Meet Author, James Hatch

Interview Questions for James Hatch:

What would you like your readers to know about you?

First, thank you for inviting me here, Sarah. I’ve always admired your work and encouraging words for other authors, so I’m especially flattered to be here.

Relative to me, I would say I am a passionate person. When I write, I write. When I work, I work. I am highly focused, to the exclusion of almost everything except what I’m working on at the time. I throw myself at projects until I complete them, regardless of the frustration. I think a lot of Ph.D.s are that way. You have to have stamina to get through school, all the way, just as you need stamina to complete a 300-page novel. If a person is not passionate, he or she won’t get anything done. I am passionate, but also somewhat frivolous. I dance, fish, write, review works by others, collect art, build things, work in the yard and occasionally tend grandchildren. None of these things make the world a better place, but I justify that by repeating to myself, You’ve already paid your dues. Changing the world is for the young. At this time of life, I cherish my vote … and never waste an opportunity to use it.

How has your writing impacted –or significantly changed—other aspects of your life?

I am very lucky in this regard. I have retired three times, and choose to never work again. Unlike many authors who struggle to fit writing into their busy schedules, I have the luxury of scheduling other activities around my writing. There are times, however, when conflicts at home arise – mostly when my wife has some computer issue or mechanical problem. My cat can also be a distraction. We have all gradually come to a compromise. When I write, I begin very early in the morning and continue until around noon. The cat gets to go outside when it is still dark and my wife gets to sleep in as long as she likes. This works for both of them. It also works for me.  

How do you market or generate a mainstream, typical reader’s interest in your books?

This is the million dollar question, isn’t it? The short answer is that I haven’t found the key yet. I use Facebook (personal and professional), Goodreads, Amazon author’s page, Myspace, and Blogger, but have only recently passed the one thousand friend level on my personal page and my professional page only has a couple hundred “likers.” I have attended book fairs, submit to at least three blogs per month on various sites, won local writing competitions, placed third in a cover competition, presented at area book clubs, managed to get a half-page spread in our local newspaper, and will be included in a central Texas magazine (Tex-Appeal) soon, but reaching large numbers of people is almost impossible. All I can say is I have faith in my novels, especially the comedies (The Substitute, Oh, Heavens, Miss Havana! and The Training Bra). When people read those books, they love them and laugh until they cry. That is my motivation to keep trying. People need to know what they are missing. The whole world needs a good laugh.

Please share some of the ways in which you have found most effective to promote your work.

I believe my two most effective promotion approaches are jokes and reviews, but I could be wrong. I try to post one of my book covers with relatively clean jokes on Facebook at least three to four times per week. The jokes are funny and I receive lots of feedback from all over the world relative to them from my Facebook friends. I believe I have a lot of followers associated with the jokes, and my covers are always “out there” for people to see. I have probably sold more books because of jokes than anything else. On a serious side, I read a lot. I review books written by other authors and post the reviews on my site at http://cookinwithmisshavana.blogspot.com/. The reviews garner the attention of the individuals who follow the authors I review, and I try to ensure the reviews are (1) fair, (2) flawlessly written and (3) include a reference to one of my own books in the “Reviewed By” title. The reviews also get posted on Amazon and Goodreads, so others see the by-line as well. 

Your paranormal novels are unique, even the titles are very different. So, James, tell us from where you get your quirky story ideas.

Quirky? The living dead are quirky. My heroes are just plain dead. The concept for Miss Havana came to me in a dream. I had recently finished a romantic novel called Aftermath Horizon, which I still consider one of my best, and wondered what I’d write next as I drifted off to sleep. It hit me about 1 a.m. I woke up laughing and literally ran to my computer to begin writing The Substitute. The characters took on a life of their own, and I laughed all the way through writing the book, even becoming light headed at times. The novel took only two months to complete, and is my most successful work to date. I think that will change when The Training Bra is released. The Training Bra is drop dead hilarious … in the literal sense … even more so, in my editor’s opinion, than The Substitute.

If you could choose an animal that best represents your inner spirit, what animal would you choose? What characteristics do you share with your animal mascot?

Oh, I don’t know. Maybe one of those strange looking little dogs that hot Hollywood actresses carry everywhere in their oversized purses – even into their dressing rooms. That might be fun. I could be pampered, and I find women fascinating. That’s probably the reason I often write as Miss Havana. Now you know the reason we never show her face on my book covers. I am also one of the Sweet ‘n Sexy Divas and write for that blog once each month. My 84-year-old beta reader says I write better as a woman than as a man. I’m not sure what to make of that, since I lack many of the basic qualifications for being female.

Tell us about your current and past projects.

I have written eight novels and one short story so far, with my first publishing contract being awarded in November 2009. Three novels are Sci-Fi (The Judge, Infinity Quest and The Empress of Tridon), two novels and one short story are contemporary fiction (Kill Zone, “The Final Experiment” and Aftermath Horizon), and three novels are paranormal comedy (The Substitute, Oh, Heavens, Miss Havana! and The Training Bra). I suspect I have been searching for a genre that fits me well, and I think I’ve found it in paranormal comedy.

What’s up next for you? Any upcoming releases and/or WIPs on your desk?

I am currently editing The Training Bra in conjunction with my editor at Solstice Publishing, Cheryl Nichols. I have also begun the fourth Miss Havana novel called The Trophy Wife. In all Miss Havana novels, the heroine is a different physical woman, but has the same name (for different reasons). More important, she has the same spirit … mostly evil. Her nefarious nature gets her murdered early in each book, but there are afterlife lessons to be learned, and, as slow as she is to change, she makes progress toward being a better spirit. In The Trophy Wife, I want her to make the “good spirit” transition … and become God’s main squeeze. Just as she had a child with Lucifer in The Substitute (Lilith), I expect she will have one with God as well … Angel. That will lead to the fifth novel called Sisters, which should be throat-slitting funny.  

Where can readers find you?

http://cookinwithmisshavana.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/JamesLHatch

https://www.facebook.com/pages/James-L-Hatch/122349661172963

http://www.amazon.com/James-L.-Hatch/e/B005CQB6E6

Thank you, Sara, for allowing me to visit your blog, and to all of you who waded through this interview, thanks for reading!

