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Available atÌýVideo available to see on


I'd like to welcome Lani Wendt Young on my blog today and show off her winning cover for her debut release...Telesa. If you go to her Amazon page, you'll see there were 4 covers for this book and they're all awesome. This book today ranked as #631 in the Kindle store with 55 - 5 star reviews.


Book blurb:

When Leila moves to her new home, all she wants is a family, a place to belong. Instead she discovers the local ancient myths of the telesa spirit women are more than just scary stories. The more she finds out about her heritage, the more sinister her new home turns out to be. Embraced by a Covenant Sisterhood of earth's elemental guardians - what will Leila choose? Her fiery birthright as a telesa? Or will she choose the boy who offers her his heart? Daniel - stamped with the distinctive tattoo markings of a noble Pacific warrior and willing to risk everything for the chance to be with her. Can their love stand against the Covenant Keeper?

A thriller-romance with a difference. If you enjoyed Twilight, then you will be enthralled by Telesa as it blends the richness of Pacific mythology into a contemporary young adult love story that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.


A little about the author...
I was born and raised in Samoa, in the South Pacific. I went to university in the USA and New Zealand, studying English Literature, Women's Studies and Education. Back in Samoa I worked as a secondary school English teacher for 7 years and did lots of writing in between for the local newspaper and for myself. My short fiction has been published in Samoa, NZ, Australia and the UK. My collection of short stories "Sleepless in Samoa" won the 2011 USP Press Fiction Award. My story 'Beast that Came from the Sea' was one of 24 Winners in the 2010 Commonwealth Short Story Competition and has been professionally recorded and broadcast in over 50 countries. I also write stories for children that are used in primary school reading programs.In 2009 I was commissioned to research and write the narrative non-fiction book ' about the devastating tsunami which hit Samoa, American Samoa and the islands of Northern Tonga. The book was funded by the Australian Govt Aid program and all book sale profits go back to tsunami survivors who were interviewed for the record. My book '' is the first in a YA fantasy/romance/thriller series. I'm married to Darren Young (who is probably the most patient and most hottest man alive) and we have five children ranging in age from 4 to 16yrs. We now live in New Zealand where I try very hard never to leave my hermit cave. I blog as a slightly demented Domestic Goddess at

STEALING MERCYÌýavailable on, Ìýfor most electronic readers...paperback available also.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free e-book copy!


A girl disguised as a boy.
A hero wondering why he's in love with a lad in breeches.
A villain with a brothel to fill.
Serving murder, mayhem and pies, Stealing Mercy is a romantic adventure set in 1889—when the city of Seattle burns.
Reviews for Stealing Mercy
New author Kristy Tate brings a wicked sense of humor and a fast-paced storyline to her tale of a feisty 1880s piemaker who flees an enemy in New York and finds happiness--along with danger--in Seattle. You can't help rooting for Mercy Faye, who flaunts convention and flings herself into peril, determined to save young women forced to work in a brothel. Her secrets form a barrier between her and the appealing Trent Michaels, but love has a way of breaching the gap. A charming debut! Jacqueline Diamond
This was a fun read. Kristy Tate did a great job of weaving in the historical details so seamlessly that you get a rich sense of place without a history lesson. Mercy, the main character, is spunky and too headstrong for her own good but it makes for an enjoyable read. I always enjoy a good romance and this is definitely a good romance.
WHY I LIKE TO WRITE - by Kristy Tate Elizabeth George once said that she writes to stay sane. I do that, too. I also do it to keep everyone around me sane.

Writing keeps me from obsessing. Here's me when I'm not writing: Carol drops by with a pan of brownies. She looks like a teenager in that halter top. She says, "I brought these for your husband to thank him for helping me fix that broken window." I say thank you, but inside I'm thinking I really wish she'd wear more clothes. I wonder what she was wearing when Larry was at her house, for how long was that? I can't compare myself to her—I had six kids and she has a dog. Maybe my abs would look like that if I had countless hours to spend at the gym. Does she work out at the same gym as Larry? Why does she call him all the time? He doesn't even like brownies. But, I love them. I bet she knows that. She knows that I'm going to eat this entire pan of brownies because now I'm so depressed and one or two or five brownies isn't going to matter because I'm going to be divorced and single and fat. I better call Larry, although I just talked to him and he'll be home for lunch in twenty minutes, I need to hear his voice.

