Friday, July 30, 2010

Review - Symmetry by Joyce Scarbrouch



Symmetry
Written by: Joyce Scarbrough
Fiction
Rated: Very Good (****)
Review by: Lisa Haselton

Jessica Cassady’s life has hit a couple of potholes. She loves her husband, but will he ever realize how self-centered he can be? Jessica is constantly pulling her hair out and starts to blame it on stress, especially when a simple phone call to her husband forces her life into turmoil. Symmetry is a story of discovery and relationships.

Jessica’s life may not be perfect, but it’s close. Her husband is handsome and even though he’s always admired by other women, he only has eyes for her. Jessica has never felt she’s measured up in her parents’ eyes and with her sister’s recent marriage, Jessica feels that point is even truer. Jessica needs space to make decisions about her future and time to research her hair pulling issue.

The separation from her husband lets Jessica discover some truths about herself and to put a name to her condition – trichotillomania. She moves outside her comfort zone for the first time in years, and enjoys the experiences and connections. But is it what she really wants?

Author Joyce Scarbrough knows how to bring out the details of relationships. She’s able to show the mixed emotions and confusing feelings people experience when in a relationship. She finds a nice balance between the good and the bad, the pros and cons, as it were, when a person is deciding whether the stay or leave. By including a real affliction, trichotillomania, she’s expanding her readers’ horizons by sharing a true-to-her experience. The book is fiction, but the facts about TTM are real. Scarbrough uses TTM as conflict in the story, and it works well. Too much detail could cause readers to close the book, but her writing style keeps the conflicts and positive points, symmetrical.

Scarbrough is an intelligent Southern woman weary of seeing herself and her peers portrayed in books and movies as either post-antebellum debutantes or barefoot hillbillies a la Daisy Duke, so all her heroines are smart, unpretentious women who refuse to be anyone but themselves. Scarbrough has lived all her life in southern Alabama. She's the mother of three gifted children, and she's been married for 26 years to the love of her life. Symmetry is her third novel. She’s at work on her fourth.

I enjoyed Symmetry for the writing. The characters pulled me right in and kept me engaged. I felt for Jessica and her turmoil. Learning about TTM, which I had no knowledge of before opening the book, was a bonus. It’s a recommended read for those interested in romance, those who are somehow touched by trichotillomania, and those who simply enjoy a well-told story told.


Title: Symmetry
Author: Joyce Scarbrough
Publisher: L&L Dreamspell
ISBN: 978-1-60318-146-4
Pages: 210
Price: $15.95

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Interview with author Arlene Crenshaw - BK Walker Books virtual book tour



As I continue to host the BK Walker Books Authors Promoting Authors virtual blog tour, today I welcome author Arlene Crenshaw.

Welcome, Arlene!

Please tell us about your current release, Twelve Roses for Uretta.
This is a true story of a mother’s struggle with domestic violence while trying to raise her eight children. This story is told through the eyes of her daughter (Erica) who carried the burden of not being able to help her mother. She was just too young; Erica also had her own secret that she was afraid to tell her mother, she carried that burden also. Erica was never able to tell her mother about her secret before her untimely death.

What inspired you to write this book?
I felt that I needed to tell the story of me and my mother. The story brought out things about me that I had carried within my soul for most of my life, by writing this story I was able to empty out a lot of emotions that tormented the majority of my life. Writing this book also helped me to move on with life and also helped me heal within. I had cried most of my life, 47 years to be exact, but now by writing this book helped to get it all out of my system. I understand now what happened wasn’t my fault, and the burden I carried all those years was just too much for a child, then a teenager, to have to deal with that I brought into my adulthood that I suffered with for so many years.

What exciting story are you working on next?
I'm really excited about my next book. It will be called Hidden Closets Book of Short Stories. It’s about secrets that many people have hidden about themselves that they don’t want anyone to know about. There’s a lot of suspense, drama, mystery within this book. My second book will be out at the end of this month.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Everyone throughout my life has loved for me to tell them stories, sometimes I would just make up a story and people would be so intrigued with what I was telling them. They would always say I was in the wrong career which was medical. It wasn’t until I lost my job that I had the time to sit down to write, that’s when this writing for me took on a whole new life and a well deserved one for me.