Sincerely,

James L. Hatch

Author for Eternal Press, Solstice Publishing and xoxopublishing.com

The Training Bra

To be published by Solstice Publishing

Blurb:

Hilarious Comedy that follows "The Substitute" and "Oh, Heavens, Miss Havana!"

Oh Heavens, Miss Havana

Buy link at Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/Heavens-Miss-Havana-James-Hatch/dp/1470091682/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&qid=1345854203&sr=8-31&keywords=books+by+james+hatch

Blurb:

Publisher: Solstice Publishing Printer: Createspace Having performed a single selfless act, Miss Havana finds herself on probation in heaven. After many missteps, she discovers she still retains the powers she had as The Queen of Darkness, and realizes she’s on probation as much to keep her from joining forces with her daughter, The Princess of Darkness, as anything else. The Brazilian, a large black man with a dreadlocks beard who waxes regularly, is her “guide”, but she ignores his advice until he’s taken off her case. Guideless and in a foreign environment, she consorts with evil spirits from her former realm, especially Waldo, a shadow creature so named because he’s so hard to find. She acquires a copy of “The Angels Guide to Earth”, comes to believe she is the Angel of Death, and returns to the surface as an advice columnist and assassin. She wreaks havoc before God intervenes for a final showdown...which, as it turns out, isn’t as final as most would hope.

The Substitute:

Buy link:

Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Substitute-ebook/dp/B004M18UI2/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1345853801&sr=8-10&keywords=books+by+james+hatch

Blurb:

Miss Havana’s public persona was far from the truth because, in her capacity as substitute teacher, the small community where she lived knew her as the breathtakingly beautiful young woman who demanded every student learn, but in her private life, ostensibly caring for aging parents in Chicago, she raced through the lives of powerful men, leaving a wake of destruction…and a deep desire for revenge. Little did she realize her conflicted life would end in a chaotic death at an early age, and to an eternal conflict with the devil.

You're Invited to 2 places on August 18 & 19

                                                                                

                                                                            Photo from Free Photos at Photobucket

I'm going to have a busy weekend August 18-19. I have 2 blogs coming up on that Saturday and Sunday.
I am honored to post my first post on the prestigious, Sweethearts of the West blog. This blog is all about the west and the authors who post monthly, are western writers both contemporary and historic. All of my posts will be on the 18th and 19th of every month.
This month will be an introduction about me and my work. After this, I plan to write some articles about the historic west, some funny, some informative and some just weird. So, I hope you'll join me there once a month starting August 18 & 19.
SWEETHEARTS OF THE WEST:  http://sweetheartsofthewest.blogspot.com/
I am also going to be on the Fifty Authors From Fifty States blog talking about my home, North Carolina on August 18. I have included tags to check out some of my favorite places to visit in North Carolina and I'll tell you a bit about them. I hope you'll come and see what I have to say about the state I love in which I love to live.
You know I want you there so I hope you'll make me happy and come on over and comments are welcome.
FIFTY AUTHORS FROM FIFTY STATES:   http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com/

Come See Me At Once Upon A Word

I'll be blogging at Once Upon A Word about the challenge of creating a hero with health issues. My new release, HEART SONG, has such a hero. Gideon is a musician on the brink of an outstanding career.  He has the perfect life with money and a trophy girlfriend when he learns he has cancer. His life is about to change in ways he never imagined. I hope you'll visit me on July 25 and 26 and learn more about my hero and my book, HEART SONG.
http://onceuponaword1.blogspot.com/
It's on sale for 99 cents.
BUY LINKS:

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Song-ebook/dp/B008G1GKJ0/
Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/177196
Monkeybars
https://www.monkeybars.net/PbRJV
https://www.monkeybars.net/monkey/thing/5585f4cdefcaaa1f6d7fabaf22ced78e

Happy Fourth of July

It's hot as all get-out here in North Carolina. Still, as far as I know, we're going to have fireworks. I heard on the news that some parts of the USA there is a ban of fireworks because of the drought and heat.  What a shame. My neighbors usually set off some fantastic fireworks that I can see from my deck.  Very nice.
I'm not sure what our plan is for celebrating but I'm sure it will involve some good food. Right now I'm thinking air conditioning and ice cream.  LOL
What you planning?  Do you have any family traditions for celebrating the 4th of July?
If you're driving anywhere, stay safe.

HEART SONG JUST RELEASED

HEART SONG has just released by Publishing by Rebecca Vickery and is now live for 99 cents at the following locations:


Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/177196
Monkeybars
https://www.monkeybars.net/PbRJV

https://www.monkeybars.net/monkey/thing/5585f4cdefcaaa1f6d7fabaf22ced78e

HEART SONG will also be available at Amazon.com for .99 any minute.

BLURB:

Facing death might change Gideon’s life.

Heart Song Blurb

Gideon thought he had the perfect life as a musician with a beautiful model as his girlfriend, until he was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Ashamed and afraid he may die, Gideon hits bottom when his girlfriend dumps him for a real man.

Hope comes in the form of his father’s ghost and a person he has just met. Can he beat the odds and survive? And if he does, can he ever find happiness again?

EXCERPT:

Gideon pushed the button in his hand that would bring him relief. 

Maybe it was the morphine that caused him to slip into some kind of hallucination or maybe he was just dreaming—or wishing. The room appeared filled with white fog so thick that nothing remained visible beyond the bed where he lay. A fragrance drifted on the fog almost like a memory of forest, pungent cedar, rich, leaf-covered earth and sun warmed water. 

Gideon knew before the form appeared through the fog to stand at the foot of his bed that his father had come to him. He closed his eyes against the visage and yearned for it to be real even though he knew it couldn’t be. His parents had died two years ago in a car accident. But, when he blinked his eyes open once again, his dad was still there—a slim, tall man wearing waders and a fishing hat over his thick, silver hair. A narrow fringe of white mustache graced his upper lip as he smiled that lopsided way that Gideon remembered so well. He seemed so real that Gideon felt a lump of suppressed emotions form in his throat and wanted to cry with pure joy. All he could manage to say in a whisper was, “Pop? Is that you?” 

