The Cherry Trees of Rosings - A Book Blast

 

The Cherry Trees of Rosings: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (The Lizzy Darcy Chronicles) by Morgan Blake

About The Cherry Trees of Rosings

The Cherry Trees of Rosings: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (The Lizzy Darcy Chronicles)
Austenesque, Regency Romance 1st in Series
Publisher: ‎ Ria Majumdar
Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 30, 2025
Paperback Print Length: ‎ 178 pages Digital Print Length: ‎ 180 pages

A Pride & Prejudice variation with a slightly paranormal, mainly comic twist!

When Elizabeth Bennet visits her newly-married friend, Charlotte Collins, at the Hunsford parsonage, she has no idea that Mr. Darcy (he of the arrogant demeanor and perpetual cause of annoyance!) shall turn up to ruin her blissful, idyllic days.

Only, Mr. Darcy is not himself.

And then Elizabeth stumbles straight through him one day... like one would an apparition! Goodness gracious! “Mr. Darcy, I do not know what you mean, but I would appreciate it if you would desist from haunting me!”

“I apologize, Miss Bennet, for scaring you,” Mr. Darcy said, almost regretfully. To solve her haunting problem, Elizabeth must team up with Mr. Darcy to find out what happened to him, and along the way discover that maybe he is not all that he seemed at first. And that maybe...she doesn’t hate him after all. “You wish to write the letter now?” he asked as she moved past him with the candle.

“Well, to be honest,” she glanced at him. “I would prefer to sleep. But since you are here, I do not see why not.” From the antics of Lady Catherine de Bourgh to the hilarity of Mr. Collins’ advice on staying fit, The Cherry Trees of Rosings shall make you laugh and cry in equal measure. And wonder: Will our favourite couple find their happy ever after?

Spoiler: Yes, they will! This Pride and Prejudice variation features our favourite Regency romance couple from Jane Austen's original classic in a somewhat spooky setup. But fear not, dear readers! This story is not scary in the least. Prepare for a chuckle fest and abundant cups of tea!

About Morgan Blake

Morgan Blake writes regency romance novels and Austenesque variations of Pride & Prejudice that are sometimes steamy, sometimes not. Satire is the name of the game and happy ever afters the goal!

Morgan loves exploring themes of personal identity, inner strength, social discourse, and hope alongside enduring love in her stories.

She also believes that strong heroes and heroines are not enough to make a tale worth telling. They need a supporting cast of good and not-so-good characters that add more punch and vibrancy... and some dramatic ridiculousness!

Morgan is a cat friend, tropical girl who prefers winter clothes, perennial fantasy/historical fiction nerd, and a night owl.

Author Website: https://morganblakeauthor.com/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morganblakewriter/  

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563826174842  

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/58275585.Morgan_Blake  

 

Purchase Link - Amazon Book Buy Link/Universal Link

All You Need is Love - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a new release. All You Need is Love by Meg Macy.

 

Blurb:

Longtime friends Jack Riley and Juliette (aka Jules) Baxter are now partners in a new breakfast café, but they are surprised to be confronted by a wave of homophobia in a town known for its inclusive and diverse LGBTQA+ community. Their romantic lives are just as uncertain. Jack, a gay former actor and fashion model, has failed at committed relationships due to his unsavory past – until he meets Reese Baxter, his partner’s handsome, closeted cousin. Jules juggles several polyamorous relationships due to major trust issues, until she’s drawn to an intriguing artist. However his jealousy of her bestie Jack is getting out of hand. Is the vandalism against their café from conservative hate groups, or is it a focused personal attack?

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About the Author: 

National bestselling author Meg Macy is a reader first and foremost. She loves great books in a wide variety of genres — being an introvert, she prefers pages to people. With her cat Mr. Whiskers nearby.

Meg previously wrote the “Shamelessly Adorable” Teddy Bear cozy mystery series for Kensington, several Christmas-themed romance novellas with rescue dogs and cats, and is also one-half of the writing team D.E. Ireland for the Agatha Award-nominated (2015, 2017) historical mysteries featuring Eliza Doolittle and Professor Henry Higgins.

She’s now turned her hand to writing M/M and M/F “quozy” romance — more spice, perhaps a dead body or intrigue, plus plenty of romance or a hint of it. Unique? Yep. Meg loves breaking the rules.

Visit her on Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, or her website at www.megmacy.com

A Devilish Element - Book Blitz!

From Madelynne Ellis comes a tale of gothic mischief, medicine, and murder, and discover the Wakefields, four spinster sisters and the brother who’s determined to see them matched. A DEVILISH ELEMENT by Madelynne Ellis is the first book in the Wooing the Wakefield’s series. Readers of a delicate disposition beware, spicy shenanigans, chemistry, and corpses abound in this tale of gothic Regency romance.

Remote Cedarton Castle is haunted. That’s what Eliza Wakefield's sisters say before she sets off to visit her recently married friend. The crumbling ruin is even more isolated and foreboding than expected. Its inhabitants, a small cluster of Lord Linfield’s closest allies. Moreover, all is not well with the Linfield’s marriage, leading Eliza to fear for her friend’s safety and her mind.

Mathematician Jem Whistler is a man caught in a trap. He’s in love with a woman he can’t have and owned by a lord who demands things he’d rather not give. Unexpectedly reunited with the woman who owns his heart, he struggles to keep his attachment hidden. When the threat from Cedarton’s white lady increases, Jem and Eliza must work together to uncover the true nature of the spectre haunting Cedarton’s shadowy halls. That’s if they can keep their hands off one another long enough to investigate

Amazon→ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CZP8Y8F3

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198328802-a-devilish-element

#madelynneellis #adevilishelement #HistoricalRomance, #RegencyRomance, #GothicRomance, #BisexualRomance, #HistoricalMystery #TBR #comingsoon #mustread #blitz

@indiepenpr

Abigail's Window - An Interview & Review

I'm happy to welcome Susan Lynn Solomon to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Today is the book birthday of ABIGAIL'S WINDOW, her paranormal romance.

Kathy: In ABIGAIL'S WINDOW we meet Kaitlyn Novacs who encounters a kindred spirit in the ghost of Abigail Bender. Do you believe in ghosts?

SLS: I do, and for a good reason. I’ve had several encounters with spirits over the years—the first when I was ten or eleven. That happened in Kew Garden Hill, the Queens, NY neighborhood where I grew up. On Main Street, not far from a church, was a reputedly haunted house—at least, that’s what the high school kids told us. One Saturday afternoon a few friends and I broke through a boarded-up window and climbed into that house. What happened there… Well, the haunting was far from “reputed”. Footsteps ran toward us, the sweater tied around my waist was grabbed and pulled off. Needless to say, I never went near that place again.

Since then I’ve had other encounters. Not long after I was married I joined a few friends for a Ouija Board session, thinking I might contact my grandmother. Instead of grandma, a somewhat nasty spirit came through. It followed me home, and one day while I cooked dinner it threw eggs at me. I used this experience in a scene in “Abigail’s Window”.