Do you write full-time? If so, what's your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
Now that I’ve been unemployed for over a year now, I do write full-time. I always start my day with a prayer to God and within my prayer, I ask for a quote or to be steered toward a quote that I can write down and put on Blogger and Facebook where I post daily. I call my post “My quote of the day” which I have done for years, not always on Blogger and Facebook, but everyday on my job or I would give a quote to a friend daily.

After that!!! I write all day like I’m at work and I take 2 15-minute breaks. Just like I would if I were working a regular job and a 45-minute lunch break. Only difference is when I was working, I only got 30 minutes for lunch, but, now that I’m working for myself, I deserve 45 minutes sometimes even 1 hour. Lol…

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Writing while listening to sounds of the ocean, or rain.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A physiologist. Why? Because I always would sit and listen to people no matter who they were and people for some reason would always be drawn to me and they would always tell me their stories about what was going on in their lives. My mother always used to say to me, “You never met a stranger you didn’t want to listen to.” I would tell my mother I like listening to people their interesting.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
Sometimes it may seem like a lifetime before you really understand your true calling in life. But when it finally clicks, it just may even surprise you.

I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be a writer. For some reason I can write and tell stories all day long. I still have a problem with punctuation just like I did in school, but the more I write, the better I get. Who would have thought I would be a writer? Not me, and I surely know not my 7th grade teacher. English was my worst subject but my teacher did tell me that one day it would all make sense.

Thank you for your time today, Arlene, and I wish you well on the blog tour and with your books.


Readers, leave a comment to be entered into a drawing to win one of several gifts from promoter of this VBT, BK Walker. Gifts include: a $25 Visa Gift Card, book light,a free-of-charge virtual book tour, or one writing package which includes a journal, pen, book light, and book marker.

My next guest is August 2 - Mike Dolan

Monday, July 26, 2010

Live chat/interview with dark fiction author Kathryn Meyer Griffith 8/1/10



The Writer's Chatroom presents Kathryn Meyer Griffith.

WHEN?

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Eastern USA Time.....7-9 PM

Not sure what time that is wherever in the world you are? http://www.worldtimeserver.com

WHERE?

The Writers Chatroom at: http://www.writerschatroom.com/Enter.htm

Scroll down to the Java box. It may take a moment to load. Type in the name you wish to be known by, and click Login. No password needed.

Please note: The chatroom is only open for regularly scheduled chats.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Interview with author Karen Kostlivy - BK Walker Books virtual book tour



As I continue to host the BK Walker Books Authors Promoting Authors virtual blog tour, today I welcome author Karen Kostlivy.

Welcome, Karen!

Please tell us about your current release, Cyber Writers and the Zebra of Life.
Mason Witt, a skateboarding American teenager, catapults himself into the greatest adventure of his life after reading about the plight of a new Cyber Writer from Africa. Lutalo knew he would come so he sent Mason an urgent plea for help. His village has lost its precious Zebra of Life -- and his father has gone missing in the pursuit of the evil men who stole it. Here begins this thrilling adventure of two boys, a smart-talking panther, and an amazing zebra that sustains life.

What inspired you to write this book?
I realized I wanted to be a writer when I wrote parts of a story I created years ago for an English assignment. The story would not leave me no matter how much I tried to flush it from my mind, it just kept coming back to me. It was like I had no other choice but to write, so I began to write.

What exciting story are you working on next?
I’m currently working on books two and three in the Cyber Writers series. Since the series has educational components, I conduct a lot of research about each country, and I also have interviews with kids and adults that have visited or lived in the country where the story will take place.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The moment I first considered myself to be a writer was when my publisher sent me my contract and I was referenced as the author. I looked at the contract in disbelief and shock. That’s when it hit me; I was a writer.