I will be giving away a copy of HEART SONG to a commenter  on my blog Sarah's Provocative Ponderings on July 5th. :  http://pasttheprint.blogspot.com/  

I hope you'll join me there.

Sarah

Belated Happy Father's Day

                                                                My Dad back in  the day.
I had so much trouble getting my blogger to work in the last few days that I couldn't write any posts and, unfortunately, didn't get to post a Father's Day note.
I hope everyone had a wonderful day yesterday in celebration of Father's Day.

Heart Song Contracted

Heart Song , a short story, has been contracted with Publishing by Rebecca Vickery for the 99 cent book store. Hopefully, it should be available at the end of June.  I am so excited about this story.

Facing death might change Gideon’s life.

Blurb:
Gideon thought he had the perfect life as a musician with a beautiful model as his girlfriend, until he was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Ashamed and afraid he may die, Gideon hits bottom when his girlfriend dumps him for a “real” man.
Hope comes in the form of his father’s ghost and a person he has just met. Can he beat the odds and survive? And if he does, can he ever find happiness again?

Can A Secondary Character Become A Hero?

When I wrote Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride (time travel/western), I had no intention of using a secondary character as a hero in another story or writing a sequel. As I began to write about the Iron Slipper Saloon in Hazard, Wyoming, a homeless teenage boy named Banjo walked into the story and I couldn't get him off my mind. What was it about him that was so special that I had to give him his own story?


I hope you'll join me today at Nancy Jardine's Blog.

Maybe you've done the same thing with one of your secondary characters. I'd love to hear from you.

Nancy Jardine’s Blog:

http://nancyjardine.blogspot.com

Mother's Day

I haven't really celebrated Mother's Day since 1974 when Mom died. 
I don't have any children so I don't get flowers, chocolate or breakfast in bed.  I suppose, if I were somebody's mom, it might be a happy day for me in spite of losing my mother before she had a chance to grow old.
But I do remember her on Mother's Day.  I light a candle beside her picture and I write a little note or buy her a card and lay it there knowing that, somehow, wherever her spirit resides, she knows I thought of her and love her still.  This is the day I miss her the most. She meant the world to me. . .she still does.
For those of you who still have your moms, I hope you celebrate your love for her today in your own special way.  And if you are a mom, I wish you a happy and loving day with your family.
Sarah

THE CALL OF THE WRITER

Today I am blogging about the thing inside each writer that pushes them to write.  Was it always there? When did you first hear the call to be a writer?  I hope you'll cpome on over to Sarah's Provocative Ponderings at Renee Vincent's place and tell me how and when the writer bug bit you.
Even if you're not a writer, you might want to find out what them critters tick.
I'd love to hear from you.
http://pasttheprint.blogspot.com/

Happy Earth Day

Happy Earth Day everyone. 

 Let's take care of her 'cause she's all we got. . . unless one of ya'll has a ticket to Mars or something.

The Light of Valmora: Page 77, 7 Sentences after line 7

Here is my answer to the Facebook challenge via tag to post page 77, the last 7 sentences from my WIP.  I have submitted The Light of Valmora but my next WIP is only at page 11 so here goes:
Page 77 from The Light of Valmora, 7 sentences after 7 lines down:

Falcon saw the confusion in her eyes as if she realized to her horror that she just kissed the wrong brother.


The violin stopped playing. A unified gasp escaped the crowd and filled the air followed by expectant silence. A menacing hand pulled at Falcon’s arm and forced him to release Izabelle. Falcon turned to confront the intruder and glared into Peregrine’s enraged aqua eyes.

Izabelle stepped back and pressed the back of her hand against her mouth. Falcon couldn’t miss the shock on her face as he turned to confront his brother.

Using Real History In A Story--And A Prize

While researching the history of World War I for my latest release, For Love of Banjo, I came across some very interesting facts about the Fifteenth Calvary Regiment that I used when I sent my hero into battle.  I even found the insignia used by the Fifteenth Regiment Calvary of the United States.
I'll be giving away a choice of a PDF copy of one of my books, The Violin, Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride or For Love of Banjo to someone who comments.  I hope to see you there.

http://theworldofheavenoshey.blogspot.com/?zx=c0ac59d49f1acd18

Sarah

I'll be at Sweehearts of the West March 22--Prize to give away

Thursday, March 22, I'll be at The Sweethearts of the West talking about The legend of The Ghost Ship on the Platte River in Wyoming. To some it is known as The Ship of Death and foretells the death of someone close to the person who sees it. *shiver*


I'll be giving away a copy of my new release, For Love of Banjo, to one of the commenters. Be sure to add your email address for a chance to win. I hope to see you there. Just follow this tag:

http://sweetheartsofthewest.blogspot.com/

Sarah J. McNeal

My Irish in America Blog and a Prize

I hope you'll join me tomorrow at Judy Nickles' blog.  I'll be talking about the Irish in America--they weren't alway lucky or liked.  I'll be giving away a copy of my western time travel book, Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride to a commenter so be sure to leave your email addy in your comment for a chance to win.  Here's the tag to her website:

Judy Nickles:   http://www.judythewordplace.blogspot.com/

I hope celebrate Saint Patrick's Day with me and maybe win a book while you're there.

Slan's beannachd!

(Health and a blessing!)

For Love of Banjo to Release March First

The sequel to Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride will release on March first--tomorrow.  For Love of Banjo is the story the homeless teenager that saved Lola's life and almost died.

Here is the excerpt from Harmonica Joe when Banjo tried to save Lola from the killer:

Excerpt:

“Don’t you sass me now, Callie. I’ve come to collect what belongs to me. If I don’t git my money, I’m taking you with me and make you work it off.” He gripped her tight around the waist and started making for the door when a voice called out, loud and clear halting his retreat.

“You let her go, Taylor. That’s not Callie you fool. Her name is Lola and she hasn’t done anything to you. Let her go, I say.” Banjo walked toward them with a big butcher knife in his hand that he must have picked up from under the bar.

