Coming soon!

After my publisher, Turquoise Morning Press, closed its doors, I found a new home for my books. I published the series romance novels through Amazon's CreateSpace. But my romantic suspense, REBUILD MY WORLD, found a home at Salt Run Publishing, LLC, Since it's part of my Mustang Sally trilogy, it needed better exposure. This time around, the novel has added bonus material, a short story sequel of sorts called Veiled Threat. If you read TMP's anthology The Wedding Day Collection (now out of print), you may remember Veiled Threat. Both have been reedited and revised.

Soon REBUILD MY WORLD with its bonus VEILED THREAT will be available. I'll keep you posted. I am super excited to be working with the folks at Salt Run Publishing! 

REMEMBER MY LOVE

Here's a bonus for readers of my books, especially the ones set in fictional Drake Springs, Florida. In Reclaim My Life, Sam Drake, brother to the hero, had just broken up with Victoria Draper. Later, in Return to Drake Springs, the heroine helps her mother cater their wedding at Drake Oaks. What happened to reunite Sam and Victoria?

The answer is in the short story (no longer in print, it originally appeared in the anthology All Bets Are On!) Remember My Love. If you missed this story and are curious about what happened to the characters from the three Mustang Sally Books (Restore My Heart, Reclaim My Life, and Rebuild My World), you're in luck.

Here is the story in its entirety. Enjoy!

REMEMBER MY LOVE
Cheryl Norman

Samuel Drake moved toward the entrance to Churchill Downs, feeling more a part of an Easter parade than a sporting event. Suddenly he froze and stared at the woman ahead of him, a vision in pastel blue. A bit of blond hair—with unusual reddish striping he’d seen on only one woman, although she had called it highlighting— peeked out from beneath the hat that matched her dress. If only she would turn and show her face. The familiar figure couldn’t be Victoria, could it?

His brother Wilson bumped his back. “What’s the holdup, Sam?”

Samuel nodded toward the woman just as she turned and showed her profile. “I thought I saw someone I know—” He gasped. It was her! “Victoria Draper.”

“Your ex?” Wilson crowded beside him and followed his gaze. “Where?”

“And why would she be here?”

“Duh.” Sofia, Wilson’s Louisville-native wife, chuckled behind them. “Same reason everyone is here—to see the Kentucky Derby.”

Wilson held hands with his very pregnant wife. “I don’t think Sam and Victoria parted on the best of terms.” An understatement, indeed.

Sofia eyes twinkled with mischief. “Introduce us, Sam.”

He mentally rehearsed his approach. But he needn’t bother. His gregarious brother saved him the trouble and called out, “Victoria!”

She turned, facing them, and smiled at Wilson. “Sheriff Drake.” Her smile tightened almost into a grimace. “Samuel. This is a surprise.”

Sofia reached past Samuel, offering her hand. “I’m Fia Drake.”

“Victoria Draper.” She shook Sofia’s hand. “So you’re here to see the big race, too?”

Sofia moved forward and walked beside Victoria. “This is Sam’s first Kentucky Derby. Mom lives here, and I helped fill her house with guests this week.”

Victoria winced. “Poor Mom.”

“Oh, on the contrary. She loves company.”

“Sofia’s mother is a most hospitable hostess and fabulous cook, too,” Samuel said, but Victoria avoided his gaze. “She graciously gave me her Derby ticket.”

“How generous.” She directed her smile at Sofia.

Sofia gave a dismissive wave. “Mom doesn’t enjoy the derby since Dad died. My brother’s wife is way pregnant and the last thing she wanted was to dress up and face this crowd. He won’t leave her side.”

Victoria gestured toward Sofia’s abdomen. “You appear ‘way pregnant,’ too, and Wil dragged you here.”

“Hey, this was her idea, darlin’.”

Samuel tried again to capture Victoria’s attention. “Perhaps we’ll see you in the clubhouse.”

She finally met his gaze, and her smile slipped. “Perhaps.” The chill in her voice said otherwise.

Samuel didn’t blame her. Three years ago he had dumped her, with appalling behavior. Victoria fled town before he’d had the good sense to make amends, and he had suffered since. Never one to be romantic, Samuel had been frightened by the truth. He’d chased away the only woman he loved. Could fate be handing him a second chance? Or was he three years too late?

Victoria gave a finger wave. “Nice meeting you, Fia. I need to catch up with my friend.”

Friend? Or lover? Samuel’s gut twisted with jealousy. His gaze stayed glued to her bonnet as she moved toward the steps. She plowed through the crowd as though determined to escape. He must not lose sight of her. Friend or no friend, he had to talk to her alone.

Wilson nudged him. “You gonna let her get away?”

“Are you suggesting I chase after her?”

Wilson snorted. “If it were Fia, I’d already be shoving and elbowing my way through this mob.”

*

Victoria’s stomach fluttered with nerves and her hands shook. After all this time, Samuel still had the power to rattle her composure. He’d hardly changed. He was still distinguished and oozed Southern blueblood, although now his reddish hair grayed more at the temples. But it was his piercing green eyes that stole her breath. She clung to the memory of their last meeting. He’d been a pompous, intellectual snob. How could she find such characteristics appealing?