Kathy: What first drew you to paranormal romance?

SLS: While all of my stories focus relationships, I never wrote a romance and didn’t intend to. That is, until just before Valentine’s Day in 2004 the man who owned the firm in which I was in-house counsel asked me to write a very short romance. At the time he owned several bed and breakfasts in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and wanted to leave those stories him his guests’ rooms. One doesn’t refuse to do a favor for the man who signs her paycheck. Each of those houses, built in the early 19th century, had been around long enough for ghosts to settle in and get comfortable. One house in particular caught my attention… literally.

When I visited this house the housekeeper told me a ghost inhabited it. After the experiences I’d had, of course I believed her, and I was certain after I heard footsteps on the second floor (the house had no guests at the time, so no one was up there). When I went to investigate, I heard a disembodied sigh. Since I had been asked to write a romance, I decided to use that ghost as my female protagonist (the sigh had sounded female). By the way, that short romance, “Abigail Bender”, became my first published short story and won an honorable mention in a Writers Journal short romance competition.

I played with that story over the years, eventually expanding it into the novel that became “Abigail’s Window”, and the house in which I encountered the ghost I named Abigail is the setting for the novel. Of course, I’ve changed the name of the house—it has since been sold it to a family with children and I didn’t want those children to know they’re living with a ghost.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

SLS: A number of my published short stories are Historical Fiction, and in the new novel Abigail Bender, the ghost portrayed, lived during the time of the Underground Railroad and the Civil War, so there is much history in the novel. Other than that, in recent years my focus has been on mysteries, the genre I fell in love with when I was a child and my mother gave me a copy of Agatha Christie’s “Peril at End House”. I read that book in two days, and was hooked on the genre.

Kathy: Tell us about your series.

SLS: In 2015 I wrote my first mystery, a novel titled, “The Magic of Murder”. That novel was a finalist in the Readers Favorite and the M&M’s Chanticleer’s Mystery & Mayhem Novel Competitions. Because of this success the novel became the first story in the Emlyn Goode Mystery series that includes two additional novels, “Dead Again”, and “Writing is Murder”, and four novelettes. These are murder mysteries with a sense of humor.

I suppose these stories can also be considered a bit paranormal, because my narrator is Emlyn Goode, who at the age of 40 has just learned she’s a direct descendant of Sarah Goode, a woman hanged as a witch in Salem. Sarah’s diary that speaks of her life, Salem Town, and the people she lived among—as well as descriptions of herbs and chants she used in spells—has been passed down through Emlyn’s family. Blessed, and sometimes cursed by an overactive writer’s imagination, things Emlyn reads in this book point her in the direction of killers… and frequently into danger.

Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

SLS: If you’re speaking about a character other than one of mine, I have to say Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple is my favorite. An old woman with a sharp mind and a keen observer of human foibles, she can see a killer’s characteristics and motives in the lives of people in her small village.

In my novels I have two favorite characters. In the Emlyn Goode Mysteries it’s definitely Emlyn. She is so much like me it’s embarrassing. A writer blessed with an overactive imagination (or, as she says, cursed by it), she’s fearful, yet lunges headlong into the chase for a killer—especially when her romantic interest, Detective Roger Frey, is in danger—and only considers the consequences when the killer comes after her. Oh, and she’s frequently seems to be a bit of a wiseass (ask my sister whether that’s me)

In “Abigail’s Window” the character I love—and in certain respects resemble—is Kaitlyn Novacs, the story’s narrator. Fearful of the unknown, she needs to be pushed in the direction fate intends her to go. In her case it’s the ghost of Abigail that elbows her until she at last sees the life she’s to lead.

Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

SLS: Here again I have to separate the mystery series from the paranormal romance. As I mentioned earlier, “Abigail’s Window” was inspired by the man I worked for and the ghost in the B&B he used to own (I might mention that the ghost has apparently decided to move in with me). I wrote a short story called, “A Story is Born”, about how this happened. Published in an online journal, this story can be found at http://todaysbiostories.blogspot.com/2018/10/a-story-is-born.html

Aside from my love of mysteries, what pushed me to write “The Magic of Murder” was a dare. At the time I was a member of Just Buffalo Literary Center’s writers’ critique group, which was moderated by Gary Earl Roth, an Edgar Award winning writer and a good friend. One evening after a group meeting Gary, who knew of my love of the genre, asked why I hadn’t written a mystery. I told him I’d tried, but just couldn’t plot one. That’s when he dared me to try. I’ve never been smart enough to ignore a dare and so, Emlyn Goode, her friends and the trouble she causes in and around Niagara Falls—and frequently gets into—are Gary’s fault.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

SLS: In a sense, publishing my first Emlyn Goode novel wasn’t my decision. In 2015 I was actively seeking an agent to represent a very different novel. Dozens of query letters sent to agents, on a Sunday afternoon I received three emailed rejections. Three! On a Sunday! In a snit, I decided I’d show those agents, so I logged onto Query Track and found a list of independent publishers. I had just finished writing “The Magic of Murder”, which has a bit of a paranormal underpinning, and when I read what Solstice Publishing was looking for I decided the book would be right for them. I submitted it, and two weeks later was offered a contract.

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

SLS: Ah, there are so many. Certainly Agatha Christie. Aside from being the author that instilled in me a love of mysteries, her stories remind me of my mother. Then I’d invite Rex Stout. His Nero Wolfe mysteries were my father’s favorite and reading them reminds me of him. And I can’t forget Arthur Conan Doyle, whose intricate plots continue to inspire me. I’d also invite Elizabeth George, whose Inspector Linley novels and the exploration of the characters relationships have given me hours of joyful reading.

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

SLS: At the moment I’m reading Deborah Benjamin’s, “The Death of Perry Many Paws”, and thoroughly enjoying the book. Her narrator, Tamsen Mack, reminds me of Emlyn Goode in some respects, which means I identify with her. Also, her family is as… uh, odd. As is mine.

Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

SLS: Once upon a time, in my misbegotten younger days, I played folk music on my guitar at small clubs in Greenwich Village and wrote songs for, and was the rhythm guitarist in a rock band that performed all over the east coast. I still strum my guitar from time to time. These days, I most enjoy solving crossword puzzles. For me, these are like trying to solve intricate mysteries.

Other than this, cooking is my second favorite thing to do. During the winter I’ll search through my cookbook collection for a recipe that will take two days to make, and I’ll enjoy every minute of the time I spend on it.

Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

SLS: In my fridge I’ll always find onions, celery, and green peppers. In Cajun food, a cuisine I enjoy and love to explore, these are called the “trinity”. I also have frozen shrimp and often lobster. Among other recipes, I use these in what I call my “Witch’s Gumbo”.

Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

SLS: I’m currently working on two new books, one will be the next novel in the Emlyn Goode Mystery series, and the other focuses on a topic that has always fascinated me: past lives and reincarnation. Also, when the spirit moves me (or, perhaps, when Abigail Bender’s ghost puts an idea in my head) I’ll also write a short story… or two. A few weeks ago I was actually working on these two novels and a short Halloween story I was asked to write… If you look at the definition of “insanity” in Webster’s you see a picture of me.