Lola’s fear doubled into a knot that sat in her throat and threatened to cut off her breath. “It’s okay, Banjo. I’m okay. I’ll just go along with Weston for now and we’ll talk things out.” She took a shaky breath trying with all her might to summon up her courage. “I’m sure, once I talk to him, he’ll know he has the wrong woman.”

“Get out of my way, you good for nothing snot nosed boy. I ain’t got time for wet nursing right now.” Weston spewed spittle when he talked turning Lola’s stomach until she thought she might throw up right then and there.

“Shut the hell up, Taylor. Let her go, or I’ll put this knife right through your heart.” Banjo inched closer and closer.

And here is a Banjo's own story, For Love of Banjo:

Deceit stands between Banjo Wilding’s love for Maggie O’Leary and his search for the father he never knew.


Blurb:

Banjo Wilding wears a borrowed name and bears the scars and reputation of a lurid past. To earn the right to ask for Margaret O’Leary’s hand, he must find his father and make something of himself.

Margaret O’Leary has loved Banjo since she was ten years old but standing between her and Banjo is pride, Banjo’s mysterious father and the Great War.

Excerpt:

“Did Daddy swear he’d beat the tar out of you if you tried to seduce me?” They both laughed but Maggie’s skin heated at the idea of being alone with Banjo in the warm seclusion of her home.


“You know Sam, it was more than that. He swore he’d hunt me down, strip the skin from my hide and then he would shoot me if I took advantage of you.” He grinned then the smile slipped away and, in the moments of silence after, Banjo grew serious as he gazed into Maggie’s eyes. “I admit, Maggie, it would be worth a hide-stripping to spend a night with you in my arms.”

Heat gathered in her abdomen and moved down between her legs at the very thought of Banjo with his hands on her bare flesh. “Did you promise Daddy you wouldn’t?” Her words came out breathless and rode on little foggy clouds in the cold, crisp air.

“I’m afraid so.”


BUY LINKS:
For Love of Banjo:
Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/136814


Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=for+love+of+banjo+by+sarah+mcneal
For Love of Banjo will be available at other bookstores very soon as well.
 
For Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride:
Available at Western Trail Blazer Novels


http://westerntrailblazer.yolasite.com/online-store.php

Available at Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=harmonica+joe%27s+reluctant+bride+by+sarah+mcneal&x=20&y=22

Lulu Book Store:

http://www.lulu.com/browse/search.php?search_forum=-1&search_cat=2&show_results=topics&return_chars=200&search_keywords=&keys=&header_search=true&search=&locale=&sitesearch=lulu.com&q=&fListingClass=5&fSearch=harmonica+joe%27s+reluctant+bride&fSubmitSearch.x=5&fSubmitSearch.y=9

Smashwords:

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/53550



and Barnes & Noble

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Harmonica-Joes-Reluctant-Bride/Sarah-McNeal/e/9781461087731?r=1,%201&if=N&cm_mmc=Goodreads-_-k117601-_-j12871747k117601-_-Primary

Both books may be ordered in e-book, Kindle and paperback

Happy Valentine's Day

I hope you're all celebrating with your special someone.  I have a little list of things I'd like to have today starting with Mr. Ben Mouse and his lovely banjo tunes...

Then a few red roses wouldn't hurt...

And a big ol' box of delicious chocolate ought to just about take care of my Valentine's Day list.

So what's on your list of Valentine's Day delights?  Maybe a knight in shining armor?

Well, whatever your desires are today, I hope they all come true.  Have a wonderful Valentine's Day.

Log Lines and a Contest

Some readers may not know what a logline is. Besides serving as a torment to authors, loglines give the essence of a book boiled down to one sentence that is less than 25 words long. Kind of tricky. It used to scare me to death but then I started practicing doing it in ten words or less.


Today I am at the Logline Blog with the logline from Harmonica Joe’s Reluctant Bride, Yeah. I know. The title is almost a logline. Any way, if you come over and leave a comment, you will be eligible to win a gift certificate for Amazon.com or ARE for $20. They give away a monthly prize of a gift certificate so that’s a nice little bonus.

Here’s the tag to get there:

http://theloglineblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/harmonica-joes-reluctant-bride.html

I hope I see you there.

Sarah

Chance to Win $20 Gift Certificate

On Thursday, February 9, my log line for Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride will post at the Log Line Blog.  Just for commenting, you will have a chance to win a $20 gift certificate to Amazon.com or ARe.
On Thursday go to this tag: 

http://www.theloglineblog.blogspot.com/

I hope to see you there.

Sarah

The Violin (revised edition) received a 5 Star Review

Manic Readers reviewer, Alberta, gave the revised edition of  The Violin a 5 star review.  Thank you so much, Alberta, for making my day.
Here is the complete review:
Full Review from Manic readers:

Release Date: 12/04/11

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 215

Publisher: Rebecca J. Vickery
Review:

I love time travel romances, and I loved this one. Genevieve is a product of the foster child system, a repressed, self-conscious, shy, unloved and unlovable teacher with dreams of an unknown man that recur nightly.

When she sees an auction for an old violin, she feels compelled to buy it, behaving totally out of character for her staid self. Inside she finds information about the owner who drowned in 1927. She embarks on a journey to find out more about the man, his family and the violin. She manages to go back in time to 1927, meets and falls in love with John, the owner of the violin.

She is welcomed by family and friends but she knows she must try and save John’s life, before returning to her own time. Their love is doomed to separation by years or death or both.

The Violin is intricately written, and the difference in personality between Genevieve in the present day to Genevieve in 1927 is clearly defined and startling. The whole town seems to know something that she doesn’t, but when she finds out what that is, she can’t or won’t believe it could possibly be true. I loved the characters, both main and secondary, and the conflicts are satisfactorily resolved. I think you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.

To view the complete review at Manic Readers, here is the tag:

http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=21322

Happy New Year!

I wish you all a very happy, prosperous, peaceful and love-filled New Year.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Wherever you are, whatever you're doing for the holidays, I wish you peace, joy and prosperity and many it continue throughout the year.