She’d almost gotten over him. Out of sight, out of mind. Seeing him again resurrected too many memories. Fate could be cruel. She hurried to catch Jonie, her friend who had persuaded her to attend the Kentucky Derby, shoving her nemesis from her mind.

A firm grip on her elbow slowed her. “I need to talk to you.”

Samuel. She didn’t turn to face him. She couldn’t. He’d see how upset she was, and she’d be damned if she would give him the satisfaction of witnessing her mortification again. Once was more than enough, thank you very much.

“Victoria, please.” His voice pleaded with desperation and something more. Vulnerability?

She could stay angry at haughty, confident Samuel, college dean from a pedigreed Southern family. But vulnerable Samuel melted her resolve. She turned to face him. “What could you possibly have to talk to me about?”

“More than you might imagine. Can we get a drink or something?”

“I suppose.” She sighed, motioned Jonie ahead, then turned back to Samuel. “You can buy me a mint julep. I’ve always wanted to try one.” And right now, she could use a stiff drink.

His face relaxed into a smile. “Splendid. I’ve wanted to try one as well.”

His hand on her elbow, he steered her away from the seats toward the interior, probably to Millionaire’s Row or some such elite area where she’d be out of her element. But wasn’t that the crux of the matter? With Samuel, she always was in over her head, and he’d never let her forget it. He seemed determined to talk to her, however, so she’d hear him out. He undoubtedly wanted to apologize for his brusque dismissal of her three years ago. She’d give him closure, pretend indifference, then rejoin Jonie in their seats.

*

Samuel had no idea where one wined and dined at Churchill Downs. He finally settled for the third floor concession area, where he and Victoria stood with their drinks. A mint julep turned out to be bourbon, sugar, and water served over ice and muddled fresh mint leaves. He took a cautious sip, although Victoria had already downed half of her drink. She’d hardly imbibed three years ago. Was he now driving her to drink?

She’d changed. Stunning, Victoria turned heads in the concession area. She had more poise, an air of confidence. Her familiar fragrance hadn’t changed, though. Like a subtle but delicious blend of Oriental spices, it never failed to fuel his hunger for her. His imagination raced ahead, picturing her at his side at faculty functions, at home sharing an intimate meal, at the altar... Whoa! First he had to engage her in a dialogue so he could convince her he’d changed, too.

“You look very nice, Victoria.”

She leveled her blue-eyed gaze at him. “Thanks. So do you.”

“Is this your first Kentucky Derby, too?”

She nodded. “I’ll admit I didn’t know so many other activities surrounded the race. Jonie took me to a balloon race, a steamboat race, the Pegasus parade—”

“You stood in that rain?”

“It was worth it. Besides, it quit right before the parade started.” She took another sip of her mint julep. “You were there?”

“Yes, against my better judgment. Sofia’s mother insisted, and I have a feeling few people say no to Lucinda Desalvo.” He found it easy to comply with the family matriarch’s demands. “My brother is fortunate to have her for a mother-in-law. She’s a lovely lady.”

“Fia’s a lovely lady, too. I gather her mom is excited about having two new grandbabies.”

“Ecstatic.” Pregnant women typically made Samuel uncomfortable, but being around Sofia and her sister-in-law Sally this week had infected him with an unfortunate case of envy. Here he was forty years old with no prospects of a family of his own. He cleared his throat and changed the subject. “So where have you been since you left Drake Springs?”

“Sacramento for two years. I had a job as an assistant to one of the state representatives.” She held up her julep cup as if proposing a toast. “A step up from running your campus bookstore, eh?”

“I’m not sure what you’re implying. No one since has been able to replace you, so I’m not surprised by your success.”

“Aren’t you?”

“Certainly not—”

“Let’s not kid ourselves, Samuel. The last time you spoke to me, you made it clear I wasn’t good enough for you.”

“That wasn’t my intention.” He hung his head, unable to deny her accusation. “I was an ass.”

“Yes, you were.”

“I’m sorry, Victoria. Genuinely sorry.”

“Apology accepted.” She finished her drink and stepped back. “I wish you well. Now don’t you think we should rejoin our friends?”

“Wait.” Something akin to panic squeezed his chest. If she left him, he might never again find her. “I don’t know how to reach you or find you, and I really want to talk awhile. Several races precede the Derby, so we won’t miss it. Please stay.”

*

He’d said please, and for the second time. Victoria caved. “All right.”

“Good. So you said you worked two years in Sacramento. Then what? Did the state representative lose reelection?”

She shuddered. “Actually, she died in office. Assassinated.”

“How dreadful.” He snapped his fingers. “Shelia Woosley?”

“Yes.” She would never forget the horror of standing next to her boss and mentor just as her head exploded from the assassin’s bullet. “Did you see it on the news?”

“Of course, but also Taylor was living in California when it happened. Her photographs helped police solve the case.”

Right. The Pulitizer-prize-winning little sister. Another reminder that she, Victoria, didn’t fit in the Drake family’s world. “I didn’t realize that.”