Here's me when I'm writing: the doorbell rings but I don't hear it because I'm deep into my story. Somehow Mercy has to stop Eloise from going on a drive with horrid Mr. Steele. What can she do—should she confide in Eloise? In the real world, my dog is pawing at me. No. Eloise is a blabber mouth. She can't be trusted. My dog knows someone has come to the door and she pulls at my sock with her teeth. I shake her off, but she's so annoying that I have to investigate. Someone has left brownies on my front porch with a thank you note. It's from Carol, that darling girl from across the street. I consider the brownies and inspiration hits�Mercy will bake Eloise a pie laced with a draught that will make her sleep through her rendezvous with Steele. I put the brownies on the counter and save them for when Larry comes home for lunch. I hurry back to Mercy, Eloise and Mr. Steele, wondering how to make a sleeping draught.
(FYI- Neighbor Carol is fictional, used to make a point about my own lunacy and not a commentary on my highly respectable, modestly clothed and admirable neighbors or my good husband who always lets me eat more than my fair share of brownies.)

Writing gives me someplace to put my head. As a mom, I do a lot of mindless things—driving, stirring, ironing, cleaning toilets—and while I'm doing these mindless tasks, it's nice to have something to think about (other than my neighbor's halter top.) I also love research. It's like a treasure hunt that just keeps going. The internet is an endless source of information and if I can't find what I need there, I try to think of people who might know and I call and ask them. No one has ever been annoyed. People love to believe that they're experts and when I call with a question, they're always happy to chat.

Writing gives me hope. Remember how I said that as a mom I do a lot of mindless things? I don't really enjoy most of them. I do them because they have to be done, but I'd really rather not iron, clean toilets and mop floors. I'd like to pay someone else to do those things, but since my husband makes several dollars an hour and I make pennies, I can't pay someone to do those mindless chores that must be done. It wouldn't be fair. I've promised myself that when I'm making several dollars an hour that I'll hire a chore person. I hope to someday make enough with my writing to justify that expense.

Writing gives me places to go. Remember how I said I love research? This summer I spent a day in Seattle visiting all the places that Laine and Ian would go. I walked through the neighborhood on Queen Anne Hill and took pictures of the turn of the century mansions. I stopped at Kerry Park and watched the boats in the harbor. And then I went to the University of Washington's library, because that's what Laine does in chapter four. I imagined her running down the steps and bumping into the girl with the smoothie. It's like spending the day with very good friends.