Please welcome Stephanie Burkhart

Pleas welcome Stephanie Burkhart with us, the author of paranormal and extraordinary stories to my blog today. She is offering a give-away today with details at the end of the blog.

STEPH: Thanks for having me here today, Sarah. I was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire. At 18 I joined the Army wanting a great adventure. And I got it.  I've been to Germany, France, Denmark, Poland, and Hungary just to name a few countries. I was married in 1991 and left the Army in 1997. Now I work for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. I'm married with two young sons, ages 9 and 5.




You can find me on the web at:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com



My recent novels include:

The Budapest Moon Series

Paranormal/werewolf romance



The Hungarian

The Count's Lair

Danube in Candlelight

The Windsor Diaries

Steampunk romance

Victorian Scoundrel

Moldavian Moon Series

Paranormal/werewolf romance

The Wolf's Torment

Twilight Over Moldavia – releases 1 JAN 2012

Releasing 15 DEC 2011:

The Faberge Secret

A contemporary Christmas Romance



My other Christmas stories include:

Christmas in Bayeux and

Feast of Candles in the 2011 Christmas Collection released by Victory Tales Press

A picture of the Danish Royal Castle


SARAH: How do you usually come up with a story idea? Dreams? Writer’s journal? Eavesdropping on conversations? Newspaper?

STEPH: I don't dream so my inspiration for stories don't come through them. I get a germ of an idea and then I research. From the research I get "what if" questions which form a basic plot. Then I flesh out the characters using bios and establishing internal conflict. I call this "preliminary" work and it usually takes 2-3 weeks to really flesh out.

SARAH: Who or what inspires you when your creative mojo is lagging?

STEPH: It never lags. Sounds scary, doesn't it? There is always an idea in my head.

SARAH: Who is your Yoda—your seasoned mentor?

STEPH: Gosh, I'd have to say, if anything, I want to write books like Diana Crosby – really polished in setting, characterization, and plot.

SARAH: What importance do you place on writing workshops? What workshops would you recommend to us?

STEPH: I think writing workshops are great. Unfortunately, my time is very limited with real life commitments. I wish I could attend more workshops than I do.

SARAH: What person would you like to thank for inspiring you in your writing aspirations? How did this person help you?

STEPH: Dina Hickman. She made me believe I could be a writer.

SARAH: Have you ever used songs for inspiration?



STEPH: You bet! "Astronomy" by Blue Oyster Cult is "Stefan's and Caroline's" song. They are my hero and heroine from my upcoming release, "Twilight Over Moldavia."



SARAH: Do you play music when you write? If so, what kind? Or, do you have to have silence or background noise to set your writing muse free?



STEPH: If I do play music, I like to play Kevin MacLeod's music. It's mellow and peaceful and doesn't disturb my train of thought.

SARAH: Do you read in a different genre than you write? If yes, why? If you read in the same genre that you write, do you feel that it influences your writing in any way?

STEPH: I'll read anything, but honestly, I'm picky about reading paranormals. I really enjoy Karen Michelle Nutt's paranormals and Barbara Edwards because they write paranormals with the focus on the man and not the creature he is.

I'm more flexible with my contemporary writing and reading, and I'll read a wider variety of those, but prefer those with an international setting.

SARAH: What is your process from idea to first draft?

STEPH: Research. Researching gives me ideas. I do a lot of sketching with pen and paper.

SARAH: Have you ever given assistance to a struggling new writer? Has another writer ever come to your aide? How?

STEPH: I haven't given any assistance per se, but I am a moderator on Writing.com. I find it's hard to give assistance to new writers only because they aren't really receptive to feedback. I'm willing to give feedback, but I think that receptiveness comes with maturity as you grow as a writer. As far as another writer helping me, I don't mind. Sometimes they see angles I don't see.

SARAH: What do you consider your greatest accomplishments in your career so far?

STEPH: Publishing with multiple publishers. It lets me know a variety of publishers are interested in my writing and that means a lot.

SARAH: If you won the big lottery, what would you do with the money? Would give any of it to charity? If so, which one?

STEPH: I think I'd square away my mortgage first, lol!! Yes, I definitely support charities. I think the closest ones to my heart involve hemophilia, a blood disease that can now be managed for those who have it, and any charities or organizations having to do with sensory integration dysfunction. My 5 year old son, Joseph, has sensory issues and it's been a challenge to meet his needs at times. (SID) can present on its own, but it is very commonly associated with Autism because a lot of autistic children have sensory issues. A great book to read is "Raising a Sensory Smart Child." It's helped me a lot identify what my son needs regarding regulating his senses. After that, I'd like to support Autistic awareness and research behind autism.

SARAH: What is the best advice you want to give to a new writer?

STEPH: Be receptive about learning the craft. Learn everything you can. Be open to the advice other writers offer.



SARAH: What characteristics do you like to instill in your heroes? What characteristics do you feel are necessary for a good heroine?



STEPH: I like my heroes to be noble. From nobility comes honor, integrity, and strength. I like heroines to be clever. I don't like the typical heroine in distress. I'd like her to make her own choices and decisions. I'd like her to project an inner strength, but show vulnerability when she's alone.



My release in the 2011 Christmas Collection from Victory Tales Press is called: "Feast of Candles." Here's a blurb & excerpt. Enjoy!

BLURB: Drake de Brettville is going to take the biggest risk of his life – because of a bottle of wine. When Drake's brother returns to their home in Denmark with a bottle of wine from the Marquand Winery, Drake finds himself compelled to discover who the wine maker is. Intrigued to learn that the owner is a young woman named Lily Marquand, Drake travels to Napa Valley, California, to meet her. When Drake finds Lily, the sparks fly. Lily is that rare woman who stimulates him like no other, but to win her love, Drake has to shatter the battlements that guard her heart and prove to her Christmas wishes do come true.



EXCERPT:



Drake walked forward, stopping before her. White string lights sparkled on the tree, sending soft shadows over his cheeks. The room was empty. The doormen were escorting guests to their cars.