Sofia seemed outgoing, though. Her off-the-rack maternity dress was expensive, but hardly designer fashion. And no one was as down to earth as her husband, Wil, the antithesis of his brother. Could Samuel be the one out of his element instead of Victoria? The thought took root and lingered.

“You said two years. What about lately?” he asked.

“Mom wanted me to stay with her while she had knee replacement surgery, so I’ve been in Tampa the past year. Now I’m sort of at loose ends.” She gave a humorless laugh. “I don’t have to tell you about the tight job market.”

“Tampa. I wish I’d known.”

Yeah, right. “You didn’t try to find me, Samuel, so don’t pretend otherwise.”

Samuel gave a hangdog look. “Candidly speaking, I wasn’t proud of my conduct toward you. I wasn’t sure you’d welcome my overtures.”

Candidly speaking? Overtures? Good grief. Why couldn’t the guy talk like a normal person? She’d call him pretentious, but such vocabulary rolled naturally from him. He was clueless how stiff he sounded. “So I wasn’t worth taking a risk.”

He shrugged. “It isn’t like that. You know I’ve never been a risk taker.”

“Whatever. We’ve both moved on—”

“Have you? Is there someone in your life, Victoria?”

How did she answer? After you crushed my ego and my heart, I couldn’t put myself out there again. No. She wasn’t about to expose her feelings. Instead she asked, “Have you?”

He shook his head. “No one’s measured up—”

“No surprise there.”

“I mean, no one can measure up to you.” He stabbed his drink straw repeatedly into the mint leaves. “I regret every pompous, arrogant word I said to you.”

She lifted her julep cup to take a drink only to find it empty. “Whew. I’ve never seen this side of you, Samuel.”

“Much has happened in the past three years, and I’ve seen the error of my ways. Truly. If you would give me the chance, I’d show you how I’ve changed.”

Her heart pounded, racing with hope she dare not recognize. But still. He’d said give me the chance. “What do you mean?”

He stepped closer, so close the subtle scent of his expensive citrusy cologne filled her senses. “I want you in my life, sweetheart.”

Caution overruled hope. Long ago, he’d led her to believe she was special to him, then he’d back-peddled. He couldn’t expect a few words of remorse to erase the pain of his rejection. “You’re right, Samuel. Much has happened in three years, and I’ve changed, too. I’m not the starry-eyed grad student overwhelmed by the handsome college dean. I can’t pick up where we left off.”

“I don’t want to resume what we had, because I wasn’t ready for it. I didn’t appreciate it. Victoria, the powerful bond I had with you frightened me beyond reason and I panicked.”

“Frightened you?” So he’d pushed her away. Had she overreacted by running? She’d loved him, but pride wouldn’t let her stay in town. “I never suspected.”

“Earlier you accused me of not searching for you, of not taking a chance. But you didn’t gamble on me, either.”

“For a college dean, you have a poor recollection of the facts. I told you”—she lowered her voice—“that I loved you. I exposed my feelings. We both know how that ended. If that’s not taking a risk—”

“But you blindsided me. You should have stuck around and given me time to—”

“Time to what? Humiliate me further? No thanks.” A tiny voice in the back of her head said he had a point, though. Had she overreacted, too? Should she have fought for him?

*

That fire hadn’t been in her eyes three years ago. Now fierceness laced her tone and her scowl. Victoria had changed, indeed. For the better. He wanted, needed her in his life. How could he convince her? He couldn’t shake it’s-now-or-never syndrome.

“I apologized for that. Can’t you forgive me, ever?”

The public address system blared with a voice announcing the first race. Victoria flinched, but whether from his question or the loudspeaker, he couldn’t say. “I do forgive you, Samuel.”

“I’m asking for another chance. I’ve missed you.” He held his breath for her response.

She shook her head. “Forgiveness is a long way from reconciling. We aren’t the same people we were. Who says we’d be good together?”

“I say.” What more could he say to erase the doubt in her eyes? This was no time to play it safe. He had to bet it all. “I’m talking about going the distance, Victoria. I want to marry you, raise a family with you, spend my life with—”

“How can you say that, Samuel?” She looked around then lowered her voice. “You bump into me at a horse race and decide to propose? Even an educated man like you can see how ludicrous that is.”

“Point taken.” He drained the last of his mint julep. “I guess I deserve to lose you.”

“Lose me? Listen to yourself.”

“I’m not a charming man like Wilson. I may be educated, but I know zero about romance. I know I’ve made mistakes, but—as clichéd as it sounds—I promised myself if I had a second chance with you, I would move heaven and earth to make amends.”

“You’re calling a random encounter at Churchill Downs a second chance?”

“I’m hoping it is.”

Her cell phone rang, derailing whatever she was about to say. She checked the display then answered. “Hey, Jonie.” She opened her race program. “Yeah. Put twenty on Remember My Love to place.” 

Another pause. “I know it’s a long shot...Okay...See you soon.”

