• Suspense

    Read the #Reverse Harem Romantic Thriller Jenna’s Dilemma by Rayne Matthews @raynematthews #RLFblog #RH

    Read the #Reverse Harem Romantic Thriller Jenna's Dilemma by Rayne Matthews @raynematthews #RLFblog #RHA spontaneous first date leads down a rabbit hole of mystery in Rayne Matthews new Reverse Harem Romantic thriller. An unexpected lifeline is thrown, but will they leave Jenna with more questions than answers?

    Rayne, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Jenna’s Dilemma.

    Jenna’s Dilemma by Rayne Matthews

    Genre Romantic Suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings):

    Jenna is a single mom with two great kids; she runs a cafe in Southern California and is the daughter of famous restaurateurs.

    All that’s missing is a boyfriend. Unless you count her wannabe rock star ex, Scott.

    Cade is a police officer, trying to escape his family’s shadow. He has a great life with his boyfriend Davis. But both men believe their lives will be even better with Jenna in it.

    As if juggling three guys and two kids isn’t enough, there’s something strange going on at Jenna’s cafe, and it could spell disaster for her and her loved ones.

    What sort of secrets is Cade hiding, and what does everything have to do with a motorcycle club in the low desert?

    Where to buy Jenna’s Dilemma

    Amazon http://bit.ly/JennasDilemma

    Rayne Matthews Social Media

    Rayne Matthews was born in the Desert of Southern California, and now resides in Los Angeles, with her husband, four children, two dogs, and a maniacal cat. After the “zoo” is closed each night, she enjoys reality TV, reading, and writing stories that make people question her sanity.
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100019922920627
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorraynematthews/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/authorraynematthews
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rayne-matthews
    Amazon Author Page http://bit.ly/raynematthewsamazon

     

  • Contemporary,  Modern Western

    Read Stetson’s Lady (The Diamond Ring Book 1) by Ronni Griffith @romanceronni #RLFblog #ContemporaryWestern

    Read Stetson’s Lady (The Diamond Ring Book 1) by Ronni Griffith @romanceronni #RLFblog #ContemporaryWesternRonni Griffith, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Stetson’s Lady.

    Stetson’s Lady (The Diamond Ring Book 1) by Ronni Griffith

    Genre Contemporary Western/Cowboy Romance

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    He’s a man who has it all–but the lady he truly loves.

    Mesa Stone left Maple Ridge to get away from her best friend’s overbearing, headstrong brother, Stetson McKane. She’s been head-over-heels in love with the sexy-as-sin cowboy since she was a little girl. Now she’s back–and drinking her sorrows away at the McKane’s annual BBQ–when she finds herself at the mercy of Stetson’s archrival.

    Stetson knew Mesa was back in town, but what he didn’t expect was to find her in the arms of his nemesis. He’s been rescuing his little sister’s best friend, Mesa, since she was a tomboy in pigtails. To his amazement, the little girl who drove him crazy is all grown up and Stetson finds he doesn’t have the will power to resist her any longer.

    Neither can deny the heat rising between them, but between his ex who won’t take no for an answer, and Blaine’s schemes of revenge, it seems Stetson and Mesa don’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of making it work.

    But it’s true what people say about things being bigger in Texas–whether it’s a stubborn male ego, a heart full of love…or the red-hot attraction between two people who belong together.

    QUICK

    Do you write more than one genre? If so, what are they?

    No. Right now I only write contemporary/western. Maybe as my writing career progresses I’ll venture out into more genres. Being from Texas, my three favorite types of men are, Oilmen, Cowboys, and Athletes. This being said, I’m a huge sports fan. I think it’d be kinda fun to venture out one day, and try my hand at something sports related. I guess time will only tell.

    How do you come up with ideas?…

    So, I have ideas pop in my head all the time. I’ve even woken up in the middle of the night with ideas. I can listen to music, watch a TV show, talk to people at the grocery store and walk away with an idea for my book. Some of them come from past and present situations I’ve been in. Some of my best ideas come to me when I’m in the shower (that’s always interesting to jump out of the shower to grab a pen and paper to jot the idea down before it’s gone forever). I’m a pretty observant person. Just watching and talking to people give me a lot of ideas. So the short answer, I get ideas everywhere I go and pretty much everyone I come in contact with. So, like I tell my family and friends, be careful what you say and do around me, because more than likely it’ll end up in a book of mine one of these days.