Do you write full-time? If so, what's your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I wish I could write full time. I wear too many hats to have that luxury. I work for a marketing company and I volunteer for a couple of non-profit organizations. I have cut back a little on both work and volunteering so I can promote Cyber Writers and the Zebra of Life and sneak in some writing. I’m always writing, even if it is on index cards or a notebook.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
You might call this a quirk, but I call it a major annoyance that really bugs me. I make my family leave the house very early in the morning when I’m ready to sit behind the computer to write. I don’t understand why I make them leave, but they need to be gone or I can’t write. The odd thing is that my outline and characters are already created in my notebook, just waiting for me to transfer them to the computer. Can you say weirdo?…LOL

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a singer or a teacher. The odd thing is I can’t sing or carry a tune. As for teaching, I used to substitute teach in between contracts and I’m married a teacher.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
First, I would like to thank you for having me as a guest today. Second, I truly appreciate any feedback from my readers. Good or bad, that is how I can grow as a writer. Also, if a reader has any recommendations of where they would like to see the character Mason travel to one day please let me know. It is fun receiving ideas from my readers on where they would like to see Mason to visit. My website has all my contact information on it as well as an area just for kids.

Once again, thank you for having me as a guest today.


Leave a comment to be entered into a drawing to win one of several gifts from promoter of this VBT, BK Walker. Gifts include: a $25 Visa Gift Card, book light,a free-of-charge virtual book tour, or one writing package which includes a journal, pen, book light, and book marker.

My next guest for the blog tour is July 28 - Arlene Crenshaw

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Interview with Dallas Woodburn, author and founder of Write On! For Literacy - Part 3



I am pleased to welcome Dallas Wooburn back to Reviews and Interview. Dallas is a prolific writer and is founder of a non-profit called Write On! For Literacy which she started in her teens.

This is the third of 3 parts as a way to introduce the readers of Reviews and Interviews to this inspiring woman.

Dallas, thank you for visiting Reviews and Interviews again.

In May, we introduced you to readers. In June you told us about your non-profit organization, Write On! For Literacy. Today we're going to have you talk about writing.

Do you have a set time when you write, or just whenever you get the urge?
I try to write every single day – I am most productive and happy when I have an established routine. Even if I don’t feel like writing, I tell myself to write for just fifteen or twenty minutes, and usually by the end of that time I am in the groove and write for longer.

My goal is to write 1,000 words every day. I am a night owl, so it is not unusual to find me at my computer writing after midnight, when the world is quiet and I am alone with my thoughts.

Have you ever had writer's block, and if so how do you get rid of it?
One of the best things for me to do when I am facing writer’s block is to step back from the story and get away from the computer a bit. I love to go volunteer at schools and teach writing activities to kids. This is one of my favorite activities – it gives me great joy and fulfillment. Whenever I am feeling discouraged or creatively drained, going to schools and speaking to students inevitably recharges my batteries and gets me excited about writing again. So much energy and enthusiasm! It’s contagious!

I also frequently post tips for busting through writer’s block on my blog, http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com.

How do you invent your characters?
Usually my characters start with a kernel of a personal experience or emotion that I am going through, and then pretty quickly this spins away from me and becomes a character separate from myself. Even if the eventual story is going to be written in third person, I usually like to write at least a couple pages in first person from the character’s perspective to get a sense of his or her voice. I don’t censor myself during this process – I just let the words flow freely and see what voice develops for the character.

What would you say is the neatest thing you know?
I am continually impressed and inspired by the resilience, beauty, and generosity in people. Also, by the human ability to change and grow and thrive despite adversity and setbacks.

Do you prefer keyboard or pen when you write?
I used to be strictly a keyboard girl, but lately I’ve been writing freehand in big spiral notebooks in coffeeshops. I’ve found writing with pen and paper makes me feel less inhibited and more creative. In the evening, I go home and transcribe everything from my notebook to the computer, and do my first round of editing as I type things in. The process is working well for me right now.