Writing gives me insight. I like to think I'm sensitive and intuitive to those around me, but when it comes to my own psyche, I'm clueless. Being a baby born late in my parent's life, I grew up in a house full of teenagers and adults. If I ever lost my temper, I was subjected to ridicule. (Angry or not, I was almost always subjected to ridicule, but that's a different post.) I learned to shut down my emotions and I'm pretty good at masking and avoiding them. Writing brings them to the forefront. I'll unconsciously do things like name annoying characters after annoying people. I'll usually catch the real life and fictional connections on the rewrite and make the necessary changes, because I'm sensitive enough to know it's unkind and unwise to hurt even annoying people's feelings.
ÌýExcerpt: CHAPTER 1 New York, New York December, 1888 New York City's night noises seeped through the wall chinks and window: the jingle of horse harnesses, the stomping of hooves, the mournful howl of a dog, but one noise, a noise that didn't belong, jarred Mercy awake. A creak on the stairs that led to her apartment. The third from the top, five steps past Mr. Bidwell's door. Only those wishing to reach her home crossed that step. She never entertained visitors in the tiny attic; she wasn't expecting company. Lying in bed, she held her breath while the unwelcome guest paused. The walls were thin, the door as substantial as paper, the lock inconsequential. Her thoughts raced and her body shook. A shock of cold hit when she slipped from the bedding, the wooden floor felt like ice beneath her feet. The embers in the grate had burnt to a smolder and her shivering had as much to do with cold as with fear. Mercy padded through the doorway to the sitting room. Dying coals in the potbelly stove cast an orange glow and shadows loomed large. Grabbing a fire poker from the hearth, she waited for a knock on the door. She tried to think of an innocent reason for a neighbor to call, an emergency or crisis in which she could assist, but when no knock came, she crept behind the pie safe stocked with the previous day's unsold pies and pastries. Stars winked through the window and Mercy wondered if their pale light could penetrate her chiffon shift. She felt naked, alone, and friendless. She could call out. Let the visitor know she was awake, alert and fire poker armed. Perhaps someone on the street below would hear, but would they come to her aid? Her only neighbor, Mr. Bidwell, as old as Satan and twice as mean, would never stir from his bed for her. As she so often did, Mercy missed her father and longed for family. The splintering wood shattered the air as the lock gave way. Across the room, a mirror, tarnished and misty, gave a wavy reflection of the opening door. Mercy slid a fraction lower behind the pie safe. The odors of the pies mingled with her own smell of fear. She could feel the panic spilling out of her like a cloud that blurred her vision. In the mirror she saw first a boot and then a thigh. Then Mr. Steele, his face a study of lust and cruelty, stood in the semi-darkness. The moonlight glistened on the six inch knife blade in his gloved hand. Mercy choked on a sour tasting sob. Suitors don't carry knives. Mr. Steele pushed the door open more, inviting in a breeze that circulated through the room. She knew why she'd been attracted to him. He looked and moved like royalty. His dark hair curled away from his forehead and his lean muscles rippled beneath his breeches. She thought of his laughter, the lilt of his voice when he asked if he could call, the gleam in his eye when she'd accepted his gift. Mercy fingered the silver charm, a four leaf clover that he'd given her. She'd tied it with a ribbon and wore it around her neck. Why hadn't she taken it off when she'd denied his suit? When had she become suspicious of his flattery? Why was she not surprised to find him in her room past midnight wielding a knife? Of course, he'd been angry and insulted that a mere shop girl would reject his favors. Impoverished girls without families and connections should fawn over a handsome, wealthy and prominent man such as Steele, but Mercy wasn't typical, and she wasn't as impoverished one might suppose. And so when Mr. Steele had invited her on a voyage to South America without proposing marriage, she'd turned him down. Rumors whispered that Mr. Steele had also invited her friend Belle on such a voyage, before Belle had disappeared. Mercy held her breath as Steele passed the pie safe, and then stopped, as if thinking. Mustering strength from the muscles that spent long hours kneading dough and beating eggs, gathering courage grown from burying first her mother and then her father, Mercy shoved the pie safe and it gave way with a creak and shudder. The safe caught Mr. Steele on the shoulder and he stumbled under the assault of the swinging doors and sailing pies. Apple, cherries, peaches, the sweet cinnamony odors of Faye's wares pelted Mr. Steele. He danced in the pastry goop and landed hard on one knee. In a different circumstance, she'd have laughed at his abandoned dignity and awkward bobbling, but now she stepped into the fallen pastries with her mouth in a stern line, her anger as hot as fire. One blow from the poker sent him to the floor. A second blow brought his arms over his head. With the third he shuddered, fell face first into the smashed pastries and then went still. When she stopped beating him her arms were shaking and her breath ragged. Blood oozed from behind his ear. His body sprawled in the spilt pies; his face pressed against the floorboards. She nudged him with the poker and he didn't stir. For a long moment she stood above him, waiting for a sign of life. Her heart raced as she considered her options. The police? Would they believe her plea of self defense? She tried to imagine herself in a court of law, pitted against the wealthy and prominent Mr. Steele. He lay motionless in a mess of stewed fruit and crust. A smashed, oozing cherry clung to his eyebrow. And then she noticed papers protruding from his jacket pocket. It looked like passage fare and she considered it with a hammering heart. Squatting beside him, she drew the papers loose, her fingers shaking so badly the papers caused a noisy breeze. A silver key slipped from the packet to the floor and landed with a ping. The skeleton key had a curlicue top with embossed leaves swirling around the words Lucky Island. The papers were first class passage to Seattle. It seemed Mr. Steele had been undeterred from the voyage he'd proposed. The boat left at first light. Seattle. She couldn't. She had an aunt in Seattle. She mustn't. Silly Tilly, her father had called his sister. Mercy hadn't met her aunt, but Silly Tilly always remembered Mercy's birthday. Why not go? Mercy turned her head away from the tiny sitting room and looked out the window to the river while hastily drawn plans formed in her mind. Perhaps Lucky Island was in the Puget Sound. It sounded more fortuitous than Faye's Bakery off Elm. Would her aunt take her in? Mercy had written Tilly of her father's death, but hadn't, as yet, heard a reply. Perhaps an invitation was already in the mail. Mercy went to the wardrobe and tossed through her dresses, nothing seemed practical. What did one wear for flight? She caught sight of her father's trunk and nursed an idea as she drew out her father's clothes. The pants, well worn and loose, she slipped on and then tucked into her boots. She rolled the sleeves of the cotton work shirt and shrugged into a boiled wool coat. She tugged at the belt holding up her father's pants and took a deep breath in an effort to restore the calm she'd lost the moment she heard the boot on the stairs. The jacket made her warm and the faint smell of leather and shoeshine she always associated with her father gave her courage. It felt odd and freeing to move without the cumbrance of skirts and petticoats. She kept one eye on Mr. Steele as she packed the knapsack: her father's watch, her mother's bible, a bag of gold coins, a loaf of barley bread. She sat down at the table where she'd taken her solitary meals and she struggled to control her shaking hands. One pinned the paper and the other grasped the quill. Her handwriting looked spidery, the ink blotchy. A splash of ink stained her father's denim work shirt, but Mercy didn't care. To whom it may concern, I, Mercy Faye, have taken my life on the night of December 15, 1888, she wrote, but she mentally added, to Seattle. She left the note on her unmade bed. She snuck a glance at the blood still seeping from the man's temple and fought the bile rising in her throat as she squatted and pulled out a locked trunk from under her bed. Her shivering increased, making it difficult for her fingers to work the key. Quickly, she rifled through her mother's things which smelled of must, neglect and a lingering hint of lavender. Forgive me, Mama, she thought, when she found the velvet bag containing the Bren jewels. Not trusting the sapphires in the knapsack, she tucked the bag next to her heart beneath the ink-stained shirt. Then she went to the safe where she kept the shop's proceeds. Perhaps someone, most likely her landlord, would wonder, but who would question the scant means she left behind? The coins seemed to weigh a hundred pounds and they jingled like a tambourine in her father's pockets. Since her father's death four months prior, there'd been times when Mercy contemplated selling the jewels, but the bakery had become increasingly successful. Mercy took a deep breath, inhaling the warm pastry smells that permeated her life. She would miss the shop, and it would only be a few hours until her customers would miss her. She pictured Mr. Lester, impatient for his muffin and coffee, Mrs. Nicole, eager for her biscuits. The customers would wander away, wondering what had happened to their supply of baked goods. Eventually her landlord would bang on the door, demanding rent, fair compensation. Would he find Mr. Steele? Two hats hung on the hook by the door, a simple straw affair and summer bonnet that she wore walking. Mercy tucked bonnet beneath her arm, shouldered the knapsack and then bade a silent goodbye to the only home she'd ever known. Then she felt it. A shift in the air. She stopped, listened and heard movement. Mr. Steele flinched
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You can find Kristy at and she loves visitors toÌýdrop by. In fact I'm her guest today and would love to see youÌý - and just so you know - a comment will give you chance to win a free copy of My Cheeky Angel.