    What is the single most important part of writing for you?…

    Writing, for me, gives me an outlet. It sounds crazy, but writing is kinda like playing my music. For the time I’m writing, I get to shut off the outside world and bury myself into the lives of my characters. I know they have their issues and things they have to go through before they get to their happily ever after, but they get there. I was an avid reader before stepping out and writing my own book. One thing I always appreciated about what authors do, is they gave me a few hours to escape everyday life. I’d like to think I give readers the same thing.

    When did you write your first book?…

    I spent five years on Stetson’s Lady before it was finally released. My book has been critiqued by other well known authors and close friends. It’s been edited several times and rewritten more than twice. The day my editor told me I should delete 20K words because it was way too long, I almost cried. I wrote “The End” in Maui, on November 5, 2016 and it was put out into the world on November 3, 2020. It’s a long road but one I’ll cherish forever. It’s amazing to me how fast book two is going when the first one took a long time.

    FUN

    Leather or lace? Leather, for sure.

    Black or red? Black

    Satin sheets or smooth cotton? Smooth cotton

    Ocean or mountains? This is a hard one. It depends on which beach I’m at. If it’s tropical, for sure the ocean. If not, take me to the mountains.

    City life or country life? I’m a born and raised country girl.

    Party life or evening at home? Now-a-days, evening at home.

    Dogs or cats? Dogs all the way.

    Where to buy Stetson’s Lady (The Diamond Ring Book 1)

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Stetsons-Lady-Diamond-Ring-Book-ebook/dp/B08JNVCX39 *This title is available in Kindle Unlimited

    Ronni Griffith’s Social Media

    Ronni Griffith is a lifelong Native of Texas, an oilfield man’s wife of 26 years, mother to 3 amazing kids, and a “Honey” to 3 wonderful grands. She started her writing journey when her husband and niece convinced her to sit down and write the characters story that had taken up residence in her head. It’s been a learning experience from the beginning, but one she’ll cherish forever. When Ronni isn’t writing, you can find her riding on the back of her man’s Harley, watching football with her family, hanging out with her feathered friends in their coop and eating wings at her favorite wing bar.
    Website https://www.ronnigriffith.com/
    Blog http://ronnigriffith.blogspot.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/romanceronni
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ronnigriffithauthor/
    Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/rhondarg9
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ronnigriffithauthor/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20760865.Ronni_Griffith
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ronni-griffith
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Ronni-Griffith/e/B08KCZFLMP
    Get to know Ronni Griffith better by signing up for an email newsletter on her website: https://www.ronnigriffith.com

     

  • Stressing the Hero,  Suspense

    Stressing Tomás Escobedo from No More Secrets by Fiona McGier #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    Stressing Tomás Escobedo from No More Secrets by Fiona McGier #RLFblog #RomanticSuspensePosing as a tutor in a rich household in Colombia is the cover for agent Tomás Escobedo to search for evidence to convict the dangerous drug lord who lives next door, in No More Secrets, a romantic suspense novel by Fiona McGier. But when the lead actress in the indie crew filming a movie there tells him she doesn’t believe that he’s a tutor–that he’s just acting like one–he fears his cover will be blown by the beautiful blonde and endanger both of them.

    Let’s meet Tomás Escobedo from No More Secrets, a romantic suspense, by Fiona McGier. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your latest book.

    No More Secrets by Fiona McGier

    Genre Romantic suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): Steamy R

    Kelly, Raul, and Jared are making another movie together–this time in Colombia. Tomás is there, posing as a tutor, while trying to find the evidence to bust the drug lord who owns the mansion next door to the one they’re filming in. Kelly can’t figure out why his vibe doesn’t say tutor to her–until she figures out his secret. And he has no idea why she’s so quick to figure him out, until he learns about her ex-CIA mom, and ex-KGB step-father. They can’t fight their growing attraction to each other. Will it get them both killed? Or can they find their way to a happily-ever-after, once they have no more secrets from each other?

    Stressing Tomás Escobedo

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 35

    Gender: Male

    Birthplace: A small town near Mexico City.