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

SLS: What I love best about writing is the people I’ve met and the friends I’ve made over the years. I enjoy being at book fairs where and talking about writing and the stories I love to tell. And most of all, I love it when I hear that someone has gotten lost in one of my books or short stories and has been touched by it, or that one of my books allowed an escape from life for a few moments.

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Review

ABIGAIL'S WINDOW

By Susan Lynn Solomon

Dragged to a quaint inn on Niagara-on-the-Lake by her friends, Kaitlyn Novacs discovers she can't escape a haunting. Instead enjoying a fun girlfriends weekend, she meets and is captivated by the spirit of Abigail Bender. But as Abigail shows Katy her life and the romance she had with her true love, Katy slips further and further into an abyss as she tries to hide from her own feelings. Will Katy comes to grips with her own past and open herself up to love? Or will death claim her? 

ABIGAIL'S WINDOW is at once a charming historical love story and a cautionary tale. Kaitlyn has turned her back on love due to an incident in her past hinted at and finally revealed. Love is equated to life here and Katy's inability, or unwillingness, to love just may cost her her life. While I don't necessarily subscribe to that belief, it makes sense for Kaitlyn and her friends.

I enjoyed the ghostly aspect of the story and came to like wise cracking Kate, although I was put off by her friends and their attitudes at the start of the story. For me the most engaging part of the novel was the historical details surrounding the romance between Abigail and Will. Partially because I live in Western New York, I loved reading about the Underground Railroad and the stops which are quite familiar to me. I also found the Civil War sections compelling, although the amount of detail wasn't truly necessary to further the plot.

ABIGAIL'S WINDOW is a captivating story of love and the challenge of both giving and receiving it.

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Keep in contact with Susan Lynn Solomon through these links:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susanlynnsolomon

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susansolomon-8183b129

Website: http://www.susanlynnsolomon.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/susanlynnsolom@susanlynnsolom1 

Purchase link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1625268831

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Abigail's Window by Susan Lynn Solomon.

Dragged to a quaint inn on Niagara-on-the-Lake by her friends, Kaitlyn Novacs discovers she can't escape a haunting. Instead enjoying a fun girlfriends weekend, she meets and is captivated by the spirit of Abigail Bender. But as Abigail shows Katy her life and the romance she had with her true love, Katy slips further and further into an abyss as she tries to hide from her own feelings. Will Katy comes to grips with her own past and open herself up to love? Or will death claim her?

A Love Literary Style Interview & Giveaway

I'm happy to welcome Karin Gillespie to the blog today. Karin's newest novel, LOVE LITERARY STYLE, was released last week.

Kathy: In life as in LOVE LITERARY STYLE there seems to be a battle with those who write "literary novels" and those who write genre fiction. Why do you think that is?

KG: I think each side has something the other side wants. Literary writers very often don’t sell many books and make a living teaching and speaking at universities Genre writers may sell a lot of books but they don’t get much critical reception or respect. Very often they are labeled as hacks.


Kathy: Are you more s straight laced writer or one who would wear pink flamingo-patterned attire? Or somewhere in between?

KG: I’m a Southern gal and thus I’m no stranger to hot pink. However, unlike my character Laurie, I draw the line at flamingos on clothing.


Kathy: Aaron meets Laurie at a writers' colony. What exactly is a writers' colony and have you ever participated in one?

KG: A writers’ colony is a place where writers go to write with very little distractions. Very often they have to apply to these colonies and there’s little or no cost to the writer. I’ve not yet gone to a writers colony.


Kathy: What first drew you to romances?

KG: I think of LOVE LITERARY STYLE as a romantic comedy so it’s the comedic aspect that attracted me. Also I’m a huge fan of rom-com films so I wanted to write something snappy and fun, but also with some emotional heft.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

KG: I’d say that my primary genre is women’s fiction, but there’s usually some element of romance.


Kathy: Tell us about your book.

KG: LOVE LITERARY STYLE is about a stuffy literary writer who falls in love with a vivacious, self-published romance writer. Their union becomes rocky when she becomes more successful than he.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

KG: I like both of my protagonists naturally I’m probably more attracted Aaron because he lives so much in his head and has so much more to learn about the vagaries of love than Laurie.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for this story?

KG: Yes. It was partially based on an article I wrote for the New York Times called “Masters in Chicklit.” It was about my experiences as a genre writer in an MFA program and how I encountered some literary snobbery from a professor.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

KG: This is my seventh novel so I fear it’s become a habit I can’t shake.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

KG: Nora Ephron, Anne Tyler, Elizabeth Strout and Anne Lamott. All are funny wise female writers.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

KG: I just finished reading THE NIX, a novel from a talented debut author.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

KG: I enjoy wines, running, meditation, fine dining and of course, reading!


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

KG: Blackberries, whipped cream, Cheez Nips and chocolate. Notice how I put the sole healthy food first.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books?

KG: Yes. I’m working on a novel called the DEBUTANTE"S BIBLE. 


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

KG: Hearing from happy readers.

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Samantha - Review & Giveaway

Review

SAMANTHA

By Andrea Kane

SAMANTHA is the second in the Barrett Family series and tells the story of Drake Barrett's younger sister who we met in MY HEART'S DESIRE. Like that book this publication celebrates the 25th anniversary of SAMANTHA's first release and includes tidbits from the author about writing it all those years ago.

Samantha is now a young woman of 18 and is about to embark on her first London Season. Full of romantic ideals and lots of Gothic novels, Samantha is a young woman with exuberance who knows what she wants-and she wants Remington Worth, the Earl of Gresham. The Earl happens to be an undercover agent on a mission to discover why England's ships are disappearing. When Rem discovers that Samantha knows quite a bit about the shipping business, her brother after all owns Barrett Shipping, Rem becomes much more interested in her. How this interest will develop should be interesting as Samantha's chaperones include an elderly, deaf, and somewhat dotty aunt and her brother's valet who is more of an uncle to her and no stranger to danger and intrigue. 

SAMANTHA is a high spirited happy novel. Samantha is steadfast in her faith in her hero and shows a dogged determination to make him hers. However, she has no intention of merely allowing him to be her hero. She must also be his heroine and will do whatever it takes to save him as well. It's this balance of equality that makes me appreciate this novel even more. Samantha is not some simpering miss in need of a husband and protector. She is a woman with a good mind who is looking for a partner to love and share her live. Indeed, Samantha will save Rem just as he saves her.

I enjoyed seeing Drake and Alex years after their story ended; how they've changed and evolved, as well as remained the same, witnessing their relationship with each other as well as with Samantha, Rem, and Smitty. Real characters reside in this novel, and Kane is not afraid to show some of the gritty realism of the time,the character of  Cynthia, in particular emphasizes the dark side of Regency England.

SAMANTHA is a fun romantic read with plenty of adventure as well as humor that had me quickly turning its pages to devour the story.