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Available at
Available at Available at Available at Available at Night Owl Choice



I have a question�
Today I wanted to ask you all a question that I don't know the answer to myself. I mean, I know how I feel, but I don't know if others feel the same way.
Lately, I've been chosen on many sites for one or another of my books to win a contest.A good example is in the case of Predators and Editors; my name is up for best author for the year



Also, one of my books Together for Christmas is listed under romance books as best book of the year.


Last week, Together for Christmas was chosen on TBR as one of the best of the month and again there was a vote. (I came in 3rd.)

Going back to November, My Cheeky Angel was chosen on iBook Buzz and I put a lot of time and energy to win that contest. I asked all my personal friends, writing pals and followers from Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ and LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to vote. ÌýSince I received 360 votes, I was stoked and didn't let it worry me. I mean, obviously someone else had more links and put in more time. (I came in 2nd there I believe - stopped checking once I'd gotten too far behind 1st.)


So my question to you is - should a busy author spend time on garnering votes to win these kinds of contests? What importance should we put into these gratifying strokes to ones ego? Will it pay off in sales?


Before I end this blog, I just wanted to say that whenever I can help another by taking a few minutes and voting for them, I'm happy to do it. So, if you ever do need my vote, just ask.


Okay to get to my question. Have any of you experienced this and what was your decision?
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ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý

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I am featuring R.S. Guthrie on my blog today because heÌýhas recentlyÌýreleased his new book calledÌýLost. If it's as good as his last book, we're in for a treat!



Who couldn't use a new Kindle Fire, particularly if it were FREE ?




IÌýhave recently releasedÌýL O S T, the second book in my Clan of MacAulay seriesÌýand decided it would be in the holiday spirit to give away a brand new Fire. All a person has to do in order to be entered in the drawing is purchase either one of my books ( or L O S T) and email me a copy of the receipt here.Available at


Black Beast is current at 99 cents and L O S T will be premiering at 99 cents as well, at least through the first month of the New Year!

Available at ÌýÌýI've had to move the release date for L O S T out to New Year's Day (release no book before its time)---so to give readers time to buy the new one and have a chance at the Kindle, the drawing will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 3 PM MST!The big question from people has been:
If I purchase both books, do I get two entries in the drawing? YES! Absolutely. Just send both receipts, and you've got two chances! (Those who purchased Black Beast during the Black Friday promo already have two chancesÌý in the drawing---and those Black Friday participants who also purchase L O S T and send that receipt will have a THIRD!)Oh, and to lessen the risk of unscrupulous entries, you must also answer the following question (which can only be answered by reading the beginning of Chapter 4, second sentence---don't worry, no spoilers): What is the last name of Detec tive Bobby Mac's wife, Isabel? (Read Terms and Conditions for giveaway .)


L O S T
L O S T is the sequel to Black Beast, the 5-Star debut novel in the Clan of MacAulay series, and is set to release digitally on January 1st, 2012.