What do you recommend to aspiring authors?
Write every day, read as much as you can, and enjoy the process! As John Wooden says, “The journey is better than the inn.” In addition, publishing my books has taught me not to be afraid to take risks, and to take the initiative when you have an idea and make it happen yourself rather than letting fear and doubt make you wait. Because, why wait? Take small steps towards your dreams, and small steps can snowball into amazingly big opportunities!

Dallas, I has been a pleasure getting to know you through these interviews. Perhaps you'll come back for a visit in the future to share more of your accomplishments with us. :)

Monday, July 19, 2010

Live chat/interview with handwriting forensics expert/author Sheila Lowe 7/25/10



The Writer's Chatroom presents Sheila Lowe.

WHEN?

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Eastern USA Time.....7-9 PM

Not sure what time that is wherever in the world you are? http://www.worldtimeserver.com

WHERE?

The Writers Chatroom at: http://www.writerschatroom.com/Enter.htm

Scroll down to the Java box. It may take a moment to load. Type in the name you wish to be known by, and click Login. No password needed.

Please note: The chatroom is only open for regularly scheduled chats.

Interview with author Tasha Wright - BK Walker Books virtual book tour



Welcome, Readers, to Reviews and Interviews' interview with Tasha Wright as she tours with BK Walker Books', Authors Promoting Authors virtual book tour. Here is a listing of the full schedule.

Tasha, thank you for stopping by today.

Please tell us about your current release, When a Tattered Past Catches You.
Tough willed, strong as nails Willa will do whatever it takes to provide for her family even if that meant putting her life in danger or on hold. Living the street life meant not allowing anything or anyone to get close enough to hurt or destroy her. But, after the death of her mother she is forced to return home and confront a past she tried to erase from her memory.

As Willa confronts a tragic past, she also has to confront something else, her long lost love, Damon. Living the street life and becoming the head woman in charge was something Willa did with ease, but there was always something or someone missing in her life. Will Willa let down her guard and allow Damon back into her life again or will she continue to live the street life?

What inspired you to write this book?
I wanted to write about a woman who could be very strong and intelligent, but still not know how to deal with the emotional aspect of life. I wanted to show her struggle and how she overcame this obstacle.

What exciting story are you working on next?
When I write I tend to have three things going on at once. I haven’t quite decided which I will go with, but there is one story that is calling out to me would be a love triangle. The main character and her lover both have other relationships but they can’t seem to let the other go. This is a recipe for danger. Will people survive, overcome or fall into a pit of destruction?

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I considered myself a writer when I accomplished the most difficult task in the writing process. Finishing the book! Many people start or attempt but rarely do they finish. Publishing is a major accomplishment.

Do you write full-time? If so, what's your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
Although I would love to be a full-time writer, I still work full-time and I am a full-time college student as well. It is a task to maintain all of the things I need to do but when you are as passionate as I am about writing, you will always find the time.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
As I write, I act out each person in the way I write them. So, I will speak in different manners and embody each character. With all the writing I do I could be an actress. If someone walked in, I am sure I would be committed.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I began writing short stories when I was sixteen. As I continued to develop and people would read what I was writing I would be asked to write more and soon I had written a complete book. Although, it was not on the level of this book I set a goal that I wanted to be a writer and learn everything I could about it. I am doing what I always wanted to do.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I would just like to thank everyone who has taken the time to read my book. I enjoy creating something that will take people away from their current world and allow them time to be in a totally different zone. I hope that I live up to all your expectations of what you all believe to be great work! Thank you again and again! It is because you I am able to do what I LIVE to do.

Where can folks learn more about you and your writing?
My Web site is: http://authortashawright.webs.com

Readers, leave a comment to be entered into a drawing to win one of several gifts from promoter of this VBT, BK Walker. Gifts include: a $25 Visa Gift Card, book light,a free-of-charge virtual book tour, or one writing package which includes a journal, pen, book light, and book marker.

My next guest for the tour is July 23 – Karen Kotslivy.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Interview with author Lorrie Struiff - BK Walker virtual book tour



As I continue to host the BK Walker Books Authors Promoting Authors virtual blog tour, today I welcome author Lorrie Struiff.