Samantha by Andrea Kane on Tour October 2016

 

Book Details Genre: Historical Romance
Published by: Bonnie Meadow Publishing LLC
Publication Date: October 18th 2016
Number of Pages: ~418
Series: Book 2 in "Barrett Family Series" (You won't want to miss Book 1, My Heart’s Desire, either!)

 

 

 

Don't Miss Your Chance to Read Samantha! You can purchase your own copy at Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, AND add it to your reading list on Goodreads!

 

Synopsis:

Lady Samantha Barrett wondered if her imaginary hero would ever become real. Of course, he must be devastatingly handsome and just a bit dangerous. Now, her coach is filled with a collection of Gothic novels and her head with romantic notions as she eagerly leaves her brother’s country estate for her first London season. Still unsophisticated and too innocent by far, Samantha is ill-prepared for the hypocrisy of the ton or for the formidable stranger who crosses her path—a stranger she is sure must be the man of her dreams…
Remington Worth, the Earl of Gresham, is reputed to be anything but a hero. He is, however, intrigued by the fresh, young Lady Samantha. At sea, Remington had been a brilliant captain. To help save his country, he has accepted the Crown’s commission to become the most deadly and loyal covert agent, posing as a notorious womanizer and blackmailer. His latest mission is to investigate the mysterious disappearances of England’s prized merchant vessels. With an iron will, he will allow no one to get in his way or touch his heart—until Samantha.

 

Read an excerpt:

In walked the man of her dreams.
Samantha stared, transfixed, as the vision stepped directly from the pages of her latest gothic romance into the noisy, smoke-filled tavern.
He had arrived... her long-awaited hero.
It mattered not that he was a total stranger to her... nor that he patronized so seedy an establishment as this... nor that he pointedly displayed an ominous-looking knife handle from the top of one muddied Hessian boot. All that mattered was his towering height, his thick black hair, his uncompromising jaw, his piercing gray eyes. And that dimple... it was just where she'd always known it would be; in his left cheek. It flashed briefly as he nodded a greeting to someone, then vanished into the taut lines of his face.
Yes, it was irrefutably he... the hero of all her fantasies.
Breathless and eager, Samantha watched as he carelessly swung off his great coat, shaking rivulets of rain from it with swift, purposeful strokes. Simultaneously, he surveyed the room, his cool gaze taking in the shoddy furnishings and seedy occupants in one enveloping glance.
He moved forward, commanding and sure, coming closer to where Sammy sat... close enough so she could see the drops of water glistening in his raven-black hair, causing the ends to curl a bit at the nape. He seemed to be looking for someone.
Instead, he found her.
Dark brows raised, not with instantaneous, adoring surrender, but with decided, disapproving surprise.
Without hesitating, Sammy flashed him a smile, drinking in his splendid, chiseled features and exciting, leashed power. He was just as she had imagined him... no, better.
Her heart tightened in her chest as he approached her.
"What despicable cad deserted you here, little one?"
"Pardon me?" Sammy blinked in confusion.
With apparent disgust, her hero scanned the room. "You needn't feel ashamed. Just tell me what unscrupulous blackguard accompanied you to such a place, then abandoned you."
"Oh, nothing like that, sir." Sammy assured him brightly. "Actually, it was I who spotted this establishment from my carriage window and chose to stop here. Given the circumstances, it seemed the best place..."
"The best place... to what?" He looked censuring now, his gray eyes chilling, stormier than the skies that heralded tonight's downpour. "Is this your idea of an evening adventure? If so, you've either lost your way or your mind! Tell me, have you looked about you? I seriously doubt that you have, else you would have bolted. And, thankfully, it seems that these low-lifes have yet to spot you as prey. Had they done so, I assure you that your elegant gown would have long since been tossed up over your foolish, beautiful head!"
Sammy sucked in her breath. This wasn't at all the way she'd envisioned their first meeting. Following her hero's icy, pointed gaze, she surveyed the dimly lit tavern, trying to see what was upsetting him so. True, the tables were a bit shabby, even broken in spots, and the pungent smell of gin... mixed with some other, unrecognizable foul odor... permeated the room. And, she had to admit, the occupants of the tavern did need to shave... as well as to bathe. Still, they'd shown no signs of harming or even approaching her; so why was her hero hinting at violence?
"I don't know what you mean, sir," she confessed, bewildered. "Despite their rather coarse attire and unpolished manners, the gentlemen here have made no improper advances toward me. They are merely enjoying their spirits and each other's company."
The stranger gaped in utter disbelief.
"Gentlemen?" he managed. Leaning forward, he lowered his voice to a muffled hiss. "Sheltered innocent, what you see are pickpockets, highwaymen and drunks... and an occasional murderer or two." He straightened, emphatic and fierce. "This is Boydry's... as unsavory a pub as they come... not the bloody Clarendon Hotel!"
"Really?" Samantha was finding it very difficult to share the intensity of his tirade. She was too busy drowning in the hypnotic spell of his towering presence. And, after all, he was only trying to protect her... the foremost duty of a true hero.
"If such is the case, then why are you here?" she asked, half-tempted to stroke the hard, uncompromising line of his jaw. "You don't appear unsavory to me."
His dimple flickered in response. "Don't I? That is only because you don't know me."
"No... but I'd like to."
He blinked. "You'd like to..."
"Oh yes. Don't you see?" Sammy leaned forward, making an animated sweep with her hands. "It's as if Mrs. Radcliffe had penned it; a young woman alone... darkness... danger." A pause. "Of course I would have preferred a castle turret to a tavern..." she gave a philosophical shrug, "... nevertheless, you've arrived... and you're exactly as I pictured you."
"You have lost your mind," he muttered.

 

Author Bio:

Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-seven novels, including thirteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles.
With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.
Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, The Last Duke, and Wishes in the Wind.
With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.
Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.

Connect With Ms. Kane on Facebook, Twitter, & her website.

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Take a minute to stop by some of the other blogs in the tour! They have exciting features, reviews, and special giveaways!  

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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Samantha by Andrea Kane. This book is the second in the Barrett Family series and tells the story of Drake Barrett's younger sister who we met in My Heart's Desire. Like that book this publication celebrates the 25th anniversary of Samantha's first release and includes tidbits from the author about writing it all those years ago.

Samantha is now a young woman of 18 and is about to embark on her first London Season. Full of romantic ideals and lots of Gothic novels, Samantha is a young woman with exuberance who knows what she wants-and she wants Remington Worth, the Earl of Gresham. The Earl happens to be an undercover agent on a mission to discover why England's ships are disappearing. When Rem discovers that Samantha knows quite a bit about the shipping business, her brother after all owns Barrett Shipping, Rem becomes much more interested in her. How this interest will develop should be interesting as Samantha's chaperones include an elderly, deaf, and somewhat dotty aunt and her brother's valet who is more of an uncle to her and no stranger to danger and intrigue.