Remember my love. Samuel picked up on the irony. He wanted Victoria to remember his love. Then it hit him. She didn’t know! He’d never said the words. How obtuse could he be?

She closed the phone and shrugged. “What can I say? I’m a sucker for a long shot.”

“I suppose I am, too. I’d bet everything on you. On us.”

She blinked then flashed him a dazzling smile. “Oh, my. And you said you knew nothing about romance.”

“I also said I wasn’t much of a risk taker.” He took a deep breath, but it failed to steady his jittery hands or his racing pulse. “You are worth the risk, though, Victoria. I love you.”

“You love me?”

“I love you.” He took in his surroundings. A public concession at the Kentucky Derby was hardly the right milieu for such an intimate moment, but what choice did he have? “It took three lonely, agonizing years to accept the truth, but there is no one else for me.”

Victoria held his gaze and gave him a sad smile. “I’m speechless.”

“I ask only for a chance.”

*

He’d said the magic words. He loved her! Not that she’d run and jump in his arms, marry him on Monday, and do anything crazy and impulsive, but...he loved her! Pure joy filled her with giddiness.

“All right, Samuel. We’ll give it a shot. As I said, I’m a sucker for long shots.”

His shoulders relaxed, and he smiled. “This time, sweetheart, you’re betting on a sure thing.”

“We’ll see,” she said, but hope filled her. This was not the man she’d left three years ago. This Samuel was tender, sincere, and loving. They could make it work.

They left the concession area, Samuel’s hand possessively at her back emerging in the stands in time to see Remember My Love win the race.

Valentine's Day Movies

What is your favorite all-time romance movie to watch on Valentine's Day each year? Mine is, like many incurable romantics, An Affair to Remember. I've watched earlier and later versions of this movie, but none get me teary eyed and sentimental like the 1957 version. Much as I like Charles Boyer and Irene Dunn in the original, I relate better to the Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant version. I later learned that Kerr and Grant improvised some of their lines, so they truly were a good casting fit.

Why is this a sentimental favorite? (It's still one of the most aired movies during February and was voted the #5 greatest romance film of all time*) For me, it has the elements I look for in a good romance story. (Spoiler alert: If you've yet to watch the movie, stop reading now)

1. Conflict. Each is engaged to marry someone else, but they're attracted to each other.
2. Tough choices: Their significant others aren't villains or jerks. In fact, Terry's ex-fiance is a nice guy who remains her friend. We can't help but like him.
3. Sympathetic characters. Neither Nickie nor Terry wants to hurt anyone and truly tries to do what is right. They're honest and up front.
4. Tragic event: Terry is hit by a car on her way to rendezvous with Nickie. The accident leaves her wheelchair-bound.
5. Secrets: Terry hides her injury from Nickie. Nickie hides his heartache from Terry.
6. Character growth: Nickie, the rich playboy who hasn't worked a day in his life, proves he can be a successful painter. Terry finds a productive outlet in teaching music to children.
7. Pacing: The promise to meet in six months is exchanged precisely halfway through the movie.
8. Happy ending: Reunited and filled with hope, the two commit at the story's end.

I want a happy ending, which is why I have little enthusiasm for films like Message in a Bottle or Dr. Zhivago. 

If you share my love for this movie, tell me your reasons. If you have another favorite, please share. 

Happy Valentine's Day! ♥


*The American Film Institute

Release day for A Dose of Romance (Drake Springs Book 3)

IBOOKS | AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | KOBO | SMASHWORDS | 

Authors love release day. Months of hard work--writing, editing, proofing, revising, copy editing--culminates in a finished product ready for readers. You! I'm no different. I'm thrilled to have readers download A DOSE OF ROMANCE and read Tiffany and Woody's story. It's set around the holidays but isn't strictly a holiday read. 

This is book 3, you say, and you haven't yet read books 1 and/or 2? Don't let that stop you. While it's fun to read a series in order, you don't have to. My number one rule in writing a series romance is to make the story stand alone. Threads from other stories need to be reintroduced. I don't want my readers lost or scrambling to re-read a previous story. So even if you've yet to try the Drake Springs series, dive in and read A DOSE OF ROMANCE. If you like it, then you may want to buy previous titles. Or not. Your decision.

Happy reading!  And don't forget to enter the raffle for a $10 iTunes card.

Excerpt:

Tiffany rushed in to Fox’s Apothecary right before closing and headed directly to the pharmacy. 

The pharmacist turned to greet her. “Help you?” 

It was him. Woody Fox. Mister light-brew-with-half-and-half. Her heart stuttered and her breath caught. “Um, yes, I’m here to pick up a refill for my dad. Er, Drew Blair.” 

His smile widened. “Drew Blair is your dad? I guess I didn’t realize. . .that is, I didn’t know your name was Blair.” 

“You know my dad?” 

“Yes, I do. Not sure where I’d be without him. He keeps my old Bronco running.” 

“Don’t know where I’d be without him, either.” 

He turned to search through the white bags of filled prescription orders. “His is the best auto repair shop- in town.” 

She did an eye roll at his back. “Right. He’s the only shop in town.” 