    Profession: Secret Agent

    Ethnicity: Mexican.

    What does your hero look like?

    He’s tall, over 6′, with dark brown hair that usually has a blond streak in the front. He has a gold hoop earring in his left ear. His eyes are very dark brown. He looks like a man who works out a lot, because he does. His body is a weapon that’s kept him alive for years.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Kelly Ann Sheridan, daughter of the heroine in Her Last Resort, book 3 in the Minnesota Romances series. She’s a blonde actress who first met her co-star, Raul Roderick, and their director, Jared Sorrenson, in the first book, For the Love of His Life. She’s vivacious and much more intelligent than most people think she is– she looks like Malibu Barbie, with a permanent tan, but has alert blue eyes.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    There will be food and drink, and dancing–lots of dancing. Tomás likes nothing more than to get a female out on the dance-floor to show off his moves. Unfortunately, Kelly has no sense of rhythm. Even though this can throw off his style, he doesn’t care. He’ll be dancing with her until he has to drag her away so they can be alone.

    How does the hero feel about being at this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    He’s spent many years perfecting his control over his body language, so you never know if his casual relaxed attitude is real, or just what he wants you to see. But if his woman is there and there’s dancing, he’ll be holding her closely, and he might let his guard slip and stop paying active attention to others around him. But he still will be alert to any signals that there is something going down.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He always studies a place out of habit, checking for exits and possible dangers. He mingles when he’s really relaxed. Otherwise, he acts casual while observing everyone and everything closely.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He enjoys Mexican beer, when it matches the food. He also enjoys shots of expensive tequila. But he never drinks to excess, since he’s spent too many years being cautious.

    How much drink is his usual?

    Since he’s a tall, muscular man, he can drink more than others and still maintain his control over himself.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He doesn’t hide–he faces danger head-on. He might drag Kelly off into a secret place so he can grope her, without an audience.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    When he’s being himself, relaxed, he will stay with the people he trusts. When he’s in public with Kelly, he’s always at her side, to protect her from her public–some of whom get grabby sometimes. One look from him is usually enough to stop that.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He will end it. And the person who started the fight won’t be happy about how he does it.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He does the tossing. He’s always in control of himself, so he never gets tossed out.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He doesn’t stay long in public with Kelly, because he always wants to get her alone.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He will show them his IDs and explain who he works for. If he’s undercover, he’ll defend himself, using as little force as possible.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    He runs to check on it. He runs toward danger–it’s his job.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    He assesses the threat and devises a plan to end the violence as quickly as possible, while attracting a minimum of attention.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    He acts on his plan and stops the assault.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    This has never happened to Tomás. His training has always saved him.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    He’s polite but coldly terse. And he’ll excuse himself as soon as possible.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He wouldn’t hesitate to take over and ensure that the outcome is favorable for himself, as well as any innocents involved. He’ll deal with hurt feelings once the danger has passed.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    That he will get out of this, as he has so many other situations that seemed hopeless. He’s got a good track record of getting out of tight spots, so he’s confident.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    No one thing special, but he’s got a lot of respect for his handler, Malcolm, who has never steered him wrong.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    He’s always been able to get himself out of tight spots, so no matter how tough things get, he’s supremely confident that he can escape–especially now that he has Kelly to return to.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He was introduced to readers as a young agent in Undercover Lovers. He thought he was in love with the heroine, Ameena. But he was too young to understand that he was just jealous because she chose his older partner over him. Since that hadn’t ever happpened to him before, he took it badly. He used to be open to assignations with any combination of females and males–he enjoyed sensuality in many forms. But now that he’s older, he’s ready to settle down. He just didn’t realize it until he met Kelly.