Denver Detective Bobby Mac returns in this intense horror/thriller, set in the northern panhandle wilderness of Idaho. After receiving a phone call from his brother, the Chief of Police in Rocky Gap, Idaho, Bobby Mac travels north to assist in the investigation surrounding two gruesome murders and the abduction of an eleven year-old girl.

These two seasoned cops---estranged brothers reunited---will bring all of their experience to bear in a case that threatens not only the safety of a small town, but also the sacred lineage of a family of heroes.



Black Beast --- The original!
Black Beast is the first in a series of Clan of MacAulay novels featuring Denver Detective Bobby Macaulay. Bobby Mac has faced down a truckload of tragedy over recent years. The death of his partner; the loss of his own leg in the line of duty; the companionship of his beloved wife to cancer; his faith in God to his inner demons.
After the man who ruined his leg and killed his first partner is executed, Macaulay becomes the lead detective investigating the Sloan's Lake murders. The method of killing in this double-homicide is so heinous it leads Macaulay and his partner down an ever-darkening path--one that must be traversed if they are to discover the evil forces behind the slaughter.
Just when Bobby Mac is questioning the very career that has been his salvation, he will discover a heroic history buried within his own family roots: The Clan MacAulay--a deep family lineage of protectors at the very core of a millenniums-long war against unimaginable evil.
"Kudos to R.S. Guthrie!! I started reading Black Beast and from the first chapter
I couldn't wait to find out where the story would lead -- a real pager-turner full of
suspense and intrigue."
Becky Illson-Skinner, Mystery Writers Unite
"R.S. Guthrie is a marvelous storyteller...The development of his characters is awesome.
You feel you've known 'Bobby Mac' all your life."
Kathleen Hagburg, co-author of Getting Into the Zone,
a Course and Workbook For The Mental Game.
"[Black Beast] establishes Guthrie as a bona fide talent."
Beth Elisa Harris, author of the literary blockbuster Vision.

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I've just been informed that Together for Christmas has been chosen as one of TBR's books of the month......so therefore, I needÌývotes please.It's just a click away...








Together for Christmas... ...is the holiday book you'll want to read this season.It'll make you laugh and cry, and at the end, it'll make you sigh!!
I've just gotten a wonderful 5 star review from and would be proud for you to read it.
Another great review from

Night Owl Choice
ÌýExcerpt:
ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý 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.


Available at Available at Available at
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2012 - A new Year!



Will this be the New Year I'm praying for? The one where a lot of people find out about my books and want to read them. The year where my sales hit the double and triple digits each day so that I feel that my dreams have finally come true.

Unlike many people, I've been blessed, because I love the work I do. Dreaming up new plots, building my characters from vague, unknown individuals to people I learn to laugh with - and adore. Creating conflicts where those same individuals have to screw up a little like we all do in real life ,and then learn from their mistakes…like we all do in real life!!

So with this thought in mind, I'm praying for this year to be the one. The one that when friends ask me, "when did your career actually take off?" I can say. Oh it was in 2012. My favorite year! I remember it well!

And as much as I hope this for myself, I also have the same wish for each and every one of you. That this will be the year you've all been praying for.


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For this New Years Giveaway Blog Hop (see side panel) I will be happy to present the lucky winner with a $15 Wild Rose Press Gift certificate. All youÌýneed to leave a comment and your e-mail address.

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Got great news just now!ÌýSeems my New Year's prayer is starting a bit early. My Cheeky AngelÌý just got a fabulous so I thought I'd add it here for you all to read in case you're looking for a wonderful $.99 read. (see book cover on left side - just click on cover to get to the Amazon page )


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There's a wonderful contest on at where you have a choice of book covers ( My cheeky Angel included) and the first prize is $150 for a gift certificate for Amazon if you choose a cover and leave a comment. There's other ways to earn points to have a better chance to win so read Shannon's blurb and good luck!


*Happy*New*Year!!

I've just been informed that Together for Christmas has been chosen as one of TBR's books of the month......so therefore, I need your vote.It's just a click away...











Together for Christmas... ...is the holiday book you'll want to read this season.It'll make you laugh and cry, and at the end, it'll make you sigh!!
I've just gotten a wonderful 5 star review from and would be proud for you to read it.

Another great review from 
�








Night Owl Choice
Available at Available at Available at


ÌýÌýÌýÌý Today I wanted to blog about the publisher who gave me my first chance to see my name on a book cover. ÌýThe Wild Rose Press - (where Romance blooms) is a wonderful romance site of both e-published and paperback romances. They call their the garden and you'll see why if you take some time to wander around. They have hundreds of authors writing for many different genres. Ìý
ÌýÌýÌýÌý Personally, I can vouch for the wonderful treatment I received when I first started sending my manuscripts to them for The Vicarage Bench Series. My editor was a sweetheart who led me through the processes and taught me so much along the journey.ÌýÌýTherefore if you are an author looking for a safe place to send your work, or a reader who loves romance and wants the assurance that the books you buy are well edited and professionally produced, then this is theÌýpublisher for you.