He turned his dazzling smile on her. “Here you go.” 

She took the bag and thanked him. “Well, I guess I’ll see you Monday.” 

He frowned. “You don’t work Saturdays?” 

“I do.” She pointed to her temple. “Duh. I’m brain dead from too much studying.” 

“What are you studying?” 

“Business. I’ll have my associate’s degree in May.” 

His hazel eyes flashed with interest. “I didn’t realize you were a college student.” 

“I’m not going to wait tables all my life, not that there’s anything wrong with it.” 

“I know what you mean. What will you do with your degree?” 

“I have a few ideas. Dad says I can run his shop, but that’s risking everything on one business. It’s better to diversify.” 

“Right. Spread the risk.” He leaned against the counter. “I didn’t know they taught business classes at Drake College.” 

“They don’t. I have to commute to Florida Gateway College.” 

“Is that in Lake City?” 

“Right.” She’d stalled long enough. He might think she was flirting. She turned toward the front checkout counter. “See you later.” 

“Sure. I’d like to talk more about your business ideas.” 

“Uh, yeah. But not at the diner, okay? I don’t want to discuss it on the job.” 

“Gotcha.”

Boyd and Lorraine didn’t know her plan. No one did yet. So why had she mentioned it to Mister light-brew-with-half-and-half? Mister engaged-to-be-married light-brew-with-half-and-half?

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iBooks-the emerging giant in eBooks?

I don't know about you, but I do just about everything on my smartphone. I carry an iPhone 5S and love it, which surprises me because I resisted all things Apple for so many years. Live and learn.

I now have an app called Map My Walk that tells me how far I walk, what route I take, my splits (how long each mile takes), calories burned, etc. It emails me reports with summaries of my workouts. It even tracks how many miles are on my pair of shoes so I know when they should be replaced. 

I have an app that holds all my store loyalty cards. No more plastic tabs clogging up my key ring. Love that! I use the calendar app to track my family's appointments and activities, the email app to check for messages when I'm away from my PC, the MapQuest app when I need directions, the various social networking apps to check my friends' statuses, and the weather app to check the forecast. I can take photos and post them from my iPhone. I keep to-do lists and grocery lists stored, too.

Occasionally, I use the iPhone to place a call, although I now prefer texting. Who knew I'd be such a slave to one device?

While waiting in a doctor's or dentist's office, I read. I didn't realize how handy reading on my iPhone would be. Now I love it (and my iPad knows right where I leave off). 

So I'm late to the iBooks game, which I've learned is the fastest growing platform. News to me, but I see why. I can buy iBooks via the iTunes store using the iTunes account I already established for music, ringtones, and premium version of apps.

Most of my books are available via iBooks, too: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/cheryl-norman/id417449386?mt=11

If you are ready to jump into iBooks, you'll need an iTunes account. This month I'm offering a $10 iTunes gift card to a random entry. I hope you'll participate. If you win, you can download some iBooks and start reading wherever you go.

Happy Holidays.

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Holiday Stories

I've posted before about my love of holiday themed stories. I re-read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens every December. I watch all the corny holiday movies on the Hallmark channel. I have my own copy of A Christmas Story. I admit it. I'm a sucker for Christmas stories, especially romances.

The first Christmas romance I wrote was for Wings ePress. My contemporary romance Last Resort, which was inspired by and loosely based on the old Alec Guinness movie Last Holiday (this was before Queen Latifah's updated version---and yes, I have that DVD, too), earned me the 2003 EPPIE (now EPIC) award for best contemporary romance.

2003 Eppie Winner

Last year, I wrote my first inspirational romance story, The Christmas Prayer,  part of The Heart of Christmas anthology from Highland Press. The feedback I received from readers overwhelmed me. I didn't expect to find many readers for my foray into the subgenre of inspirational romance. Evidently, there's a market.

The reception for that story motivated me to write another, a sequel of sorts, titled Hometown Blessings, which is included in the Christmas Blessings anthology from Highland Press. (Note: All four stories connect to the four stories in the previous anthology, and there's talk of doing a third in the series for 2015). The "hometown" is fictional Harper, Georgia, a small community in the North Georgia mountains. The subject matter may be controversial, but I was moved to write the story. It's a timely issue--sexual predators within the church--and tough subject matter. Yet it's a happy holiday romance, too. I hope you'll give it a read.

Since it's gift giving season, consider copies of these anthologies as presents to the romance readers on your list. The anthology is offered in both print and e-book, or you can download the individual stories for .99 each.   

And don't forget to enter the drawing for the iTunes gift card.

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FOSTER CARE ~ Drake Springs Book 2

What do you think when you hear "Foster Care?" In Drake Springs, "Foster Care" isn't used in the usual sense. Foster Care, located in Foster County and run by the two Foster sisters, is a nursery school and daycare facility. Actually, it's the nursery school and daycare. Drake Springs is a small town, and before the sisters opened Foster Care, working parents had few options for childcare. 