    Where to buy No More Secrets

    Universal Buy Link https://books2read.com/u/4NL6MN
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1027522?ref=draft2digital
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-more-secrets-fiona-mcgier/1137190498?ean=2940164115432&st=AFF&2sid=Draft2Digital_7968444_NA&sourceId=AFFDraft2Digital
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1519082383
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/no-more-secrets-25

    Fiona McGier Social Media

    I sub in high schools during the school year. Otherwise I’m writing and blogging about my books–and reading and writing reviews. Not only do I write erotic romance, I love to read it too. I often read while camping with my long-time HEA. Our four adult kids sometimes join us. I also enjoy sewing–mostly masks these days– crocheting afghans to keep my loved ones warm, and baking–cookies, muffins, and especially pies. I’m known for my never-fail pie crust, so I put the recipe on my website under the pies tab, along with some of my family’s favorites, that I featured in one of my books that had a heroine who baked lots of pies.
    Website www.fionamcgier.com
    Blog www.fionamcgier.com
    Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/fionamcgier
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fiona.mcgier/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2987252.Fiona_McGier
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/fiona-mcgier-27d35716-8cc6-4638-8470-03331056b1d7
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Fiona-McGier/e/B003J8QJGE
    All author: https://allauthor.com/profile/fionamcgier/
    Authors Den–https://www.authorsden.com/visit/author.asp?authorid=122551
    Get to know Fiona McGier better by signing up for email updates on her blog.

     

  • Coming Soon,  Contemporary

    Coming Soon: Tiaras and Teacups by Melissa McClone @melissamcclone #RLFblog #WomensFiction

    Coming Soon: Tiaras and Teacups by Melissa McClone @melissamcclone #RLFblog #WomensFictionSometimes the sweetest beginnings come from bitter endings in Melissa McClone’s upcoming romantic women’s fiction novel, Tiaras and Teacups. Will five friends will be able to support each other and save the Berry Lake Cupcake Shop?

    Melissa, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Tiaras and Teacups.

    Tiaras and Teacups by Melissa McClone

    Genre Romantic Women’s Fiction

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): G

    Sometimes the sweetest beginnings come from bitter endings…

    Juliet Monroe’s comfortable world has been turned upside down. She’s struggling to leave her trophy wife identity behind and make ends meet as a full-time event planner. When her handsome new neighbor needs to throw the perfect birthday party for his niece, Juliet offers her services. If she pulls this off, maybe she can get her life back on track. But to do so, she’ll need the help of the Cupcake Posse. Too bad her friends are grappling with problems of their own:

    Missy’s recovering from injuries; Nell’s trying to thwart her mother’s matchmaking efforts; Selena’s husband wants her to work less when she needs to do more; and Bria’s facing obstacles she never anticipated trying to save her late aunt’s bakery.

    Join the Cupcake Posse as they work together to navigate the difficulties of life, loss, and love. They continue to rely on each other, never losing sight of the importance of friendship and family, but will that be enough to save the Berry Lake Cupcake Shop?

    Where to buy Tiaras and Teacups

    Publisher Cardinal Press, LLC
    Coming Soon! To know when this book is available,follow the author on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-McClone/e/B001HOIG4K or sign up for the author’s newsletter https://melissamcclone.com/subscribe/
    List preorder links below, if any.

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08MZ55JTL
    Apple Books https://books.apple.com/us/book/tiaras-teacups/id1539343608
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tiaras-teacups-melissa-mcclone/1138113618?ean=2940164610616
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/tiaras-teacups

    Melissa McClone Social Media

    USA TODAY bestselling author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Cardinal Press, Tule Publishing Group, and Harlequin Books. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends her time in the rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping with her dog and cats, and decorating her Happy Planner.
    Website http://www.melissamcclone.com
    Twitter https://twitter.com/melissamcclone
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/melissamcclonebooks
    Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/melissamcclone
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/melmcclone/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/292027.Melissa_McClone
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-mcclone
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-McClone/e/B001HOIG4K/
    Get to know Melissa McClone better by signing up for an email newsletter https://melissamcclone.com/subscribe/

     

  • Bucket List,  Suspense

    Bucket list of Stella Taylor from Her Last Resort by Fiona McGier #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    Stella hoped to be able to finally relax after retiring from 30 years with the CIA in Her Last Resort, a romantic suspense novel by Fiona McGier. But people are being sent to try to kill her. When her daughter wants to spend time with her at a resort in northern Minnesota, she hopes that will be remote enough to be safe. If not, she will have to show them what this older woman is capable of doing!

    Let's meet Stella Taylor from Her Last Resort. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I'm Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Her Last Resort.