"What makes me believe it's Christmas is light." His voice was low and purposefully seductive. His nearness made her senses spin.



"Light? I don't understand."



"In Denmark, the sun rises after eight in the morning and sets before four in the afternoon, so light is important in our Christmas traditions. Candlelight drives away the gloom and creates a warmth and coziness for many families during this cold and dark time of year. This last weekend my family gathered to light our first candle on the Advent wreath."



"Family is important to you?" She had to know.



"Very. And you?"



"My mother passed away when I was a little girl, and my father threw his heart and soul into the winery. I have an uncle, but he lives in New York. I grew up not knowing what a close family was like."



His compelling eyes riveted her to the spot as they hinted of sadness. He reached out and cupped her cheek, gently stroking her jaw with his thumb. "I'm sorry. You shouldn't be alone at Christmas."



"I'm used to the loneliness." She closed her eyes briefly, enjoying his touch far too much.



He drew close, pressing the length of his body against hers. Her pulse quickened even as a sense of caution flooded through her. She opened her eyes and placed her hand over his, while placing her other hand over his chest to stop him from drawing closer. Despite her attraction, she wasn't quite ready to allow a kiss.



He stared into her eyes, keeping his hand on her waist. "What's wrong?"



"Nothing." She hesitated. "Everything. You…" her voice trailed off. Silence grew between them. God, what had she been thinking? Was it possible to have a future with him?

BUY LINKS:



AMAZON KINDLE:

http://www.amazon.com/2011-Christmas-Collection-Sensual-ebook/dp/B005Z8VOVG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1323215183&sr=1-1



BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/2011-christmas-collection-vtp-anthologies/1107079792?ean=2940032828143&itm=1&usri=2011+christmas+collection+sensual+spicy



SMASHWORDS:

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/99059



FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com



TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart



FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Burkhart-Author/149938795021166



GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

Contest:  You won't want to miss this!!!!

GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment and tell me what your favorite Christmas Carol is. I'll come back on the 14th and announce a winner. The winner receives a decorative cloth Christmas tree, candles and chocolate.

For Love of Banjo the cover

This is the cover for my soon to be released sequel to Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride, For Love of Banjo.  It's a World War I story.
Deceit stands between Banjo Wilding’s love for Maggie O’Leary and his search for the father he never knew.


Blurb:

Banjo Wilding wears a borrowed name and bears the scars and reputation of a lurid past. To earn the right to ask for Margaret O’Leary’s hand, he must find his father and make something of himself.

Margaret O’Leary has loved Banjo since she was ten years old but standing between her and Banjo is pride, Banjo’s mysterious father and the Great War.

Will either of them find happiness?

Please Welcome Ginger Simpson

I am pleased to introduce Ginger Simpson to my blog. I hope you enjoy her interview and the excerpt from her book, Shortcomings. 


Please give us your website addy, a list of your books and a short bio.



My website address is http://www.gingersimpson.com and there is a short bio and all my books are listed there. I don’t think you want me to list them all here since I’ve been doing this for over ten years now and have amassed quite a backlist. I’ll just say I’m an old married woman, living in TN, who dotes on her only grandchild (Spencer), and loves to write.



How do you usually come up with a story idea? Dreams? Writer’s journal? Eavesdropping on conversations? Newpaper?

My inspiration for stories are character driven. I’ve only written one book that wasn’t, and The Locket was the hardest book for me to write, aside from my debut/swan song Erotica which I wrote under a pen name. In The Locket, I didn’t have a character with a road map handy to lead me, so I had to try to plot, which I suck at. I’m a pantser, tried and true.



Who or what inspires you when your creative mojo is lagging?

Until recently, I found no inspiration when my characters took a hiatus from speaking to me, but I recently tossed around a few ideas with some fellow author friends and found an event that got my character involved again. Since this was the first conversation lapse between me and my heroine, I was a tad worried. Thankfully, Hattie’s Hero is back on track, and Hattie, although not the chatterbox she was, is at least telling her story again.



Who is your Yoda—your seasoned mentor?

I’d have to say Laura Ingalls Wilder. Although I’ve drifted back and forth in genres, I always tend to return to my “roots” in the old west. I grew up reading all of Ms. Wilder’s books, and although my adult self drifted to more mature storylines, I still attribute my love for historical novels to my esteemed yoda, LIW.



What importance do you place on writing workshops? What workshops would you recommend to us?

Honestly, I’ve only registered for two, and although I found them interesting and did glean a few helpful tips, as a pantser, I still have to rely on my characters. You can’t teach a non-plotter to plot. It just doesn’t come easy. But… every editing session is like a workshop for me. I’ve not come away from one where I didn’t learn a valuable lesson.

Oh, and the two workshops I did attend were presented by Cheryl St. John, a very talented HQ historical author. I highly recommend her workshops because she presents them in language you can easily understand, provides handouts, and lots of time for question and answers. BTW, I receive no compensation for my endorsement. lol



What person would you like to thank for inspiring you in your writing aspirations? How did this person help you?

Aside from my Yoda, I’d have to say that Maddy Baker and Cassie Edwards have been my inspiration. I believe I’ve read just about every western romance they’ve penned, and I’ll always consider them to be mentors.



Have you ever used songs for inspiration?



No, but I do listen to music while I write. I love R&B. In my opinion, real R&B died with Luther Vandross.



Do you play music when you write? If so, what kind? Or, do you have to have silence or background noise to set your writing muse free?



Gosh, I’m good. I saw this question coming and answered it. Silence is something I never enjoy. I really don’t want to, because that will mean I’m dead. I have a malformed carotid artery on both sides of my head, so I hear the blood rushing to my brain. I always have either the TV or radio going in the background, and at night, I sleep with a white noise machine. The diagnosing doctor told me if he had that noise in his head, he’d shoot himself. It’s not an option for me. I have so much to do and so little time to do it. 



Do you read in a different genre than you write? If yes, why? If you read in the same genre that you write, do you feel that it influences your writing in any way?

Of course, my favorite reads are always going to be western historical romance, but I’ve branched into other genres through reviewing. I’m glad I ventured out because the experience prompted me to try my hand outside my comfort zone. Although I feel I’ve shown my writing versatility, I still prefer good old cowboy and Indian sagas.



