by Christine | Observations
Today I’m welcoming Alanna Lucas, the author of Face to Face! I’m sharing the book cover first because, ooh!
A masquerade, a chance meeting, and a kidnapping: Little did Miss Penelope Ashurst realize that breaking the rules would result in the adventure—and love—of a lifetime.
UNSEEN
One night. That’s all Miss Penelope Ashurst wants away from the strict decorum of Regency society. Donning a mask and attending a forbidden masquerade, she meets the man of her dreams. Then, before she discovers his identity, she is kidnapped.
UNTASTED
From their first encounter, his goddess in a golden mask stirs a deep and different longing within Ranulph, the Earl of Monfort. When she disappears, he vows he will find her no matter the cost.
UNSTOPPABLE
Soon it’s a race against time, and the kidnappers are just the start. Penelope and Ranulph’s very lives are in jeopardy. Before the end, everything will be stripped away, and Penelope and Ranulph will be more than just face-to-face. But this is true love, and nothing will stop it.
OOH! I so gotta read this one!
The Interview
CA: Welcome to the blog, Alanna! First off – what can I get you? Coffee, soda, beer, wine, or a mixed cocktail?
AL: Nice to be here, Christine! I’ll have a coffee with cream, please.
CA: Coming right up. (passes coffee to Alanna) Let’s get cozy, shall we? So. What drew you to writing?
AL: I have always had stories in my head, and since it was getting rather crowded in there, I decided to write them down.
CA: Hm. Interesting. So, what genre do you write in, and why?
AL: I write historical romance. I love to research and learn about other time periods. It seemed only natural to write what I love.
CA: Very true. So how did you start this particular book – with a title first, a character first, or a situation first?
AL: Okay, this is quite a story. While at the 2013 California Dreamin’ conference, I learned that Boroughs Publishing Group was hosting the ‘What’s in a Name’ novella contest. I thought about entering, but did not have a novella completed (or even started), and I was leaving the country to visit family. A month later, I still did not have anything written down (but had had a wonderful time visiting my family) and the deadline was five weeks away.
One day, while listening to Face to Face by Siouxsie and the Banshees, inspiration struck. I sat down and just wrote. It was unlike any other project I had tackled previously. I finished the novella and a two paragraph synopsis with a couple of days to spare – talk about cutting it close!
CA: Wow! Sometimes, though, that’s the best way to get things done. Good for you. So, what do you do when you’re not writing? Do you have a Day Job?
AL: I love to spend time with my family, go for long walks, and read. Oh, and I homeschool my two kids.
CA: Some would argue that homeschooling is definitely a Day Job, though with perks! Good for you. Now, name three things your fans would be surprised to learn about you.
AL: I love to drive and did a lap on the Nurburgring in Germany.
I have a bright lime green vacuum and I am not afraid to use it (I find vacuuming relaxing).
We don’t have cable in my house.
CA: LOL on the vacuuming – wanna come relax at my house? Bring your vacuum? Nevermind – I’ve got two minions who do that for me. Oh, and I’m right there with you on the no-cable thing. So, next question. Where would you live, if you could live anywhere in the world?
AL: The Netherlands. I have family there and miss them so much!
CA: Oh, I LOVE the Netherlands! That’s it, we’ve gotta be sisters or something. Sigh. Name 3 simple joys in your life.
AL: Spending time with family, playing games with my kids, and going for walks.
CA: Ah. Lovely. Now, if you could have dinner with any person, living or dead or fictional, who would it be and where would you go to eat?
AL: Not that he would want to spend hours relaxing over a meal when there was much to be done, but I would enjoy having dinner with Michelangelo. I know a great restaurant in Rome called Hostaria Costanza.
CA: You never know – he might need a break! Great choice, hon. Another question: If you could give just one piece of advice to a writer just starting out, what would it be?
AL: Join a writers group like RWA.
CA: Is there anything else you’d like to talk about?
AL: Thank you for having me today, the coffee was great, but I’ve gotta dash – it’s time to get back to writing.
CA: Thank YOU for being here! Folks, following is the excerpt…
FACE TO FACE excerpt
Her body quivered when the damp air penetrated through her coat and costume. Crossing her arms across her body, she exhaled with frustration. “Where is she?”
No sooner had the words brushed past her lips then an apparition came rushing through the fog. “Ohhh…,” she was just about to scream when the figure draped in white emerged. It wasn’t until Penelope saw the tall staff that she recognized her friend. “Where have you been?” She hissed at Judy. “I was just about to give up.”
