Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

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Hi Shannon,
I'm so happy you could visit me here on my blog. If the readers love your books half as much as I do, you'll be a best seller in no time.
Hugs Mimi



Available


Two sisters. Two gorgeous men. A legendary prophecy.
Monsters, magic, deception and sensuality. Be prepared to dive into Dark Waters!



Aavailable


Compared to "I am Legend", Sundered will take you into the dark realms of an apocalypse, with a new breed of zombie that will have your heart pounding, your palms sweaty and the pages flying. A Novella with true bite.


TheSpanish Inquisition: Shannon Mayer on the Chopping Block Name -Shannon Jerene (yes that's right) Mayer Age -32 AstrologicalSign -Gemini Status -Married,no kids Bookscurrently available - Sundered, Bound, Dauntless (Books 1-3 ofA Zombie-ish Apocalypse) and my most recent book is Dark Waters: Celtic LegacyBook 1
Whatis your favourite book you've written? Now that's not fair, you aren't supposed to play favouriteswith your "babies".Ìý Okay, I'll try.Sundered was my first Indie Book so it holds a special place and to write alove story in the middle of a zombie-ish apocalypse was a BLAST. But, DarkWaters is special too. It was a lot harder for me to write in that I had topull on my experiences with almost losing my little sister to drugs and thestreet, so the emotions in that book are super close to my heart. Dang, I don'tthink I can pick one, maybe down the line, but right now, they all are soimportant to me in different ways. Wasyour family supportive of you and your writing?
ÌýYes and no. Myhusband, he was the one who encouraged me to follow my dreams. He pushed mepretty hard and I fought him at first, my own stupid stubborn nature, but Ithink I was afraid that in writing, putting myself out there, people wouldjudge me. Which of course they do whether they read something you write or not.I got over that, eventually. The rest of my family, it was a split, about halfwere super encouraging, and half didn't really think there was much to thewriting. By that I mean they thought it was just a hobby, that it could neverbe a career. But when Sundered was released (and now it has over 50 reviewswith a 4.7 average) I think they saw that perhaps there was enough talent in meto actually make it as a writer and they've all come around. What'sthe best compliment on your writing?
LOL. Not including some of my reviews (which a couple mademe laugh till I was crying) my favourite compliment was "I hate to say this,but it was a hell of a lot better than I expected. I was shocked."Ìý That was a neighbour, he then went on to readthe next two books, couldn't get enough after that, but it was one of thosecompliments that I knew was honest, which I loved.
Isthere one thing you would change so far in your writing journey?
Well, I would say that I have learned so much, that I justwish I could go back and apply it from the beginning. Like understanding how toget the best cover art, when to release your book (or better yet when NOT to!)finding the best editors, proofreaders and beta readers.
Whatare you reading right now?
ÌýI have a couple ofbooks on the go right now. "The Corridors of the Dead" By Jonathan Allen, "SHE"by James Caterino and I just started Heather McCorkle's book "The Secret of SpruceKnoll: A Channeler Novel". Pieceof advice for authors or readers?
For authors I would say just keep at it and do your best tokeep up with the CONSTANTLY shifting industry.ÌýFor readers? GO READ MY BOOKS (LOL) no really, there are a ton of greatIndie authors out there, don't turn your nose up at them, those gems will oneday be the authors you see on the bookstore shelves.
Feb 3rd & 4thÌýDark Waters and Sundered will be FREE! This opportunity to check outthese two amazing series for FREE won't come again, so get them while you can!
After a2 year period waiting on her agent to actually do something, Ms. Mayer droppedthe agent, and self published her first trilogy, A Zombie-ish Apocalypse whichincludes Sundered, Bound and Dauntless.ÌýHer latest book, Dark Waters: Celtic Legacy Book 1 centers on the bondsof sisters while delving into the world of nightmares and magic. For more infoon Shannon Mayer and her writing go to or follow her on Twitter @TheShannonMayer
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Hi, Diana! I'm so happy to have you visitng my blog, theÌýsanctuary of a woman who not only hears voices, but so does her characters. Of course it's because they haveÌýother spirits invading their bodies but thenÌýit's still rather strange...right? And thank you for offering a free copy of your books to some lucky commenter. It makes it more fun for the readersÌýtoÌýleave youÌýa note - maybe telling you about their own experience with voices?? p.s. Don't get me started about driving? I need toÌýconcentrate instead of arriving and wondering how the hell I got there? Hugs Mimi


Available




THEGOOD DAUGHTER: When the mob kills her cop boyfriend and ruins her chances for anew life, a determined Mafia daughter vows to bring them down—even if it meansdestroying her family. She finds an ally in FBI agent Dave Armstrong, and thoughshe falls in love with him, nothing will dissuade her from ensuring the mob'sdownfall, even if she has to go outside the law.

Available
Available




PIRATE'S PROPOSAL: Set in1719 Bahamas, a swashbuckling tale about a pirate alliance that leads to loveand a gypsy curse that threatens everything.