What is your process from idea to first draft?

Listen and type. I used to just write, write, write, but my internal editor does catch some of the obvious writing issues along the way. As long as my characters are talking, my fingers are busy.



Have you ever given assistance to a struggling new writer? Has another writer ever come to your aide? How?

I’m a great believer in team playing and I see my peers as my teammates. If we all share what we learn, then we all benefit in the process. My blog and yahoo group have an open door, and I love interacting with other authors. Some of them have inspired me in ways they’ll never know.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishments in your career so far?

That after ten years, I’m still writing and publishing, and even better, garnering new fans.



If you won the big lottery, what would you do with the money? Would give any of it to charity? If so, which one?

If I won the lottery, I’d definitely donate a portion to help Autism research. My nine-year-old grandson, Spencer, was diagnosed at the age of two, and although he’s making progress, I worry about his future. People can be so unkind.



Lottery aside, I wrote a YA based on how we treat one another, and that’s the book I’m promoting here today. Shortcomings’ tag line says it all…our shortcomings don’t define who we are.



What is the best advice you want to give to a new writer?

Listen and learn. Apply what works for you without changing your voice, and above all, believe in yourself.



If you could choose an animal for a mascot, what animal would it be? What do you admire about this animal? Do you feel you have qualities similar to this animal? If so, what are they?

Ohhhh, I am so not an animal lover. Gosh, I can hear the boos from here. I think it stems from loving and losing so many in my life, I’ve found that if I don’t get attached, I don’t have to worry. It’s bad enough to stress over children, and animals become our “kids” if we let them. If you press me to pick one, I suppose I’d pick a gazelle. They’re sleek, fast, elegant, and even their name sounds special. I’m nothing like one, but they possess qualities I wish I had. I’ll probably never survive my father’s first observation of me in high heels… “You look like an elephant on ice picks.”



If money, education and fear factors were set aside, what three careers would you like to attempt other than writing?



I’ve already had a fulfilling career, and a taste of a second one. I spent over 23 years working in higher education, and then spent a year working in the field of corrections. I love what I do right now, but if I was twenty years younger, I’d go back and apply to be a correctional officer again. One shouldn’t wait so long they become a “gun-totin” granny. I loved it.



If money, talent and fear were no object, what big adventure would you like to have?



Sadly, money, talent and fear are objects in the path of almost everything. I always wished I had a stellar singing voice, but although I can carry a tune, I can lug it very far. I’m proud to be an author, so I guess I’ve achieved the biggest adventure I’ll ever attempt. Oh, I did parasail once…does that count?



What characteristics do you like to instill in your heroes? What characteristics do you feel are necessary for a good heroine?



Compassion, understanding, bravery, tenderness…the same traits my true-life hero has. I think we all pattern our characters with the traits we admire most in life.



If you had the power to change two things in the world, what would those two things be?



There are two things I’d eradicate immediately…war and the criminal mind. They sort of go hand-in-hand. I think we all want a kinder, gentler world for our children, but I don’t think even God can make that happen without destroying us and starting all over. We all fight for the greater good, but two steps forward means ten steps back. Although I hoped to deliver a message about bullying in my YA release, there have been bullies for as long as history has been recorded, and there will always be. Someone said it best… “misery loves company.”



If could have a super power for a day, what would it be? Why?

I’d like to be invisible. Why? So I can see what my daughter-in-law does all day instead of housework. Lol

Now, a bit about Ginger Simpson's novel, Shortcomings:

Today, I’m promoting my YA, Shortcomings. All royalties received for the upcoming quarter will be combined with those I received last quarter and presented in a donation to Faces of Hope here in Gallatin, TN. Although bullying has been and will continue to be a fact of life, educating individuals about the differences of others is a starting place to help foster understanding. I think this book carries a powerful message, and, so far, my reviewers seem to agree. Here’s the blurb followed by an excerpt:

Our shortcomings don't define who we are, unless we let them. Cindy Johnson needs to learn that. Born with one leg shorter than the other, she has no self-esteem because of the cruel comments and cold stares she receives from her classmates. When Cory Neil, the football quarterback asks her to Homecoming, she's quite sure he's asked her on a dare and refuses. It takes more than just her mother's assurances that Cindy's beautiful before she realizes she may have made a mistake in turning him down.



Excerpt:

Cindy glanced at the clock above the teacher’s head for the hundredth time since taking a seat. Only ten minutes of class remained. Perspiration dampened her hands at the thought of seeing Cory. She wiped her palms on her skirt then quietly slipped her books into her backpack. What in the world had she been thinking when she agreed to meet him?



The second hand tick, tick, ticked, and with each stroke, her heart beat quickened. Her mind tried to assemble her jumbled thoughts into a proper greeting. Nice to see you! Or, Hey, Cory, glad we could get together. She clenched her teeth. Everything sounded so stupid and rehearsed.



The bell announced the end of the period and startled her from her musing. Hoping she hadn't missed anything important the teacher may have said, she hoisted her backpack onto her shoulder and pushed free from the confines of her desk. The moment was here, and she still hadn't decided if she was filled with dread or just nervous anticipation. Her stomach churned, and the taste of bile rose in her throat. “Oh, God, I should have said no,” she muttered on her way into the hall.



Homecoming banners painted in bright colors hung everywhere. She glanced up and grimaced. She’d never heard of spirit week at her old school; they didn’t even have a football team.

Pausing outside the library, Cindy smoothed her hair into place and took a deep breath. She walked through the doorway and scanned the tables for Cory. He wasn't there yet, thank goodness. At least she didn't have to make her entrance limping over to him. She hurried, found a seat, and rifled through her backpack to find her math book, some paper, and a pen. Poised and ready when he entered, Cindy fixed a smile on her face and tilted her head coquettishly to one side. That seemed to be a pose assumed at least once by her favorite romance heroines. She licked her lips and swallowed, trying to find saliva in a mouth as dry as cotton.