“I had to wait for the house to quiet.” Judy took Penelope’s arm and tugged her into the thickening haze. Once clear of the house, walking toward their destination, Judy explained, “I think my brother may suspect what we are about this evening. We have to make sure we stay clear of him. He is dressed like a pirate.”
“A pirate?”
Judy nodded her head. “Eye patch and all. He looks ridiculous.” Her high-pitched giggle caught the attention of a pair of young gentlemen on the opposite side of the street.
Penelope eyed Judy with alarm. “Shh. Do you want to be recognized?” Without further conversation, they scurried along toward their destination.
The thrill of adventure shot through Penelope at the realization of what they were about to do.
Alanna Lucas grew up in Southern California. From an early age, she took an interest in travel, incorporating those experiences into her writing. When she is not daydreaming of her next travel destination, Alanna can be found researching, spending time with family, or going for long walks. Alanna Lucas is a member of the Romance Writers of America, East Valley Authors, The Beau Monde, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers.
Find Alanna, and FACE TO FACE, here:
www.alannalucas.com
https://www.facebook.com/alannalucas27
https://twitter.com/alannalucas27
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4446010.Alanna_Lucas
http://www.amazon.com/Face-Alanna-Lucas-ebook/dp/B00MBOYOZ0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407272887&sr=8-2&keywords=alanna+lucas
http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com/authors/alanna-lucas
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/face-to-face-alanna-lucas/1120057329?ean=2940046079463
)O(
Thanks so much for stopping by! Every Wednesday I showcase an author. If you want to keep informed, click on the Subscribe button at the top right. See you soon!
by Christine | Observations
BLURB: Heather Cox is writing on a deadline, and eager to wrap up a brilliant piece with a final interview. But as her interviewee begins divulging the secrets behind her sexy one night stand with a mysterious female, Heather finds herself taken to a level of curiosity that has her body quaking.
With just hours left to finish her article, Heather must decide exactly how far she’s willing to go to get the facts she needs…
My Review: This is a short, quick, and ultimately satisfying tale of love, unexpected. Heather listens to this ordinary woman tell an extraordinary story, and finds herself moved by it. When the opportunity arises for Heather to delve further into the story for her article, she goes for it – and the reader is rooting for her, every step of the way. Bravo, Ms. Adams. Well done.
Find Lisa Adams at the following spots:
– Twitter: @LisaAdamsWriter
)O(
by Christine | Observations
As many other (much more famous) people have said, this is a wonderful time to be an author. There are so many options open to us. We can self publish, we can publish with a digital-first publisher (of which there are many), or we can aim for a big New York publishing house (of which there are few).
There is no right way to publish.
Each person’s journey is just that; THEIR journey. Nora Roberts’ publishing journey is vastly different than mine (sigh), which is vastly different than, let’s say, my friend Kendall Grey’s journey. The thing is, no one way is “better” than another way.
If you want that contract with New York City, go for it. GO FOR IT. If in your heart of hearts you don’t want to be your own publisher, for God’s sake, don’t be. Write the best damned book you possibly can, and find someone else who will love your work enough to publish it. Then write another book.
If that is your dream, don’t let anyone tell you you’re wrong, or that the contract you’re so proud of signing sucks. In fact, be very careful who you share your contract with; make sure they are knowledgable about author contracts, can help you make a decision, and more than anything, make sure YOU know what you want out of a contract.
Be realistic, too. If yours is a first contract with a publishing company, and you have no track record at all, you’re not going to get the moon when you ask for it. I’m not saying don’t ask; just don’t be surprised if they come back with a simple “no,” and know what you’ll do when that happens.
Another thing. Just because you might have signed a contract with a publishing house that someone you know is also signed with, DOES NOT MEAN you have to share your contract details with them. (You shouldn’t ask about their contract, either.) And definitely don’t talk about your contract in specific across a lunch table with a bunch of other people listening in. Your contract is YOUR contract, and nobody else’s business. You don’t owe it to ANYONE to share details.
Contrari-wise, if a good friend is considering a contract and asks you what to be careful about, feel free to share your views. In person, and in private (which can happen in a corner of a ballroom full of people, believe it or not).
I guess this is my ranty way of saying, know what you want out of your career, and go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re doing it wrong. Whether you self publish, go with a small publisher, or hold that dream of an agent and a six figure deal with a New York publisher, that’s your decision and your journey. You may change your mind down the line, and there’s nothing wrong with that, either.
Know what you want, and go for it.
Don’t explain, and don’t apologize, for following your heart. Big, squishy hugs to you as you continue on the journey.