LIVING IN THEWORLD OF MAKE-BELIEVE

My name isDiana Layne. And I hear voices in my head.
There. I saidit. I realize a person in the mental health field might be a little worriedreading that. But honestly, it took me a long time to figure out that not everyonehears voices in their head. No, I mean really. A long time. As in recently. AndI'm almost�
Yeah, well,let's forget how old I am.
I was broughtto this startling realization of what I'll call silent-head syndrome when I hada conversation with a writer friend who confessed her daughter didn't havepeople living in her head. That statement pulled me right out of any writerlymental playground. What?? Not everyone has imaginary playmates? I struggled tograsp such a foreign concept.
The friendsin my head have been with me since I was a tot.
Perhaps it'sbecause I was an only child and an only grandchild and created imaginaryfriends to combat loneliness. No people living in computers back in my day.Although as a side note, I love my computer, I call it 'my precious', but Ihave to be careful so the friends in my head don't get jealous. (They go awayand sulk when they get jealous—bad scary times then. Yes, I know who's incharge.)
But no, therewere no computers back in the…er, yeah, forgot, we're not mentioning how manyyears ago that was. Just know it was BC. Before Computers.
The jealousything is only one drawback of having friends in your head and living in amake-believe world.Ìý
Yep, believeit or not, as wonderful as it is to never get lonely, to have friends to escapeto when reality gets stressful, there are other drawbacks and dangers. And no,I'm not talking about the danger of being carted off in a straightjacketalthough I suppose that is always a possibility.
Voices inyour head can be rather distracting when you have to do some real life stuff. Iknow. Real life. How annoying.
Things likecooking. I hate cooking.
Which is whyI bring my friends out to play when I have to cook.
Ok, so thefood ends up a little burned.Ìý But youknow, by now, my family has lived with burned food so long, they think if itisn't burned, it's not done. I know, I know, hard to believe. But trust me onthis.
Anotherhazard in cooking is using a knife--Ìý
Nah, forgetit, that story's too gory, I won't go into that. But I did once misplace a bagof frozen broccoli—and not in the freezer. House smelled for days; I tore it uplooking for the source, bought enough scented candles it should've made theplace smell like a bawdy house, until at last I tracked down from whence thestench flourished. Where, you ask?Ìý In acabinet up over the stove. That's where the company-comes-calling dishes arestored. I have no idea or memory of storing it there. It must have been abrilliant brainchild of one of my 'friends.'
Should I moveon to driving?
First, if youlive in the world of make-believe and have teen drivers� Beware! You could beoff playing and your driving-age kid, who is now old enough to recognize onlyyour body is there, knows it's the perfect time to ask to borrow the car.
Later, youmight join the real world only to wonder where your kid…and your car…are, andthe kid is wisely not answering the cell phone. (No, I don't speak fromexperience, why would you ask?)
As for mepersonally driving…well, I've run stoplights and found myself speeding, ofcourse, and thank goodness I realized it before the cops did. But then thereare times it gets a little scary when I look around and realize I have no ideawhere I am.Ìý I have no sense of directionand getting lost can be a jolting experience. Oh, but we have GPS now, right!Let me tell you, I've managed to get my GPS lost. No, not lose my GPS, but getthat poor lady in the box so lost and confused she sounds like anout-of-control talking doll. "Continue one block. In two feet turn left, in onefoot, turn right." Left. Right. Straight. Poof, blown fuse! Useless GPS. Sigh.
Maybe Ishould have a sign on the side of my mini-van. Warning: Writer Driving!
To prove it'snot just me, I asked a couple of writer friends what can happen when they arebusy in their make-believe world.
JerrieAlexander ( ) has learned, "It's a mistake toget so wrapped up [with imaginary friends] I don't pay attention when the doggrowls."
Jealous dog,I think, worse than needy kids. "Does he need to go out or is he fighting withthe cat?" I ask.
"Growls whenhe wants to go out. Kicks it to ear-deafening barks if you don't listen. For 7pounds, he's got a set of lungs."
Note to self:Get a doggie door if I acquire a small dog…or better…don't acquire small dog.
Another landof make-believe resident, Danielle KazemiÌý(), confesses to burned dinners as well. (I contend charcoal is good for yourkids!)
But the mostmemorable thing she has done while being distracted with her playmates:Ìý "The best has to be I flooded the bathroomonce. The scene just could not wait." She chuckles.
"Flooding thebathroom! " I gasp. That pretty much beats stinky broccoli. "How did thathappen?"
Givinganother small laugh she admits, "I turned on the water to take a bath then Iremembered I needed something before I got in. So I left to go get it. Thecomputer was on and somehow I ended up sitting down and writing a scene. By thetime I remembered, the tub had overflowed. Spent a while cleaning that."
Proof indeed,the siren call of imaginary friends.
So there youhave it, living in the world of make-believe. Wouldn't trade it for the realworld for anything. Even if, like Danielle, it means I need a king-size mop�


Diana Layne's land of make-believe isnon-discriminatory and she plays equally well with pirates, mobsters, soccerplayers and FBI agents. You can read about her—er, their latest adventures at

***

As areader, do you chose books written by humorous authors? Is it an aspect of astory that you search for? When you have a choice of what to read, and it'sobvious by the back blurb that a book has a lighter spirit rather than a gloomydowner tendency, would that be a deciding factor?

Many ofthese questions have been on my mind since I first started to write. I can'timagine my main characters having to experience all the conflicts of awell-plotted story without a sense of humor. Obviously, not everything is funnyand shouldn't be, but it's important to me that I care about the main people inmy stories, what happens to them, and how they succeed. And producing a chuckleor two by the time I reach the end, well that just makes it more satisfying.

As an avidreader, I'll admit that humor is the difference between whether I go lookingfor other work by the same author or move on to someone new. Many times I'vestruggled through heavy pathos and conflicts that break my heart for the heroor heroine, and right till end there's no relief. Many times the books werebrilliant and so well written they deserved 5 stars, but somehow they stilldon't give me the satisfaction as a story that can make me experience a few smilesas well as the tears.

Andfinally, let's be realistic.Ìý Mostpeople I know like to laugh and enjoy life. Not everything is serious, and manypeople who suffer tragedies bravely smile through their fears. Even when theworst moments are happening, it's human nature to try and lighten the load.Therefore, shouldn't our characters be based on reality?


So, back to my original question, is humor anelement you look for in the books you choose?



Available at

Available at

ÌýMy Cheeky Angel is a humorous story about a mixed-upfemale who's so unhappy she needs the help of a cheeky angel to set her on theright path. To give her the strength to make the changes she thinks are soimportant. But are they?




She loves a man who only treats heras a pal. By exchanging her sloppy jeans and t-shirts to classy suits and fancyclothes, will he see her differently?




Once in the clutches of the power-hungry world of bigbusiness, Annie fights to retain her true identity. But first, she needs todecide who she wants to be and what's really important.