She spied him as soon as he came through the door. Her heart hitched. As he neared, Cindy took a deep breath and prayed whatever she said came out semi-intelligently. She tried to look relaxed, but beneath the table, she pressed on her stomach to quell the flippy thing that happened whenever he was near.



“Hi, Cory.” Her voice held a nervous quiver. Being with a boy was totally new ground.



“Hey, been waiting long?” He plopped his backpack on the table.



She looked up at him, trying to maintain her composure. “Uh, no, I just got here. Are you ready to get started?”



“Yeah, I need all the help I can get.”



“Shhh.” Cindy held a finger to her lips. “We’re in the library, remember?”



He grinned and slid into the chair next to her. “Well, where do we begin?” His voice was so low she barely heard him.



Her fingers trembled as she pulled her math book over and opened it. Cory smelled like he'd just walked out of a shower. His nearness distracted her. “I…I guess we’ll start with what we’re studying in class? How are you with equations?’ She softly cleared her throat to quell the quiver in her voice.



“I suck at them.” His brow creased. “Anything to do with math confuses the heck out of me. If only numbers came as easy as playing football.”



Although she hadn't been to an actual game, visions of him in his uniform flashed through her mind. She’d caught a glimpse of him at a noontime pep rally a few days back and struggled not to stare. A smile tugged at her lips, but she sobered quickly, hoping he hadn’t noticed. She didn't want to act all giddy and stupid despite the fact he was a sight to behold in his shoulder pads and tight pants.



The room grew warmer. She lifted the hair from the back of her neck. “Let’s get started.” She felt a tad breathless, and math offered a welcome distraction.



After an hour, Cindy closed the textbook and leaned closer to him. “Do you think that helped at all? You seemed to be a little clearer than when we started.”



“I’m beginning to understand.” He paused, and with a sheepish shrug adjusted his volume. “But I think I need a few more sessions, if you’re willing?”



His request sounded like music to her ears. A few more sessions? She’d spend a lifetime with him if he asked, but she pushed her girlish thoughts aside and nodded at him. “Not a problem. I don’t really have anything else planned, and this sure beats being at home with a bunch of crazy kids.”



A stray, dark curl hung in the middle of his forehead; Cindy had a sudden urge to reach and brush it back but resisted. His nearness stifled her, made her want to act crazy. She scooted away. “So, tomorrow then?”



Cory stood, but she remained seated. There was no way she wanted to display her uneven gait while walking out with him. “Aren’t you coming?” he asked.



“I still have some homework to do. The library doesn't close for another half hour, so I’m gonna stick around a while longer.”



He picked up his backpack and patted her shoulder. “Okay, so I’ll see you tomorrow. I have practice the day after, but on days I don’t, I really need your help.” He slung his book bag over his shoulder and flashed his trademark smile at her.



Her skin warmed beneath his hand—a feeling she wanted to capture and keep forever. “Sure, I…I’ll meet you here at the same time.” What was it about him that made speaking difficult?



Her gaze remained fixed on him as he walked away. His shoulders were broad even without the pads he wore under his uniform, and his jeans fit just right, not sagging in the backside like some of the boys at school. What she wouldn't give to be the girl he asked to the dance.



You can find this book and many of my works at Muse it Up Publishing (http://www.museituppublishing.com).



Thank you, Sarah, for allowing me time and space on your blog. You definitely asked some great questions.

It was my pleasure to have you on my blog, Ginger.  Thank you for the compliment about my questions. I wish you great success.

Happy Thanksgiving

Wherever you are, wherever you're going, I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with family or friends or both.

Veteran's Day

I want to thank all the men and women in our armed forces putting their lives on the line for their country.  I also want to thank all veterans of foreign wars for their service.  I hope in the near future we can all say to the soldiers we see, "Welcome home."

Real Haunted Houses

For you Halloween viewing pleasure, here are a few proportedly real haunted houses.  I don't know if they're real or not but I wouldn't go in any of them.
So here ya go:

I hope you come to visit again.  In the meantime, I'll leave the light on.

The Cover of The Chistmas Anthology

This is the cover for the Christmas Anthology for Virctory Tales Press.  My story is a paranormal titled Gifts From The Afterlife.  It will be available on November 1.

New Cover for THE VIOLIN

Now that Publishing by Rebecca Vickery has contracted The Violin for re-issue, Laura Schwin has created a new cover for it.  I love this new cover and wanted to share it with you right away.
The Violin is undergoing some referbishing and edits but should be released soon.
I hope you like this cover as much as I do.

BLURB:


Genevieve dreams of him almost every night and has for most of her lonely life. Compelled beyond reason, she buys his violin and finds the remnants of his life and the mystery of his death in 1927 revealed within its case. Intrigued, she makes a decision, one that will change her life forever.

Is there a way to change the past and save this man who haunts her heart?

The Importance of Book Titles

I hope you'll join me at Sarah's Provocative Ponderings on October 5.  I'll be talking about the importance of creating the perfect title for a book.
Here is the tag to get there:

http://pasttheprint.blogspot.com/

Banjo under contract

Banjo, the sequel to Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride is under contract with Western Trail Blazers.  Banjo was the 16 year old kid who saved Lola's life and almost died.  He invents all kinds of little contraptions.  Banjo's story takes place during WWI known as The Great War in 1917.
I used Urs Beuler, the Swiss tenor from IL Divo as my inspiration for Banjo's character.  Here's a picture of Urs.  Try not to drool.

For those of you who have never heard IL Divo, you should check them out.  They sing classic and opera.  Here is a picture from one of their albums.

You can watch them on YouTube, too.
Here is the tagline from Banjo:
Tagline:
Deceit stands between a man’s love and his destiny.
Blurb:

Banjo Wilding wears a borrowed name and bears the scars and reputation of a lurid past. To earn the right to ask for Margaret O’Leary’s hand, he must find his father and make something of himself.

Margaret O’Leary has loved Banjo since she was ten years old but standing between her and Banjo is pride, Banjo’s mysterious father and the Great War.

Will either of them get what they want?

 
I'll let you know when Banjo becomes available.  It hasn't gone into edits yet.

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