Kirby and Mandy Foster share a passion for children and education, so their chosen career paths make sense. Both vow to keep Foster Care open even in the event they marry. In Kirby's case, marriage is highly unlikely. She's gun shy after her ex betrayed her. Older sister Mandy is just too picky to find Mr. Right.

When a private investigator asks Kirby out to dinner, she knows it's a safe date. He'll soon head back to New Jersey, and she's not serious about any guy. But Nick Tomasi isn't just any guy. He's amazingly easy to talk to (and amazingly easy on the eyes, too). In fact, he seems eerily familiar. It's as if she's known him her entire adult life. How could that be?

As for Nick, could the pretty red-haired Kirby knock him off his game? Soon he falls victim to her "Foster Care" and almost forgets his real reason for the trip to Drake Springs. When Kirby finds out, all hope for a future with her almost soul mate evaporates. Can Nick save the day and win the girl, or will he ride off into the sunset?

Foster Care is available in digital formats from the following sites:



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Where is Harper, Georgia?

The fourth and final holiday story in Christmas Blessings is mine, Hometown Blessings. The title's "hometown" is fictional Harper, Georgia, which is located vaguely near Cleveland, Georgia, in the mountains.

If you visit Cleveland (or any of the area's towns) you'll get a feel for the small town of Harper. My mental model for the town actually was Jasper, Georgia, but I wanted it located a bit closer to Gainesville and Atlanta. Folks in the North Georgia mountains get along. As with most small towns, they band together to help neighbors in need. Plenty of churches of all denominations dot the landscape, and there's a town square with the county courthouse and surrounding local businesses.

And there's good eats! In fact, the "Good Eats" man himself, Alton Brown, is from Georgia. The Smith House in Dahlonega and the Dillard House in Dillard are just two of the many family style restaurants where great local cuisine is served in large bowls (all you can eat!) that get passed around the table. Some of these seat you at large tables with strangers, but you won't be strangers long. Nothing breaks the ice like breaking bread together--usually cornbread.

The Moonlight Diner sits right in the center of Harper, right on the town square, and owner Maudine Jones serves the best biscuits in the South. It's where locals gather for the lunch special or simply for a coffee break. If you're law enforcement, Maudine gives you free coffee, so guess where local cops take their breaks.

Right before Thanksgiving, Harper decorates the town with lighted candy canes on each lamp post. Every place of business participates with lights of their own. The first Saturday in December is the parade and festival, followed that evening by the tree lighting and, weather permitting, street dance.

Welcome to Harper, Georgia. Y'all come on in and sit a spell. Get to know the friendly folks and yummy food. Enjoy Hometown Blessings.

And don't y'all forget to enter the giveaway! You can enter again today even if you've already participated.

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The Magic of Mistletoe, Tennessee

When it comes to Christmas tradition, no town does a better job than Mistletoe, Tennessee. Just ask its creator, author Judith Leigh, our next guest poster. Judy is a good friend, and her compassion and sensitivity show up in her writing.

My setting for Mistletoe Blessings came about one day when I was looking through a travel magazine. I spotted a picture of a snow-covered town, the kind that you see on a Courier & Ives Christmas card. The caption read Why Not Spend Christmas on Lookout Mountain. I knew where I was going to send my heroine, and since they grow Mistletoe around the area that is what I named my town.

Mistletoe is in Tennessee. The small town has grown somewhat and boasts a population of 7,950 residents. When they want to do heavy shopping and fancy eating, they go to Nashville or Chattanooga. Mistletoe is noted for its magical happenings. Many tourists have experienced the strange feelings that come over them while looking at the town’s angel statue. It stands near the center of town next to a Gazebo. It’s a place where dreams come true.     

Many of my characters were born and raised there. Others left then returned to stay forever. Warmth and love surround this town. The citizens are always there for each other with a helping hand and encouragement. It’s a place that once you come here you don’t want to leave; and if you do leave, you’ll come back again and again. 

Come on, why not plan a trip to Mistletoe? See what magic awaits this Christmas. We’re waiting for y'all at the café with a glass of milk and a piece of Tami’s Christmas cake.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway. You may enter every day! 

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Welcome to Stableton, Florida

Today's guest post is from Susan Sweet, friend and author of inspirational stories for Highland Press and mysteries for Wings ePress. Susan takes us on a tour of her story's small town.

Dan Forest returned to his home town Stableton, Florida, after losing his wife and daughter to the devastating floods of Hurricane Katrina. He needed to be around his family and friends to put his life back together.

Stableton is a fictional small town in northern Florida, where there are fewer than 25,000 people. It boasts one major fire department, a sheriff's office, one hospital, and one large shopping strip which includes a major grocery store. Everyone there either knows you or has heard of you, but in a nice way. The closest major town is Jacksonville. If you need the attractions that city holds, you have to travel only 35 miles.

The citizens are friendly, helpful and actually care about the well-being of their fellow neighbors and friends. This is the town I've picked for my character's haven. This is the town where Betty and her daughter Amber rejoin their family to try and move on after tragedy struck them. You'll see how the family atmosphere of this small town steps in to do just that very thing.