My Heart's Desire Interview, Review, and Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Andrea Kane to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Andrea writes psychological thrillers and historical romantic suspense. This year is the 25th anniversary of two of her Regency classics.

Kathy: This tour celebrates the 25th Anniversary edition of My Heart's Desire. How has your life as a writer changed since the first publication?

AK: There’s been an enormity of change in my writing world since the 1991 publication of My Heart’s Desire. The biggest change, of course, is the onset and growth of the Internet. I no longer have to carry around baby naming books (which caused my entire neighborhood to think I was perpetually pregnant.) in order to find the perfect names for my characters. I no longer have to buy obscure out-of-print reference books and wait months for them to arrive in order to continue telling my story. I can look up details at the drop of a hat, determine their authenticity, and implement them. I can email quick questions to my consultants and get answers ASAP, rather than playing phone tag. The list goes on and on. The things that never change are the heart and soul I put into each book, the human element that bring my characters to life, and the mental energy that conjures up plot. So the process changed, but the creation stayed the same.


Kathy: What made you decide to add "new author content"?

AK: After 25 years of my devoted readers’ enjoying Alex’s and Drake’s story, I wanted to give something back by making this anniversary edition special. So I added a piece of myself to the equation. I shared behind-the-scenes stories of the writing of My Heart’s Desire, together with some fun antics that I hope you’ll all grin over!


Kathy: Historical romances require an extra special brand of research. What's your favorite method to research this time period?

AK: My very favorite research method was my trip to England, where I visited all the places my characters lived in, loved in, and traveled to. There’s nothing like the wonder of firsthand experience, and some of the natural beauty of London and the surrounding shires have stayed the same, as have the historical wonders. I truly reveled in it.


Kathy: What first drew you to romances?

AK: I’ve read romances since I can remember. I loved the beauty, the emotion, and most of all, the happily-ever-after. Transitioning into writing those kinds of stories (with a mix of my other love—mystery suspense) was a natural step, and I’ve never stopped feeling blessed for having that chance.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

AK: I’m currently writing suspense thrillers, and I’m totally into doing so. I get to write the same strong characters, the same complex plots, just with more emphasis on the suspense and less on the romance. But relationships are and will always be a huge part of my novels, no matter what those relationships are or what genre I write in.


Kathy: Tell us about your book.

AK: As the cover of My Heart’s Desire states: “Never were there two more unlikely people to fall in love”. Lady Alexandria Cassel stows away on a merchant ship to seek adventure and to escape the boredom and expectations of her first London Season. And Drake Barrett, the Duke of Allonshire, just happens to be the captain of that ship as he valiantly attempts to escape the hypocrisy of that very same aristocratic world. An electric meeting. A combustible courtship. A battle at sea. A deserted island where they’re stranded together. And a threat on their lives that could end it all. Alex and Drake go through all that and more as they find something in each other they never expected. Oh, and you’ll also meet Drake’s sister, Samantha, who has a book of her own being re-released with new author material in October.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

AK: I could never choose a favorite character. I love them all (or hate them!), each for different reasons. If I didn’t, I couldn’t put my heart into writing them.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for this story?

AK: I’d read so many stories set in Regency England with traditional heroines. I had the persistent desire to write an independent hellion with a mind of her own and a plan to match it. And I had a pretty good idea of how she’d meet her match—one who turned out to be the love of her life.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

AK: I’ve been telling stories in my head since I was two, and reading since I was three. I’ve been writing since I could hold a pencil. I always dreamed of being a published author. I did everything I could to make it happen. Again, I feel very blessed that my dream came true (and continues to!).


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

AK: Daphne du Maurier, Robert Ludlum, Jane Austen, and Dorothy Parker.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

AK: Nora Roberts’ novel The Obsession.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

AK: I love crossword puzzles and Sudoku. Actually, I love word games in general. I also love old movies, especially watching them with my family. I’m a diehard New York Yankees fan, and I watch every one of their games, win or lose. Most of all, I play with my Pomeranian, Mischief, who demands every second of my time. It’s like having a toddler all over again. I absolutely adore him (even if he does try his hardest to keep me from writing)!!


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

AK: Ice cream, ice cream, ice cream, and ice cream.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books?

AK: My first excitement will be in October with the re-release of Samantha, the sequel to My Heart’s Desire. Sammy made a huge splash in Alex’s and Drake’s book, and she’s off to live her own unique and romantic adventures. Simultaneously, I’m continuing to write my suspense thriller Forensic Instincts series, so I’m one busy writer!


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

AK: Doing what I love and getting the wonderful reactions from my readers. I’m so grateful for both those gifts.

 ****************************************************************************

Review

MY HEART'S DESIRE by Andrea Kane 

Lady Alexandria Cassel scorns the ton and all it stands for so she decides to leave England just before her first Season and visit her father who is working in Canada. Perhaps there Alex will be free to find her heart's desire. However, she continues her unconventional plan in a most unconventional manner. Taking no extra clothing, let alone a servant, Alex pens a hasty note to her mother, and stows aboard a Canadian bound ship. What she doesn't realize is that Captain Drake Barrett of said ship happens to be Lord Cairnham, one of the most elite members of the ton, who also holds that society in disdain.

As Duke keeps his identity quiet, Alex charms the rest of the men and slowly begins to melt Duke's icy heart. A happy ending however will be made more difficult by secrets, as well as Duke's treacherous younger brother, Alex's cold father, an upcoming war, and a ship caught in the crosshairs. 

Although I primarily read cozy mysteries now, when MY HEART'S DESIRE was first published I was mainly reading romances. I'm actually surprised I had not read this book as I love Regencies as much as paranormal romances (my mainstay 25 years ago). A lot has changed since this book was first written, but I am pleased to stay this novel has stood the test of time. MY HEART'S DESIRE is a fun read with characters you love, danger, and laughs too.

MY HEART'S DESIRE is an exciting trip back in time. Fraught with danger and desire our couple face adversity and each other with determination and love. The writing is crisp and clean, the is plot interesting, and the characters are well developed. MY HEART'S DESIRE is a fun read that reminds me why I enjoy reading romance novels.

 ****************************************************************************

My Heart’s Desire by Andrea Kane on Tour September 2016

Book Details Genre: Historical Romance Published by: Bonnie Meadow Publishing LLC Publication Date: September 20, 2016 Number of Pages: ~ 402 Series: Book 1 in "Barrett Family Series&quot Purchase My Heart’s Desire at: Amazon Barnes & Noble or Add it to your reading list on: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Lady Alexandria Cassel scorned London's frivolous social whirl, seeking adventure as a stowaway aboard a merchant ship. Drake Barrett was the vessel's powerful captain—and a cynical duke who disdained a noble's shallow life. At sea he revealed neither his origins nor his wealth, and to Alexandria he was simply a man who made her cool reserve fly with the winds… whose desire for her was as wild as the ocean they sailed.
Caught in the crossfire of war, they were shipwrecked on an idyllic island, where they tasted perfect passion… and tenderness. But Drake dreaded the day of their rescue—when his love would discover that the virile man she adored was at the pinnacle of the aristocracy she despised. Hardly did they suspect the base treachery that would soon threaten them… and the dangers each would brave to join forever their hearts and lives!