Welcome, Lorrie!

Hello Lisa,

It’s such a pleasure to be here today. Thank you for inviting me.

Please tell us about your current release.
Gypsy Crystal is a paranormal/thriller/romance that takes place in my area. Rita is a homicide detective of pure Roma heritage. Her mother, Anna, is a great seer and together with Anna’s brother, Dragus, they own The Gypsy Tea Room within a themed touristy mall.

Because of Rita’s chosen profession, Anna has given Rita a star-shaped crystal amulet to wear for protection, one that has been handed down through their maternal bloodline.

The amulet has mystical powers. Other than warning Rita of danger, it also allows her to see through a corpse’s dead eyes, the last image he saw before death. Rita keeps the amulet’s power a secret, only her family and Chief Lipinski know of her ability.

A serial killer the newspapers have dubbed “The Ripper” invades her town targeting prostitutes. Suddenly, Rita’s amulet stops working. Confused, she seeks her mother’s council. She receives no satisfactory answers as to why.

FBI Agent Matt Boulet has followed the killer’s trail of kills north from New Orleans and leads the task force. He is keeping secrets from the force and gives them odd orders. Rita is distrustful of Matt, but can’t fight her growing attraction to the man.

When Anna tells Rita and Matt more about the lore of her clan, Rita is shocked and finds the news hard to swallow.

Together, using gypsy magic, they hunt The Ripper on the most dangerous manhunt of their lives.

What inspired you to write this book?
All the buzz about the paranormal field. You read it, see it in the movies and on TV.
I write in many genres and I like to spread my wings. When I met a gypsy fortune teller at an impromptu lunch date, I made use of her talents. She was a very nice lady and the session proved to be fun. She sort of stuck in my head. That night I did a little research on the Romani people and their folklore. I got sucked right in. I was enrapt with what wonderful people of the earth they are and the mysticism surrounding their origins. The fortune teller became Anna, Rita’s mother, in my novella. And let me tell you folks, Anna has a strong antenna with her ESP. So much so that it annoys Rita at times.

What exciting story are you working on next?
I have a few “starts” in the works. I may put them aside for a bit. I’d hate to let all those hours of research into the Romani go to waste. Like most authors I’ll probably write another gypsy tale since I’m so entrenched into the history and folklore.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
That is a hard question. I only considered myself a writer when I sold my first short story. I believe anyone can write if they choose to, be it diary, plays, thoughts, stories. But do you consider yourself a writer for just writing? My own personal opinion is, I think the true test is, do others enjoy your writing? Is it good enough that an editor thinks a target readership will enjoy the story and the way it is written? When that happened, when my first story was picked up—a horror by the way—then I considered myself a writer. I think that was around eight years ago.

Do you write full-time? If so, what's your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I don’t have a day job per se. But, I do have a full time job of family and care-giving for a family member. As all know, care-giving is not an easy job. It’s a constant up and down, doctor visits, feeding, and all the little tasks that go into caring for an older loved one.

So, I write in spurts. I do like to find a solid two hours a day to sit and concentrate, but real life has a habit of interfering. And to be honest, I’m too tired at night to get the mental synapses firing just right. So, it’s write when I can.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Moi? Have quirks? None. Absolutely none. Do you believe me?

To be honest—again—I probably have plenty, but I don’t know what they are. Is it that I consume gallons of tea while I write? Or when I reach a difficult scene that I can’t nail, I get out of my chair and walk around the house muttering to myself? Hmm. I guess we can call them quirks.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
First a motorcycle cop. I think I was about five years old. I thought motorcycles were cool. Then I wanted to be a cowboy. At that little older age, horses had become cool. After graduating high school, and being all grown up, lol, I wanted to get into the ballroom dancing field. I did. And that was really cool.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I want to tell the readers that without my wonderful critique partners, my getting published would not have become a reality. How wonderful they are to be brutally honest, offer their fresh eyes, and to give me so much help and direction. I only hope I do as much for them.