Don't miss A Flood of Blessings, the lead story in Christmas Blessings. And don't forget to enter the giveaway. You may enter every day.

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Small Town Holiday Stories

I'm a sucker for corny holiday stories. When George Bailey races through the snowy Christmas Eve to the town square of Bedford Falls yelling "Merry Christmas, Mr. Potter" I choke up. It's a Wonderful Life is a wonderful lesson in appreciating what we have.

Shopping for books, I'm drawn to cover art featuring a snow-covered town square decorated for Christmas. During November and December, my default channel on my TV is Hallmark because the network shows holiday films every day. Some I've watched a dozen times, like November Christmas, and I still boo hoo when the town pulls out all the stops to move up the calendar for a leukemia-stricken little girl (Spoiler alert: She lives. I couldn't watch it if she didn't).

Sure, good holiday stories are set in large cities, too, none better than Miracle on 34th Street. My first trip to the Big Apple included a shopping trip to the Macy's on 34th. Of course. Unfortunately, it was August and St. Nicholas wasn't there yet. Most of my favorites, though, take place in small towns.

My writing colleagues (and now my good friends!) and I put together an anthology of inspirational stories featuring feel-good Christmas stories set in small, Southern towns. Over the next few days, we'll give you a tour of each story's community.

We believe Christmas Blessings makes a good gift for the readers on your list. You may enjoy our previous anthology, The Heart of Christmas. The set would make a doubly good gift. Be sure to enter the giveaway to win a free copy of The Heart of Christmas. You can enter every day!

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Meet Maddie James-Author

Please welcome another of my Kentucky author friends, Maddie James!

I’m thrilled to be part of the Enchanted Lover: Tales of Everlasting Love boxed set, with Margaret Ethridge, JC Wardon, Jan Scarbrough, JM Kelley, and Cat Shaffer. This wonderfully diverse set of paranormal novels is sure to please. No vampires and no werewolves, but there is magic, ghosts/spirits, mystics, witches, reincarnation, and time-travel. That enough to scratch your paranormal itch?

AMAZON | BARNES
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My book, Entranced, is the lead book in my Soul Mates series. 

Here’s the blurb:

Can souls touch through time and hold on when all odds are against them?

Claire Winslow vacations on an East Coast barrier island, content with her life and her potential future—until the illusion of a man walking the misty shore haunts her. Then one kiss—a beautiful, soulful, stolen kiss in the night—and her life changes forever.


Nearly 300 years past, Jack Porter is in hot pursuit of his kidnapped wife. Not an easy feat considering the year is 1718 and the kidnapper is the notorious pirate Blackbeard aka Edward Teach. Determined to rescue his wife and take the pirate’s head in the process, Jack steals aboard the pirate’s ship to save her.


Entranced sends Jack and Claire on a wild search through time, not only for the resolution to a powerful attraction between them, but also for a historical artifact that holds the key to their future happiness—the coveted silver-plated chalice made from Blackbeard’s skull.

***

The year was 1990 (I think). I had just discovered Romance Writers of America and was attending a yet-to-be-official Kentucky chapter meeting. I’d met informally with a couple of the women who were pulling the chapter together. The lady who was soon to be the president had just returned from the RWA convention.

During the meeting she pulled out a thick, red, hardback novel, placed it on the table, and said, “And this publisher was giving away this novel. I assume they think she is going to be huge! Why would they put a hardback novel on the chair of every attendee at dinner if they didn’t think so?”
She passed the book around. I held it in my hands and could only dream. I jotted down the title, and soon thereafter, bought my own copy.

That book was Diana Galbadon’s Outlander. And yes, she of course, turned out to be huge.

Outlander was my introduction to time travel novels – especially romantic time travel novels. I fell in love with Jamie Fraser like most every other woman who has read the books. I loved the idea of falling through time—how does that work, exactly? And was curious about how to handle parallel universes, and make everything fit together.

The thought of escape, disappearance, of not being in control of what was happening to you, or where you had landed, intrigued me.

And as years rolled on, after reading the first few books in the series, I knew that I needed to pen one of my own. How? I wasn’t sure. And I definitely didn’t whip one or two out within a few months. I can easily say this writing project has been with me for two decades.

At this point in my writing career, I was a neophyte. I’d been stabbing at contemporary category romance, sending my work out to Harlequin and Silhouette. Unsuccessfully. What made me think I could pull off something incredibly complex like a time travel novel? Or a series?

I suppose it was the immediate love I had for the genre. It was different, at least to me. I’d never read anything like it before. And I knew I had to go for it. I also knew it would be tricky, and that I needed to take my time with it.

While on a family vacation during spring break of 1992, I found my premise, and the setting. Pirates, the ocean, the Outer Banks of North Carolina. My next step was research. And finally, I started to write. And write. And write.

And now, here we have it. The five book Soul Mates series, with the first three books released, and books four and five coming in winter/spring 2015. I'm so excited to have Entranced be included with this boxed set, so that more readers hopefully can be turned on to this series. Enjoy!


Remember, here are the details for the Enchanted Lover boxed set!