Read an excerpt:

"WHAT DID YOU DO WITH MY CLOTHES?"
No storm could be as fierce as the one that raged in Alexandria’s flashing eyes as she faced Drake across the cabin. Her expression was murderous, her small hands clenched at her sides, her tone lethal.
Drake closed the door behind him with a firm click. “By ‘your clothes’ I presume you mean that dusty gown and shredded chemise you discarded on my cabin floor?” He leaned nonchalantly against the wall, regarding her with amusement.
Alex was too angry to be shocked at his casual mention of her undergarment. “You know damned well what clothes I mean!”
“Now, now … such language, my lady. I am truly shocked.”
She looked as though she might strike him.
“I demand that you return my things at once!”
His brows went up. “You demand? Careful, princess, your snobbish airs are showing. Remember, on this ship the only one who demands is me.” He crossed the room, ignoring her as if she were no more than an annoying child.
She stepped in front of him, blocking his way.
“Did you want something, my lady?” He paused, studying her livid expression. She was as transparent as glass, her anger and exasperation clearly evident on her beautiful face.
Drake grinned. “Your clothes are no longer with us.”
The color in her face deepened. “What?”
“They were torn from your adventure.”
“Liar!” she shot back. “There was no reason for you to discard them … at least not for the reason you just gave.”
Her accusing tone made him chuckle. “You are quite correct, princess. The real reason is that I cannot have you parading around in your finery. My men are already lusting after you quite openly. We wouldn’t want to further intoxicate their senses, now would we?”
“The only one on this ship who has treated me with any disrespect is you!” she retorted.
“Then be grateful that I have limited you to men’s attire. Perhaps you will be safe from my lecherous advances.”
Drake moved away, and Alex turned her back as he took off his shirt and tossed it carelessly onto the chair. Tossing his breeches next to his shirt, he put an end to her torment by climbing into his berth.
The cabin was silent. Drake could sense Alex’s presence nearby, and he knew instinctively that she was not in bed.
“Princess?”
He heard her jump. “What is it?”
He cleared his throat. “Is there some problem?”
“No … yes …” She paused. “May I use your basin and some water to wash the dirt from my face?”
Drake smiled in the darkness. “Go right ahead. And, princess … if you can find your way around in the dark, help yourself to one of my shirts. They are clean and more than large enough to protect your modesty.”
Again, silence. Then, “Thank you, Captain.”
Her bare feet padded across the room. Drake listened to her opening the heavy chest, taking out one of his shirts, and slipping it on. Splashing sounds told him she was washing, followed by her soft footsteps as she returned to her cot. Then a thud and a cry of pain.
Drake was out of bed in an instant, moving toward the sound of her choked cry.
“Alexandria? What is it?”
“I walked into the cot,” she whimpered.
“Are you badly hurt?”
In truth she was not. It had been a sudden painful blow, yet already the pain was subsiding to a dull throb. But it was more than she could withstand after her emotionally taxing day. Hot tears filled her eyes, spilled down her cheeks. Try though she would, she could not control the sobs that shook her.
“I’m sorry,” she gasped. “I never cry … and it is not that bad a bruise … I just can’t …” She shook her head helplessly, covering her eyes with trembling hands.
There was no forethought. Drake reacted instantly, pulling her into his arms.
“Shhh,” he soothed, pressing her head against his chest. He felt her tears drenching his bare skin, her narrow shoulders shaking. “It’s all right, sweetheart … don’t cry,” he murmured, raising her chin with his forefinger, wishing he could see her face. He stroked his other hand down her back, pressing her closer to him.
They became aware of each other at the same moment. He was totally naked. She was clad only in a thin white shirt. She needed comfort. He needed more.

 

Author Bio:

Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-seven novels, including thirteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles.
With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.
Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, The Last Duke, and Wishes in the Wind.
With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.
Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.

Connect With Ms. Kane on Facebook, Twitter, or her website.

 

Tour Host Participants:

Giveaway

This is a rafflecopter giveaway hosted by Providence Book Promotions for Andrea Kane. There will be 5 US winners of one (1) eBook copy of My Heart’s Desire by Andrea Kane. The giveaway begins on August 31st and runs through September 30th, 2016.

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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading My Heart's Desire by Andrea Kane. This book is actually the 25th anniversary edition of the Regency Classic.

Lady Alexandria Cassel scorns the ton and all it stands for so she decides to leave England just before her first Season and visit her father who is working in Canada. Perhaps there Alex will be free to find her heart's desire. However, she continues her unconventional plan in a most unconventional manner. Taking no extra clothing, let alone a servant, Alex pens a hasty note to her mother, and stows aboard a Canadian bound ship. What she doesn't realize is that Captain Drake Barrett of said ship happens to be Lord Cairnham, one of the most elite members of the ton, who also holds that society in disdain.

As Duke keeps his identity quiet, Alex charms the rest of the men and slowly begins to melt Duke's icy heart. A happy ending however will be made more difficult by secrets, as well as Duke's treacherous younger brother, Alex's cold father, an upcoming war, and a ship caught in the crosshairs.

Interview on the Menu

I'm pleased to welcome Zanna Mackenzie to the blog today. Murder on the Menu is the first of her Celebrity Mystery Books.

Kathy: Lizzie’s new boss is celebrity chef Armand. Do you enjoy following celebrity chefs? Do you have a favorite?

ZM: I do like cookery programs, yes. I particularly like it when the cooking element is combined with travel and learning about foods and cultures in countries all over the world. The UK cooking duo The Hairy Bikers have done some great series where they travel around Europe, Asia and America on their motorbikes, cooking, eating and seeing the sights. I also like Hugh Fearnley Hittingstall of River Cottage fame.


Kathy: Do you enjoy cooking yourself?

ZM: I like baking cakes and I make my own granola and gluten free muffins but beyond that I’m afraid I’m not very good at cooking, my husband is much better! I tend to get distracted with ideas for plots in my books and end up scribbling down notes and forgetting about the food, so things can be a little burnt at times…

Kathy: Murder on the Menu is described as a "romantic comedy culinary mystery". Why did you choose to combine the genres?