Excerpt:ÌýÌýÌýÌý ÌýÌýÌýÌý
Every time heclosed his eyes, a strange image of Annie in trouble took on such realistictendencies it seemed surreal. Sick of his own company, Tyler decided a walkwould do him a world of good, clear his head, and help to get his mind off histomboy gone rogue. Once the ideaappeared, it became a fixation. No choice, no dragging his feet, he had to getout of his apartment. Either he needed hallucination treatments or a curt,gravelly female had taken up residence in his brain and urged him to hurry andget his butt moving. The elevator, notever on his floor, awaited him with the door open and no one else inside. Heshivered. Strange and stranger! The ride down lasted only seconds. When itslowly opened, a nightmare unfolded. One look at his Annie clinging to herevening's escort and hisrage superseded common sense. Without thought, he ripped her from the scumbag's groping fingersand shoved the conceited-looking, puffed-up character against the wall. AllTyler's six feet twoinches of anger intimidated. He watched the coward evaluate, then shrink back. Within seconds thesmooth prick spoke. "Anna had a bit toomuch to drink. I was seeing her safely home.""Not a problem. I'll take her up," he growled. Bythis time, Tyler had a supportive arm around the wobbly woman. He looked downat her. "Say bye-bye to yourdate...Anna." His spitting outher newly chosen name would have set worry bells ringing, if she'd been in hernormal state of mind. Blitzed out of her head, she just jiggled her fingers andsaid, "Bye-bye, date." With everythinghappening so fast, Tyler knew Annie hadn't had a chance tofully appreciate the change in her situation. One minute she was leaningdrunkenly against the slimy character whose hands were all over her body, whileher unfocused eyes gazed at him adoringly. The next minute, Tyler had takenover. As the elevatordoors closed, leaving Sergio shrugging off his disappointment, a fuming Tylerlifted Annie into his arms. At ease, Anniewrapped her arms around him, snuggled her face into his neck, and then sighed.His familiar expensive cologne, one of her gifts that he regularly used, seemedto soothe her. "I love how yousmell." His anger fled themoment he became aware that she sniffed at him like a small kitten. His legsalmost buckled when he felt the tip of her tongue lick him, and then press atiny kiss over the wet spot.The groan starteddeep, frustration forcing it out, chasing away his righteous snit. At her door,he lowered her to her unsteady feet, but she refused to unwind her arms fromaround his neck. They clung, her body glued to his. He reached up forthe hidden key she kept stashed above her door, while balancing her with onearm. The lock took forever to get opened. Not that she noticed. Busyfamiliarizing his ear with her lips kept her amused. Swinging her back up andinto his arms, he kicked the door closed behind them and carried her carefullyinto her bedroom, a room which seemed to have undergone huge changes since theday he'd helped her paintthe ivory walls.Pillows of allshapes, in all shades of turquoise, some beaded, some embroidered, were strewnhelter-skelter over a new satiny brown duvet. He swiped at them one-handed,clearing a space as he lowered her body to the side of the bed, letting herflip backwards. Trouble was, she had his neck imprisoned by her strong,clinging arms, and she wasn't about to let go. He fell over her,half covering her body."Please," she whispered. "Kiss me. I have tobe kissed at least once tonight, I just—have to." She pushedupwards, thrusting her breasts against his chest. Her desire sparkedhis, and her admission that she hadn't yet been kissed assuaged most of thegut-wrenching rage he'd felt at seeingher in the arms of another man. Besides, he couldn't resist her pushyinvitation. Drunk or not, his name on her lips would go a long way to restoringhis humor."Honey, do you knowwho's with you? I needto hear you say my name.""Of course I know,silly." She giggledinanely. "It's Dick."He stiffened andtried to pull away, but she held fast. Her grip couldn't be broken withouthurting her, and that was out of the question."Tyler, I'm kidding." She stared up intohis eyes, dewy softness mixed with sultry invitation. Her needs were clear; shewanted him. But his needs were just as clear. Not this way. God knew how longit had been since he'd had a woman, andhere she was offering him every man's dream. But taking advantage of herdrunken state didn't sit well withhim. It wouldn't sit well withher, either, in the morning. He knew it, even if right now she didn't.He slowly began torise, halted again by her gripping arms. Tired of waiting for him to take theinitiative, Annie shocked him by lifting herself, twining her arms tighteraround his back, and fusing her lips onto his.She was sweet. Sosweet! Her inexperienced mouth caressed like a little girl. Small puckeredkisses zeroed in on his hunger. She struck at his nose, cheeks, lips, wherevershe could reach. And her wiggling body reached zones he'd forgotten were soquickly aroused. He closed his eyes, savoring her attempts at seduction. Obviouslyfrustrated by his lack of co-operation, Annie became more inventive. He guessedshe'd sensed himstalling, and so she doubled her efforts to get him involved in her love play.Arching her bodyfully, she pressed herself into him, and sinuously rubbed her breasts againsthis chest. Without breaking this rhythm, she secured her one leg over his andthrust her heat up to rub his hardness. Like a Venusflytrap, she'd engulfed him.Good intentions flew out the window. His hoarse voice whispered her name overand over as his restraint dwindled, then disappeared completely. When his lipscaptured her wandering mouth, he drained her passion, then felt it refill andoverflow. She panted. She groaned. And she whimpered his name in tune to hislitany of hers.She grabbed hishand, placed it over her breast, then with her guiding his fingers she forcedhim to surround the swollen mound. His lips soon followed his hands, and he breatheddeeply through the flimsy material over the exact spot that stood hard atattention. Her inexperience, overcome by the alcohol, disappeared. With bothhands, she held his head to her and whispered in his ear. "Oh, God! Tyler,that feels so good. Touch me."Her throaty voiceramped up his ardor, but he had to slow down or explode. He backed away andlooked down at her beautiful, perky nipples pushing against the silk of herdress, and then he searched her face. Sensing his eyes on her, her eyelashesswept upwards a fraction at a time, and he combusted fromthe fervent expression her smoky blues reflected. "Tyler, pleeasse!Don't stop. Kiss meagain. I love your kisses." Caught in the throes of passion, herbody undulated with each word. He watched as her mouth opened a fraction inorder to suck in her bottom lip so her teeth could bite down on the plumppinkish mound. Small hands rubbed his upper body but were not quite adventurousenough to slide lower. Still, instincts buried deep propelled her to again mashher hips against his. They'd fit together inthe same way a well-oiled gun fits into its holster. No doubt whatsoever. Whenthe moment came for him to slip inside her, into her wetness, it would be likecoming home at last. Fast losing control of the situation, and of hisconvictions, he tried to think. Heaven and hell's advocates soundedin his head."I need her." From his bad side!"I can't." Good side just hadto get his two cents in there."I bloody want hermore than my next breath." Come on, bad side!"It's not right." Gravelly-voicedidiot side? Where did she come from?