)O(
I’ve got an Author Page on Facebook now…it’s not very pretty to look at, but check it out and give me a “like” if you would!
by Christine | Observations
In these days of global uncertainty, it’s nice to relax with a bottle of wine that doesn’t break your pocketbook. I’m here to sort out the memorable from the truly awful, and each bottle is under $10 unless noted otherwise.
Today I’m talking about the pink wines, my favorites, the Rose´s. Not to be confused with White Zinfandel *shudder*. It’s not that you won’t remain my friend if you drink White Zin. But I admit that it will shift the way I think about you. Let’s call it my character flaw and move on, shall we? (And for those who love White Zinfandel, here’s an article telling you why you’re right to love it and I’m all wrong, lol.)
Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve Rose´ Mendocino County, 2012 Alcohol 14.5% by Volume; about $8
On The Label: “This lovely Rose´ is crisp and off-dry with notes of strawberry jam, raspberries, and stone fruits. It is full-bodied and well-balanced with a long lingering finish.”
My Take: Very pretty color, and a nice flavor. Not a wine I would drink with a heavy meal, but perfect for noshing and sipping while discussing movies with friends on a balcony nineteen floors up, the night wind caressing the heat from your skin. It has a steel Chardonnay characteristic to my taste.
My Rating: ~ Drinkable ~ Good for pool parties, chips and dips, and hanging out with friends and talking. High alcohol content, though, so watch that you sip water between glasses of wine.
Green Fin 2013 California Grenache Rose´ Made with organic grapes. Alcohol 11.5%
I couldn’t find a photo of the Grenache Rose´, sigh. This one is from Cellartracker.com
by Volume; about $5
On The Label: “Made entirely with organically grown grapes, this Grenache Rose´was gently pressed and cold fermented to maintain a true Rose´character. Sweet cherries and perfumed raspberries swirl together and blend into the palate where a refreshing finish rounds out the organically grown wine. Serve slightly chilled. Enjoy!”
My Take: Yet another label that gets kind of gooey. If you’ve been reading this wine blog for any length of time, you know that the more descriptive the label, the more snarly I get. Which is the main reason I never read labels before buying wine. Anyway – tasty? Yes. Less of a Chardonnay taste, and more of a gentle sipping wine taste. No food necessary, especially at the lower alcohol content, but good with noshes too.
My Rating: ~ Drinkable ~ and at this price you can get several bottles for that party you’ve been meaning to have. Perfect, again, for sipping poolside, or late at night with good friends and meaningful conversation.
As usual, this is just my honest opinion which will depend upon my mood, the weather, and what cycle the moon is in. Your taste buds will differ.
~ Until the next time, cheers! ~
)O(
My Rating System: Undrinkable; Barely Drinkable; Drinkable; Very Drinkable; and the ever-popular “Stay Away! This is MY wine, you Slut!”
by Christine | Life, Observations, Writing
Hi there! Yeah, it’s me. Sorry I’ve been absent. There’s been SO much going on that it’s going to take me a while to get everything organized in my brain. But first off, my dad was given a Lifetime Achievement Award for everything he’s done for the San Diego Book Awards and Read-4-Fun programs (both groups live on donations, by the way). He started those two groups twenty years ago, and they’re still going strong. My husband and I, as well as my brother Greg and his lovely wife Tina, were all there to cheer him on.
Chet Cunningham, passing on his wisdom at the San Diego Book Awards night. Photo by Greg Cunningham.
Yeah, so everyone stood in front of the projector – but that didn’t lessen his savoire faire.
A couple more photos from that night…
Mark A. Clements presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Chet Cunningham, San Diego, June 21, 2014. Photo by Greg Cunningham.
Mark A. Clements is SO TALL (about 6’6″ or 6’7″…) and my dad so short, lol! Below, Daddy rocking his Cunningham tartan hat and beard.
Dad with the plaque, and rocking his beard! June 21, 2014 Photo by Greg Cunningham
The San Diego Book Awards ceremony was held about four weeks after he was flooded out of his house. (You can read the first installment and see the photos of that here). On June 21, 2014 I wandered through the house I’d been born in, and it seemed so small. Bare of everything. Stripped down to the cement foundation, the house looked awkward, old. It felt chilly despite the warmth of the day, as if everything I’ve grown up with and known is gone forever. But I had to face it. Seeing it that way, while my dad is alive, was sad, yes; but not devastating.
(The above photo is also by Greg Cunningham.)
As of this writing, Dad’s still not back in his house, but the carpet is in and all the painting is done. (We thought we’d be moving him back in last weekend but it didn’t happen.) As he keeps saying, he’s writing 2K a day because there’s nothing else to do at the residence hotel he’s been staying at (for almost two months now). He’s discombobulated and just wants to get back to his garden, and who can blame him?