    Her Last Resort by Fiona McGier

    Genre Romantic suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R rated

    She's ex-CIA, a hunted woman used to relying only on herself. He's ex-KGB--with connections to those who can help her. Will she let him? Can glasnost (openness) lead to rapprochement (a bringing together), and maybe even to love as west meets east? And what about her daughter? Can she salvage any kind of relationship with the adult her child has become?

    Her Last Resort has a heroine and a hero both in their 50s. She's retired after 30 years as an agent for the CIA--he's ex-KGB. Her daughter from a failed marriage wants to have a relationship with her, so she agrees to spend a week in a cabin at a resort owned by the ex-KGB agent. It's the tale of two love stories, because love can happen at any age, even 25 years after you first saw each other. But also the love between a mother and child is a powerful love story too. The only problem is that someone is trying to kill the heroine, and she's never asked for help from anyone before. Can she accept the help of her ex-"enemy"? Or will one of her attackers be successful?

    When someone dies, we say they "kicked the bucket." Therefore, a list of things that a person wants to accomplish, places to go, situations to experience, and so on have become known as a "Bucket List."

    Age: 52

    Gender: Female

    Birthplace: A small town in Virginia

    Profession: Retired after 30 years with the CIA.

    Ethnicity: Italian-American

    Please provide a physical description of yourself.

    I'm a medium height woman, about 5'7", with light brown hair that is starting to gray. I have an olive complexion, due to my Italian heritage, and light brown eyes. I like to wear sundresses in the summer, to show off my toned arms. Being an agent for so long means that my body has been my most reliable weapon for a long time, so I've had to keep it in the best of shape.

    Please tell us a little about yourself.

    When I was a young agent, I was sure that I'd made the best possible choice for my future. I loved doing things all over the world, that helped further the cause of freedom and democracy. But I met a man, fell in love, and ended up pregnant. I had to confess to him what my job was, and he wanted me to quit. But the agency doesn't let you go that easily--we're too expensive to train. So I switched to a desk job for as long as I could, which allowed for us to get married and have our daughter, then a son . Then I had to choose between my career, and my marriage, since my husband gave me an ultimatum. That led to our divorce. I've been estranged from my family for a very long time, and now that I'm retired, I'm hoping I can get to know my adult kids.

    Who is the significant other in your life?

    I never expected to meet another man who would be so right for me. But Ivan, the owner of the resort I stayed at with my daughter, is ex-KGB. What could be more perfect, for both of us, than falling for someone else who used to be in the business?

    He's taller than me, with clear blue eyes. He's a couple of years younger, but by our age, who cares? And he adores me. I haven't shared myself with anyone for so long. I can't help but return his love.

    If you haven't made a bucket list before, perhaps now would be a good time. Who knows? It might inspire another book. While you're at it, how about telling us about some of your other favorite things? Here are the questions.

    What is your birth order?

    I have a younger sister, but I haven't seen her for years. We're not allowed to stay in touch with family when we're live agents.

    Tell us about your favorite toy as a child.

    This is so embarrassing! I loved to play with Barbie dolls, and they were always jet-setters, traveling all over the world, doing exciting things.

    Describe your favorite food and how it's prepared.

    Are you kidding? I'm Italian. Pasta all the way! I especially love manicotti and stuffed shells, but pasta with mushrooms, peas, prociutto and a cream sauce is very good. And wine--a good meal is made great by the wine served with it.

    Tell us about your best friend.

    <smiles shyly> That would be my man, Ivan. But also my daughter Kelly, who has become an Oscar winning actress. I missed both of my kids for so many years. I feel so lucky that she wanted to reconnect with me--which led to my meeting Ivan. <sigh>

    What are two places you would like to visit before you die, and why?

    I've traveled to many countries all over the planet. I'd like to return to the village in Italy that my Nonna was from--she taught me Italian when I was a child, which helped me to learn many more languages over the years. And if Ivan ever wants to return to his native Russia, I'd be glad to go with him, since I'm fluent in Russian as well.

    Where is a place you would never like to return, and why?

    I hope to never have to return to Washington DC ever again. I spent too many years as a puppet whose strings were pulled from there. Now I'm free, I'm staying away.

    Who is someone you would like to meet, and why?