Devil and angelwarred with each other while he awaited the outcome—totally in supportof his hell-bent buddy. ***ÌýÌýÌý


ÌýÌýÌýÌý

***
See poll above! (if it's open on the poll results just click on Change Your VoteÌý to return it to the where you can vote!)



Available at Available at



Some authors have challengedthat it could be the cover of a book that will directly affect the sales. Idecided to try an experiment to see what you readers think of the cover of MyCheeky Angel , and whether or not the poll results will support what mysales have been.




When I first looked at the cover, I felt sopleased. It depicted the story perfectly, and I knew once the reader saw thebook, they would have a pretty good idea that the story inside was an upbeatromance. But then my preferences have always been to the light artwork ofyesterday rather than the darker edge we see everywhere today. The title wouldalso throw light on the theme and I felt the customers would know, that even thoughit listed as a paranormal, the tale would be light-hearted and the angel a funcharacter.





It's obvious that there's an upheaval notonly the way we can publish books today, which up till lately has always beenunder the strict dictatorship of the large publishing houses, but it hasaffected title and cover options also. Now that some authors have a lot more,if not all the control, we get to see what they want to write, and how theyvisualize their themes by their preferred cover selections.




Not long ago I entered the book in a covercontest and out of the over 200 voters, Cheeky Angel received only one vote.Didn't seem like a very positive outcome at all, so I've decided to askÌýforyour input.


Poll is at the top of the page.

If you want to make any comments on why you chose to vote a certain way, please do. I'm extremely interested in any ideas you might have -Ìýor any suggestions!!!

Thanks so much for your help.

Hugs,

Mimi

***


Hello everyone,


Thank you, Mimi, for having me on your blog. The Water Baby, ashort novel, is set in New Zealand, and is a spicy, contemporary love storybetween self-exiled Californian, Jasmine Davis, and hunky kiwi, Fraser Brook.


Jasmine left the US, intent on putting the past behind and making a newlife for herself with no personal complications. Determined to follow the ruleof not mixing business with pleasure, her plan goes awry when she meets FraserBrook � a man who ignores rules that get in the way of what he wants.


Compromised from their very first meeting, Jasmine finds her lifegetting more tangled by the minute, and the harder she tries to extricateherself from Fraser's influence, the more he entangles her. Does she eventuallysuccumb to his charms? Buy The Water Baby for only $2.99at Ìýto find theanswer.






Anexcerpt:


Jasmine floated on her back,and smiled as tension slowly leached from her limbs. With the sun caressing herskin, and the gentle rocking of the deliciously cool water, she closed her eyesand imagined listing the property for sale. The advertisement would read: Charmingstorybook cottage, in top location, lovingly restored to its former glory.Fairytale garden for kids, cats and dogs. Make your dream come true. PhoneJasmi-
Splash! Her pulse jumped. Whatwas that? Springing her eyelids open, she caught a streak of movement.
Twisting around, she shriekedas a man reared up inches away. Water sprayed like a geyser. He blinked, andshook his mop of dripping cocoa-brown curls in the manner of a large, energeticpuppy. She shrank away, covering her lacy bra with both arms and chokingopen-mouthed on the wave churned in his wake.
A pair of silver-green eyesregarded her beneath the sodden curls as she coughed, spluttered and gasped.Her face flamed as her legs frantically trod water, and she silently held thoseeyes � desperate to keep his gaze from wandering south.
"Hey little mermaid." His deepvoice complemented his square jaw and broad shoulders.
She assessed the expression onhis face. Not concerned or even irritable. More like amused. Annoyedwith the thought of him laughing at her, she snapped, "You gave me a heck of afright. Where did you come from? Who are you?"
He ignored her questions,merely raising one arched eyebrow and indicating in the direction of her chest."It's a bit late for modesty, isn't it?"
Her face burned afresh. "Howlong have you been here?" How long have you been watching me?
His eyes narrowed. "Uh-uh,I'll ask the questions. Who are you and what the hell gives you the right totrespass on my property?"
Jasmine's heart plummeted tothe bottom of the pool as panic surged through her. She stared, gulped andwhispered, "You're Fraser Brook?"






"An emotionalroller-coaster which had me smiling one minute and in tears the next."


Read more of thisbook at


Would anyone liketo write a review of The Water Baby? If so, please post youremail address in the Comments section and I'll send you a free copy.


Visit me at to read about myother books: French Kiss, Kiwi Kiss, and my new Romantic Intrigue Taming The Bad Boy.








Bio: I'm never quite sure what readers wish toknow about authors � feel free to ask me questions! I live in New Zealand withmy husband, and our sons both live in Seattle, USA. This pic is of me with my 3week old gorgeous grandson, Dean, when we visited Seattle last August.

***

The Versatile Blogger Award is an award that just keeps on giving. I'm soÌý honored to have received the award from the lovely Kathleen PatelÌýaÌýpeace loving fiction writer, whose books are fun to read, but always educate and contain a message.ÌýWhat makes this award so unique is interaction involved in accepting the award and ultimately passing it along to well deserving nominees.




Before I make the announcement for the future award winners, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the multi-talentedÌýKathleen. Thank you so much for following my blog and beingÌýsupportive. We are twitter pals now, and I'll be your faithful follower and retweeter!Ìý



Here are the official rules for the lucky recipients of "The Versatile Blogger Award":



1. Thank the award giver and link back to them in your blog. Thanks again

2. Share seven things about yourself.
Ìý
·ÌýMynickname is Mimi because, as a baby, my sister couldn't say Marion. ·ÌýI havea wonderful husband who makes me laugh, a grown son who makes me happy I'm aMom, and a niece who's so beautiful, she makes me envious.·ÌýÌýAnything my husband cooks is my favouritefood.·ÌýOkay -I admit I like myÌýhomemade perogiesÌýandÌýhomemade breadthe best - naturally, both full of carbsâ€�.sigh!! (see below for recipes)·ÌýI lovewriting 'funny stuff' and if the words crack me up - I know I'm onta something good!·ÌýI lovepeople!·ÌýI hatebigotry.


3. Pass this along to fifteen blogs that you enjoy.





















And so in closing, I just want to say thank you again and to congratulate the new winners!


