop schedule:

• Fatal Foodies (guest post)
• Lia has the Last Word (interview)   * adults only
• My Book Addiction and More (guest post)
• Moonlight, Lace & Mayhem (review - scroll halfway down)
• Dames of Dialogue (interview)
• Stacey Cochran's blog (guest post)
• The Romance Studio's Spookapalooza (excerpt from Remote Control)
• Facebook Wrap-Up Party
• Cherish on Twitter (Q & A at #cherishdangelo from 6 PM to 7 PM Mountain Time)
• The suspense is killing me (final words - after 3 PM)

Grand prize: a Kobo eReader. 

View the prize list & rules.

Follow me during my tour and enter to win great prizes. If you comment on ANY blog stop post with your email address, you're guaranteed to receive a free ebook.

A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down.

Get your copy of Lancelot's Lady At KoboBooks, Amazon Or Smashwords.

Day 13 of Cherish the Romance Virtual Book Tour - More prizes!

On Day 13 of my 15 day, 115+ blogs tour, you can enter to win more great prizes. Plus if you comment on ANY blog stop post with your email address, you're guaranteed to receive a free ebook.

Here's today's blog stop schedule:

• Anna's Book Blog (review)
• Suspense Your Disbelief (guest post)
• Space Snark (guest post)
• Francesca's Mindstream (guest post)
• Duchess of Depravity (guest post)   *adults only
• Naughty Little Vamp (guest post)
• Online Book Review (guest post)

Grand prize: a Kobo eReader. 

View the prize list & rules.

A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down.

Get Your Copy Of Lancelot's Lady At KoboBooks, Amazon Or Smashwords.

Day 12 of Cherish the Romance Virtual Book Tour

On Day 12 of my 15 day, 115+ blogs tour, please pick up your copy of Lancelot's Lady today and check out my blog stops to enter to win great prizes.

Here's today's blog stop schedule:

• The Rantings & Ravings of Jeanne St. James (guest post)   *adults only
• Coffee with a Canine (interview - leave comments at my blog)
• International Heat (guest post)
• Ohio Girl Loves Crafts (guest post)
• The Laundry List (interview)
• The Hot Author Report (guest post)
• Agora2 (guest post)
• Heather Hiestand (guest post)
• Stacy Juba (guest post)
• The suspense is killing me (charity fundraiser)

Follow me during my tour and enter to win great prizes. If you comment on ANY blog stop post with your email address, you're guaranteed to receive a free ebook.

Grand prize: a Kobo eReader. 

View the prize list & rules.

A Bahamas holiday from dying billionaire JT Lance, a man with a dark secret, leads palliative nurse Rhianna McLeod to Jonathan, a man with his own troubled past, and Rhianna finds herself drawn to the handsome recluse, while unbeknownst to her, someone with a horrific plan is hunting her down.

Get your copy of Lancelot's Lady At KoboBooks, Amazon Or Smashwords.