Let me offer a blurb and excerpt of Gypsy Crystal to tempt your interest.

Rita Moldova’s best-kept secret, a crystal amulet that shows her the last image a victim had seen when they died and has helped propel her career as a homicide detective – until prostitutes start dropping.

A ritual killer dubbed the Ripper by the media is terrorizing her town and it’s Rita’s job to help end his killing spree. The problem – Rita’s mystical amulet, passed down through her Roma bloodline, has failed for the first time in memory to do its job – and it’s making it a real bitch for Rita to do hers.

To make matters worse, the FBI has sent in hunky agent, Matt Boulet, to lead the case – and Rita finds herself attracted to him.

When Rita visits her mother – a gifted seer in her own right – and her uncle to glean what she can about the history of the amulet and the lore of their clan, she learns much more than she bargained for, and the truth is too much for her to swallow.

As the investigation continues, Rita learns she can’t deny the lore of the ancients, or her growing feelings for Matt Boulet.


Excerpt and part of the first page.

Detective Rita Moldova peeked around the corner to make sure the hallway was empty. Making a quick right turn, she slipped into the autopsy lab to have a few minutes alone with the body. She tucked her white shirt tighter into her jeans and zipped her windbreaker to stay warm in the chilly room. The harsh odor of formaldehyde hit her nostrils and stung her throat.

Her heart twisted at the sight of the young, auburn-haired woman lying on the stainless steel table. A white sheet covered her to the navel; bruises blemished the once pretty face. Contusions marred the pallid skin from elbow to shoulder. The gash on the front of her neck gaped, exposing open veins and torn tissue.

Rita flipped her thick, dark braid back over her shoulder, snapped on one latex glove, leaned over the corpse, and peeled back an eyelid. In her bare hand, she clasped a star-shaped crystal hanging from the gold chain around her neck, an endowment from her maternal Roma bloodline. The crystal heated in her palm, warm energy pulsing up her arm to her shoulder. The face captured in the victim’s eye coalesced and stared back. Rita drew in a sharp breath. Bobby Driscoll! She had known him since high school, and now he worked as a uniform in her precinct. What the hell was going on?


For more info, and to read the fab reviews about Gypsy Crystal, please visit my website at http://struiff.wordpress.com/

Gypsy Crystal is available in print and e-book formats at Amazon.

Please join me on my next tour stop at http://www.paulazone.blogdrive.com on July 19th. I’d love to see you there.



Lorrie Unites-Struiff lives in West Mifflin, twenty minutes by parkway to downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She has two grown daughters who have left the nest but not her heart.

Lorrie is the founder of the Waterfront Writer’s Workshop in her area, and after seven years has passed the baton to allow her more time for writing. She has many short stories published and is now working on her next project.

Thank you for your time today, Lorrie, and sharing so much with the readers.

Readers, leave a comment to be entered into a drawing to win one of several gifts from promoter of this VBT, BK Walker. Gifts include: a $25 Visa Gift Card, book light,a free-of-charge virtual book tour, or one writing package which includes a journal, pen, book light, and book marker.

My next visitor for this virtual book tour is Tasha Nicole on July 19.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Live chat/interview with mystery author Julie Hyzy 7/18/10



The Writer's Chatroom presents Julie Hyzy.

WHEN?

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Eastern USA Time.....7-9 PM

Not sure what time that is wherever in the world you are? http://www.worldtimeserver.com

WHERE?

The Writers Chatroom at: http://www.writerschatroom.com/Enter.htm

Scroll down to the Java box. It may take a moment to load. Type in the name you wish to be known by, and click Login. No password needed.

Please note: The chatroom is only open for regularly scheduled chats.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Interview with author Cate Masters - BK Walker Books virtual book tour



As I continue to host the BK Walker Books Authors Promoting Authors virtual blog tour, today I welcome author Cate Masters.

Welcome, Cate!