ZM: I started off writing in the romantic comedy genre with a slight mystery subplot and found that I loved the mystery angle in developing a story, so decided to add more mystery into my next books, which is when I started the Amber Reed Mystery series and then the Celebrity Mystery series. With Murder On The Menu I loved the idea of a having a famous and successful chef with a fancy restaurant in the glorious Lake District and wanted to balance that out with the main character of Lizzie at the other end of the spectrum. She’s struggling to turn her life around after leaving London, her boyfriend and her high-powered career behind to live on a farm she’s inherited, working as a waitress to make ends meet and is on a mission to be able to bake like her aunt used to. The book simply grew from there.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

ZM: I love a good mystery but don’t like to read anything scary, nasty or violent. I used to watch the Mystery Woman films on TV where a book shop owner gets drawn into sleuthing and solving various mysteries and decided I wanted to read and write stories like those with some romance, humor and intrigue.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

ZM: Yes, my first few books (The Love Programme, How Do You Spell Love? If You Only Knew) are more contemporary romantic comedies in style. These days though, my books are all very much in the romantic comedy cozy mystery genre.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

ZM: My Amber Reed Mystery series follows Amber who starts out making up the horoscopes for a local newspaper and ends up sleuthing in the world of the rich and famous. She meets a special agent called Charlie, they become romantically involved and the mysteries in terms of various crimes to solve as well as their roller-coaster on-again off-again love life unfolds over the series. There’s currently 4 books and a novella in this series and I’m writing the fifth book at the moment.

My Celebrity Mystery series kicks off with Murder On The Menu where Lizzie’s city life falls apart and she ends up living in the wilds of Cumbria and waitressing to make ends meet. Her celebrity chef boss is murdered and she’s on the list of suspects and teams up with her gorgeous new neighbor Jack to clear her name. There are 2 books and a novella in this series and they follow Lizzie and Jack’s relationship and their crime-fighting adventures.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

ZM: It’s probably Amber from the Amber Reed Mysteries. She makes me laugh and is great fun to write. I feel like she’s a friend now and love sending her off to solve a new case in each of the books. Amber’s changing a little with each novel and I’m thoroughly enjoying the journey she’s on.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

ZM: No, I don’t think I do. My ideas for plots, settings and characters come from all over the place. Some are snippets of concepts from newspaper articles, TV programs, films, even other books. Most of the time though, the ideas spring from the characters themselves. That’s the joy of writing in a series, you get to know your characters so well that it’s almost as though they’re pushing ideas into your head!


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

ZM: My husband! My journey to being published is a long story over several years but it was my husband who coaxed me to actually send off two of my completed manuscripts to publishers. I was too scared to do it! He encouraged me and I sent one book to a UK publisher and a different book to a US publisher. I told myself to forget about them because there was no way I’d get offered contracts. Two weeks later, I had a contract offer from the US publisher on that book and a week after that, I had a contract offer from the UK publisher on the other book. I was absolutely stunned and completely delighted!


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

ZM: Hmm… tough question. Let me see… probably the Chick Lit Queen Jill Mansell because she was one of the first authors where I read all of her books as soon as I discovered her. She inspired me to start writing myself. Next, probably Carole Matthews, for a similar reason. Thirdly, the romance author Katie Fforde. When I was starting out on my writing journey, I joined the Romantic Novelist’s Association and was in a forum. Back then she was (and still is) a top-selling author, yet she took the time to help and encourage those taking their first steps on the writing ladder. She really spurred me on with my writing goals. Finally, but by no means least, the American author Caroline Fardig. We have a very similar writing style and write series in the same genre (she writes the Lizzie Hart Mysteries and the Java Jive Mysteries) and I love and read all of her books. We’ve become friends via social media and emails but as she lives in the USA and I’m in the UK, we have never actually met so it would be great to invite her to my dinner party.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

ZM: I read across a few genres but one thing a book definitely needs to have for me to read it is romance woven into the plot. I read cozy mysteries, chick lit, contemporary romance and romantic suspense. I’m currently in a British romantic comedy phase and am reading the fifth book in Jenny Oliver’s Cherry Pie Island series.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

ZM: I love to pull on wellington boots and get out to do some gardening. We have a small garden but I’ve crammed in a tiny greenhouse to grow some tomatoes and also have a few raised beds for lettuces, cucumbers and beans. We have four dogs which keeps us busy looking after and walking them. Fortunately, I enjoy lots of walks in the countryside!


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

ZM: The fridge is stocked with fruits and salad stuff right now as we’ve just had a rare spell of hot weather in the UK – but now it’s been raining for three days so I don’t fancy salad! Sorry, right, down to specifics, four items to select to tell you about – chocolate mousse, sweet potatoes, some salmon fillets, and sweet fire beetroot.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

ZM: Yes, I’m working on book 5 in the Amber Reed Mystery series which is set at a summer music festival. I also have a new series coming out which will be three standalone mysteries with some comedy and romance woven in, but they will be linked as a trilogy via the fact each book will focus on the story and amateur sleuthing of one of three sisters.


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

ZM: Getting to create characters, settings and plots – it’s tremendous fun. I also love that I get to work from home – no commute, I get to keep an eye on our dogs, spend more time with my husband (who also works from home part of the week as he’s a self-employed acupuncturist and sports therapist) and I have the luxury of setting up my laptop wherever I like indoors or out, depending on the time of year and the weather.

A Romantic Comedy Interview & Giveaway

I'd like to welcome D.E. Haggerty to the blog today.

Kathy: Molly's Misadventures is described as a romantic comedy. I've heard of movies described as such, how does a novel fit into this genre?

DEH: The idea is to have a romance novel that – in addition to being a sweet love story – makes you snort laugh while reading it. And if you’re in public and can’t hold in that snort laugh? Well, then my work here is done.


Kathy: Molly has what could be described as a "worst date ever". Was this date based on personal experience?

DEH: Funny enough, it was based on an idea from my husband. We were walking in the mall and the security alarms in a store went off. He started a “what if” scenario and I ran with it.


Kathy: What first drew you to romances?

DEH: To be perfectly honest, my muse just tells me where to go and I blindly follow her. She gives me great ideas and I’m not going to anger her by ignoring any ideas she chooses to bless me with.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

DEH: Although all my novels involve romance to some degree or another, Molly’s Misadventures is my first book that is strictly romance. My previous works always involved a mystery to solve or were more in the suspense category.


Kathy: Tell us about your books.

DEH: I started my published writing career with Unforeseen Consequences, a novel about four women in the military together who are hiding a big secret. I was in the Army myself and wanted to try and portray what it’s like for women in the military. Buries Appearances, my second novel, is a historical mystery very loosely based upon my father-in-law’s family history. After that I decided to write a novel about what would make a woman walk away from her so-called perfect life. Life Discarded was the result of that idea. My friend convinced me to try chick-lit and I ended up writing three cozy mysteries in my Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives series.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

DEH: Oh gosh, that’s like trying to pick a favorite child! I think my favorite character is always the current heroine I’m writing. I mostly write in first person so I often start to think and act like my characters.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

DEH: This book was inspired by a friend’s Facebook post. She was newly separated from her husband and going out on her first date in more than a decade. Her post was hilarious! I started thinking about a heroine who was recently divorced and needed a change in her life. Before I knew it, the bones of Molly’s Misadventures were scratched into a new journal and I was on my way!


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

DEH: I’ve always been writing something. At some point in my legal career, I took a break and wrote my first novel Unforeseen Consequences. I briefly looked for an agent, but soon enough, I was back at the law. When I kept complaining about my career, my husband suggested I self-publish. I may have pushed him out of the way as I ran to the attic to find my manuscript.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

DEH: Stephen King. My husband bought his book, On Writing, for me when I was thinking about taking my writing seriously and it was such an inspiration.