Hugs,

Mimi




Light-hearted novellas, time-travel with a twist - Ìýfull of fun and romance! ÌýÌý




Ìý or Ìý







Ìý or Ìý






Ìý or Ìý

***

Mimi's Homemade Perogies


Filling:


Boil 4 med potatoes with salt. When they're ready, drain thewater and let them sit for a minute to release the steam. (Important or you'llhave a mushy mess.)

Shred (old style) cheddar cheese and have it ready to add tothe potatoes - while the potatoes are still hot, mash in the cheese with a bitof butter and salt and pepper. Use lots of cheese and do the old taste test. Ifit's flavourful - it's ready.

Let the cheese mixture cool! (I put mine in the fridge) Ifyou don't, you'll be sorry when you go to fill the perogies. (Trust me they'llstick)

Dough:

In a medium size bowl and put a couple of heaping cups offlour. Add salt.

Run the hot water and have a quart of milk nearby.

Run some water over the flour and then add again as muchmilk. Stir - just a little - to seehow the consistency is. Preferably, the dough should be sticky. Keep addingmore liquids (as much milk as water) so that when you stir the mixture, it'squite wet.Ìý (this is the secret to a gooddough…you should have it sticky when you put it on a floured counter and littleby little you'll add more flour until it feels like you know the dough shouldfeel.

Cut the dough into quarters and roll each part outseparately. Use lots of flour. Iwill emphasizeâ€�USE LOTS OF FLOUR and your dough will roll out really thin, (youwant nice thin dough so don't be afraid to roll it as much as necessary as it tends to shrink back. Ìý

I use a tin can (small size) to cut out rounds and I fillthem quite full. Fold one side to the other and pinch, making sure they'resealed. Then place the perogies on a floured cookie sheet and make layers usingwax paper.

Freeze now, or boil.

When they're fresh, they only take a minute to get to thetop of a pot of boiling, salted water. Only cook them another minute. Ìý2 minutes total. Don't overcook!(When they're frozen, they do take a bit longer.

Strain out waterÌýand put them in a buttered bowl

Topping:

In a small dish, microwave butter until it melts. Roll outsalted soda crackers and add the crumbs to the butter and stir. Use this tocoat the boiled perogies.

Then get a glass of DIET coke and enjoy the treat!
***

Mimi's Homemade BreadÌý

In a large bowl add:

4 cups of warm (not quite hot) water
1 tablespoon salt
4 tablespoons sugar

Stir to dissolve.

MeltÌý5 tablespoon shortening in Microwave and add only 4 tablespoons to the water, keeping one for later.

Add 2 cups of flour and stir into the water.

In next cup of flour, add 11/2 packages (1 full tablespoon)instant yeast ( IÌýbuy the 3 packet type of Quick-rise yeast) and stir it into the flour. Add to mixture.

From now on add 1 cup of flour at a time until the mixtureis hard to stir. Spoon it onto a floured counter and keep adding flour andkneading it in until the dough forms a ball and the stickiness is pretty wellgone. It should be smooth and well kneaded. Takes anywhere from 7-10 minutes.

Turn oven to a very low temp for a few minutes to warm itand then warm the large bowl (with hot water) where the bread will rise. Greasethe bowl with some of the left-over shortening and also grease the top of the bread so nohard crusts form on the outside of the dough.

Cover and let rise in the warm oven for 11/2 hour or until thedough has doubled in size.

Then punch the dough down, put it on a floured surface andcut it into 4 parts. Cover and let sit for 15 minutes.

Now, using a small amount of flour, shape the dough into bread or bunsand put into theÌýgreased waiting pans. Cover and put in warm oven again to let rise for anotherhour.

Cook at 350 for 25 to 30 minutes. Spread butter over top tosoften crust. Let sit on rack to cool and then enjoy!


***

ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý***

Despite a story inciting the news lately, about a man whoacted more like a villain than a hero - and has everyone questioning their ownlikely behaviour if in his position - I believe true heroes still exist.


As a romance author who dedicates a good portion of eachbook to a woman's dream man, I don't have to go back in time to look for thereal thing. I find examples all around me. In husbands and boyfriends who takeloving care of their women (and vice versa) because they want them to be happy.What about the father who hasn't had a decent coat for years because he figuresthe kids need new clothes more than he does.ÌýI know of a younger man who lives next door to an eighty-seven-year-oldwidow and drives her to church most Sundays, to the grocery store every week andto her doctor's appointments - no relative, just a good neighbour - in my book- a hero.


As often as we see a story that might have us questioning thekindness or bravery of men and women today, there are as many untold storiesthat prove heroism still lives. Because I wanted to confirm this theory, Iglanced through some of the other news items and found a recent story about aregular working man who risked his life to help a police office trying toarrest a vicious felon. Another of a homeless man who'd jumped into a freezingriver to rescue a drowning victim. And yet another, of ordinary folks runninginto a burning building with the sole intention of helping those still inside.


Hero status doesn't just belong to the male of the specieseither. There are some pretty cool females willing to put themselves in dangerto help others.


So, look around you and see if there is someone in yourworld who you would consider as a hero. Share your story. It would be upliftingfor all of us to hear them, help rebuild our confidence in our fellow man…ahhhperson.



NovellasÌý from The Vicarage bench Seriesï»�
Light-hearted, fun romance with a paranormal twist.�

Ìý&


� &


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ÌýLeave aÌýcomment forÌýour guest today along with your e-mail address and you will have a chance to win a free copy of the book featured on this blog. All your e-mail addresses will be automatically entered on my newsletter which will give you a chance to win a free copy of any of my books with each issue...which I only release when I have news!!
Hugs - Mimi




Ìý
Thefirst two books in the series are the adventures of twin sisters from theplanet Centauri, one turns out to be the queen while the other was raised as aslave after being kidnapped. The third book in the series is the story of twoof their friends who find they are the perfect match for each other.Yes,I'm still giving away a book. This is what you can say. Pleaseleave a comment. One lucky commenter will win a copy of Cynthia's book CENTAURITWILIGHT, Book 2 in the Centauri series. If the winner is in the US the bookwill be a paperback. International commenter's will receive an ebook, if theyshould be chosen.




ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý

Whatadvice do you have for other authors wanting to self-publish?
I think you should go for it.Ìý But make sure you do it right.Ìý Get a good cover, get an editor or at leasthave someone who can edit well read it for you.ÌýI read each of my books through 3 times before I give it in full to mycritique partners for beta reading.Ìý Ialso have other beta readers who read it before it gets published.
Doyou have critique partners?
I have the most amazing critiquepartners.Ìý They each have their strengthsand the are all incredibly talented writers.ÌýAll but one is currently published and that person will publish by theend of January.
ÌýWhat is your favorite dessert/food?
I love anything with chocolate, but myfavorite dessert is carrot cake.Ìý Mymother made the most amazing carrot cake with real cream cheese icing.Ìý It was to die for.Ìý
Howlikely are people you meet to end up in your next book?
It's not really very likely unless theyhave something that makes them stand out from the crowd.Ìý Some character trait that I can see when Imeet them.
Whatis most difficult for you to write?ÌýCharacters, conflict or emotions?ÌýWhy?
The hardest for me to write isconflict.Ìý I avoid conflict in my reallike as though it was the plague.Ìý So Itend to try and do that with my characters as well.Ìý Thank goodness for my critique group who are likean enforcer and make me put in the conflict the story needs.
Wasyour road to publication fraught with peril or a walk in the park?
Well it definitely wasn't a walk in thepark.Ìý I've been writing seriously, withthe goal of publication since 1990.Ìý It'sbeen a long hard process, that culminated with me publishing my books on myown.Ìý So I'd have to say it was fraughtwith peril.



BIOÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Cynthia Woolf was born in Denver, Colorado and raised in themountains west of Golden.Ìý She spent her early years running wild aroundthe mountain side with her friends.

Their closest neighbor was one quarter of a mile away, so her little brotherwas her playmate and her best friend.Ìý That fierce friendship lasted untilhis death in 2006.

Cynthia was and is an avid reader.Ìý Her mother was a librarian and broughtnew books home each week.Ìý This is where young Cynthia first got thestorytelling bug.Ìý She wrote her first story at the age of ten.Ìý Aromance about a little boy she liked at the time.

She worked her way through college and went to work full time straight aftergraduation and there was little time to write.Ìý Then in 1990 she and twofriends started a round robin writing a story about pirates.Ìý She foundthat she missed the writing and kept on with other stories.Ìý In 1992 shejoined Colorado Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America.ÌýUnfortunately, the loss of her job demanded the she not renew her membershipsand her writing stagnated for many years.

In 2000, she saw an ad in the paper for a writers conference being put on byCRW and decided she'd attend.Ìý One of her favorite authors, CatherineCoulter, was the keynote speaker.Ìý Cynthia was lucky enough to have a seatat Ms. Coulter's table at the luncheon and after talking with her, decided she neededto get back to her writing.Ìý She rejoined both CRW and RWA that day andhasn't looked back.

Cynthia credits her wonderfully supportive husband Jim and the great friendsshe's made at CRW for saving her sanity and allowing her to explore hercreativity.
TAME A WILD HEART from Amazon
CENTAURI DAWN from Amazon
CENTAURI TWILIGHT from Amazon