(I’ll have another post later about the 4th of July in Tehachapi – wonderful day!)
As for me, I’ve got lots on my plate. Finishing up a Fairy Tale on spec, editing my ballet novel, working on book 2 of the StarTide Talent Agency series, plus coming out with new editions of my Demon series books (plus book 3, finally!). Busy, but that’s the way I like it.
OH! And I’m working on a 48-hour Film project at the beginning of August, writing with Mona Deutsch Miller and Cailin Maureen Harrison. It’s Mona’s project – I’m just along for the ride, lol!
Plus there are some short plays I’m working on. Busy, it seems, doesn’t begin to describe my life…please add in there the Day Job and family. Whee!
Next week, if you’re in San Antonio, come see me…
I’ll be at the Romance Writers of America Annual National Conference. There’s a HUGE book signing that’s open to the public on Wednesday, July 23rd, from 5:30pm to 8pm – I’m not signing, but I’ll be there helping the authors who are. I’d love to see you! So grab me and tell me how you know me, because I’m terrible with both names and faces, and I promise you a big squishy hug.
Here we are, in the middle of summer. Hope yours is going swimmingly! Hug your loved ones and keep positive. Life just keeps on getting better.
Write Hard!
)O(
by Christine | Life, Observations
It didn’t used to happen. Falling, I mean. Sure, I’d walk into walls. I’d trip over absolutely nothing. Ballet dancers do that (or I did, anyway). But falling? Only when I was aiming for a triple pirouette.
But Then I Hit 40. And then 50.
Things started to change. A benign tumor was growing in my right ear. Fibroids were developing in my uterus. My center of balance started to shift. Falls became more common.
I have some doozies in my recent past. Like, right over the top of the handlebars, for instance. Or falling backward from opening the window, and landing on my tailbone. Oh, and there was the one where I was walking to the kitchen and I stepped wrong, and broke my fibula. Yeah, that was a good one. (Fast forward ten months and I did it again, at the Day Job. Sigh.)
Since then, there were the two – or maybe three – times I’ve gone sprawling, face-first, in the grocery store. (I blame the shoes I wore.) Or on the street, heading to my car. (Dark, rain, puddles, headlights.)
By now, the tumor is long gone. Ditto the uterus. I should be back to “normal” and just be walking into walls and tripping over nothing. Right? For some reason, I’m not. And that totally sucks.
Falling never ceases to be nerve wracking. Like, is this the time I totally ruin my body? Or, is my tumor back? In the other ear this time, maybe? Do I have multiple sclerosis like my mother did? Is this the time I break a hip, an elbow, both wrists? The thoughts that go through my head after a fall are agonizing, and I know I can’t be alone there.
I do balance exercises. It’s one of the reasons I started giving myself a ballet barre again. I work at balance, I swear I do.
17 at Heart
In my heart of hearts, I’m seventeen. Or maybe twenty-nine. (Oh, shut up, lol.) I have the verve and agility and balance out the wazoo that I used to have. And that remembered verve gets me in trouble. I wish it didn’t, but it does. Every. Single. Time.
My last fall happened over the weekend. I’d been meaning to do something – not sure what – and when reminded, I jumped up from the chair with verve and alacrity, and immediately tripped over the footstool. Barking my shin, my toes, bumping the coffee table which tipped over several fragile marble chess pieces (breaking two), landing on one hip and one wrist before gracefully rolling onto my back, legs to my chest, breathing slowly and taking inventory.
Two days later, my wrist is still sore. My hip has recovered, as have my toes. My shin has a nice 4 inch, barely visible scrape/bruise which is tender to the touch but otherwise unremarkable. I have survived. I live, to fall another day.
I will redouble my balance work. I will do my best to make my pathways as clear as possible. I will do everything in my power to stop falling. But the one thing I refuse to do is pull away from my inner seventeen-year-old. I like her. I don’t want to give her up. I don’t want to have to live so cautiously that I am afraid to do anything. Because for me, that’s no way to live.
My spirit is seventeen. I’ll curb her when I need to, but I won’t squash her.
)O(
Why do older people fall…
Falling and Multiple Sclerosis…
Stop me falling…
Alanna Lucas grew up in Southern California. From an early age, she took an interest in travel, incorporating those experiences into her writing. When she is not daydreaming of her next travel destination, Alanna can be found researching, spending time with family, or going for long walks. Alanna Lucas is a member of the Romance Writers of America, East Valley Authors, The Beau Monde, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers.