In fact, I believe in these wonderful book so much that I've offered a $100 Wild Rose gift certificate in the Night Owl contest ( see the link above) as my personal prize offering.
ÌýÌýÌýÌý The Wild Rose PressÌýhas everything you could possibly wantÌý- Free Reads, YA, Contemporary, Historical, Suspense, Paranormal, Erotic Romance, Holiday Titles, Time Travel, Multicultural, Books in Series, Novellas, and Short Stories - so please come and check outÌýour garden.



In May, 2006 - The Wild Rose Press opened its doors and the website, soon to be called "the garden", went live. With the power of the internet, within days romance writers literally all over the world were beginning to talk about another new publisher that opened its doors. Along with the talk of another new publisher, was the inevitable talk of how long they would last. Still, some authors were willing to take a chance on us and sent in their manuscript. They were pleasantly surprised to find that this publisher was different. The Wild Rose Press had a mission to make publishing a more open and friendly business. TWRP believed that a truly successful book was born of the teamwork among author, editor and publisher. Soon, the term "growing" writers was being associated with this different type of publisher.
Five years later, with over 1200 titles and a stable of solid quality authors, TWRP holds firm to its mission of growing writers and being a "kinder gentler publisher". Rejection letters, although a necessary part of any author's world are warm and encouraging. The purpose of our rejection letters aren't to discourage a budding writer but rather to help them find the clues to unlocking the mystery that takes a manuscript from rejection to publication.
The Wild Rose Press short stories and full length novels can be downloaded to your computer, or any other portable reading device. Visit our FAQ section to find the best format for your reader. Our full length books are also available in print format and can be purchased from our website.
ÌýWhether you write short stories or full length novels; whether you write sweet and sassy or hot and spicy - there's a place for you here in the garden. Why don't you stay and visit for a while. Bask in the warmth of our words while you wander around our website and see where you best fit. When you feel you're ready to submit, review our guidelines and send your work in. Then sit back, take a deep breath and remember it's not the destination but the journey and writing is the most magical journey of all.
Keep blooming and growing and thank you for stopping by our garden.
Owners - Rhonda and RJ


Anyone who leaves a comment along with their e-mail adress can be chosen to win a free copy of Together for Christmas

Hugs Mimi

Together for Christmas
I've just gotten a wonderful 5 star review from and would be proud for you to read it.
Another great review from


Available at Available at Available at

Night Owl Choice

Special Moments...

This is the time of the year when we all become so busy that we sometimes forget what this season is about. Recently, I received an e-mail that clutched at me, and made me take notice. It was about a violinist playing his instrument in the Washington, DC Metro Station. During the time he played, approximately 2,000 people went through the area, most of them on their way to work. One or two stopped to listen for a short while, an older man the longest. A few people threw money, but the ones who acknowledged him the most were the little ones with busy parents who forced them along so they couldn't stay and listen.
After 1 hour he finished playing and silence took over, no applause, no recognition and a very few dollars for his trouble. No one knew that this man called Joshua Bell was one of the greatest violinists in the world, who played some of the most intricate pieces ever written for a violin, and this day he played on an instrument worth $3.5 million dollars.Ìý


The Washington Post had organized this experiment to answer this question. In a commonplace environment, at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty and stop to appreciate it? It raised the uncertainty - if we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the world's best musicians, playing some of the finest music ever written, on one of the most beautiful instruments ever made - how many other things are we missing?

The thought scares me a little. I get so caught up in my writing, editing, promoting, and blogging - in fact - all the many time consuming tasks most authors have, that I must admit, it's easy to let the world float on by. But should we? And at this time of the year especially? So my request to all you wonderful readers is to stop for a while, enjoy the special moments the season of Yuletide brings us and spoil yourself with pleasures and joy.

Until we meet again in the New Year, I wish you and your families all - a warm, wonderful, happy Christmas. And lots and lots of chocolate!


I'll be giving away 3 free e-copies of my Christmas Book
Together for Christmas as long as you leave a comment and your e-mail address. Thanks for joing the Mid-Winters Eve Hop.

Looking for the perfect gift for the romance reader on your Christmas list?

If you are, Together for Christmas is just what your want.

Read the back page blurb and excerpt on the bottom of The Vicarage Bench Page above.