Antony Beever. Although he’s more of a historian than writer, I am a totally history geek (thus the degree in history) and would love to pick his brain.

Amitov Ghosh. Not only is he a great author, but he’s an activist with well-formed opinions on international politics. And I’m a bit obsessed with Indian writers.

Khaled Hosseini. Of course he’s a writer, but he has such an interesting life story as well. I’d love to pick his brain.

Leo Tolstoy. Famous Russian author. Need I say more?


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

DEH: I read at least a book a day – mostly for reviews for other authors. I also normally have a history book or autobiography I’m working on at the same time. At the moment I’m reading The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport. I have a degree in history and am totally obsessed with Russian (pre-Soviet Union) history.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

DEH: Besides reading books like they are going out of style? Yeah, I’m a total book worm like that. I also like to play tennis, run, watch movies, and travel the world.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

DEH: Beer, wine, cheese, and bread. Oh wait, that makes it sound like we never have food in the house. Um, that’s kind of right though.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

DEH: Some readers have bugged me to write more books in my Gray-Haired Knitting Detectives series, but I’m happy to leave the crazy old codgers alone for now. I’m not sure about doing another series. I did like writing the series and – bonus – it was great for sales! Who knows? I never meant to write a series in the first place.


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

DEH: That’s easy! I love the freedom of writing. I can write anywhere at any time. This is totally awesome when you have a pilot husband and pilot friends with their weird schedules and you need to follow your husband to strange lands for the best career opportunities.

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A Good Kind of Interview & Giveaway

I'd like to welcome Ellie Ashe to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Ellie writes the Trouble in Twin Rivers Mystery series. A Good Kind of Trouble, the first book in the series, was released in May.

Kathy: A Good Kind of Trouble is described as a romantic mystery. How does romance enhance mysteries? Are there drawbacks?

EA: Thank you so much for inviting me to your blog! Romance enhances everything! But in a mystery, I think it adds both tension and conflict. Navigating emotions, unraveling what makes a person attracted to someone else, and what makes that other person tick—those are just other mysteries to solve. And it can raise the stakes, too, if the person you care about is in peril.


Kathy: Lindsey Fox and Ben Gillespie once had a bad date of "epic proportions". Have you ever had a horrendously bad date?

EA: I have had dates that were bad, but none were horrendously bad. Or at least I’ve blocked those from my memory. I get all my bad-date inspiration for my books from my best friend who has some of the best (or maybe the worst) stories about bad dates. If you ever read about a bad date in one of my books, just know that it was inspired by a woman in California, who is both eternally optimistic and incredibly unlucky.


Kathy: What first drew you to mysteries?

EA: Like many mystery writers, I’ve been drawn to this genre since my first Nancy Drew book. I read all of those books that I could get my hands on, plus the Trixie Belden mysteries and even the Hardy Boys, if I was out of girl detectives. I eventually graduated to Agatha Christie and have never looked back.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

I write cozy mysteries, the Miranda Vaughn Mysteries, for Gemma Halliday Publishing. I think anything I write will probably have an element of mystery to it. It’s my first love.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

EA: The Trouble in Twin Rivers series revolves around the Fields Law Group, where Ben Gillespie goes to work in A Good Kind of Trouble. Each of the books can be read as a standalone novel and I have five planned for the series. The second book in the series involves his coworker, Fiona Larkin, a busy single mother and criminal defense attorney, and federal agent Matt Pritchard, and a murder at an exclusive resort.

The Miranda Vaughn Mysteries, published by Gemma Halliday Publishing, is about a financial analyst who was falsely accused of fraud. She was found not guilty, but that doesn’t erase the scandal. In the first book, Chasing the Dollar, Miranda sets out to find who set her up—an adventure that takes her to Macau and Belize, and into the arms of a FBI agent who has his own agenda. The second book, Dropping the Dime, was released in April, and a third book is planned for release before the end of this year.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

EA: I could never choose between Ben and Lindsey! I love them both! Ben is cynical and bitter about his job as a lawyer, because it’s not the right fit for him. He keeps getting praised for doing a good job, which makes him feel even worse. And Lindsey loves her job as a reporter, and is desperate to hang on to it because she identifies so closely with her profession. I am a big believer in, as Lindsey says, finding a job that you love because you spend so much of your day at your job, and so many years of your life working.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

EA: A funny title popped into my head while I was trying to fall asleep. Immediately, I could imagine the first scene, then the second scene—and then I had to get up to write the first couple chapters. Then I didn't even keep the title, which was Trust Me, I’m a Lawyer.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

EA: A Good Kind of Trouble was the first book that I wrote that I felt was finally ready to be shown to other people. But I have been writing for many years, through a couple different careers, and always planned to submit a book for publication. I can’t imagine not telling stories, in one form or another.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

EA: This is a tough question because there are so many writers I could choose. Since I only have service for four guests, I would invite: 1) Megan Abbott, because I love how she twists the expected tropes in crime and noir into new shapes; 2) Laura Lippman, because she inspires me every time I pick up one of her books; 3) Carl Hiaasen, because he would keep us laughing; and, 4) Agatha Christie, because she’s Agatha Christie.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

EA: I usually switch between fiction and nonfiction and just finished the latest Danger Cove mystery—Deadly Dye and a Soy Chai, by Traci Andrighetti. Now I’m starting a nonfiction book called The Setup: A True Story of Dirty Cops, Soccer Moms, and Reality TV, by Pete Crooks. You may remember the story from an episode of This American Life called “The Incredible Case of the P.I. Moms.” (http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/447/the-incredible-case-of-the-pi-moms)


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

EA: I am an indoorsy kind of girl—reading, writing, knitting, watching movies, baking. This is why winter is my favorite season. When forced outdoors, I do like hiking and I always have my camera with me because I love photography.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

EA: Since I just had to clean out my pantry, I can tell you that I hoard enchilada sauce, canned Marzano tomatoes, and black beans. I guess I like being able to make enchiladas on short notice. And I always have some experimental flavor of cheese in my fridge. Right now, that’s a horseradish cheddar.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

EA: Yes, a second book in the Trouble in Twin Rivers series will be out in 2016, probably in the summer. I have a couple other books under contract that have to be finished first, but then I can’t wait to find out what trouble Matt and Fiona get into.


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

EA: Storytelling is such a part of human nature. It’s how we communicate with each other, even when we don’t think that’s what we’re doing. But there are little stories everywhere—in songs, commercials, conversations. I find it so interesting how we’re wired to tell and listen to stories, and I am always honored to be able to carry on that tradition, in my own little way.


Kathy: Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions.

EA: Thank you for having me! This was a lot of fun!



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One lucky commenter will receive an e-book of A Good Kind of Trouble. Simply leave a comment no later than 11:59 pm EDT Wednesday, August 12, 2015 telling us about a horrendously bad date you've had..or the best one! Be sure to leave an e-mail address so that I may contact you should you win!