    I really hope that my son, David, will someday want to get to know me, as his sister Kelly has. He was only a toddler the last time I saw him.

    Who is someone you would like to avoid, and why?

    My old handler at the agency. I don't respect him anymore.

    If you could time travel to any date, what would it be, and what would you do there?

    I'd love to bring Ivan with me to meet my parents when they were young and healthy. I miss them so much! They were the ones to teach me that I could do anything I wanted to do, despite being female. I owe them so much.

    Meet Fiona McGier

    Why did you choose this character for the interview today?

    I chose Stella because there are very few romances written with a heroine that is in her 50's. Just because people get older, doesn't mean that they stop wanting romance in their lives. It's not just a thing for twenty-somethings. Heroes are often older, but heroines are usually much younger. Stella is a kick-ass heroine! Even though Ivan is two years younger than her, he's one lucky man!

    When writing the book, what did you discover about this character that surprised you?

    I didn't realize at the start that Stella has another name--or that she's got very personal religious beliefs. Both of those things revealed themselves to me, literally, as I wrote the words.

    Are any sequels planned for this book?

    This is the third book in my Minnesota Romances series. After I'd written the fourth book, No More Secrets. I thought I was done. But there's another story bubbling around in my head, so maybe there will be a fifth book?

    What would your readers be surprised to learn about you?

    I used to agonize over being an at-home mom who had 4 kids in 5 years. I wondered if it was possible to be a feminist if you were an at-home, nurturing mom. The answer is yes, since all four of my kids are feminists--though the boys might not agree with the term. I based Stella's relationship with Kelly on my relationship with my daughter, who I also call Golden Girl.

    Why should readers who haven't picked up one of your books before give this one a try?

    My books always have steamy, open-door sex scenes. Some readers might not like to read about an older couple who still like to have fun in the bedroom. But I hope that other readers might be pleasantly surprised to read about a new love happening to an older couple.

    Is there anything you'd like to say to your readers?

    If you ever get a chance to get up to Grand Marais, Minnesota, don't be surprised if a lot of the town seems familiar. I've enjoyed camping up there along the Gunflint Trail, for many years. I love it so much up there that I had to set a series there, so I could imagine myself there when I'm not. The setting is almost another character in these books.

    Where to buy Her Last Resort

    Publisher https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1014550?ref=draft2digital
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/her-last-resort-fiona-mcgier/1121258306
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/her-last-resort/id1507852116?at=1010l9S2&uo=4&mt=11
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/her-last-resort
    Universal Buy Link https://books2read.com/u/banQ2y

     

    Fiona McGier Social Media

    I sub in high schools during the school year. Otherwise I'm writing and blogging about my books--and reading and writing reviews. Not only do I write erotic romance, I love to read it too. I often read while camping with my long-time HEA. Our four adult kids sometimes join us. I also enjoy sewing--mostly masks these days-- crocheting afghans to keep my loved ones warm, and baking--cookies, muffins, and especially pies. I'm known for my never-fail pie crust, so I put the recipe on my website under the pies tab, along with some of my family's favorites, that I featured in one of my books that had a heroine who baked lots of pies.
    Website www.fionamcgier.com
    Blog www.fionamcgier.com
    Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/fionamcgier
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fiona.mcgier/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2987252.Fiona_McGier
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/fiona-mcgier-27d35716-8cc6-4638-8470-03331056b1d7
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Fiona-McGier/e/B003J8QJGE
    All author: https://allauthor.com/profile/fionamcgier/
    Authors Den--https://www.authorsden.com/visit/author.asp?authorid=122551
    Get to know Fiona McGier better by signing up for email updates on her blog.

     

  • Stressing the Hero,  Suspense

    Stressing Owen Strong from Lonely Eyes @RomanceBJones #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    Discover fast fun facts about Bernadette Jones author of Lonely Eyes @RomanceBJones #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    A runaway on a storm buffeted highway brings danger to Spencer, Co., in the new romantic suspense, Lonely Eyes. Can Owen protect the young woman, or will her presence cause the death of one of his family?

    Let’s meet Owen Strong from Lonely Eyes, a Romantic Suspense, by Bernadette Jones. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your latest book.

    Lonely Eyes by Bernadette Jones

    Genre Romantic Suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    There is an art to pursuit.