Please tell us about your current release.
My historical adventure romance novel, Angels, Sinners and Madmen, is due out July 27 from Freya’s Bower. It’s set in 1850s Key West, in the heyday of the wreckers, who salvaged ships that wrecked on the reef beyond Key West, earning them their name.

Here’s the story blurb: What happens in Key West, stays in Key West. Especially in 1856, when men outnumber women by ten to one. Wrecker Sam Langhorne came to Key West eight years earlier to forget his ruined engagement. When he rescues Livvie Collins from a watery grave, he’s swept away by her beauty and spirit. He’s sworn off love, but is soon captivated by Livvie’s wit–and her determination to remain single.

The death of Livvie’s father leaves her no other option than to sail to New Orleans to live with her brother Wendell. Though she hopes to support herself by writing novels, she’s sure Wendell will try to soon marry her off, and is determined to experience life to its fullest before reaching New Orleans.

Sam is handsome and attentive, constantly surprising her with his intelligence and his interest in current literature and happenings. She gives herself to him in a night of passion so she can know the true emotion at least once in her life. But can she save herself after she arrives in New Orleans?

What inspired you to write this book?
A few years ago, my family vacationed at Key West, Florida. The island’s surrounded by a clear aqua-green sea and is so steeped in history, its streets almost seem like characters. While visiting a maritime museum, a story flashed in my head, and I spent the next two days in the Key West library copying old articles and letters while my family went parasailing and snorkeling. I knew I wouldn’t be getting back there any time soon, so finding that information felt like unearthing sunken treasure. I was fascinated by the history of the wreckers, men who salvaged wrecked ships long before any diving equipment had been invented.

What exciting story are you working on next?
On August 7, Eternal Press will release a Native American historical novel, Follow the Stars Home. Surfacing, a contemporary fantasy novel, will also release in August, from Whiskey Creek Press. I’m awaiting release dates for two other contemporary novels. In the meantime, I keep writing. About a dozen stories are vying for attention right now, but I’m finishing up another contemporary fantasy novel.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I never had an “a ha” moment where I said, “I am a writer.” I’ve always felt most in my element while writing, so it just seemed a natural thing to do. While my kids were little, I wrote sporadically, but now that they’re grown, I’m finally able to concentrate on it, and it’s been wonderful.

Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
Although I have a day job, I do write full time, and consider it my real job. It can be a challenge to balance life with writing because my muse throws so many ideas at me, it’s sometimes tough to keep up. My TBR pile keeps growing because I love to read and discover new authors, too. I also love gardening and photography, but most other hobbies I’ve sacrificed to have more writing time.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I don’t know that I have a quirk, necessarily. It can take me awhile to get into the flow of a story sometimes. I need quiet as opposed to music in order to concentrate.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A journalist or editor. I knew writing was my main strength. I didn’t discover fiction until my twenties, but after that, never looked back.

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
Here’s the trailer for Angels, Sinners and Madmen:


I love to hear from readers! Leave a comment anytime on my blog at http://catemasters.blogspot.com, or email me at: cate.masters AT gmail.com.
Thanks for having me as a guest today Lisa! It’s been a pleasure.

Thanks for stopping by today, Cate and sharing so much with us.


Readers, leave a comment to be entered into a drawing to win one of several gifts from promoter of this VBT, BK Walker. Gifts include: a $25 Visa Gift Card, book light,a free-of-charge virtual book tour, or one writing package which includes a journal, pen, book light, and book marker.

My next guest for the blog tour is July 15 - Lorrie Struiff

Monday, July 5, 2010

Live chat/interview with Writer/Producer/Director Jack Olesker - 7/11/10



The Writer's Chatroom presents Jack Olesker.

WHEN?

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Eastern USA Time.....7-9 PM

Not sure what time that is wherever in the world you are? http://www.worldtimeserver.com

WHERE?

The Writers Chatroom at: http://www.writerschatroom.com/Enter.htm

Scroll down to the Java box. It may take a moment to load. Type in the name you wish to be known by, and click Login. No password needed.

Please note: The chatroom is only open for regularly scheduled chats.