Available at Available at Available at
I've just gotten a wonderful 5 star review from and would be proud for you to read it.
Another great review from


Night Owl Choice

Step #2 - of my thirteen promotional steps.
Website � This was my first endeavor into trying to promote myself and my books, and since I want to be truthful, when I'd started in the business, I was basically a coward when it came to technological challenges, I hired a wonderful web mistress () who not only set up my website, but has looked after that area of my work right from the beginning.
A is a personal and important kind of a home base where an author can begin to show the world just who she is. Because I was technically challenged on the computer, kinda lazy and scared stupid, I paid a professional to build me a website. I found it to be a wonderful place where I could send friends, readers and industry contacts to find out about myÌýwork and about me personally. All of my books can be found there with buy buttons, and there are free reads, contact information and even an ongoing contest. It's a lovely website and it makes me very proud. Therefore, I've never regretted this decision and for the first few years it served me well.
One of the positives about this choice was that my webmistress did all the work. I'd send her the updates periodically, and they'd magically appear. For someone like me who wanted to get my books written without having to use energy for anything else, this seemed like a wise decision, and it was at the time.Ìý
But as we all know, the need to promote became paramount for my career, and I began to learn much more about how things worked. I'd found I could get around on the computer and the Internet a lot better. Let's face it, this type of work forces us to take steps we never thought we would or could, and pretty soon I felt I needed to have more of a hands-on place to give me more personal contact with the public. A place that I controlled�.a blog!
More about that in Step #12

Looking for the perfect gift for the romance reader on your Christmas list?
If you are, Together for Christmas is just what your want.
Read the back page blurb and excerptÌýon the bottom ofÌýThe Vicarage Bench Page above.


Available at Available at Available at
I've just gotten a wonderful 5 star review from and would be proud for you to read it.





Step #1 - of my thirteen promotional steps


I guess the very first thing I did after writing my first book was to look for a writer's group in my area. Thankfully, my research took me straight to the Romance Writers of America and, much to my delight, I found the Vancouver Island Chapter of Romance Writers of America. Without the guidance of others like me, I'd still be floundering around and wondering who to turn to and what to do next. All authors need support from their peers, and let me tell you, the input from their collective knowledge was invaluable.

In my last post I described the 13 steps I took to promote my work. Joining a writing group was #1 and maybe, for me, the most important of all. Right from the beginning, I met a lovely woman who is now a very close friend. She and I have formed an alliance of critique partner, brainstorm mate and supporter during the good times and bad. We all need that special someone who takes your writing seriously and is working toward the same goals. If you're lucky, you may have a family who understands and will be there when your manuscript isn't quite jelling, but they can only go so far into your world.

Workshops and classes that most groups present are also invaluable for an author trying to learn her craft. After all, we can't expect to know everything about the profession without input from others who are having the same experiences or who are now published and have already gone through rejections and learning curves that we all eventually travel. It's wonderful when a question arises and you're only an e-mail away from getting an answer.

I not only joined the closest RWA (Romance Writer's of America) chapter, but while befriending someone on Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ, lo and behold, if I didn't find a member of a local writing group that I didn't even know existed. I joined them as well and it has been a wonderfully positive experience. I've met great new friends, quite a few published writers and others struggling that are very supportive.Ìý
Ìý




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I'm very proud of theÌý5 star review from TBR - Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ




13ÌýSteps I took to Promote My Work:


1. I guess the very first thing I did after writing my first book was to look for a writer's group in my area. Thankfully, my research took me straight to the Romance Writers of America and, much to my delight, I found the (VIC-RWA) Without the guidance of others like me, I'd still be floundering around and wondering who to turn to and what to do next. All authors need support from their peers, and let me tell you, the input from their collective knowledge was invaluable.

2. Website � This was my first endeavor into trying to promote myself and my books, and since I want to be truthful, when I'd started in the business, I was basically a coward when it came to technological challenges, I hired a wonderful web mistress () who not only set up my website, but has looked after that area of my work right from the beginning.

3. Newsletter � Soon after my website was up and running, I asked Rae what were her suggestions about the best promotional tactics. She suggested starting up a newsletter. Her idea was that anyone who signs onto your newsletter is interested in what's happening to you, and they will stay with you as long as you don't inundate them with too much 'yada yada' (my words) about inconsequential nothings � write when you have news! This has been one of my best-loved choices. Shamelessly, I started the newsletter using all my personal friends names, and then we set it up on my that anyone who wants to hear from me can enter their e-mail address. It's lovely to see new people every time I send out another blurb, which I only do when I actually have something super to tell them (new contracts, books being released, contest wins, etc.)

4. Facebook � Does it work? Are there authors who don't have a page? Not sure that I get a lot of sales through this forum, but I must tell you, it is a great way to keep in touch with others. Just wish I had more time to spend there.