    Keira is running out of time. The handsome stranger with a dragon tattoo says he can keep her safe, but he doesn’t know the demons on her trail… Will her mysterious past lead her to escape, or drag her back to living hell?

    Owen Strong has suffered tragedy, but he’s made a new family in Spencer, Colorado–one he will protect at all costs. When he finds determined Keira Hoa, she rouses more than just trouble. Looking into her lonely eyes, he sees that everyone’s in danger.

    But she’s come to the right place. He’s the monster hunter.

    Stressing Owen Strong

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 33

    Gender: very male

    Birthplace: Chicago

    Profession: Mechanic

    What does your hero look like?

    Huge. He’s always been large, at 6’2″ with broad shoulders and chest. He works out daily, because his past careers as a bounty hunter and MMA fighter made staying in shape essential.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Keira Hoa Thi. He found her on a storm buffeted highway. She’s in trouble and he vows to protect her.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    He’s at a house warming party after he and his friends have helped paint and move his buddy and wife into their new home. There will be beer, pizza and a lot of joking around.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    There will be moments where he relaxes against a wall and soaks in the camaraderie and comfort of knowing he has a chosen family.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He will do a little of both. But his nature is to watch and guard those that are important to him so he will always be a touch alloof and on guard.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He’ll have a beer or maybe a shot of whiskey, but he never allows himself too much. He really likes water and juice.

    How much drink is his usual?

    One or two.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He choses his friends wisely. Most of them are hard-working and ex-military. They watch out for each other. If someone is having a problem, he’s in their space helping them out or setting them straight.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    He has his circle of friends and they all watch out for each other. They mingle equally.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He will break it up and then set both parties down and get it straightened out.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    Definitely do the tossing.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    Always knows when to leave.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    Immediately starts strategizing his best response and plays to whatever will settle the situation quickly. He is a chameleon playing whatever part he needs to.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    Immediately moves to find the source and the reason. He is quick and quiet.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    Assess the situation and the location. Could there be more assailants on the way? What are his best defensive strategies for the location?

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Separates the combatants, then finds out who started it and why.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Never give up. Think with your head, use your brawn to your advantage.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    Always aware of what is going on around him. He would see the person first and if he doesn’t want to be seen, he will disappear.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He will always attempt to instruct and educate, but if there is danger involved he will take over.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    He trains in several martial arts and was a street fighter. Pain is part of life. He blanks it out.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    He’s relied on himself for a very long time. He has a ‘just do it’ attitude.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Think it through and never give up.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He’s lost a lot of people he loved. Once he takes you on as his chosen family he will protect you with his life.

    Where to buy Lonely Eyes

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JJL2BSR/
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lonely-eyes-bernadette-jones/1137714832
    iBooks. https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1532665553
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/lonely-eyes
    Books2read https://books2read.com/u/mdlyrZ

    Bernadette Jones Social Media

    Bernadette Jones has been making up stories since she learned to read on her daddy’s lap. She has imagined casts of characters everywhere she’s called home: Texas, Oregon, South Dakota, Nebraska, Illinois, Massachusetts and now New York.
    Books and music filled her life as she, her dad and two brothers traveled the country. She would sit in the back seat of the car (her older brother always got to ride shotgun), listening to the current music on the radio, looking out the window and spinning a story based on a phrase or word she’d heard in the lyrics. As you can imagine, traveling the country the music changed from state to state, as did the stories. To this day she loves all genres of music and books.
    After a career in corporate writing, she’s finally decided to settled down and put pen to paper doing what she loves. Living the dream in her NYC apartment with her canine companion, she’s is bringing her stories and characters to life. This is Bernadette’s third book in the Aspen Gold Series.
    Website https://www.bernadettejones.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/RomanceBJones
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BernadetteJonesAuthor/
    Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/BernadetteJonesAuthor/boards/
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bernadettejonesauthor/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19728724.Bernadette_Jones
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/bernadette-jones
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Bernadette-Jones/e/B07ZY84C6K
    Books2Read https://books2read.com/ap/RaKd7J/Bernadette-Jones
    Get to know Bernadette Jones better by signing up for an email newsletter http://www.bernadettejones.com/newsletters