EXCERPTFROM CENTAURI MIDNIGHT
"Audra, please.Ìý You're my queen but you're also myfriend.Ìý You must grant me this lastrequest.Ìý Let me go after him."Ìý Tensign Kiti Dolana paced the beautifulsitting room.Ìý Bile rose in her throatthreatened to strangle her.Ìý Finally, shecollapsed into a chair it's soft cushions swallowing her as she sat across thesmall, highly polished and gleaming, coffee table from the Queen of Centauri,her friend.Ìý
The Queen, pregnant with triplets, herbeautifully distended tummy disallowing much frivolous movement, reclined onthe couch.Ìý She sat up to pour the teabut had trouble reaching the tea pot in the middle of the coffee table.Ìý "Kiti would you pour our tea, I'm a bit likea beached whale right now."Ìý Audra wasanything but a beached whale.Ìý Kiti knewthe colloquial term from her study of Earth.Ìý
Her queen was radiant.Ìý Her long, chestnut hair falling in waves toher waist was gathered on one side of her head.ÌýHer clear gray eyes shone brightÌýin her pale face.Ìý She wore abeautiful royal purple empire waisted dress that highlighted her pale features.Ìý She was beautiful.Ìý Kiti remembered a time, on their way back toCentauri from Earth, when she'd not thought so, because she was jealous.Ìý
That was before Audra's marriage toDarius and when she'd still be betrothed to Anton.Ìý Kiti had been in love with Anton, at leastshe thought she was, and was jealous of Audra.ÌýSome of the things she said were unkind, but Audra had seen them forwhat they were, jealousy and forgiven her the words.Ìý They were now the best of friends.ÌýÌý
Kiti poured the tea and continued tobeseech her queen.Ìý "Audra, you have tolet me go after him.Ìý He killed mybrother Joridan, his actions led to Anton being captured and tortured.Ìý I need to see they get justice, they deserveit."
"And you are sure it is only justice youseek?" Audra softly asked.
"Damn it, Audra."Ìý Kiti was up and pacing the room again.Ìý Her long black hair was tied in a high ponytail and swung back and forth with each step she took.Ìý The thick, plush carpet kept her boots fromclicking on the floor.Ìý "I'm begging youto let me go with Garrick Marcus.Ìý It'snot just revenge I need.Ìý I needclosure.Ìý I'm the one who should deliverTybold to the authorities.Ìý GarrickMarcus is the best captain in the fleet and I know Darius is sending him afterTybold.Ìý Joridan needs us both to avengehis death.Ìý To bring his murderer back toCentauri for justice to be served."
"Kiti, are you combat trained?Ìý We don't know what to expect from theProconians.Ìý By this time, Tybold couldhave convinced them we are conquerors and he's their only salvation.Ìý We don't know.Ìý It could be a suicide mission.Ìý I don't want to lose my best friend."Ìý She went on.Ìý"I know you're grieving.ÌýJoridan's loss and Lara's return has been very hard on you."
"Stop."ÌýKiti jumped up and started to pace again.Ìý "I know what my life has been like.Ìý I mourn the loss of Joridan life and Anton'scapture and torture by Slavarien.ÌýJoridan was my little brother.ÌýEven though he was a head taller than me he will always be my littlebrother.Ìý I still smell Joridan's scentin his room.Ìý Sometimes it's so freshit's like he just passed by."Ìý Her eyesfilled with tears, "I miss the closeness that Anton and I once shared but I donot bemoan him finding Lara.Ìý I'm veryhappy he found his lifemate.Ìý It wassomething he never thought to be able to do.ÌýAfter the torture that both Anton and Lara suffered at the hands of theSlavariens, it's amazing that they found each other.Ìý I wish I had a lifemate out there somewhere.
"Audra, I'm a historian andanthropologist, but first I'm Dragonera.ÌýOf course, I am combat trained.ÌýAll Dragonera are.Ìý We are theRoyal Guard.Ìý We are the best."
"Yes.ÌýYou're right, but I worry anyway.ÌýMust be my maternal instinct."ÌýAudra patted her belly.
"You know that the people of Procon arecenturies behind us technologically.Ìý I'mthe only person who can go on this mission that knows anything about theirculture."
"I don't know," Audra hesitated.
"Admit it.Ìý Garrick needs me."
"We don't interfere in the development ofother planets' civilizations.Ìý You knowthat."
"Tybold has already interfered.Ìý I say we'll be evening the odds for thetribes involved.Ìý And it's not as thoughProcon doesn't know we exist.Ìý Theyalready trade with other planets.Ìý Justbecause they're not our technological equals doesn't mean they aren'tadvanced."
Kiti saw Audra hesitate before sheanswered.Ìý "I must confer with Dariusbefore I can give you my answer."
At that moment Darius came in accompaniedby Garrick, Anton and Lara.Ìý The threemen were in their Dragonera uniforms as was Kiti.Ìý The only differences being the colorblocking.Ìý Darius and Garrick woreamethyst uniforms with cream colored sleeves, denoting their status as starshipCaptains.Ìý Darius' uniform also had acream colored stripe from the left shoulder to the waist, denoting that he wasCaptain of the Royal Guard.Ìý As a generalin the Royal Army, Anton's uniform was solid amethyst.Ìý Lara, Audra's twin sister, still had thetanned skin from someone who's spent too much time in the sun.Ìý She wore the House of Danexx royal colorslike everyone else did.Ìý Hers were anamethyst jumpsuit and long cream colored duster.Ìý Kiti's uniform was solid cream.Ìý Her rank as Tensign was denoted by a patch onher left arm.
Ìý"What do you need to discuss with me?" Dariusasked as he took his wife's arm and helped her to rise from the couch.Ìý She gave him a quick kiss.Ìý Darius rubbed her stomach then bent and said,"Hello, my children.Ìý Are you being niceto your mommy today?"
Kiti swore he expected an answer.
"If you don't quit that people are goingto think you're crazy," said Audra.
Darius laughed and kissed her belly.
"I am. Crazy in love with my wife."
Lara made gagging sounds.Ìý 'Will you two remember that you have anaudience?"
"All right.Ìý But you and Anton are just as bad as we are."Darius said to his soon to be twice over sister-in-law."
"Never," retorted Lara.Ìý "No one is as over the moons as you two.
"I don't know, I'm pretty much over themoons about you," said Anton waggling his eyebrows at her.
The banter was not aimed at Kiti.Ìý She didn't think the two couples evenremembered they were not alone.Ìý Kitiglanced at Garrick, who rolled his eyes at her.ÌýÌý "Audra, the mission."Ìý She reminded her queen tapping her wrist tohurry her.
"Oh yes.ÌýDarius, Kiti has requested to be assigned to go with Garrick to Procon,to apprehend Lord Tybold.Ìý I told her Iwould discuss it with you."
"I don't know if she will beneeded,"Ìý Darius responded.
Garrick spoke for the first time sinceentering the room.Ìý "I think ananthropologist would be very useful on this particular mission.Ìý Tensign Dolana would be a definite asset tome in bringing in Tybold."
"Thank you, Garrick. "Ìý Kiti was warmed by his words and agreed withhim one hundred percent.Ìý To her way ofthinking, this mission would only succeed with her help.Ìý No one could understand the Proconians betterthan she could.
"Very well," said Darius.Ìý "You will receive your orders tomorrow.Ìý In the mean time, can we eat dinner?Ìý I'm a starving man."

I have a question?
Does there seem to be a big swing to the dark side in theparanormal, contemporary and suspense books? I mean - it's to be expected thatthe vampire, zombie and other world creature stories will be bloody and gory, Iaccept that. But where are those light-hearted romances, the cutesy tales thatwere so endearing and popular not long ago?
Good heavens…even the covers seem to be more gloomy anddepressing.
Could it be the state of our economy, which reflects thispreponderance for grim tales?
Or is it just me?
After all, I write the funny, light-hearted style of romanceand am praying the readers still wants those type of books.
What do you think?
Leave me an answer to my question and your e-mailaddress and one of you will win a copy of your choice of book featured on thisblog. ÌýAll your e-mail addresses will be automatically entered on my newsletter which will give you a chance to win a free copy of any of my books with each issue...whichÌýI only release when I have news!!

Hugs Mimi


My Favorite story to date and newest release for The Vicarage Bench Series
Night Owl Choice


Available at Available at Available at


Excerpt:

Maybe it was the eagerness in her voice, or maybe just her words, but whatever she said made him smile. Up till then, he'd seemed like a stranger looking back at her. Then his smile changed everything. Unfortunately, it didn't last too long. But she'd seen enough and decided right away that he had a dear face. Not what one would call handsome, more like interesting. She'd bet that his full head of messy hair cut short and worn close to his head normally didn't look so scruffy. That wouldn't be his style at all. His piercing green eyes didn't have the same sparkle as his mother's. They were ruthless and compelling, slightly haughty and intense, and the shrewdest stare she'd ever come across. She felt as if he were trying to find her inside of him by staring into his own eyes. "Can you see me?" She teased. "I do believe I can. I went slightly crossed-eyed for a moment, and I have no doubt that was you sneaking a peek." When he grinned, dimples appeared on both sides of his mouth and created a whole different impression. This man devastated with his attractiveness, his charisma. Unequivocally, Abbie knew at that moment, not only had her spirit joined with his, but also her heart now faced a challenge. She'd never believed in love at first sight, more fool her. She shut down her corridor to him and curled up into a small ball lodged inside his body. This needed a great deal of thought. She had to talk herself out of this nonsense, and quickly.
1st in my new series Angels with AttitudeÌý