ENCHANTED LOVER: Tales of Everlasting Love 

Seven Novels of Mystical, Magical and Paranormal Romance 

PARAMOUR by Margaret Ethridge (ghost)
Two men: one living, one dead, and both vying for her love. Camellia Stafford has never been alone in her room. For twenty years, she's been engaged in a fierce power struggle with her bedroom's previous tenant, Frank DeLuca, the ghost trapped in the light fixture above her bed.



ENTRANCED by Maddie James (time travel, reincarnation)
Jack and Claire set out on a wild search through time, not only for the resolution to a powerful attraction between them, but also for a historical artifact that holds the key to their future happiness--the coveted silver-plated chalice made from Blackbeard's skull.



MYSTIC THUNDER by JC Wardon (witch, mystic)
Millennia of tempestuous ancestral history forewarn Rayne Cavanaugh to hide her ability to communicate with ghosts. But-- When the nephew of the man she just can't resist goes missing in the mountains of Mystic Waters, West Virginia, she must decide between self-preservation and love.



RUNNING OUT OF TIME by Cheryl Norman (time travel)
When Stacy Webber travels to Germany for her best friend's wedding, she loses more than her luggage and purse. She lands in a different time, fifty years ago, with no idea how to return to her world.



TIMELESS by Jan Scarbrough (psychic, ghost, reincarnation)
When Beth Abbott receives a surprise inheritance from her birth mother, she travels to the family's nineteenth century mansion in Old Louisville, KY, now a bed and breakfast. There she meets the resident ghost, a little girl whose crying not only scares, but also intrigues guests.



MAN OF HER DREAMS by Cat Shaffer (dreams, parallel times)
Jessi Flint has a perfectly good life with a successful business and the perfect man. So, he's only in her dreams...until her flaky assistant goes to a New Age fair and Jessi suddenly begins receiving gifts with love notes signed by a mysterious Damian.



ALMOST MAGIC by J.M. Kelley (magic, witch, gifts)
When it came to Vivian Burroughs' unique connection with nature, her grandmother always said, 'Mediocrity may not burn as bright as a firecracker, but it seldom blows up in your face.' But the old woman never advised her on what to do when a sexy new neighbor stokes the flames of attraction.

AMAZON | BARNES
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Enchanted Lovers Blog Tour

Contest Starts October 7 - October 20, 2014

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RETURN TO DRAKE SPRINGS now!

Today is release day for RETURN TO DRAKE SPRINGS. I am excited to launch this category romance series with Turquoise Morning Press. RETURN TO DRAKE SPRINGS is the first of a six-book "Next Door" series of romance stories, all set in the small Florida town of Drake Springs.

Lance George debates his decision to return to his hometown, but the price is right on the abandoned veterinary hospital he hopes to buy. He’s saved his money to open his practice by living frugally and purchasing wisely. There’s no room in his life for wasteful spending. His alcoholic mother squandered everything she had when he was growing up, leaving him with an obsessive motivation to achieve financial security.

Iris Porter is unaware that she broke Lance’s heart in high school. She’s too busy trying to earn a living in a tough economy. She hopes to reclaim her old job as a veterinary assistant when Lance reopens the town’s only animal clinic. Popular and friendly, Iris is known to be generous to a fault. When a friend’s baby is stricken with leukemia, she organizes fundraisers and enlists Lance’s help.

Lance’s feelings for Iris rekindle when he realizes how much she’s changed. The high school snob is at odds with the caring, sensitive woman who wants to help a family in need. But can he reconcile Iris’s generous spirit with his overpowering need for penny pinching? 

Every book in the series begins with a post from the town's newspaper editor. Here is a sneak peek:

From The Drake Springs Democrat, 

Amy Gillespie, editor.

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Town Crier.” 

Don’t believe everything you hear about small towns. There is plenty going on in Drake Springs, Florida. We have an engagement announcement in the Community section. The dean at Drake College of Liberal Arts, Samuel Drake, is getting married to Victoria Draper of Tampa. This is happy news for the couple but sad news for our annual bachelor auction for charity. Sam Drake always earned generous bids from the women. 

In addition to the lovebirds, the love bugs have returned this month in full force. The swarms of insects that blacken windshields and threaten radiators show up every May and September. Along with our spring visitors, hot weather has returned. So if you’re new to the North Florida area, I say, “Yes. This is normal. Sorry.” At least we don’t need snow removal equipment and chains in winter. I’ll take that trade-off. 

My secret source in real estate says sales have picked up. Look for a couple of new businesses opening soon. Has someone finally purchased the Wilson House? It would make a lovely bed and breakfast (hint, hint). We also need a barista and a veterinarian. Any takers? 

Until next time, remember it’s not gossip if it’s true!

Amy

If some of these names seem familiar, you must have read Reclaim My Life or Rebuild My World, two romantic suspense novels that started my attachment to the small town of Drake Springs, Florida. Or perhaps you read the short story Veiled Threat, part of the Wedding Day Collection anthology.

If you're new to Drake Springs, fear not. The friendly citizens will make you feel right at home. Enjoy!

~*~

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