5. Twitter � About six months ago, I decided that would be one of the best ways to get news out to the big wide social-media world, and so I worked really hard, gave up hours a day and started trying to build my followers. At that time, I had approximately 400 followers, and I am now over the 2000 mark. Again, was it worth all the hours I put into it, the effort it took and the time away from my writing? I did meet wonderful people and wouldn't give up knowing these new friends for anything in the world. So, yes it was worth it. And the proof came when just recently "My Cheeky Angel" the book I self-pubbed and released in September was chosen as one of five best paranormal books of the month, and I was able to turn to my friends on twitter where I know a great many of my votes came from.

6. Romance sites � About this time I went crazy looking for as many romance sites as I could find. I signed up for All Romance, Novel Sisterhood, Love Romance Café, Rites of Romance Reviews, Authors Den, Book Rix, you name it � I'm there. And I determined that they all have one thing in common. If you don't interact often, they just won't be of much help � and sadly, so much to do � so little time!

7. Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ â€� Again, I have to admit to taking on Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ with a lot of enthusiasm, which did wane after a while. It's time consuming for an author - but well worth while. Because as a reader, and I admit to being a reading freak, it's a wonderful place to find others who like the same kind of books as you. I've met some of my favorite people here, people who I now consider friends, and therefore I try and spend as much time as I can in keeping in touch with them.

8. LinkedIn � When I first became aware of this medium of promotion, it was because a friend had invited me to join. Being that I'm always crazy-busy and tend to dive in before reading rules carefully, I joined and the next thing I knew, I had given them access to my whole e-mail list who then received invitations on my behalf. Took me a while to get myself out of that mess, and I will say here, that the contact at was so kind and helpful. On that site, I've probably met more authors, like me, who are just trying to survive and make a few sales and it's been one of my preferred places to be.

9. Wild Rose Press � Once I became published with , I found a wonderful support team on their loops—other authors who were in the same predicament as myself. We try and help each other keep our spirits up through rejections, bad reviews, and even personal traumas. And, we're also there to cheer on the good news. Unfortunately, like everything else, there just isn't enough time to keep in touch daily. I wished there was for they are a great bunch.

10. Savvy Authors � Again, this is another site I have to peek in on periodically. It's a great place to share news of a blog you've written or if you're a guest with someone else. The writers here are supportive and will interact with you as long as you reciprocate. As on any of the loops, if you don't give � you won't get! But sadly…not a lot of time!

11. Guest blog � I love to be a guest and tried hard to get on as many blogs as I could handle. I do believe that if enough people visit the page, it can result in sales…with a good excerpt and a well-written post, that is. Writing new blurbs for each of these opportunities takes a lot of time and effort, but it is a way to get out of your own zone and in front of strangers—hopefully readers looking for a new author to follow. It also helps you to meet bloggers who love to support you and will go out of their way. But there is one very important drawback and uses up the sand in your timer. Those blogs have to be promoted on your loops, facebook, twitter, etc so there will be people to come and read them. And they need to be attended so you can keep up with the comments.

12. Your own Blogsite � This was my latest attempt of promoting my books. (I know! Why wasn't it my first!?) I just started up my Blogspot in October and couldn't…ahhh believe that amount of traffic that ended up there. So, now I'm thinking � did I do this wrong? Should my blog have been the first step in getting my books out 'there'? I'm thinking probably YES!!! Today a blog is such a personal way to interact with readers, that it's a must for all authors who feel they can handle the extra work. Of course, to my credit, I probably couldn't have handled the technical aspects a few years ago when I first started in the business. But now…I have a back-list of books, I'm much more computer savvy to the point where I self-pubbed the 1st in my series Angels with Attitude, and I've even made a trailer for my newest release Together for Christmas. See how far I've come? I've upgraded from DUHH I can't do that to I'll figure it out somehow! And you can do the same.

13. Trailers � My latest step into the world of advertising was to make my own trailer for my latest release for The Vicarage Bench Series "Together for Christmas". You can see it here on this blog. For me, this was a huge step forward because I had no idea about the creative world of photos and what to do with them except to be able to download them from my digital camera. But How-to videos on U-tube are the most wonderful inventions, and between Windows Live Movie Maker, stubbornness and 12 tries, the movie is up on � not perfect but the next one will be better. The best part…it was free!!

So my friends, whatever you decide to use as promotional avenues, and in whatever order, please understand one important and absolute fact � you need really well written books to promote. So take the time to become a good writer. Take the workshops and courses to help you get published, and then believe in yourself.

And…the best advice I can offer you in this business is to follow the Golden Rule � do unto others� I wish you all the best!

Visit with me anytime at [email protected] or say 'Hi' when you see me popping up on any of the fun sites!