Available at Available at
Available at




Excerpt:
Every time he closed his eyes, a strange image of Annie in trouble took on such realistic tendencies it seemed surreal. Sick of his own company, Tyler decided a walk would do him a world of good, clear his head, and help to get his mind off his tomboy gone rogue. Once the idea appeared, it became a fixation. No choice, no dragging his feet, he had to get out of his apartment. Either he needed hallucination treatments or a curt, gravelly female had taken up residence in his brain and urged him to hurry and get his butt moving. The elevator, not ever on his floor, awaited him with the door open and no one else inside. He shivered. Strange and stranger! The ride down lasted only seconds. When it slowly opened, a nightmare unfolded. One look at his Annie clinging to her evening's escort and his rage superseded common sense. Without thought, he ripped her from the scumbag's groping fingers and shoved the conceited-looking, puffed-up character against the wall. All Tyler's six feet two inches of anger intimidated. He watched the coward evaluate, then shrink back. Within seconds the smooth prick spoke. "Anna had a bit too much to drink. I was seeing her safely home.""Not a problem. I'll take her up," he growled. By this time, Tyler had a supportive arm around the wobbly woman. He looked down at her. "Say bye-bye to your date...Anna." His spitting out her newly chosen name would have set worry bells ringing, if she'd been in her normal state of mind. Blitzed out of her head, she just jiggled her fingers and said, "Bye-bye, date." With everything happening so fast, Tyler knew Annie hadn't had a chance to fully appreciate the change in her situation. One minute she was leaning drunkenly against the slimy character whose hands were all over her body, while her unfocused eyes gazed at him adoringly. The next minute, Tyler had taken over.

Try your luck and be a winner! Enter the contest today.




This is a wonderful contest with the final date January 15th.

If you go toÌýNight Owl Reviews's Ìýwebsite and follow the directions, you will not only get a chance to view many blogs and websites that you might not have known existed, but you will also have a chanceÌýat winningÌýone of 100 prizes. These include a Kindle, Gift certificates for up to $100 and a multitude of books.
Just by answering questions where the answers have been left visible on each of the participating sites.
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My Favorite story to date and newest release for The Vicarage Bench Series



Ìý Night Owl Choice

Available at Available at Available at





Excerpt:
ÌýÌýÌýÌý Maybe it was the eagerness in her voice, or maybe just her words, but whatever she said made him smile. Up till then, he'd seemed like a stranger looking back at her. Then his smile changed everything. Unfortunately, it didn't last too long. But she'd seen enough and decided right away that he had a dear face. Not what one would call handsome, more like interesting. She'd bet that his full head of messy hair cut short and worn close to his head normally didn't look so scruffy. That wouldn't be his style at all. ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý His piercing green eyes didn't have the same sparkle as his mother's. They were ruthless and compelling, slightly haughty and intense, and the shrewdest stare she'd ever come across. She felt as if he were trying to find her inside of him by staring into his own eyes. ÌýÌýÌýÌý "Can you see me?" She teased. ÌýÌýÌýÌý "I do believe I can. I went slightly crossed-eyed for a moment, and I have no doubt that was you sneaking a peek."Ìý When he grinned, dimples appeared on both sides of his mouth and created a whole different impression. This man devastated with his attractiveness, his charisma.ÌýÌý ÌýÌýÌýÌý Unequivocally, Abbie knew at that moment, not only had her spirit joined with his, but also her heart now faced a challenge. She'd never believed in love at first sight, more fool her. She shut down her corridor to him and curled up into a small ball lodged inside his body. This needed a great deal of thought. She had to talk herself out of this nonsense, and quickly.




My new self-published book for the Angels with Attitude Series that I'm so proud of



Available at
Available at
Available at




Excerpt:


Every time he closed his eyes, a strange image of Annie in trouble took on such realistic tendencies it seemed surreal. Sick of his own company, Tyler decided a walk would do him a world of good, clear his head, and help to get his mind off his tomboy gone rogue. Once the idea appeared, it became a fixation. No choice, no dragging his feet, he had to get out of his apartment. Either he needed hallucination treatments or a curt, gravelly female had taken up residence in his brain and urged him to hurry and get his butt moving. The elevator, not ever on his floor, awaited him with the door open and no one else inside. He shivered. Strange and stranger! The ride down lasted only seconds. When it slowly opened, a nightmare unfolded. One look at his Annie clinging to her evening's escort and his rage superseded common sense. Without thought, he ripped her from the scumbag's groping fingers and shoved the conceited-looking, puffed-up character against the wall. All Tyler's six feet two inches of anger intimidated. He watched the coward evaluate, then shrink back. Within seconds the smooth prick spoke. "Anna had a bit too much to drink. I was seeing her safely home." "Not a problem. I'll take her up," he growled. By this time, Tyler had a supportive arm around the wobbly woman. He looked down at her. "Say bye-bye to your date...Anna." His spitting out her newly chosen name would have set worry bells ringing, if she'd been in her normal state of mind. Blitzed out of her head, she just jiggled her fingers and said, "Bye-bye, date." With everything happening so fast, Tyler knew Annie hadn't had a chance to fully appreciate the change in her situation. One minute she was leaning drunkenly against the slimy character whose hands were all over her body, while her unfocused eyes gazed at him adoringly. The next minute, Tyler had taken over. As the elevator doors closed, leaving Sergio shrugging off his disappointment, a fuming Tyler lifted Annie into his arms. At ease, Annie wrapped her arms around him, snuggled her face into his neck, and then sighed. His familiar expensive cologne, one of her gifts that he regularly used, seemed to soothe her. "I love how you smell." His anger fled the moment he became aware that she sniffed at him like a small kitten. His legs almost buckled when he felt the tip of her tongue lick him, and then press a tiny kiss over the wet spot. The groan started deep, frustration forcing it out, chasing away his righteous snit. At her door, he lowered her to her unsteady feet, but she refused to unwind her arms from around his neck. They clung, her body glued to his.